Craftsman 20 Inch Chainsaw Manual

The Craftsman 20 Inch Chainsaw is a powerful gas-powered tool designed for demanding cutting tasks. It features a 20-inch Oregon bar and chain, a high-performance 42cc 2-cycle engine, automatic oiling system, anti-vibration handle, tool-free chain tensioning, and a quick-start system. Below are key sections for safety, features, assembly, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

Features at a Glance

Key components: 42cc 2-cycle engine, 20-inch Oregon bar and chain, automatic chain oiler, anti-vibration system, tool-free chain tensioner, quick-start ignition, safety throttle lock, chain brake, and rear handle wrap.

Assembly & Setup

Unpack and inspect all contents. Assemble on a clean, flat surface.

1. Attach the guide bar and chain: Place bar on mounting studs, fit chain around sprocket and bar, adjust tension.
2. Fill bar and chain oil: Use recommended bar oil in reservoir.
3. Prepare fuel mix: Use fresh unleaded gasoline (89 octane minimum) with 2-cycle oil at 50:1 ratio.
4. Check all fasteners: Ensure all nuts and bolts are tight.

WARNING! Always wear cut-resistant gloves during assembly. Keep hands away from sharp chain.

Safety Instructions

Read all instructions before operation. Always wear proper PPE.

1. Personal Protective Equipment: Safety glasses, hearing protection, gloves, steel-toe boots, chainsaw chaps.
2. Work Area Safety: Clear area of obstacles, ensure secure footing, maintain safe distance from others.
3. Kickback Prevention: Hold saw firmly with both hands, avoid tip contact, use reduced-kickback chain.
4. Fuel Safety: Mix fuel outdoors, store in approved container, no smoking near fuel.

CAUTION! Never operate chainsaw above shoulder height or with one hand.

Specifications

• Engine Displacement: 42cc 2-cycle
• Bar Length: 20 inches
• Chain Pitch: 0.325 inches
• Chain Gauge: 0.050 inches
• Fuel Capacity: 14.2 fl oz (420 ml)
• Oil Capacity: 8.5 fl oz (250 ml)
• Weight: 10.8 lbs (4.9 kg) without fuel
• Sound Power Level: 112 dB(A)
• Vibration Level: Front handle: 4.5 m/s², Rear handle: 5.2 m/s²

Controls and Components

Main controls: Throttle trigger, throttle lockout, choke control, stop switch, primer bulb, chain brake lever.

Components: Front handle, rear handle, guide bar, chain, sprocket cover, muffler, air filter cover, fuel cap, oil cap.

Operation: Pull choke for cold start, push choke off for warm start. Engage throttle lockout before pulling trigger. Activate chain brake by pushing lever forward. Use stop switch to shut off engine.

Fuel & Oil Mixing

Use fresh unleaded gasoline (89 octane or higher) with EPA-approved 2-cycle engine oil.

1. Mix ratio: 50:1 (2.6 fl oz oil per 1 gallon gasoline).
2. Mix in approved container: Add gasoline first, then oil, shake thoroughly.
3. Bar and chain oil: Use quality bar oil for proper lubrication.
4. Storage: Use fuel within 30 days; add fuel stabilizer for longer storage.

Tip: Never use automotive motor oil or old gasoline. Always mix fuel outdoors.

Operation Guide

Starting procedure and cutting techniques.

1. Starting: Place on flat surface, engage chain brake, set choke, press primer 5 times, pull starter cord.
2. Warm-up: Allow 30-60 seconds at idle before cutting.
3. Basic Cutting: Use full throttle when cutting, let chain do the work.
4. Felling Trees: Plan escape path, make notch cut, then back cut.
5. Limbing: Work from trunk outward, keep saw stable.
6. Bucking: Support logs properly, cut from top down.
7. Shutdown: Allow to idle 30 seconds, press stop switch.

WARNING! Always be aware of kickback zone (upper quadrant of bar tip).

Maintenance Schedule

Regular maintenance ensures optimal performance and safety.

CAUTION! Disconnect spark plug wire before performing maintenance.

Chain Sharpening & Replacement

Keep chain sharp for efficient cutting and safety.

1. Sharpening: Use round file matching chain pitch (5/32" for 0.325 pitch).
2. Filing angle: Maintain 30° angle on cutters.
3. Depth gauges: File down to maintain proper height (0.025" below cutter).
4. Replacement: Replace chain when cutters are worn to ¼" or less.
5. Bar maintenance: Flip bar regularly, clean bar groove.

Tip: Sharpen chain after every 2-3 hours of cutting time.

Storage

Proper storage prevents damage and ensures easy startup.

1. Short-term (under 30 days): Run engine dry of fuel, clean saw, store in dry place.
2. Long-term: Drain all fuel, run engine until it stops, remove spark plug and add 1 tsp oil to cylinder.
3. Chain: Remove, clean, and soak in oil before storage.
4. Location: Store in dry, secure area away from children.

CAUTION! Never store chainsaw with fuel in tank for extended periods.

Troubleshooting

Service: For technical support, contact Craftsman at 1-888-331-4569 or visit www.craftsman.com