Craftsman Chain Saw Manual

The Craftsman Chain Saw is a powerful and reliable tool designed for cutting wood, pruning trees, and general yard maintenance. It features a high-performance gasoline engine, automatic oiling system, safety chain brake, anti-vibration handles, and easy-start technology. Below are key sections for safety, features, assembly, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

Features at a Glance

Key components: High-torque engine, 16-inch cutting bar, automatic chain oiler, safety chain brake, anti-vibration system, tool-less chain tensioner, and easy-pull starter.

Safety Information

Read all instructions before use. Wear proper safety gear.

1. Always wear safety glasses, hearing protection, gloves, and steel-toed boots.
2. Keep bystanders at least 15 feet away during operation.
3. Never operate the chain saw above shoulder height or on a ladder.
4. Always engage the chain brake when not actively cutting.
5. Use proper fueling procedures: mix gasoline with 2-cycle oil (50:1 ratio).

WARNING! Kickback can occur without warning. Always hold saw firmly with both hands. Keep chain sharp and properly tensioned.

Assembly Instructions

Unpack and inspect all parts. Assembly requires basic tools.

1. Attach the guide bar: Loosen bar nuts, position bar over studs, align chain with sprocket.
2. Install chain: Place chain over bar, ensuring cutting teeth face forward on top.
3. Tension chain: Use tool-less adjuster to set proper tension (chain should snap back when pulled).
4. Fill oil reservoir: Use bar and chain oil only. Check for leaks.
5. Mix fuel: Use fresh unleaded gasoline (89 octane minimum) with 2-cycle oil (50:1 ratio).

CAUTION! Do not operate without proper chain tension and lubrication.

Specifications

• Engine: 42cc 2-cycle, air-cooled.
• Power Output: 2.2 HP at 9,500 RPM.
• Fuel: Gasoline/oil mix (50:1 ratio).
• Bar Length: 16 inches.
• Chain Pitch: 3/8 inch low-profile.
• Chain Gauge: 0.050 inch.
• Sound Level: 105 dB(A) at operator's ear.
• Vibration Level: Front handle: 4.5 m/s², Rear handle: 5.2 m/s².
• Warranty: 2-year limited.

Controls and Components

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

Components: Front handle with hand guard, rear handle, fuel tank cap, oil tank cap, spark plug cover, muffler, guide bar, chain catcher, and anti-vibration mounts.

Operation: Pull choke for cold starts, press primer bulb 5 times, set stop switch to "I" (on), pull starter cord. For warm starts, leave choke open. Always engage chain brake when carrying or not cutting.

Starting the Chain Saw

Follow these steps for safe starting.

1. Place saw on flat, clear ground. Engage chain brake.
2. Set stop switch to "I" (on). Pull choke out fully for cold engine.
3. Press primer bulb 5 times until fuel is visible.
4. Place toe in rear handle, hold front handle firmly with left hand.
5. Pull starter cord briskly until engine fires (usually 3-5 pulls).
6. Push choke in halfway, pull starter again until engine starts.
7. Allow to warm up for 30 seconds before disengaging chain brake.

Tip: If engine floods, move stop switch to "OFF", wait 5 minutes, then restart with choke open.

Operating Procedures

Proper cutting techniques ensure safety and efficiency.

1. Felling trees: Plan escape path, make notch cut 1/3 into tree, then back cut.
2. Limbing: Cut branches from bottom to top, use bar tip carefully.
3. Bucking: Support logs properly, cut from top down for tension wood.
4. Pruning: Cut small branches with one smooth motion.
5. Always cut at full throttle, let chain do the work—don't force it.
6. Check oil level frequently; adjust oiler for dusty/dry conditions.

WARNING! Beware of kickback zone (upper quarter of bar tip). Never cut with this area.

Maintenance Schedule

Regular maintenance ensures optimal performance and longevity.

Chain Sharpening & Tensioning

Keep chain sharp for safe, efficient cutting.

1. Sharpen: Use round file (5/32 inch) at 30° angle. File each cutter equally.
2. Depth gauges: File to 0.025 inch below cutter edge using depth gauge tool.
3. Tension: Chain should be snug against bar but pull freely by hand.
4. Adjust: Loosen bar nuts, turn tension screw clockwise, tighten bar nuts.
5. Check: Chain should snap back when pulled from bar center.

CAUTION! Wear gloves when handling chain. Always stop engine and disconnect spark plug before maintenance.

Storage Guidelines

Proper storage prevents fuel system issues.

1. Drain fuel tank or add fuel stabilizer for storage over 30 days.
2. Run engine until it stops to clear carburetor of fuel.
3. Remove chain, clean and oil it, store separately.
4. Clean entire saw, especially air intake and cooling fins.
5. Store in dry place, covered, away from children.

Tip: For winter storage, use fuel stabilizer and run engine for 5 minutes before storing.

Troubleshooting

Service: For repairs, contact authorized Craftsman service center at 1-888-331-4569 or visit www.craftsman.com.