craftsman electric chainsaw manual

The Craftsman Electric Chainsaw is a powerful, corded electric chainsaw designed for residential use, featuring a high-efficiency motor, automatic oiling system, tool-free chain tensioning, low-kickback bar and chain, and safety features including a chain brake and hand guard. Below are key sections for safety, features, assembly, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

1. Features at a Glance 2. Safety Information 3. Assembly & Setup 4. Specifications 5. Controls and Components 6. Operation 7. Chain Maintenance 8. Cleaning & Storage 9. Troubleshooting 10. Warranty Information

Features at a Glance

Key components: High-torque electric motor, 16-inch guide bar, automatic oiling system, front hand guard, chain brake, tool-free chain tensioner, and wrap-around handle.

FeatureDescription
MotorHigh-efficiency 15 Amp electric motor
Guide Bar Length16 inches
ChainLow-kickback, .050 gauge, 3/8-inch pitch
Oiling SystemAutomatic, adjustable flow
Chain TensioningTool-free side adjustment
Safety FeaturesChain brake, front hand guard, safety trigger
WeightApproximately 10.5 lbs (without cord)
Power Cord12-foot, 3-prong grounded cord

Safety Information

Read all instructions before use. Always wear safety gear.

  1. Personal Protective Equipment: Wear safety glasses, hearing protection, gloves, non-slip boots, and close-fitting clothing.
  2. Work Area Safety: Keep bystanders and pets at least 15 feet away. Ensure stable footing.
  3. Electrical Safety: Use grounded outlet only. Keep cord away from cutting area and sharp objects.
  4. Kickback Awareness: Hold saw firmly with both hands. Do not cut with tip of bar.

WARNING! Risk of serious injury or death. Never operate without proper safety gear. Keep hands away from chain.

Assembly & Setup

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

  1. Attach guide bar and chain: Place chain over sprocket, align bar with mounting studs, tighten bar nuts finger-tight.
  2. Tension chain: Use tool-free tensioner to adjust until chain snaps back when pulled from bar.
  3. Fill oil reservoir: Use recommended bar and chain oil. Fill to MAX line.
  4. Connect power: Plug into grounded 120V outlet. Ensure cord is untangled.

CAUTION! Ensure chain is properly tensioned before each use. Loose chain can derail.

Specifications

Controls and Components

Front Handle: Contains safety trigger and main trigger. Rear Handle: Power cord entry. Side Panel: Tool-free tensioner, oil fill cap. Top: Chain brake lever.

Controls: Main trigger (must be pressed with safety trigger), safety trigger, chain brake (manual activation or inertia-activated), oiler adjustment dial.

Operation: Press safety trigger, then main trigger to start chain. Release to stop. Activate chain brake by pushing guard forward or during kickback.

Operation

For cutting logs, branches, and firewood.

  1. Pre-cut check: Verify chain tension, oil level, and clear work area.
  2. Starting: Plug in. Hold saw firmly. Press safety trigger, then main trigger.
  3. Cutting: Let chain reach full speed before contacting wood. Use steady pressure; do not force.
  4. Kickback prevention: Keep saw body steady. Cut with middle of bar, not tip.
  5. After cut: Release trigger. Engage chain brake when not cutting.

Tip: Plan cut to avoid pinching bar. Use wedges for large logs.

Chain Maintenance

Regular maintenance ensures performance and safety.

  1. Sharpening: Use round file and guide. File each cutter at 30-degree angle. Maintain equal length on all cutters.
  2. Tensioning: Chain should be snug against bar but pull freely. Adjust when cool.
  3. Oiling: Check reservoir before each use. Adjust flow with dial (more for hardwoods).
  4. Bar maintenance: Clean bar groove. Flip bar periodically for even wear.

WARNING! Always unplug before maintenance. Wear gloves when handling chain.

Cleaning & Storage

Unplug and allow to cool. Clean saw with dry cloth. Remove sawdust from air vents and oil ports.

Storage: Empty oil reservoir or store upright. Cover bar and chain. Store in dry, locked area away from children.

CAUTION! Do not use water or solvents. Keep away from heat sources.

Troubleshooting

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
Chain does not moveTrigger not engaged/brake onPress both triggers; disengage chain brake.
Chain slips or derailsLoose tensionAdjust tension; check for worn bar/chain.
Excessive vibrationLoose parts/dull chainTighten bar nuts; sharpen chain.
Chain does not oilEmpty reservoir/clogged portFill oil; clean oil ports; check adjustment dial.
Motor hums but no rotationJam/overloadUnplug, clear jam; let motor cool.
Poor cutting performanceDull chain/wrong techniqueSharpen chain; use proper cutting pressure.

Service: For electrical or motor issues, contact authorized service center.

Warranty Information

Craftsman Electric Chainsaw includes a 2-year limited warranty covering defects in materials and workmanship. Proof of purchase required. Warranty does not cover normal wear, misuse, or unauthorized repairs. For warranty service, contact Craftsman Customer Support at 1-888-331-4569 or visit www.craftsman.com.

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