Craftsman Mini Chainsaw Manual

The Craftsman Mini Chainsaw is a compact, lightweight, and powerful cordless chainsaw designed for light-duty cutting tasks such as pruning, trimming, and small branch removal. It features a brushless motor, automatic oiling system, tool-free chain tensioning, safety lockout switch, and comes with a rechargeable battery and charger. 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. Operating Instructions 7. Chain Maintenance 8. Battery & Charging 9. Storage & Care 10. Warranty Information 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: Mini Chainsaw body, Guide Bar, Saw Chain, Battery Pack, Charger, Chain Oil, and Allen Wrench.

FeatureDescription
Brushless MotorProvides efficient power with longer runtime and motor life
Automatic Oiling SystemLubricates chain and bar during operation
Tool-Free Chain TensioningAllows for quick chain adjustment without tools
Safety Lockout SwitchPrevents accidental starting
Battery Fuel GaugeDisplays remaining battery charge
Ergonomic HandleProvides comfortable grip and control
Chain BrakeStops chain rotation in case of kickback
Lightweight DesignEasy to handle for extended periods
Battery & Charger IncludedComes with 20V MAX battery and charger
Carrying CaseFor convenient storage and transport

Safety Information

Read all instructions before use. Always wear appropriate safety gear.

  1. Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): Always wear safety glasses, hearing protection, gloves, long pants, and sturdy boots.
  2. Work Area Safety: Keep bystanders, children, and pets at least 15 feet away. Ensure secure footing.
  3. Chain Saw Handling: Hold with both hands. Never operate above shoulder height or on a ladder.
  4. Kickback Awareness: Be aware of kickback zone (upper quadrant of bar tip). Use reduced-kickback chain.
  5. Before Starting: Check chain tension, sharpness, and lubrication. Ensure battery is securely installed.

WARNING! Failure to follow safety instructions can result in serious injury or death. This tool is not intended for felling trees.

Assembly & Setup

Unpack and inspect all contents. Assemble before first use.

  1. Install the Guide Bar and Chain: Place chain over bar, aligning drive links with bar groove. Fit bar onto saw body, aligning adjustment pin. Tighten bar nuts finger-tight.
  2. Tension the Chain: Use tool-free tensioning knob to adjust until chain fits snug against bar but can be pulled around by hand. Tighten bar nuts securely.
  3. Fill Chain Oil Reservoir: Use recommended bar and chain oil. Fill reservoir to marked level. Check for leaks.
  4. Install Battery: Insert fully charged battery into battery port until it clicks.
  5. Final Check: Ensure all parts are secure. Pull chain around bar to check for free movement.

CAUTION! Always disconnect battery before performing any assembly, maintenance, or cleaning.

Specifications

Controls and Components

Main Body: Front Hand Guard/Chain Brake, Oil Filler Cap, Guide Bar, Chain, Bar Nuts, Tensioning Knob, Rear Handle with Battery Port.

Controls: Safety Lockout Switch (must be pressed before trigger), Trigger Switch (for operation), Battery Release Button, Battery Fuel Gauge LEDs.

Operation: To start, press safety lockout switch with thumb, then squeeze trigger. Release trigger to stop. Chain brake can be engaged manually or may activate automatically on kickback.

Operating Instructions

For safe and effective cutting.

  1. Starting a Cut: Let the chain reach full speed before contacting wood. Apply light downward pressure.
  2. Basic Cutting: Use the section of the bar closest to the saw body for best control. Avoid using the tip.
  3. Pruning: Make an undercut first, then a top cut to prevent bark tearing.
  4. Limbing: Cut limbs from the opposite side of the tree, standing uphill if on a slope.
  5. During Operation: Periodically check oil level and chain tension. Stop immediately if unusual noise or vibration occurs.
  6. Stopping: Release trigger. Engage chain brake for storage or transport.

Tip: Plan your cut and escape path before starting. Never cut with the saw held with one hand.

Chain Maintenance

Proper maintenance ensures optimal performance and safety.

  1. Chain Tension: Check before each use. Chain should be snug but pull freely. Adjust using tensioning knob when chain is cool.
  2. Chain Sharpening: Use a round file of correct size. File each cutter at the same angle (typically 30°). Maintain equal length on all cutters.
  3. Chain Lubrication: The automatic oiler should leave a thin line of oil on a piece of cardboard held near the bar tip during operation. Refill oil reservoir as needed.
  4. Bar Maintenance: Clean bar groove regularly. Flip the bar periodically for even wear.
  5. Chain Replacement: Replace chain when cutters are worn down, damaged, or after repeated sharpening.

WARNING! Always disconnect battery before performing any maintenance. Wear heavy gloves when handling the chain.

Battery & Charging

Use only Craftsman 20V MAX batteries and charger.

  1. Charging: Plug charger into outlet. Insert battery. Charging indicator will light. Battery is fully charged when all LEDs are solid green.
  2. Battery Care: Store battery in a cool, dry place. Do not expose to water or fire. Do not disassemble.
  3. Battery Fuel Gauge: Press button on battery to see charge level (LEDs indicate remaining capacity).
  4. Disposal: Do not dispose of in household trash. Recycle at an authorized service center.

CAUTION! Use only the provided charger. Do not charge a damaged or wet battery.

Storage & Care

Clean and store properly to extend tool life.

  1. Cleaning: Disconnect battery. Wipe exterior with a dry cloth. Clean sawdust from air vents, oil ports, and bar groove.
  2. Chain Storage: Before long-term storage, remove chain, clean it, and soak it in oil. Coat the guide bar with oil.
  3. Battery Storage: Store battery at 50% charge in a temperature-controlled environment.
  4. General Storage: Store in a dry, locked location out of reach of children. Use the provided carrying case.

CAUTION! Never use water, solvents, or compressed air to clean the chainsaw, especially the motor compartment.

Warranty Information

Craftsman Mini Chainsaw is backed by a limited 3-year warranty covering defects in materials or workmanship. Battery and charger have a separate 3-year warranty. Proof of purchase is required. This warranty does not cover damage from misuse, neglect, accidents, unauthorized repairs, or normal wear. For warranty service, contact Craftsman Customer Service at 1-888-331-4569 or visit www.craftsman.com.

Troubleshooting

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
Chainsaw will not startBattery not installed/charged; Safety lockout not engagedInstall charged battery; Press safety lockout switch before trigger.
Chain does not moveChain brake engaged; Chain jammed; Low batteryDisengage chain brake; Clear jam; Charge or replace battery.
Chain slips or comes offChain too loose; Worn bar or chainTension chain properly; Inspect and replace worn bar/chain.
Excessive vibrationLoose parts; Dull or damaged chainTighten all nuts/bolts; Sharpen or replace chain.
Chain does not oilEmpty oil reservoir; Clogged oil portFill with correct oil; Clean oil ports on bar and saw.
Poor cutting performanceDull chain; Cutting too large materialSharpen chain; Use saw only for recommended branch sizes.
Battery not chargingFaulty charger/battery; Poor contactTry different outlet; Clean battery/charger contacts; Contact service.

Service: For repairs not covered in this manual, contact Craftsman Customer Service: 1-888-331-4569 or www.craftsman.com. Use only genuine Craftsman replacement parts.

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