sears craftsman chainsaw owners manual

The Sears Craftsman Chainsaw is a powerful and reliable tool designed for cutting wood, pruning trees, and various outdoor tasks. It features a gas-powered 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: Engine, Guide Bar, Chain, Chain Brake, Throttle Trigger, Choke Control, Primer Bulb, Oil Tank, Fuel Tank, Anti-Vibration System.

Safety Information

Read all instructions before operation. Wear proper safety gear.

1. Personal Protective Equipment: Always wear safety glasses, hearing protection, gloves, steel-toed boots, and chainsaw chaps.
2. Clear Work Area: Remove debris and ensure secure footing.
3. Inspect Chainsaw: Check for loose parts, chain tension, and fuel leaks before starting.
4. Safe Starting: Place on ground, engage chain brake, and pull starter cord firmly.
5. Kickback Awareness: Hold saw firmly with both hands; avoid tip contact.

WARNING! Never operate chainsaw above shoulder height or on a ladder. Keep bystanders at least 15 feet away.

Assembly Instructions

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

1. Attach Guide Bar: Place bar onto mounting studs, align chain groove.
2. Install Chain: Position chain on bar with cutting teeth facing forward.
3. Secure Bar Nut: Tighten bar nuts finger-tight, then use wrench for final torque.
4. Adjust Chain Tension: Use tool-less adjuster until chain snaps back when pulled.
5. Fill Fluids: Add recommended 2-cycle oil/gas mix to fuel tank and bar/chain oil to oil reservoir.

CAUTION! Ensure chain is properly installed and tensioned before starting engine.

Specifications

• Engine Type: 2-cycle gasoline engine.
• Displacement: 42cc (varies by model).
• Guide Bar Length: 16" to 20" (model dependent).
• Chain Pitch: 3/8" low-profile.
• Fuel Capacity: 14.9 fl oz (0.44 L).
• Oil Capacity: 8.5 fl oz (0.25 L).
• Weight: 10.8 lbs (without fuel/oil).
• Sound Level: 106 dB(A) at operator's ear.
• Vibration Level: 4.5 m/s² (front/rear handles).
• Warranty: 2-year limited warranty.

Controls and Operation

Main Controls: On/Off Switch, Choke Control, Primer Bulb, Throttle Trigger, Throttle Lockout, Chain Brake Lever.

Starting Procedure:

1. Engage chain brake by pushing forward.
2. Move On/Off switch to "I" (On) position.
3. Press primer bulb 5-10 times.
4. Set choke to full position.
5. Place on ground, hold front handle with left hand, place right foot through rear handle.
6. Pull starter cord briskly until engine fires.
7. Move choke to half position, pull cord again.
8. Allow to warm up 30 seconds before disengaging chain brake.

Cutting Techniques: Use lower part of bar for cutting; maintain steady throttle; let chain do the work.

Chain Installation & Tensioning

Proper chain tension is critical for safe operation.

1. Loosen bar nuts with wrench.
2. Turn tensioning screw clockwise to tighten chain.
3. Check tension: Chain should snap back when pulled from guide bar.
4. Retighten bar nuts while lifting tip of bar.
5. Recheck tension after 5 minutes of operation.

Tip: Chain should have 1/8" to 1/4" play when lifted from bar center.

Fuel & Oil Requirements

Fuel Mix: Use 89 octane or higher unleaded gasoline mixed with 2-cycle engine oil at 40:1 ratio (3.2 oz oil per 1 gallon gas).

Bar & Chain Oil: Use SAE 30 weight or special chainsaw bar oil. Do not use waste oil.

1. Mix fuel in approved container outside.
2. Fill fuel tank to 80% capacity.
3. Fill oil reservoir completely.
4. Wipe spills immediately.

WARNING! Never use automotive oil or straight gasoline. Store fuel mix for maximum 30 days.

Maintenance Schedule

Regular maintenance ensures optimal performance and safety.

Chain Sharpening: Use round file matching chain pitch; maintain 30° cutting angle.

Storage Guidelines

Proper storage prevents fuel system damage and corrosion.

1. Drain fuel tank completely.
2. Run engine until it stalls to clear carburetor.
3. Remove chain, clean and soak in oil.
4. Clean entire saw, especially cooling fins.
5. Store in dry, cool place with bar cover installed.

CAUTION! Never store with fuel in tank for more than 30 days. Use fuel stabilizer if needed.

Warranty Information

Craftsman Chainsaws come with a 2-year limited warranty covering defects in materials and workmanship. Warranty does not cover normal wear, misuse, improper maintenance, or commercial use. Keep original receipt as proof of purchase. For warranty service, contact Sears Customer Service at 1-888-331-4569 or visit www.craftsman.com.

Troubleshooting

Service: For repairs beyond basic maintenance, contact authorized Craftsman service center at 1-888-331-4569.