Safety Instructions
Essential Safety Gear:
- Safety glasses or face shield
- Hearing protection
- Work gloves
- Steel-toed boots
- Close-fitting clothing
Critical Safety Rules
- Inspect Before Use: Check chainsaw for damage, loose parts, and proper chain tension before each use.
- Clear Work Area: Ensure work area is clear of obstacles, people, and animals before starting.
- Proper Stance: Maintain secure footing with feet shoulder-width apart when operating.
- Chain Brake: Always engage chain brake when not actively cutting or when moving between cuts.
- Electrical Safety: Use only with properly grounded outlet. Keep cord away from cutting area.
- Kickback Awareness: Be aware of kickback zone - upper quadrant of bar tip. Never cut with this area.
- Two-Hand Operation: Always use both hands on the chainsaw during operation.
Assembly Guide
Tools Needed:
- Adjustable wrench
- Screwdriver set
- Chain tensioning tool (included)
- Bar and chain oil
Step-by-Step Assembly
- Unpack Components: Remove all parts from packaging including bar, chain, and sprocket cover.
- Install Bar and Chain: Place chain over bar with cutting teeth facing forward. Align bar with drive sprocket.
- Attach Sprocket Cover: Position sprocket cover over bar and secure with provided nuts and bolts.
- Tension Chain: Adjust chain tension using tensioning screw until chain snaps back when pulled from bar.
- Oil System Check: Fill oil reservoir with recommended bar and chain oil. Check for proper oil flow.
- Final Inspection: Ensure all fasteners are tight and chain moves freely without binding.
Specifications
| Model Number | CMECS10 |
| Type | Electric Chainsaw |
| Bar Length | 10 inches |
| Chain Pitch | 3/8 inch |
| Chain Gauge | 0.050 inch |
| Motor Power | 12 Amp |
| Voltage | 120V AC |
| Noise Level | 98 dB |
| Weight | 8.5 lbs |
| Oil Capacity | 6.8 fl oz |
| Cord Length | 8 feet |
| Chain Speed | 25 ft/sec |
Warranty Information
- Full Warranty: 2 years limited warranty
- Motor Warranty: 3 years on electric motor
- Additional Coverage: Optional extended warranty available
For warranty service, contact Craftsman Customer Service at 1-888-331-4569 or visit Craftsman.com
Operation Guide
Starting Procedure
Ensure chain brake is engaged. Plug into grounded outlet. Hold rear handle with right hand, front handle with left. Press safety trigger then main trigger to start.
Basic Cutting Techniques
Let chain do the work - don't force it. Maintain steady pressure. For plunge cuts, use lower quadrant of bar tip. Always cut at full throttle.
Chain Brake Operation
Engage chain brake by pushing forward on front hand guard. Disengage by pulling back toward handle. Test brake function before each use.
Oil System Operation
Automatic oiling system lubricates chain during operation. Manual oiler button provides additional lubrication for difficult cuts.
Kickback Prevention
Always maintain secure grip. Never cut above shoulder height. Be aware of bar tip contact. Use reduced-kickback chain.
Proper Stance & Positioning
Stand to left of cut line. Keep left arm straight, right arm slightly bent. Position body so you can move quickly if needed.
Cutting Applications
Limbing
Cut branches from felled trees using top of bar with pulling chain motion
Bucking
Cut felled trees into lengths using entire bar length for efficiency
Pruning
Remove tree branches using careful, controlled cuts with bar tip protected
Firewood Cutting
Cut logs to length using sawhorses or proper supports for safety
Storm Cleanup
Clear fallen branches using extra caution for tensioned wood
General Yard Work
Maintain trees and shrubs with proper cutting techniques
Maintenance Schedule
| Maintenance Task | Frequency | Procedure |
|---|---|---|
| Chain Sharpening | Every 2-3 hours of use | Use round file and guide to maintain 30° cutting angle |
| Chain Tension Check | Before each use | Adjust until chain snaps back when pulled from bar |
| Bar Inspection | Weekly | Check for wear, straightness, and groove condition |
| Oil System Check | Before each use | Fill reservoir and check for proper oil flow to chain |
| Air Filter Cleaning | Monthly | Remove and clean filter with compressed air |
| General Inspection | Monthly | Check all fasteners, electrical connections, and safety features |
Chain Sharpening Guide
- File Size: Use 5/32" round file for 3/8" pitch chain
- Angle: Maintain 30° cutting angle on all cutters
- Depth Gauges: File depth gauges to 0.025" below cutters
- Procedure: File from inside to outside with consistent strokes
- Equal Sharpening: Sharpen all cutters to same length
Troubleshooting
| Problem | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Chainsaw won't start | Power issue, safety switch not engaged, brush wear | Check power supply, ensure safety trigger is pressed, check brushes |
| Poor cutting performance | Dull chain, improper tension, worn bar | Sharpen chain, adjust tension, inspect and replace bar if needed |
| Chain won't stay lubricated | Empty oil reservoir, clogged oil ports, faulty pump | Fill reservoir, clean oil ports, check oil pump operation |
| Excessive vibration | Unbalanced chain, loose fasteners, worn sprocket | Balance chain, tighten all fasteners, replace sprocket |
| Chain comes off bar | Loose chain tension, worn bar, damaged drive links | Adjust tension, inspect bar and chain for wear, replace if needed |
| Motor overheats | Dull chain, excessive load, ventilation blocked | Sharpen chain, reduce cutting pressure, clean ventilation slots |
Common Issues & Solutions
- Chain Binding: Use wedge to relieve pressure, don't force saw
- Bar Smoking: Insufficient lubrication - check oil system immediately
- Uneven Cutting: Sharpen cutters evenly on both sides of chain
- Power Loss: Check extension cord gauge - use 14 gauge minimum
- Oil Leaks: Check reservoir cap seal and oil line connections
Manual Downloads
Current Model Manuals
CMECS10
10" Electric Chainsaw
CMECS12
12" Electric Chainsaw
CMECS14
14" Electric Chainsaw
CMECS16
16" Electric Chainsaw
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