Craftsman 16 Inch 42cc Chainsaw Manual

The Craftsman 16 Inch 42cc Chainsaw is a gas-powered chainsaw featuring a 42cc 2-cycle engine, a 16-inch Oregon bar and chain, automatic oiling system, anti-vibration handles, tool-less chain tensioning, and a safety chain brake. It is designed for general property maintenance, limbing, pruning, and cutting firewood. Below are key sections for safety, features, assembly, operation, maintenance, troubleshooting, and specifications.

Features at a Glance

Key components: 42cc 2-cycle engine, 16-inch guide bar and chain, automatic chain oiler, front hand guard with chain brake, anti-vibration system, tool-less chain tensioner, and side-access chain cover.

Assembly & Setup

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

1. Attach the guide bar and chain: Loosen side cover nuts, position bar, loop chain over sprocket and bar, adjust tension.
2. Fill oil reservoir: Use recommended bar and chain oil.
3. Mix fuel: Use fresh unleaded gasoline (87 octane minimum) with 2-cycle engine oil at 40:1 ratio (3.2 oz oil per 1 gallon gas).
4. Prime and start: Press primer bulb 5-7 times, set choke, pull starter cord.

WARNING! Always wear protective gear (gloves, eye protection, hearing protection, chainsaw chaps) during assembly and operation. Ensure chain brake is engaged when not cutting.

Safety Instructions

Read and understand all safety warnings before operation.

1. Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): Always wear safety glasses, hearing protection, gloves, sturdy boots, and chainsaw chaps.
2. Clear work area: Ensure no bystanders, pets, or obstacles within 15 feet.
3. Check chain tension and sharpness before each use.
4. Always hold chainsaw with both hands; right hand on rear handle, left hand on front handle.
5. Never operate above shoulder height or on a ladder.
6. Use chain brake when carrying or moving between cuts.
7. Shut off engine before adjusting or servicing.

CAUTION! Kickback can occur. Keep nose of bar away from obstructions. Do not let tip contact any object.

Specifications

• Engine Type: 2-cycle, air-cooled, single cylinder.
• Displacement: 42cc.
• Fuel Mix Ratio: 40:1 (unleaded gasoline to 2-cycle oil).
• Bar Length: 16 inches.
• Chain Pitch/Gauge: .325” pitch, .050” gauge (Oregon 91VXL chain).
• Oil System: Automatic, adjustable.
• Ignition: Electronic.
• Sound Rating: Approx. 106 dB(A) at operator's ear.
• Vibration Level: Front/Rear handle: < 2.5 m/s².
• Warranty: 2-year limited warranty.

Controls and Components

Main Controls: Throttle trigger, throttle lockout, choke control, primer bulb, stop switch, chain brake lever.

Components: Front handle with hand guard, rear handle, fuel tank cap, oil tank cap, side cover, chain tensioner knob, spark plug cover, air filter cover.

Operation: Engage throttle lockout before squeezing throttle. Push forward on hand guard to engage chain brake. Choke for cold starts. Stop switch to shut off engine.

Fuel & Oil

Use fresh unleaded gasoline (87 octane or higher) mixed with high-quality 2-cycle engine oil.

1. Mix fuel in approved container: 40:1 ratio (3.2 oz oil per 1 gallon gas). Shake well.
2. Fill fuel tank: Use funnel to avoid spills. Replace cap securely.
3. Fill oil tank: Use recommended bar and chain oil. Check level before each use.
4. Adjust oil flow: Turn screw near oil tank for more/less oil (clockwise for less).

Tip: Never use old or stale gasoline. Always mix fuel outdoors in well-ventilated area.

Operation

Starting procedure (cold engine):

1. Place on flat, clear ground. Engage chain brake.
2. Press primer bulb 5-7 times.
3. Move choke lever to FULL CHOKE position.
4. Pull starter rope briskly 3-5 times until engine "pops".
5. Move choke to HALF CHOKE. Pull rope until engine starts.
6. Allow to warm up 30 seconds. Squeeze throttle to disengage choke.

Cutting techniques: Use lower part of bar for cutting. Let chain do the work; do not force. For bucking, support log evenly. For limbing, cut branches from bottom side first.

WARNING! Always be aware of kickback zone (upper quarter of bar tip). Maintain secure footing.

Chain Maintenance

Chain sharpening: Use round file (5/32") and file guide. Maintain 30° cutting angle. File each cutter evenly. Check depth gauges with gauge tool.

Chain tension: Chain should snap back when pulled from bar. Adjust with tool-less knob when engine is off and cool. Tighten side cover nuts after adjustment.

Cleaning: Remove debris from air filter, cooling fins, and guide bar groove regularly.

Storage

Long-term storage (over 30 days):

1. Drain fuel tank and run engine until it stops to clear carburetor.
2. Remove spark plug, add 1 teaspoon of oil into cylinder, pull starter slowly to coat, reinstall plug.
3. Clean entire saw, especially air filter and cooling fins.
4. Loosen chain tension. Store in dry, covered area.

CAUTION! Never store with fuel in tank indoors. Fuel can degrade and damage engine.

Warranty Information

Craftsman 16 Inch 42cc Chainsaw is covered by a 2-year limited warranty from date of purchase against defects in materials or workmanship. Warranty does not cover normal wear, misuse, improper maintenance, or use of non-genuine parts. For warranty service, contact Craftsman Customer Support at 1-888-331-4569 or visit www.craftsman.com. Keep original receipt as proof of purchase.

Troubleshooting

Service: For repairs, use authorized service centers. Replacement parts: guide bar # 123456, chain # 91VXL, spark plug # RCJ-6Y.

Support: 1-888-331-4569; www.craftsman.com