Craftsman 18 42cc Chainsaw Manual

The Craftsman 18-inch 42cc Gas Chainsaw is a powerful and reliable tool designed for homeowners and DIY enthusiasts. This manual covers the Craftsman model 358.350xxx series, featuring a 42cc 2-cycle engine, 18-inch Oregon bar and chain, automatic oiler, anti-vibration system, and easy-start technology. Below are key sections for safety, features, assembly, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

Features at a Glance

Key components: 42cc 2-cycle engine, 18-inch Oregon bar and chain, automatic chain oiler, anti-vibration handles, tool-less chain tensioning, inertia chain brake, and easy-start system.

Safety Information

Read all instructions before use. Always wear protective gear.

1. Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): Safety glasses, hearing protection, gloves, chainsaw chaps, and steel-toe boots.
2. Operating Area: Clear work area of obstacles and bystanders.
3. Fuel Safety: Mix fuel outdoors, away from sparks or flames. Use fresh gasoline and 2-cycle oil (50:1 ratio).
4. Kickback Awareness: Hold saw firmly with both hands; do not cut with tip of bar.

WARNING! Chainsaws are dangerous. Failure to follow safety instructions can result in serious injury or death. Keep hands and feet away from moving chain.

Assembly & Setup

Unpack and inspect contents. Assemble on a clean, flat surface.

1. Attach Bar and Chain: Place bar over studs, loop chain over sprocket and bar, adjust tension.
2. Fill Oil Tank: Use bar and chain oil (not motor oil).
3. Mix Fuel: Use 89 octane gasoline and Craftsman 2-cycle oil (50:1 ratio). Shake well.
4. Fill Fuel Tank: Add mixed fuel to tank.
5. Check Chain Tension: Chain should snap back when pulled from bar.

CAUTION! Ensure chain brake is engaged during assembly. Keep chain away from skin and clothing.

Specifications

• Engine Displacement: 42cc (2.6 cu in).
• Power Output: 2.2 HP.
• Fuel Mix Ratio: 50:1 (Gasoline to 2-cycle oil).
• Bar Length: 18 inches.
• Chain Pitch: 3/8 inch.
• Chain Gauge: 0.050 inch.
• Weight (dry): 12.8 lbs (5.8 kg).
• Sound Pressure: 108 dB(A).
• Vibration Level: 5.2 m/s².
• Warranty: 2-year limited warranty.

Controls and Components

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

Components: Front hand guard, rear handle, fuel tank cap, oil tank cap, spark plug, air filter cover, muffler, chain catcher, and guide bar.

Operation: Pull choke for cold start, press primer bulb 5 times, set stop switch to "I", pull starter cord. For warm start, leave choke open. Engage chain brake by pushing handle forward; disengage by pulling back toward rear handle.

Operation Instructions

Starting, cutting techniques, and shutdown procedures.

1. Starting: Engage chain brake. Set choke, prime, pull cord until engine fires. Disengage choke, pull again to start.
2. Cutting: Hold saw firmly. Let chain reach full speed before cutting. Use lower part of bar for cutting; avoid tip to prevent kickback.
3. Shutdown: Release throttle, engage chain brake, move stop switch to "O".

Tip: Let engine warm up for 30 seconds before cutting. Never drop-start the chainsaw.

Chain Maintenance

Proper chain care ensures performance and safety.

1. Sharpening: Use round file (7/32 inch) and file guide. Maintain 30-degree cutting angle.
2. Tensioning: Chain should be snug against bar but pull freely. Adjust when cool.
3. Lubrication: Check oil level before each use. Adjust oil flow rate if needed.
4. Inspection: Look for damaged, cracked, or worn drive links. Replace if necessary.

WARNING! Always wear gloves when handling chain. Ensure engine is off and cool before maintenance.

Engine Maintenance

Regular maintenance extends engine life.

Air Filter: Clean every 10 hours; replace if damaged. Spark Plug: Clean and gap to 0.025 inch; replace annually. Fuel Filter: Replace each season. Carburetor Adjustment: Factory set; do not adjust unless necessary. Muffler: Keep spark arrestor screen clean.

Storage

Prepare chainsaw for long-term storage.

1. Drain fuel tank and run engine until it stops.
2. Remove spark plug, add 1 teaspoon of oil, pull starter cord slowly, reinstall plug.
3. Clean entire saw, especially air filter and cooling fins.
4. Store in dry, cool place, away from children.

CAUTION! Never store with fuel in tank for more than 30 days. Fuel can degrade and damage engine.

Warranty Information

Craftsman 18-inch 42cc Chainsaw is covered by a 2-year limited warranty from date of purchase. Warranty covers defects in materials and workmanship under normal use. Not covered: wear items (chain, bar, spark plug), damage from misuse, improper maintenance, or commercial use. 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 not covered in manual, contact authorized Craftsman service center.

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