Craftsman 18 Inch Chainsaw Manual

The Craftsman 18 Inch Chainsaw is a powerful gas-powered cutting tool designed for homeowners and DIY enthusiasts. It features an 18-inch Oregon bar and chain, a robust 42cc 2-cycle engine, automatic oiling system, tool-free chain tensioning, inertia chain brake, anti-vibration handles, and a primer bulb for easy starting. 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, inertia-activated chain brake, anti-vibration system, primer bulb, choke control, and tool-free chain tensioner.

Safety Instructions

Read all instructions before use. Always wear protective gear.

1. Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): Wear safety glasses, hearing protection, gloves, chainsaw chaps, and steel-toed boots.
2. Clear Work Area: Ensure no bystanders, pets, or obstacles within 15 feet.
3. Secure Workpiece: Do not cut loose material; secure logs with sawhorses.
4. Proper Grip: Hold with both hands, thumbs wrapped around handles.
5. Kickback Awareness: Avoid nose of bar contact; use reduced-kickback chain.

WARNING! Chainsaws are dangerous. Failure to follow safety rules can result in serious injury or death. Keep hands away from chain. Never operate when tired or under the influence.

Assembly & Setup

Unpack and inspect contents. Assemble bar and chain.

1. Attach Bar & Chain: Place chain over sprocket, align bar with mounting studs, tighten nuts finger-tight.
2. Adjust Chain Tension: Use tool-free dial to tension chain until snug against bar (lift chain to check).
3. Fill Bar & Chain Oil: Use SAE 30 weight oil or designated chainsaw bar oil.
4. Mix Fuel: Use fresh unleaded gasoline (87 octane minimum) with 2-cycle oil at 50:1 ratio (see section 6).
5. Final Tightening: After tensioning, fully tighten bar nuts.

CAUTION! Ensure chain is installed with cutting teeth facing forward on top of bar. Chain brake must be disengaged (pulled back) before starting.

Specifications

• Engine Type: 2-cycle, air-cooled, single cylinder.
• Displacement: 42 cc.
• Fuel/Oil Ratio: 50:1 (unleaded gasoline to 2-cycle oil).
• Bar Length: 18 inches.
• Chain Pitch/Gauge: 3/8-inch / .050-inch.
• Chain Speed: Approx. 55 ft/sec at max RPM.
• Idle Speed: 2,800 RPM (factory set).
• Weight (dry): Approx. 12.5 lbs.
• Sound Power Level: 112 dB(A).
• Vibration Level: Front handle: 4.5 m/s²; Rear handle: 6.5 m/s².

Controls and Components

Main Controls: On/Off switch, choke lever, primer bulb, throttle trigger, throttle lockout, chain brake lever.

Components: Front handle with chain brake, rear handle with throttle, fuel tank cap, oil tank cap, spark plug, air filter cover, muffler, guide bar, cutting chain, chain tensioner dial.

Operation: Set On/Off to "I" (on). Pull chain brake back toward rear handle to disengage. Press throttle lockout and squeeze throttle trigger to increase engine speed. Engage chain brake by pushing front guard forward (manually) or during kickback (inertia-activated).

Fuel & Oil Mixing

Use fresh unleaded gasoline (87 octane or higher) and high-quality 2-cycle engine oil certified for air-cooled engines (ISO-L-EGD, JASO FD, or equivalent).

1. Mix Ratio: 50:1 (2.6 fl oz of oil per 1 gallon of gasoline).
2. Mixing Container: Use approved fuel can. Add gasoline first, then oil.
3. Shake Thoroughly: Mix well before filling chainsaw.
4. Storage: Use fuel within 30 days; add fuel stabilizer for longer storage.

WARNING! Never use automotive motor oil, diesel fuel, or old gasoline. Do not mix directly in chainsaw tank. Avoid spilling fuel on hot surfaces.

Starting & Operation

Starting Procedure (Cold Engine):

1. Place on flat, clear ground. Engage chain brake.
2. Set On/Off switch to "I". Pull choke lever to full choke position.
3. Press primer bulb 5-6 times until fuel is visible.
4. Hold rear handle with right hand, place left foot through rear handle.
5. Pull starter rope briskly 2-3 times until engine "pops".
6. Move choke to half position, pull starter until engine starts.
7. Allow to warm up 30 seconds, then push choke to off.
8. Disengage chain brake by pulling toward rear handle.

Cutting Tips: Let chain reach full speed before cutting. Use lower quadrant of bar to avoid kickback. Do not force saw; let chain do the work.

Maintenance Schedule

Regular maintenance ensures performance and longevity.

CAUTION! Always disconnect spark plug wire before performing maintenance.

Chain Sharpening & Replacement

Sharpening: Use round file matching chain pitch (5/32-inch for 3/8" pitch). File at 30-degree angle, maintaining original cutter shape. File all cutters to same length.

Replacement: When cutters are worn below 0.25 inches, replace chain. Always replace with Craftsman 18-inch chain (3/8" pitch, .050 gauge, 56 drive links).

1. Remove bar nuts and cover.
2. Remove old chain, clean bar groove and sprocket.
3. Install new chain with cutters facing forward on top.
4. Reassemble, tension chain, tighten nuts.

Tip: Rotate bar periodically to ensure even wear.

Storage Guidelines

Long-term Storage (over 30 days):

1. Drain all fuel from tank and carburetor.
2. Run engine until it stops to clear fuel lines.
3. Remove chain, clean and soak in oil. Store bar separately.
4. Clean entire saw, apply light oil to metal surfaces.
5. Store in dry, cool place, away from children.

CAUTION! Never store with fuel in tank. Fuel can deteriorate and damage carburetor.

Troubleshooting

Service: For repairs, contact authorized Craftsman service center. Do not attempt major repairs unless qualified.

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