Craftsman 42cc 18 in Chainsaw Simpul Manual

The Craftsman 42cc 18-inch Chainsaw is a gas-powered tool designed for cutting, limbing, and felling trees. It features a 42cc 2-stroke engine, an 18-inch Oregon bar and chain, automatic oiler, anti-vibration system, chain brake, and easy-start technology. Below are key sections for safety, features, assembly, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

1. Features at a Glance 2. Assembly & Setup 3. Safety Information 4. Specifications 5. Controls and Components 6. Starting the Engine 7. Operating Procedures 8. Chain Maintenance 9. Storage & Care 10. Warranty Information 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: 42cc 2-stroke engine, 18-inch Oregon bar and chain, automatic chain oiler, anti-vibration handles, inertia-activated chain brake, side-access chain tensioner, and easy-pull starting system.

FeatureDescription
Engine42cc 2-stroke, air-cooled
Bar Length18 inches (Oregon)
Chain.325-inch pitch, 72 drive links
Automatic OilerLubricates chain during operation
Chain BrakeInertia-activated safety feature
Anti-VibrationReduces user fatigue
Fuel Tank14.9 fl oz (440 ml) capacity
Oil Tank8.5 fl oz (250 ml) capacity
Weight12.8 lbs (5.8 kg) without bar & chain
IgnitionElectronic, with stop switch

Assembly & Setup

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

  1. Attach the guide bar and chain: Place bar over studs, align chain with sprocket, adjust tension.
  2. Fill with fuel: Mix 50:1 gas-to-oil ratio (2.6 oz oil per gallon). Use fresh unleaded gasoline.
  3. Fill chain oil: Use SAE 30 bar & chain oil. Fill reservoir to MAX line.
  4. Check controls: Ensure throttle trigger, choke, and stop switch function properly.

WARNING! Wear gloves during assembly. Keep away from sparks or flames when handling fuel.

Safety Information

Always follow safety guidelines to prevent injury.

  1. Wear PPE: Safety glasses, hearing protection, gloves, steel-toe boots, and chainsaw chaps.
  2. Clear work area: Remove obstacles and ensure secure footing.
  3. Check chain brake: Test before each use by pushing handle forward.
  4. Never operate above shoulder height or on a ladder.
  5. Keep bystanders at least 15 feet away.

CAUTION! Kickback can occur. Hold saw firmly with both hands. Do not let tip contact objects.

Specifications

Controls and Components

Main components: Front handle with chain brake, rear handle with throttle trigger, choke lever, primer bulb, stop switch, fuel cap, oil cap, and side-access tensioner.

Controls: Throttle trigger (with lockout), choke (cold start), primer bulb (3-5 presses), stop switch (OFF/RUN), chain brake lever, and decompression valve (if equipped).

Maintenance points: Air filter cover, spark plug, muffler, chain catcher, and bar nuts.

Starting the Engine

Follow these steps for safe starting.

  1. Place saw on flat ground, clear of debris.
  2. Engage chain brake by pushing handle forward.
  3. Set choke to FULL position (cold engine).
  4. Press primer bulb 3-5 times until fuel is visible.
  5. Pull starter rope briskly until engine fires.
  6. Move choke to HALF position, pull again to start.
  7. Allow engine to warm up for 30 seconds before releasing chain brake.

Tip: For warm restart, set choke to OFF and do not prime.

Operating Procedures

Proper technique ensures efficient and safe cutting.

  1. Grip: Hold front handle with left hand, rear handle with right hand.
  2. Stance: Stand with feet shoulder-width apart, left foot slightly forward.
  3. Cutting: Let chain do the work; avoid forcing. Use full throttle during cuts.
  4. Limbing: Cut from top of log, keep saw against material.
  5. Felling: Plan escape path. Make notch cut first, then back cut.
  6. Buckling: Support log properly. Cut from top to avoid pinching.

WARNING! Always shut off engine before adjusting chain or moving between cuts.

Chain Maintenance

Regular maintenance ensures optimal performance and safety.

  1. Sharpening: Use round file and guide. File at 30° angle, equal strokes per tooth.
  2. Tension: Chain should snap back when pulled from bar. Adjust with side tensioner when cool.
  3. Lubrication: Check oil flow by pointing tip at light surface; oil line should appear.
  4. Depth gauges: File to 0.025 inches below cutter top.
  5. Inspection: Replace chain if drive links are worn or cutters are damaged.

CAUTION! Wear heavy gloves when handling chain. Always tension chain when cool.

Storage & Care

Prepare saw for storage to prevent damage.

  1. Drain fuel tank or add fuel stabilizer.
  2. Run engine until carburetor is dry.
  3. Remove chain, clean in solvent, coat with oil.
  4. Clean air filter and spark plug.
  5. 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 carburetor.

Warranty Information

Craftsman 42cc Chainsaw includes a 2-year limited warranty covering defects in materials and workmanship. Warranty does not cover normal wear, misuse, or improper maintenance. 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

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
Engine won't startNo fuel, flooded, spark plugCheck fuel mix; dry plug; replace spark plug.
Engine runs then diesClogged filter, ventClean air filter; check fuel tank vent.
Chain doesn't turnBrake engaged, clutch, sprocketDisengage brake; check clutch drum; replace sprocket if worn.
Chain throws oilOver-oiling, wrong oilAdjust oiler; use correct bar & chain oil.
Excessive vibrationLoose parts, unbalanced chainTighten all bolts; balance chain.
Poor cutting performanceDull chain, low chain speedSharpen chain; check throttle cable adjustment.

Service: For repairs, contact authorized Craftsman service center. Do not attempt major repairs if unqualified.

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

Craftsman 42cc 18 in Chainsaw Simpul Manual © - All Rights Reserved 2025