Craftsman 42cc Chainsaw Manual

The Craftsman 42cc Chainsaw is a powerful gas-powered tool designed for demanding cutting tasks. It features a 42cc 2-stroke engine, automatic oiling system, anti-vibration handles, chain brake for safety, and a 16-inch or 18-inch guide bar (model dependent). Below are key sections for safety, features, assembly, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

Features at a Glance

Key components: 42cc 2-cycle engine, Chain Brake, Throttle Trigger Lockout, Automatic Oiling System, Anti-Vibration Handles, Decompression Valve (if equipped), Spark Arrestor Muffler.

Safety Information

Read and understand all instructions before use. Always wear proper PPE.

1. Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): Always wear safety glasses, hearing protection, heavy-duty gloves, chainsaw chaps/pants, and sturdy boots.
2. Pre-Operation Check: Inspect chainsaw for damage, ensure chain is sharp and properly tensioned, check all fasteners are tight.
3. Operating Zone: Keep bystanders and pets at least 30 feet away. Be aware of your surroundings.
4. Kickback Danger: Understand kickback zone (upper quadrant of bar tip). Never cut with the tip. Maintain firm grip.

WARNING! Failure to follow safety instructions can result in serious injury or death. The chain brake is a safety device but does not eliminate all risk.

Assembly & Setup

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

1. Attach Guide Bar & Chain: Place bar onto mounting studs. Loop chain over sprocket and onto bar groove, ensuring cutting teeth face forward on top. Install clutch cover and tighten nuts finger-tight.
2. Tension Chain: Use side adjustment screw to raise bar tip, pulling chain snug against bar. Tighten clutch cover nuts securely. Chain should snap back when pulled from bar.
3. Fill Fluids: Add proper fuel/oil mix to fuel tank. Fill bar and chain oil reservoir with recommended oil.
4. Final Check: Ensure chain brake disengages freely. Test throttle trigger and lockout.

CAUTION! Do not operate with loose components. Always check chain tension before each use.

Specifications

• Engine: 42cc, 2-cycle, air-cooled.
• Power Output: [Model Specific] HP.
• Fuel: Gasoline & 2-cycle oil mix (50:1 ratio with synthetic oil). Use 89 octane or higher unleaded gasoline.
• Bar Oil: High-quality chainsaw bar oil (or SAE 30 weight motor oil as temporary substitute).
• Guide Bar: 16" or 18" Oregon® style (check model).
• Chain Pitch/Gauge: .325" pitch, .050" gauge (common). Refer to bar marking.
• Ignition: Electronic ignition.
• Weight: Approximately 10.5 lbs (without fluids).
• Sound Level: Exceeds 100 dBA. Hearing protection required.

Controls and Components

Familiarize yourself with all controls before starting.

Main Controls: On/Off Switch, Choke Lever, Throttle Trigger, Throttle Trigger Lockout, Chain Brake Lever (front handguard), Decompression Valve Button (if equipped), Primer Bulb.

Components: Rear Handle, Front Handle, Muffler, Spark Plug, Air Filter Cover, Fuel Tank Cap, Oil Tank Cap, Chain Tensioning Screw, Clutch Cover Nuts.

Operation: The lockout must be depressed before the throttle can be engaged. The chain brake stops the chain when engaged manually (by hand) or automatically by inertia.

Fuel & Oil

Using the correct fuel and oil mix is critical for engine life.

1. Fuel Mix: Use a 50:1 ratio of unleaded gasoline (89 octane minimum, ethanol-free recommended) to a high-quality 2-cycle engine oil certified for air-cooled engines (e.g., JASO FD, ISO-L-EGD). Mix in a clean, approved container.
2. Bar & Chain Oil: Fill the separate oil reservoir with chainsaw bar oil. Check level before each use. Oil flow is automatic; adjust rate via screw (if equipped) for dusty/dry conditions.
3. Storage: Never store fuel mix for more than 60 days. Use fuel stabilizer if storing longer.

WARNING! Never use straight gasoline or automotive motor oil in the fuel mix. This will cause severe engine damage. Do not mix fuels near open flame.

Starting & Operation

Follow these steps for cold and warm starts.

1. Pre-Start: Place saw on clear, level ground. Engage chain brake. Press decompression valve (if equipped).
2. Cold Start: Set On/Off switch to "I" (On). Pull choke lever fully out. Press primer bulb 5-10 times until fuel is visible. Pull starter rope briskly until engine 'pops'. Push choke lever halfway in. Pull starter rope again until engine starts. Let run for 10 seconds, then push choke fully in.
3. Warm Start: Switch on. Choke off. Pull starter rope.
4. Cutting: Disengage chain brake. Apply full throttle before contacting wood. Let the saw do the work; do not force. Avoid cutting with the tip.
5. Stopping: Release throttle, allow engine to idle. Move On/Off switch to "O" (Off).

CAUTION! Always start with chain brake engaged. Keep both hands on handles while engine is running.

Maintenance Schedule

Note: Maintenance frequency increases in dusty conditions.

Chain Sharpening

A sharp chain is safer and more efficient.

1. Secure the bar in a vise. Identify correct file size (typically 5/32" for .325" pitch).
2. Match file angle to existing cutter angle (usually 30°). Use a filing guide for consistency.
3. File each cutter from the inside out, using consistent pressure. Give each cutter the same number of strokes.
4. File depth gauges (rakers) with a flat file and gauge to maintain proper height (0.025" typical).
5. After sharpening, clean chain, re-tension, and lubricate.

Tip: Sharpen at first sign of dullness (saw produces fine dust instead of chips).

Storage

Proper storage prevents fuel system issues.

1. Drain all fuel from the tank and run the engine until it stops to clear carburetor.
2. Remove chain and bar, clean thoroughly, and coat with oil.
3. Clean entire saw, removing sawdust and debris.
4. Store in a dry, secure place, out of reach of children.

CAUTION! Never store with fuel in the tank for more than 30 days. Fuel degradation can damage carburetor.

Troubleshooting

Service: For repairs beyond basic maintenance, contact an authorized Craftsman service center. Always use genuine Craftsman parts.