Craftsman Chainsaw 18 42cc Parts Manual

The Craftsman Chainsaw 18 42cc is a powerful gas-powered chainsaw designed for demanding cutting tasks. This manual provides detailed parts identification, assembly instructions, maintenance procedures, and safety guidelines for the model equipped with an 18-inch bar and a 42cc engine. Below are key sections covering parts diagrams, replacement procedures, specifications, and troubleshooting.

1. Parts Overview & Diagrams 2. Assembly Instructions 3. Maintenance Procedures 4. Technical Specifications 5. Safety Features & Operation 6. Chain & Bar Maintenance 7. Engine Care & Tuning 8. Troubleshooting Guide 9. Parts Replacement Ordering 10. Warranty Information

Parts Overview & Diagrams

Key components: 42cc 2-Cycle Engine, 18-Inch Guide Bar, Oregon® Chain, Anti-Vibration System, Chain Brake, Automatic Oiler, Primer Bulb, Throttle Lockout, Choke Control.

Part Name	Part Number	Description
Engine Assembly	CM-42E-001	Complete 42cc 2-cycle power unit
Guide Bar (18")	GB-18-OR-01	Oregon® laminated sprocket nose bar
Saw Chain (3/8" LP)	SC-72LP-56	72 Drive Links, Low Profile
Chain Brake Assembly	CB-FRONT-01	Front hand guard with brake mechanism
Clutch Assembly	CL-CENT-42	Centrifugal clutch drum and springs
Air Filter	AF-FOAM-42	Dual-stage foam filter element
Spark Plug	SP-RJ19LM	Champion® RJ19LM, gap 0.025"
Fuel Cap Assembly	FC-VENT-01	Vented fuel tank cap
Recoil Starter	RS-PULL-42	Pull-start recoil assembly with rope
Chain Tensioner	CT-SCREW-01	Side-mounted tensioning screw

Assembly Instructions

Unpack all components and inspect for damage. Assembly requires basic tools (screwdriver, wrench).

Attach Guide Bar & Chain: Place bar over studs, loop chain over sprocket, align with bar groove, install clutch cover and tighten nuts finger-tight.
Adjust Chain Tension: Use side tension screw to achieve proper tension (chain should snap back when pulled from bar).
Install Handle: Secure front and rear handle sections with provided bolts. Ensure anti-vibration mounts are seated.
Add Bar & Chain Oil: Fill oil reservoir with recommended bar & chain oil.
Fuel Mix Preparation: Mix fresh 2-cycle oil with unleaded gasoline (50:1 ratio). Fill fuel tank.

WARNING! Always wear cut-resistant gloves during assembly. Ensure chain brake is disengaged before tensioning.

Maintenance Procedures

Regular maintenance ensures optimal performance and longevity.

Daily: Check chain tension, sharpness, and lubrication. Inspect for loose fasteners.
Weekly: Clean air filter, check spark plug condition, clean cooling fins.
Monthly: Clean fuel filter, inspect fuel lines, check clutch and sprocket wear.
Seasonally: Replace spark plug, clean carburetor (if needed), store with empty fuel tank.

CAUTION! Disconnect spark plug wire before performing any maintenance. Allow engine to cool completely.

Technical Specifications

Engine Displacement: 42cc (2.6 cu. in.) 2-Cycle.
Bar Length: 18 inches (45 cm).
Chain Pitch/Gauge: 3/8" Low Profile / .050".
Power Output: 2.2 HP @ 9000 RPM.
Fuel Capacity: 14.2 fl oz (420 ml).
Oil Capacity: 8.5 fl oz (250 ml).
Weight (Powerhead): 10.8 lbs (4.9 kg).
Sound Power Level: 112 dB(A).
Vibration Level: Front Handle: 4.2 m/s², Rear Handle: 5.1 m/s².

Safety Features & Operation

Key safety components: Chain Brake (inertia-activated), Throttle Lockout, Right-Hand Guard, Chain Catcher, Anti-Vibration System.

Starting Procedure: 1. Engage chain brake. 2. Set ON/OFF switch to ON. 3. Pull choke. 4. Press primer bulb 5 times. 5. Place on ground, hold rear handle with foot. 6. Pull starter rope until engine fires. 7. Disengage choke. 8. Pull again to start.

Operating: Always use two hands. Maintain firm footing. Keep bystanders away. Do not cut above shoulder height.

Chain & Bar Maintenance

Proper chain care is critical for performance and safety.

Sharpening: Use round file (5/32") at 30° angle. File each cutter evenly.
Tensioning: Chain should be snug against bar but pull freely. Adjust when cool.
Lubrication: Always run with oiler engaged. Check oil flow before each use.
Bar Maintenance: Clean bar groove weekly. Flip bar monthly for even wear.
Depth Gauge Setting: Maintain 0.025" below cutter top plate.

Tip: A dull chain increases kickback risk and reduces cutting efficiency.

Engine Care & Tuning

For 2-cycle engine longevity and performance.

Fuel: Use fresh 89+ octane gasoline mixed with 2-cycle oil (50:1). Do not use ethanol blends >10%.
Air Filter: Clean with warm soapy water, dry completely, apply light oil before reinstalling.
Carburetor Adjustment: Factory set. Only adjust if experiencing performance issues (consult dealer).
Spark Plug: Replace annually or every 50 hours. Gap to 0.025".
Storage: Run dry or add fuel stabilizer. Store in dry place.

WARNING! Never run engine without proper lubrication. Always use proper fuel/oil mix.

Troubleshooting Guide

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
Engine won't start	Old fuel, flooded, no spark	Use fresh fuel mix; wait 15 min if flooded; check spark plug.
Engine runs then dies	Clogged fuel filter, dirty air filter	Replace fuel filter; clean air filter.
Chain doesn't turn	Clutch worn, chain brake engaged	Inspect clutch shoes; disengage chain brake.
Excessive vibration	Loose fasteners, unbalanced chain	Tighten all bolts; sharpen chain evenly.
Chain throws oil	Over-oiling, wrong oil viscosity	Adjust oiler screw; use proper bar & chain oil.
Poor cutting performance	Dull chain, improper tension	Sharpen chain; adjust tension.

Reset: For safety systems, ensure chain brake is fully disengaged.

Parts Replacement Ordering

Genuine Craftsman parts ensure compatibility and safety.

When ordering parts, provide model number (e.g., 358.352450) and serial number. Common replacement parts: chains, bars, sprockets, air filters, spark plugs, clutch assemblies. Visit www.craftsman.com/parts or contact authorized service center.

Warranty Information

Craftsman 18" 42cc Chainsaw includes a 2-year limited warranty covering defects in materials and workmanship. Warranty does not cover normal wear items (chains, bars, spark plugs), damage from misuse, improper maintenance, or commercial use. Proof of purchase required. For warranty service, contact 1-888-331-4569 or visit www.craftsman.com/warranty.