Safety Instructions
Personal Protective Equipment:
- Safety glasses or face shield
- Work gloves
- Hard hat
- Hearing protection
- Steel-toed boots
Critical Safety Rules
- Inspect Before Use: Check pole saw for damage, loose parts, or wear before each use.
- Clear Work Area: Ensure area is clear of people, pets, and obstacles before starting.
- Check Overhead Hazards: Look for power lines, other trees, and structures before cutting.
- Proper Positioning: Maintain secure footing and balance while operating the pole saw.
- Cutting Technique: Use proper cutting motions - avoid forcing the saw or overreaching.
- Weather Conditions: Do not operate in wet conditions, high winds, or poor visibility.
- Storage: Store in dry place with blade covered when not in use.
Warning: Failure to follow safety instructions may result in serious injury or death. Always keep both hands on the pole saw during operation.
Assembly Guide
Tools Needed:
- Adjustable wrench
- Allen wrench set
- Screwdrivers (flat and Phillips)
- Lubricating oil
Step-by-Step Assembly
- Unpack Components: Remove all parts from packaging and verify all components are present.
- Assemble Pole Sections: Connect pole sections by aligning arrows and twisting until they lock securely.
- Attach Saw Head: Secure saw head to pole end using provided bolts and wrench.
- Install Cutting Blade: Mount cutting blade to saw head, ensuring teeth face forward.
- Connect Control Cable: Route control cable through pole sections and attach to handle mechanism.
- Adjust Tension: Adjust blade tension according to manufacturer specifications.
- Lubricate Moving Parts: Apply lubricating oil to all pivot points and moving mechanisms.
- Function Test: Test all controls and mechanisms before first use.
Specifications
| Model Series | CMPSP101 |
| Type | Manual Pole Pruner/Saw |
| Color | Orange/Black |
| Maximum Reach | 15 feet |
| Pole Material | Fiberglass Composite |
| Blade Length | 10 inches |
| Blade Material | High-Carbon Steel |
| Cutting Capacity | 2 inches diameter |
| Weight | 5.5 lbs |
| Extended Length | 180 inches |
| Collapsed Length | 60 inches |
| Warranty | Limited Lifetime |
Warranty Information
- Full Warranty: 1 year against defects in materials and workmanship
- Blade Warranty: 5 years on cutting blade
- Pole Warranty: 10 years on fiberglass pole
- Registration: Register product within 30 days for extended benefits
For warranty service, contact Craftsman Customer Service at 1-888-331-4569 or visit Craftsman.com
Operation Guide
Proper Positioning
Stand with feet shoulder-width apart, maintain firm grip with both hands, and keep pole saw at comfortable working angle.
Cutting Techniques
Use smooth, controlled strokes. For larger branches, make undercut first, then finish cut from above to prevent bark tearing.
Pole Adjustment
Extend pole sections only as needed for reach. More sections extended reduces cutting power and control.
Branch Selection
Cut branches at 45-degree angle away from main trunk. Never cut branches larger than specified capacity.
Cutting Sequence for Large Branches
Step 1: Undercut
Make initial cut 12-18 inches from trunk on underside of branch
Step 2: Top Cut
Cut from top, 2-3 inches further out from undercut
Step 3: Final Cut
Remove remaining stub at branch collar without damaging trunk
Maintenance
Regular Maintenance Schedule
| Frequency | Task | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Before Each Use | Blade Inspection | Check for nicks, dullness, or damage |
| Before Each Use | Pole Inspection | Check for cracks or damage to fiberglass |
| Monthly | Lubrication | Oil all moving parts and pivot points |
| Seasonally | Blade Sharpening | Sharpen blade with proper file |
| Annually | Complete Inspection | Disassemble and inspect all components |
| As Needed | Rope Replacement | Replace control rope if frayed or damaged |
Blade Sharpening Instructions
- Secure blade in vise with teeth facing up
- Use 8-inch mill bastard file
- File each tooth at original angle (typically 30 degrees)
- Maintain consistent pressure and stroke direction
- File all teeth equally to maintain balance
- Remove burrs with fine stone or emery cloth
Troubleshooting
| Problem | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Blade won't cut | Dull blade, improper tension, wrong cutting angle | Sharpen blade, adjust tension, change cutting position |
| Pole sections loose | Worn locking mechanism, dirt in connections | Clean connection points, replace worn parts |
| Control rope stiff | Dirt accumulation, lack of lubrication | Clean rope path, apply dry lubricant |
| Blade binds in cut | Cutting too large branch, improper technique | Use proper cutting sequence, don't force blade |
| Excessive vibration | Loose components, unbalanced blade | Tighten all bolts, check blade alignment |
| Difficulty extending pole | Dirt in sections, damaged locking pins | Clean sections thoroughly, replace pins if needed |
Common Issues and Solutions
- Blade Rust: Clean with steel wool, apply light oil coating for storage
- Stiff Pivot Points: Disassemble, clean, and lubricate with lightweight oil
- Frayed Control Rope: Replace immediately to prevent breakage during use
- Cracked Pole: Do not use - replace damaged section immediately
- Loose Handle: Tighten mounting bolts to specified torque
- Poor Cutting Performance: Sharpen blade and check tension adjustment
Manual Downloads
Current Model Manuals
CMPSP101
15ft Manual Pole Saw
CMPSP102
12ft Manual Pole Saw
CMPSP201
15ft Pro Pole Saw
CMPSP151
10ft Compact Pole Saw
Popular Previous Models
CMPSP100
14ft Standard Pole Saw
CMPSP090
12ft Economy Pole Saw
CMPSP200
16ft Professional Pole Saw
CMPSP085
8ft Pruning Pole Saw
Note: For models not listed here, please visit the Craftsman Support Website for complete documentation.