Craftsman S145 Chainsaw Manual

The Craftsman S145 is a gas-powered chainsaw designed for homeowners and DIY enthusiasts. It features a 45cc 2-stroke engine, an 18-inch Oregon bar and chain, automatic oiling system, inertia-activated chain brake, easy-start technology, and anti-vibration handles. Below are key sections for safety, features, assembly, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

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

Features at a Glance

Key components: 45cc 2-stroke engine, 18-inch guide bar, automatic chain oiler, inertia-activated chain brake, decompression valve, anti-vibration system, tool-free chain tensioning.

FeatureDescription
Engine45cc 2-stroke gasoline engine
Guide Bar Length18 inches (Oregon bar)
Chain.325-inch pitch, 72 drive links
Automatic OilerLubricates chain during operation
Chain BrakeInertia-activated for kickback protection
Starting SystemEasy-start technology with decompression valve
Anti-VibrationReduced vibration handles
Chain TensioningTool-free side adjustment
Weight12.5 lbs (without fuel)
Fuel Capacity14.9 fl oz (440 ml)

Safety Information

Always wear protective gear: safety glasses, hearing protection, gloves, chainsaw chaps, and steel-toe boots.

  1. Inspect chainsaw before each use: Check chain tension, sharpness, and lubrication.
  2. Clear work area: Remove tripping hazards and ensure bystanders are at a safe distance.
  3. Hold firmly: Use both hands, right on rear handle, left on front handle.
  4. Avoid kickback: Do not cut with tip of bar; be aware of pinch points.

WARNING! Chainsaws are dangerous. Read entire manual before use. Never operate when tired or under the influence.

Assembly & Setup

Unpack and inspect contents. Assemble bar and chain.

  1. Attach guide bar: Place bar over studs, align chain with sprocket, adjust tension.
  2. Install chain: Ensure cutting teeth face forward on top of bar.
  3. Fill oil reservoir: Use bar and chain oil (not motor oil).
  4. Mix fuel: Use 50:1 gas/oil mix (2.6 oz oil per gallon of fresh unleaded gasoline).
  5. Prime engine: Press primer bulb 5-10 times until fuel is visible.

CAUTION! Ensure chain brake is engaged during assembly. Keep hands away from sharp chain.

Specifications

Controls and Components

Main components: Front handle with chain brake, rear handle with throttle trigger, throttle lockout, choke control, primer bulb, decompression valve, master control lever (choke/run/stop).

Controls: Throttle trigger (right), throttle lockout (must be pressed to engage throttle), chain brake lever (front), choke lever, stop switch.

Operation: Set master control to choke for cold start, run for operation, stop to shut off. Engage chain brake by pushing forward on front guard.

Fuel & Oil

Use fresh unleaded gasoline (89 octane or higher) mixed with 2-cycle engine oil at 50:1 ratio.

  1. Mix fuel in approved container: Add oil to gas, shake well.
  2. Fill fuel tank: Use funnel to avoid spills.
  3. Fill oil reservoir: Use bar and chain oil; check level frequently.
  4. Dispose of fuel properly: Do not store mixed fuel over 30 days.

Tip: Always clean area around fuel cap before opening to prevent contamination.

Starting & Operation

Starting procedure (cold engine):

  1. Engage chain brake by pushing forward on front guard.
  2. Set master control lever to choke position.
  3. Press primer bulb 5-10 times until fuel is visible.
  4. Pull starter rope briskly until engine fires (1-3 pulls).
  5. Move master control to run position.
  6. Pull starter rope until engine starts.
  7. Disengage chain brake by pulling back on front guard.
  8. Squeeze throttle to begin cutting.

WARNING! Always engage chain brake when starting or carrying saw. Keep firm grip during operation.

Chain Maintenance

Chain tension: Should be snug but pull freely by hand. Adjust when cool using tool-free tensioner.

  1. Loosen bar nuts with combination wrench.
  2. Turn tensioning screw clockwise to tighten, counterclockwise to loosen.
  3. Lift tip of bar to take up slack, then tighten bar nuts.
  4. Check tension frequently during first hour of use.

Sharpening: Use round file (5/32 inch) and file guide. Maintain 30-degree cutting angle. Replace chain when teeth are worn or damaged.

Storage & Care

Long-term storage: Empty fuel tank, run engine until it stops. Remove chain, clean entire saw, store in dry place.

CAUTION! Never store with fuel in tank for more than 30 days. Fuel can deteriorate and damage engine.

Warranty Information

Craftsman S145 chainsaw comes with 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 service at 1-888-331-4569 or visit www.craftsman.com. Keep original receipt as proof of purchase.

Troubleshooting

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
Engine won't startOld fuel, no spark, floodedUse fresh fuel mix; check spark plug; wait if flooded.
Engine runs then diesClogged fuel filter, ventReplace fuel filter; check tank vent.
Chain doesn't turnBrake engaged, clutch wornDisengage chain brake; inspect clutch.
Chain throws oilOver-oilingAdjust oil flow rate (screw near oil cap).
Poor cutting performanceDull chain, wrong tensionSharpen chain; adjust tension.
Excessive vibrationLoose components, damaged barTighten all nuts/bolts; inspect bar for wear.

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

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