Craftsman S165 Chainsaw Manual

The Craftsman S165 is a 16-inch gas-powered chainsaw designed for homeowners and DIY enthusiasts. It features a 42cc 2-cycle engine, automatic oiler, tool-free chain tensioning, inertia-activated chain brake, and a low-kickback bar and chain. Below are key sections for safety, features, assembly, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

Features at a Glance

Key components: 42cc 2-cycle engine, 16-inch guide bar, automatic chain oiler, inertia-activated chain brake, tool-free chain tensioner, and anti-vibration handles.

Safety Information

Read all instructions before use. Always wear protective gear.

1. Personal Protective Equipment: Wear safety glasses, hearing protection, gloves, chainsaw chaps, and sturdy boots.
2. Operating Area: Keep bystanders and pets at least 15 feet away.
3. Kickback Awareness: Be aware of kickback zone; never cut with tip of bar.
4. Chain Brake: Test before each use; ensure it engages properly.

WARNING! Gasoline is flammable; refuel in well-ventilated area with engine off and cool. Never operate chainsaw with damaged or loose parts.

Assembly & Setup

Unpack and inspect contents. Assemble on clean, flat surface.

1. Attach guide bar and chain: Place chain over sprocket, align bar with mounting studs, tighten nuts finger-tight.
2. Tension chain: Use tool-free tensioner to adjust until chain snaps back when pulled from bar.
3. Fill oil reservoir: Use recommended bar and chain oil.
4. Mix fuel: Use fresh unleaded gasoline (87 octane minimum) with 2-cycle oil at 40:1 ratio.
5. Prime and start: Press primer bulb 5-10 times, set choke, pull starter cord.

CAUTION! Ensure chain is properly tensioned before operation to prevent derailment.

Specifications

• Engine Type: 42cc 2-cycle air-cooled.
• Bar Length: 16 inches.
• Chain Pitch: 3/8 inch low-profile.
• Chain Gauge: 0.050 inch.
• Fuel Mix Ratio: 40:1 (gasoline to 2-cycle oil).
• Ignition: Electronic.
• Sound Rating: 105 dB(A) at operator's ear.
• Vibration Level: Less than 2.5 m/s².
• Warranty: 2-year limited warranty.

Controls and Components

Main components: Throttle trigger, throttle trigger lockout, choke control, primer bulb, stop switch, chain brake handle, front hand guard, rear handle, fuel cap, oil cap.

Operation Controls: Throttle trigger (for speed), throttle lockout (must be pressed to engage throttle), choke (for cold starts), primer bulb (draws fuel into carburetor), stop switch (stops engine).

Safety Features: Chain brake (stops chain rotation if activated), front hand guard (protects from debris), right-hand guard (protects from chain).

Fuel & Oil

Use fresh unleaded gasoline (87 octane minimum) mixed with high-quality 2-cycle engine oil at 40:1 ratio.

1. Mix fuel in approved container: Add oil to gasoline, shake well.
2. Fill fuel tank: Clean area around cap, fill to indicated line.
3. Fill oil reservoir: Use recommended bar and chain oil only.
4. Check oil flow: Run chainsaw briefly over light-colored surface to see oil splatter.

Tip: Never use automotive motor oil or old gasoline. Store mixed fuel no longer than 30 days.

Operation

Starting procedure and cutting techniques.

1. Starting: Place on flat surface, engage chain brake, set choke to full, press primer 5-10 times, pull starter cord until engine fires, move choke to half, pull until starts, then disengage chain brake.
2. Cutting: Use proper stance, hold firmly with both hands, let chain do the work, avoid pinching bar.
3. Kickback Prevention: Never cut with upper tip of bar; be aware of wood tension.
4. Shutting Down: Release throttle, press stop switch.

WARNING! Always operate with both hands. Never cut above shoulder height. Watch for falling branches.

Chain Maintenance

Regular maintenance ensures optimal performance and safety.

1. Chain Sharpening: Use round file matching chain pitch; maintain 30° cutting angle.
2. Depth Gauge Setting: File depth gauges to proper height (0.025 inch).
3. Chain Tension: Check frequently; adjust when chain sags from bar.
4. Bar Maintenance: Clean bar groove, flip bar regularly for even wear.
5. Sprocket Inspection: Replace if worn to prevent chain damage.

CAUTION! Wear gloves when handling chain. Ensure chainsaw is off and cool before maintenance.

Storage

Proper storage prolongs chainsaw life.

1. Short-term: Clean exterior, empty fuel tank, run engine until it stops to clear carburetor.
2. Long-term: Remove spark plug, add teaspoon of oil to cylinder, pull starter slowly to distribute, store in dry place.
3. Chain: Remove, clean, and soak in oil before storage.

CAUTION! Store fuel in approved container away from heat sources and living areas.

Warranty Information

Craftsman S165 comes with a 2-year limited warranty covering defects in materials and workmanship. Warranty does not cover normal wear, misuse, improper maintenance, or commercial use. 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

Service: For repairs not covered under warranty, contact authorized Craftsman service center.

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