Craftsman S205 Chainsaw Manual

The Craftsman S205 is a powerful, lightweight chainsaw designed for homeowners and DIY enthusiasts. It features a gas-powered engine, automatic oiling system, safety chain brake, reduced vibration technology, and tool-free chain tensioning. Below are key sections for safety, features, assembly, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

Features at a Glance

Key components: Gas engine, guide bar, cutting chain, automatic oiler, chain brake, primer bulb, choke control, throttle trigger, and safety lock.

Safety Information

Read all instructions before use. Always wear protective gear.

1. Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): Safety glasses, hearing protection, gloves, chainsaw chaps, and sturdy boots.
2. Operating Area: Clear work area of obstacles and bystanders. Maintain secure footing.
3. Kickback Awareness: Hold saw firmly with both hands; do not cut with tip of bar.
4. Fuel Safety: Refuel in well-ventilated area with engine off and cool. Use proper fuel/oil mix.

WARNING! Chainsaws are dangerous. Failure to follow safety instructions can result in serious injury or death. Keep hands away from moving chain. Never operate while tired or under the influence.

Assembly & Setup

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

1. Attach Guide Bar & Chain: Place bar over studs, loop chain around bar in correct direction, adjust tension.
2. Fill Oil Reservoir: Use bar and chain oil; check for leaks.
3. Prepare Fuel Mix: Use 50:1 gasoline to 2-cycle oil ratio. Shake well before filling.
4. Check Controls: Ensure throttle trigger, safety lock, and chain brake function properly.

CAUTION! Ensure chain is properly tensioned—snug against bar but able to be pulled by hand. Overtightening can damage saw.

Specifications

• Model: Craftsman S205
• Engine Type: 2-cycle, air-cooled, single cylinder
• Displacement: 42 cc
• Power Output: 2.1 HP
• Fuel: Unleaded gasoline (87 octane min) with 2-cycle oil (50:1 mix)
• Bar Length: 16 inches
• Chain Speed: Approx. 55 ft/sec at max RPM
• Weight (dry): 10.1 lbs (4.6 kg)
• Sound Pressure Level: 105 dB(A) at operator's ear
• Vibration Level: Front handle: 4.5 m/s², Rear handle: 5.2 m/s²

Controls and Components

Main Controls: Front Handle, Rear Handle, Throttle Trigger, Safety Lock, Chain Brake Lever, Choke, Primer Bulb, Stop Switch.

Operation Sequence: Engage safety lock, set choke, press primer bulb 5-10 times, pull starter cord. Disengage choke as engine warms.

Chain Brake: Push forward to engage (stops chain), pull back to disengage. Test before each use.

Automatic Oiler: Adjusts oil flow based on engine speed. Manual override available via oiler button.

Operation Guide

Starting, Cutting, and Shutting Down Procedures.

1. Starting (Cold): Set on flat surface. Engage chain brake. Move choke to FULL, prime, pull starter until engine fires. Move choke to HALF, pull to start. Warm up for 30 seconds.
2. Starting (Warm): Choke OFF. Pull starter cord.
3. Cutting: Hold saw firmly. Let chain reach full speed before contact. Use lower part of bar. Do not force saw.
4. Shutting Down: Release throttle, allow engine to idle briefly, press STOP switch.

Tip: Plan cuts to avoid pinching bar. Use wedges for large logs.

Chain & Bar Maintenance

Regular maintenance ensures optimal performance and safety.

1. Chain Sharpening: Use round file and guide. Maintain correct filing angle (typically 30°). Sharpen when chips are dust-like.
2. Chain Tensioning: Check when cold. Adjust via side knob until chain snaps back when pulled from bar.
3. Bar Maintenance: Clean bar grooves, flip bar periodically for even wear.
4. Oiler Check: Ensure oil port is clear. Oil should discharge near bar tip when running at high idle.

WARNING! Always wear gloves when handling chain. Ensure saw is off and cool.

Engine Maintenance

Air Filter: Clean every 10 hours of use. Replace if damaged.

Spark Plug: Check gap (0.025 in / 0.63 mm). Clean or replace annually.

Fuel System: Use fresh fuel mix. Empty tank for storage over 30 days.

Carburetor Adjustment: Factory set. Only adjust if necessary using H (high) and L (low) screws.

Storage Guidelines

Long-term Storage (over 30 days):

1. Empty fuel tank and run engine until it stops.
2. Remove spark plug, add 1 tsp oil into cylinder, pull starter slowly 2-3 times, reinstall plug.
3. Clean entire saw, especially air filter and cooling fins.
4. Loosen chain tension. Store in dry, cool place.

CAUTION! Never store with fuel in tank. Fuel can degrade and damage engine components.

Warranty Information

Craftsman S205 includes a 2-year limited warranty covering defects in materials and workmanship. Proof of purchase required. Warranty does not cover normal wear, misuse, improper maintenance, or use of non-genuine parts. For warranty service, contact Craftsman Customer Support at 1-888-331-4569 or visit www.craftsman.com.

Troubleshooting

Service: For repairs, use authorized service centers. User-serviceable parts limited to air filter, spark plug, and chain/bar assembly.

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