Sears Craftsman Chainsaw Owners Manual

User Manual & Safety Guide

Gas & Electric Models

Installation Guide

Tools Needed:

  • Socket wrench set
  • Screwdrivers (flat and Phillips)
  • Chain tension adjustment tool
  • Bar and chain oil
  • Fuel mix container (for gas models)

Step-by-Step Assembly

  1. Unpack and Inspect: Remove all packaging materials and inspect components for damage during shipping.
  2. Handle Assembly: Attach front and rear handles according to model specifications using provided hardware.
  3. Bar and Chain Installation: Install guide bar and chain, ensuring proper orientation and tension.
  4. Chain Tension Adjustment: Adjust chain tension to manufacturer specifications (typically 1/4 inch play at center of bar).
  5. Fluid Fill: Fill bar and chain oil reservoir and fuel tank (gas models) with appropriate fluids.
  6. Safety Check: Verify chain brake operation, throttle lockout, and all safety features function properly.
  7. Initial Start-up: Follow starting procedure for your model type (gas or electric).
Warning: Always wear appropriate safety gear including eye protection, hearing protection, gloves, and chainsaw chaps during assembly and operation.

Specifications

Model Series CMCS Series
Type Gasoline & Electric Chainsaws
Engine Type 2-Stroke (Gas) / Brushed Motor (Electric)
Displacement (Gas) 42cc - 62cc
Power (Electric) 14 Amp - 15 Amp
Guide Bar Length 16" - 20"
Chain Pitch 3/8" Low Profile
Chain Gauge .050"
Fuel Capacity 14 oz. (Gas Models)
Oil Capacity 8.5 oz.
Weight 10.5 - 15.5 lbs
Sound Level 105 dB (Gas) / 95 dB (Electric)

Warranty Information

  • Full Warranty: 2 years limited warranty
  • Engine Warranty: 5 years on gas engine components
  • Additional Coverage: Available through Sears Protection Plans

For warranty service, contact Craftsman Customer Service at 1-888-331-4569 or visit Craftsman.com

Key Features

Anti-Vibration System

Advanced anti-vibration system reduces user fatigue by minimizing vibrations transferred to the operator's hands during extended use.

Automatic Oiling System

Built-in automatic chain oiler delivers consistent lubrication to the bar and chain, extending component life and ensuring smooth cutting.

Chain Brake System

Inertia-activated chain brake stops the chain within milliseconds if kickback occurs, providing crucial operator protection.

Easy Start Technology

Reduced effort starting system (gas models) requires less pull force, making starting easier and more reliable in all conditions.

Tool-Free Chain Tensioning

Quick-adjust side knob allows for chain tension adjustments without additional tools, maintaining optimal cutting performance.

Air Filtration System

Dual-stage air filtration (gas models) extends engine life by preventing dust and debris from entering the combustion chamber.

Safety Features Explained

Chain Brake

Manual and inertia-activated protection against kickback incidents

Throttle Lockout

Prevents accidental throttle engagement during starting and carrying

Right Hand Guard

Protects right hand from chain contact during operation

Chain Catcher

Prevents broken chain from striking the operator

Spark Arrestor

Prevents emission of burning carbon particles (gas models)

Low-Kickback Chain

Reduced kickback potential for safer operation

Troubleshooting

Problem Possible Cause Solution
Engine won't start Old fuel, clogged filter, spark plug issue Use fresh fuel mix, clean/replace filter, check spark plug
Chain won't turn Chain brake engaged, clutch issue, chain tension too tight Disengage chain brake, check clutch, adjust chain tension
Poor cutting performance Dull chain, improper filing, insufficient oil Sharpen chain, check filing angles, fill oil reservoir
Excessive vibration Unbalanced chain, loose components, worn dampeners Balance chain, tighten components, replace dampeners
Chain throws oil Overfilled oil tank, incorrect oil viscosity Adjust oil flow, use recommended bar and chain oil
Engine stalls under load Clogged carburetor, fuel line issue, air filter blocked Clean carburetor, check fuel lines, clean/replace air filter

Maintenance Schedule

  • Before Each Use: Check chain tension, sharpness, and lubrication
  • Weekly: Clean air filter, check spark plug, inspect bar for wear
  • Monthly: Clean cooling fins, check fuel lines, inspect clutch
  • Seasonally: Replace spark plug, clean carburetor, check all safety features
  • Annually: Professional tune-up, compression test, complete safety inspection
  • Storage: Drain fuel (gas models), clean thoroughly, store in dry location

Manual Downloads

Current Model Manuals

CMCS620

62cc Gas Chainsaw 20" Bar

CMCS500

50cc Gas Chainsaw 18" Bar

CMCS420

42cc Gas Chainsaw 16" Bar

CMXE4016

15 Amp Electric Chainsaw 16" Bar

Popular Previous Models

358.352340

55cc Gas Chainsaw 18" Bar

358.351660

46cc Gas Chainsaw 16" Bar

CMXE3000

14 Amp Electric Chainsaw 14" Bar

316.352220

38cc Gas Chainsaw 14" Bar

Note: For models not listed here, please visit the Craftsman Support Website for complete documentation.