Operator’s Manual

CHAIN SAW
INSTRUCTION MANUAL

CATALOG NUMBER
CMECS600

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REASON.
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VEA EL ESPANOL EN LA CONTRAPORTADA. INSTRUCTIVO DE OPERACIÓN, CENTROS DE SERVICIO Y PÓLIZA DE
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KEY INFORMATION YOU SHOULD KNOW:

READ INSTRUCTIONS THOROUGHLY
BEFORE OPERATING!
• DO NOT OVER-TENSION CHAIN. Refer to “Adjusting Chain
Tension” for proper method of tensioning chain.
• Retighten chain frequently during first two hours of use.

To register your new product, visit

www.craftsman.com/registration
SAFETY GUIDELINES - DEFINITIONS
It is important for you to read and understand this manual. The information it contains
relates to protecting YOUR SAFETY and PREVENTING PROBLEMS. The symbols below
are used to help you recognize this information.
DANGER: Indicates an imminently hazardous situation which, if not avoided,
will result in death or serious injury.
WARNING: Indicates a potentially hazardous situation which, if not avoided, could
result in death or serious injury.
CAUTION: Indicates a potentially haz­ard­ous situation which, if not avoided, may
result in minor or mod­er­ate injury.
NOTICE: Used without the safety alert symbol indicates potentially hazardous situation
which, if not avoided, may result in property damage.

GENERAL POWER TOOL outdoors, use an extension cord

SAFETY +RULES suitable for outdoor use. Use of a
cord suitable for outdoor use reduces
WARNING: Read all safety the risk of electric shock.
warnings and all instructions. Failure to f) If operating a power tool in a damp
follow the warnings and instructions may result location is unavoidable, use a
in electric shock, fire and/or serious injury. ground fault circuit interrupter
SAVE ALL WARNINGS AND (GFCI) protected supply. Use of a
GFCI reduces the risk of electric shock.
INSTRUCTIONS FOR FUTURE 3) PERSONAL SAFETY
REFERENCE a) Stay alert, watch what you are
The term “power tool” in the warnings refers doing and use common sense
to your mains-operated (corded) power tool when operating a power tool. Do
or battery-operated (cordless) power tool. not use a power tool while you
1) WORK AREA SAFETY are tired or under the influence of
a) Keep work area clean and well drugs, alcohol or medication. A
lit. Cluttered or dark areas invite moment of inattention while operating
accidents. power tools may result in serious
b) Do not operate power tools in explosive personal injury.
atmospheres, such as in the presence b) Use personal protective equipment.
of flammable liquids, gases or dust. Always wear eye protection.
Power tools create sparks which may ignite Protective equipment such as dust
the dust or fumes. mask, nonskid safety shoes, hard
c) Keep children and bystanders hat, or hearing protection used for
away while operating a power tool. appropriate conditions will reduce
Distractions can cause you to lose control. personal injuries.
2) ELECTRICAL SAFETY c) Prevent unintentional starting.
a) Power tool plugs must match the Ensure the switch is in the off
outlet. Never modify the plug in any position before connecting to power
way. Do not use any adapter plugs source and/ or battery pack, picking
with earthed (grounded) power up or carrying the tool. Carrying
tools. Unmodified plugs and matching power tools with your finger on the
outlets will reduce risk of electric shock. switch or energizing power tools that
b) Avoid body contact with earthed or have the switch on invites accidents.
grounded surfaces such as pipes, d) Remove any adjusting key or
radiators, ranges and refrigerators. wrench before turning the power
There is an increased risk of electric tool on. A wrench or a key left attached
shock if your body is earthed or to a rotating part of the power tool may
grounded. result in personal injury.
c) Do not expose power tools to rain e) Do not overreach. Keep proper
or wet conditions. Water entering footing and balance at all times.
a power tool will increase the risk of This enables better control of the
electric shock. power tool in unexpected situations.
d) Do not abuse the cord. Never use f) Dress properly. Do not wear loose
the cord for carrying, pulling or clothing or jewelry. Keep your hair,
unplugging the power tool. Keep clothing and gloves away from moving
cord away from heat, oil, sharp parts. Loose clothes, jewelry or long hair
edges or moving parts. Damaged can be caught in moving parts.
or entangled cords increase the risk of g) If devices are provided for the
electric shock. connection of dust extraction and
e) When operating a power tool collection facilities, ensure these
2
 are connected and properly used. • Always hold the chainsaw with your
Use of dust collection can reduce dust- right hand on the rear handle and
related hazards. your left hand on the front handle.
4) POWER TOOL USE AND CARE Holding the chainsaw with a reversed hand
a) Do not force the power tool. Use configuration increases the risk of personal
the correct power tool for your injury and should never be done.
application. The correct power tool • Hold the power tool by insulated
will do the job better and safer at the gripping surfaces only, because the
rate for which it was designed. saw chain may contact hidden wiring
b) Do not use the power tool if the or its own cord. Saw chains contacting a
switch does not turn it on and “live” wire may make exposed metal parts
off. Any power tool that cannot be of the power tool “live” and could give the
controlled with the switch is dangerous operator an electric shock.
and must be repaired. • Wear safety glasses and hearing
c) Disconnect the plug from the protection. Further protective
power source and/or the battery
pack from the power tool before equipment for head, hands, legs
making any adjustments, changing and feet is recommended. Adequate
accessories, or storing power protective clothing will reduce personal
tools. Such preventive safety injury by flying debris or accidental contact
measures reduce the risk of starting with the saw chain.
the power tool accidentally. • Do not operate a chainsaw in a tree.
d) Store idle power tools out of Operation of a chainsaw while up in a tree
the reach of children and do not may result in personal injury.
allow persons unfamiliar with the • Always keep proper footing and
power tool or these instructions operate the chainsaw only when
to operate the power tool. Power standing on fixed, secure and level
tools are dangerous in the hands of surface. Slippery or unstable surfaces
untrained users. such as ladders may cause a loss of
e) Maintain power tools. Check for balance or control of the chainsaw.
misalignment or binding of moving • When cutting a limb that is under
parts, breakage of parts and any tension be alert for spring back. When
other condition that may affect the the tension in the wood fibres is released
power tool’s operation. If damaged, the spring loaded limb may strike the
have the power tool repaired operator and/or throw the chainsaw out of
before use. Many accidents are control.
caused by poorly maintained power • Use extreme caution when cutting
tools. brush and saplings. The slender material
f) Keep cutting tools sharp and clean. may catch the saw chain and be whipped
Properly maintained cutting tools with toward you or pull you off balance.
sharp cutting edges are less likely to • Carry the chainsaw by the front
bind and are easier to control. handle with the chainsaw switched
g) Use the power tool, accessories off and away from your body. When
and tool bits, etc. in accordance transporting or storing the chainsaw
with these instructions, taking into always fit the scabbard. Proper handling
account the working conditions
and the work to be performed. of the chainsaw will reduce the likelihood
Use of the power tool for operations of accidental contact with the moving saw
different from those intended could chain.
result in a hazardous situation. • Follow instructions for lubricating,
5) SERVICE chain tensioning and changing
a) Have your power tool serviced by accessories. Improperly tensioned or
a qualified repair person using only lubricated chain may either break or
identical replacement parts. This will increase the chance for kickback.
ensure that the safety of the power tool • Keep handles dry, clean, and free
is maintained. from oil and grease. Greasy, oily handles
are slippery causing loss of control.
READ ALL INSTRUCTIONS • Cut wood only. Do not use chainsaw
CHAINSAW SAFETY WARNINGS: for purposes not intended. For
• Keep all parts of the body away from example: do not use chainsaw for
the saw chain when the chainsaw cutting plastic, masonry or non-wood
is operating. Before you start the building materials. Use of the chainsaw
chainsaw, make sure the saw chain is for operations different than intended
not contacting anything. A moment of could result in a hazardous situation.
inattention while operating chainsaws may
cause entanglement of your clothing or CAUSES AND OPERATOR
body with the saw chain. PREVENTION OF KICKBACK:
3
Kickback may occur when the nose or tip chain and reduced kickback guide bars that
of the guide bar touches an object, or when reduce the risks associated with kickback.
the wood closes in and pinches the saw (7.) Only use replacement bars and chains
chain in the cut. specified by the manufacturer or the
Tip contact in some cases may cause a equivalent.
sudden reverse reaction, kicking the guide (8.) Never let the moving chain contact any
bar up and back towards the operator. object at the tip of the guide bar.
Pinching the saw chain along the top of the (9.) Keep the working area free from
guide bar may push the guide bar rapidly obstructions such as other trees, branches,
back towards the operator. rocks, fences, stumps, etc. Eliminate or
Either of these reactions may cause you avoid any obstruction that your saw chain
to lose control of the saw which could could hit while you are cutting through a
result in serious personal injury. Do not rely particular log or branch.
exclusively upon the safety devices built into (10.) Keep your saw chain sharp and
your saw. As a chainsaw user, you should properly tensioned. A loose or dull chain
take several steps to keep your cutting jobs can increase the chance of kickback. Check
free from accident or injury. tension at regular intervals with the motor
Kickback is the result of tool misuse and/or stopped and tool unpllugged, never with the
incorrect operating procedures or conditions motor running.
and can be avoided by taking proper (11.) Begin and continue cutting only with
precautions as given below: the chain moving at full speed. If the chain is
• Maintain a firm grip, with thumbs moving at a slower speed, there is a greater
and fingers encircling the chainsaw chance for kickback to occur.
handles, with both hands on the saw (12.) Cut one log at a time.
and position your body and arm to (13.) Use extreme caution when re-entering
allow you to resist kickback forces. a previous cut. Engage ribbed bumpers into
Kickback forces can be controlled by the wood and allow chain to reach full speed
before proceeding with cut.
operator, if proper precautions are taken. (14.) Do not attempt plunge cuts or bore
Do not let go of the chainsaw. cuts.
• Do not overreach and do not cut (15.) Watch for shifting logs or other forces
above shoulder height. This helps that could close a cut and pinch or fall into
prevent unintended tip contact and chain.
enables better control of the chainsaw in
unexpected situations. KICKBACK SAFETY
• Only use replacement bars and
chains specified by the manufacturer. FEATURES
Incorrect replacement bars and chains WARNING: The following features are
may cause chain breakage and/or included on your saw to help reduce the
kickback. hazard of kickback; however such features
• Follow the manufacturer’s sharpening will not totally eliminate this dangerous
and maintenance instructions for the reaction. As a chainsaw user do not rely only
saw chain. Decreasing the depth gauge on safety devices. You must follow all safety
height can lead to increased kickback. precautions, instructions, and maintenance in
this manual to help avoid kickback and other
THE FOLLOWING forces which can result in serious injury.
• Reduced-Kickback Guide Bar,
PRECAUTIONS SHOULD BE designed with a small radius tip which
FOLLOWED TO MINIMIZE reduces the size of the kickback danger
KICKBACK: zone on bar tip. A reduced - kickback
guide bar is one which has been
(1.) Grip Saw Firmly. Hold the chainsaw
firmly with both hands when the motor is demonstrated to significantly reduce the
running. Use a firm grip with thumbs and number and seriousness of kickbacks
fingers encircling the chainsaw handles. when tested in accordance with safety
requirements for electric chainsaws.
Chainsaw will pull forward when cutting • Low-Kickback Chain, designed with a
on the bottom edge of the bar, and push contoured depth gauge and guard link
backward when cutting along the top edge which deflect kickback force and allow
of the bar. wood to gradually ride into the cutter. A
(2.) Do not over reach. low-kickback chain is a chain which has
(3.) Keep proper footing and balance at all met kickback performance requirements of
times. ANSI B175.1-1991.
(4.) Don’t let the nose of the guide bar • Do not operate chainsaw while in a
contact a log, branch, ground or other tree, on a ladder, on a scaffold, or
obstruction. from any unstable surface.
(5.) Don’t cut above shoulder height. • Hold tool by insulated gripping
(6.) Use devices such as low kickback surfaces when performing an
4
 operation where the cutting tool may wire size (AWG or American Wire Gauge)
contact hidden wiring. Contact with a for safety. The smaller the gauge number
“live” wire will make exposed metal parts of the wire, the greater the capacity of the
of the tool “live” and shock the operator. cable, that is 16 gauge has more capacity
• Do not attempt operations beyond than 18 gauge. When using more than one
your capacity or experience. Read extension to make up the total length, be sure
thoroughly and understand completely all Minimum Gauge for Cord Sets
instructions in this manual. Volts Total Length of Cord in Feet
• Before you start chainsaw, make sure 120V 0-25 26-50 51-100 101-150
saw chain is not contacting any object. 240V 0-50 51-100 101-200 201-300
• Do not operate a chainsaw with one Ampere Rating
hand! Serious injury to the operator, More Not more American Wire Gauge
helpers, or bystanders may result from Than Than
one handed operation. A chainsaw is 0 - 6 18 16 16 14
intended for two-handed use only. 6 - 10 18 16 14 12
• Keep the handles dry, clean, and free 10 - 12 16 16 14 12
of oil or grease. 12 - 16 14 12 Not Recommended
• Do not allow dirt, debris, or sawdust
to build up on the motor or outside air each individual extension contains at least the
vents. minimum wire size.
• Stop the chainsaw before setting it Recommended Minimum Wire Size for
down. Extension Cords
• Do not cut vines and/or small under
brush. CHAINSAW NAMES AND
• Use extreme caution when cutting TERMS
small size brush and saplings because • Bucking - The process of cross cutting a
slender material may catch the saw chain felled tree or log into lengths.
and be whipped toward you or pull you off • Motor Brake - A device used to stop the
balance. saw chain when the trigger is released.
WARNING: Some dust created by • Chainsaw Powerhead - A chainsaw
power sanding, sawing, grinding, drilling, and without the saw chain and guide bar.
other construction activities contains • Drive Sprocket or Sprocket - The
chemicals known to the State of California to toothed part that drives the saw chain.
cause cancer, birth defects or other • Felling - The process of cutting down a
reproductive harm. Some examples of these tree.
chemicals are: • Felling Back Cut - The final cut in a tree
• lead from lead-based paints, felling operation made on the opposite side
• crystalline silica from bricks and of the tree from the notching cut.
cement and other masonry products, • Front Handle - The support handle located
and at or toward the front of the chainsaw.
• arsenic and chromium from • Front Hand Guard - A structural barrier
chemically-treated lumber. between the front handle of a chainsaw
Your risk from these exposures varies, and the guide bar, typically located close
depending on how often you do this type to the hand position on the front handle
of work. To reduce your exposure to these and sometimes employed as an activating
chemicals: work in a well ventilated area, lever for a chain brake.
and work with approved safety equipment, • Guide Bar - A solid railed structure that
such as those dust masks that are specially supports and guides the saw chain.
designed to filter out microscopic particles. • Guide Bar Scabbard - Enclosure fitted
• Avoid prolonged contact with dust over guide bar to prevent tooth contact
from power sanding, sawing, grinding, when saw is not in use.
drilling, and other construction • Kickback - The backward or upward
activities. Wear protective clothing motion, or both of the guide bar occurring
and wash exposed areas with soap when the saw chain near the nose of the
and water. Allowing dust to get into top area of the guide bar contacts any
your mouth, eyes, or lay on the skin may object such as a log or branch, or when
promote absorption of harmful chemicals. the wood closes in and pinches the saw
chain in the cut.
WARNING: Use of this tool can • Kickback, Pinch - The rapid pushback of
generate and/or disburse dust, which the saw which can occur when the wood
may cause serious and permanent closes in and pinches the moving saw chain
respiratory or other injury. Always use in the cut along the top of the guide bar.
NIOSH/OSHA approved respiratory • Kickback, Rotational - The rapid upward
protection appropriate for the dust exposure. and backward motion of the saw which
Direct particles away from face and body. can occur when the moving saw chain
An extension cord must have adequate near the upper portion of the tip of the

5
 guide bar contacts an object, such as a log
or branch.
INTENDED USE
Your CRAFTSMAN Chainsaw is ideal for
• Limbing - Removing the branches from a pruning applications and cutting small logs
fallen tree up to 16 inches (406 mm) in diameter. This
• Low-Kickback Chain - A chain that tool is intended for consumer use only.
complies with the kickback
performance requirements of ANSI SAVE THESE INSTRUCTIONS
B175.1-1991 (when tested on
a representative sample of chainsaws.) SYMBOLS
• Normal Cutting Position - Those The label on your tool may include the
positions assumed in following symbols. The symbols and their
performing the bucking and felling cuts. definitions are as follows:
• Notching Undercut - A notch cut in a V..................volts
tree that directs the tree’s fall. A..................amperes
• Rear Handle - The support handle Hz................hertz
located at or toward the rear of the saw. W.................watts
• Reduced Kickback Guide Bar - A guide
bar which has been demonstrated to min...............minutes
reduce kickback significantly. or AC......alternating current
• Replacement Saw Chain - A chain or DC....direct current
that complies with kickback performance no................no load speed
requirements of ANSI B175.1-2000 when .................Class I Construction
tested with specific chainsaws. It may not (grounded)
meet the ANSI performance .................earthing terminal
requirements when used with other saws. ................safety alert symbol
• Saw Chain - A loop of chain having ................Class II Construction
cutting teeth, that cut the wood,and that (double insulated)
is driven by the motor and is supported by .../min or rpm...revolutions or
the guide bar. reciprocation per minute m/s
• Ribbed Bumper - The ribs used when meters per second
felling or bucking to pivot the saw and in..................inches
maintain position while sawing. mm..............millimeters
• Switch - A device that when operated will ................Read instruction manual
complete or interrupt an electrical power before use
circuit to the motor of the chainsaw.
• Switch Linkage - The mechanism that .................Use proper respiratory
transmits motion from a trigger to the protection
switch. ................Use proper eye protection
• Switch Lockout - A movable stop that .................Use proper hearing
prevents the unintentional operation of the protection
switch until manually actuated.

FUNCTIONAL DESCRIPTION
2 11
14 3
9
10
1
12 13
6 5
7
4
15
8

1. Trigger switch 9. Guide bar scabbard

2. Lock-off button (not shown) 10. Rear handle
3. Front hand guard 11. Front handle
4. Guide bar 12. Power cord
5. Saw chain 13. Extension cord retainer
6. Sprocket cover 14. Oil cap
7. Bar adjust locking knob 15. Oil level indicator
8. Chain tensioning wheel
6
PREPARING YOUR engage the slot in the guide bar by rotating
the chain tensioning wheel (8).
CHAINSAW FOR USE • Once in place, turn the chain tensioning
WARNING: Read and understand wheel (8) by hand to preliminarily tighten
all instructions. Failure to follow all the assembly and hold it in place.
instructions listed below may result in electric • While holding the bar still, replace the
shock, fire and/or serious personal injury. sprocket cover (6). Make sure the tab (19)
on the cover lines up with the slot (20) in
the main housing as shown in figure C.
ASSEMBLY Rotate the bar adjust locking knob (7)
clockwise until snug, then loosen knob (7)
INSTALLING THE GUIDE BAR one full turn, so the saw chain can be
AND SAW CHAIN properly tensioned.
CAUTION: Sharp chain. Always
wear protective gloves when handling C
the chain. The chain is sharp and can cut
you when it is not running.
WARNING: Sharp moving chain. To 20
prevent accidental operation, ensure 19
that tool is unplugged before performing
the following operations. Failure to do this
could result in serious personal injury.

A • Follow instructions for “Adjusting Chain

Tension” in the next section.
ADJUSTING CHAIN TENSION
CAUTION: Sharp chain. Always
wear protective gloves when handling
the chain. The chain is sharp and can cut
you when it is not running.
WARNING: Sharp moving chain. To
prevent accidental operation, ensure
The saw chain (5) and guide bar (4) are that the tool is unplugged before
packed together in the carton. They need to performing the following operations.
be attached to the body of the saw. Failure to do this could result in serious
• Place the saw on a firm surface. personal injury.
• Rotate the bar adjust locking knob (7) • With the saw on a firm surface, check the saw
counterclockwise as shown in figure A to chain (5) tension. The tension is correct when
remove sprocket cover (6). the chain snaps back after being pulled 1/8
• Wearing protective gloves, grasp the saw inch (3mm) away from the guide bar (4) with
chain (5) and wrap it around the guide bar light force from the middle finger and thumb as
(4), ensuring the teeth are facing the shown in figure D.
correct direction (see figure G)

B D
16 17

18
• Ensure the chain is properly set in the slot
around the entire guide bar.
• Place the saw chain around the sprocket
(16) while lining up the slot in the guide bar
with the bolt (17) in the base of the tool and
the chain tensioning pin (18) as shown in
figure B.
NOTE: You may need to adjust the position
of the chain tension pin (18) for it to properly
7
• To adjust saw chain tension, loosen bar bar, making sure the saw teeth are facing
adjust locking knob (7), rotate the chain the correct direction by matching the arrow
tensioning wheel (8) towards the top of the on the chain with the graphic on the
saw to increase tension as shown in figure sprocket cover (6) shown in figure G.
E. Tighten the bar adjust locking knob until
snug after making sure the saw chain (5) is G
snug around the guide bar (4).

• Follow previous instructions for Installing

the Guide Bar and Saw Chain and
• There should be no “sag” between the guide adjusting chain tension.
bar and the chain on the underside as shown
in figure F. AUTO OILING SYSTEM
This chainsaw is equipped with an auto
oiling system that keeps the saw chain and
F guide bar constantly lubricated.
The oil level indicator (15) shows the level of
the oil in the chainsaw. If the oil level is less
than a quarter full, unplug the chainsaw and
refill with the proper oil.
NOTE: Use a high quality bar and chain
oil for proper chain and bar lubrication. As
a temporary substitute, a non-detergent
SAE30 weight motor oil can be used.The
use of a vegetable based bar and chain oil is
recommended when pruning trees. Mineral
• Once chain tension is correct, tighten bar oil is not recommended because it may
adjust locking knob. harm trees. Never use waste oil or very thick
• Do not over-tension the chain as this will oil. These may damage your chainsaw.
lead to excessive wear and will reduce the
life of the bar and chain. FILLING THE OIL RESERVOIR
• When the chain is new, check the tension • Remove the oil cap (14) and fill the
frequently (after unplugging tool) during reservoir with the recommended chain oil
the first 2 hours of use as a new chain until the oil level has reached the top of the
stretches slightly. oil level indicator (15).
• Refit the oil cap.
REPLACING THE SAW CHAIN • Periodically switch the chainsaw off and
check the oil level indicator to ensure the
CAUTION: Sharp chain. Always bar and chain are being properly oiled.
wear protective gloves when handling
the chain. The chain is sharp and can cut ATTACHING EXTENSION
you when it is not running.
CORD
WARNING: Sharp moving chain. To An extension cord retainer (13) is built into
prevent accidental operation, ensure the switch handle. It prevents the Extension
that the tool is unplugged before cord from coming unplugged.
performing the following operations. • Double the extension cord and insert it
Failure to do this could result in serious into the slot (21) in the end of the handle
personal injury. area as shown in figure H. Hook the
• Rotate the bar adjust locking knob (7) loop formed by doubling the cord over
counterclockwise to lessen chain tension. the cord retainer (13). Gently tug on the
• Remove sprocket cover (6) as described in cord to ensure that it is firmly retained in
the handle. Plug the receptacle end of the
“Installing the Guide Bar and Saw Chain” extension cord into the power cord (12) of
section. the chainsaw.
• Lift the worn saw chain (5) out of the
groove in the guide bar (4).
• Place the new chain in the slot of the guide

8
 H ON / OFF
Always be sure of your footing and grip the
13 chainsaw firmly with both hands with the
thumb and fingers encircling both handles.
21 • To turn the tool ON, depress the lock off
button (2) and squeeze the trigger switch
(1) as shown in figure J. (Once the tool
is running you can release the lock off
button.)
TRANSPORTING SAW • To turn the tool OFF, release the trigger
• Always cover the guide bar (4) with the switch.
scabbard (9) (figure I) when transporting
the saw.
J 2
I

OPERATING THE CHAINSAW

WARNING: Read and understand all
instructions. Failure to follow all instructions
listed below may result in electric shock, fire COMMON CUTTING
and/or serious personal injury.
• Guard Against Kickback which can TECHNIQUES
result in severe injury or death. See FELLING
Important Safety Instructions “Guard Felling is the process of cutting down
Against Kickback”, to avoid the risk of a tree. Be sure battery is fully charged
kickback. before felling a tree so you can finish on a
• Do not overreach. Do not cut above single charge. Do not fell trees in high wind
chest height. Make sure your footing conditions.
is firm. Keep feet apart. Divide your
weight evenly on both feet. WARNING: Felling can result in injury.
• Use a firm grip with your left hand on It should only be performed by a trained
the front handle (11) and your right person.
hand on the rear handle (10) so that • (Figure K) A retreat path should be
your body is to the left of the guide bar. planned and cleared as necessary before
• Do not hold chainsaw by front hand cuts are started. The retreat path should
guard (3). Keep elbow of left arm locked extend back and diagonally to the rear of
so that left arm is straight to withstand a the expected line of fall.
kickback.
WARNING: Never use a cross- K RETREAT
handed grip (left hand on the rear handle
and right hand on the front handle). DIRECTION
OF
WARNING: Never allow any part of FALL
your body to be in line with the guide bar
(4) when operating the chainsaw.
• Never operate while in a tree, in any
awkward position or on a ladder or 45° TREE
other unstable surface. You may lose
control of saw causing severe injury.
• Keep the chainsaw running at full • Before felling is started, consider the
speed the entire time you are cutting. natural lean of the tree, the location of
• Allow the chain to cut for you. Exert larger branches and the wind direction to
only light pressure. Do not put pressure on judge which way the tree will fall. Have
chainsaw at end of cut. wedges (wood, plastic or aluminum)
and a heavy mallet handy.
Remove dirt, stones, loose bark, nails,
staples, and wire from the tree where the

9
 felling cuts are to be made. BUCKING
• (Figure L) Notching Undercut - Make Bucking is cutting a felled tree or log into
the notch 1/3 of the diameter of the tree, lengths. How you should cut depends on
perpendicular to the direction of the fall. how the log is supported. Use a saw horse
Make the lower horizontal notching cut (figure N) whenever possible.
first. This will help to avoid pinching of
either the saw chain or the guide bar when • (Figure N) When using a saw horse
the second notch is being made. This is strongly recommended whenever
• (Figure L) Felling Back Cut - Make the possible. Position the log in a stable
felling back cut at least position. Always cut on the outside of the
2 inches (51mm) higher than the horizontal saw horse arms.
notching cut. Keep the felling back cut
parallel to the horizontal notching cut.
Make the felling back cut so enough wood N
is left to act as a hinge. The hinge wood
keeps the tree from twisting and falling in
the wrong direction. Do not cut through
the hinge.
• (Figure L) As the felling cut gets close to
the hinge the tree should begin to fall. If
there is any chance that the tree may not
fall in the desired direction or it may rock Always start a cut with the chain running at
back and bind the saw chain, stop cutting full speed.
before the felling cut is complete and use • Place the bottom spike (22) of the
wedges to open the cut and drop the tree chainsaw behind the area of the initial cut
along the desired line of fall. When the tree as shown in figure O.
begins to fall remove the chainsaw from
the cut, stop the motor, put the chainsaw
down, then use the retreat path planned. O CUT FROM TOP
(OVERBUCK)
Be alert for overhead limbs falling and AVOID CUTTING EARTH
watch your footing.

L 2 (5cm)
DIRECTION INCHES FELLING BACK
22
OF FALL CUT
2 (5cm)
INCHES • Turn the chainsaw on then rotate the chain
NOTCH
and bar down into the tree, using the
HINGE spike as a hinge.
• Once the chainsaw gets to a 45 degree
angle, level the chainsaw again and repeat
LIMBING steps until you cut fully through.
Limbing is removing the branches from a • When the tree is supported along its
fallen tree. When limbing, leave larger lower entire length, make a cut from the top
limbs to support the log off the ground. (overbuck), but avoid cutting the earth as
Remove the small limbs in one cut. this will dull your saw chain quickly.
Branches under tension should be cut from • (Figure P) When supported at one end
the bottom up to avoid binding the chainsaw First, cut 1/3 the diameter from the
as shown in figure M. Trim limbs from underside (underbuck). Then make the
opposite side keeping tree stem between finished cut by overbucking to meet the
you and saw. Never make cuts with saw first cut.
between your legs or straddle the limb to be
2nd CUT OVERBUCK
cut. P (2/3DIAMETER)
TO MEET 1st CUT
M 2 (TO AVOID PINCHING)
1st CUT UNDERBUCK
11 (1/3 DIAMETER)
AVOID SPLINTERING

10
• (Figure Q) When supported at both ends SAW CHAIN SHARPENING
First, cut 1/3 down from the top overbuck.
Then make the finished cut by CAUTION: Sharp chain. Always
underbucking the lower 2/3 to meet the wear protective gloves when handling
first cut. the chain. The chain is sharp and can cut
you when it is not running.
1st CUT OVERBUCK
Q (1/3 DIAMETER) WARNING: Sharp moving chain. To
TO AVOID SPLINTERING prevent accidental operation, ensure
that the tool is unplugged before
2nd CUT UNDERBUCK performing the following operations.
(2/3 DIAMETER) Failure to do this could result in serious
TO MEET 1st CUT personal injury.
(TO AVOID PINCHING) NOTE: The cutters will dull immediately if
they touch the earth or a nail while cutting.
• (Figure R) When on a slope
Always stand on the uphill side of the log. To get the best possible performance from
When “cutting through”, to maintain your chainsaw it is important to keep the
complete control release the cutting teeth of the chain sharp. Follow these helpful
pressure near the end of the cut without tips for proper saw chain sharpening:
relaxing your grip on the chainsaw 1. For best results use a 4.5mm file
handles. Don’t let the chain contact the and a file holder or filing guide to
ground. After completing the cut, wait for sharpen your chain. This will ensure
the saw chain to stop before you move the you always get the correct sharpening
chainsaw. Always stop the motor before angles.
moving from cut to cut. 2. Place the file holder flat on the top
plate and depth gauge of the cutter.
R 3. (Figure S) Keep the correct top plate
(22) filing angle line of 30° on your file
guide parallel with your chain (file at
60° from chain viewed from above).
4. Sharpen cutters on one side of the
chain first. File from the inside of each
cutter to the outside. Then turn your
saw around and repeat the processes
(2,3,4) for cutters on the other side of
the chain.

CARE AND MAINTENANCE S

Use only mild soap and damp cloth to clean 22
60°
the tool. Do not use solvents to clean the
plastic housing of the saw. Never let any
liquid get inside the tool; never immerse any
part of the tool into a liquid.
IMPORTANT: To assure product SAFETY
and RELIABILITY, repairs, maintenance and
adjustment should be performed by qualified NOTE: Use a flat file to file the tops of the
service organizations, always using identical rakers (portion of chain link in front of the
replacement parts. cutter) so they are about .025 inch (.635 mm)
Regular maintenance ensures a long below the tips of the cutters as shown in
effective life for your chainsaw. We Figure T.
recommend you make the following checks
on a regular basis:
T
CHAIN AND BAR .025 in.
After every few hours of use, remove the .635mm
guide bar and chain and
clean thoroughly.

11
 5. (Figure U) Keep all cutter lengths which can be determined by turning
equal. the equipment off and on, the user is
encouraged to try to correct the interference
by one or more of the following measures:
U
• Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna.
• Increase the separation between the
equipment and receiver.
• Connect the equipment into an outlet on
a circuit different from that to which the
receiver is connected.
• Consult the dealer or an experienced radio/
6. If damage is present on the chrome TV technician for help.
surface of the top plates or side Changes or modifications to this unit not
plates, file back until such damage is expressly approved by the party responsible
removed. for compliance could void the user’s
authority to operate the equipment. This
CAUTION: After filing, the cutter will Class B digital apparatus complies with
be sharp, use extra caution during this Canadian ICES-003.
process.
NOTE: Each time the chain is sharpened, Three Year Limited Warranty
it loses some of the low kickback qualities CRAFTSMAN will repair or replace, without charge,
and extra caution should be used. It is any defects due to faulty materials or workmanship
recommended that a chain be sharpened no
for three years from the date of purchase. This
more than four times.
warranty does not cover part failure due to normal
ACCESSORIES wear or tool abuse. For further detail of warranty
coverage and warranty repair information, visit
WARNING: The use of accessories www.craftsman.com or call
not recommended in this manual may be
hazardous. 1-888-331-4569. This warranty does not apply
Accessories are available from your local to accessories or damage caused where repairs
retailer. have been made or attempted by others. THIS
• Replace bar with a corresponding 16-inch LIMITED WARRANTY IS GIVEN IN LIEU OF ALL
low-kickback bar. OTHERS, INCLUDING THE IMPLIED WARRANTY
NOTE: Ensure the new bar is equipped with OF MERCHANTABILITY AND FITNESS FOR A
a tool-free tension assembly (16). PARTICULAR PURPOSE, AND EXCLUDES ALL
INCIDENTAL OR CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES.
This Class B digital apparatus complies with Some states do not allow limitations on how
Canadian ICES-003. long an implied warranty lasts or the exclusion or
limitation of incidental or consequential damages,
This device complies with part 15 of the
so these limitations may not apply to you. This
FCC rules. Operation is subject to the
following two conditions: (1) This device warranty gives you specific legal rights and you
may not cause harmful interference, and (2) may have other rights which vary in certain states
this device must accept any interference or provinces.
received, including interference that may 90 DAY MONEY BACK GUARANTEE
cause undesired operation. If you are not completely satisfied with the
NOTE: This equipment has been tested performance of your CRAFTSMAN Power Tool or
and found to comply with the limits for a Nailer for any reason, you can return it within 90
Class B digital device, pursuant to Part days from the date of purchase with a receipt for a
15 of the FCC Rules. These limits are full refund – no questions asked.
designed to provide reasonable protection LATIN AMERICA: This warranty does not apply
against harmful interference in a residential
installation. This equipment generates, uses to products sold in Latin America. For products
and can radiate radio frequency energy sold in Latin America, see country specific
and, if not installed and used in accordance warranty information contained in the packaging,
with the instructions, may cause harmful call the local company or see website for
interference to radio communications. warranty information.
However, there is no guarantee that FREE WARNING LABEL REPLACEMENT:
interference will not occur in a particular If your warning labels become illegible or
installation. are missing, call 1-888-331-4569 for a
If this equipment does cause harmful free replacement.
interference to radio or television reception,

12
 TROUBLESHOOTING
Problem Possible Cause Possible Solution
• Chain saw will not start. • Cord not plugged in. • Plug chain saw into a working outlet.
• Circuit fuse is blown. • Replace circuit fuse. (If the
product repeatedly causes the
circuit fuse to blow, discontinue use
immediately and call the Craftsman
help line at 888-331-4569.
• Circuit breaker is tripped. • Reset circuit breaker. (If the product
repeatedly causes the circuit
breaker to trip, discontinue use
immediately and call the Craftsman
help line at 888-331-4569.
• Cord or switch is • Call the Craftsman help line at
888-331-4569 to have cord or
switch replaced.
• Lock-off button not • Push lock off button and then
actuated. depress the trigger switch.
• Bar / chain overheated. • Chain too tight. • Refer to “adjusting chain
tension” section.
• Lubrication needed. • Refer to “filling the oil reservoir”
section.
•Chain is loose. • Chain tension set • Refer to “adjusting chain
incorrectly. tension” section.
•Poor cut quality. • Chain tension set • Refer to “adjusting chain
incorrectly. tension” section.
• Chain needs to be • Refer to “saw chain sharpening”
sharpened. section.
• Chain needs Note: Excessive tension leads to
replacement. excessive wear and reduction in
life of bar & chain. Ensure too is
always adequately filled with
proper oil.
Refer to “replacing the saw chain”
section.
•Unit runs but does • Chain installed • Refer to sections for installing
not cut. backwards. and removing chain.

For assistance with your product, visit our website www.craftsman.com.

Call the Craftsman help line at 888-331-4569.

13
 Imported by
Craftsman,
701 East Joppa Rd.
Towson, MD 21286 U.S.A.

Cat No. CMECS600 Form #N550959 June 2018

Copyright © 2018 CRAFTSMAN Printed in China
44