MAKITA EA3500S (02) PDF MANUAL

WARNING! FUELS WITH MORE THAN 10% ETHANOL ARE NOT APPROVED FOR USE IN MAKITA 2-STROKE ENGINES!

Use of alternative fuels, such as E-20 (20% ethanol), E-85 (85% ethanol) or any fuels not meeting MAKITA requirements are not approved for use in MAKITA 2-stroke gasoline engines!

USE OF ALTERNATIVE FUELS CAN CAUSE THE FOLLOWING PROBLEMS: Poor engine performance, loss of power, overheating, fuel vapor lock, improper clutch engagement, premature deterioration of fuel lines, premature deterioration of gaskets, premature deterioration of carburetors.

USING ALTERNATIVE FUELS AND/OR 2-STROKE OILS NOT ACCORDING TO JASO FC OR ISO-L-EGD IN MAKITA 2-STROKE ENGINES WILL VOID YOUR ENGINE WARRANTY!

Read Operator’s and Safety Manual and follow the warning and safety precautions!

Particular care and caution!

Forbidden!

Wear protective helmet, eye and ear protection!

Wear protective gloves!

No smoking!

No open fire!

Stop engine!

Start engine

Combination switch, Choke ON/STOP

Safety position

Caution, kickback!

Chain brake

Fuel and oil mixture

Carburetor adjustment (H=High speed, L=Low speed)

Chain oil fill/oil pump

Saw chain oil adjustment screw

First aid

Do not touch hot surfaces!

Recycling

a) Contact of the guide bar nose with any object should be avoided.

b) Tip contact may cause the guide bar to move suddenly upward and backward, which may cause serious or fatal injury.

Read and follow all safety precautions in the operator’s manual. Failure to follow instructions could result in serious injury.

It is recommended to lend the chain saw only to people who are experienced in working with chain saws. Always hand over the Operator’s and Safety Manual.

Kickback may occur when the nose or tip of the guide bar touches an object, or when the wood closes in and pinches the saw chain in the cut. Tip contact in some cases may cause a lightning-fast reverse reaction, kicking the guide bar up and back toward the operator. Pinching the saw chain along the top of the guide bar may push the guide bar rapidly back toward the operator. Either of these reactions may cause you to lose control of the saw, which could result in serious personal injury.

Do not rely exclusively upon the safety devices built into your saw. As a chain saw user, you should take several steps to keep your cutting jobs free from accident or injury:

a) With a basic understanding of kickback, you can reduce or eliminate the element of surprise. Sudden surprise contributes to accidents.

b) Keep a good firm grip on the saw with both hands, the right hand on the rear handle and the left hand on the front handle, when the engine is running. Use a firm grip with thumbs and fingers encircling the chain saw handles. A firm grip will help reduce kickback and maintain control of the saw. Don’t let go.

c) Make sure that the area in which you are cutting is free from obstructions. Do not let the nose of the guide bar contact a log, branch, or any other obstruction that could be hit while you are operating the saw.

d) Cut at high engine speeds.

e) Do not overreach or cut above shoulder height.

f) Follow the manufacturer’s sharpening and maintenance instructions for the saw chain.

g) Only use replacement bars and chains specified by the manufacturer or the equivalent.

A chain saw is intended for two-handed use. Do not operate a chain saw with one hand! Serious injury to the operator, helpers, bystanders may result from one-handed operation.

When a chain saw is being used, a fire extinguisher should be available.

Follow the instructions in your operator’s manual for starting the chain saw and control the chain saw with a firm grip on both handles when it is in operation.

Keep handles dry, clean, and free of oil or fuel mixture.

Do not operate a chain saw when you are fatigued. Fatigue causes carelessness. Be more cautious before rest periods and towards the end of your shift.

Personal protective clothing required by your safety organizations, government regulations, or your employer should be used. At all times when using a chain saw, snug-fitting clothing, protective eyewear, safety footwear, and hand, leg, head and hearing protection should be worn.

Use caution when handling fuel. Before fuelling, servicing, or transporting your chain saw, switch off the engine. To help prevent fire, restart your chain saw at least 3 m (10 ft) from the fuelling area.

Keep other persons or animals a safe distance away from a running chain saw or the area where a tree is being felled.

Always keep proper footing and operate the chain saw only when standing on a fixed, secure, and level surface, and a planned retreat path from the falling tree.

Keep all parts of your body away from the saw chain when the engine is running.

Before you start the engine, make sure that the saw chain is not contacting anything.

Carry the chain saw by the front handle with the engine stopped, the guide bar and saw chain to the rear, and the muffler away from your body.

When transporting, storing or not in use, always use the appropriate guide bar cover. It must fit and fully cover the guide bar on the chain saw.

Never operate a chain saw that is damaged or improperly adjusted or that is not completely and securely assembled. Be sure that the saw chain stops moving when the power control system trigger is released. Never adjust the guide bar or saw chain when the engine is operating.

Shut off the engine before setting the chain saw down.

Use extreme caution when cutting small-size brush and saplings because slender material may catch the saw chain and be whipped toward you or pull you off balance.

When cutting a limb that is under tension, be alert for spring back so that you will not be struck when the tension in the wood fibers is released.

When felling, keep at least two tree lengths away from other persons or animals.

Beware of carbon monoxide poisoning. Operate the chain saw in well-ventilated areas only.

Allow your chain saw to cool before refuelling, and do not smoke.

Do not attempt a pruning or limbing operation in a standing tree unless specifically trained to do so.

All chain saw service, other than the items listed in the operator’s manuals maintenance instructions, should be performed by competent chain saw service personnel.

Hold the chain saw by the insulated gripping surface only, because the saw chain may contact hidden electrical wiring.

Reactive forces, including kickback, can be dangerous. Careless or improper use of any chain saw may cause serious or fatal injury.

Have your MAKITA dealer show you how to operate your chain saw. Observe all applicable local safety regulations, standards and ordinances.

Minors should never be allowed to use a chain saw.

Bystanders, especially children and animals should not be allowed in the area where a chain saw is in use.

Never let the saw run unattended.

Store it in a locked place away from children. Empty the fuel and oil tank before storing.

Do not lend your chain saw without this Operator’s and Safety Manual.

Contact of the guide bar tip with any object should be avoided! Tip contact may cause the guide bar to move suddenly upward and backward, which may cause serious injury!

Always use two hands when operating the chain saw!

Use a Reduced Kickback Bar and Chain combination evaluated for kickback protection.

You must be in good physical condition and mental health and not under the influence of any substance (drugs, alcohol), which might impair vision, dexterity or judgment.

Prolonged use of chain saws exposing the operator to vibrations may produce Whitefinger disease. This phenomenon reduces the hand’s ability to feel and regulate temperature, produces numbness and burning sensations and may cause nerve and circulation damage and tissue necrosis. All MAKITA saws are provided with an antivibration system. Antivibration systems do not guarantee that you will not sustain Whitefinger disease, however, they reduce this danger considerably. Nevertheless, continual and regular users should observe their hands and fingers and in case of any abnormal symptoms, seek medical advice immediately.

Clothing must be sturdy and snug-fitting, but allow complete freedom of movement. Avoid loose-fitting jackets, scarfs, neckties, jewelry, flared or cuffed pants, or anything that could become entangled with the saw or brush. Wear overalls or jeans with a reinforced cutting resistant insert.

Protect your hands with gloves when handling saw and saw chain. Heavy-duty, nonslip gloves improve your grip and protect your hands.

Good footing is most important. Wear sturdy boots with nonslip soles. Steel-toed safety boots are recommended.

Proper eye protection is a must. Non-fogging, vented goggles and a face screen is recommended.

Wear an approved safety hard hat to protect your head.

Chain saw noise may damage your hearing. Always wear noise protection equipment (ear plugs or ear muffs).

Sawing dry wood can create dust. Use a suitable dust mask.

WARNING! Always stop the engine before putting a chain saw down or carrying it. Carrying a chain saw with the engine running is extremely dangerous. Accidental acceleration of the engine can cause the chain to rotate. Avoid touching the hot muffler.

By hand: When carrying your saw by hand, the engine must be stopped and the saw must be in the proper position. The chain protection cover should be over the chain and the guide bar must point backwards. When carrying your saw the bar should be behind you.

By vehicle: When transporting in a vehicle, keep chain and bar covered with the chain guard. Properly secure your saw to prevent turnover, fuel spillage and damage to the saw. Make sure the saw is not exposed to heat or sparks.

Your MAKITA saw uses an oil-gasoline mixture for fuel (see chapter “Fuel”).

WARNING! Gasoline is an extremely flammable fuel. Use extreme caution when handling gasoline or fuel mix. Do not smoke or bring any sparks or flame near the fuel.

Fuel your chain saw in well ventilated areas or outdoors. Always shut off the engine and allow it to cool before refueling. Select bare ground for fueling and move the chain saw at least 10 feet (3 m) from fueling spot before starting the engine.

Wipe off any spilled fuel before starting your saw and check for leakage. Check for fuel leakage while refueling and during operation. If fuel or oil leakage is found, do not start or run the engine until leak is fixed and spilled fuel has been wiped away. Clothing with fuel on it has to be changed immediately.

Avoid skin contact with fuel. Never loosen or remove the cap of the fuel tank while the engine is running.

Do not drop start. This method is very dangerous because you may lose control of the saw.

Place the chain saw on firm ground or other solid surface in an open area. Maintain a good balance and secure footing. Place your right foot through the rear handle opening and firmly grasp the front handle with your left hand.

Be absolutely sure that guide bar and chain are clear of you or all other obstructions and objects, including the ground, because when the engine starts in semi-throttle position, engine speed will be fast enough for the clutch to engage the sprocket and turn the chain which may cause a kickback.

Never attempt to start the saw when the guide bar is in a cut or kerf.

When you pull the starter grip, don’t wrap the starter rope around your hands. Do not allow the grip to snap back, but guide the starter rope slowly back to permit the rope to rewind properly. Failure to follow this procedure may result in injury to hand or fingers and may damage the starter mechanism.

Refer to the specific “Starting the engine” section for Cold and Warm starting procedures.

Idle Speed: At correct idle speed, chain should not turn. Refer to the manual section for adjusting idle speed. Do not use a saw with incorrect idle speed adjustment. Have your MAKITA dealer check and make proper adjustments or repairs.

Chain Tension: Check the saw chain tension frequently, especially just after installing a new chain. New chains may stretch more during their initial use. A properly adjusted saw chain can be pulled freely around the guide bar by hand without sagging. Always stop the engine and wear gloves when checking or adjusting the chain tension.

Operate your chain saw only outdoors.

Operate the saw under good visibility and daylight conditions only.

Take extreme care in wet and freezing weather (rain, snow, ice). Put off the work when the weather is windy, stormy or rainfall is heavy.

Clear the area where you are working.

Avoid stumbling on obstacles such as stumps, roots or rocks and watch out for holes or ditches.

Be extremely cautious when working on slopes or uneven ground.

There is increased danger of slipping on freshly debarked logs.

Always hold the saw firmly with both hands when the engine is running. Place your left hand on the tubular handle and your right hand on grip and throttle lever. Left-handers should follow these instructions too.

Wrap your fingers tightly around the handles, keeping the handles cradled between your thumb and forefinger. With your hands in this position, you can best oppose and absorb the push, pull and kickback forces.

Make sure your chain saw handle and grip are in good condition and free of moisture, pitch, oil or grease.

Always start a cut with the chain running at full speed and the spike bar in contact with the wood.

WARNING! Never use the saw with one hand. You cannot control reactive forces and may lose control of the saw.

WARNING! Do not operate your chain saw in semi-throttle position. Cutting in this position does not permit the operator proper control of the saw or chain speed.

WARNING! Never come too close to a rotating chain with your hands or body.

WARNING! Cut wood only. Do not use the chain saw for purposes not intended (e.g., cutting plastic, masonry, non-wood building materials). Use your chain saw for cutting only. It is not designed for prying or shoveling.

When sawing, make sure that the saw chain does not touch any foreign materials such as rocks, nails and the like. Such objects may be flung off, damage the saw chain or cause the saw to kickback.

If the chain saw is exposed to force (impact, falling), inspect the entire chain saw for proper functioning.

In order to keep control of your saw, always maintain a firm foothold. Never work on a ladder, in a tree or on any other insecure support. Never use the saw above shoulder height.

Position the chain saw in such a way that your body is clear of the cutting attachment whenever the engine is running.

Don’t put pressure on the saw when reaching the end of a cut. The pressure may cause the bar and rotating chain to pop out of the cut or kerf, go out of control and strike the operator or some other object.

Reactive forces, that may occur during any cut are kickback, pushback and pull-in. These forces can be dangerous and may result in loss of control which may, in turn, cause serious or fatal injury.

Kickback: Occurs when the upper quadrant of the bar nose contacts a solid object in the wood or is pinched. The reaction causes a rotational force of the chain saw in the direction opposite to the chain movement, mainly in the plane of the bar. This may fling the bar in an uncontrolled arc towards the operator. It can also occur during limbing, when the nose of the bar is pinched unexpectedly, unintentionally contacts solid material, or is incorrectly used to begin a plunge or boring cut.

Pushback: Occurs when the chain on the top of the bar is suddenly stopped when it is pinched, caught or encounters a foreign object in the wood. The reaction of the chain drives the saw straight back toward the operator causing loss of saw control. Pushback frequently occurs when the top of the bar is used for cutting.

Pull-in: Occurs when the chain on the bottom of the bar is suddenly stopped when it is pinched, caught or encounters a foreign object in the wood. The reaction of the chain pulls the saw forward, causing the operator to lose control. Pull-in frequently occurs when the spike bar of the saw is not held securely against the tree or limb and when the chain is not rotating at full speed before it contacts the wood.

The best protection from personal-injury that may result from kickback is to avoid kickback situations:

1. Hold the chain saw firmly with both hands and maintain a secure grip.

2. Be aware of the location of the guide bar nose at all times.

3. Never bring the nose of the guide bar in contact with any object. Do not cut limbs with the nose of the guide bar. Be especially careful with small, tough limbs, small size brush and saplings which may easily catch the chain.

4. Don’t overreach.

5. Don’t cut above shoulder height.

6. Begin cutting and continue at full throttle.

7. Cut only one log at a time.

8. Use extreme caution when re-entering a previous cut.

9. Do not attempt plunge cuts if you are not experienced with these cutting techniques.

10. Be alert for shifting of the log or other forces that may cause the cut to close and pinch the chain.

11. Maintain saw chain properly. Cut with a correctly sharpened, properly tensioned chain at all times.

12. Stand to the side of the cutting path of the chain saw.

1. Be alert to forces or situations that may cause material to pinch the top of the chain.

2. Do not cut more than one log at a time.

3. Do not twist the saw when withdrawing the bar from a plunge cut or under buck cut, because the chain can pinch.

1. Always start a cut with the chain rotating at full speed and the spike bar in contact with the wood.

2. Pull-in may also be prevented by using plastic wedges to open the kerf or cut.

WARNING! Use extreme caution when cutting small size brush and saplings which may easily catch the chain and pull you off balance.

Consider carefully all conditions which may affect the direction of fall, including:

The intended direction of the fall.

The neutral lean of the tree.

Any unusually heavy limb structure.

Surrounding trees and obstacles.

The wind direction and speed.

WARNING! Always observe the general condition of the tree. Look for decay and rot in the trunk. If it is rotted inside, it could snap and fall toward the operator while being cut. Also look for broken or dead branches which could vibrate loose and fall on the operator. When felling on a slope, the operator should stand on the up-hill side.

When felling in the vicinity of roads, railways and power lines, etc., take extra precautions. Inform the police, utility company or railway authority before beginning to cut.

Maintain a distance of at least 2 1/2 tree lengths from the nearest person.

The noise of your engine may drown any warning call.

1. Clear the tree base and work area from interfering limbs and brush and clean its lower portion with an axe.

2. Plan your work, ensuring an obstacle-free work area. Prepare at least one escape path from the falling tree in advance. This path should be opposite to the planned direction of fall and at a 45° angle. An alternate path must also be selected. Place tools and equipment a safe distance away, but not on the escape path.

3. If the tree has large buttress roots, cut into the largest buttresses vertically first (horizontally next) and remove.

4. Determine the placement of the felling notch. It determines the direction of fall. Make it perpendicular to the line of fall and as close to the ground as possible.

5. Cut the felling notch to a depth of about one-fifth to one-fourth of the trunk diameter. It should be no higher than it is deep. Make the felling notch very carefully (typically an angled top cut and a horizontal bottom cut meeting precisely).

6. Begin the felling cut slightly higher than the felling notch and on the opposite side of the tree. Cut horizontally through towards the felling notch.

7. Apply the chain saw with its spikes directly behind the uncut portion of wood and cut toward the notch.

8. Leave approximately 1/10 of the tree diameter uncut! This is the hinge. Do not cut through the hinge because you could lose control of the direction of the fall.

9. Drive wedges (wood, light alloy or plastic – never steel) into the felling cut where necessary to control the direction of the fall.

10. Always keep to the side of the falling tree. When the tree starts to fall, shut off the engine, withdraw the bar and walk away on the pre-planned escape path. Watch out for falling limbs.

WARNING! Be extremely careful with partially fallen trees which are poorly supported. If a tree hangs or does not fall completely, set the saw aside and pull the tree down with a cable winch, block and tackle or tractor. Do not try to cut it down with your saw.

WARNING! Felling a tree that has a diameter greater than the length of the guide bar requires use of either the sectioning or plunge-cut method. These methods are extremely dangerous because they involve the use of the nose of the guide bar and can result in kickback. Only properly trained professionals should attempt these techniques.

Sectioning Method: Make the first cut with the guide bar fanning in toward the hinge. Then, using the bumper spike as a pivot, reposition the saw for the next cut. Avoid repositioning more than necessary. Keep the guide bar fully engaged in the kerf. If the saw begins to pinch, insert a wedge. On the last cut, do not cut the hinge.

Plunge-Cut Method: (For timber diameter more than twice the guide bar length). First, cut a large, wide notch. Make a plunge cut in the center of the notch. Begin the plunge cut by applying the lower portion of the guide bar nose to the tree at an angle. Cut until depth of the kerf is about the same as the width of the guide bar. Next, align the saw in the direction the recess is to be cut. With the saw at full throttle, insert the guide bar into the trunk. Enlarge the plunge cut as needed. WARNING! There is an extreme danger of kickback at this point. Follow the sectioning method described previously to complete the felling cut.

Limbing is removing the branches from a fallen tree.

WARNING! There is an extreme danger of kickback during the limbing operation. Do not work with the nose of the bar. Be extremely cautious and avoid contacting the log or other limbs with the nose of the guide bar.

Do not stand on a log while limbing it – you may slip or the log may roll.

Start limbing by leaving the lower limbs to support the log off the ground. Always cut from the top of the limb downwards.

Do not underbuck freely hanging limbs. A pinch may result or the limb may fall, causing loss of control. If a pinch occurs, stop the engine and remove the saw by lifting the limb.

WARNING! Be extremely cautious when cutting limbs under tension. The limbs could spring back toward the operator and cause loss of control of the saw or injury to the operator.

1. When bucking, do not stand on the log. Make sure the log will not roll down-hill. If on a slope, stand on the up-hill side of the log. Watch out for rolling logs.

2. Cut only one log at a time.

3. Shattered wood should be cut very carefully. Sharp slivers of wood may be caught and flung in the direction of the operator.

4. When cutting small logs, use a sawhorse. Never permit another person to hold the log. Never hold the log with your leg or foot. At the end of the cut the weight of the chain saw will cause it to swing through; hold it firmly to control this.

5. For logs under strain: Make the first cut on the compression side to relieve the stress (typically the inside of the bend). Then make the bucking cut from the tension side (outside of the bend). If the saw pinches, stop the engine and remove it from the log.

6. Only properly trained professionals should work in blowdown areas where logs, limbs and roots are tangled.

7. Drag logs into a clear area before cutting. Pull out exposed and cleared logs first.

CAUTION: Always switch off the engine and pull the plug cap off the spark plug. Always wear protective gloves!

1. Use the universal wrench. Put the saw on a stable surface.

2. Release the chain brake by pulling the hand guard (1) back towards the handle.

3. Unscrew retaining nuts (2).

4. Pull off the sprocket guard (3).

5. Turn chain tensioning screw (4) counter-clockwise until the pin (5) is positioned correctly relative to the threaded pin (6).

6. Put on the guide bar (7). Ensure the pin (5) engages in the hole in the guide bar.

7. Lift the chain (9) over the sprocket (8).

8. Guide the chain into the groove (10) on the top of the guide bar. Cutting edges must point forward on the top of the bar.

9. Pull the chain (9) around the sprocket nose (11) of the guide bar.

10. Replace the sprocket guard (3). IMPORTANT: Lift the saw chain over the chain catcher (12).

11. Tighten the nuts (2) only hand-tight to begin with.

1. Turn the chain tensioning screw (4) clockwise until the saw chain fits snugly into the groove on the lower side of the guide bar.

2. Slightly lift the tip of the guide bar and continue turning the screw (4) clockwise until the chain rests against the bottom side of the guide bar without sagging.

3. While still holding up the tip of the guide bar, securely tighten the retaining nuts (2) with the universal wrench.

Checking: Stop the engine. The tension is correct if the chain rests against the bottom side of the guide bar and can still be easily turned by hand (wear gloves). The chain brake must be released. Check tension frequently, especially with new chains. NOTE: Turn the guide bar over whenever replacing the chain for uniform wear.

Retightening: Loosen the nuts (2) about one turn. Raise the tip of the guide bar slightly and turn the chain tensioning screw (4) clockwise until the chain is snug against the bottom edge. While keeping the tip raised, tighten the nuts (2) again securely.

CAUTION: Always switch off the engine and pull the plug cap off the spark plug. Always wear protective gloves!

1. Use the universal wrench. Put the saw on a stable surface.

2. Release the chain brake by pulling the hand guard (1) back.

3. Unscrew retaining nuts (2).

4. Pull off the sprocket guard (3).

5. Put the guide bar (4) on and push it against the sprocket (5).

6. Lift the chain (6) over the sprocket (5).

7. Guide the chain from above about halfway into the groove (7) on the guide bar. CAUTION: Note that the cutting edges along the top of the chain must point forward.

8. Pull the chain (6) around the sprocket nose (8) of the guide bar.

9. Replace the sprocket guard (3). IMPORTANT: Lift the saw chain over the chain catcher (9).

10. Tighten the nuts (2) only hand-tight to begin with.

1. Turn the QuickSet chain tensioner (10) clockwise using the combination tool, until the saw chain guide elements engage in the guide groove on the bottom of the guide bar (pull chain into position slightly if necessary).

2. Raise the tip of the guide bar slightly and turn the chain tensioner (10) further clockwise until the saw chain is flush against the bottom of the guide bar.

3. While still holding up the tip of the guide bar, tighten the retaining nuts (2) with the universal wrench.

NOTE: If the guide bar has been turned over, turn the chain tensioner counter-clockwise to tighten the chain.

Checking: Stop the engine. The tension is correct if the chain rests against the bottom side of the guide bar and can still be easily turned by hand (wear gloves). The chain brake must be released. Check tension frequently, especially with new chains. NOTE: Turn the guide bar over whenever replacing the chain for uniform wear.

Retensioning: Use the combination tool to loosen the fastening nuts (2) about one turn. Raise the tip of the guide bar slightly and turn the QuickSet chain tensioner (10) clockwise (or counter-clockwise if bar is flipped) until the saw chain is again flush against the bottom of the guide bar. While still holding up the tip of the guide bar, tighten the retaining nuts (2) with the universal wrench.

CAUTION: Always switch off the engine and pull the plug cap off the spark plug. Always wear protective gloves!

1. Place the saw on a stable surface.

2. Release the chain brake by pulling the hand guard (1) back.

3. Fold up the sprocket guard quick tensioner lever (2).

4. Push the quick tensioner lever (2) in forcefully against spring tension and slowly turn counter-clockwise until you feel it engage. Keep pushing, and turn as far as possible counter-clockwise.

5. Release the lever, turn it clockwise back to its original position. Repeat this push-and-turn procedure until the sprocket guard (4) is unscrewed.

6. Remove the sprocket guard (4).

7. Put the guide bar (5) on and push it against the sprocket (6).

8. Lift the chain (8) over the sprocket (7).

9. Guide the chain from above about halfway into the groove (9) on the guide bar. CAUTION: Note that the cutting edges along the top of the chain must point forward.

10. Pull the chain (8) around the sprocket nose (10) of the guide bar.

11. Align hole on sprocket guard (4) with the pin (11).

12. Turn the chain tensioner dial (3) to bring the chain tensioner pin (12) into alignment with the hole in the guide bar.

13. Push the sprocket guard (4) onto the pin (11).

1. Simultaneously push in hard on the sprocket guard quick tensioner lever (2) and turn it clockwise to screw the sprocket guard on, but do not fully tighten it yet.

2. Raise the tip of the guide bar slightly.

3. Turn the chain tensioner dial (3) clockwise until the saw chain is flush against the bottom of the guide bar.

4. Push the sprocket guard quick tensioner lever (2) in again and tighten fully by turning clockwise.

5. Release the sprocket guard chain tensioner lever until it turns freely, then fold it in between protective ribs (15).

Checking: Stop the engine. The tension is correct if the chain rests against the bottom side of the guide bar and can still be easily turned by hand (wear gloves). The chain brake must be released. Check tension frequently, especially with new chains. NOTE: Turn the guide bar over whenever replacing the chain for uniform wear.

Retensioning: Loosen the quick tensioner lever (2) slightly (push in and turn counter-clockwise). Tension the chain as described in the tightening procedure (lift bar tip, turn dial (3) clockwise, push lever (2) in and tighten clockwise, fold lever).

The EA3500S and EA3501S come with an inertia chain brake. If kickback occurs due to contact of the guide-bar tip with wood, the chain brake will stop the chain through inertia if the kickback is sufficiently strong, typically within a fraction of a second.

The chain brake is installed to block the saw chain before starting it and to stop it immediately in case of an emergency.

IMPORTANT: NEVER run the saw with the chain brake activated (except for testing). Doing so can very quickly cause extensive engine damage!

ALWAYS release the chain brake before starting work!

Engaging (braking): If kickback is strong enough, the sudden acceleration of the guide bar combined with the inertia of the hand guard (1) will automatically actuate the chain brake. To engage manually, push the hand guard (1) forward (towards the tip of the saw) with your left hand (arrow 1).

Releasing: Pull the hand guard (1) towards you (handle, arrow 2) until you feel it catch. The brake is now released.

This tool runs on a mixture of gasoline and two-stroke engine oil.

Use unleaded regular gasoline with a min. octane value of 89 (R+M)/2. Using fuel with a higher octane value is acceptable.

Use a synthetic oil for two-stroke air-cooled engines (quality grade: JASO FC or ISO-L-EGD).

The recommended mixture ratio is 50:1 when using MAKITA synthetic two-stroke engine oil (50 parts gasoline to 1 part oil).

If MAKITA synthetic oil is not available, use other synthetic two-stroke engine oils (JASO FC or ISO-L-EGD) at a 50:1 ratio.

Mixing procedure: First mix the entire oil quantity with half of the fuel required, then add the remaining fuel. Thoroughly shake the mixture before filling it into the chain saw tank.

Do not add more engine oil than specified; this causes higher combustion residues, pollutes the environment, clogs exhaust/muffler, increases fuel consumption, and decreases performance.

Storage: Fuels have limited storage life. Aged fuel can cause starting problems and engine damage. Purchase only the amount of fuel needed for the next few months. Use mixed fuel within 6-8 weeks, especially at high temperatures. Store fuel in approved, marked containers in dry, cool, secure locations.

AVOID SKIN AND EYE CONTACT with fuel/oil.

Use an oil with adhesive additive for lubricating the chain and guide bar. The adhesive prevents the oil from being flung off the chain too quickly.

Bio-degradable chain oil (like MAKITA BIOTOP) is recommended to protect the environment. It is made of special vegetable oils, is 100% bio-degradable, and is stable for about 2 years from the date of manufacture.

Important note on bio-degradable oils: If not using the saw for an extended period, empty the oil tank, add a small amount of regular engine oil (SAE 30), and run the saw briefly to flush the system. This prevents sticky residues from forming. Refill with BIOTOP next time.

NEVER USE WASTE OIL. It is dangerous, contains carcinogens, and causes high wear.

AVOID SKIN AND EYE CONTACT with chain oil.

FOLLOW SAFETY PRECAUTIONS! Be careful with fuels. The engine must be switched off!

1. Thoroughly clean the area around the fuel and oil caps to prevent dirt entry.

2. Unscrew the tank cap (use the universal wrench if needed).

3. Fill the fuel tank with the correct fuel mixture up to the bottom edge of the filling neck. Be careful not to spill.

4. Fill the chain oil tank with appropriate chain oil.

5. Screw both tank caps back on by hand all the way.

6. Clean the caps and surrounding area after refuelling.

Never work without sufficient chain lubrication. Check the oil level before starting work.

1. Start the chain saw.

2. Hold the running chain saw approx. 6″ (15 cm) above a trunk or the ground.

3. If lubrication is sufficient, a light oil trace will be flung off the chain onto the surface.

Note: Residual oil may drip after the saw is turned off; this is normal.

The engine must be switched off!

The oil pump feed rate can be adjusted with the adjusting screw (1) on the bottom side of the housing. The factory setting is minimum feed rate.

Use a small screwdriver:

Turn to the right for a faster oil feed rate.

Turn to the left for a slower oil feed rate.

Select one of the two settings (min/max) depending on guide bar length. Ensure there is enough chain oil in the tank while working.

Regularly clean the oil guide groove at the crank case (2) and the oil inlet bore (3) in the guide bar.

Ensure saw is assembled, checked, and away from fueling area. Ensure secure footing and clear area around bar/chain. Actuate the chain brake (push forward).

1. Prime the fuel pump (5) by pressing it several times until fuel is visible.

2. Move the combination switch (1) UP to the Choke position (this also sets half-throttle).

3. Pull the starter handle (2) smoothly and evenly (max 20″/50cm), guide it back slowly. Repeat twice.

4. Move the combination switch (1) down to the central “ON” position.

5. Pull the starter handle smoothly and evenly again.

6. As soon as the engine runs, grasp the rear handle (actuating safety lock button (3)) and press the throttle trigger (4) briefly to disengage the half-throttle lock and return engine to idle.

CAUTION: Engine must idle immediately after starting to avoid clutch damage.

7. Now disengage the chain brake (pull back).

Ensure saw is assembled, checked, and away from fueling area. Ensure secure footing and clear area around bar/chain. Actuate the chain brake (push forward).

1. Push the combination switch (1) UP (Choke position) and then immediately back down to the middle “ON” position. (This engages the half-throttle lock).

2. Pull the starter handle smoothly and evenly.

3. If the engine doesn’t start after 2-3 pulls, repeat the entire Cold Starting procedure.

NOTE: If the engine was switched off only briefly, it might start without using the combination switch (i.e., without setting half-throttle).

Important: If the fuel tank ran empty, prime the fuel pump (5) several times until fuel is visible before attempting to start.

4. Once running, briefly press the throttle trigger (4) to return engine to idle.

5. Disengage the chain brake.

Depress the combination switch (1) down to the STOP position.

NOTE: The switch will spring back to the ON position, but the engine remains off until restarted.

IMPORTANT: To fully cut off ignition current for maintenance/storage, push the combination switch all the way down past the resistance point to the safety position (symbol).

Check before every use!

1. Start the engine (ensure secure footing, clear area).

2. Hold the front handle firmly, other hand on the rear grip.

3. Let the engine run at medium speed.

4. Push the handguard (6) forward using the back of your hand until the chain brake engages.

5. The chain should stop immediately.

6. Bring the engine back to idle and release the chain brake.

Caution: If the chain does not stop immediately, turn off the engine immediately. Do NOT use the chain saw! Contact a MAKITA service center.

CAUTION: Carburetor adjustment other than idle speed must only be done by a specialist MAKITA service center!

Adjust only the idle speed screw (T) if the saw chain moves at idle.

Idle speed adjustment must only be done when the engine is warm, with a clean air filter and properly installed guide bar and chain.

Use a screwdriver (4 mm blade):

Turn adjusting screw (T) counter-clockwise (unscrew): Idle speed decreases.

Turn adjusting screw (T) clockwise (screw in): Idle speed increases.

Adjust until the chain does not move at idle.

Important: If the saw chain still moves during idle after adjustment, do NOT use the saw. Take it to a MAKITA service center!

CAUTION: Switch off engine, pull spark plug cap, wear gloves!

Sharpen when:

Sawdust looks like wood flour (when sawing damp wood).

Chain penetrates only under great pressure.

Cutting edge is visibly damaged.

Saw pulls to one side (caused by uneven sharpening).

Important: Sharpen frequently, removing only a little metal (2-3 file strokes usually enough). Have it professionally resharpened after several self-sharpenings.

Proper sharpening:

Use only chains/bars designed for this saw.

All cutters must have the same length (dimension a). Different lengths cause rough running and chain cracks.

Minimum cutter length: 0.11″ (3 mm). Replace chain when reached.

Depth gauge setting (difference between depth limiter and cutting edge): .025″ (0.64 mm).

CAUTION: Excessive depth gauge lowering increases kickback risk!

Sharpening angle (α) must be identical for all cutters: 30° for chain types 492 (91PX), 290 (90SG), 291 (90PX).

Top plate filing angle (β) is achieved automatically with the correct file: 80° for 492 (91PX), 75° for 290 (90SG), 291 (90PX).

Use a special saw chain round file. Standard round files are unsuitable.

Type 492 (91PX): Use 5/32″ (4.0 mm) dia. round file.

Type 290 (90SG), 291 (90PX): Use 11/64″ (4.5 mm) dia. round file.

File only on the forward stroke. Lift file on backward stroke.

Sharpen the shortest cutter first; its length becomes the standard for all others.

File new teeth to match the shape of used teeth.

File at 90° to the guide bar.

A file holder helps maintain the correct angle (α = 30°) and limits cut depth to 4/5 of file diameter.

After sharpening, check depth limiter height with a chain gauge. File down any excess height with a special flat file (1). Round off the front of the depth limiter (2).

CAUTION: Switch off engine, pull spark plug cap, wear gloves!

1. Remove the sprocket guard (1) (refer to mounting instructions for your model).

2. Clean out the interior with a brush.

3. Remove the chain (2) and guide bar (3).

4. Ensure no residues remain in the oil guide groove (4) or on the chain tensioner (5).

5. Reinstall guide bar, chain, and sprocket guard per instructions.

NOTE: The chain brake is a safety device subject to wear. Regular inspection and maintenance by a MAKITA service center are important.

CAUTION: Wear protective gloves!

Regularly inspect the bearing surfaces (7) of the guide bar for damage and clean them with a suitable tool.

Keep the two oiling holes (6) and the entire guide bar clean and free of foreign matter!

CAUTION: Use only chains/bars designed for this saw. Switch off engine, pull spark plug cap, wear gloves!

1. Check the sprocket (8) before mounting a new chain. Worn sprockets damage new chains and must be replaced.

2. Remove the sprocket guard (see “PUTTING INTO OPERATION”).

3. Remove the old chain and guide bar.

4. Remove the circlip (9). CAUTION: Hold your thumb against it to prevent it popping off.

5. Remove the shim washer (11).

6. If the sprocket (8) is worn, the complete clutch drum (12) needs replacement. Obtain the correct part number.

7. Install a new clutch drum (12) (if needed), shim washer (11), and new circlip (9).

8. Reinstall the guide bar and new chain (see “PUTTING INTO OPERATION”).

NOTE: Don’t use a new chain on a worn sprocket. Replace the sprocket at least every second chain replacement. Run a new chain at half-throttle for a few minutes to distribute oil. New chains stretch; check tension frequently.

CAUTION: Wear eye protection when using compressed air! Do not use fuel to clean!

1. Insert the universal wrench vertically through the slotted plug (*).

2. Loosen the screw (1) counter-clockwise and remove the hood (2).

3. Push up the combination switch (3) (Choke position) to prevent dirt entering the carburetor.

4. Pull the air filter cover tab (4) slightly and remove the air filter cover.

5. Remove the air filter (5).

6. IMPORTANT: Cover the carburetor intake opening with a clean cloth.

7. If very dirty, clean the filter in lukewarm water with dishwashing detergent. Let it dry completely.

8. If lightly dirty, tap it out or blow clean with compressed air from the inside out.

9. Clean frequently (several times a day if needed) for full engine power.

CAUTION: Replace damaged air filters immediately. Dirt particles can destroy the engine!

Reassembly:

1. Insert the air filter (5).

2. Put on the air filter cover. Ensure the tab (4) engages properly.

3. Push down the combination switch (3) and press the throttle (6) fully once to deactivate the throttle lock.

4. Put on the hood (2). Ensure lower pins (7) on both sides engage properly (pins should not be visible).

5. Tighten screw (1) clockwise.

CAUTION: Do not touch spark plug/cap if engine is running (high voltage). Switch off engine, let it cool, wear gloves!

Replace if insulator is damaged, electrodes are eroded/burnt, or electrodes are very dirty/oily.

1. Remove the hood/filter cover (see “Cleaning the air filter”).

2. Pull the plug cap (8) off the spark plug.

3. Use the combination wrench supplied with the saw to remove the spark plug.

4. Set the electrode gap on the new plug to .023″ (0.6 mm).

5. Install the new spark plug and tighten securely.

6. Push the plug cap firmly back on.

7. Reinstall the hood/cover.

CAUTION: Use only spark plug NGK CMR6A.

CAUTION: Wear protective gloves!

1. Loosen the spark plug (9).

2. Reconnect the ignition cable firmly.

3. Using insulated pliers, press the spark plug body firmly against the cylinder (away from the spark plug opening).

4. Put the combination switch (10) in the “ON” position.

5. Pull the starter cable hard.

6. If ignition is working correctly, a spark must be visible between the electrodes.

CAUTION: Switch off engine, let it cool, wear gloves!

1. Unscrew 3 screws (11) and remove the upper half of the muffler (12). (For models with catalytic converters, remove converter with upper half).

2. The screws on the bottom muffler half (13) are now accessible.

3. Check them for tightness. If loose, tighten by hand (Caution: do not over-tighten).

4. Reassemble the upper muffler half (and converter if applicable) and tighten screws (11).

CAUTION: Injury hazard! Wear eye protection and gloves! Do not disassemble if spring is under tension.

1. Unscrew three screws (1) and remove fan housing (2).

2. Remove air guide (3) from fan housing.

3. If spring (13) is tensioned, de-tension it first: Pull cable fully out, hold drum, push cable into space (14), carefully let drum unwind.

4. Unscrew screw (7), remove driver (8) and spring (6).

5. Carefully remove cable drum (5).

6. Remove old cable pieces.

7. Thread new cable (dia. 3 mm, length 900 mm) through drum (5) (with washer (10)) and starter grip (9). Knot both ends securely.

8. Pull knot (11) into drum (5). Pull knot (12) into starter grip (9).

9. Put drum (5) on spindle, turn slightly until return spring engages.

10. Place spring (6) in driver (8), place together in drum (5), turning slightly counter-clockwise.

11. Insert screw (7) and tighten.

12. Guide cable into slot (14) on drum.

13. Wind cable onto drum by turning drum clockwise three times.

14. Hold drum, untwist cable, pull tight and hold.

15. Carefully release drum. Spring will wind cable.

16. Repeat procedure (step 13-15) once more.

17. Starter grip should now stand straight up. Check tension: with cable fully pulled out, it should be possible to turn pulley another 1/4 turn against spring.

18. Reassemble air guide (3) and mount fan housing (2) (see Mounting instructions).

CAUTION: Injury hazard! Spring can pop out! Wear eye protection and gloves!

1. Disassemble fan housing and cable drum as for cable replacement (de-tension spring first!).

2. Hold fan housing with hollow side down on a wooden surface.

3. Lightly tap the fan housing while holding it down.

4. Carefully lift the housing in small steps. The return spring pack (13) should fall out and relax in a controlled manner.

5. Carefully insert a new return spring cassette (pack) and press down until it engages.

6. Reassemble cable drum, spring (6), driver (8), screw (7).

7. Tension the spring as described in starter cable replacement.

8. Reassemble fan housing.

If the spring (6) in the Featherlight-Starting system is broken, more effort is needed to start, and you’ll notice resistance when pulling the cable. Check spring (6) during cable/spring pack replacement and replace if necessary following the disassembly/reassembly steps.

1. Insert the air guide (3) into the fan housing so the three recesses (4) engage. 2. Position the fan housing against the engine housing. 3. Press against it lightly and pull the starter grip until the starter engages. 4. Tighten the three screws (1).

CAUTION: Wear eye protection when using compressed air!

1. Remove the cover (hood).

2. Remove the fan housing.

3. The entire area (15) including fins can now be brushed clean or cleaned with compressed air.

After removing the fan housing, use a bottle brush to clean the cylinder fins to ensure proper cooling.

CAUTION: Switch off engine, wear gloves!

The felt filter (16) can become clogged. Replace it once every three months for unimpeded fuel flow.

1. Open the fuel tank cap.

2. Use a piece of wire bent into a hook to pull the suction head out through the tank filler neck.

3. Pull the old filter off the fuel line and push the new one on.

4. Place the suction head back into the tank.

5. Close the fuel tank cap.

CAUTION: Switch off engine, let muffler cool, wear gloves!

Check and clean regularly.

1. Unscrew 3 screws (11) and remove the upper half of the muffler (12).

2. Remove the spark arrester screen (14).

3. Clean the screen with a brush. Replace if damaged.

Caution: Do not use sharp objects for cleaning. Damaged screens may result.

4. Reassemble the spark arrester screen and the upper muffler half.

5. Tighten the screws (11).

Frequency	Component	Action	Notes
General	Chain saw	Clean exterior, check for damage	Repair damage at qualified service center immediately
	Saw chain	Sharpen regularly, replace in good time	See Sharpening Section
	Chain brake	Have inspected regularly at an authorized service center
	Guide bar	Turn over for even wear, Replace in good time	See Chain/Bar Section
Before each start	Starter cable	Check for damage. Replace if damaged.	See Maintenance Section
	Saw chain	Inspect for damage and sharpness	See Sharpening Section
	Chain tension	Check chain tension	See Tensioning Section
	Guide bar	Check for damage
	Chain lubrication	Functional check	See Lubrication Section
	Chain brake, Combination switch, Safety locking button, Throttle lever	Functional check	See Operation/Brake Sections
Fuel/oil tank cap	Check for tightness and leakages
Every day	Air filter	Clean (several times daily if necessary)	See Maintenance Section
	Guide bar	Check for damage, clean oil intake bore	See Maintenance Section
	Guide bar support	Clean, in particular the oil guide groove	See Lubrication/Maintenance Sections
	Idle speed	Check (chain must not run)	See Adjustment Section
Every week	Fan housing	Clean to maintain good cooling air flow.	See Maintenance Section
	Air filter compartment		See Maintenance Section
	Fan compartment		See Maintenance Section
	Cylinder fins		See Maintenance Section
	Spark plug	Check and replace if necessary	See Maintenance Section
	Muffler	Check tightness of mounting, Check screws	See Maintenance Section
	Chain guide, Screws and nuts	Check condition and that they are firmly secured.
Spark arrester screen	Clean and replace if necessary	See Maintenance Section
Every 3 months	Fuel filter (Suction head)	Replace	See Maintenance Section
	Fuel, oil tanks	Clean
Annually	Chain saw	Check at an authorized service center
Storage	Chain saw	Clean exterior, check for damage	Repair damage at qualified service center immediately
	Guide bar/chain	Demount, clean and oil slightly, Clean guide groove	See Maintenance Section
	Fuel, oil tanks	Empty and clean
	Carburetor	Run empty

Malfunction	System	Observation	Possible Cause
Chain does not run	Chain brake	Engine runs	Chain brake actuated.
Engine does not start or only with difficulty	Ignition system	Ignition spark	Malfunction in fuel supply system, compression system, mechanical malfunction.
		No ignition spark	STOP switch in safety position, fault/short-circuit in wiring, Spark plug cap or spark plug defective.
	Fuel supply	Fuel tank is filled	Combination switch in Choke position, carburetor defective, suction head dirty, fuel line bent or interrupted.
	Compression system	Inside	Cylinder base packing ring defective, radial shaft packings defective, cylinder or piston rings defective.
		Outside	Spark plug does not seal.
Mechanical malfunction		Starter does not engage	Spring in starter broken, broken parts inside the engine.
Warm start difficulties	Carburetor	Fuel tank is filled / Ignition spark OK	Wrong carburetor adjustment.
Engine starts, but dies immediately	Fuel supply	Fuel tank is filled	Wrong idling adjustment, suction head or carburetor dirty. Tank venting defective, fuel line interrupted, cable defective, Combination switch defective.
Insufficient power	Several systems may be involved simultaneously	Engine is idling	Air filter dirty, wrong carburetor adjustment, muffler clogged, exhaust channel in cylinder clogged, spark arrester screen clogged.
No chain lubrication	Oil tank/pump	No oil on the chain	Oil tank empty. Oil guide groove dirty. Oil-pump adjusting screw incorrectly adjusted.

Stroke volume	cu. in (cm)³	2.1 (35)
Bore	inch (mm)	1.50 (38)
Stroke	inch (mm)	1.20 (30.6)
Max. power at speed	kW / 1/min	2.3 / 10,000
Max. torque at speed	N·m / 1/min	2.0 / 7,000
Idling speed/max. engine speed with bar and chain	rpm	2,800 / 13,100
Coupling speed	rpm	4,100
Sound pressure level at the operator’s ear (ISO 22868)	dB (A)	101.7
Carburetor Type	Type	diaphragm carburetor
Ignition system Type	Type	electronic
Spark plug Type	Type	NGK CMR6A
Electrode gap	inch (mm)	.023 (0.6)
Fuel consumption at max. load per ISO 7293	kg/h	0.68
Specific consumption at max. load per ISO 7293	g/kWh	500
Fuel tank capacity	floz	13.5
Chain oil tank capacity	floz	9.5
Mixture ratio (fuel/two-stroke oil)		50:1 (with MAKITA synthetic or other JASO FC / ISO EGD oil)
Chain brake		engages manually or in case of kickback
Sprocket pitch	inch	3/8
Number of teeth	Z	6
Weight (fuel tank empty, without chain, guide bar and accessories)	lbs	9.70	9.92

Saw chain type	Pitch (inch)	Gauge (inch (mm))	Guide bar type	Length of cut (inch (mm))	No. of drive links
492 (91PX)	3/8″	0.050″ (1.3)	Sprocket nose bar	12″ (300)	46
				14″ (350)	52
				16″ (400)	56
290 (90SG), 291 (90PX)	3/8″	0.043″ (1.1)	Sprocket nose bar	12″ (300)	46
				14″ (350)	52

WARNING: Use appropriate combination of the guide bar and saw chain. Otherwise personal injury may result.