MARTHA STEWART MTS-ECS14 (01) PDF Document

This MARTHA STEWART MTS-ECS14 electric chain saw was designed and manufactured for trimming and pruning tree limbs and branches and for cutting smaller logs up to 12.5 in. (31.8 cm) thick. All of the wooden objects intended to be cut with this chain saw should be no thicker than the guide bar’s maximum cutting capabilities.

Any use differing from the intended applications poses a serious hazard to the user and may damage both the tool and your personal property. Examples of improper use for the MARTHA STEWART MTS-ECS14 include, but are not limited to:

• trimming hedges;

• carving;

• sectioning pallets, crates, and various packing materials;

• sectioning furniture or other materials with nails, screws, or other metal components;

• butchering meat;

• using the machine to lift, move, or split objects;

• using the machine while fastened to fixed supports.

Improper use of the machine will invalidate the warranty and relieve the manufacturer from all liabilities.

When using electric yard tools, basic safety precautions should always be followed to reduce the risk of fire, electric shock, and personal injury, including the following:

1. Keep guards in place – Protective guards should be checked periodically to ensure they are properly fitted and in correct working order.

2. Remove adjusting keys and wrenches – Check that adjusting wrenches are removed from the saw before turning it on.

3. Keep work area clean and well-lit – Clear work area of branches and limbs after each cutting session. Cluttered areas invite accidents.

4. Avoid dangerous conditions – Do not use this machine in rainy, stormy, damp, or wet locations. Do not operate the unit in gaseous or explosive atmospheres. Motors in these units normally spark, and the sparks may ignite fumes.

5. Do not use the chain saw in the rain.

6. Keep bystanders and children away – All bystanders, including children and pets, should be kept a safe distance away from the work area.

7. Do not force the tool – It will do the job effectively and safely if it is used at the rate for which it was designed.

8. Use the right tool – Do not force the tool or any attachment on the tool to do a job for which it was not intended.

9. Wear proper apparel – Do not wear loose articles of clothing or jewelry since such items may get caught in moving parts. Wearing heavy-duty rubber gloves, substantial non-skid footwear, and close-fitting clothing is recommended when working outdoors with power tools.

10. Wear protective hair coverings to contain long hair.

11. Always wear safety glasses and ear defenders to provide eye and ear protection – Everyday eyeglasses only have impact resistant lenses and do not provide the same protection as safety glasses.

12. Wear face or dust masks – If the cutting operation is dusty, the use of a face or dust mask specially designed to filter out microscopic particles is recommended.

13. Do not overreach – Keep proper footing and balance at all times.

14. Maintain tools with care – Keep tools sharp and clean for the best and safest performance. Follow instructions for lubricating and changing accessories.

15. Disconnect tool – Disconnect the chain saw from the power supply when not in use, before servicing, when transporting, or when changing the chain or other accessories.

16. Reduce the risk of unintentional starting – Make sure the switch is in the OFF position before plugging the tool into a power source.

17. Use recommended accessories – Consult the owner’s manual for recommended accessories. The use of improper accessories may cause risk of injury.

18. Check for damaged parts – Before each use, repair or replace any guard or part that is damaged. In addition, check for alignment of moving parts, binding of moving parts, breakage of parts, and any other conditions that may affect the tool’s operation.

19. Never leave tool unattended while it is running – Turn the power OFF by removing the power cord directly from its socket. Do not leave the saw until the cutting bar comes to a complete stop.

20. Avoid unintentional starting – Do not carry the chain saw with your finger on the switch.

21. Do not grasp the exposed cutting blade or cutting edges when picking up or holding the saw – Be sure to encase the cutting bar in its protective sheath when not in use.

22. Stay alert – Watch what you are doing. Use common sense. Do not operate the chain saw when you are tired.

23. Store idle tool indoors – When not in use, appliances should be stored indoors in a dry and high or locked-up place out of the reach of children.

Turn off the power switch and disconnect the power source before adjusting, inspecting, servicing or cleaning the power tool, when changing accessories, or when any other dangerous conditions present themselves. All maintenance tasks should be performed after the power tool’s rotating parts have stopped completely. Such preventive safety measures reduce the risk of starting the power tool accidentally.

1. Do not force the power tool. Use the correct power tool for your application. The correct power tool will perform better with less likelihood of personal or mechanical damage if it is used at the rate for which it was designed.

2. Do not use the power tool if the switch does not turn it on and off. Any power tool that cannot be controlled with the switch is dangerous and must be repaired.

3. Disconnect the unit from its power source before making any adjustments, changing accessories, or storing the power tool. Such preventive safety measures reduce the risk of starting the power tool accidentally.

4. Store idle power tools indoors in a dry, locked place out of the reach of children. Do not allow anyone who is unfamiliar with the power tool or these instructions access to the machine. Power tools are dangerous in the hands of untrained users.

5. Maintain power tools with care to ensure safe operation and optimal performance. Keep handles dry, clean, and free from oil and grease. Check for misalignment or obstruction of moving parts, breakage of parts, and any other condition that may affect the power tool’s operation. If damage is found, have the power tool repaired before use. Many accidents are caused by poorly maintained power tools.

6. Keep cutting tools sharp and clean. Properly maintained cutting tools with sharp cutting edges are less likely to jam and are easier to control.

7. Use the power tool and accessories in accordance with these instructions, and be sure to take into account the working conditions and the work to be performed. Using the power tool for operations other than those intended could result in a hazardous situation.

8. Moving parts presents risks. Keep your face, hair, clothing, hands, and feet away from all moving parts. All guards and safety attachments must be installed properly before using the power tool. Shut off and disconnect the power supply before touching any parts other than the handles and the switch.

1. Ground fault circuit interrupter (GFCI) protection should be provided on the circuit(s) or outlet(s) to be used for this electric chain saw. Receptacles are available having built-in GFCI protection and may be used for this measure of safety.

2. Make sure that the mains voltage matches that listed on the unit’s rating label. Using the improper voltage can damage the motor and injure the user.

3. To prevent electric shock, use only with an extension cord suitable for outdoor use, such as SW-A, SOW-A, STW-A, STOW-A, SJW-A, SJOW-A, SJTW-A, or SJTOW-A. Before use, check that the extension cord is in good condition. When using an extension cord, make sure to use one heavy enough to carry the current your product will draw. An undersized cord will cause a drop in line voltage resulting in loss of power and overheating.

Electric shock may cause SEVERE INJURY or DEATH. Heed these warnings:

• Do not allow any part of the electric chain saw to make contact with water while it is in operation. If the appliance becomes wet while turned off, wipe dry before starting.

• Use only a UL-, CSA-, or ETL-rated extension cord for outdoor, all-weather use.

• Do not use an extension cord over 100 ft (30 m).

• Do not touch the appliance or its plug with wet hands or while standing in water. Wearing rubber boots offers some protection.

4. To reduce the risk of electric shock, this appliance has a polarized plug (i.e. one blade is wider than the other). Use this appliance only with a polarized UL-, CSA-, or ETL-listed extension cord recommended for outdoor, all-weather use. The appliance plug will fit into a polarized extension cord only one way. If the appliance plug does not fit fully into the extension cord, reverse the plug. If the plug still does not fit, obtain a correct polarized extension cord. A polarized extension cord will require the use of a polarized wall outlet. If the plug does not fit fully into the wall outlet, reverse the plug. If the plug still does not fit, contact a qualified electrician to install the proper wall outlet. Do not modify the appliance plug, extension cord receptacle, or extension cord plug in any way.

5. To prevent the appliance cord from disconnecting from the extension cord during operation, use the extension cord restraint hook and/or make a knot.

6. Do not abuse the cord. Never pull the chain saw by the cord or yank the cord to disconnect it from the receptacle. Keep the cord away from heat, oil, and sharp edges.

To prevent the appliance cord from disconnecting from the extension cord during operation, you can make a knot as follows:

1. Tie the cord as shown in the manual (Table 1, A), which involves making a loop with the extension cord and passing the appliance cord through it.

2. Connect the plug and receptacle (Table 1, B).

In a double-insulated appliance like the MARTHA STEWART MTS-ECS14, two systems of insulation are provided instead of grounding. This eliminates the need for a separate grounding system. Servicing a double-insulated appliance requires extreme care and knowledge of the system and should be performed only by qualified service personnel. Replacement parts for a double-insulated appliance must be identical to the parts they replace. A double-insulated appliance is marked with the words “Double Insulation” or “Double Insulated,” or the symbol (square within a square).

• Keep all parts of the body away from the saw chain when the chain saw is operating. Before you start the chain saw, make sure the saw chain is not contacting anything. A moment of inattention while operating the chain saw may cause entanglement of your clothing or body with the saw chain.

• Always hold the chain saw with your right hand on the rear handle and your left hand on the front handle. Holding the chain saw with a reversed hand configuration increases the risk of personal injury and should never be done.

• Wear safety glasses and hearing protection. If you are using the chain saw every day under normal conditions, you can be exposed to a noise level of 85 dB (A) or higher. Further protective equipment for head, hands, legs and feet is recommended. Adequate protective clothing will reduce personal injury by flying debris or accidental contact with the saw chain.

• Do not operate the chain saw in a tree. Operation of a chain saw while up in a tree may result in personal injury.

• Always keep proper footing and operate the chain saw only when standing on a fixed, secure and level surface. Slippery or unstable surfaces such as ladders may cause a loss of balance or control of the chain saw.

• When cutting a limb that is under tension, be cautious of spring back. When the tension in the wood fibers is released, the spring-loaded limb may strike the operator and/or throw the chain saw out of control.

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

• Carry the chain saw by the front handle with the chain saw switched off and away from your body. When transporting or storing the chain saw, always fit the guide bar cover. Proper handling of the chain saw will reduce the likelihood of accidental contact with the moving saw chain.

• Follow instructions for lubricating, chain tensioning and changing accessories. An improperly tensioned or poorly lubricated chain may either break or increase the chance for kickback.

• Keep handles dry, clean and free from oil and grease. Greasy, oily handles are slippery and can cause loss of control.

• Cut wood only. Do not use the chain saw for any other purpose. For example, do not use the chain saw to cut plastic, masonry or non-wood building materials. Using the chain saw in these incorrect ways could result in serious damage to you and your tool.

Kickback is the result of tool misuse and/or incorrect operating procedures or conditions. It occurs when the nose or tip of the guide bar (the kickback danger zone) 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 sudden reverse reaction, kicking the guide bar up and back towards the operator.

This sudden reaction may cause you to lose control of the saw, which could result in serious personal injury.

To avoid kickback, take the following precautions when operating your MARTHA STEWART MTS-ECS14:

• Maintain a firm grip (right hand on the rear handle and left hand on the front handle with thumbs and fingers encircling the respective handles) and position your body and arms to allow you to resist kickback forces. Kickback forces can be controlled by the operator if proper precautions are taken. Do not let go of the chain saw.

• Do not overreach and do not cut above shoulder height. This helps prevent unintended tip contact and enables better control of the chain saw in unexpected situations.

• Only use replacement bars and chains specified by the manufacturer. Incorrect replacement bars and chains may cause chain breakage and/or kickback.

• Follow the manufacturer’s sharpening and maintenance instructions for the saw chain. Decreasing the depth gauge height can lead to increased kickback.

• Always observe the safety regulations and follow the correct sawing techniques.

To ensure safe carrying of the chain saw, whenever the machine is to be handled or transported, you must:

• switch off the motor and wait for the chain to come to a complete stop;

• mount the guide bar cover;

• hold the machine using the hand grips and position the bar in the opposite direction to that used during operation.

When using a vehicle to transport the chain saw, fasten the tool firmly and position it so that it is not a danger to any passengers.

Before cutting, pruning, or delimbing for the first time, make sure:

• you have been specifically trained to use this type of equipment;

• you have carefully read the safety regulations and user instructions contained in this manual;

• you practice first on logs on the ground or attached to trestles/saw horses, in order to get familiar with the machine and the proper cutting techniques.

1. Wear suitable work clothes. Wear safety goggles.

2. Protect your power tool from moisture and rain. Moisture and rain can cause dangerous electrical and motor damage.

3. Do not use the power tool near vapors and flammable liquids.

4. Use the power tool only in dry conditions and at an ambient temperature of 50 – 104°F (10 – 40°C).

5. Store your power tool only in dry locations with an ambient temperature of 50 – 104°F (10 – 40°C). Protect the power tool from humidity and direct sunlight.

1. 14 in. cutting chain

2. 14 in. guide bar

3. Front hand guard

4. Front hand grip

5. Oil tank cap

6. Safety lock button

7. Rear handle

8. Trigger switch

9. Appliance cord

10. Extension cord restraint hook

11. Oil level indicator window

12. Chain/sprocket end cover

13. End cover nut

14. Hex key wrench/blade screwdriver

15. Cutting bar sheath

• Rated Voltage: 120 V ~ 60 Hz

• Motor: 9 A

• No Load Speed: 6300 rpm

• Bar/Chain Length: 14 in. (35.6 cm)

• Cutting Thickness Max: 13.5 in. (34.3 cm), Recommended: 12.5 in. (31.8 cm)

• Oil Tank Capacity: 4 fl oz (120 ml)

• Chain Speed: 37.7 ft/s (11.5 m/s)

• Weight: 7.7 lbs (3.5 kg)

• Electric chain saw

• 14 in. (35.6 cm) cutting chain (pre-mounted on bar)

• 14 in. (35.6 cm) guide bar

• Dual-tipped hex key wrench/blade screwdriver

• Cutting bar sheath

• Manual with registration card

Always wear heavy-duty gloves when handling the bar and chain. Ensure the tool is unplugged from the power supply before beginning.

1. Use the supplied hex key wrench to unscrew the end cover nut and remove the chain/sprocket end cover.

2. Lay out the new saw chain in a loop and straighten any kinks. THE SHARP SIDE OF THE TEETH MUST FACE AWAY FROM YOU AND IN THE DIRECTION OF THE CHAIN ROTATION INDICATED ON THE GUIDE BAR. If the teeth face backwards, turn the loop over.

3. Starting at the tip, mount the chain drive links into the bar groove, leaving a loop at the back of the bar. The chain will loosely fit until it is placed on the sprocket.

4. Hold the chain in position on the bar and place the loop around the sprocket. Fit the bar flush against the mounting surface so that the bar studs are in the long slot of the bar and the adjusting pin is in the chain tension pin hole.

5. While keeping the bar and chain flush against the mounting surface, adjust the chain tension as needed by adjusting the chain tensioner screw with the supplied flat-tip blade screwdriver. Turn the chain tensioner screw clockwise to tighten the chain, or counter-clockwise to loosen the chain.

6. Replace the chain/sprocket end cover by inserting the rear tab first into the rear tab slot and position the cover over the bar end. Tighten the end cover nut; leave the bar loose enough to move slightly for tension adjustment.

7. Remove all slack from the chain by turning the chain tensioner screw clockwise until the chain seats snugly against the bar with the drive links flush inside the bar groove.

NOTE: The chain is correctly tensioned when there is no sag on the underside of the guide bar; the chain is snug, but can be rotated by hand without binding.

8. Tighten the end cover nut completely using the hex key wrench.

NOTE: If the chain is too tight, it will not rotate. Loosen the end cover nut slightly and turn the chain tensioner 1/4 turn counterclockwise. Lift the tip of the guide bar up and retighten the end cover nut. Ensure that the chain can be rotated by hand without binding. A new chain tends to stretch; check the chain tension frequently, and adjust tension as required.

1. Disconnect the chain saw from the power supply.

2. Use the supplied hex key wrench to unscrew the end cover nut to remove the chain/sprocket end cover.

3. Remove the cutting bar and chain from the mounting surface.

4. Remove the old chain from the bar.

5. To lay out and install the new saw chain properly, follow steps 2 to 6 from the section “Installing the Guide Bar + Chain”.

Before performing any checks, make sure the unit is not connected to the power supply. Before starting work, please check the following:

• Check that all the screws on the machine and the guide bar are tightly fastened;

• Check that the chain is correctly tensioned, properly sharpened, and there are no signs of any damage;

• Check that hand grips and protection devices are clean and dry, correctly mounted, and securely fastened to the machine;

• Check that the trigger switch and the safety button move freely without forcing and return automatically and rapidly back to their neutral positions;

• Check that the trigger switch remains locked until the safety button is pressed;

• Make sure the cooling air vents are not clogged with sawdust or debris;

• Check that the chain’s oil level is not below the “MIN” level mark; if necessary, top up the oil to 1 cm from the rim of the filler.

NOTE: You must fill the chain oil tank with bar and chain oil before using your chain saw.

Before performing any checks, make sure the tool is unplugged from the power supply. The chain will continue to run for several seconds after turning off the tool.

1. Loosen the end cover nut until it is hand-tight. Use the flat-tip blade screwdriver to turn the chain tensioner screw clockwise to tension the chain. A cold chain will be correctly tensioned when there is no slack on the underside of the guide bar; the chain is snug, but it can be turned by hand without binding.

2. The tension is correct when the drive links on the chain do not slip out of the chain guide on the bar when the chain is pulled up from the middle of the bar.

Failure to lubricate the chain will cause damage to the chain and bar. Use a good quality bar and chain oil designed specifically for use with chain saws. It is normal for oil to seep from the saw when not in use. To prevent seepage, empty the oil tank after each use. When storing the unit for a long period of time (3 months or longer), be sure the chain is lightly lubricated. This will prevent rust on the chain and the bar sprocket.

1. Before starting the chain saw, remove the oil tank cap and add bar and chain oil to the top of the oil level window. One minute of use will consume approximately 0.2 fl oz (6 ml) of oil. Refill when the oil level drops to 1/4 of a tank.

2. Connect the electric chain saw to a working 120 V outlet using a heavy-duty outdoor extension power cord.

3. Make a loop in the power cord and push it up through the hole in the handle and around the cord restraint hook, then connect the extension cord to the appliance cord.

4. Make sure the guide bar is not touching the ground or any other object.

5. Hold the chain saw firmly with both hands.

6. To turn the tool ON, push and hold the safety lock button with your thumb, then squeeze the trigger with your fingers. Once the tool is running, release the safety lock button.

7. To turn the tool OFF, release the trigger switch.

NOTE: Do not press the trigger switch until you are ready to make a cut.

For your safety and that of others:

1. Do not use the machine without reading the instructions carefully. Become acquainted with the controls and the proper use of the machine. Learn how to stop the machine quickly.

2. Keep in mind that the operator or user is responsible for accidents or hazards occurring to other people or their property.

3. Always wear suitable clothing when using the machine. Wear anti-vibration gloves and other personal protective equipment.

4. Work only in daylight or good artificial light.

5. Take utmost care when working near metal fences.

6. Take care not to hit the bar hard against foreign objects or flying debris caused by the movement of the chain.

7. Do not operate the chain saw in a tree, on a ladder, or on a scaffold. This is extremely dangerous.

8. Use extreme caution when cutting small brush, saplings, or limbs under tension. Such slender and tense material may catch the saw and whip back towards you, pull you off balance, or spring back.

9. Do not cut vines and/or small underbrush.

10. Before you start the unit, make sure the chain saw is not contacting any object.

To respect people and the environment:

• Avoid using the machine in environments or at times of the day when it may disturb others.

• Scrupulously comply with local regulations and provisions for the disposal of waste materials after sawing.

• Scrupulously comply with local regulations and provisions for the disposal of oils, damaged parts, or any elements that have a strong impact on the environment.

• A certain amount of chain lubricating oil is released into the environment when the machine is running, so only use biodegradable oils made specifically for this use.

• To avoid the risk of fire, do not leave the machine with a hot motor on leaves or dry grass.

Checking the chain tension:

The chain tends to stretch gradually as you work, so you need to check its tension frequently. During the first period of use (or after replacing the chain), the chain tension must be checked more frequently due to settling of the chain. Never work with the chain loose, as it can be hazardous if the chain slips out of the guide rails. To adjust the chain tension, follow the instructions in “Adjusting the Chain Tension”.

Checking the oil delivery:

Never use the machine without lubrication! You can check the oil level in the tank through the transparent gauge. Make sure you fill up the oil tank every time you use the machine. For best results, use only a good quality bar and chain oil. Make sure the bar and the chain are in place when you check the oil delivery. Start the motor and check if the chain oil is delivered.

1. Weight should be balanced with both feet on solid ground.

2. Keep your left arm and elbow locked in a “straight arm” position to withstand any kickback force.

3. Your body should always be to the left of the chain line.

1. Small trees up to 6 – 7 inches in diameters are usually cut in a single cut. Notch cuts determine the direction the tree will fall.

2. Practice cutting a few small logs using the following techniques to get the feel of using the saw before you begin a major sawing operation.

3. Take the proper stance in front of the wood with the saw turned off.

4. Squeeze the trigger and let the chain accelerate to full speed before entering the cut.

5. Hold the saw with both hands firmly. Always keep your left hand on the front handle and your right hand on the rear handle so that your body is to the left of the chain line.

6. Keep the unit running the entire time you are cutting, maintaining a steady speed.

7. Let the chain do the work; exert only light downward pressure. If you force the cut, damage to the bar, chain, or unit can result.

8. Do not put the pressure on the saw at the end of the cut.

9. Always cut with both feet on solid ground to prevent falling.

10. Do not cut above chest height since it is difficult to control kickback forces with a saw held high.

When felling a tree, keep everyone a safe distance from the cutting area. The safest distance should be at least twice the height of the largest trees in the felling area.

I) When bucking and felling are performed by two or more people at the same time, the felling operation should be separated from the bucking operation by a distance of at least twice the height of the tree being felled.

II) The chain saw operator should stay on the uphill side of the terrain, as the tree is likely to roll or slide downhill after it is felled.

III) Plan an escape path and clear the appropriate area before starting to work. The escape path should extend back and diagonally to the rear of the expected line of fall.

IV) Before starting to fell, consider the natural lean of the tree, the location of larger branches, and the wind direction to help you judge the direction in which the tree will fall.

V) Remove dirt, stones, loose bark, nails, staples, and wire from the tree to be cut.

Notching undercut:

Make the notch 1/3 the diameter of the tree, perpendicular to the direction of the fall. Make the lower horizontal notching cut first. This will help to avoid pinching either the saw chain or the guide bar when the second notch is made.

Felling back cut:

I) Make the felling back cut at least 2 in. (50 mm) higher than the horizontal notching cut. Keep the felling back cut parallel to the horizontal notching cut. Strategically position the felling back cut so that enough wood 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.

II) As the felling 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 back and bind the saw chain, stop cutting before the felling back cut is complete and use wedges of wood, plastic, or aluminium to open the cut and drop the tree along the desired line of fall.

III) When the tree begins to fall, remove the chain saw from the cut, stop the motor, put the chain saw down, then use the retreat path planned. Stay alert for falling limbs overhead and watch your footing.

Limbing is the process in which branches are removed from a fallen tree. When limbing, leave larger lower limbs to support the log off the ground. Remove the small limbs in one cut. Branches under tension should be cut from the bottom up to avoid binding the chain saw. Pay special attention to where the branches are lying on the ground and recognize the risks: 1) the branches may be under tension; 2) the direction in which the branch will fall may differ from that anticipated; 3) the tree may be unstable after the branch has been cut.

Bucking is the process in which a log is cut into lengths. It is important to make sure your footing is firm and your weight is evenly distributed on both feet. When possible, the log should be raised and supported by the use of limbs, logs, or chocks. Follow these simple directions for easy cutting:

I) When the log is supported along its entire length, cut from the top (overbuck).

II) When the log is supported on one end, cut 1/3 the diameter from the underside (underbuck). Then make the finishing cut by overbucking to meet the first cut.

III) When the log is supported on both ends, cut 1/3 the diameter from the top (overbuck). Then make the finishing cut by underbucking the lower 2/3 to meet the first cut.

IV) It is easier to saw a log using the spiked bumper. Dig the spiked bumper into the log and use it as a pivot. Cut with an arched motion to make the bar penetrate the wood. Repeat several times if necessary, changing the point where you plant the spiked bumper.

When bucking on a slope, always stand on the uphill side of the log. When cutting through the log, maintain control by releasing the cutting pressure near the end of the cut without relaxing your grip on the chain saw handles. Do not let the chain contact the ground.

When you have finished your work:

• Switch off the motor and unplug the unit from the power source.

• Wait for the chain to stop and allow the machine to cool.

• Remove any traces of sawdust or oil deposits from the chain.

• If there is excessive dirt or resin build-up, disassemble the chain and place it in a container with a suitable cleanser. Then rinse it with clean water and treat it with a suitable anticorrosive spray before reassembling it on the machine.

• Fit the cutting bar sheath onto the bar before storing.

For your safety and that of others:

• Correct maintenance is essential to maintain the original efficiency and safety of the machine over time.

• Keep all nuts, bolts, and screws tight to be sure the equipment is in safe working condition.

• Never use the machine with worn or damaged parts. Damaged parts are to be replaced and never repaired.

• Only use original Snow Joe® + Sun Joe® replacement parts. Parts that are not of the same quality can seriously damage the equipment, compromise safety, and invalidate the warranty.

Always unplug the unit from the power source before performing any adjustments, maintenance, or repairs.

• Use protective gloves when handling the bar and chain.

• Keep the protective cutting bar sheath on, except when intervening directly on the bar or the chain.

• Never dispose of oils or other pollutants in unauthorized places.

Motor Cooling: To avoid overheating and damage to the motor, always keep the cooling air vents clean and free of sawdust and debris.

Check the chain tension before using the saw when the chain is cold. The correct tension of a cold chain is when there is no slack on the underside of the guide bar; the chain is snug, but you can rotate it by hand without binding.

During normal saw operation, the temperature of the chain will increase. The drive links of a correctly tensioned warm chain will hang approximately 0.050 in. (1.25 mm) out of the bar groove. Be aware that a chain tensioned while warm may be too tight upon cooling. Check the “cold tension” before next use. The chain must be re-tensioned whenever the flats on the drive links hang out of the bar groove.

NOTE: A new chain tends to stretch. Check the chain tension frequently and re-tension as needed.

Sharpening is necessary when:

• The sawdust looks like dust.

• Cutting becomes more difficult.

• The cut is not straight.

• Vibrations increase.

To ensure the chain saw works safely and efficiently, it is essential that the cutting components are well-sharpened. It is highly recommended to replace the chain once it loses its ability to cut cleanly and safely.

If you sharpen the chain yourself, use special round-section files with the diameter of 5/32 inch (4 mm). You need a certain amount of skill and experience to avoid damaging the cutting edges.

Sharpen the chain as follows:

• Secure the bar firmly, with the chain mounted, in a suitable vice.

• Tighten the chain if it is loose.

• Mount the file in the guide and then insert it in the tooth at a constant angle from the cutting edge.

• Sharpen in a forward motion a few times and repeat this on all the cutting edges facing the same way (right or left).

• To move the chain forward, use a screwdriver.

• Turn the bar over in the vice and repeat on all the other cutting edges.

• Check that the depth limiter tooth does not stick out farther than the inspection tool and file any projecting parts with a flat file, rounding off the edges.

• After sharpening, remove all traces of filing and dust and lubricate the chain in an oil bath.

Replace the chain whenever the length of the cutting edges decreases to 5 mm or less, or there is too much play between the links and the rivets.

When the guide bar shows signs of wear, turn it over on the saw to distribute the wear for maximum bar life. Feathering or burring of the bar rails is a normal process of bar wear. You should smooth such faults with a file as soon as they occur.

Replace a bar with any of the following faults:

• wear inside the bar rails permitting the chain to lay over sideways;

• bent guide bar;

• cracked or broken rails;

• spread rails.

Turn the saw over, check the underside of the guide bar, and make sure that the lubrication holes and chain groove are free from impurities.

Regularly check the condition of the sprocket and replace it when wear exceeds 0.5 mm. Do not mount a new chain with a worn sprocket or vice-versa.

After every work session, clean the machine thoroughly to remove all dust and debris and slide the bar sheath over the cutting bar. Repair or replace any faulty parts on the unit. Store the machine in a dry, locked place out of the reach of children.