239-1579
12"
20V BRUSHLESS 12’’ CHAINSAW
OPERATOR’S MANUAL
CAUTION:
To Reduce the Risk of Injury, User Must
Read and Understand the Operator’s Manual. Save These
Instructions For Future Reference.
For questions / comments, technical assistance or repair parts –
Please Call Toll Free: 1-866-917-4374 (M-F 8:30am-5:00pm EST).
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Safety Symbols ......................................................... Page 2
Safety Instructions ...................................................... Page 3
Overview ............................................................. Page 12
Specications ......................................................... Page 13
Assembly ............................................................ Page 14
Operation ............................................................ Page 14
Maintenance .......................................................... Page 22
Troubleshooting ....................................................... Page 29
Parts List ............................................................. Page 31
Schematic Drawing .................................................... Page 32
Warranty .............................................................Page 34
Page 2
SAFETY SYMBOLS
Some of these following symbols may be used on this machine. Please study them and learn
their meaning. Proper interpretation of these symbols will allow you to operate the machine
better and more safely.
WARNING:
To ensure safety and reliability, all repairs should be performed by a
qualified service technician.
Symbol
Name
Designation / Explanation
V Volts Voltage
A Amperes Current
Hz Hertz Frequency (cycles per second)
W Watts Power
kg Kilogram Weight
lbs Pounds Weight
n
o
No-load speed Rotational speed at no load
/min
Revolutions per min-
ute
Unit of speed
�
or d.c.
Direct current Type of characteristic of current
Do not expose to
rain.
The machine can’t be used in rain or let
outside under raining.
Read instruction
manual
To reduce the risk of injury, user must
read instruction manual.
Wear eye protection
Always wear safety goggles or safety
glasses with side shields and a full face
shield when operating this product.
Wear ear protection
Chain saw noise may damage your
hearing. Always wear sound barriers (ear
plugs or ear mufers) to protect your
hearing.
Guide bar tip kick-
back
Beware of chain saw kickback and avoid
contact with bar tip.
Two-handed hold Always use chain saw two-handed .
Page 3
The purpose of safety symbols is to attract your attention to possible dangers. The safety
symbols, and the explanations with them, deserve your careful attention and understanding.
The symbol warnings do not, by themselves, eliminate any danger. The instructions and
warnings they give are no substitutes for proper accident prevention measures.
WARNING:
Be sure to read and understand all safety instructions in this manual,
including all safety alert symbols such as “DANGER”, “WARNING” and “CAUTION” before
using this machine. Failure to follow all instructions listed below may result in electric
shock, fire, and/or serious personal injury.
SYMBOL MEANING
SAFETY ALERT SYMBOL: Indicates DANGER, WARNING, OR CAUTION. May be used in
conjunction with other symbols or pictographs.
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, could
result in minor or moderate injury.
NOTICE: (Without Safety Alert Symbol) Indicates a situation that may result in property
damage.
SAVE THESE INSTRUCTIONS!
SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS
Page 4
SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS
GENERAL MACHINE SAFETY
WARNINGS
WARNING:
Read all safety
warnings, instructions, illustrations and
specifications provided with this machine.
Failure to follow all instructions listed below
may result in electric shock, re and/or
serious injury.
SAVE ALL WARNINGS AND INSTRUCTIONS
FOR FUTURE REFERENCE.
The term “machine” in the warnings refers
to your mains-operated (corded) machine
or battery-operated (cordless) machine.
WORK AREA SAFETY
1. Keep work area clean and well lit.
Cluttered or dark areas invite accidents.
2. Do not operate machines in explosive
atmospheres, such as in the presence of
flammable liquids, gases or dust. Machines
create sparks which may ignite the dust or
fumes.
3. Keep children and bystanders away
while operating a machine. Distractions
can cause you to lose control.
ELECTRICAL SAFETY
1. Machine plugs must match the outlet.
Never modify the plug in any way. Do
not use any adapter plugs with earthed
(grounded) machines. Unmodied plugs
and matching outlets will reduce risk of
electric shock.
2. Avoid body contact with earthed
or grounded surfaces, such as pipes,
radiators, ranges and refrigerators. There
is an increased risk of electric shock if your
body is earthed or grounded.
3. Do not expose machines to rain or wet
conditions.
Water entering a machine will
increase the risk of electric shock.
4. Do not abuse the cord. Never use the
cord for carrying, pulling or unplugging the
machine. Keep cord away from heat, oil,
sharp edges or moving parts. Damaged or
entangled cords increase the risk of electric
shock.
5. When operating a machine outdoors,
use an extension cord suitable for outdoor
use. Use of a cord suitable for outdoor use
reduces the risk of electric shock.
6. If operating a machine in a damp
location is unavoidable, use a ground fault
circuit interrupter (GFCI) protected supply.
Use of an GFCI reduces the risk of electric
shock.
PERSONAL SAFETY
1. Stay alert, watch what you are doing
and use common sense when operating
a machine. Do not use a machine while
you are tired or under the influence of
drugs, alcohol or medication. A moment of
inattention while operating machines may
result in serious personal injury.
2. Use personal protective equipment.
Always wear eye protection. Protective
equipment such as a dust mask, non-skid
safety shoes, hard hat or hearing protection
used for appropriate conditions will reduce
personal injuries.
3. Prevent unintentional starting. Ensure
the switch is in the off-position before
connecting to power source and/or battery
pack, picking up or carrying the machine.
Carrying machines with your nger on the
switch or energizing machines that have the
switch on invites accidents.
Page 5
SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS
4. Remove any adjusting key or wrench
before turning the machine on. A wrench or
a key left attached to a rotating part of the
machine may result in personal injury.
5. Do not overreach. Keep proper footing
and balance at all times. This enables
better control of the machine in unexpected
situations.
6. Dress properly. Do not wear loose
clothing or jewelry. Keep your hair and
clothing away from moving parts. Loose
clothes, jewelry or long hair can be caught
in moving parts.
7. If devices are provided for the
connection of dust extraction and
collection facilities, ensure these are
connected and properly used.
Use of dust
collection can reduce dust-related hazards.
8. Do not let familiarity gained from
frequent use of machines allow you to
become complacent and ignore machine
safety principles.
A careless action can
cause severe injury within a fraction of a
second.
MACHINE USE AND CARE
1. Do not force the machine. Use the
correct machine for your application. The
correct machine will do the job better and
safer at the rate for which it was designed.
2. Do not use the machine if the switch
does not turn it on and off.
Any machine
that cannot be controlled with the switch is
dangerous and must be repaired.
3. Disconnect the plug from the power
source and/or remove the battery pack,
if detachable, from the machine before
making any adjustments, changing
accessories, or storing machines.
Such
preventive safety measures reduce the risk
of starting the machine accidentally.
4. Store idle machines out of the reach
of children and do not allow persons
unfamiliar with the machine or these
instructions to operate the machine.
Machines are dangerous in the hands of
untrained users.
5. Maintain machines and accessories.
Check for misalignment or binding of
moving parts, breakage of parts and
any other condition that may affect the
machine’s operation. If damaged, have
the machine repaired before use.
Many
accidents are caused by poorly maintained
machines.
6. Keep cutting machines sharp and clean.
Properly maintained cutting machines with
sharp cutting edges are less likely to bind
and are easier to control.
7. Use the machine, accessories and
machine bits etc. in accordance with
these instructions, taking into account
the working conditions and the work to
be performed.
Use of the machine for
operations different from those intended
could result in a hazardous situation.
8. Keep handles and grasping surfaces
dry, clean and free from oil and grease.
Slippery handles and grasping surfaces do
not allow for safe handling and control of the
machine in unexpected situations.
BATTERY MACHINE USE AND
CARE
1. Recharge only with the charger
specified by the manufacturer. A charger
that is suitable for one type of battery pack
may create a risk of re when used with
another battery pack.
2. Use machines only with specifically
designated battery packs.
Use of any other
battery packs may create a risk of injury and
re.
3. When battery pack is not in use, keep
it away from other metal objects, like
paper clips, coins, keys, nails, screws or
other small metal objects, that can make
a connection from one terminal to another.
Shorting the battery terminals together may
cause burns or a re.
Page 6
SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS
4. Under abusive conditions, liquid may
be ejected from the battery; avoid contact.
If contact accidentally occurs, flush with
water. If liquid contacts eyes, additionally
seek medical help. Liquid ejected from the
battery may cause irritation or burns.
5. Do not use a battery pack or machine
that is damaged or modified. Damaged or
modied batteries may exhibit unpredictable
behavior resulting in re, explosion or risk of
injury.
6. Do not expose a battery pack or
machine to fire or excessive temperature.
Exposure to re or temperature above
265 °F (130 °C) may cause explosion.
7. Follow all charging instructions and do
not charge the battery pack or machine
outside the temperature range specified
in the instructions. Charging improperly or
at temperatures outside the specied range
may damage the battery and increase the
risk of re.
SERVICE
1. Have your machine serviced by a
qualified repair person using only identical
replacement parts. This will ensure that the
safety of the machine is maintained.
2. Never service damaged battery
packs. Service of battery packs should
only be performed by the manufacturer or
authorized service providers.
CHAINSAW SAFETY WARNINGS
1. Keep all parts of the body away
from the saw chain when the chainsaw
is operating. Before you start the
chainsaw, make sure that the saw chain
is not contacting anything. A moment of
inattention while operating chainsaws may
cause entanglement of your clothing or
body with the chain.
2. Always hold the chainsaw with your
right hand on the rear handle and your
left hand on the front handle. Holding the
chainsaw with a reversed hand conguration
increases the risk of personal injury and
should never be done.
3. Hold the chainsaw by insulated gripping
surfaces only, because the saw chain
may contact hidden wiring. Saw chains
contacting a “live” wire may make exposed
metal parts of the chainsaw “live” and could
give the operator an electric shock.
4. Wear eye protection. Further protective
equipment for hearing, head, hands, legs
and feet is recommended. Adequate
protective equipment will reduce personal
injury from ying debris or accidental
contact with the saw chain.
5. Do not operate a chainsaw, on a ladder,
from a rooftop, or any unstable support.
Operation of a chainsaw in this manner
could result in serious personal injury.
6. Always keep proper footing and
operate the chainsaw only when standing
on fixed, secure and level surface. Slippery
or unstable surfaces may cause a loss of
balance or control of the chainsaw.
7. When cutting a limb that is under
tension, be alert for spring back. When the
tension in the wood bers is released, the
spring loaded limb may strike the operator
and/or throw the chainsaw out of control.
8. 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.
9. Carry the chainsaw by the front handle
with the chainsaw switched off and away
from your body. When transporting or
storing the chainsaw, always fit the guide
bar cover. Proper handling of the chainsaw
will reduce the likelihood of accidental
contact with the moving saw chain.
Page 7
10. Follow instructions for lubricating,
chain tensioning and changing the bar and
chain. Improperly tensioned or lubricated
chain may either break or increase the
chance for kickback.
11. Cut wood only. Do not use chainsaw for
purposes not intended. For example: do
not use chainsaw for cutting metal, plastic,
masonry or non-wood building materials.
Use of the chainsaw for operations different
than intended could result in a hazardous
situation.
12. Do not attempt to fell a tree until you
have an understanding of the risks and
how to avoid them. Serious injury could
occur to the operator or bystanders while
felling a tree.
13. Do not operate a chainsaw in a tree
unless you have been specifically trained
to do so. Operation of a chainsaw in a tree
without proper training could increase the
risk of serious personal injury.
CAUSES AND OPERATOR PRE-
VENTION OF KICKBACK
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
sudden reverse reaction, kicking the guide
bar up and back towards the operator.
Pinching the saw chain along the top of the
guide bar may push the guide bar rapidly
back towards 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 chainsaw user, you should
take several steps to keep your cutting jobs
free from accident or injury.
SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS
Kickback is the result of machine misuse
and/or incorrect operating procedures or
conditions and can be avoided by taking
proper precautions as given below:
Maintain a firm grip, with thumbs and
fingers encircling the chainsaw handles,
with both hands on the saw and position
your body and arm 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
chainsaw.
Do not overreach and do not cut
above shoulder height. This helps prevent
unintended tip contact and enables better
control of the chainsaw 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.
Page 8
SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS
KICKBACK SAFETY DEVICE ON
THIS CHAINSAW
CHAIN BRAKE
FIG. A
Front Hand Guard
/Chain Brake in
Operating Position
Front Hand Guard
/ Chain Brake in
Brake Position
The chainsaw comes equipped with a chain
brake, which stops both the motor and the
motion of the chain when kickback occurs.
The chain brake can be activated by the
forward motion of the front hand guard /
chain brake as the saw rotates backward
during kickback.
Make sure that the chain brake is working
properly before using the chainsaw. The
front hand guard / chain brake should move
back and forth easily.
To test the operation of the chain brake,
perform the following steps (FIG. A):
Place the chainsaw on a at, bare surface
and make sure no objects or obstructions
that could come in contact with the bar and
chain are in the immediate vicinity.
Disengage the chain brake by pulling the
front hand guard / chain brake towards the
front handle.
Start the chainsaw.
Push the front hand guard / chain brake
towards the front of the saw. A properly
functioning hand brake will stop the
movement of the chain immediately. If the
chain brake is not working properly, do not
use the chainsaw until it has been repaired
by a qualied service technician.
WARNING:
Never modify or attempt to disable the
chain brake.
Conrm that the chain brake works
properly before each use.
If the chain brake is clogged with wood
chips, the function of the chain brake may
deteriorate. Always keep the tool clean.
ADDITIONAL WARNINGS
FIG. B
A chainsaw is intended for two-handed
use (FIG. B). Serious injury to the operator,
helpers, and/or bystanders can result from
one-handed operation.
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, fence, or any other obstruction
that could be hit while you are operating the
saw.
Page 9
SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS
Always cut with the unit running at full
speed. Fully squeeze the switch trigger and
maintain cutting speed.
FIG. C
Rotational Kickback
FIG. D
Kickback Danger Zone
FIG. E
Pinch
Kickback
Linear Kickback
With a basic understanding of kickback,
you can reduce or eliminate the element of
surprise (FIG. C–FIG. E). Sudden surprise
contributes to accidents.
Keep proper footing and balance at all
times.
Avoid unintentional contact with the
stationary saw chain or guide bar rails.
These can be very sharp. Always wear
gloves and long pants or chaps when
handling the chainsaw, saw chain, or guide
bar.
Never operate a chainsaw that is
damaged or improperly adjusted or that is
not completely and securely assembled
.
Be sure that the saw chain stops moving
when the trigger switch is released.
Inspect the workpiece for nails, wire,
or other foreign objects prior to cutting.
When bucking, secure the workpiece prior
to cutting. When felling or pruning, identify
and secure hazardous branches
.
Aggressive or abusive cutting or misuse
of the chainsaw can cause premature bar,
chain, and/or sprocket wear, as well as a
broken chain or bar, leading to kickback,
chain throw or the ejection of material.
Never use the guide bar as a lever.
A
bent guide bar can cause premature bar,
chain, and/ or sprocket wear, as well as a
broken chain or bar, leading to kickback,
chain throw or the ejection of material.
Cut only one workpiece at a time.
Page 10
SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS
Push and Pull–The reaction force is
always opposite to the direction the chain is
moving where wood contact is made. Thus,
the operator must be ready to control the
PULL when cutting on the bottom edge of
the bar, and the PUSH when cutting along
the top edge (FIG. F).
FIG. F
Push
Pull
Plan the work, ensuring an obstacle-
free work area and, in the case of felling, at
least one escape path from the falling tree.
When felling, keep bystanders at least
two tree lengths away.
IMPORTANT SAFETY
INSTRUCTIONS
1. To reduce the risk of electric shock or
damage to the chargers and batteries, use
only with the MASTERFORCE
®
20V battery
packs and chargers listed.
Battery pack Charger
252-8029 (1.5Ah)
252-8031 (2.0Ah)
252-8030 (2.5Ah)
252-8003 (2.5Ah)
252-8034 (4.0Ah)
252-8013 (4.0Ah)
252-8035 (5.0Ah)
252-8005 (5.0Ah)
252-8007 (7.5Ah)
252-8014 (8.0Ah)
252-8025
252-8037
252-8026
252-8043
2. For best results, your battery and
machine should be stored, charged and
used in a location where the temperature
is more than 41°F (5°C) but less than 104°F
(40°C). Do not store outside or in vehicles.
NOTE: The battery pack and charger
manuals are provided separately. They
include specic safety rules and operating
instructions. Please refer to the battery
pack and charger manuals for safety rules
and detailed operating instructions.
DANGER:
People with electronic
devices, such as pacemakers, should
consult their physician(s) before using this
product. Operation of electrical equipment
in close proximity to a heart pacemaker
could cause interference or failure of the
pacemaker.
WARNING:
Drilling, sawing,
sanding or machining wood products can
expose you to wood dust, a substance
known to the State of California to cause
cancer. Avoid inhaling wood dust or use a
dust mask or other safeguards for personal
protection. For more information go to
www.P65Warnings.ca.gov/wood.
WARNING:
Some dust created by
power sanding, sawing, grinding, drilling,
and other construction activities contains
chemicals known to the state of California
to cause cancer, birth defects, or other
reproductive harm. Some examples of
these chemicals are:
Lead from lead-based paints.
Crystalline silica from bricks, cement,
and other masonry products.
Arsenic and chromium from chemically-
treated lumber.
Page 11
SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS
Your risk from these exposures varies,
depending upon how often you do this type
of work. To reduce your exposure to these
chemicals:
Work in a well-ventilated area.
Work with approved safety equipment,
such as dust masks that are specially
designed to lter out microscopic particles.
Avoid prolonged contact with dust from
power sanding, sawing, grinding, drilling,
and other construction activities. Wear
protective clothing and wash exposed
areas with soap and water. Allowing dust
to get into your mouth or eyes or to lie on
the skin may promote absorption of harmful
chemicals.
SAVE THESE INSTRUCTIONS!
Page 12
OVERVIEW
12"
12"
Lock-off Button
Trigger Switch
Rear Handle
Hang Hook
Oil-inspection
Window
Front Hand
Guard / Chain
Brake
Side-cover Knob
Chain Sheath
Chain-tensioning Knob
Side Cover
Oil Tank Cap
Guide Bar
Front Handle
Saw Chain
Metal Bucking Spikes
Page 13
SPECIFICATIONS
Rated Voltage 20 V d.c.
Guide Bar Length 12" (30 cm)
Chain Pitch 3/8" (9.5 mm) LP
Drive Links 45
Round File Size 5/32” (4.0 mm)
Chain Gauge 0.05" (1.28 mm)
Chain Speed 25.9 ft/s (7.9 m/s)
Oil Tank Capacity 5 . oz (150 mL)
TriLink
®
(included)
Guide Bar M1501245-1041
Saw Chain CL15045PB
Oregon Replacement Chain (Sold
separately)
S45
Page 14
OPERATION
WARNING:
If any part is broken or
missing, DO NOT attach the battery pack
or operate the machine until the broken or
missing part is replaced. Failure to do so
could result in possible serious injury.
WARNING:
Do not attempt
to modify this machine or create
accessories not recommended for use
with this machine. Any such alteration or
modification is misuse and could result in
a hazardous condition leading to possible
serious injury.
WARNING:
Your machine should
never be connected to the battery pack
when you are assembling parts, making
adjustments, cleaning, or when it is not
in use. Disconnecting the machine will
prevent accidental starting, which could
cause serious personal injury.
ASSEMBLY
PACKING LIST
- Chainsaw
- Instruction manual.
UNPACKING
1. Carefully remove the machine and any
accessories from the carton. Make sure
that all items listed in the packing list are
included.
2. Inspect the machine carefully to make
sure that no breakage or damage
occurred during shipping.
3. Do not discard the packing material
until you have carefully inspected and
satisfactorily operated the machine.
TO ATTACH THE BATTERY PACK
(FIG. 1)
FIG. 1
Battery-release
Button
1. Make sure that the chainsaw is switched
off.
2. Align the raised rib on the battery pack
with the grooves on the chainsaw, and
then slide the battery pack onto the
chainsaw.
TO REMOVE THE BATTERY PACK
(FIG. 1)
1. Make sure that the chainsaw is
switched off.
2. Depress the battery-release button
located on the front of the battery pack
to release the battery pack.
3. Pull the battery pack out and remove it
from the chainsaw.
Page 15
TO FILL THE OIL TANK (FIG. 2)
FIG. 2
Oil Tank Cap
NOTICE: The chainsaw is not lled with oil
at the time of purchase. It is essential to ll
the tank with oil before use. Operating the
chainsaw without chain oil or when the oil
level is below the minimum mark will result
in damage to the chainsaw. Chain life and
cutting capacity depend on optimum lubri-
cation. The chain is automatically lubricated
with chain oil during operation.
1. Remove the battery pack from the
chainsaw.
2. Clean the oil tank cap and the area
around it to ensure that no dirt falls into
the oil tank.
3. Position the chainsaw on its side on a
rm, at surface, so that the tank cap is
facing upwards. Rotate the oil tank cap
counterclockwise to remove it (FIG. 2).
4. Carefully pour the bar and chain oil
into the tank. Be careful not to let the
oil spill from the opening. Do not overll
and leave approximately 1/4” space
between the oil level and the inside
edge of the tank to allow for expansion.
Wipe off any excess oil.
5. Replace and fasten the cap.
NOTICE:
Never use oil or other lubricants not
specically designed for use on the bar and
chain. This can lead to a clogged oil system,
which may cause premature wear of the bar
and chain.
Check the oil level frequently and ll
when the oil level falls below the minimum
line. Never operate the chain saw if the oil is
not visible.
Do not use dirty, used, or otherwise
contaminated oil. Damage may occur to the
bar or chain.
It is normal for oil to seep from the saw
when it is not in use. To prevent seepage,
empty the oil tank after each use, and then
run the saw for one minute. When storing
the machine for a long period of time, be
sure the chain is lightly lubricated; this will
prevent rust on the chain and bar sprocket.
We recommend using environmentally-
friendly biodegradable chain oil specically
intended to be used with chain saws.
BEFORE STARTING
THE CHAINSAW
1. Remove the battery pack.
2. Make sure that the chain is properly
mounted and correctly tensioned.
3. Check the side-cover knob before use.
If it is loose, securely tighten the side-
cover knob.
4. Check the oil level and ll the tank as
needed. Make sure the chain is well
lubricated.
5. Check the sharpness of the cutting
teeth of the saw chain.
OPERATION
Page 16
OPERATION
6. Make sure that the front hand guard /
chain brake moves easily to the brake
position, then pull the front hand guard
/ chain brake back towards the front
handle to the operating position.
7. Stand upright and hold the chainsaw in
a relaxed position.
8. Hold the chainsaw with both hands:
with the right hand on the rear handle
and the left hand on the front handle.
9. Make sure that you have a secure
and balanced footing. Watch out for
obstacles such as tree stumps, roots,
and ditches, which could cause you to
trip or stumble.
10. Make sure the saw chain is not touching
the ground or any other objects.
11. Make sure that the object being cut does
not exceed the usable cutting length of
the chainsaw. The tip of guide bar shall
always be kept at least 2” outside the
outline of the wood log.
TO START
THE CHAINSAW (FIG. 3)
FIG. 3
Trigger
Switch
Lock-off Button
1. Install the battery pack.
2. Make sure that no objects or obstructions
that could come in contact with the bar
and chain are in the immediate vicinity.
3. Pull the front hand guard / chain
brake towards the front handle to the
operating position.
4. Grasp the front and rear handles rmly,
using both hands.
5. Press and hold the lock-off button, then
squeeze the trigger switch to start the
saw. Release the lock-off button and
continue to squeeze the trigger for
continued operation.
TO STOP THE CHAINSAW (FIG. 3)
1. Move the chainsaw away from cutting
area, and then release the trigger switch
to stop the chainsaw.
2. Push the front hand guard / chain brake
forward to the brake position to engage
the chain brake.
WARNING:
Do not attempt to start the chainsaw
when the saw chain is in a cut or in contact
with any surface.
Always remove the battery pack from
the chainsaw during work breaks and after
nishing work.
PROPER CUTTING STANCE
(FIG. 4 & FIG. 5)
FIG. 4
Chain
Line
Straight
Arm
Position
Page 17
OPERATION
FIG. 5
Metal Bucking
Spikes
Both feet should be on solid ground,
with weight evenly spread between them.
The left arm should be straight, with the
elbow locked. This helps to withstand the
forces generated by kickback.
Your body should always be to the left of
the chain line.
Use metal bucking spikes to secure the
position of chainsaw against the lumber
before starting to cut.
Use the bucking spikes as a leverage
point (
in FIG. 5 ) while cutting.
Reset the bucking spikes at a lower
point when sawing thicker logs by pulling
the chainsaw slightly backwards until
the bucking spikes are disengaged, and
reposition at a lower level to continue
sawing; do not remove the chainsaw
completely from the log.
Do not force the chainsaw while cutting;
let the speed of the chain do the work, using
bucking spikes to apply minimum leverage
pressure.
CUTTING
It is recommended that the rst time user
should have practical instruction in the use
of the chainsaw and the protective equip-
ment from an experienced operator and that
the initial practice should be cutting logs on
a saw horse or cradle.
1. Always hold the chainsaw rmly with
both hands: front handle with the left
hand and rear handle with the right
hand. Fully grip both handles at all
times during operation. Never operate
the chainsaw using only one hand.
2. Take the proper stance in front of the
wood with the saw turned off.
3. Press the lock-off button and squeeze
the trigger switch to start the chainsaw.
Let the chain reach the full speed before
beginning the cut.
4. Begin cutting by lightly pressing the
guide bar and chain against the wood.
Use only light pressure, letting the saw
do the work.
5. Maintain a steady speed throughout the
cut, releasing pressure just before the
end of the cut.
6. Be careful when reaching the end of
the cut. The weight of the chainsaw
may change unexpectedly as it cuts
free from the wood. This can cause
accidents to the legs and feet. Always
remove the saw from a wood while
the saw is running. Release the trigger
switch as soon as the cut is completed,
allowing the chain to stop.
WARNING:
When the saw chain
is stopped due to pinching during cutting,
release the trigger switch, remove the saw
chain and guide bar from the wood, and
then restart the chainsaw.
Page 18
FELLING A TREE
HAZARDOUS CONDITIONS
Do not fell trees during periods of high
wind or heavy precipitation. Wait until the
hazardous weather has ended.
Do not fell trees that lean at extreme
angles or large trees with rotten limbs, loose
bark, or hollow trunks. Instead, have these
trees pushed or dragged down with heavy
equipment and then cut them up.
Do not fell trees near electrical wires or
buildings.
Check the tree for damaged or dead
branches that could fall and hit you during
felling.
Periodically glance at the top of the tree
during the back cut to assure the tree is
going to fall in the desired direction.
If the tree starts to fall in the wrong
direction, or if the chainsaw gets caught or
hung up during the fall, leave the chainsaw
and save yourself!
PREPARATION
FOR TREE FELLING (FIG. 6)
FIG. 6
Felling Direction
Dangerous Zone
Safety
Retreat
Path
Safety
Retreat
Path
45°
Dangerous Zone
OPERATION
When bucking and felling operations are
being performed by two or more persons 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. Trees should not be felled in
a manner that would endanger any person,
strike any utility line or cause any property
damage. If a tree does make contact with a
utility line, stay clear of the tree and the line
and notify the utility company immediately.
The chain saw operator should stand on
the uphill side of the terrain, as the tree is
likely to roll or slide downhill after it is felled.
Before any cuts are started, pick your
escape route (or routes, in case the intended
route is blocked). Clear the immediate area
around the tree and make sure that there
are no obstructions in your planned paths
of retreat. Clear a path of safe retreat
approximately 135° from the planned line
of fall. The retreat path should extend back
and diagonally to the rear of the expected
line of fall. See FIG. 6.
Before felling is started, consider the
natural lean of the tree, the location of larger
branches and the wind direction to judge
which way the tree will fall.
Remove dirt, stones, loose bark, nails,
staples, and wire from the tree where felling
cuts are to be made.
Page 19
NOTCHING UNDERCUT (FIG. 7)
Notching Undercut
Hinge
Notch
2”
2”
Direction of Fall
FIG. 7
Felling
Back Cut
Make the notch 1/3 the diameter of the tree,
perpendicular to the direction of fall. Make
the lower horizontal notching cut rst. This
will help to avoid pinching of either the saw
chain or the guide bar when the second
notch is being made.
FELLING BACK CUT (FIG. 7)
1. Make the felling back cut at least
2” higher than the horizontal notching
cut. Keep the felling back cut parallel
to the horizontal notching cut. Make
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.
2. 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 back
and bind the saw chain, stop cutting
before the felling back cut is complete
and use wedges of wood, plastic, or
aluminum to open the cut and drop the
tree along the desired line of fall.
OPERATION
3. When the tree begins to fall, remove
the chainsaw from the cut, stop the
motor, put the chainsaw down, then use
the retreat path planned. Be alert for
overhead limbs falling and watch your
footing.
LIMBING (FIG. 8)
FIG. 8
Tree Limbing
Limb Cut
Limbing is removing branches from a fallen
tree. When limbing, leave larger limbs to
support the log off the ground. Remove the
small limbs in one cut. Branches under ten-
sion should be cut from the bottom up to
avoid binding the chainsaw.
BUCKING A LOG
Bucking is cutting a log into lengths. It is
important to make sure your footing is rm
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 the simple directions
for easy cutting.
Page 20
OVERBUCKING (FIG. 9A)
FIG. 9A
Overbucking
Begin on the top side of the log with the bot-
tom of the saw against the log; exert light
pressure downward. Note that the saw will
tend to pull away from you.
UNDERBUCKING (FIG. 9B)
FIG. 9B
Underbucking
Begin on the underside of the log with the
top of the saw against the log; exert light
pressure upward. During underbucking,
the saw will tend to push back at you. Be
prepared for this reaction and hold the saw
rmly to maintain control.
OPERATION
When the log is supported along its
entire length, it should be cut from the top
(overbucking) (FIG. 10).
FIG. 10
Log Supported along the
Entire Length
Cut from Top (Overbuck)
Aviod Cutting Earth
When the log is supported on only one
end, cut 1/3 the diameter from the underside
(underbucking). Then make the nishing
cut by overbucking to meet the rst cut
(FIG. 11).
FIG. 11
Log Supported One End
2nd Cut Overbuck
(2/3 Diameter) to
Meet 1st Cut (To
Aviod Pinching)
1st Cut Underbuck (1/3
Diameter) to Avoid Splintering
Page 21
OPERATION
When the log is supported on both
ends, cut 1/3 of that diameter from the top
(overbucking). Then make the nished cut
by underbucking the lower 2/3 to meet the
rst cut (FIG. 12).
FIG. 12
Log Supported Both Ends
2nd Cut Underbuck (2/3 Diameter) to
Meet 1st Cut (To Aviod Pinching)
1st Cut Overbuck
(1/3 diameter) to
Avoid Splintering
When bucking on a slope, always stand
on the uphill side of the log (FIG. 13).
FIG. 13
Stand on uphill side when
cutting because log may roll
To maintain complete control when
cutting through, release the cutting pressure
near the end of the cut without relaxing
the grip on the chainsaw handles. Don’t
allow the chain to contact the ground. After
completing the cut, wait for the saw chain to
stop before you move the chainsaw. Always
stop the motor before moving from tree to
tree.
WARNING:
Keep a clear cutting
area. Make sure that no objects can contact
the guide bar nose and chain during cutting;
this can cause kickback.
Page 22
MAINTENANCE
WARNING:
To avoid serious
personal injury, remove the battery pack
from the chain saw before inspecting,
cleaning, or performing maintenance. A
battery operated machine with the battery
pack inserted is always on and can start
accidently.
WARNING:
When servicing, use
only identical replacement parts. Use of
any other parts could create a hazard or
cause product damage. Periodically inspect
the entire product for damaged, missing,
or loose parts such as screws, nuts, bolts,
caps, etc. Tighten securely all fasteners and
caps and do not operate this product until
all missing or damaged parts are replaced.
Please contact customer service or an
authorized service center for assistance.
WARNING:
Always wear safety
goggles or safety glasses with side shields
during machine operation or when blowing
dust. If the operation is dusty, also wear a
dust mask.
WARNING:
When cleaning the
chain saw, DO NOT immerse in water or
other liquids.
WARNING:
Do not at any time let
brake fluids, gasoline, petroleum-based
products, penetrating oils, etc., come in
contact with plastic parts. Chemicals can
damage, weaken, or destroy plastic, which
may result in serious personal injury.
CLEANING
After each use, clean debris from the
chain and guide bar with a soft brush. Wipe
the chain saw surface with a clean cloth
moistened with a mild soap solution.
Remove the side cover, and then use a
soft brush to remove debris from the guide
bar, saw chain, sprocket and side cover.
Always clean out wood chips, saw dust,
and dirt from the guide bar groove when
replacing the saw chain.
REPLACING THE BAR AND
CHAIN
WARNING:
Always wear gloves
when handling the bar and chain; these
components are sharp and may contain
burrs.
WARNING:
Never touch or adjust
the chain while the motor is running. The saw
chain is very sharp; always wear protective
gloves when performing maintenance to the
chain.
NOTICE: When replacing the guide bar
and chain, always use the specied bar
and chain combination listed in the section
“SPECIFICATIONS” section.
DISASSEMBLING THE WORN
BAR AND CHAIN (FIG.14 & FIG.15)
FIG. 14
Side-cover Knob
Page 23
MAINTENANCE
FIG. 15
1. Remove the battery and allow the saw
to cool. Make sure the oil-tank cap is
tight to prevent oil leakage.
2. Position the chain saw on its side on a
rm, at surface, so that the side cover
is facing upwards.
3. Wear gloves. Remove the side cover by
turning the side-cover knob counter-
clockwise (FIG. 14). Clean the side
cover with a dry cloth.
4. Remove the worn bar and chain from
the mounting surface (FIG. 15).
NOTE: This is a good time to inspect
the drive sprocket for excessive wear or
damage.
ASSEMBLING THE NEW BAR
AND CHAIN (FIG. 16-FIG. 19)
FIG. 16
Chain Drive Links
Guide Bar
Goove
FIG. 17
FIG. 18
Alignment
Flange
Fastening
Bolt
Guide-
bar Slot
Sprocket
Page 24
MAINTENANCE
FIG. 19
1. Lay the saw chain in a loop on a at
surface and straighten any kinks
(FIG. 16).
2. Place the chain drive links into the guide
bar groove. Position the chain so there
is a loop at the back of the guide bar
(FIG. 17).
3. Hold the chain in position on the guide
bar and place the loop around the
sprocket of the power head.
4. Place the guide bar on the mounting
surface by sliding the guide-bar slot
over the alignment anges. Make sure
that the guide bar is correctly positioned
over the fastening bolt and the saw
chain ‘Cutter’ complies with symbol
for rotation and cutting direction on the
plastic housing (FIG. 18).
NOTICE:
To extend the guide-bar life, invert the
bar occasionally.
5. Attach the side cover to the housing so
that the holes/pins and the fastening
bolt /thread hole are aligned with each
other properly (FIG. 19). Lightly tighten
the side-cover knob by turning it
clockwise.
NOTE: Tension the chain by following the
next chapter “ADJUSTING THE CHAIN
TENSION” instructions.
CAUTION:
The saw chain must be properly
tensioned before using.
ADJUSTING
THE CHAIN TENSION (FIG. 20 &
FIG. 21)
FIG. 20
Chain-tensioning Knob
Approximately 3/64”
FIG. 21
Page 25
MAINTENANCE
1. Stop the motor and remove the battery
pack before adjusting the chain tension.
2. Turn the chain-tensioning knob
clockwise or counterclockwise to
adjust chain tension according to the
marks on the side cover around the
chain-tensioning knob (FIG. 20) until the
chain seats snugly against the guide
bar with the drive links in the guide bar
groove.
A cold chain is correctly tensioned
when there is no slack on the underside
of the guide bar and the chain is snug,
but it can be turned by hand without
binding. The chain must be re-tensioned
whenever the ats on the drive links do
not sit in the bar groove.
During normal saw operation, the
temperature of the chain will increase. The
drive links of a correctly tensioned warm
chain will hang approximately 3/64 in.
out of the bar groove (FIG. 21).
NOTICE:
New chains tend to stretch.
Check chain tension frequently and adjust
tension as required.
NOTICE: A chain tensioned while it is warm
may be too tight upon cooling. Check the
cold tension before next use .
CHAIN MAINTENANCE
HOW TO SHARPEN THE
CUTTERS (FIG. 22 - FIG. 25)
Side Plate
Top Plate
Depth
Guage
FIG. 22
Sharpening
Angle:30°
Filing
Direction
Cutter Tooth
5/32”
Round File
FIG. 23
FIG. 24
Page 26
MAINTENANCE
Left-hand
Cutters
Right-hand
Cutters
FIG. 25
Be sure to le all cutters (FIG. 22) to the
specied angles and to the same length, as
fast cutting can be obtained only when all
cutters are uniform.
1. Remove the battery pack. Wear gloves
for protection.
2. Properly tension the chain prior to
sharpening. Refer to the section:
“ADJUSTING THE CHAIN TENSION”
earlier in this manual.
3. Use a 5/32” diameter round le and
holder (sold separately). Perform all of
your ling at the middle position of the
guide bar.
4. Keep the le level with the top plate of
the tooth. Do not let the le dip or rock.
5. Keep a correct sharpening angle of 30°
between the le and the saw chain;
see FIG. 23 and FIG. 24. Always use
a le holder (sold separately) when
sharpening saw chains by hand.
File holders have markings for the
sharpening angle.
6. Using light but rm pressure, perform a
stroke towards the front corner of the
tooth. Lift the le away from the steel on
each return stroke.
7. Make a few rm strokes on every tooth.
File all left-hand cutters in one direction.
Then move to the other side and le
the right-hand cutters in the opposite
direction. Occasionally remove lings
from the le with a wire brush (FIG. 25).
WARNING:
Improper chain sharpening increases the
potential of kickback.
Failure to replace or repair a damaged
chain can cause serious injury.
TOP-PLATE SHARPENING
ANGLES(FIG. 26)
30°
Top Plate Sharpenging Angles
Less Than
30°
Correct Incorrect Incorrect
More Than
30°
FIG. 26
CORRECT 30° – This optimal angle can
be obtained only when the specied les
and proper setting are used. File holders
are marked with guide marks to align the
le properly to produce the correct top plate
angle.
LESS THAN 30° – The tooth is too dull for
cutting.
MORE THAN 30° – The edge of the
cutting tooth is feathered and dulls quickly.
Page 27
MAINTENANCE
SIDE-PLATE ANGLE (FIG. 27)
60°
Correct
Hook
Backward
Slope
Side Plate Angle
Incorrect Incorrect
FIG. 27
CORRECT 60° – The optimal angle can
be produced automatically if the correct
diameter le is used in the le holder.
HOOK – “Grabs” and dulls quickly.
Increases potential of kickback. Results
from using a le with a diameter that is too
small, or a le held too low.
BACKWARD SLOPE – Needs too much
feed pressure, causes excessive wear to bar
and chain. Results from using a le with a
diameter too large, or a le held too high.
DEPTH-GAUGE CLEARANCE
(FIG. 28 – FIG. 29)
FIG. 28
Depth Gauge Clearance
0.025”
Flat
File
FIG. 29
Depth Gauge Jointer
1. The depth gauge should be maintained
at a clearance of 0.025”, as shown in
FIG. 28. Use a depth-gauge power (sold
separately) to check the depth-gauge
clearances.
2. Check the depth-gauge clearance every
time the chain is led. Use a at le
and a depth-gauge jointer (both sold
separately) to lower all gauges uniformly
(FIG. 29). Depth-gauge jointers are
available in 0.020–0.035”. Use a 0.025”
depth-gauge jointer.
Depth gauges must be adjusted with the
at le in the same direction the adjoining
cutter was led with the round le. Use care
not to contact the cutter face with the at
le when adjusting depth-gauges.
Page 28
MAINTENANCE
GUIDE-BAR
MAINTENANCE (FIG. 30)
FIG. 30
Lubricating Hole
Sprocket in
Guide-bar Tip
When the guide bar shows signs of wear,
reverse it on the saw to distribute the wear
for maximum bar life. The bar should be
cleaned every day of use and checked for
wear and damage. Feathering or burring
of the bar rails is a normal process of bar
wear. Such faults should be smoothed with
a le as soon as they occur. A bar with any
of the following faults should be replaced.
Wear inside the bar rails which permits
the chain to lay over sideways.
Bent guide bar.
Cracked or broken rails.
Spread rails.
The guide bar has a sprocket at its tip. The
sprocket must be lubricated weekly with a
grease syringe to extend the guide-bar life.
Use a grease syringe to lubricate weekly
with chain oil by means of the lubricating
hole (FIG. 30). Turn the guide bar and check
that the lubrication holes and chain groove
are free from impurities.
TRANSPORTING AND STORING
1. Do not store or transport the machine
when it is running. Always remove
the battery pack before storing or
transporting.
2. Always place the chain sheath on the
guide bar and chain before storing or
transporting the machine. Use caution
to avoid the sharp teeth of the chain.
3. Clean the machine thoroughly before
storing. Store the machine indoors,
in a dry place that is locked and/or
inaccessible to children.
4. Keep away from corrosive agents such
as garden chemicals and de-icing salts.
WARNING:
To avoid serious personal injury,
remove the battery pack from the chainsaw
before inspecting, cleaning, or performing
maintenance.
Never touch or adjust the chain while
the motor is running. The saw chain is very
sharp; always wear protective gloves when
performing maintenance to the chain.
Do not let brake uids, gasoline,
petroleum-based products, penetrating oil,
etc., come into contact with plastic parts.
These substances contain chemicals that
can damage, weaken, or destroy plastic.
When servicing, use only identical
replacement parts. The use of any other
parts may create a hazard or cause damage
to the product.
Use only accessories that are
recommended for this chainsaw by the
manufacturer. Accessories that may be
suitable for one machine may become
hazardous when used with another machine.
To ensure safety and reliability, all repairs
should be performed by a qualied service
technician.
Page 29
TROUBLESHOOTING
PROBLEM POSSIBLE CAUSE SOLUTION
Motor does not run.
The battery pack is not attached
to the chainsaw.
Attach the battery pack to
the chainsaw.
The battery pack charge is
depleted.
Charge the battery pack.
The battery pack or chainsaw is
too hot.
Allow the battery pack or
chainsaw to cool.
The lock-off button is not
depressed before pressing the
trigger switch.
Press down the lock-off
button and hold it, and then
depress the trigger switch to
turn on the chainsaw.
Chain brake is engaged.
Pull the front hand guard /
chain brake backward toward
the front handle.
Saw chain is bound in the wood.
Release the trigger switch,
remove the saw chain and
guide bar from the wood, and
then restart the chainsaw.
Debris in the bar groove.
With the saw turned
OFF, press the saw chain
against the wood, move the
chainsaw back and forth to
discharge the debris.
Debris in the side cover.
Remove battery pack,
remove side cover and then
clean out debris.
Motor runs, but chain
does not rotate.
Chain does not engage drive
sprocket.
Reinstall the chain, making
sure that the drive links on
the chain are fully seated on
the sprocket.
Chain brake does not
engage.
Debris preventing full movement
of the front hand guard / chain
brake.
Remove battery and clean
debris from external chain
brake mechanism.
Page 30
TROUBLESHOOTING
PROBLEM POSSIBLE CAUSE SOLUTION
Chainsaw does not cut
properly.
Insufcient chain tension.
Readjust the chain tension,
following the section:
“ADJUSTING THE CHAIN
TENSION”.
Dull chain.
Sharpen the chain cutters,
following the section:
“HOW TO SHARPEN THE
CUTTERS”.
Chain installed backwards. Reinstall the saw chain.
Worn chain. Replace the chain.
Dry or excessively stretched
chain.
Check the oil level. Rell the
oil tank if necessary.
Chain not in bar groove. Reinstall the saw chain.
Bar and chain running
hot and smoking.
Check chain tension for over-
tightened condition.
Re-tension the saw
chain; see the section:
“ADJUSTING THE CHAIN
TENSION”.
Chain oil tank is empty.
Fill the tank with bar and
chain lubricant.
Debris in guide bar groove.
Clear the debris in the
groove.
Page 31
PARTS LIST
No. Part Name No. Part Name
1 Sheath 28 Wood Teeth
2 Chain 29 Hexagon Socket Screw
3 Guide Plate 30 Rubber Gasket
4 Front Handle 31 Sprocket
5 Screw 32 Gasket
6 Housing Assembly 33 "E" Ring
7 Lock off Button 34 Kettle Cover
8 Switch Trigger 35 O Ring
9 Spring 36 Tether
10 Ball Bearing 37 Oil Kettle
11 Output Shaft 38 Valve
12 Gear 39 Spring
13 Worm 40 Inlet Tube
14 Key 41 Tapping Screw
15 Ball Bearing 42 Nozzle
16 Output Shaft 43 Soft Tube
17 Gear 44 Pump Assembly
18 Gear Case Assembly 45 Tapping Screw
19 Screw 46 Cover
20 Pinion 47 Screw and Nut Set
21 DC Motor 48 Bevel Gear
22 Fan Baffle 49 Square Washer
23 Electric Assembly 50 Hand Wheel
24 Pin 51 Chain Cover Plate
25 Leaf Spring 52 C Ring
26 Hexagon Head Bolt 53 Knob
27 Brake Handle
Page 32
SCHEMATIC DRAWING
Page 33
NOTESNOTES
20V BRUSHLESS 12’’ CHAINSAW
06/2024
© 2024 Menard, Inc., Eau Claire, WI 54703
