Homelite UT10942D User Manual

OPERATOR'S MANUAL

UT10927D / 16 in. (406 mm) 38cc Chain Saw
UT10946D / 18 in. (457 mm) 45cc Chain Saw
UT10942D / 20 in. (508 mm) 45cc Chain Saw

Your new chain saw has been engineered and manufactured to Homelite’s high standard for dependability, ease of operation,
and operator safety. Properly cared for, it will give you years of rugged, trouble-free performance.

WARNING: To reduce the risk of injury, the user must read and understand the operator’s manual before using

this product.

Thank you for buying a Homelite chain saw.

SAVE THIS MANUAL FOR FUTURE REFERENCE

TABLE OF CONTENTS

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■ Introduction ..................................................................................................................................................................... 2

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■■

■ General Safety Rules .................................................................................................................................................. 3-4

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■ Specific Safety Rules................................................................................................................................................... 4-5

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■ Symbols ....................................................................................................................................................................... 6-7

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■ Specifications ................................................................................................................................................................. 7

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■ Features ......................................................................................................................................................................... 8

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■ Operation ................................................................................................................................................................... 9-21

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■ Maintenance ............................................................................................................................................................ 22-32

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■ Bar and Chain Combinations ........................................................................................................................................ 33

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■ Troubleshooting ....................................................................................................................................................... 33-34

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■ Warranty ....................................................................................................................................................................... 35

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■ Parts Ordering/Service ................................................................................................................................................. 36

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INTRODUCTION

IMPORTANT

Servicing requires extreme care and knowledge and
should be performed only by a qualified service
technician. When servicing use only identical Homelite
replacement parts.

For safe operation, read and understand all instructions
before using the chain saw. Follow all safety
instructions. Failure to follow all safety instructions
listed below, may result in serious personal injury.

WARNING:

Carefully read through this entire operator's manual
before using your new saw. Pay close attention to
the Safety Rules and all Safety Alert Symbols
including Danger, Warning, and Caution. These
safety rules are for your safety and to prevent
possible serious injury. If you use your saw properly
and only for what it is intended, you will enjoy years
of safe, reliable service.

Look for this symbol to point out important safety precautions.
It means attention!!! Your safety is involved.

WARNING:

The operation of any power tool can result in foreign objects being thrown into your eyes, which
can result in severe eye damage. Before beginning tool operation, always wear safety goggles or
safety glasses with side shields and a full face shield when needed. We recommend Wide Vision
Safety Mask for use over eyeglasses or standard safety glasses with side shields. Always wear eye
protection which is marked to comply with ANSI Z87.1.

Page 2

GENERAL SAFETY RULES

WARNING:

The warnings, labels, and instructions found in this
section of the operator's manual are for your safety.
Failure to follow all instructions may result in serious
personal injury.

Safe operation of this tool requires that you read and
understand this operator's manual and all labels affixed to
the tool. Safety is a combination of using common sense,
staying alert, and knowing how your saw works.

READ ALL INSTRUCTIONS

■■

■ KNOW YOUR TOOL. Read the operator's manual

■■

carefully. Learn the saw's applications and limitations
as well as the specific potential hazards related to this
tool.

■■

■ 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.

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

2. Keep a good firm grip on the saw with both hands
when the engine is running. Place your right hand
on the rear handle and your left hand on the front
handle with your thumbs and fingers encircling the
chain saw handles. A firm grip together with a stiff
left arm will help you maintain control of the saw if
kickback occurs.

3. 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.

4. Cut at high engine speeds. Always cut with the
engine running at full speed. Fully squeeze the
throttle trigger and maintain a steady cutting speed.

5. Do not overreach or cut above chest height.

6. Follow the manufacturer's sharpening and

maintenance instructions for the saw chain.

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

■■

■ DO NOT OPERATE A CHAIN SAW WITH ONE

■■

HAND. Serious injury to the operator, helpers,
bystanders, or any combination of these persons may
result from one-handed operation. A chain saw is
intended for two-handed use.

■■

■ DO NOT OPERATE A CHAIN SAW WHEN YOU ARE

■■

FATIGUED. Never operate a chain saw when you are
tired or under the influence of medication, drugs, or
alcohol.

■■

■ USE SAFETY FOOTWEAR. Wear snug-fitting clothing,

■■

protective gloves, and eye, hearing, and head
protection devices.

■■

■ DO NOT STAND ON ANY UNSTABLE SURFACE

■■

while using your chain saw, that includes ladders,
scaffolds, trees, etc.

■■

■ USE CAUTION WHEN HANDLING FUEL. Move the

■■

chain saw at least 30 feet (9 m) from the fueling point
before starting the engine.

■■

■ DO NOT ALLOW OTHER PERSONS to be near the

■■

chain saw when starting or cutting with the chain saw.
Keep bystanders and animals out of the work area.

■■

■ DO NOT START CUTTING until you have a clear work

■■

area, secure footing, 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.

■■

■ ALWAYS CARRY THE CHAIN SAW WITH THE

■■

ENGINE STOPPED AND THE BRAKE ENGAGED,

the guide bar and saw chain to the rear, and the
muffler away from your body. When transporting the
chain saw, use the appropriate guide bar scabbard.

■■

■ DO NOT OPERATE A CHAIN SAW THAT IS

■■

DAMAGED, improperly adjusted, or not completely and
securely assembled. Be sure that the saw chain stops
moving when the throttle control trigger is released.

■■

■ SHUT OFF THE ENGINE before setting the chain saw

■■

down. DO NOT leave the engine running unattended.
As an additional safety precaution, apply the chain
brake prior to setting down the saw.

■■

■ 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 springback so that you will not be struck when
the tension in the wood fibers is released.

■■

■ KEEP THE HANDLES dry, clean, and free of oil or fuel

■■

mixture.

■■

■ OPERATE THE CHAIN SAW ONLY in well-ventilated

■■

areas.

■■

■ DO NOT OPERATE A CHAIN SAW IN A TREE unless

■■

you have been specifically trained to do so.

Page 3

GENERAL SAFETY RULES

■■

■ ALL CHAIN SAW SERVICE, other than the items

■■

listed in the instruction manual and all maintenance,
should be performed by competent chain saw service
personnel. (For example, if improper tools are used to
remove the flywheel or if an improper tool is used to
hold the flywheel in order to remove the clutch,
structural damage to the flywheel could occur and
subsequently could cause the flywheel to burst.)

■■

■ KEEP SAFE-T-TIP ANTI-KICKBACK NOSE GUARD

■■

properly mounted on the guide bar to prevent rotational
kickback.

SPECIFIC SAFETY RULES

WARNING:

The warnings, labels, and instructions found in this
section of the operator's manual are for your safety.
Failure to follow all instructions may result in serious
personal injury.

GENERAL PRECAUTIONS

■■

■ DO NOT CUT VINES and/or small underbrush (less

■■

than 3 in./76 mm in diameter).

■■

■ MUFFLER SURFACES ARE VERY HOT during and

■■

after operation of the chain saw; keep all body parts
away from the muffler. Serious burns may occur if
contact is made with the muffler.

■■

■ Always hold the chain saw with both hands when the

■■

engine is running. Use a firm grip with thumbs and
fingers encircling the chain saw handles.

■■

■ Never let anyone use your chain saw who has not

■■

received adequate instructions in its proper use. This
applies to rentals as well as privately owned saws.

■■

■ Before you start the engine, make sure the saw chain is

■■

not contacting any object.

■■

■ Operate the chain saw only in well ventilated areas.

■■

SAFETY APPAREL

■■

■ Wear snug fitting clothing. Always wear heavy, long

■■

pants, boots, and gloves. Do not wear jewelry, short
pants, sandals, or go barefoot. Do not wear loose fitting
clothing, which could be drawn into the engine or catch
the chain or underbrush. Wear overalls, jeans, or chaps
made of cut resistant material or ones that contain cut
resistant inserts. Secure hair so that it is above shoul­der level.

■■

■ Wear non-slip safety footwear and heavy-duty gloves to

■■

improve your grip and to protect your hands.

■■

■ FOLLOW THE SHARPENING and maintenance

■■

instructions for the saw chain.

■■

■ USE ONLY THE REPLACEMENT GUIDE BARS and

■■

low kickback chains specified for your saw.

■■

■ DO NOT adapt your powerhead to a bow guide or use it

■■

to power any attachments or devices not listed for your
saw.

■■

■ SAVE THESE INSTRUCTIONS. Refer to them fre-

■■

quently and use to instruct other users. If you loan
someone this tool, loan them these instructions also.

■■

■ Wear eye protection which is marked to comply with

■■

ANSI Z87.1, as well as, hearing and head protection
when operating this equipment.

REFUELING (DO NOT SMOKE!)

■ To reduce the risk of fire and burn injury, handle fuel
with care. It is highly flammable.

■■

■ Mix and store fuel in a container approved for gasoline.

■■

■■

■ Mix fuel outdoors where there are no sparks or flames.

■■

■■

■ Select bare ground, stop the engine, and allow it to

■■

cool before refueling.

■■

■ Loosen the fuel cap slowly to release pressure and to

■■

keep fuel from escaping around the cap.

■■

■ Tighten the fuel cap securely after refueling.

■■

■■

■ Wipe spilled fuel from the unit. Move 30 feet (9 m)

■■

away from refueling site before starting engine.

■■

■ Never attempt to burn off spilled fuel under any circum-

■■

stances.

CUTTING/WORK AREA

■■

■ Do not operate a chain saw in a tree.

■■

■■

■ Do not cut from a ladder, this is extremely dangerous.

■■

■■

■ Keep bystanders and animals out of the work area. Do

■■

not allow other persons to be nearby during starting or
cutting with the chain saw.

Note: The size of the work area depends on the job
being performed as well as the size tree or workpiece
involved. For example, felling a tree requires a larger
work area than making other cuts (i.e., bucking cuts,
etc.).

Page 4

SPECIFIC SAFETY RULES

PUSH AND PULL

See Figure 1.

The reaction force is always opposite to the direction the
chain is moving. 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.

PULL

PUSH

Fig. 1

MAINTENANCE PRECAUTIONS

Never operate a chain saw that is damaged, improperly
adjusted, or is not completely and securely assembled. Be
sure that the saw chain stops moving when the throttle
control trigger is released. If the saw chain moves at idle
speed, the carburetor may need adjusting. Refer to
“Operation” later in this manual. If the saw chain still
moves at idle speed after adjustment has been made,
contact a Homelite Service Center for adjustment and
discontinue use until the repair is made.

WARNING:

All chain saw service, other than items in the operator's
manual maintenance instructions, should be performed
by competent chain saw service personnel. If improper
tools are used to remove the flywheel or clutch, or if an
improper tool is used to hold the flywheel in order to
remove the clutch, structural damage to the flywheel
could occur which could subsequently cause the
flywheel to burst and serious injury could result.

KICKBACK

Kickback is a dangerous reaction that can lead to serious
injury. Do not rely only on the safety devices provided
with your saw. As a chain saw user, you must take
special safety precautions to help keep your cutting jobs
free from accident or injury.

Note: See the "Operation" section later in this manual for
added information on kickback and how to avoid serious
personal injury.

Note: Your chain saw has been fully factory tested. It is
normal to find some slight oil residue on the saw.

Page 5

SYMBOLS

Important: Some of the following symbols may be used on your tool. Please study them and learn their meaning. Proper

interpretation of these symbols will allow you to operate the tool better and safer.

SYMBOL NAME EXPLANATION

Safety Alert Symbol

Read Your Operator’s Manual

Eye, Hearing, and Head Protection

SAFE-T-TIP® Nose Guard

No Smoking

Prohibited Symbol

Indicates danger, warning or caution. It means
attention!!! Your safety is involved.

Your manual contains special messages to bring
attention to potential safety concerns, machine damage
as well as helpful operating and servicing information.
Please read all the information carefully to avoid injury
and machine damage.

Wear eye, hearing, and head protection when operating
this equipment.

The SAFE-T-TIP
prevent kickback.

No smoking, sparks, or open flame.

Diagonal line across a symbol means this is prohibited
or should be avoided.

®

nose guard on the guide bar helps

Operate with Two Hands

One Handed

Carbon Monoxide

Kickback

Bar Nose Contact

Gloves

Hold and operate the saw properly with both hands.

Do not operate the saw using only one hand.

Engines produce carbon monoxide which is an odorless,
deadly poison. Do not operate in an enclosed area.

Danger – beware of kickback.

Avoid bar nose contact.

Wear non-slip gloves.

Page 6

SYMBOLS

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 safety warnings do not by themselves
eliminate any danger. The instructions or warnings they give are not substitutes for proper accident prevention
measures.

Symbol Meaning

DANGER: Indicates an imminently hazardous situation, which, if not avoided, will result in death or

serious injury.

WARNING: Indicates a potentially hazardous situation, which, if not avoided, could result in death or
serious injury.

CAUTION: Indicates a potentially hazardous situation, which, if not avoided, may result in minor or
moderate injury. It may also be used to alert against unsafe practices that may cause property damage.

Note: Advises you of additional information concerning the operation or maintenance of the equipment.

SAVE THESE INSTRUCTIONS

SPECIFICATIONS

UT10946D

Weight - No bar, chain, fuel or oil ........... 9.7 lbs. (4.4 kg)

Fuel tank volume .................................... 19.4 oz. (575 ml)

Chain oil tank volume ............................. 11.8 oz. (350 ml)

Bar length ................................................. 18 in. (457 mm)

Chain pitch .............................................. .325 in (8.3 mm)

Chain gauge ......................................... .050 in. (1.25 mm)

UT10942D

Weight - No bar, chain, fuel or oil ........... 9.7 lbs. (4.4 kg)

Fuel tank volume .................................... 19.4 oz. (575 ml)

Chain oil tank volume ............................. 11.8 oz. (350 ml)

Bar length ................................................. 20 in. (508 mm)

Chain pitch .............................................. .325 in (8.3 mm)

Chain gauge ......................................... .050 in. (1.25 mm)

Drive sprocket ........................................................ 7-tooth

Engine displacement ............................. 2.75 cu. in. (45cc)

Maximum engine power ......... 2.5HP/1.9KW (9,000 RPM)

Idle engine speed ................................ 2,600 - 3,400 RPM

Fuel tank capacity .................................. 19.4 oz. (575 ml)

Oil tank capacity..................................... 11.8 oz. (350 ml)

Drive sprocket ........................................................ 7-tooth

Engine displacement ............................. 2.75 cu. in. (45cc)

Maximum engine power ......... 2.5HP/1.9KW (9,000 RPM)

Idle engine speed ................................ 2,600 - 3,400 RPM

Fuel tank capacity .................................. 19.4 oz. (575 ml)

Oil tank capacity..................................... 11.8 oz. (350 ml)

UT10927D

Weight - No bar, chain, fuel or oil ........... 9.7 lbs. (4.4 kg)

Fuel tank volume .................................... 19.4 oz. (575 ml)

Chain oil tank volume ............................. 11.8 oz. (350 ml)

Bar length ............................................... 16. in. (406 mm)

Chain pitch .......................................... ..0.325 in (8.3 mm)

Chain gauge ......................................... .050 in. (1.25 mm)

Drive sprocket ........................................................ 7-tooth

Engine displacement ............................. 2.75 cu. in. (45cc)

Maximum engine power ......... 2.5HP/1.9KW (9,000 RPM)

Idle engine speed ................................ 2,600 - 3,400 RPM

Fuel tank capacity .................................. 19.4 oz. (575 ml)

Oil tank capacity..................................... 11.8 oz. (350 ml)

Page 7

FEATURES

TRIGGER
RELEASE

CYLINDER

COVER

PRIMER BULB

FRONT

HANDLE

FRONT HAND

GUARD/CHAIN

BRAKE

CHOKE LEVER

STARTER

GRIP

BAR MOUNTING

NUTS

CHAIN OIL

CAP

SAFE-T-TIP

®

STARTER/FAN

HOUSING

IGNITION

SWITCH

Page 8

FUEL MIX

CAP

STOP

THROTTLE

TRIGGER

REAR

HANDLE

Fig. 2

OPERATION

WARNING:

The warnings and instructions in this section of the
operator's manual are for your safety and to prevent
serious personal injury.

pushed toward the bar, the chain should stop immedi­ately. A chain brake does not prevent kickback. The chain
brake should be cleaned and tested before each use.
Refer to “Operation- Operating the Chain Brake” later in
this manual for additional information.

UNDERSTANDING YOUR CHAIN SAW
SAFETY DEVICES

SAFE-T-TIP® ANTI-KICKBACK NOSE GUARD

See Figure 3.

The SAFE-T-TIP® prevents kickback because it covers the
tip of the bar where rotational kickback is generated.
Inexperienced persons should never attempt to cut when
the SAFE-T-TIP® has been removed from the bar tip.

SAFE-T-TIP

Users, such as professional loggers who need to draw the
tip through the cut, make boring cuts, or cut logs bigger
than the bar length, should reinstall the SAFE-T-TIP® as
soon as those cuts are complete. When cutting without
the SAFE-T-TIP®, the user must use proper techniques as
shown in the manual to avoid kickback.

Note: Refer to “Maintenance” later in this manual for
instructions on reinstalling the SAFE-T-TIP nose guard.

®

Fig. 3

LOW KICKBACK SAW CHAIN

The rakers (depth gauges) ahead of each cutter can
minimize the force of a kickback reaction by preventing
the cutters from digging in too deeply at the kickback
zone. Only use replacement chain that is equivalent to
the original chain or has been certified as a low kickback
chain.

As saw chains are sharpened, they lose some of the low
kickback qualities and extra caution is required.

GUIDE BARS

Generally, guide bars with small radius tips have some­what lower kickback potentials.

When making a replacement, be sure to order one of the
Homelite bars listed for your saw in this operator's
manual. The proper size SAFE-T-TIP® nose guard comes
installed on the bar. Use only guide bars that have a
provision for mounting the SAFE-T-TIP®.

CHAIN BRAKE

See Figures 4 and 5.

Chain brakes are designed to quickly stop the chain from
rotating. When the chain brake lever/hand guard is

WARNING:

Even with daily cleaning of the mechanism, the
dependability of a chain brake to perform under field
conditions cannot be certified. Keep the SAFE-T­TIP® nose guard on your saw's guide bar and use
proper cutting techniques.

RUN POSITION

Fig. 4

BRAKE

POSITION

Fig. 5

WARNING:

KICKBACK

an object at the upper portion of the tip of the guide
bar or when the wood closes in and pinches the saw
chain in the cut. Contact at the upper portion of the
tip of the guide bar can cause the chain to dig into
the object and stop the chain for an instant. The
result is a lightning fast, reverse reaction which
kicks the guide bar up and back toward the
operator. If the saw chain is pinched along the top of
the guide bar, the guide bar can be driven rapidly
back toward the operator. Either of these reactions
can cause loss of saw control which can result in
serious 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.

occurs when the moving chain contacts

Page 9

OPERATION

KICKBACK PRECAUTIONS

See Figures 6 and 7.

Rotational kickback occurs when the moving chain con­tacts an object at the Kickback Danger Zone of the guide
bar. The result is a lightning fast, reverse reaction which
kicks the guide bar up and back towards the operator. This
reaction can cause loss of control which can result in
serious injury.

KICKBACK DANGER

ZONE

Fig. 6

ROTATIONAL

KICKBACK

■■

■ Keep gasoline and oil away from the eyes. If gasoline

■■

or oil comes in contact with the eyes, wash them
immediately with clean water. If irritation is still present,
see a doctor immediately.

■■

■ Clean up spilled fuel immediately.

■■

MIXING THE FUEL

■■

■ This product is powered by a 2-cycle engine and

■■

requires pre-mixing gasoline and 2-cycle oil. Pre-mix
unleaded gasoline and 2-cycle engine oil in a clean
container approved for gasoline.

■■

■ This engine is certified to operate on unleaded gasoline

■■

intended for automotive use with an octane rating of 87
([R + M] / 2) or higher.

■■

■ Do not use any type of pre-mixed gasoline/oil from fuel

■■

service stations, this includes the pre-mixed gasoline/oil
intended for use in mopeds, motorcycles, etc.

■■

■ Use a high quality 2-cycle self-mixing oil for air-cooled

■■

engines. DO NOT use automotive oil or 2-cycle out­board oil.

■■

■ Mix 2% oil into the gasoline. This is a 50:1 ratio.

■■

■■

■ Mix the fuel thoroughly and each time before fueling.

■■

■■

■ Mix in small quantities. Do not mix quantities larger

■■

than usable in a 30-day period. A 2-cycle oil containing
a fuel stabilizer is recommended.

Fig. 7

WARNING:

Always shut off engine before fueling. Never add fuel
to a machine with a running or hot engine. Move at
least 30 ft. (9 m) from refueling site before starting
the engine. DO NOT SMOKE! Failure to heed this
warning can result in possible personal injury.

FUEL AND REFUELING

HANDLING THE FUEL SAFELY

See Figure 8.

WARNING:

Check for fuel leaks, if any are found, correct them
before using the saw to prevent fire or burn injury.

50:1

GAS

FILLING THE TANK

See Figure 8.

Refer to “Specific Safety Rules – Refueling” earlier in this
manual for additional safety information.

1. Clean the surface around fuel cap to prevent contamina­tion.

2. Loosen the fuel cap slowly.

3. Carefully pour the fuel mixture into the tank. Avoid

spillage.

4. Prior to replacing the fuel cap, clean and inspect the
gasket.

5. Immediately replace the fuel cap and hand tighten.
Wipe up any fuel spillage.

Note: It is normal for the engine to emit smoke during
and after the first use.

GAS

OILOIL

OILOIL

50:1

FUEL

FUEL

MIX

MIX

■■

■ Always handle fuel with care, it is highly flammable.

■■

■■

■ Always refuel outdoors and do not inhale fuel vapors.

■■

■■

■ Do not let gasoline or oil come in contact with skin.

■■

Page 10

1 Quart + .67 oz. =
2 Quart + 1.35 oz. =
3 Quart + 2.0 oz. =
4 Quart + 2.7 oz. =
5 Quart + 3.38 oz. =

50:1

}

OPERATION

STOP

Fig. 8

ADDING OIL

See Figures 9 and 10.

Use HOMELITE Bar and Chain Oil. It is designed for
chains and chain oilers, and is formulated to perform over
a wide temperature range with no dilution required. Chain
saw should use approximately one tank of oil per tank of
fuel.

Note: Do not use dirty, used or otherwise contaminated
oils. Damage may occur to the oil pump, bar, or chain.

1. Carefully pour the bar and chain oil into the tank.

2. Fill the oil tank every time you fuel the engine.

OPERATING THE CHAIN BRAKE

See Figures 10, 11 and 12.

Refer to “Safety” earlier in this manual for additional
information.

Check the operating condition of the chain brake prior to
each use.

1. Using the back of your left hand, engage the chain

brake by pushing the chain brake lever/hand guard
toward the bar while the chain is rotating rapidly.

2. Reset the chain brake back into the RUN position by

grasping the top of the chain brake lever/hand guard
and pull toward the front handle until you hear a click.

WARNING:

If the chain brake does not stop the chain
immediately, take the saw to a Homelite Service
Center for repair prior to use.

BRAKE POSITION

Fig. 9

Fig. 10

Fig. 11

RUN POSITION

Fig. 12

Page 11

OPERATION

STARTING THE ENGINE

See Figures 13 through 19.

WARNING:

Keep your body to the left of the chain line. Never
straddle the saw or chain, or lean over past the
chain line.

1. Place the chain saw on level ground and ensure that no
objects or obstructions are in the immediate vicinity that
could come in contact with the bar and chain.

2. Hold the front handle firmly with the left hand and put
your right foot onto the base of the rear handle.

STARTER

GRIP

3. Set the Ignition Switch to the RUN (I) position.

4. Make sure the chain brake is in the RUN position by

pulling back on the lever / hand guard.

5. Fully press and release the PRIMER BULB 7 times.

6. Pull CHOKE lever all the way OUT to full position. The

partial throttle position is automatically set when the
choke lever is set at full choke.

RUN POSITION

PRIMER BULB

See Figure 15.

Fig. 15

IGNITION SWITCH

IN THE RUN

POSITION

Fig. 13

Fig. 16

Fig. 14

CHOKE LEVER

Fig. 17

Page 12

OPERATION

CHOKE LEVER

7. When the temperature is above 50° F, pull the
STARTER GRIP until the engine attempts to start, but
no more than 3 times. When the temperature is below
50° F, pull the STARTER GRIP until the engine
attempts to start, but no more than 5 times.

8. Push CHOKE lever all the way IN.

9. Pull the STARTER GRIP until engine runs.
Note: Allow the saw to run in this position 15-30

seconds depending upon the temperature.

10. SQUEEZE and release the throttle trigger to return the
engine to idle.

See Figure 18.

Fig. 18

Now you are ready to pick up the saw. Use the proper
grip for both handles, refer to “Operation” for additional
information.

STOPPING THE ENGINE

See Figures 20 and 21.

Release the throttle trigger and let the engine return to
idle. To stop the engine, move the Ignition Switch to the
“ O ” stop position. Do not put the chain saw on the
ground when the chain is still moving. For additional
safety, set the chain brake when the saw is not in use.

In the event that the Ignition Switch will not stop the saw,
pull the choke lever out to the fully extended position (See
Figure 17) and engage chain brake to stop the engine.

If the Ignition Switch will not stop the saw when set to the
stop “ O ” position, have the Ignition Switch repaired
before using the chain saw again to prevent unsafe
conditions or serious injury.

Important: When you are finished using the saw, relieve
tank pressures by loosening the CHAIN OIL and FUEL
MIX caps. Then retighten the caps. Allow the engine to
cool before storing.

IGNITION SWITCH

IN THE STOP

POSITION

CAUTION:

Failure to release partial throttle when chain brake
lever is in the brake position will result in serious
damage to the unit. Never squeeze and hold the
throttle trigger while the chain brake is in the brake
position.

TRIGGER

RELEASE

STOP

THROTTLE TRIGGER

Fig. 19

Fig. 20

BRAKE POSITION

Fig. 21

Page 13

OPERATION

PREPARING FOR CUTTING

PROPER GRIP ON HANDLES

See Figure 22 and 23.

Refer to “Specific Safety Rules – Safety Apparel” earlier in
this manual for appropriate safety equipment.

■■

■ Wear non-slip gloves for maximum grip and protection.

■■

■■

■ Hold the saw firmly with both hands. 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.

WARNING:

Never use a left-handed (cross-handed) grip or any
stance that would place your body or arm across the
chain line.

■■

■ Maintain a proper grip on the saw whenever the engine

■■

is running. The fingers should encircle the handle and
the thumb is wrapped under the handlebar. This grip is
least likely to be broken (by a kickback or other sudden
reaction of the saw). Any grip in which the thumb and
fingers are on the same side of the handle is dangerous
because a slight kick of the saw can cause loss of
control.

CHAIN LINE

WARNING:

DO NOT operate the throttle trigger with your left
hand and hold the front handle with your right hand.
Never allow any part of your body to be in the chain
line while operating a saw.

PROPER CUTTING STANCE

See Figure 24.

■■

■ Balance your weight with both feet on solid ground.

■■

■■

■ Keep left arm with elbow locked in a “straight arm”

■■

position to withstand any kickback force.

■■

■ Keep your body to the left of the chain line.

■■

■■

■ Keep your thumb on underside of handlebar.

■■

STRAIGHT

THUMB ON

UNDERSIDE OF

HANDLE BAR

CHAIN LINE

ARM

PROPER GRIP

Fig. 22

Fig. 24

Fig. 23

Page 14

OPERATION

BASIC OPERATING/CUTTING PROCEDURES

Practice cutting a few small logs using the following
technique to get the “feel” of using your saw before you
begin a major sawing operation.

1. Take the proper stance in front of the wood with the saw

idling.

2. Accelerate the engine to full throttle just before entering

the cut by squeezing the throttle trigger.

3. Begin cutting with the saw against the log.

4. Keep the engine at full throttle the entire time you are

cutting.

5. Allow the chain to cut for you; exert only light downward

pressure. Forcing the cut could result in damage to the
bar, chain, or engine.

6. Release the throttle trigger as soon as the cut is com-

pleted allowing the engine to idle. Running the saw at
full throttle without a cutting load can result in unneces­sary wear to the chain, bar, and engine.

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

WORK AREA PRECAUTIONS

See Figure 25.

■■

■ Cut only wood or materials made from wood; no sheet metal,

■■

no plastics, no masonry, no non-wood building materials.

■■

■ Never allow children to operate your saw. Allow no

■■

person to use this chain saw who has not read this
operator's manual or received adequate instructions for
the safe and proper use of this chain saw.

■■

■ Keep everyone – helpers, bystanders, children, and

■■

animals, a SAFE DISTANCE from the cutting area.
During felling operations, the safe distance should be a
least twice the height of the largest trees in the felling
area. During bucking operations, keep a minimum
distance of 15 feet (4.5 m) between workers.

ADJUSTING THE CARBURETOR

See Figures 26 and 27.

Before adjusting the carburetor, clean the air filter and the
starter cover vents. Allow the engine to warm up prior to
carburetor adjustment. Refer to “Maintenance” later in this
manual.

AIR FILTER

Fig. 26

STOP

STARTER COVER

VENTS

The carburetor is factory set and should not require
adjusting. The carburetor will permit only limited adjust­ment of the “L” (Low Jet) and “H” (High Jet) needles. Any
adjustment should be done by a Homelite Service Center.

Under no circumstances should the “L” (Low Jet) and “H”
(High Jet) needles be forced outside the range of adjust­ment.

Fig. 27

Fig. 25

■■

■ Always cut with both feet on solid ground to prevent

■■

being pulled off balance.

■■

■ Do not cut above chest height as a saw held higher is

■■

difficult to control against kickback forces.

■■

■ Do not fell trees near electrical wires or buildings.

■■

Leave this operation for professionals.

■■

■ Cut only when visibility and light are adequate for you

■■

to see clearly.

CAUTION:

Serious damage can occur to the engine if improper
adjustments are made to the “L” and “H” needles.

Do not force the “L” and “H” needles outside the
adjustment range!

Page 15

OPERATION

ADJUSTING IDLE SPEED

See Figure 28.

■■

■ If the engine starts, runs, and accelerates but will not

■■

idle, turn the idle speed screw “ T ” clockwise to
increase idle speed.

■■

■ If the chain turns at idle, turn the idle speed screw “ T ”

■■

counterclockwise to reduce the idle RPM and stop the
chain movement. If the saw chain still moves at idle
speed, contact a Homelite Service Center for adjust­ment and discontinue use until the repair is made.

WARNING:

THE SAW CHAIN SHOULD NEVER TURN AT IDLE.
Turn the idle speed screw “T” counterclockwise to
reduce the idle RPM and stop the chain, or contact a
Homelite Service Center for adjustment and
discontinue use until the repair is made.

Serious personal injury may result from the saw
chain turning at idle.

FELLING TREES

HAZARDOUS CONDITIONS

WARNING:

Do not fell trees during periods of high wind or heavy
precipitation. Wait until the hazardous weather has
ended.

When felling a tree, it is important that you heed the
following warnings to prevent possible serious injury.

■■

■ Do not cut down trees having an extreme lean or large

■■

trees with rotten limbs, loose bark, or hollow trunks.
Have these trees pushed or dragged down with heavy
equipment, then cut them up.

■■

■ Do not cut 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

■■

backcut 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

■■

saw gets caught or hung up during the fall, leave the
saw and save yourself!

STOP

Fig. 28

WARNING:

Weather conditions and altitude may affect
carburetion.
Do not allow bystanders close to the chain saw while
adjusting the carburetor.

Page 16

OPERATION

PROPER PROCEDURE FOR TREE FELLING

See Figures 30, 31, 32, and 33.

1. Pick your escape route (or routes in case the in-

tended route is blocked). Clear the immediate area
around the tree and make sure there are no obstruc­tions in your planned path of retreat. Clear the path of
safe retreat approximately 135° from the planned line
of fall.

2. Consider the force and direction of the wind, the lean

and balance of the tree, and the location of large
limbs. These things influence the direction in which
the tree will fall. Do not try to fell a tree along a line
different from its natural line of fall.

3. Cut a notch about 1/3 the diameter of the trunk in the

side of the tree. Make the notch cuts so they intersect
at a right angle to the line of fall. This notch should be
cleaned out to leave a straight line. To keep the weight
of the wood off the saw, always make the lower cut of
the notch before the upper cut.

4. Make the backcut level and horizontal, and at a mini-

mum of 2 inches (5 cm) above the horizontal cut of the
notch.

PLANNED LINE OF

FALL

135° FROM

PLANNED LINE

OF FALL

PLANNED

LINE OF FALL

135°

45°

90°

PATH OF SAFE

RETREAT

PATH OF

SAFE

RETREAT

90°

BACK CUT

2" (5 CM)

45°

135°

Fig. 30

HINGE

2" (5 CM) OR 1/10 DIA

NOTCH -

APPROX. 1/3

DIAMETER OF

TRUNK

Fig. 31

Page 17

OPERATION

Note: Never cut through to the notch. Always leave a

band of wood between the notch and back cut (approxi­mately 2 inches (5 cm) or 1/10 the diameter of the tree).
This is called "hinge" or "hingewood". It controls the fall
of the tree and prevents slipping or twisting or shoot­back of the tree off the stump.

On large diameter trees, stop the back cut before it is
deep enough for the tree to either fall or settle back on
the stump. Then insert soft wooden or plastic wedges
into the cut so they do not touch the chain. Drive
wedges in, little by little, to help jack the tree over.

When bucking or felling with a wedge, it may be
necessary to remove the SAFE-T-TIP® anti-kickback
device to allow the bar to be drawn through the cut.
After you complete the cut, reinstall the tip immediately.

5. As tree starts to fall, stop the chain saw and put it down
immediately. Retreat along the cleared path, but watch
the action in case something falls your way.

WARNING:

HINGE

BACK CUT

Fig. 32

Never cut through to the notch when making a back
cut. The hinge controls the fall of the tree, this is the
section of wood between the notch and backcut.

WEDGE

Fig. 33

Page 18

OPERATION

REMOVING BUTTRESS ROOTS

See Figure 34.

A buttress root is a large root extending from the trunk of
the tree above the ground. Remove large buttress roots
prior to felling. Make the horizontal cut into the buttress
first, followed by the vertical cut. Remove the resulting
loose section from the work area. Follow the correct tree
felling procedure after you have removed the large
buttress roots. Refer to “Operation – Proper Procedure for
Tree Felling” earlier in this manual.

BUCKING

See Figure 35.

Bucking is the term used for cutting a fallen tree to the
desired log length.

■■

■ Cut only one log at a time.

■■

■■

■ Support small logs on a saw horse or another log while

■■

bucking.

■■

■ Keep a clear cutting area. Make sure that no objects

■■

can contact the guide bar nose and chain during
cutting, this can cause kickback. To avoid the danger,
keep the SAFE-T-TIP® anti-kickback device attached
while cutting. Refer to “Specific Safety Rules - Kick­back” earlier in this manual.

■■

■ During bucking operations, stand on the uphill side so

■■

that the cut-off section of the log cannot roll over you.

■■

■ Sometimes it is impossible to avoid pinching (with just

■■

standard cutting techniques) or difficult to predict which
way a log will settle when cut.

VERTICAL CUT

LOOSE

SECTION

HORIZONTAL

CUT

Fig. 34

KICKBACK

BUCKING WITH A WEDGE

See Figure 36.

If the wood diameter is large enough for you to insert a
soft bucking wedge without touching the chain, you
should use the wedge to hold the cut open to prevent
pinching.

Note: When bucking or felling with a wedge, you may
need to remove the SAFE-T-TIP® anti-kickback device to
allow the bar to be drawn through the cut. After you
complete, reinstall the tip.

Fig. 35

WEDGE

Fig. 36

Page 19

OPERATION

BUCKING LOGS UNDER STRESS

See Figure 37.

Make the first bucking cut 1/3 of the way through the log
and finish with a 2/3 cut on the opposite side. As you cut
the log, it will tend to bend. The saw can become pinched
or hung in the log if you make the first cut deeper than 1/3
of the diameter of the log.

Give special attention to logs under stress to prevent the
bar and chain from pinching.

OVERBUCKING

See Figure 38.

Begin on the top side of the log with the bottom of the saw
against the log; exert light pressure downward. Note that
the saw will tend to pull away from you.

UNDERBUCKING

See Figure 38.

Begin on the under side 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 firmly to
maintain control.

LOG SUPPORTED AT ONE END

FINISHING CUT

1ST CUT 1/3 DIA

LOG SUPPORTED AT BOTH ENDS

1ST CUT 1/3 DIA

LOAD

LOAD

FINISHING CUT

OVERBUCKING

UNDERBUCKING

Fig. 37

Page 20

Fig. 38

OPERATION

LIMBING AND PRUNING

See Figure 39.

■ Work slowly, keeping both hands on the saw with a
firm grip. Maintain secure footing and balance.

■ Keep the tree between you and the chain while
limbing.

■ Do not cut from a ladder, this is extremely dangerous.
Leave this operation for professionals.

■ Do not cut above chest height as a saw held higher is
difficult to control against kickback.

LOAD

FIRST CUT

1/3 DIAMETER

SECOND CUT

WARNING:

Never climb into a tree to limb or prune. Do not stand
on ladders, platforms, a log, or in any position which
can cause you to lose your balance or control of the
saw.

■ When pruning trees it is important not to make the
flush cut next to the main limb or trunk until you have
cut off the limb further out to reduce the weight. This
prevents stripping the bark from the main member.

See Figure 39.

1. Underbuck the branch 1/3 through for your first cut.

2. Overbuck the branch to drop it.

3. Finish by cutting smoothly and neatly against the

main member so the bark will grow back to seal the
wound.

WARNING:

If the limbs to be pruned are above chest height, hire a
professional to perform the pruning.

CUTTING SPRINGPOLES

See Figure 40.

A springpole is any log, branch, rooted stump, or sapling
which is bent under tension by other wood so that it
springs back if the wood holding it is cut or removed. On a
fallen tree, a rooted stump has a high potential of spring­ing back to the upright position during the bucking cut to
separate the log from the stump. Watch out for spring­poles, they are dangerous.

FINISHING CUT

Fig. 39

SPRINGPOLE

Fig. 40

WARNING:

Springpoles are dangerous and could strike the
operator causing the operator to lose control of the
chain saw. This could result in severe or fatal injury
to the operator.

Page 21

MAINTENANCE

ASSEMBLING THE BAR AND CHAIN

See Figures 41 through 51.

DANGER:

Never start the engine before installing the guide bar,
chain, drivecase cover, and clutch drum. Without all
these parts in place, the clutch can fly off or explode
exposing the user to possible serious injury.

WARNING:

COMBINATION

WRENCH

To avoid serious personal injury, read and
understand all the safety instructions in this section.

1. Always place the Ignition Switch in the stop “O”
position before you work on the saw.

2. Make sure the chain brake is not set by pulling the
chain brake lever/hand guard towards the front handle
to the RUN position.

3. Wear gloves when handling the chain and bar. These
components are sharp and may contain burrs.

4. Remove the bar mounting nuts using a combination

wrench or 5/8 in. wrench.

5. Remove the clutch cover, and the outer guide bar plate.

RUN POSITION

BAR MOUNTING NUTS

Fig. 42

CLUTCH

COVER

GUIDE BAR

PLATE

BAR MOUNTING NUTS

Fig. 43

Fig. 41

Page 22

MAINTENANCE

6. Lay out the saw chain in a loop and straighten any

kinks. The cutters should face in the direction of chain
rotation. If they face backwards, turn the loop over.

7. Place the chain drive links into the bar groove as
shown in figure 46.

8. Position the chain so there is a loop at the back of the
bar.

9. Hold the chain in position on the bar and place the loop
around the sprocket.

10. Fit the bar flush against the mounting surface so that
the bar studs are in the long slot of the bar.

Note for UT10942D: When placing the bar on the bar
studs ensure that the adjusting pin is in the chain
tension pin hole.

11. Replace the outer guide bar plate ensuring that the bar

pin groove is at the bottom with the upper and lower
edges angled away from the guide bar.

12. Replace the clutch cover and bar mounting nuts.

13. Tighten the bar mounting nuts finger tight only. The

bar must be free to move for tension adjustment.

BAR

GROOVE

CHAIN DRIVE LINKS

Fig. 46

BAR STUDS

CUTTERS

CHAIN DRIVE LINKS

CHAIN ROTATION

Fig. 44

Fig. 45

ADJUSTING PIN

FOR UT10942D

GUIDE BAR

PLATE

SPROCKET

BAR

MOUNTING

NUTS

CLUTCH

COVER

Fig. 47

Page 23

MAINTENANCE

14. Remove all slack from the chain using the chain

tensioning screw. Place a slotted screwdriver in the
slot and turn clockwise until the chain seats snugly
against the bar with the drive links in the bar groove.

UT10942D

CHAIN TENSIONING

SCREW

15. Lift the tip of the guide bar up to check for sag.

16. Release the tip of the guide bar and turn the chain

tensioning screw 1/2 turn clockwise. Repeat this
process until sag does not exist.

17. Hold the tip of the guide bar up and tighten the bar
mounting nuts securely.

The chain is correctly tensioned when there is no sag on
the underside of the guide bar, the chain is snug, but it can
be turned by hand without binding. Ensure that the chain
brake is not set.

Note: If chain is too tight, it will not rotate. Loosen the bar
nuts slightly and turn the tension adjuster 1/4 turn counter­clockwise. Lift the tip of the guide bar up and retighten the
bar mounting nuts securely. Ensure that the chain will
rotate without binding.

UT10927D
UT10946D

Fig. 49

CHAIN TENSIONING

SCREW

Fig. 50

Fig. 48

Page 24

Fig. 51

MAINTENANCE

ADJUSTING THE CHAIN TENSION

See Figures 52, 53, and 54

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 on
the chain.

1. Stop the engine before setting the chain tension.

2. Make sure the guide bar mounting nuts are loosened to

finger tight, turn the chain tensioner clockwise to
tension the chain.

Note: A cold chain is correctly tensioned when there is
no slack on the underside of the guide bar, the chain is
snug and it can be turned by hand without binding.

3. Retension the chain whenever the flats on the drive
links hang out of the bar groove.

Note: During normal saw operation, the temperature of
the chain increases. The drive links of a correctly
tensioned warm chain will hang approximately .050 in.
(1.25 mm) out of the bar groove. To help determine the
correct warm chain tension, use the tip of the combina­tion wrench as a guide.

Note: New chain tends to stretch, check the chain
tension frequently and tension as required.

CAUTION:

A chain tensioned while warm may be too tight upon
cooling. Check the “cold tension” before next use.

FLATS ON DRIVE LINKS

.

≈≈

≈ .050 in. (1.25 mm)

≈≈

Fig. 53

≈ ≈

≈

.050 (1.25 mm)

≈ ≈

Fig. 54

CHAIN MAINTENANCE

See Figures 55 and 56.

CAUTION:

Check that the Ignition Switch is in the OFF “O” position
before you work on the saw.

Use only a low-kickback chain on this saw. This fast-cutting
chain provides kickback reduction when properly main­tained.

For smooth and fast cutting, maintain the chain properly.

The chain requires sharpening when the wood chips are
small and powdery, the chain must be forced through the
wood during cutting, or the chain cuts to one side. During
maintenance of the chain, consider the following:

■■

■ Improper filing angle of the side plate can increase the

■■

risk of a severe kickback.

Fig. 52

Page 25

MAINTENANCE

■ Raker (depth gauge) clearance.

1. Too low increases the potential for kickback.

2. Not low enough decreases cutting ability.

■ If the cutter teeth hit hard objects such as nails and
stones, or are abraded by mud or sand on the wood,
have the Homelite Service Center sharpen the chain.

Note: Inspect the drive sprocket for wear or damage
when replacing the chain. If signs of wear or damage
are present in the areas indicated, have the drive
sprocket replaced by a Homelite Service Center.

RAKER

CLEARANCE

Fig. 55

INSPECT DRIVE

SPROCKET

SHARPENING THE CUTTERS

See Figures 57, 58, 59, 60, and 61.

Be careful to file all cutters to the specified angles and to
the same length, as fast cutting can only be obtained when
all cutters are uniform.

1. Wear gloves for protection.

2. Tension the chain prior to sharpening.

Note: Refer to “Maintenance – Adjusting the Chain

Tension” earlier in this manual.

3. Use a 3/16 in. diameter round file and holder. Do all of
your filing at the midpoint of the bar.

4. Keep the file level with the top plate of the tooth. Do not
let the file dip or rock.

5. Using light but firm pressure. Stroke towards the front
corner of the tooth.

6. Lift the file away from the steel on each return stroke.

7. Put a few firm strokes on every tooth. File all left hand

cutters in one direction. Then move to the other side
and file the right hand cutters in the opposite direction.

8. Remove filings from the file with a wire brush.

See Figure 60.

Fig. 56

TOP PLATE

RIVET HOLE

HEEL

CUTTING
CORNER

SIDE PLATE

DEPTH GAUGE

TOE

GULLET

Fig. 57

RAKER (DEPTH

GAUGE)

CLEARANCE

Fig. 58

Page 26

MAINTENANCE

LEFT HAND

CUTTERS

Fig. 59

Fig. 60

RIGHT HAND

CUTTERS

Fig. 61

CAUTION:

A dull or improperly sharpened chain can cause
excessive engine speed during cutting which may
result in severe engine damage.

WARNING:

Improper chain sharpening increases the potential of
kickback.

WARNING:

Failure to replace or repair a damaged chain can
cause serious injury.

WARNING:

Page 27

The saw chain is very sharp. Always wear protective
gloves when performing maintenance to the chain.

MAINTENANCE

TOP PLATE FILING ANGLE

See Figure 62.

■ CORRECT 30° - file holders are marked with guide
marks to align file properly to produce correct top plate
angle.

■ LESS THAN 30° – for cross cutting.

■ MORE THAN 30° – feathered edge dulls quickly.

SIDE PLATE ANGLE

See Figure 63.

■ CORRECT 80o – Produced automatically if you use the
correct diameter file in the file holder.

■ HOOK – “Grabs” and dulls quickly, increases the
potential of KICKBACK.

Results from using a file with a diameter too small or a
file held too low.

■ BACKWARD SLOPE – Needs too much feed pressure,
causes excessive wear to the bar and chain.

Results from using a file with a diameter too large or file
held too high.

TOP PLATE FILING ANGLE

30°

CORRECT

LESS THAN 30°

MORE THAN 30°

SIDE PLATE FILING ANGLE

80°

CORRECT

HOOK

INCORRECT

BACKWARD SLOPE

Fig. 63

MAINTAINING DEPTH GAUGE CLEARANCE

See Figure 64, 65, and 66.

■ Maintain the depth gauge at a clearance of .025 in.
(0.6 mm). Use a depth gauge tool for checking the
depth gauge clearances.

■ Every time the chain is filed, check the depth gauge
clearance.

■ Use a flat file and a depth gauge jointer to lower all
gauges uniformly. Use a .025 in. (0.6mm) depth gauge
jointer. After lowering each depth gauge, restore original
shape by rounding the front. Be careful not to damage
adjoining drive links with the edge of the file.

■ Depth gauges must be adjusted with the flat file in the
same direction the adjoining cutter was filed with the
round file. Use care not to contact cutter face with flat
file when adjusting depth gauges.

INCORRECT

Fig. 62

DEPTH GAUGE

.025 in.

(0.6 mm)

Fig. 64

DEPTH GAUGE JOINTER

FLAT FILE

Fig. 65

Page 28

MAINTENANCE

RESTORE ORIGINAL

SHAPE BY ROUNDING

THE FRONT

MAINTAINING THE SAFE-T-TIP® NOSE
GUARD

See Figures 68 and 69.

CAUTION:

Make sure the chain has stopped before you do any
work on the saw.

Fig. 66

MAINTAINING THE GUIDE BAR

See Figure 67.

CAUTION:

Make sure the chain has stopped before you do any
work on the saw.

Every week of use, reverse the guide bar 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 file as
soon as they occur.

A bar with any of the following faults should be replaced:

■ Wear inside the bar rails that permits the chain to lay
over sideways

■ Bent guide bar

■ Cracked or broken rails

■ Spread rails

In addition, lubricate guide bars (with a sprocket at their
tip) weekly. Using a grease syringe, lubricate weekly in the
lubricating hole.

Turn the guide bar and check that the lubrication holes and
chain groove are free from impurities.

WARNING:

Although the guide bar comes with a SAFE-T-TIP
anti-kickback device already installed, you need to
check the tightness of the mounting screw before each
use.

Tighten the mounting screw of the nose guard as in­structed below. These are specially hardened screws. If
you cannot install the screw tightly, replace both the screw
and the SAFE-T-TIP®, before further operation.

Note: Do not replace the screw with an ordinary screw;
manufacturer's replacement parts should be used when
replacing parts.

In addition to preventing chain contact with solid objects
at the nose of the bar, the SAFE-T-TIP® also helps keep
the chain away from abrasive surfaces, such as the
ground. Keep it on the right hand side of the bar where it
will be between the chain and the ground during flush with
ground cutting.

The mounting screw requires a 5/16 in. wrench (or
adjustable wrench) to achieve the recommended tight­ness of 35 to 45 in. lb. (4-5 Nm). A tightness within this
range can be achieved by using the following method.

1. Tighten the screw to a finger tight position.

2. Tighten the screw an additional 3/4 of a turn using a

wrench.

MOUNTING

SCREW

®

LUBRICATING HOLE

Fig. 67

Page 29

SAFE-T-TIP

Fig. 68

®

TIGHTEN 3/4 OF

A TURN

MAINTENANCE

■ Clean the pre-filter every 25 tanks of fuel or sooner, if
required. Remove the cylinder cover, starter assembly
and the fan housing baffle for access to the pre-filter in
the engine housing.

Note: If you use an air hose for drying, blow through

both sides of filter.

CAUTION:

Fig. 69

MOUNTING THE SAFE-T-TIP® NOSE GUARD

See Figures 68 and 69.

1. Mount the SAFE-T-TIP® on the bar nose.

2. Fit the locking rivet or tab in the recessed hole in the

guide bar.

3. Tighten the screw with your finger.

4. From the finger tight position, tighten the screw an

additional 3/4 of a turn using a wrench.

CLEANING THE AIR FILTER

See Figures 70, 71, and 72.

Note: Always clean the air filter before making any mixture
adjustments of the carburetor.

1. For access to the air filter and carburetor area, loosen
the three screws holding the cylinder cover.

2. Activate chain brake.

3. Lift the front of the cylinder cover past chain brake

lever.

4. Lift the back of the cylinder cover past the handle.

5. Before removing the air filter from the carburetor, blow

or brush as much loose dirt and sawdust from around
the carburetor and chamber as possible.

Note: Make sure to pull the choke lever out to keep
the carburetor from being contaminated.

6. Remove the screw securing the air filter.

7. Position a flat screw driver between the tabs and twist.

8. Lift the air filter off the air filter base.

Choose one of the following cleaning options:

9. To lightly clean, tap the filter against a smooth, flat
surface to dislodge most saw dust and dirt particles.

10. For a more thorough cleaning, clean in warm soapy
water, rinse, and let dry completely.

Note: An alternate method is to clean the filter with
compressed air (always wear eye protection to avoid
eye injury).

11. Reinstall the air filter, making sure that the tabs on the
air filter are located in channels on the air filter bottom
before tightening filter retainer screw.

Never run the engine without the air filter, serious
damage could result.

Make sure the air filter is correctly placed in the air
filter cover before reassembly.

CYLINDER COVER

SCREW

SCREWS

STOP

Fig. 70

AIR FILTER

AIR FILTER
RETAINING

SCREW

Fig. 71

FAN

HOUSING

BAFFLE

STOP

PRE-FILTER

Page 30

STARTER ASSEMBLY

Fig. 72

MAINTENANCE

CLEANING THE STARTER UNIT

See Figure 73.

Use a brush or compressed air to keep the cooling vents
of the starter assembly free and clean of debris.

CLEAN FLYWHEEL

FINS

STOP

Fig. 73

CLEANING THE ENGINE

See Figures 74 and 75.

Clean the cylinder fins and flywheel fins with compressed
air or a brush periodically. Dangerous overheating of the
engine may occur due to impurities on the cylinder.

WARNING

Never run the saw without all the parts, including the
drivecase cover and starter housing, securely in
place.

Because parts can fracture and pose a danger of
thrown objects, leave repairs of the flywheel and
clutch to trained Homelite Service Center personnel.

CLEAN

CYLINDER FINS

Fig. 75

CHECKING THE FUEL FILTER

See Figure 76.

Check the fuel filter periodically. Replace it if contaminated
or damaged.

STOP

FUEL FILTER

Fig. 76

REPLACING THE SPARK PLUG

See Figure 77.

This engine uses a Champion RCJ-4 with .025 in. (0.63
mm) electrode gap. Use an exact replacement and replace
every six months or more frequently, if necessary.

1. Loosen the spark plug by turning it counterclockwise
with a wrench.

2. Remove the spark plug.

3. Hand thread the new spark plug, turning it clockwise.

Note: Be careful not to cross-thread the spark plug.

Cross-threading will seriously damage the product.

Fig. 74

Note: Depending on the type of fuel used, the type and
amount of oil used, and/or your operating conditions, the
exhaust port and muffler may become blocked with
carbon deposits. If you notice a power loss with your gas
powered tool, you may need to remove these deposits to
restore performance. We highly recommended that only
qualified service technicians perform this service.

Fig. 77

Page 31

MAINTENANCE

CLEANING THE SPARK ARRESTING
MUFFLER

See Figure 78.

The muffler is equipped with a spark arrestor screen. A
faulty spark arrestor screen can create a fire hazard.
Through normal use the screen can become dirty and
should be inspected weekly and cleaned as required.
Always keep the muffler and spark arrestor on your saw in
good condition.

WARNING

CHAIN CATCHER

CLUTCH

COVER

Muffler surfaces are very hot during and after
operation of the chain saw, keep all body parts away
from the muffler. Serious burns may occur if contact is
made with the muffler.

1. Allow the muffler to cool.

2. The spark arrestor screen is retained by the deflector.

Remove the nuts and screen retainer to access the
spark arrestor screen.

3. Replace the spark arrestor screen if it is cracked or
otherwise deteriorated.

SPARK ARRESTOR

SCREEN

NUTS

MUFFLER

Fig. 78

CHAIN BRAKE

See Figures 79 and 80.

■■

■ Remove the clutch cover and clean the chain brake

■■

components. Check wear on the brake band and
replace if worn or deformed. The band thickness should
not be less than 0.024 in. (.60 mm), or worn halfway
through.

■■

■ Always keep the chain brake mechanism clean and

■■

lightly lubricate the linkage.

■■

■ Always test the chain brake performance after servicing

■■

or cleaning. Refer to “Operation - Operating Chain
Brake” earlier in this manual for additional information.

■■

■ Check and, if damaged, replace the chain catcher.

■■

BRAKE BAND

Fig. 79

CLEAN THE CHAIN BRAKE

LUBRICATE THE CHAIN

BRAKE LINKAGE

Fig. 80

STORING THE CHAIN SAW (1 MONTH OR
LONGER)

1. Drain all fuel from tank into a container approved for

gasoline.

2. Run the engine until it stops. This will remove all fuel-oil
mix that could become stale and leave varnish and gum
in the fuel system.

3. Drain all bar and chain oil from tank into a container
approved for oil.

4. Clean all foreign material from the saw.

5. Store it in a well-ventilated place that is inaccessible to

children.

Note: Keep away from corrosive agents such as garden
chemicals and deicing salts.

Abide by all federal and local regulations for the safe
storage and handling of gasoline. Excess fuel can be used
in other 2-cycle engine powered equipment requiring 50:1
ratio.

Page 32

BAR AND CHAIN COMBINATIONS

UT10927D - UT10946D

Length of Bar Guide Bar Part Number Chain Part Number

16 in. PS06132 PS06136

18 in. PS06131 PS06135

UT10942D

Length of Bar Guide Bar Part Number Chain Part Number

20 in. PS06301 PS06134

TROUBLESHOOTING

PROBLEM POSSIBLE CAUSE SOLUTION

Engine will not start.
(Make sure Ignition
Switch is in start
position “I”.)

Engine starts but will
not accelerate properly.

Engine starts but will
not run properly at high
speed .

1. No spark.

2. Flooded engine.

Carburetor requires “L” (Low jet)
adjustment.

Carburetor requires “H” (High jet)
adjustment.

1. Check spark. Remove air filter cover. Remove
spark plug from cylinder. Reattach the spark plug
wire and lay spark plug on top of cylinder with the
metal part of plug touching the cylinder. Pull the
starter rope and watch for spark at spark plug tip. If
there is no spark, repeat test with a new spark plug.

2. With the Ignition Switch off, remove spark plug.
Move choke lever to run position (pushed in com­pletely) and pull starter cord 15 to 20 times. This
will clear excess fuel from engine. Clean and
reinstall spark plug. Set Ignition Switch to run (I)
position. Push and fully release primer bulb 7 times.
Pull starter three times with choke lever at run. If
engine does not start, move choke lever to choke
and repeat normal starting procedure. If engine still
fails to start, repeat procedure with a new spark
plug.

Contact a Homelite Service Center for carburetor
adjustment.

Contact a Homelite Service Center for carburetor
adjustment.

Engine does not reach
full speed and/or emits
excessive smoke.

1. Oil / Fuel mixture is incorrect.

2. Air filter is dirty.

3. Spark arrester screen is dirty.

4. Carburetor requires “H” (High
jet) adjustment.

Page 33

1. Use fresh fuel and the correct 2-cycle oil mix ratio.

2. Clean air filter. Refer to “Maintenance – Cleaning
the Air Filter” earlier in this manual.

3. Clean spark arrestor screen. Refer to “Maintenance
– Cleaning the Spark Arresting Muffler” earlier in
this manual.

4. Contact a Homelite Service Center for carburetor
adjustment.

TROUBLESHOOTING

PROBLEM POSSIBLE CAUSE SOLUTION

Engine starts, runs, and
accelerates but will not
idle.

Chain turns at idle.

Bar and chain running
hot and smoking.

Engine starts and runs,
but chain is not rotating.

Carburetor requires adjustment.

Carburetor requires adjustment.

1. Chain oil tank empty.

2. Chain tension is too tight.

3. Oiler is not functioning.

1. Chain brake is engaged.

2. Chain tension is too tight.

3. Guide bar and chain as­sembled incorrectly.

4. Guide bar and/or chain are
damaged.

Turn idle speed screw “T” clockwise to increase idle
speed.

See Figure 81.

Turn idle speed screw “T” counterclockwise to
decrease speed.

See Figure 81.

1. Oil tank should be filled every time that fuel tank is
filled.

2. Tension chain per instructions in “Maintenance –
Adjusting the Chain Tension” earlier in this manual.

3. Run at half throttle 30 to 45 seconds. Stop saw
and check for oil dripping from SAFE-T-TIP and
guide bar. If oil is present the chain may be dull or
bar may be damaged. If no oil is on the SAFE-T­TIP, contact a Homelite Service Center.

1. Release chain brake, refer to “Operation – Operat­ing Chain Brake” earlier in this manual.

2. Tension chain per instructions in “Maintenance –
Adjusting the Chain Tension” earlier in this manual.

3. Refer to “Maintenance – Assembling the Bar and
Chain” earlier in this manual.

4. Inspect guide bar and chain for damage.

Note: The carburetor adjustment needle(s) are equipped with
plastic cap(s) that prevent counterclockwise rotation from the
original factory adjustment. If your product exhibits specific
performance problem(s) where the Troubleshooting Section
recommends a counterclockwise needle adjustment and you
have made no adjustments since the original purchase, take
the product to a factory authorized service center for repair. In
most cases, the needed adjustment is a simple task for the
factory trained service representative.

STOP

Fig. 81

Page 34

WARRANTY

LIMITED WARRANTY STATEMENT

Homelite Consumer Product, Inc. warrants to the original retail

purchaser that this HOMELITE product is free from defect in
material and workmanship and agrees to repair or replace, at
Homelite Consumer Products, Inc.’s discretion, any defective
product free of charge within these time periods from the date of
purchase.

■■

■ One year for the following units: Yard Broom, Trimlite, and

■■

Bandit;

■■

■ Two years for all other Homelite products, if the product is

■■

used for personal, family or household use;

■■

■ 90 days, if any of the above products are used for any other

■■

purpose, such as commercial or rental.

This warranty extends to the original retail purchaser only and
commences on the date of the original retail purchase.

Any part of the HOMELITE product manufactured or supplied by
HOMELITE and found in the reasonable judgment of HOMELITE
to be defective in material or workmanship will be repaired or
replaced by an authorized HOMELITE service dealer without
charge for parts and labor.

The HOMELITE product including any defective part must be
returned to an authorized service dealer within the warranty
period. The expense of delivering the HOMELITE product to the
dealer for warranty work and the expense of returning it back to
the owner after repair or replacement will be paid by the owner.
HOMELITE’S responsibility in respect to claims is limited to
making the required repairs or replacements and no claim of
breach of warranty shall be cause for cancellation or rescission of
the contract of sale of any HOMELITE product. Proof of purchase
will be required by the dealer to substantiate any warranty claim.
All warranty work must be performed by an authorized HOMELITE
service dealer.

This warranty is limited to ninety (90) days from the date of
original retail purchase for any HOMELITE product that is used for
rental or commercial purposes, or any other income-producing
purpose.

This warranty does not cover any HOMELITE product that has
been subject to misuse, neglect, negligence, or accident, or that
has been operated in any way contrary to the operating
instructions as specified in the HOMELITE operator’s manual.
This warranty does not apply to any damage to the HOMELITE
product that is the result of improper maintenance or to any
HOMELITE product that has been altered or modified. The
warranty does not extend to repairs made necessary by normal
wear or by the use of parts or accessories which are either
INCOMPATIBLE WITH THE HOMELITE product or adversely
affect its operation, performance or durability.

In addition, this warranty does not cover:
A. Tune-ups – Spark Plugs, Carburetor, Carburetor Adjustments,

Ignition, Filters

B. Wear items – Bump Knobs/Spool Retainers, Outer Spools,

Cutting Lines, Inner Reels, Starter Pulley, Starter Ropes, Drive
Belts

HOMELITE reserves the right to change or improve the design of
any HOMELITE product without assuming any obligation to
modify any product previously manufactured.

ALL IMPLIED WARRANTIES ARE LIMITED IN DURATION TO
THE STATED WARRANTY PERIOD. ACCORDINGLY, ANY
SUCH IMPLIED WARRANTIES INCLUDING
MERCHANTABILITY, FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE,
OR OTHERWISE, ARE DISCLAIMED IN THEIR ENTIRETY
AFTER THE EXPIRATION OF THE APPROPRIATE TWO-YEAR,
ONE-YEAR, OR NINETY DAY WARRANTY PERIOD.
HOMELITE’S OBLIGATION UNDER THIS WARRANTY IS
STRICTLY AND EXCLUSIVELY LIMITED TO THE REPAIR OR
REPLACEMENT OF DEFECTIVE PARTS AND HOMELITE DOES
NOT ASSUME OR AUTHORIZE ANYONE TO ASSUME FOR
THEM ANY OTHER OBLIGATION. SOME STATES DO NOT
ALLOW LIMITATIONS ON HOW LONG AN IMPLIED
WARRANTY LASTS, SO THE ABOVE LIMITATION MAY NOT
APPLY TO YOU. HOMELITE ASSUMES NO RESPONSIBILITY
FOR INCIDENTAL, CONSEQUENTIAL OR OTHER DAMAGES
INCLUDING, BUT NO LIMITED TO EXPENSE OF RETURNING
THE HOMELITE PRODUCT TO AN AUTHORIZED SERVICE
DEALER AND EXPENSE OF DELIVERING IT BACK TO THE
OWNER, MECHANIC’S TRAVEL TIME, TELEPHONE OR
TELEGRAM CHARGES, RENTAL OF A LIKE PRODUCT
DURING THE TIME WARRANTY SERVICE IS BEING
PERFORMED, TRAVEL, LOSS OR DAMAGE TO PERSONAL
PROPERLY, LOSS OF REVENUE, LOSS OF USE OF THE
PRODUCT, LOSS OF TIME, OR INCONVENIENCE, SOME
STATES DO NOT ALLOW THE EXCLUSION OR LIMITATION OF
INCIDENTAL OR CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES, SO THE
ABOVE LIMITATION OR EXCLUSION MAY NOT APPLY TO
YOU.

This warranty gives you specific legal rights, any you may also
have other rights which vary from state to state.

This warranty applies to all HOMELITE products manufactured by
HOMELITE and sold in the United States and Canada.

To locate your nearest service dealer, dial 1-800-242-4672 or log
on to our website at www.homelite.com.

CALIFORNIA EMISSION CONTROL LIMITED WARRANTY STATEMENT

YOUR WARRANTY RIGHTS AND OBLIGATIONS

HOMELITE CONSUMER PRODUCTS, INC.

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), the California Air Resources Board (CARB), and Homelite Consumer Products, Inc. are pleased
to explain the Emission Control System Warranty on your utility/lawn/garden equipment engine. The California, new 1995 and later utility/lawn/
garden equipment engines must be designed, built and equipped to meet the state's stringent anti-smog standards. In other states, new 1997 and
later model year utility/lawn/garden equipment engines must be designed, built and equipped, at the time of sale, to meet the U.S. EPA regulations
for small non-road engines. The equipment engine must be free from defects in material and workmanship which cause it to fail to conform with U.S.
EPA standards for the first two years of engine use from the date of sale to the ultimate purchaser. Homelite Consumer Products, Inc., must
warranty the emission control system on your utility/lawn/garden equipment engine for the period of time listed above provided there has been no
abuse, neglect, or improper maintenance of your utility/lawn/garden equipment engine.

Your emission control system may include parts such as the carburetor or fuel injection system, the ignition system, the catalytic converter. Also
included may be hoses, belts, and connectors and other emission-related assemblies.

Where a warrantable condition exists, Homelite Consumer Products, Inc., will repair your utility/lawn/garden equipment engine at no cost to you,
including diagnosis (if the diagnostic work is performed at an authorized dealer), parts, and labor.

Page 35

OPERATOR'S MANUAL

UT10927D / 16 in. (406 mm) 38cc Chain Saw
UT10946D / 18 in. (457 mm) 45cc Chain Saw
UT10942D / 20 in. (508 mm) 45cc Chain Saw

WARNING:

The engine exhaust from this product contains chemicals known to the State of
California to cause cancer, birth defects or other reproductive harm.
CALIFORNIA PROPOSITION 65

For product information, technical help, dealer locations or parts ordering information
visit our website at: www.homelite.com.

HOMELITE CONSUMER PRODUCTS, INC.

1428 Pearman Dairy Road, Anderson, SC 29625

Post Office Box 1207, Anderson, SC 29622

Phone 1-800-chainsaw (1-800-242-4672)

www.homelite.com

983000-411