Kobalt KCS 120-07 User Manual

ITEM #0796790

40 V LITHIUM-ION CORDLESS 12 IN. CHAIN SAW

ATTACH YOUR RECEIPT HERE

Serial Number Purchase Date

Questions, problems, missing parts? Before returning to your retailer, call our customer

service department at 1-888-3KOBALT (1-888-356-2258) 8 a.m. - 8 p.m., EST,
Monday - Friday.

AB16407

MODEL #KCS 120-07

Español p. 36

1

TABLE OF CONTENTS

.......... 2

Package Contents.............................................................................................................. ........ 3

Symbols........................................................................................................................ 4 ..............

Safety Informat ion...................................................................................................................... 6

Preparation...............................................................................................................................11

Operating Instructions.............................................................................................................. 12

Care and Maintenance............................................................................................................. 22

Warranty................................................................................................................................... 34

Replacement Parts List............................................................................................................ 35

43 ........................................................................................................................gnitoohselbuorT

PRODUCT SPECIFICATIONS

Bar length
Chain pitch
Chain gauge
Chain type
Guide bar type
Chain oil tank capacity
Unit weight (with battery)

SPECIFICATIONS

12 in. (30.5 cm)
3/8 in. (9.5 mm)

0.05 in. (1.27 mm)
91PJ045X
120SDEA041

6.8 oz (200 ml)

8.8 lbs.

2

PACKAGE CONTENTS

C

A

D

PART DESCRIPTION QUANTITY

A Chain saw 1

B Scabbard 1
C Battery 1
D Charger 1

B

3

SYMBOLS

Some of the following symbols may be used on this product. Please study them and learn their
meaning. Proper interpretation of these symbols will allow you to operate the product better and safer.

SYMBOLS DESIGNATION EXPLANATION

V Volts Voltage
A Amperes Current

Hz Hertz Frequency (cycles per second)

W Watts Power

hrs Hours Time

n

o

No Load Speed Rational speed, at no load

/ min

Per Minute

Revolutions, strokes, surface speed, orbits etc., per
minute.

Lithium-Ion Battery Recycling

Designates that this tool is in compliance with
Lithium-Ion battery recycling program requirements.

Direct Current Type or a characteristic of current

Safety Alert Symbol Precautions that involve your safety.

Read the Operator’s Manual

Eye and Hearing Protection

To reduce the risk of injury, user must read and
understand operator’s manual before using this product.

Wear eye protection that is marked to comply with
ANSI Z87.1 as well as hearing protection when operating
this product.

Gloves

Safety Footwear

Kickback

Wear non-slip, heavy-duty protective gloves when
handling the chain saw and the blade.

Wear non-slip safety footwear when using this
equipment.

Tip contact can cause the guide bar to move suddenly
upward and backward, which can cause serious injury.

Operate With Two Hands Hold and operate the saw properly with both hands.

One Handed Do not operate the saw using only one hand.

Bar Nose Contact Avoid bar nose contact.

Keep Bystanders Away Keep all bystanders at least 50 ft. (15 m) away.

Wet Conditions Alert Do not expose to rain.

4

SAFETY INFORMATION

IMPORTANT

Read and understand all instructions. Failure to follow all instructions listed below may result in

Save all warnings and instructions for future reference.
The term “power tool” in all of the warnings listed below refers to your mains-operated
(corded) power tool or battery-operated (cordless) power tool.

1. WORK AREA SAFETY

• Keep work area clean and well lit. Cluttered or dark areas invite accidents.

• Do not operate power tools in explosive atmospheres, such as in the presence of flammable
liquids,

gases or dust. Power tools create sparks which may ignite the dust or fumes.

• Keep children and bystanders away while operating a power too l. Distractions can cause you to

control.

lose

2. ELECTRICAL SAFETY

• Avoid body contact with earthed or grounded surfaces,

refrigerators.

There is an increased risk of electric shock if your body is earthed or grounded.

such as pipes, radiators, ranges and

• Do not expose power tools to rain or wet conditions. Water entering a power tool will increase the
of electric shock.

risk

• If operating a power tool in a damp location is unavoidable, use a residual current device (RCD)

protected supply. Use of an RCD reduces the risk of electric shock.

Use only 40 V Kobalt batteries (KB 240-06, KB 440-06, KB 245-06, KB 540-06).

•

3. PERSONAL SAFETY

• Stay alert , watch what you are doing and use common sense when operating a power tool.
Do not use a chain saw while you are tired or under the influence of drugs, alcohol or medication. A
moment of inattention while operating chain saws may result in serious personal injury.

• Use personal protective equipment. Always wear eye protection. Safety equipment such as dust

mask,

non-skid safety shoes, hard hat, or hearing protection used for appropriate conditions will reduce

personal injuries.

• 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 tool. Carrying power tools with your finger on
the switch or plugging in power tools that have the switch on invites accidents.

• Remove any adjusting key or wrenches before turning the power tool on. A wrench or a key left

attached to a rotating part of the chain saw may result in personal injury.

• Do not overreach. Keep proper footing and balance at all times. This enables better control of the

chain saw in unexpected situations.

• Dress properly. Do not wear loose clothing or jewelry. Keep your hair, clothing and gloves away

from moving parts. Loose clothes, jewelry or long hair can be caught in moving parts.

• If devices are provided for the connection of dust extraction and collection facilities, ensure

these

are connected and properly used. Use of these devices can reduce dust-related hazards.

5

SAFETY INFORMATION

4. POWER TOOL USE AND CARE

• Do not force the power tool. Use the correct chain saw for your application. The correct chain saw
do the job better and safer at the rate for which it was designed.

will

• Do not use the chain saw if the switch does not tur n it on and off. Any chain saw that cannot be

controlled with the switch is dangerous and must be repaired.

• Disconnect the battery pack from the power tool before making any adjustments, changing

accessories, or storing power tools. Such preventive safety me asures reduce the risk of starting the

power tool accidentally.

• Store idle chain saws out of the reach of children and do not allow persons unfamiliar with the chain saw

or these instructions to operate the chain saw. Chain saws are dangerous in the hands of untrained users.

• Maintain chain saws . Check for misalignment or bind ing of moving parts, breakage of parts and any
that may affect the chain saw’s operation. If dama ged, have the chain saw

other.
repaired

Condition

before use.

Many accidents are caused by poorly maintained chain saws.

• Keep cutting tools sharp and clean. Properly maintained cutting tools with sharp cutting edges are
likely to bind and are easier to control.

less

• Use the chain saw, accessories and tool bits, etc., in accordance with these instructions, taking

into account the working conditions and the work to be performed. Use of the chain saw for
operations different from those intended could result in a hazardous situation.

5. BATTERY TOOL USE AND CARE

• 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 fire when used with another battery pack.

• Use power tools only with specifically designated battery packs. Use of any other battery packs

create a risk of injury and fire.

may

• 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

another. Shorting the battery terminals together may cause bu rns or a fire.

to

• 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.

6. SERVICE

Have your power tool serviced by a qualified repair person using only identical replacement parts.
This will ensure that the safety of the power tool is maintained.

7. CHAIN SAW SAFETY WARNINGS

• Keep all parts of the body away from the saw chain when the chain saw is operating. Before

you start the chain saw, make sure the saw chain is not contacting anything. A moment of inattention
while operating chain saws may cause entanglement of your clothing or body with the saw chain.

• Always hold the chain saw with your right hand on the rear handle and your left hand on the

front handle. Holding the chain saw with a reversed hand configuration increases the risk of personal
injury and should never be done.

• Wear safety glasses and hearing protection. Adequate protective equipment for head,hands,legs

and feet is recommended. Adequate protective clothing will reduce personal injury by flying debris or
accidental contact with the saw chain.

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

personal injury.

6

SAFETY INFORMATION

• Always keep proper footing and operate the chain saw only when standing on a fixed, secure
and

level surface ch as ladders may cause a loss of balance or us secafrus elbatsnu ro yreppilS .

control

of the chain saw.

• When cutting a limb that is under tension, be alert for spring back. When the tension in the

wood fibres is released, the spring loaded limb may strike the operator and/or throw the chain saw
out of control.

• Use extreme caution when cutting brush and saplings. The slender material may catch the

saw chain and be whipped toward you or pull you off balance.

• Cut wood only. Do not use chain saw for a purpose not intended. For example: do not use

chain saw for cutting plastic, masonry or non-wood building materials. Use of the chain saw for
operations different than intended could result in a hazardous situation.

• Carry the chain saw by the front handle with the chain saw switched off and away from your body.

When transporting or storing the chain saw always fit the guide bar cover. Proper handling of the
chain saw will reduce the likelihood of accidental contact with the moving saw chain.

• Follow instructions for lubricating, chain tensioning and changing accessories. An improperly

tensioned or lubricated chain may either break or increase the chance for kickback.

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

cause loss of control.

• Hold the power tool by insulated gripping surfaces only, because the cutter blade may contact

hidden wiring or its own cord. Cutter blades contacting a “live” wire may make exposed metal parts

of the power tool “live” and could give the operator an electric shock.

WARNING Proposition 65

Some dust created by power sanding, sawing, grinding, drilling, and other construction activities
contain chemicals known to cause cancer, birth defects or other reproductive harm. Some examples
of these chemicals are:

• Lead from lead-based paints,

• Crystalline silica from bricks and cement and other masonry products, and

• Arsenic and chromium from chemically-treated lumber.

Your risk from these exposures varies, depending on how often you do this type of work. To reduce
your exposure to these chemicals, work in a well-ventilated area, and work with approved safety

Kickback

WARNING

Kickback may occur when the moving chain contacts an object at the upper portion of the tip

of the

the upper
chain for an

back toward

can be driven
control which can
the sa
accident or injur

guide bar or when the wood closes in and pinches the saw chain in the cut. Contact at

portion of the tip of the guide bar can cause the chain to dig into the object and stop the

instant. The result is a lightning fast reverse reaction which kicks the guide bar up and

the operator. If the saw chain is pinched along the top of the guide bar, the guide bar

rapidly back toward the operator

. Either of these reactions can cause loss of saw

result in serious injury. Do not rely exclusively upon the safety devices built into

w. As a chain

saw user, you should take several steps to keep your cutting jobs free from

y

.

7

SAFETY INFORMATION

Maintain a firm grip, with thumbs and fingers encircling
the chain saw handles, with both hands on the saw
and positioning your body and arms to allow you to
resist kickback forces. Kickback forces can be contrll ed

by the operator, if proper precautions are taken.
Do not let go of the chain saw.

Do not overreach and do not cut above shoulder
height. This helps prevent unintended tip contact and

enables better control of the chain saw in unexpected
situations.

The following precautions should be followed to minimize
kickback:

•

•

•

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.

Hold the power tool 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 chain saw “live” and cou ld give
the operator an electric shock.

8

SAFETY INFORMATION

• Push and Pull - This 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 PUSH when cutting along the top
edge.

Understanding your chain saw safety devices
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

per ANSI B175.1. Low kickback/skip tooth saw chain is a
chain that has met the kickback performance
requirements of ANSI B175.1 - 1991. (American National
Standard for Power Tools - Gasoline-Powered Chain
Saws-Safety Requirements) when tested on the
representative sample of chain saws below 3.8 c.i.d.

sharpened during their useful life, they lose some of the
low kickback qualities and extra caution should be used.

PREPARATION

Before beginning to operate this product, make sure all parts are present. Compare parts with
package contents list. If any part is missing or damaged, do not attempt to operate the product.

9

SAFETY INFORMATION

UNPACKING

This product has been shipped completely assembled.

• Carefully remove the product and any accessories from the box. Make sure that all items listed in
the package contents section are included.

• Inspect the product carefully to make sure no breakage or damage occurred during shipping.

• Do not discard the packing material until you have carefully inspected and satisfactorily operated

the product.

• If any parts are damaged or missing, please call 1-888-3KOBALT (1-888-356-2258) for assistance.

WARNING

• If any parts are damaged or missing, do not operate this product until the parts are replaced.

Failure to heed this warning could result in serious personal injury.

• Do not attempt to modify this product or create accessories not recommended for use with this

leading to possible serious personal injury.

SYMBOLS

Save these Instructions

The following signal words and meanings are intended to explain the levels of risk associated with
this product.

SYMBOL SIGNAL MEANING

DANGER

WARNING

CAUTION

CAUTION

Indicates an imminently hazardous situation, which, if not avoided, will
result in death or serious injury.

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

Indicates a potentially hazardous situation, which, if not avoided, may
result in minor or moderate injury.

(Without Safety Alert Symbol) Indicates a situation that may result in
property damage.

WARNING

• To avoid serious personal injury, do not attempt to use this product until you have read this
Owner’s Manual thoroughly and understand it completely. If you do not understand the warnings and
instructions in this Owner’s Manual, do not use this product. Call 1-888-356-2258 for assistance.

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 power tool operation, always wear
safety goggles or safety glasses with side shields and, when needed, a full face shield. We
recommend a wide vision safety mask for use over eyeglasses or standard safety glasses with
side shields. Always use eye protection which is marked to comply with ANSI Z87.1.

10

KNOW YOUR CHAIN SAW

Read this operator’s manual and safety rules before operating your chain saw. Compare the
illustration below to your chain saw in order to familiarize yourself with the location of various controls
and adjustments. Save this manual for future reference.

G

I

M

H

N

E

J

L

K

F

PART DESCRIPTION

E Safety lock
F Trigger
G Front handle
H Low kickback chain

I Guard

J Guide bar

K Chain tension knob

L Chain cover lock knob
M Battery release button
N Oil cap

11

OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS

WARNING

• If any parts are damaged or missing, do not operate this product until the parts are replaced.
Failure to heed this warning could result in serious personal injury.

• Do not attempt to modify this product or create accessories not recommended for use with this

leading to possible serious personal injury.

• Do not allow familiarity with this product to make you careless. Remember that a careless fraction

• Always wear safety goggles or safety glasses with side shields when operating power tools.

Failure to do so could result in objects being thrown into your eyes, resulting in possible serious
injury.

• Do not use any attachments or accessories not recommended by the manufacturer of this product.
The use of attachments or accessories not recommended can result in serious personal injury.

Adding bar and chain lubricant

Use a bar and chain lubricant (not included) with this

product. It is designed for chains and chain oilers,
and is formulated to perform over a wide temperature
range with no dilution required.

Note: Chain saw comes from the factory with no bar

N

and chain oil added.

The level should also be checked after every 20

• Remove oil cap (N).

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

• Wipe off excess oil and replace cap.

•

Oil indicator

indicator is below the MIN. line.

• Repeat as needed.

Note:

• Do not use dirty, used or otherwise contaminated oils. Damage may occur to the bar or chain.

• It is normal for oil to seep from the saw when not in use. To prevent seepage, empty the oil tank
after each use then run for one minute. When storing the unit for a long period of time (three
months or longer) be sure the chain is lightly lubricated; this will prevent rust on the chain and bar
sprocket.

IMPORTANT

To preserve natural resources, please recycle or dispose of oil properly. Consult your local waste
authority for information regarding available recycling and/disposal options.

12

OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS

Battery

IMPORTANT

place the battery in the battery charger and charge it fully. Be sure to read all safety precautions
and follow the instructions in the battery and charger manuals. When storing the chain saw for a
prolonged period of time, remove the battery. When the chain saw is going to be used again, charge
the battery for at least a full charging period. The battery has no memory effect.

To install the battery:

1. Align the battery (C) with the battery opening.

2. Insert the battery into the battery opening until the
battery release button (M) locks into place.

3. Push down on the battery until it locks into place. You
should hear a “click” once it is installed.

C

M

To remove the battery:

1. Press the battery release button (M) on the chain saw.
This will cause the battery to raise out of the tool

slightly.

2.
the handle.

WARNING

• Replace the battery or the charger immediately if the battery case or charger cord is damaged.

• Verify that the trigger is in the OFF position before inserting or removing the battery.

• Verify that the battery is removed before inspecting,

adjusting, or performing maintenance on any part of the chain saw.

• Read, understand, and follow the instructions contained in the charger manual.

IMPORTANT

This Lithium-ion battery is equipped with an internal circuit breaker which will automatically shut off
the power to the tool and then reset itself once cooled. Follow these steps if an overload occurs while
under heavy use:

1. Release the trigger and restart tool by depressing the trigger.

2. The battery may need to be removed for approximately 1 minute, allowed to cool and then
reinstalled for use.

13

OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS

Starting and stopping the chain saw

WARNING

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

A. To start the chain saw:

• Make sure chain tension is at desired setting. Refer to
adjusting the chain tension in the Care and
Maintenance section of this manual.

• Make sure the chain cover lock knob is tight to the

E

chain cover.

• Make sure no objects or obstructions are in the
immediate vicinity which could come in contact with
the bar and chain.

• Fit the battery into the chain saw.

• Press in the safety lock (E). This makes the trigger

(F) operational.

• Press and hold the trigger (F) and keep it

F

pressed for continued operation.

B. To stop the chain saw:

• Release the trigger (F).

Upon release of the trigger, the safety lock will be automatically reset to the lock position.

Note: It is normal for the chain to coast to a stop once the trigger is released.

Preparing for cutting
A. Proper grip on handles

See General Safety Rules for appropriate safety equipment.

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

•

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.

• Maintain a proper grip on the saw whenever the motor

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

dangerous because a slight kick of the saw can cause
loss of control.

Proper hand
grip position

Chain line

Proper grip

Improper grip

14

OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS

WARNING

• DO NOT operate the trigger switch 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.

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

Proper cutting stance

• 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.

Thumb on

underside of

Handle Bar

Chain Line

Straight Arm

• Keep your thumb on underside of front handle.

Basic operating/cutting procedures

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

• Take the proper stance in front of the wood.

• Press the safety lock and squeeze the trigger switch

then release the safety lock and let the
chain accelerate to full speed before entering the cut.

• Begin cutting with the saw against the log.

• Keep the unit running the entire time you are cutting, maintain a steady speed.

• Allow the chain to cut for you; exert only light downward pressure. Forcing the cut could result

in damage to the bar, chain, or motor.

• Release the trigger switch as soon as the cut is completed, allowing the chain to stop. If you
run the saw without a cutting load, unnecessary wear can occur to the chain, bar, and unit.

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

Work area precautions

• Cut only wood or materials made from wood; no sheet
metal, no plastics, no masonry, no nonwood building
materials.

• Never allow children to operate the 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
at least twice the height of the largest trees in the
felling area. During bucking operations, keep a
minimum distance of 15 ft. (4.6 m) between workers.

• Always cut with both feet on solid ground to prevent
being pulled off balance.

•

• 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.

15

OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS

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.

Removing buttress roots

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

loose section from the work area. Follow the correct tree
felling procedure as stated in Proper Procedure For Tree
Felling after you have removed the large buttress roots.

Proper procedure for tree felling

• Felling a tree — 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 the tree does make contact with any utility

PLANNED LINE
OF FALL

Vertical Cut

Planned
Line of
fall

90°

Loose
section

Horizontal
Cut

135°

45°

45°

135°

Path of
safe
retreat

90°

immediately.

• Operator should keep on the uphill side of terrain as
the tree is likely to roll or slide after it is felled.

• Pick your escape route (or routes in case the intended
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.

16

135° FROM
PLANNED
LINE
OF FALL

PATH OF
SAFE
RETREAT

OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS

• Consider the force and direction of the wind, the lean
and balance of the tree, and the location of large

tree will fall. Do not try to fell a tree along a line
different from its natural line of fall.

• Remove dirt, stones, loose bark, nails, staples, and
wire from the tree where felling cuts are to be made.

• retemaid eht 3/1 tuoba hcton a tuC .tucrednU dehctoN
of the trunk on 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.

• Felling Backcut. As the felling cut gets close to the
hinge, the tree should begin to fall. If there is any
chance the tree may not fall in the desired direction or
it may rock back and bind the saw chain, stop cutting
before the felling cut is complete and use wedges of
wood, plastic or aluminum to open the cut and drop
the tree along its desired line of fall. Make the backcut
level and horizontal, and at a minimum of 2 in. (5 cm)
above the horizontal cut of the notch.

2 in. (5 cm) OR 1/10 DIA

HINGE

Notch­Approx.
1/3
Diameter
of trunk

Back cut

2” (5cm)

Back cut

Hinge

Note: Never cut through to the notch. Always leave a
band of wood between the notch and back cut
(approximately 2 in. (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 shoot
back of the tree off the stump.

• si ti erofeb tuc kcab eht pots ,seert retemaid egral nO
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.

• 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.

Wedge

17

OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS

Bucking

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

• Always make sure your footing is secure and your
weight is distributed evenly on both feet.

• 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 as this can cause kickback. Refer to Kickback
earlier in this manual.

• When bucking on a slope, always stand on the uphill
side of the log. To maintain complete control of the
chain saw when cutting through the log, release the
cutting pressure near the end of the cut without
relaxing your grip on the chain saw handles. Do not
let the chain contact the ground. After completing the
cut, wait for the saw chain to stop before you move the
chain saw. Always stop the motor before moving from
tree to tree.

Bucking with a wedge

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.

Bucking logs under stress

When the log is supported on one end, cut 1/3 the

supported on both ends, cut 1/3 of the diameter from the

LOG SUPPORTED AT ONE END

LOAD

FINISHING CUT

1ST CUT 1/3 DIA

LOG SUPPORTED AT BOTH ENDS

LOAD

1ST CUT 1/3 DIA

FINISHING CUT

18

OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS

Overbucking

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

Begin on the under side of the log with the top of the saw
against the log; exert light pressure upward. During under
bucking, the saw will tend to push back at you. Be

Avoid cutting earth
overbucking

maintain control.

Limbing

Limbing is removing branches from a fallen tree.

• Work slowly, keeping both hands on the chain saw

secure and your weight is distributed evenly on both
feet.

• peek ot eert eht rednu sbmil troppus regral eht evaeL
the tree off the ground while cutting.

• tuc eht evomeR .emit a ta eno tuc eb dluohs sbmiL
limbs from the work area often to help.

• Keep the work area clean and safe.

• mottob eht morf tuc eb dluohs noisnet rednu sehcnarB

up to avoid binding the chain saw.

• elihw was niahc eht dna uoy neewteb eert eht peeK
limbing. Cut from the side of the tree opposite the
branch you are cutting.

Push
underbucking

LOAD

Second

First Cut
1/3 Diameter

Finishing
Cut

cut

19

OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS

Pruning

Pruning is trimming limbs from a live tree.

• Work slowly, keeping both hands on the chain saw

secure and your weight is distributed evenly on both
feet.

• 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

• When pruning trees it is important not to make the

until you

CUT LIMBS ONE AT A TIME AND

LEAVE SUPPORT LIMBS

UNDER TREE UNTIL LOG IS CUT

have cut off the limb further out to reduce the weight.
This prevents stripping the bark from the main
member.

•

• Your second cut should overbuck to drop the branch

off.

•

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.

When bucking on a slope always stand on the uphill side
of the log. when cutting through to maintain

complete

Bucking a log

control release the cutting pressure near the end of the cut
without relaxing your grip on the chain saw handle. Don’t let
the chain contact the ground. After completing the cut wait
for the saw chain to stop before you move the chain saw. .
Always stop the motor before moving from tree to tree.

Stand on uphill side when
cutting because log may roll

20

OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS

Cutting springpoles

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.

SPRINGPOLE

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.

21

CARE AND MAINTENANCE

WARNING

• When servicing, use only identical replacement parts. Use of any other parts may create a hazard
or cause product damage.

• Always wear safety goggles or safety glasses with side shields during power tool operation or
when blowing dust. If the operation is dusty, also wear a dust mask.

General maintenance

Avoid using solvents when cleaning plastic parts. Most plastics are susceptible to damage from
various types of commercial solvents and may be damaged by their use. Use clean cloths to remove

•

come in contact with plastic parts. Chemicals can damage, weaken, or destroy plastic, which may
result in serious personal injury.

Lubrication

•

for the life of the unit under normal operating conditions. Therefore, no further lubrication is re­quired.

Replacing the guide bar and chain

DANGER

Never start the motor before installing the guide bar, chain, chain cover, and chain cover lock knob.

injury.

WARNING

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

• Before performing any maintenance, make sure the battery is removed. Failure to heed this warn-

ing could result in serious personal injury.

CAUTION

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 to avoid possible serious lacerations.

Note:

bar and chain combinations section later in this manual.

22

CARE AND MAINTENANCE

Chain & Bar Assembly

During use, the chain will stretch and become dull. Debris and saw dust can also collect underneath
the bar cover. Use the following steps to maintain your chain saw and chain.

WARNING

Before performing any maintenance, make sure the battery is removed from the chain
saw. Failure to heed this warning could result in serious personal injury.

1. T

o remove the side cover, loosen the lock knob one

full turn counterclockwise.

2. Loosen the chain tension knob 2 or 3 turns.

Lock Knob

3. Remove the lock knob and remove the side cover.

Chain Tension Knob

23

CARE AND MAINTENANCE

4. The bar and chain can now be removed by lifting it

away from the main body of the saw and releasing the
chain from the sprocket.

5. The chain saw can now be cleaned with a brush

and/or rag to remove sawdust and oil.

Sprocket

6. To replace the bar and chain, loop the chain over the

sprocket and place the bar against the bar stud.

24

Sprocket

Bar Stud

CARE AND MAINTENANCE

7. Ensure that the chain tensioning pin is located in the

tensioning hole on the chain bar.

8. Ensure the rubber block and chain bar are free of

oil, as this helps to keep tension on the chain.

Chain Tensioning Pin

9. Replace the side cover and lock knob, but do not

fully tighten.

25

CARE AND MAINTENANCE

10.Turn the chain tension knob clockwise to tighten the

chain.

11.Turn clockwise until there is enough play that the

chain can be pulled away from the bar, but not so
much that the runners can be pulled out of the bar.

Chain Tension Knob

12. Once you have the correct tension, fully tighten the

lock knob.

Note: Chains stretch with use. Check tension often.

Never tension a warm chain before storing, as chains
shrink when cool. This can damage chain, bar and
saw.

Lock Knob

26

CARE AND MAINTENANCE

To change the bar and chain:

1. Remove the battery from the chain saw.

2. Rotate the chain cover lock knob counterclockwise

and remove the chain cover by following step 1 through step 3 above.

3. Remove the bar and chain from the mounting surface by following step 4 above.

4. Remove the old chain from the bar.

5. Lay out the new 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

Cutters Chain Rotation

over.

6. Place the chain drive links into the bar groove.

Note: Make certain of direction of the chain.

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

the bar.

8. Hold the chain in position on the bar and place the

loop around the sprocket.

9.

the bar studs are in the long slot of the bar.

Note: When placing the bar on the bar studs, ensure

that the adjusting pin is in the chain tension pin hole.

10. Replace the chain cover.

Chain Drive Links

Bar
Groove

Chain Drive Links

27

CARE AND MAINTENANCE

11. Remove all slack from the chain by turning the chain

tensioning knob clockwise until the chain seats snugly
against the bar with the drive links in the bar groove.

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

13. Release the tip of the guide bar and turn the chain ten-

sioning knob 1/2 turn clockwise. Repeat this process
until sags does not exist.

14. Hold the tip of the guide bar up and tighten the chain

cover lock knob. 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.

Note: If the chain is too tight, it will not rotate. Loosen
the chain cover lock knob slightly and turn the chain
tensioning knob 1/4 turn counterclockwise. Lift the tip of
the guide bar up and retighten the chain cover lock knob.
Ensure that the chain will rotate without binding.

Adjusting the chain tension

WARNING

Never touch or adjust the chain while the motor is
running. The chain saw is very sharp. Always wear
protective gloves when performing maintenance on
chain.

28

CARE AND MAINTENANCE

• Rotate the chain cover lock knob clockwise to secure.

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 1/16 in.
(1.3 mm) out of the bar groove.

Note: New chains tend 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

Chain maintenance

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:

•

risk of severe kickback

• Raker (depth gauge) clearance.

• Too low increases the potential for kickback.

• Not low enough decreases cutting ability.

• If the cutter teeth hit hard objects such as nails or

stones, or are abraded by mud or sand on the wood,
have an authorized service center sharpen the chain.

1/16 in. (1.3 mm)

Raker (Depth Gauge) Clearance

1/32 in. (0.6 mm)

29

CARE AND MAINTENANCE

Note:

• Inspect the drive sprocket for wear or damage when replacing the chain. If signs of wear or dam-

age are present in the areas indicated, have the drive sprocket replaced by an authorized service
center.

• If you do not fully understand the correct procedure for sharpening the chain after reading the

instructions that follow, have the saw chain sharpened by an authorized service center or replace
with a recommended low-kickback chain.

Sharpening the cutters

to the same length, as fast cutting can be obtained only
when all cutters are uniform.

PARTS OF A CUTTER

CAUTION

Make sure the battery is removed from the chain saw
before you work on the saw.

WARNING

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

• Tension the chain prior to sharpening. Refer to

Adjusting The Chain Tension.

•

•

•

corner of the tooth.

•

•

cutters in one direction. Then move to the other side

Top Place

Rivet Hole

Heel

Gullet

Cutting Corner

Side Plate

Depth Gauge

Toe

•

30

CARE AND MAINTENANCE

CAUTION

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

WARNING

• Improper chain sharpening increases the potential of

kickback.

• Failure to replace or repair a damaged chain can

cause serious injury.

Top plate angle

•

angle.

• LESS THAN 30° – for cross cutting.

• MORE THAN 30° – feathered edge dulls quickly.

Cortadoras
derechas

TOP PLACE FILLING ANGLE

30°

SIDE PLATE FILLING ANGLE

80°

Cortadoras
izquierdas

LESS THAN 30° MORE THAN 30°

CORRECT INCORRECT

31

CARE AND MAINTENANCE

Side plate angle

• Correct 80° – Produced automatically if you use the

• Hook – “Grabs” and dulls quickly; increases the

• Backward Slope – Needs too much feed pressure;

causes excessive wear to the bar and chain. Results

too high.

Hook

Backward Slope

Incorrect

Raker (Depth Gauge) Clearance

1/32”

(0.6 mm)

Side plate angle

• Maintain the depth gauge at a clearance of 1/32 in.

(0.6 mm). Use a depth gauge tool for checking the
depth gauge clearances.

•

clearance.

Depth Gauge Jointer

32

CARE AND MAINTENANCE

•

all gauges uniformly. Use a 1/32 in. (0.6 mm) depth
gauge jointer. After lowering each depth gauge, restore
original shape by rounding the front. Be careful not to

•

•

adjusting depth gauges.

Maintaining the guide bar

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

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

Lubricate guide bars weekly with a sprocket at their tip.
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.

Restore
Original
shape by
Rounding the
front

Lubricating hole

33

TROUBLESHOOTING

If you still have questions or an unresolved issue after going through this troubleshooting guide, or
just want to speak to a Kobalt product expert, please call our customer service department at
1-888-3KOBALT (1-888-356-2258), 8 a.m. - 8 p.m., EST, Monday – Friday.

PROBLEM POSSIBLE CAUSE CORRECTIVE ACTION

Bar and chain
running hot and
smoking.

1. Check chain tension for
overtightened condition.

2. Chain oil tank empty.

1. Tension chain. Refer to Chain
Tension earlier in this manual.

2. Check oil tank.

Motor runs, but
chain is not
rotating.

Motor runs, chain

1. Chain tension too tight.

2. Check guide bar and chain
assembly.

3. Check guide bar and chain for
damage.

1. Dull chain.

1. Re-tension chain. Refer to
Chain Tension earlier in this
manual.

2. Refer to Replacing the Bar and
Chain earlier in this manual.

3. Inspect guide bar and chain for
damage.

1. Sharpen chain.

rotates but does
not cut.

2. Chain on backwards.

2. Reverse direction of chain.

WARRANTY

5-YEAR LIMITED WARRANTY

This 40 V Lithiuim-Ion Cordless 12 in. Chain saw is warranted to the original purchaser from the

This 40 V Lithiuim-Ion Cordless 12 in. Chain saw is warranted for the original user to be free from
defects in material and workmanship.
If you believe that the 40 V Lithiuim-Ion Cordless 12 in. Chain saw is defective at any time during the

to the place of purchase for a free replacement or refund, or call 1-888-3KOBALT (1-888-356-2258)
for warranty service.
This warranty is void if: defects in materials or workmanship or damages result from repairs or
alterations which have been made or attempted by others or the unauthorized use of nonconforming
parts; the damage is due to normal wear, damage is due to abuse (including overloading of the tool
beyond capacity), improper maintenance, neglect or accident; or the damage is due to the use of the
tool after partial failure or use with improper accessories or unauthorized repair or alteration.
This warranty excludes bar and chain.

to state.

34

REPLACEMENT PARTS LIST

For replacement parts, call our customer service department at 1-888-3KOBALT (1-888-356-2258),
8 a.m. - 8 p.m., EST, Monday - Friday.

A B C D

PART DESCRIPTION PART #

A Side cover 341101072A
B Tension knob 341081072
C Screw 32206590
D Tightening knob 34108420

Printed in China

35