RedMax GZ7000 User Manual

KEY T O SYMBOLS

Symbols on the mac hine:

ARNING! Chain saws can be dangerous! Careless or improper use can result in serious or fatal injury to the operator or others.

Please read the operator’s manual carefully and make sure you understand the instructions before using the machine.

Always wear:

• Approved protective helmet

• Approved hearing protection

• Protective goggles or a visor Both of the operator ′ s hands must

be used to operate the chain saw. Never operate a chain saw holding it with one hand only.

Contact of the guide bar tip with any object must be avoided.

WARNING! Kickback may occur when the nose or tip of the guide bar touches an object, and cause a lightning fast reverse reaction, kicking the guide bar up and towards the operator. May cause serious personal injury.

Decompression v alve: The valve is to

reduce the pressure in the cylinder and make starting easier. You should always use the decompression valve when starting the machine.

Symbols f or Canada model:

Recommended cutting equipment in this example:

- Bar length 20 inches

- Max. nose radius 11 Teeth

- Chain type Oregon 72LPX

Other approved bar and chain combinations in Operator’s Manual.

Symbols in the operator’ s manual:

Switch off the engine b y moving the stop switch to the STOP position before carrying out any checks or maintenance.

Ignition; choke: Set the choke control

in the choke position. This should automatically set the stop switch to the start position.

Always wear approved protective gloves.

Regular cleaning is required.

Visual check.

Protective goggles or a visor must be worn.

Refuelling.

Filling with oil and adjusting oil ﬂow.

Measured maximum kickback value with brake for the bar and chain combination on the label.

Measured maximum kickback value without triggering the brake, for the bar and chain combination on the label.

Other symbols/decals on the mac hine refer to special certiﬁcation requirements for certain markets.

– English

KEY T O SYMBOLS

ou will ﬁnd the following labels on your

chain saw:

USA:

Canada:

A III

The Emissions Compliance P eriod referred to on the Emission Compliance label indicates the number of operating hours for which the engine has been shown to meet Federal emissions requirements.

Maintenance, replacement, or repair of the emission control devices and system may be performed by any nonroad engine repair establishment or individual.

English

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Contents

KEY TO SYMBOLS

Symbols on the machine: ...................................... 2

Symbols for Canada model: .................................. 2

Symbols in the operator’s manual: ........................ 2

CONTENTS

Contents ............................................................... 4

WHA T IS WHAT?

What is what on the chain sa w? ........................... 5

AMERICAN ST ANDARD SAFETY PRECAUTIONS

Saf ety precautions for chain saw users ................ 6

GENERAL SAFETY PRECA UTIONS

Bef ore using a new chain saw .............................. 7

Important .............................................................. 7

Always use common sense .................................. 8

Personal protective equipment ............................. 8

Machine ′ s safety equipment ................................. 8

Cutting equipment ................................................. 11

ASSEMBL Y

Fitting the bar and chain ....................................... 16

FUEL HANDLING

Fuel ....................................................................... 17

Fueling .................................................................. 19

Fuel safety ............................................................ 19

ARTING AND STOPPING

Star ting and stopping ............................................ 20

ORKING TECHNIQUES

Bef ore use: ............................................................ 22

General working instructions ................................ 22

How to avoid kickback ........................................... 29

MAINTENANCE

Gener al ................................................................. 30

Carburetor adjustment .......................................... 30

Checking, maintaining and servicing chain saw

safety equipment ..................................................

Mufﬂer ................................................................... 33

Starter ................................................................... 33

Air ﬁlter .................................................................. 34

Spark plug ............................................................. 35

Lubricating the bar tip sprocket ............................. 35

Needle bearing lubrication .................................... 35

Adjustment of the oil pump ................................... 35

Cooling system ..................................................... 36

”Dust Free” centrifugal cleaning ............................ 36

Winter use ............................................................. 36

Maintenance schedule .......................................... 37

TECHNICAL D ATA

echnical data ....................................................... 38

Bar and chain combinations ................................. 39

LIMITED WARRANTY

Limited w arranty ................................................... 40

ARTS LIST .......................................................... 123

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WHA T IS WHA T?

What is what on the c hain saw?

Decompression valve 2 Starter handle 3 Adjuster screws carburetor 4 Stop switch (Ignition on/off switch.) 5 Rear handle 6 Choke control/Start throttle lock 7 Fuel tank 8 Starter 9 Chain oil tank 10 Throttle lockout 11 Cylinder cover 12 Front handle 13 Front hand guard 14 Mufﬂer

15 Bar tip sprocket 16 Chain 17 Bar 18 Bumper spike 19 Chain catcher 20 Chain tensioning screw 21 Oil pump adjustment screw 22 Clutch cover 23 Right hand guard 24 Throttle control 25 Operator’s manual 26 Combination wrench 27 Information and warning decal 28 Product and serial number plate

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AMERICAN ST AND ARD SAFETY PRECA UTIONS

Saf ety precautions for chain saw users

(ANSI B175.1-2000 Anne x C)

Kic kback safety precautions

ARNING! 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 towards the operator.

Pinching the saw chain along the top of the guide bar may push the guide bar rapidly back towards the operator.

Either of these reactions may cause you to lose control of the saw which could result in serious personal injury.

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

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

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

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

Cut at high engine speeds. Do not overreach or cut above shoulder height. Follow manufacturer’s sharpening and maintenance

instructions for the saw chain. Only use replacement bars and chains speciﬁed by the

manufacturer or the equivalent.

Other saf ety precautions

ARNING! 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 oper ate a chain saw when you are fatigued. Use safety footwear; snug-ﬁtting clothing, protective

gloves, and eye, hearing and head protection devices. Use caution when handling fuel. Move the chain saw at

least 10 feet (3 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.

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

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

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. 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 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. Do not operate a chain saw above shoulder height. All chain saw service, other than the items listed in the

operator’s/owner’s safety and maintenance instructions, 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 cause the ﬂywheel to burst.)

When transporting your chain saw, use the appropriate guide bar guard.

Note: This Annex is intended primarily for the consumer or occasional user.

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GENERAL SAFETY PRECA UTIONS

•

Bef ore using a new chain saw

Please read this manual carefully.

• Check that the cutting equipment is correctly ﬁtted and adjusted. See instructions under the heading Assembly.

• Refuel and start the chain saw. See the instructions under the headings Fuel Handling and Starting and Stopping.

• Do not use the chain saw until sufﬁcient chain oil has reached the chain. See instructions under the heading Lubricating cutting equipment.

• Long-term exposure to noise can result in permanent hearing impairment. So always use approved hearing protection.

ARNING! Under no circumstances may

the design of the machine be modiﬁed

without the permission of the manufacturer. Always use genuine accessories. Non-authorized modiﬁcations and/or accessories can result in serious personal injury or the death of the operator or others. Your warranty may not cover damage or liability caused by the use of nonauthorized accessories or replacement parts.

ARNING! A chain saw is a dangerous

tool if used carelessly or incorrectly and

can cause serious, even fatal injuries. It is very important that you read and understand the contents of this operator’s manual.

ARNING! The inside of the mufﬂer

contain chemicals that may be

carcinogenic. Avoid contact with these elements in the event of a damaged mufﬂer.

ARNING! Long term inhalation of the

engine’s exhaust fumes, chain oil mist

and dust from sawdust can represent a health risk.

ARNING! The ignition system of this

machine produces an electromagnetic

ﬁeld during operation. This ﬁeld may under some circumstances interfere with pacemakers. To reduce the risk of serious or fatal injury, we recommend persons with pacemakers to consult their physician and the pacemaker manufacturer before operating this machine.

ARNING! When using a chain saw, a

ﬁre extinguisher should be available.

ARNING! Keep handles dry, clean and

free of oil.

ARNING! Beware of carbon monoxide poisoning. Operate the chainsaw in well ventilated areas only.

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

Impor tant

IMPORTANT! The machine is only designed for cutting wood. You should only use the saw with the bar and chain

combinations we recommend in the chapter Technical data.

Never use the machine if you are fatigued, while under the inﬂuence of alcohol or drugs, medication or anything that could affect your vision, alertness, coordination or judgement.

Wear personal protective equipment. See instructions under the heading Personal protective equipment.

Do not modify this product or use it if it appears to have been modiﬁed by others.

Never use a machine that is faulty. Carry out the checks, maintenance and service instructions described in this manual. Some maintenance and service measures must be carried out by trained and qualiﬁed specialists. See instructions under the heading Maintenance.

Never use any accessories other than those recommended in this manual. See instructions under the headings Cutting equipment and Technical data.

CAUTION! Always wear protective glasses or a face visor to reduce the risk of injury from thrown objects. A chain saw is capable of throwing objects, such as wood chips, small pieces of wood, etc, at great force. This can result in serious injury, especially to the eyes.

WARNING! Running an engine in a conﬁned or badly ventilated area can result in death due to asphyxiation or carbon monoxide poisoning.

WARNING! Faulty cutting equipment or the wrong combination of bar and saw chain increases the risk of kickback! Only use the bar/saw chain combinations we recommend, and follow the ﬁling instructions. See instructions under the heading Technical data.

English

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GENERAL SAFETY PRECAUTIONS

Always use common sense

It is not possible to cover every conceivable situation you can face when using a chain saw. Always exercise care and use your common sense. Avoid all situations which you consider to be beyond your capability. If you still feel uncertain about operating procedures after reading these instructions, you should consult an expert before continuing. Do not hesitate to contact your dealer or us if you have any questions about the use of the chain saw. We will willingly be of service and provide you with advice as well as help you to use your chain saw both efﬁciently and safely. Attend a training course in chain saw usage if possible. Your dealer, forestry school or your library can provide information about which training materials and courses are available.

Work is constantly in progress to improve the design and technology - improvements that increase your safety and efﬁciency. Visit your dealer regularly to see whether you can beneﬁt from new features that have been introduced.

Personal protective equipment

WARNING! Most chain saw accidents happen when the chain touches the

operator. You must use approved personal protective equipment whenever you use the machine. Personal protective equipment cannot eliminate the risk of injury but it will reduce the degree of injury if an accident does happen. Ask your dealer for help in choosing the right equipment.

• Gloves with saw protection

• Trousers with saw protection

• Boots with saw protection, steel toe-cap and non-slip sole

• Always have a ﬁrst aid kit nearby.

• Fire Extinguisher and Shovel

Do not wear loose ﬁtting clothing, scarves, neckties, jewelry or any item that may become tangled in surrounding growth or the chain saw itself. Generally clothes should be close-ﬁtting without restricting your freedom of movement.

IMPORTANT! Sparks can come from the mufﬂer, the bar and chain or other sources. Always have ﬁre extinguishing tools available if you should need them. Help prevent forest ﬁres.

Machine′′′′s safety equipment

In this section the machine’s safety features and their function are explained. For inspection and maintenance see instructions under the heading Checking, maintaining and servicing chain saw safety equipment. See instructions under the heading, What is what?, to ﬁnd where these parts are located on your machine.

The life span of the machine can be reduced and the risk of accidents can increase if machine maintenance is not carried out correctly and if service and/or repairs are not carried out professionally. If you need further information please contact your nearest servicing dealer.

WARNING! Never use a machine with defective safety components. Safety equipment must be inspected and maintained. See instructions under the heading Checking, maintaining and servicing chain saw safety equipment. If your machine does not pass all the checks, take the saw to a servicing dealer for repair.

• Approved protective helmet

• Hearing protection

• Approved protective goggles and a visor. The approved protective goggles should comply with standard ANSI Z87.1.

8 – English

Chain brake and front hand guard

Your chain saw is equipped with a chain brake that is designed to stop the chain. Should kickback occur, the chain brake reduces the risk of accidents, but only you can prevent them.

GENERAL SAFETY PRECAUTIONS

Take care when using your saw and make sure the kickback zone of the bar never touches any object.

• The chain brake (A) can either be activated manually (by your left hand) or automatically by the inertia release mechanism.

• The brake is applied when the front hand guard (B) is pushed forwards.

• This movement activates a spring-loaded mechanism that tightens the brake band (C) around the engine drive system (D) (clutch drum).

• The front hand guard is not designed solely to activate the chain brake. Another important feature is that it reduces the risk of your left hand hitting the chain if you lose grip of the front handle.

• To release the chain brake pull the front hand guard backwards, towards the front handle.

• Kickback can be very sudden and violent. Most kickbacks are minor and do not always activate the chain brake. If this happens you should hold the chain saw ﬁrmly and not let go.

• The way the chain brake is activated, either manually or automatically by the inertia release mechanism, depends on the force of the kickback and the position of the chain saw in relation to the object that the kickback zone of the bar strikes.

If you get a violent kickback while the kickback zone of the bar is farthest away from you the chain brake is designed to be activated by the inertia in the kickback direction.

• The chain brake must be engaged when the chain saw is started to prevent the saw chain from rotating.

• Use the chain brake as a ”parking brake” when starting and when moving over short distances, to reduce the risk of moving chain accidentally hitting your leg or anyone or anything close by.

If the kickback is less violent or the kickback zone of the bar is closer to you the chain brake is designed to be activated manually by the movement of your left hand.

• In the felling position the left hand is in a position that makes manual activation of the chain brake impossible. With this type of grip, that is when the left hand is placed so that it cannot affect the movement

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GENERAL SAFETY PRECAUTIONS

of the front hand guard, the chain brake can only be activated by the inertia action.

original positions. This arrangement means that the throttle control is automatically locked at the idle setting.

Will my hand always activate the chain brake during a kickback?

No. It takes a certain force to move the hand guard forward. If your hand only lightly touches the front guard or slips over it, the force may not be enough to trigger the chain brake. You should also maintain a ﬁrm grip of the chain saw handles while working. If you do and experience a kickback, your hand may never leave the front handle and will not activate the chain brake, or the chain brake will only activate after the saw has swung around a considerable distance. In such instances, the chain brake might not have enough time to stop the saw chain before it touches you.

There are also certain positions in which your hand cannot reach the front hand guard to activate the chain brake; for example, when the saw chain is held in felling position.

Will my inertia activated chain brake always activate during kickback in the event of a kickback?

No. First your brake must be in working order. Testing the brake is simple, see instructions under the heading Checking, maintaining and servicing chain saw safety equipment. We recommend you do before you begin each work session. Second the kickback must be strong enough to activate the chain brake. If the chain brake is too sensitive it would activate all the time which would be a nuisance.

Will my chain brake always protect me from injury in the event of a kickback?

No. First, the chain brake must be in working order to provide the intended protection. Second, it must be activated during the kickback as described above to stop the saw chain. Third, the chain brake may be activated but if the bar is too close to you the brake might not have enough time to slow down and stop the chain before the chain saw hits you.

Only you and proper working technique can eliminate kickback and its danger.

Throttle lockout

The throttle lockout is designed to prevent accidental operation of the throttle control. When you press the lock (A) (i.e. when you grasp the handle) it releases the throttle control (B). When you release the handle the throttle control and the throttle lockout both move back to their

Chain catcher

The chain catcher is designed to catch the chain if it snaps or jumps off. This should not happen if the chain is properly tensioned (see instructions under the heading Assembly) and if the bar and chain are properly serviced and maintained (see instructions under the heading General working instructions).

Right hand guard

Apart from protecting your hand if the chain jumps or snaps, the right hand guard stops branches and twigs from interfering with your grip on the rear handle.

Vibration damping system

Your machine is equipped with a vibration damping system that is designed to reduce vibration and make operation easier.

The machine′s vibration damping system reduces the transfer of vibration between the engine unit/cutting equipment and the machine chain saw, including the cutting equipment, is insulated from the handles by vibration damping units.

′s handle unit. The body of the

10 – English

GENERAL SAFETY PRECAUTIONS

Cutting hardwoods (most broadleaf trees) creates more vibration than cutting softwoods (most conifers). Cutting with cutting equipment that is blunt or faulty (wrong type or badly sharpened) will increase the vibration level.

WARNING! Overexposure to vibration can lead to circulatory damage or nerve

damage in people who have impaired circulation. Contact your doctor if you experience symptoms of overexposure to vibration. Such symptoms include numbness, loss of feeling, tingling, pricking, pain, loss of strength, changes in skin colour or condition. These symptoms normally appear in the ﬁngers, hands or wrists. These symptoms may be increased in cold temperatures.

Stop switch

Use the stop switch to switch off the engine.

Mufﬂer

The mufﬂer is designed to keep noise levels to a minimum and to direct exhaust fumes away from the user.

WARNING! The exhaust fumes from the engine are hot and may contain sparks

which can start a ﬁre. Never start the machine indoors or near combustible material!

In areas with a hot, dry climate there is a high risk of ﬁres. These areas are sometimes subject to government rules requiring among other things the mufﬂer must be equipped with an approved type of spark arrestor screen.

WARNING! Never use a saw without a mufﬂer, or with a damaged mufﬂer. A damaged mufﬂer may substantially increase the noise level and the ﬁre hazard. Keep ﬁre ﬁghting equipment handy. If a spark arrestor screen is required in your area, never use the saw without or with a broken spark arrestor screen.

Spark arrestor mufﬂer

The spark arrestor mufﬂer controls the exhaust noise and prevents hot, glowing particles of carbon from leaving the mufﬂer. Make sure the spark arrestor screen is in good repair and properly seated in the mufﬂer.

Certain internal combustion engines operated on forest, brush and/or grass-covered areas in some states, are required to be equipped with a spark arrestor. This requirement also applies to all US Forest Service lands. In some of these areas, the spark arrestor system must be certiﬁed per USDA Forest Service Regulation SAE J335. Check with your local state authorities fo speciﬁc regulations in your area. Failure to follow these regulations is in violation of the law.

Cutting equipment

This section describes how to choose and maintain your cutting equipment in order to:

• Reduce the risk of kickback.

• Reduce the risk of the saw chain breaking or jumping off the bar.

• Obtain optimal cutting performance.

• Extend the life of cutting equipment.

• Avoid increasing vibration levels.

General rules

• Only use cutting equipment recommended by us! See instructions under the heading Technical data.

• Keep the chain’s cutting teeth properly

sharpened! Follow our instructions and use the recommended ﬁle gauge.

sharpened chain increases the risk of accidents.

A damaged or badly

CAUTION! During operation, the mufﬂer or catalytic mufﬂer and surrounding cover become hot. Never suspend the saw on a lanyard with the engine running.

Always wear proper protective clothing to protect your lower body from sharp saw chain and hot mufﬂer.

Always keep exhaust area clear of ﬂammable debris during transportation or when storing, otherwise serious property damage or personal injury may result.

• Maintain the correct depth gauge setting! Follow

our instructions and use the recommended depth gauge clearance.

the risk of kickback.

Too large a clearance increases

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GENERAL SAFETY PRECAUTIONS

• Keep the chain properly tensioned! If the chain is

slack it is more likely to jump off and lead to increased wear on the bar, chain and drive sprocket.

• Keep cutting equipment well lubricated and

properly maintained!

more likely to break and lead to increased wear on the bar, chain and drive sprocket.

Cutting equipment designed to reduce kickback

WARNING! Faulty cutting equipment or the wrong combination of bar and saw

chain increases the risk of kickback! Only use the bar/saw chain combinations we recommend, and follow the ﬁling instructions. See instructions under the heading Technical data.

The only way to avoid kickback is to make sure that the kickback zone of the bar never touches anything.

By using cutting equipment with ”built-in” kickback reduction and keeping the chain sharp and wellmaintained you can reduce the effects of kickback.

Bar

The smaller the tip radius the lower the chance of kickback.

Chain

A chain is made up of a number of links, which are available in standard and low-kickback versions.

IMPORTANT! No saw chain design eliminates the danger of kickback.

A poorly lubricated chain is

• Number of teeth on bar tip sprocket (T).

• Chain pitch (inches). The spacing between the drive links of the chain must match the spacing of the teeth on the bar tip sprocket and drive sprocket.

• Number of drive links. The number of drive links is determined by the length of the bar, the chain pitch and the number of teeth on the bar tip sprocket.

• Bar groove width (inches/mm). The groove in the bar must match the width of the chain drive links.

• Chain oil hole and hole for chain tensioner. The bar must be matched to the chain saw design.

Chain

• Chain pitch (inches)

• Drive link width (mm/inches)

WARNING! Any contact with a rotating saw chain can cause extremely serious

injuries.

Some terms that describe the bar and chain

To maintain the safety features of the cutting equipment, you should replace a worn or damaged bar or chain with a bar and chain combinations recommended by RedMax. See instructions under the heading Technical Data for a list of replacement bar and chain combinations we recommend.

Bar

• Length (inches/cm)

12 – English

• Number of drive links.

Maintenance of saw chain and guide bar

Chain

WARNING! Keep the chain’s cutting teeth properly sharpened! Follow our instructions and use the recommended ﬁle gauge. A damaged or badly sharpened chain increases the risk of accidents.

GENERAL SAFETY PRECAUTIONS

The cutting teeth need to be sharpened when:

• Sawdust becomes powder-like

• You need extra force to saw in

• The cut way does not go straight

• Vibration increases

• Fuel consumpion increases

Sharpening cutting teeth

Important Always wear gloves, when working with the chain, in order to protect your hands from injury.

Make sure the saw chain is held securely, before ﬁling!

• Place your ﬂle on the cutting teeth and push straight forward. Keep the ﬂle position as illustrated.

25°

1 5

WARNING! Departure from the sharpening instructions considerably

increases the risk of kickback.

Use a round ﬁle of proper size for your chain. Chain type 72 LPX

File size 7/32” /5,5mm

After every cutting tooth has been set, check the depth gauge and ﬂle it to the proper level as illustrated.

10°

Make sure every cutting tooth has the same lenght and egde angels as illustrated.

1 Cutting teeth lenght 2 Filing angle 3 Side plate angle 4 Top plate cutting angle

When the length of the cutting teeth has worn down to only 5/32 inch (4 mm) the chain must be replaced.

Bar

Reverse the bar occasionally to prevent partial wear. The bar rail should always be square. Check for wear of

the bar rail.

Tensioning the chain

WARNING! A slack chain may jump off the bar and cause serious or even fatal injury.

The more you use a chain the longer it becomes. It is therefore important to adjust the chain regularly to take up the slack.

Check the chain tension every time you refuel. NOTE! A new chain has a running-in period during which you should check the tension more frequently.

Tension the chain as tightly as possible, but not so tight that you cannot pull it round freely by hand.

1 Appropriate gauge checker 2 Make the shoulder round 3 Depth gauge standard

WARNING! The risk of kickback is increased if the depth gauge setting is

too large!

• Loosen the bar nuts that hold the clutch cover/chain brake. Use the combination spanner. Then tighten the bar nuts by hand as tight as you can.

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GENERAL SAFETY PRECAUTIONS

• Raise the tip of the bar and stretch the chain by tightening the chain tensioning screw using the combination spanner. Tighten the chain until it does not sag from the underside of the bar.

• Use the combination spanner to tighten the bar nuts while lifting the tip of the bar at the same time. Check that you can pull the chain round freely by hand and that it does not sag from the underside of the bar.

The position of the chain tensioning screw on our chain saws varies from model to model. See instructions under the heading What is what? to ﬁnd out where it is on your model.

Lubricating cutting equipment

WARNING! Poor lubrication of cutting equipment may cause the chain to snap,

which could lead to serious, even fatal injuries.

Chain oil

Chain oil must demonstrate good adhesion to the chain and also maintain its ﬂow characteristics regardless of whether it is warm summer or cold winter weather.

We recommend the use of our own oil for maximum chain life. If our own chain oil is not available, standard chain oil is recommended.

Never use waste oil! Using waste oil can be dangerous to you and damage the machine and environment.

However, this safety feature requires that you use the right sort of chain oil (if the oil is too thin it will run out before the fuel), and that you adjust the carburetor as recommended (a lean mixture may mean that the fuel lasts longer than the oil) and that you also use the recommended cutting equipment (a bar that is too long will use more chain oil).

Checking chain lubrication

• Check the chain lubrication each time you refuel. See instructions under the heading Maintenance of saw chain and guide bar.

Aim the tip of the bar at a light coloured surface about 20 cm (8 inches) away. After 1 minute running at 3/4 throttle you should see a distinct line of oil on the light surface.

If the chain lubrication is not working:

• Check that the oil hole in the bar is not obstructed. Clean if necessary.

• Check that the groove in the edge of the bar is clean. Clean if necessary.

IMPORTANT! When using vegetable based saw chain oil, dismantle and clean the groove in the bar and saw chain before long-term storage. Otherwise there is a risk of the saw chain oil oxidizing, which will result in the saw chain becoming stiff and the bar tip sprocket jamming.

Filling with chain oil

• All our chain saws have an automatic chain lubrication system. On some models the oil ﬂow is also adjustable.

• The saw chain oil tank and the fuel tank are designed so that the fuel runs out before the saw chain oil.

14 – English

• Check that the oil hole in the bar is not obstructed. Clean if necessary.

If the chain lubrication system is still not working after carrying out the above checks and associated measures you should contact your servicing dealer.

GENERAL SAFETY PRECAUTIONS

Chain drive sprocket

The clutch drum is ﬁtted with one of the following drive sprockets:

A Spur sprocket (the chain sprocket is welded on the drum) B Rim sprocket (replaceable)

Regularly check the degree of wear on the drive sprocket. Replace if wear is excessive. Replace the drive sprocket whenever you replace the chain.

Needle bearing lubrication

Both versions of sprockets have a needle bearing on the drive shaft, which has to be greased regularly (once a week). CAUTION! Use only high quality bearing grease or engine oil.

See instructions under the heading Maintenance, Needle bearing lubrication.

Checking wear on cutting equipment

Check the chain daily for:

• Visible cracks in rivets and links.

• Whether the chain is stiff.

• Whether rivets and links are badly worn. Replace the saw chain if it exhibits any of the points

above. We recommend you compare the existing chain with a

new chain to decide how badly the existing chain is worn. File all the teeth to the same length. When the length of

the cutting teeth is reduced to 5/32 inch (4 mm) the chain is worn out and should be replaced.

Bar

• Whether the groove in the bar has become badly worn. Replace the bar if necessary.

• Whether the tip of the bar is uneven or badly worn. If a hollow forms on the underside of the bar tip this is due to running with a slack chain.

• To prolong the life of the bar you should turn it over daily.

WARNING! Most chain saw accidents happen when the chain touches the operator.

Wear personal protective equipment. See instructions under the heading Personal protective equipment.

Do not tackle any job that you feel you are not adequately trained for. See instructions under the headings Personal protective equipment, How to avoid kickback, Cutting equipment and General working instructions.

Avoid situations where there is a risk of kickback. See instructions under the heading Machine

Use the recommended protective equipment and check its condition. See instructions under the heading General working instructions.

Check that all the chain saw safety features are working. See instructions under the headings General working instructions and General safety precautions.

′′′′s safety equipment.

Check regularly:

• Whether there are burrs on the edges of the bar. Remove these with a ﬁle if necessary.

English – 15

ASSEMBLY

Fitting the bar and chain

WARNING! Always wear gloves, when working with the chain, in order to

protect your hands from injury.

Check that the chain brake is in disengaged position by moving the front hand guard towards the front handle.

Remove the bar nuts and remove the clutch cover (chain brake). Take off the transportation ring (A).

Note: If clutch cover is difﬁcult to remove, replace bar nuts, engage brake and rerelease (an audible click will be heard if released properly).

Fit the bar over the bar bolts. Place the bar in its rearmost position. Place the chain over the drive sprocket locate it in the groove on the bar. Begin on the top edge of the bar.

Tension the chain by turning the chain tensioning screw clockwise using the combination wrench.

The chain is correctly tensioned when it does not sag from the underside of the bar, but can still be turned easily by hand. Hold up the bar tip and tighten the bar nuts ﬁrmly with the combination wrench.

When ﬁtting a new chain, the chain tension has to be checked frequently until the chain is run-in. Check the chain tension regularly. A correctly tensioned chain ensures good cutting performance and long life.

Make sure that the edges of the cutting links are facing forward on the top edge of the bar.

Fit the clutch cover and locate the chain adjuster pin in the hole in the bar. Check that the drive links of the chain ﬁt correctly over the drive sprocket and that the chain is correctly located in the groove in the bar. Tighten the bar nuts ﬁnger tight.

16 – English

FUEL HANDLING

Fuel

Note! The machine is equipped with a two-stroke engine and must always be run using a mixture of gasoline and two-stroke oil. It is important to accurately measure the amount of oil to be mixed to ensure that the correct mixture is obtained. When mixing small amounts of fuel, even small inaccuracies can drastically affect the ratio of the mixture.

WARNING! Always ensure there is adequate ventilation when handling fuel.

Gasoline

• Use good quality unleaded gasoline.

• CAUTION! Engines equipped with catalytic

converters must be run on unleaded fuel mixtures.

converter and it will no longer serve its purpose.

Gasoline requirements

• All 2-Stroke RedMax products are powered by Zenoah Professional-Commercial Duty, HiPerformance, Hi-RPM, Air Cooled 2-Stroke engines. RedMax/Zenoah – Hi-Performance 2-stroke engines produce higher HP outputs as compared to standard Home Owner Duty or Light Commercial Duty production engines offered by most manufacturers.

• Exhaust emission are controlled by the fundamental engine parameters and components (eq. carburation, ignition timing and port timing) without addition of any major hardware or the introduction of an inert material during combustion.

• The RedMax/Zenoah engines are registered and certiﬁed with CARB (California Air Resources Board) and EPA (Environmental Protection Agency) to operate on CLEAN Mid-grade 89 octane or Premium, unleaded (lead-free) gasoline and RedMax air-cooled "MaxLife", synthetic blend Premium two-stroke engine oil mixed at 50:1 ratio.

Leaded gasoline will destroy the catalytic

WARNING! Gasoline is very ﬂammable. Avoid smoking or bringing any ﬂame or

sparks near fuel. Make sure to stop the engine and allow it to cool before refueling the unit. Select outdoor bare ground for fueling and move at least 10 ft (3 m) away from the fueling point before starting the engine.

• Unleaded gasoline is recommended to reduce the contamination of the air for the sake of your health and the environment.

• This Hi-Performance Air Cooled 2-stroke Engine requires the use of Minimum 89 Octane (R+M)/2 (Midgrade or Premium) clean gasoline. Gasoline may contain maximum of 10% Ethanol (grain alcohol) or up to 15% MTBE (Methyl tertiarybutylether). Gasoline containing Methanol (Wood Alcohol) is NOT approved.

IMPORTANT! If octane rating of the Mid Grade gasoline in your area is lower than 89 Octane use Premium Unleaded Gasoline. The majority of all 2-stroke engine manufacturers in the USA and Canada recommend using gasoline with 89 Octane or higher.

CAUTION! Gasoline with an octane rating lower than 89 will greatly increase the engines operating temperature. Low octane gasoline will cause detonation (knock) resulting in piston seizures and major internal engine components damage.

Poor quality gasolines or oils may damage sealing rings, fuel lines or fuel tank of the engine.

IMPORTANT! Failures caused by operating engines on gasoline with octane rating lower than 89 are not covered by the RedMax Two-Stroke engine warranty.

CAUTION! Alternative fuels, such as E-15 (15% ethanol), E-20 (20% ethanol), E-85 (85% ethanol) are NOT classiﬁed as gasoline and are NOT approved for use in RedMax 2-stroke gasoline engines. Use of alternative fuels will cause major engine performance and durability problems such as: improper clutch engagements, overheating, vapor lock, power loss, lubrication deﬁciency, deterioration of fuel lines, gaskets and internal carburetor components, etc... Alternative fuels cause high moisture absorption into the fuel/oil mixture leading to oil and fuel separation.

Oil requirements

• Use only RedMax "MaxLife", Synthetic blend Premium air-cooled two-stroke engine oil or oil certiﬁedto ISO-L-EGD (ISO/CD1378) standard AND one that is JASO-FD registered. RedMax air-cooled "MaxLife", Synthetic blend Premium two stroke engine oil and ISO-L-EGD (ISO/CD1378) AND JASOFD oils arefully compatible with gasoline’s containing 10% Ethanol. RedMax air-cooled "MaxLife", Synthetic blend Premium two stroke engine oil and ISO-L-EGD (ISO/CD1378) AND JASO-FD oils are Universal and should be mixed at 50:1 ratio for all 2 stroke air cooled engines sold in the past regardless of mixing ratios speciﬁed in those manuals.

English – 17

FUEL HANDLING

• If the oil is registered with JASO, the JASO Logo with FD and registration number will be displayed on the container. The highest JASO rating is "FD", which equals the ISO-L-EGD rating. Lower ratings are "FC", "FB" and "FA".

• Engine problems due to inadequate lubrication caused by failure to use ISO-L-EGD certiﬁed and JASO FD registered oil such as "MaxLife", RedMax Synthetic blend Premium 2-stroke oil WILL VOID THE REDMAX TWO-STROKE ENGINE WARRANTY.

CAUTION! Do not use NMMA (National Marine Manufacturers Association), BIA (Boating Industry Association), and TCW (two cycle water cooled) oils designed for mopeds or outboard water cooled marine engines. Do not use API (American Petroleum Institute), TC (Two Cycle) labeled oils. The API-TC test standard has been discontinued by API in 1995 and it no longer exists.

Gasoline/oil mixture storage recommendations

Store your gasoline or gasoline/oil mixture in a cool dry area in a tightly sealed approved container to limit the entry of moisture and additional air (oxygen). Moisture and air cause the development of varnish and gum, making the fuel stale. Stored gasoline and gasoline/oil mixture ages and loses its octane rating and volatility. Do not mix more gasoline/oil than you intend to use in 30 days, and 60 days when fuel stabilizer is added. RedMax air-cooled "Max Life" synthetic blend Premium two-stroke engine oil "contains fuel stabilizer" and will automatically extend your gasoline/oil mixture life up to 60 days.

Mixing ratio

1:50 (2%) for all engines.

Gasoline, litre Two-stroke oil, litre

2% (1:50) 5 0,10 10 0,43/0,20 15 0,30 20 0,40 US gallon US ﬂ. oz. 1 2 1/2 2 1/2 6 1/2 5 12 7/8

Mixing

• Always mix the gasoline and oil in a clean container intended for fuel.

• Always start by ﬁlling half the amount of the gasoline to be used. Then add the entire amount of oil. Mix (shake) the fuel mixture. Add the remaining amount of gasoline.

• Mix (shake) the fuel mixture thoroughly before ﬁlling the machine’s fuel tank.

• Do not mix more than one month’s supply of fuel at a time.

• If the machine is not used for some time the fuel tank should be emptied and cleaned.

Chain oil

• We recommend the use of special RedMax bar and chain oil with good adhesion characteristics.

• Never use waste oil. This results in damage to the oil pump, the bar and the chain.

• It is important to use oil of the right grade (suitable viscosity range) to suit the air temperature.

• In temperatures below 32°F (0°C) some oils become too viscous. This can overload the oil pump and result in damage to the oil pump components.

• Contact your service agent when choosing chain oil.

18 – English

FUEL HANDLING

Fueling

WARNING! Taking the following precautions, will lessen the risk of ﬁre:

Do not smoke and do not place any hot objects in the vicinity of fuel.

Always stop the engine and let it cool for a few minutes before refuelling.

When refuelling, open the fuel cap slowly so that any excess pressure is released gently.

Tighten the fuel cap carefully after refuelling.

Always move the machine away from the refuelling area before starting.

Clean the area around the fuel cap. Clean the fuel and chain oil tanks regularly. The fuel ﬁlter must be replaced at least once a year. Contamination in the tanks causes malfunction. Make sure the fuel is well mixed by shaking the container before refuelling. The capacities of the chain oil tank and fuel tank are carefully matched. You should therefore always ﬁll the chain oil tank and fuel tank at the same time.

WARNING! Fuel and fuel vapor are highly ﬂammable. Take care when handling fuel

and chain oil. Be aware of the risks of ﬁre, explosion and those associated with inhalation.

Fuel safety

• Never refuel the machine while the engine is running.

• Make sure there is plenty of ventilation when refuelling or mixing fuel (gasoline and 2-stroke oil).

• Move the machine at least 10 ft (3 m) from the refuelling point before starting it.

• Never start the machine:

1 If you have spilled fuel or chain oil on the machine.

Wipe off the spillage and allow remaining fuel to evaporate.

2 If you have spilled fuel on yourself or your clothes,

change your clothes. Wash any part of your body that has come in contact with fuel. Use soap and water.

3 If the machine is leaking fuel. Check regularly for

leaks from the fuel cap and fuel lines.

WARNING! Never use a machine with visible damage to the spark plug guard and ignition cable. A risk of sparking arises, which can cause a ﬁre.

Transport and storage

• Always store the chain saw and fuel so that there is no risk of leakages or fumes coming into contact with sparks or naked ﬂames from electrical equipment, electric motors, relays/switches, boilers and the like.

• Always store fuel in an approved container designed for that purpose.

• For longer periods of storage or for transport of the chain saw, the fuel and chain oil tanks should be emptied. Ask where you can dispose of waste fuel and chain oil at your local gas station.

• Ensure the machine is cleaned and that a complete service is carried out before long-term storage.

• The bar guard must always be ﬁtted to the cutting attachment when the machine is being transported or in storage, in order to prevent accident contact with the sharp chain. Even a non-moving chain can cause serious cuts to yourself or persons you bump into with an exposed chain.

Long-term storage

Empty the fuel/oil tanks in a well ventilated area. Store the fuel in approved cans in a safe place. Fit the bar guard. Clean the machine. See instructions under the heading Maintenance schedule.

English – 19

STARTING AND STOPPING

Starting and stopping

WARNING! Note the following before starting:

The chain brake must be engaged when the chain saw is started to reduce the chance of contact with the moving chain during starting.

Never start a chain saw unless the bar, chain and all covers are ﬁtted correctly. Otherwise the clutch can come loose and cause personal injuries.

Place the machine on ﬁrm ground. Make sure you have a secure footing and that the chain cannot touch anything.

Keep people and animals well away from the working area.

Cold engine

Starting: The chain brake should be activated when

starting the chain saw. Activate the chain brake by pushing the front hand guard forwards.

If the machine is ﬁtted with a decompression valve (A): Press the valve to reduce the pressure in the cylinder and make starting easier. You should always use the decompression valve when starting the machine. Once the machine has started the valve will automatically return to its closed position.

Warm engine

Use the same procedure as for starting a cold engine but without setting the choke control in the choke position. The correct choke/start throttle setting is obtained by moving the choke control to the choke position and then pushing it in again.

Starting

Ignition; choke: Set the choke control in the choke

position. This should automatically set the stop switch to the start position.

Start throttle: The correct choke/start throttle setting is obtained by moving the control to the choke position.

20 – English

Grip the front handle with your left hand. Hold the chain saw on the ground by placing your right foot through the rear handle. Pull the starter handle with your right hand and pull out the starter cord slowly until you feel a resistance (as the starter pawls engage) then pull ﬁrmly and rapidly.

hand

CAUTION! Do not pull the starter cord all the way out and do not let go of the starter handle when the cord is fully extended. This can damage the machine.

Push in the choke control as soon as the engine ﬁres and make repeated starting attempts. Immediately press and release the throttle when the engine starts. That will disengage the throttle latch.

Never wrap the starter cord around your

STARTING AND STOPPING

As the chain brake is still activated the engine must return to idling speed as soon as possible by disengaging the throttle latch in order to avoid unnecessery wear on the clutch assembly.

• The chain brake should be activated when starting. Se instructions under the heading Start and stop. Do not drop start. This method is very dangerous because you may lose control of the saw.

CAUTION! Do not pull the starter cord all the way out and do not let go of the starter handle when the cord is fully extended. This can damage the machine.

Note! Pull the front hand guard towards the front handle. The

chain brake is now disengaged. Your saw is ready for use.

WARNING! Long term inhalation of the engine’s exhaust fumes, chain oil mist

and dust from sawdust can represent a health risk.

• Never start a chain saw unless the bar, chain and all covers are ﬁtted correctly. See instructions under the heading Assembly. Without a bar and chain attached to the chain saw the clutch can come loose and cause serious injury.

• Never start the machine indoors. Exhaust fumes can be dangerous if inhaled.

• Observe your surroundings and make sure that there is no risk of people or animals coming into contact with the cutting equipment.

• Always hold the saw with both hands. The right hand should be on the rear handle, and the left hand on the front handle. All people, whether right or left handed, should use this grip. Use a ﬁrm grip with thumbs and ﬁngers encircling the chain saw handles.

Stopping

The engine is stopped by pushing the stop switch to the stop position.

English – 21

Before use:

WORKING TECHNIQUES

• To make sure that none of the above might come within reach of your saw or be injured by falling trees.

1 Check that the chain brake works correctly and is not

damaged. 2 Check that the rear right hand guard is not damaged. 3 Check that the throttle lockout works correctly and is

not damaged. 4 Check that the stop switch works correctly and is not

damaged. 5 Check that all handles are free from oil. 6 Check that the anti vibration system works and is not

damaged. 7 Check that the mufﬂer is securely attached and not

damaged. 8 Check that all parts of the chain saw are tightened

correctly and that they are not damaged or missing. 9 Check that the chain catcher is in place and not

damaged. 10 Check the chain tension.

General working instructions

IMPORTANT! This section describes basic safety rules for using a

chain saw. This information is never a substitute for professional skills and experience. If you get into a situation where you feel unsafe, stop and seek expert advice. Contact your chain saw dealer, service agent or an experienced chain saw user. Do not attempt any task that you are not sure you can handle!

Before using a chain saw you must understand the effects of kickback and how to avoid them. See instructions under the heading How to avoid kickback.

Before using a chain saw you must understand the difference between cutting with the top and bottom edges of the bar. See instructions under the headings How to avoid kickback and Machine’s safety equipment.

Wear personal protective equipment. See instructions under the heading Personal protective equipment.

CAUTION! Follow the instructions above, but do not use a chain saw in a situation where you cannot call for help in case of an accident.

2 Do not use the machine in bad weather, such as

dense fog, heavy rain, strong wind, intense cold, etc. Working in bad weather is tiring and often brings added risks, such as icy ground, unpredictable felling direction, etc.

3 Take great care when removing small branches and

avoid cutting bushes (i.e. cutting many small branches at the same time). Small branches can be grabbed by the chain and thrown back at you, causing serious injury.

4 Make sure you can move and stand safely. Check the

area around you for possible obstacles (roots, rocks, branches, ditches, etc.) in case you have to move suddenly. Take great care when working on sloping ground.

5 Take great care when cutting a tree that is under

tension. A tree that is under tension may spring back to its normal position before or after being cut. If you position yourself incorrectly or make the cut in the wrong place the tree may hit you or the machine and cause you to lose control. Both situations can cause serious personal injury.

Basic safety rules

1 Look around you:

• To ensure that people, animals or other things cannot

affect your control of the machine.

22 – English

6 Before moving your chain saw switch off the engine

and lock the chain using the chain brake. Carry the chain saw with the bar and chain pointing backwards.

WORKING TECHNIQUES

Fit a guard to the bar before transporting the chain saw or carrying it for any distance.

7 When you put the chain saw on the ground, lock the

saw chain using the chain brake and ensure you have a constant view of the machine. Switch the engine off before leaving your chain saw for any length of time.

General rules

1 If you understand what kickback is and how it happens

then you can reduce or eliminate the element of surprise. By being prepared you reduce the risk. Kickback is usually quite mild, but it can sometimes be very sudden and violent.

2 Always hold the chain saw ﬁrmly with your right hand

on the rear handle and your left hand on the front handle. Wrap your ﬁngers and thumbs around the handles. You should use this grip whether you are right-handed or left-handed. This grip minimizes the effect of kickback and lets you keep the chain saw under control.

Do not let go of the handles!

branches without ﬁrst separating them. Only saw one log or one piece at a time. Remove the cut pieces to keep your working area safe.

4 Never use the chain saw above shoulder height

and avoid cutting with the tip of the bar. Never use the chain saw one-handed!

5 In order to keep control of your saw, always maintain

a ﬁrm foothold. Never work on a ladder, in a tree or on any other insecure support.

3 Most kickback accidents happen during limbing. Make

sure you are standing ﬁrmly and that there is nothing in the way that might make you trip or lose your balance.

Lack of concentration can lead to kickback if the kickback zone of the bar accidentally touches a branch, nearby tree or some other object.

Have control over the workpiece. If the pieces you intend to cut are small and light, they can jam in the saw chain and be thrown towards you. Even if this does not need to be a danger, you may be surprised and lose control of the saw. Never saw stacked logs or

6 Always use a fast cutting speed, i.e. full throttle. 7 Take great care when you cut with the top edge of the

bar, i.e. when cutting from the underside of the object. This is known as cutting with a pushing chain. The chain tries to push the chain saw back towards the user. If the saw chain is jamming, the saw may be pushed back at you.

8 Unless the user resists this pushing force there is a

risk that the chain saw will move so far backwards that

English – 23

WORKING TECHNIQUES

only the kickback zone of the bar is in contact with the

tree, which can lead to a kickback.

2 Make sure the object you are cutting will not split.

Cutting with the bottom edge of the bar, i.e. from the top

of the object downwards, is known as cutting with a

pulling chain. In this case the chain saw pulls itself

towards the tree and the front edge of the chain saw

body rests naturally on the trunk when cutting. Cutting

with a pulling chain gives the operator better control over

the chain saw and the position of the kickback zone.

9 Follow the instructions on sharpening and maintaining

your bar and chain. When you replace the bar and

chain use only combinations that are recommended

by us. See instructions under the headings Cutting

equipment and Technical data.

Basic cutting technique

WARNING! Never use a chain saw by holding it with one hand. A chain saw is

not safely controlled with one hand. Always have a secure, ﬁrm grip around the handles with both hands.

General

• Always use full throttle when cutting!

• Reduce the speed to idle after every cut (running the

engine for too long at full throttle without any load, i.e.

without any resistance from the chain during cutting,

can lead to serious engine damage).

• Cutting from above = Cutting with a pulling chain.

• Cutting from below = Cutting with pushing chain. Cutting with a pushing chain increases the risk of

kickback. See instructions under the heading How to avoid kickback.

Terms

Cutting = General term for cutting through wood. Limbing = Cutting branches off a felled tree. Splitting = When the object you are cutting breaks off

before the cut is complete.

There are ﬁve important factors you should consider before making a cut:

1 Make sure the cutting equipment will not jam in the

cut.

3 Make sure the chain will not strike the ground or any

other object during or after cutting.

Is there a risk of kickback?

4 Do the conditions and surrounding terrain affect how

safely you can stand and move about?

Two factors decide whether the chain will jam or the object that you are cutting will split: the ﬁrst is how the object is supported before and after cutting, and the second is whether it is in tension.

In most cases you can avoid these problems by cutting in two stages; from the top and from the bottom. You need to support the object so that it will not trap the chain or split during cutting.

IMPORTANT! If the chain jams in the cut: stop the engine! Don’t try to pull the chain saw free. If you do you may be injured by the chain when the chain saw suddenly breaks free. Use a lever to open up the cut and free the chain saw.

The following instructions describe how to handle the common situations you are likely to encounter when using a chain saw.

Limbing

When limbing thick branches you should use the same approach as for cutting.

Cut difﬁcult branches piece by piece.

24 – English

WORKING TECHNIQUES

Cutting

WARNING! Never attempt to cut logs while they are in a pile or when a couple

of logs are lying together. Such procedures drastically increase the risk of kickback which can result in a serious or fatal injury.

If you have a pile of logs, each log you attempt to cut should be removed from the pile, placed on a saw horse or runners and cut individually.

Remove the cut pieces from the cutting area. By leaving them in the cutting area, you increase the risk for inadvertently getting a kickback, as well as increasing the risk of losing your balance while working.

The log is supported at one end. There is a high risk that it will split.

Start by cutting from below (about 1/3 of the way through).

Finish by cutting from above so that the two cuts meet.

The log is supported at both ends. There is a high risk that the chain will jam.

The log is lying on the ground. There is little risk of the chain jamming or the object splitting. However there is a risk that the chain will touch the ground when you ﬁnish the cut.

Cut all the way through the log from above. Avoid letting the chain touch the ground as you ﬁnish the cut. Maintain full throttle but be prepared for what might happen.

If it is possible (can you turn the log?) stop cutting about 2/3 of the way through the log.

Turn the log and ﬁnish the cut from the opposite side.

Start by cutting from above (about 1/3 of the way through).

Finish by cutting from below so that the two cuts meet.

Tree felling technique

IMPORTANT! It takes a lot of experience to fell a tree. Inexperienced users of chain saws should not fell trees. Do not attempt any task beyond your experience level!

Safe distance

The safe distance between a tree that is to be felled and anyone else working nearby is at least 2 1/2 tree lengths. Make sure that no-one else is in this ”risk zone” before or during felling.

English – 25

WORKING TECHNIQUES

Felling direction

The aim is to fell the tree in a position where you can limb and cross-cut the log as easily as possible. You want it to fall in a location where you can stand and move about safely.

Once you have decided which way you want the tree to fall you must judge which way the tree would fall naturally.

Several factors affect this:

• Lean of the tree

• Bend

• Wind direction

• Arrangement of branches

• Weight of snow

• Obstacles within the reach of the tree: for example,

other trees, power lines, roads and buildings.

• Look for signs of damage and rot in the stem, this

makes it more probably that the tree will break and

start to fall before you expect it to.

You may ﬁnd you are forced to let the tree fall in its natural direction because it is impossible or dangerous to try to make it fall in the direction you ﬁrst intended.

Another very important factor, which does not affect the felling direction but does affect your safety, is to make sure the tree has no damaged or dead branches that might break off and hit you during felling.

The main point to avoid is letting the tree fall onto another tree. It is very dangerous to remove a trapped tree and there is high accident risk. See instructions under the heading Freeing a tree that has fallen badly.

Clearing the trunk and preparing your retreat

Delimb the stem up to shoulder height. It is safer to work from the top down and to have the tree between you and the saw.

Remove any undergrowth from the base of the tree and check the area for obstacles (stones, branches, holes, etc.) so that you have a clear path of retreat when the tree starts to fall. Your path of retreat should be roughly 135 degrees away from the intended felling direction.

Retreat path

Danger zone

Felling direction

Retreat path

Felling

WARNING! Unless you have special training we advise you not to fell trees with a diameter larger than the bar length of your saw!

Felling is done using three cuts. First you make the directional cuts, which consist of the top cut and the bottom cut, then you ﬁnish with the felling cut. By placing these cuts correctly you can control the felling direction very accurately.

Directional cuts

To make the directional cuts you begin with the top cut. Stand to the right of the tree and cut on the pull stroke.

IMPORTANT! During critical felling operations, hearing protectors should be lifted immediately when sawing is completed so that sounds and warning signals can be heard.

26 – English

Next make the bottom cut so that it ﬁnishes exactly at the end of the top cut.

WORKING TECHNIQUES

The directional cuts should run 1/4 of the diameter through the trunk and the angle between the top cut and bottom cut should be 45

°.

All control over the felling direction is lost if the felling hinge is too narrow or non-existent, or if the directional cuts and felling cut are badly placed.

The line where the two cuts meet is called the directional cut line. This line should be perfectly horizontal and at right angles (90

Felling cut

The felling cut is made from the opposite side of the tree and it must be perfectly horizontal. Stand on the left side of the tree and cut on the pull stroke.

Make the felling cut about 1.5-2 inches (3-5 cm) above the bottom directional cut.

Finish the felling cut parallel with the directional cut line so that the distance between them is at least 1/10 of the trunk diameter. The uncut section of the trunk is called the felling hinge.

°) to the chosen felling direction.

When the felling cut and directional cut are complete the tree should start to fall by itself or with the aid of a felling wedge or breaking bar.

We recommend that you use a bar that is longer than the diameter of the tree, so that you can make the felling cut and directional cuts with single cutting strokes. See instructions under the heading Technical data section to ﬁnd out which lengths of bar are recommended for your saw.

There are methods for felling trees with a diameter larger than the bar length. However these methods involve a much greater risk that the kickback zone of the bar will come into contact with the tree.

The felling hinge controls the direction that the tree falls in.

English – 27

WORKING TECHNIQUES

Freeing a tree that has fallen badly

Freeing a ”trapped tree”

It is very dangerous to remove a trapped tree and there is high accident risk.

Never try to fell the tree that is trapped.

Decide which is the safest way to release the tension and whether you are able to do it safely. In complicated situations the only safe method is to put aside your chain saw and use a winch.

General advice:

Position yourself so that you will be clear of the tree or branch when the tension is released.

Make one or more cuts at or near the point of maximum tension. Make as many cuts of sufﬁcient depth as necessary to reduce the tension and make the tree or branch break at the point of maximum tension.

Never work in the risk zone of the hanging trapped tree.

The safest method is to use a winch.

• Tractor-mounted

• Portable

Cutting trees and branches that are in tension

Preparations: Work out which side is in tension and where the point of maximum tension is (i.e. where it would break if it was bent even more).

Never cut straight through a tree or branch that is in tension!

If you must cut across tree/limb, make two to three cuts, one inch apart, one to two inches deep.

Continue to cut deeper until tree/limb bends and tension is released.

Cut tree/limb from outside the bend, after tension has been released.

28 – English

WORKING TECHNIQUES

How to avoid kickback

WARNING! Kickback can happen very suddenly and violently; kicking the chain

saw, bar and chain back at the user. If this happens when the chain is moving it can cause very serious, even fatal injuries. It is vital you understand what causes kickback and that you can avoid it by taking care and using the right working technique.

What is kickback?

The word kickback is used to describe the sudden reaction that causes the chain saw and bar to jump off an object when the upper quadrant of the tip of the bar, known as the kickback zone, touches an object.

Kickback always occurs in the cutting plane of the bar. Normally the chain saw and bar are thrown backwards and upwards towards the user. However, the chain saw may move in a different direction depending on the way it was being used when the kickback zone of the bar touched the object.

Limbing

WARNING! A majority of kickback accidents occur during limbing. Do not use the kickback zone of the guide bar. Be extremely cautious and avoid contacting the log, other limbs or objects with the nose of the guide bar. Be extremely cautious of limbs under tension. They can spring back toward you and cause loss of control resulting in injury.

Make sure that you can stand and move about safely. Work on the left side of the trunk. Work as close as possible to the chain saw for maximum control. If possible, let the weight of the chain saw rest on the trunk.

Keep the trunk between you and the chain saw as you move along the trunk.

Cutting the trunk into logs

See instructions under the heading Basic cutting technique.

Kickback only occurs if the kickback zone of the bar touches an object.

English – 29

MAINTENANCE

General

The user must only carry out the maintenance and service work described in this manual.

IMPORTANT! Any maintenance other than that described in this manual must be carried out by your servicing dealer (retailer).

Carburetor adjustment

Every unit is run at the factory and the carburetor is set in compliance with emission regulations. Therefore the chain saw is equipped with movement limiters on the carburetor adjustment screws, that limit the adjustment possibilities to a maximum of a 1/2 turn.

1/2

Your RedMax product has been designed and manufactured to speciﬁcations that reduce harmful emissions.

Function

• The carburetor governs the engine’s speed via the

throttle control. Air and fuel are mixed in the

carburetor. The air/fuel mixture is adjustable. Correct

adjustment is essential to get the best performance

from the machine.

• The satisfactory operation of a catalytic converter

depends, among other factors, on the correct

adjustment of the carburetor. Carefully follow the

instructions below, using a tachometer as an aid.

• The setting of the carburetor means that the engine is

adapted to local conditions, for example, the climate,

altitude, fuel and the type of 2-stroke oil.

• The carburetor has three adjustment controls:

- L = Low speed jet

- H = High speed jet

- T = Idle adjustment screw

• The L and H-jets are used to adjust the supply of fuel

to match the rate that air is admitted, which is

controlled with the throttle. If they are screwed

clockwise the air/fuel ratio becomes leaner (less fuel)

and if they are turned anti-clockwise the ratio becomes richer (more fuel).

• The T-screw regulates the throttle setting at idle speed. If the T-screw is turned clockwise this gives a higher idle speed; turning it anti-clockwise gives a lower idle speed.

Basic settings and running in

The basic carburetor settings are adjusted during testing at the factory. Avoid running at a too high speed for extended periods during the ﬁrst 10 hours.

CAUTION! If the chain rotates while idling the T-screw must be turned anti-clockwise until the chain stops.

Rec. idle speed: 2700 rpm

Fine adjustment

When the machine has been ”run-in” the carburetor should be ﬁnely adjusted.

be carried out by a qualiﬁed person.

jet, then the idling screw T and then the H-jet.

The ﬁne adjustment should

First adjust the L-

Conditions

• Before any adjustments are made, make sure the air ﬁlter and spark arrestor screen are clean (if not, replace them) and the cylinder cover ﬁtted. Adjusting the carburettor while a dirty air ﬁlter is in use will result in a leaner mixture next time the ﬁlter is cleaned. This can give rise to serious engine damage.

• Do not attempt to adjust the L and H jets beyond

either stop as this could cause damage.

• Make sure the bar and chain are properly adjusted.

• Now start the machine according to the starting instructions and let it warm up for 10 minutes.

• Place the machine on a ﬂat surface so that the bar points away from you and so that the bar and chain do not come into contact with the surface or other objects.

Low speed jet L

Before any adjustments are made, make sure the air ﬁlter and spark arrestor screen are clean (if not, replace them) and the cylinder cover ﬁtted. Adjusting the carburettor while a dirty air ﬁlter is in use will result in a leaner mixture next time the ﬁlter is cleaned. This can give rise to serious engine damage.

Adjusting the idle speed

• Start engine, turn idle speed adjustment screw clockwise until the chain starts to rotate, then turn screw out counterclockwise until the the chain stops. Turn screw out counterclockwise an additional 1/4 turn.

WARNING! Contact your servicing dealer, if the idle speed setting cannot be adjusted so that the chain stops at idle. Do not use the chain saw until it has been properly adjusted or repaired.

30 – English

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