milwaukee M18 FTCHS12 M18 Fuel Top Handle Chainsaw Owner’s Manual

milwaukee M18 FTCHS12 M18 Fuel Top Handle Chainsaw

Product Information

• Product Name: M18 FTCHS12, M18 FTCHS14 M18 FUELTM 12 (305 MM) AND 14 (356 MM) TOP HANDLE CHAINSAWS
• Product Category: Power Tool
• Manufacturer: Cat. No.

Product Usage Instructions

• Read and understand the operator’s manual before using the chainsaw.
• Always maintain balance while operating the chainsaw to ensure better control.
• Follow all safety warnings and instructions provided with the power tool to reduce the risk of electric shock or injury.
• Keep the work area well-lit to avoid accidents in dark areas.
• Avoid distractions while using the chainsaw to prevent loss of control.
• Ensure electrical safety by using properly grounded power tools and avoiding modifications to the plug.
• Do not use the chainsaw near wet or damp areas to reduce the risk of electric shock.
• Avoid carrying, pulling, or unplugging the chainsaw by its cord to prevent damage or electric shock.
• Inspect cords for any damage or entanglement before use to minimize the risk of electric shock.
• Use an extension cord suitable for outdoor use to reduce the risk of electric shock.
• Take necessary personal safety precautions such as using appropriate protective gear (dust mask, non-skid safety shoes, hard hat, hearing protection) based on working conditions.
• Operate the chainsaw with caution and avoid using it when tired or under the influence.
• Follow the recommended battery usage and charging instructions to prevent injuries and damage to the battery.
• Avoid contact with battery liquid and seek medical help if contact occurs.
• Charge the battery only within the specified temperature range to avoid injury or damage to the battery.

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

GENERAL POWER TOOL SAFETY WARNINGS

WARNING Read all safety warnings, instructions provided with this power tool. Failure to follow all instructions listed below may result in electric shock,
Save all warnings and in-structions for future reference. The term “power tool” in the warnings refers to your mains-operated (corded) power tool or battery-operated (cordless) power tool.

WORK AREA SAFETY

• Keep work area clean and well lit. Cluttered or dark areas invite accidents.
• Do not operate power tools in explosive liquids, gases or dust. Power tools create sparks which may ignite the dust or fumes.
•  Keep children and bystanders away while operating a power tool. Distractions can cause you to lose control.

ELECTRICAL SAFETY

• Power tool plugs must match the outlet. Never modify the plug in any way. Do not use any adapter plugs with earthed (grounded) power tools.
  reduce risk of electric shock.

• Avoid body contact with earthed or grounded surfaces, such as pipes, radiators, ranges and refrigerators. There is an increased risk of electric shock if your body is earthed or grounded.

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

• Do not abuse the cord. Never use the cord for carrying, pulling or unplugging the power tool. Keep cord away from heat, oil, sharp edges or moving parts. Damaged or entangled cords increase the risk of electric shock.

• When operating a power tool outdoors, use an extension cord suitable for outdoor use. Use of a cord suitable for outdoor use reduces the risk of electric shock.
  If operating a power tool in a damp location is unavoidable, use a residual current device (RCD) protected supply. Use of a RCD reduces the risk of electric shock.

PERSONAL SAFETY

•  Stay alert, watch what you are doing and use common sense when operating a power tool. Do not use a power tool while you are tired or under  A moment of inattention while operating power tools may result in serious personal injury.

• Use personal protective equipment. Always wear eye protection. Protective equipment such as a dust mask, non-skid safety shoes, hard hat or hearing protection used for appropriate conditions will reduce personal injuries.

• Prevent unintentional starting. Ensure the switch source and/or battery pack, picking up or carrying the tool.
  the switch or energising power tools that have the switch on invites accidents.

• Remove any adjusting key or wrench before turning the power tool on. A wrench or a key left attached to a rotating part of the power tool may result in personal injury.

• Do not overreach. Keep proper footing and balance at all times. This enables better control of the power tool in unexpected situations. Dress properly. Do not wear loose clothing or jewellery. Keep your hair and clothing away from moving parts. Loose clothes, jewellery 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 dust collection can reduce dust-related hazards. Do not let familiarity gained from frequent use of tools allow you to become complacent and ignore tool safety principles. A careless action can cause severe injury within a fraction of a second.

POWER TOOL USE AND CARE

• Do not force the power tool. Use the correct power tool for your application. The correct power tool will do the job better and safer at the rate for which it was designed.
  Do not use the power tool if the switch does not Any power tool that cannot be controlled with the switch is dangerous and must be repaired.

• Disconnect the plug from the power source and/or remove the battery pack, if detachable, from the power tool before making any adjustments, changing accessories, or storing power tools. Such preventive safety measures reduce the risk of starting the power tool accidentally.

• Store idle power tools out of the reach of children and do not allow persons unfamiliar with the power tool or these instructions to operate the power tool. Power tools are dangerous in the hands of untrained users.

• Maintain power tools and accessories. Check for misalignment or binding of moving parts, breakage of parts and any other condition that have the power tool repaired before use. Many accidents are caused by poorly maintained power tools.

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

• Use the power tool, 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 power tool
  result in a hazardous situation.

• Keep handles and grasping surfaces dry, clean and free from oil and grease. Slippery handles and grasping surfaces do not allow for safe handling and control of the tool in unexpected situations.

BATTERY TOOL USE AND CARE
A charger that is suitable for one type with another battery pack. battery packs. Use of any other battery packs 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 to another. Shorting the battery terminals together to a fire.
• Under abusive conditions, liquid may be ejected from the battery; avoid contact. If contact accident-eyes, additionally seek medical help. Liquid ejected from the battery may cause irritation or burns. Do not use a battery pack or tool that is damaged or modified. Damaged or modified batteries may exhibit unpredictable behavior resulting in fire, explosion or risk of injury.
• Do not expose a battery pack or tool to fire or excessive temperature. Exposure to fire or temperature above 130°C (265°F) may cause explosion
• Follow all charging instructions and do not charge the battery pack or tool outside the temperature range specified in the instructions. Charging improperly or at temperatures outside the specified range may damage the battery and increase the risk of fire.

SERVICE
This will ensure that the safety of the power tool is maintained.

•  Never service damaged battery packs. Service of battery packs should only be performed by the manufacturer or authorized service providers.

SPECIFIC SAFETY RULES FOR CHAINSAWS

General chainsaw safety warnings:

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

• Always hold the chainsaw with your right hand on the rear handle and your left hand on the front handle. Holding the chainsaw with a reversed hand should never be done.
  Hold the chainsaw by insulated gripping surfaces only, because the saw chain may contact hidden wiring or its own cord. Saw chains contacting a “live” wire may make exposed metal parts of the chainsaw “live” and could give the operator an electric shock.

• Wear eye protection. Further protective equipment for hearing head, hands, legs, and feet is recommended. Adequate protective clothing will contact with the saw chain.
  Do not operate a chainsaw on a ladder, from a rooftop, or any unstable support. Operation of a chainsaw in this manner could result in serious personal injury.
  Always keep proper footing and operate the and level surface. Slippery or unstable surfaces may cause a loss of balance or control of the chainsaw.

• When cutting a limb that is under tension be alert for spring back.
  is released the spring loaded limb may strike the operator and/or throw the chainsaw out of control.

• Use extreme caution when cutting brush and sap-lings. The slender material may catch the saw chain Carry the chainsaw by the front handle with the chainsaw switched off and away from your body. When transporting or storing the chain-saw always fit the guide bar cover. Proper handling of the chainsaw will reduce the likelihood of accidental contact with the moving saw chain. • Follow instructions for lubricating, chain tensioning and changing the bar and chain. Improperly tensioned or lubricated chain may either break or increase the chance for kickback.

• Cut wood only. Do not use chainsaw for purposes not intended. For example: do not use chainsaw for cutting metal, plastic, masonry or non-wood building materials. Use of the chainsaw for situation.

• This chainsaw is not intended for tree felling. intended could result in serious injury to the operator or bystanders.

• Do not operate a chainsaw in a tree unless you have been specifically trained to do so. Operation of a chainsaw in a tree without proper training could increase the risk of serious personal injury.

• Causes and operator prevention of kickback: Kickback may occur when the nose or tip of the guide bar touches an object, or when the wood closes in and pinches the saw chain in the cut.

• Tip contact in some cases may cause a sudden reverse reaction, kicking the guide bar up and back towards the operator.

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

• Either of these reactions may cause you to lose control of the saw which could result in serious personal injury. Do not rely exclusively upon the safety devices built into your saw.  As a chainsaw user, you should take several steps to keep your cutting jobs free from accident or injury.

• Kickback is the result of chainsaw misuse and/or incor-rect operating procedures or conditions and can be avoided by taking proper precautions as given below: • -circling the chainsaw handles, with both hands on the saw and position your body and arm to allow you to resist kickback forces. Kickback forces can be controlled by the operator, if proper precautions are taken. Do not let go of the chainsaw.

• Do not overreach and do not cut above shoulder height. This helps prevent unintended tip contact and enables better control of the chainsaw in unexpected situations.
  Only use replacement guide bars and saw chains Incorrect replace-ment guide bars and saw 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 in-creased kickback.

• Use extreme caution to reduce the risk of falling. Keep the saw chain well clear of any harness and lifeline to prevent them from being severed.

• Do not attempt to block a tree until you have an understanding of all the risks and how to avoid them. Serious injury could occur to the operator or bystanders from a blocking tree.

• Follow all instructions when clearing jammed material, storing or servicing the chainsaw. Make sure the switch is off and the battery pack is removed. Unexpected actuation of the chainsaw while clearing jammed material or servicing may result in serious personal injury. Other Chainsaw Safety Rules

• Do not start cutting until you have a clear work area, secure footing, and a planned retreat path from the falling tree. Cluttered areas invite accidents.

• Keep ALL children, bystanders, visitors, and animals out of the work area while starting or cutting with the chainsaw.
  Dress Properly – Wear snug fitting clothing. Always wear heavy, long pants, long sleeves, overalls, jeans or chaps made of cut resistant material or ones that contain cut resistant inserts. Wear non-slip safety footwear. Wear non- slip heavy duty gloves to improve your grip and to protect your hands. Do not wear jewellery, short pants, sandals, or go barefoot. Do not wear loose fitting clothing, which could be drawn into the motor or catch the chain or underbrush. Secure hair so it is above shoulder level.

• Heavy protective clothing may increase operator fatigue, which could lead to heat stroke. During weather that is hot and humid, heavy work should be scheduled for early morning or late afternoon hours when temperatures are cooler.
  Wear approved head protection suitable for your application, such as a hat or helmet for impact protection, that complies with AS/NZS 1801.

• Always be aware of what you are doing when using the chainsaw. Use common sense. Do not operate the chainsaw when you are tired, ill, or under

• Keep all parts of your body away from the saw chain when the unit is running.

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

• Stop the chainsaw before setting it down. Make sure the tool comes to a complete stop before laying it down.

• Maintain the unit with care. Keep the cutting edge sharp and clean for best performance and to reduce the risk of injury. Follow instructions for lubricating and changing accessories.

• Keep handles dry, clean, and free from oil and grease. Greasy, oily handles are slippery causing loss of control.
  Do not operate a chainsaw with one hand! Use chainsaw handles. Serious injury to the operator, helpers, bystanders, or any combination of these persons may result from one-handed operation. A chainsaw is intended for two-handed use.

• Do not operate a chainsaw that is damaged, improperly adjusted, or not completely and securely assembled. Chain should slow to a stop when the switch trigger is released. If the chain continues to turn after the switch trigger has been released, have the unit serviced by an authorized service center.

• Always maintain a proper stance.

• Do not adapt your powerhead to a bow guide or use it to power any attachments or devices not listed for the saw.

• Do not cut vines and/or small underbrush.

• Do not operate a chainsaw on a ladder, rooftop, or other unstable support; this is extremely dangerous.
  NOTE: The size of the work area depends on the job being performed as well as the size tree or work piece involved. For example, felling a tree requires a larger work area than making bucking cuts.

• Do not force the chainsaw. The job can be per-formed better and safer at the rate for which it was intended.

• Always use the right product for your application. The chainsaw should be used for cutting wood only. Never use the chainsaw to cut plastic, masonry or non-wood building materials.

• Store chainsaw when not in use. Chainsaw should be stored in a dry and high or locked area out of the reach of children. When storing the chainsaw place the Guide Bar Cover on the bar and chain.

• Battery operated units do not have to be plugged into an electrical outlet; therefore, they are always in operating condition. Be aware of possible haz-ards even when unit is not operating.

• Never let anyone use your chainsaw who has not received adequate instructions in its proper use. This applies to rentals as well as privately owned saws.
  Save these instructions. Refer to them frequently and use them to instruct others who may use this product. If you loan someone this product, loan them these instructions also.

• After each use, clean the machine with a soft dry cloth. Remove any chips, dirt and debris in the battery bay.

• If using with a lanyard, do not exceed maximum capacity marked on the lanyard label. Always determine the weight of the product, with all accesso-ries, when selecting the appropriate lanyard system. Exceeding maximum capacity may result in serious injury.

• Use with energy absorbing lanyards or dynamic climbing rope only. Other ropes, straps or chains may break and cause failure. Do not use with lan-yards at full tension.

• Do not hang tool from guide bar cover loops.

• Always use common sense and be cautious when using tools. It is not possible to anticipate every situation that could result in a dangerous outcome. Do not use this tool if you do not understand these operating instructions or you feel the work is beyond your capability; contact MILWAUKEE® Tool or a trained professional for additional information or training.
  WARNING To reduce the risk of injury when working in dusty , situations, wear appropriate respiratory protection or use a suitable dust extraction solution.

• Maintain labels and nameplates. These carry important information. If unreadable or missing, contact a MILWAUKEE® service facility for a replacement.

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

• lead from lead-based paint

• 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 equipment, such as those dust masks that are specially designed to ADDITIONAL BATTERY SAFETY

• RULES WARNING To injury, reduce the risk of fire, personal and product damage due to a short circuit, never immerse your tool, battery pack or charger in fluid or allow a fluid to flow inside them. Corrosive or conductive fluids, such as seawater, certain industrial chemicals, and bleach or bleach-containing products, etc., can cause a short circuit.

WARNING
Do not charge non-rechargeable batteries.

SYMBOLOGY

• Volts
• Direct Current
• No Load Revolutions per Minute (RPM)
• Read operator’s manual
• Wear eye, hearing, and head protection
• WARNING Beware of kickback.
• Avoid contact with bar tip
• Always use chainsaw two-handed
• Do not use chainsaw one-handed
• Do not expose to rain or use in damp locations.
• Keep bystanders at least 15 m away during use.
• Wear protective gloves
• Wear non-slip safety footwear
• Chain Brake UNLOCKED/LOCKED
• Chain Oil Reservoir
• Chain Direction
• Chain Tension Adjustment
• This saw should only be used by persons who are specifically trained in tree maintenance work.
• Regulatory Compliance Mark (RCM). This product meets applicable regulatory requirements.
• Do not dispose of electric tools together with household waste material. Electric tools and electronic equipment that have reached the end of their life must be collected separately and returned to an environmentally compatible recycling facility.

SPECIFICATIONS

• 12″ (305 mm) Cat. No. …………………. M18 FTCHS12
• 14″ (356 mm) Cat. No. …………………. M18 FTCHS14
• Volts………………………………………………………. 18V DC
• Battery Type ……………………………………………..M18™
• Charger Type…………………………………………….M18™
• RPM …………………………………………………………. 7,700
• Chain Speed …………………………………………… 15 m/s
• Bar Length ……………….. 12″ (305 mm) / 14″ (356 mm)
• Cutting Capacity …………………………..11.5″ (292 mm) /
• Bar Groove Width………………………… 0.043″ (1.1 mm)
• 12″ (305 mm) Replacement Bar …………….. 49162743
• 14″ (356 mm) Replacement Bar …………….. 49162745
• 12″ (305 mm) Replacement Chain …………. 49162742
• 14″ (356 mm) Replacement Chain …………. 49162744
• Chain Type ……………………………………..Low Kickback
• 12″ (305 mm) Chain Teeth ………………………………. 51

Weight of bare tool

• 14″ (356 mm) Chain Teeth ………………………………. 59
• Recommended Ambient with 14″ (356 mm) bar and chain ……………… 3.9 kg
• Operating Temperature …………………. -17°C to 51°C

FUNCTIONAL DESCRIPTION

1. Rear handle
2. Lock off tab
3. Variable speed trigger
4. Chain brake cleanout
5. Hand guard/chain brake
6. Direction of rotation indicator
7. Guide bar nut
8. Saw chain
9. Guide bar
10. Adjustment tool
11. Guide bar cover
12. Locating pin
13. Chain catch
14. Chain tension screw
15. Drive cover
16. Front handle
17. Oil cap
18. Oil reservoir
19. Brake band (internal)
20. Lanyard Loop

ASSEMBLY

WARNING Recharge only with the charger – manual supplied with your charger and battery.
Before removing or inserting a battery, push the hand guard/chain brake forward to ensure the brake is locked.

Removing/Inserting the Battery
To remove the battery, push in the release buttons and pull the battery pack away from the tool.
WARNING the darter ack any time the toot is not in use. To insert the battery, slide the pack into the body of the tool. Make sure it latches securely into place.

WARNING Only use accessories specifically recommended for this tool. Others may be hazardous. Replacing/Adjusting the Saw Chain and Bar WARNING Always remove battery pack before changing or removing accessories.

CAUTION Chain is sharp. Always weal protective gloves when handling the chain Use Low Kickback Saw Chains – The rankers (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 original chain or has been certified as low kickback chain per ANSI B175.1. As saw chains are sharpened during their useful life, they lose some of the low kickback qualities and extra caution should be used.

1. Remove the battery pack.

2. Place the saw on a flat, firm surface.

3. Remove the drive cover by removing the guide bar nut using the  dozen the chain by turning chain tensioning screw anti-clockwise with the scrunch.

4. Pull the guide bar off of the guide bar bolts and unloop the chain from the drive hub.

5. CAUTION Saw Chain is sharp.  Remove the chain from the guide bar groove.

6. CAUTION Saw Chain is sharp. Inspect guide bar for cracks or wear; replace if damaged.

7. Wrap the new or sharpened chain around the guide bar in the direction indicated on the saw. When replacing dull chains with sharp chains it is good practice to flip the guide bar from bottom to top.
   

8. Ensure the chain is properly set in the slot around the entire guide bar.

9. Loop the chain around the hub and fit the bar around the bolts. 00 00,00. , Hub О Bolt б
   

10. Reinstall the drive cover.

11. Use the scrench to rotate the chain tensioning screw to increase tension (clockwise) until the chain is snug around the guide bar.

12. The tension is correct when the chain snaps back after being pulled 3 mm (1/8″) away from the guide bar. No sag should be visible in the chain

13.  Do not over-tension the chain – excess tension will cause excessive wear and will reduce the life of the chain and could damage the bar. * Mia that. Remove belter a pa co and check chain tension frequently during the first two hours of use.
    

14. Tighten the guide bar nut securely. Chain Oil WARNING Always remove battery pack • before changing or removing accessories. Fill oil reservoir with chain oil before starting the chainsaw and when tank is less than 1/4 full. Failure to oil the chain will cause damage to the bar and chain.

Check oil level frequently and fill the oil reservoir after each full battery discharge. Use a high quality caaiproperty. ubicated.: Never run chaisan windle chain oil. Keep the reservoir more than 1/4 full to ensure sufficient oil is available for the job. Always lightly oil the chain when storing to prevent rust. Always empty the oil tank when storing to prevent leakage. It is recommended to use a vegetable based chain oil when pruning trees. Mineral oil may harm trees Never use waste oil, automotive oil, or very thick oils. These could damage the chainsaw. Filling the Oil Reservoir

1. Remove the battery pack.
2. Place the saw on a flat, firm surface, drive cover side down.
3. Unscrew the oil cap.
4. Carefully fill reservoir with chain oil.
5. Tighten oil cap securely. 6. Perform a functional test of the chain brake, lockoff tab, and variable speed trigger.
6. Repeat as needed during use. 8. Periodically check that the saw chain is lubricat- ing correctly: With a full reservoir, hold the tool with the tip of the guide bar pointing at a light-colored surface. • Run the tool for approximately 30 seconds. • An oil line should become visible on the light surface. • If not, remove and clean the guide bar thor- oughly. Ensure the guide bar sprocket (at the tip) rotates freely. • If the lubrication system still does not work properly, contact a MILWAUKEE® service facility.

OPERATION

DANGER Never cut near power lines, electric cords, or other electric sources. If bar and chain jams on any electrical cord or line, DO NOT TOUCH THE BAR OR CHAIN! THEY CAN BECOME ELECTRICALLY LIVE AND VERY DAN-GEROUS. Continue to hold the chainsaw by the insulated rear handle or lay it down and away from you in a safe manner. Disconnect the electrical service to the damaged line or cord before attempting to free the bar and chain from the line or cord. Contact with the bar, chain, other conductive parts of the chainsaw, or live electric cords or lines will result in death by electrocution, electric shock, or serious personal injury.
WARNING To reduce the risk of injury always wear proper eye , protection marked to comply with AS/NZS 1337.1.
When working in dusty situations, wear appropriate respiratory protection or marked to comply with AS/NZS 1716. Read and understand all instructions. Failure to follow all instructions listed below may result in Operating this chainsaw in a tree requires special working techniques, which must be observed to reduce the risk of personal injury. Never work  training for such work, including training in the use of safety equipment and other climbing equipment, such as harnesses, ropes, belts, climbing irons, snap hooks, carabiners, etc.

• Guard against kickback which can result in severe injury or death. See important safety instructions in Kickback section to avoid the risk of kickback.
  Wear approved head protection, such as a hard hat or helmet for impact protection, that complies with AS/NZS 1801.

•  Do not overreach. Do not cut above shoulder apart. Divide your weight evenly on both feet. Do not allow familiarity with this product to make you careless. Remember that a careless fraction handle and your right hand on the rear handle so that your body is to the left of the guide bar. Do not hold chainsaw by hand guard/chain brake. Keep elbow of left  arm locked so that left arm is straight to withstand kickback.

• Never use a cross-handed grip (left hand on the rear handles and right hand on the front handle). • Never allow any part of your body to be in line with the guide bar when operating the chainsaw. Never operate while in any awkward position or on a ladder or other unstable surface. You may lose control of saw causing severe injury.

• This chainsaw is not intended for tree felling. intended could result in serious injury to the operator or bystanders. Cutting a limb that has a diameter greater than the saw’s cutting capacity requires advanced techniques and should only be performed by properly trained professionals. Performing these types of cuts can cause an accident and result in death or serious personal injury.
  Keep the chainsaw running at full speed the entire time you are cutting.

• Allow the chain to cut for you. Exert only light pressure. Do not put pressure on chainsaw at end of cut.
  When not in use always have the chain brake engaged and battery removed.

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

Before Cutting

1. Perform a functional test of the chain brake, lock off tab, and variable speed trigger.
2. Inspect the chain catch.
3. Check the oil level, chain tension and sharpness, and guide bar.

Tethering
For tethering with dynamic climbing rope or energy absorbing lanyards only. Do not hang tool from guide bar cover.

Kickback

WARNING Kickback may occur when the moving chain contacts an object at the upper portion of the tip of the guide bar or when the wood closes in and pinches the saw chain in the cut. Contact at the upper  portion of the tip of the guide bar can cause the chain to dig into the object and stop the chain for an instant. The result is a lightning fast, reverse reaction which kicks the guide bar up and back toward the operator. If the saw chain is pinched along the top of the guide bar, the guide bar can be driven rapidly back toward the operator. Either of these reactions can cause loss of saw control which can result in serious injury. Do not rely exclusively upon the safety devices built into the saw. As a chainsaw user, you should take several steps to keep your cutting jobs free from accident or injury.

The following precautions should be followed to minimize kickback:

• Always grip the saw firmly with both hands. Hold the saw firmly with both hands when the unit is running. Place your right hand on the rear handle and your left hand on the front handle with your thumbs and fingers encircling the chainsaw handles. A firm grip together with a stiff left arm will help you maintain control of the saw if kickback occurs. •Make sure that the area in which you are cutting is free from obstructions. Do not let the nose of the guide bar contact a log, branch, fence, or any other obstruction that could be hit while you are operating the saw.

• Always cut with the unit running at full speed. Fully squeeze the throttle trigger and maintain a steady cutting speed.

• Use only the replacement guide bars and low kickback chains specified by the manufacturer for the saw. With a basic understanding of kickback, you can reduce or eliminate the element of surprise. Sud- den surprise contributes to accidents. Keep proper footing and balance at all times.

• Do not cut above shoulder height or overreach when cutting.

• Follow the sharpening and maintenance instructions for the saw chain.
  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

Chain Brake
To reduce the risk of accidents, the chain brake will stop the chain if kickback occurs. When the brake is pushed forward, toward the tip of the guide bar, the saw will not run. Use the chain brake when transporting or storing the saw.

Turning the Tool ON/OFF
WARNING Always be sure of your footing and grip .
The fingers should encircle the  handle and the thumb should be wrapped under the handlebar to resist kickback. Keep body to the left of the chain line. Always keep your left hand on the front handle and your right hand on the rear handle so that your body is to the left of the chain line. Never straddle the saw or chain, or lean over past the chain line.
Wear non-slip gloves for maximum grip and protection.

1. Insert the battery pack.
2.  Pull the chain brake lever until it clicks to the UNLOCKED position (toward the tool handle)
3. Grip both handles securely, keeping body out of line with the chain.
4. Press in the lock-off button and pull the trigger.
5. Allow tool to come to full speed before contacting workpiece.
6. To stop, release the trigger. Hold saw still until chain comes to a complete stop.
7. Push the chain brake lever until it clicks to the LOCKED position (toward the chain bar)

WARNING Never attempt to lock the trigger in the ON position.

Proper Cutting Stance

• WARNING Always use the proper cutting  stance described in this section. Never kneel when using the chainsaw. Kneeling could result in loss of stability and control of the chainsaw, resulting in serious personal injury.
• Weight should be balanced with both feet on solid ground. Keep left arm with elbow locked in a “straight arm” position to withstand any kickback force.
• Your body should always be to the left of the chain line.
• Thumb should be on underside of front handle.

Basic Cutting Procedure
Practice cutting a few small logs on a sawhorse or cradle using the following technique to get the “feel” of using the saw before you begin a major sawing operation. the saw froper stance in front of the wood,

• Squeeze the switch trigger 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 are cutting. maintain a steady speed.
• Allow the chain to cut for you; exert only light down- ward pressure. If you force the cut, damage to the bar, chain, or unit can result.
• Release the switch trigger 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 cut.

Work Area Precautions

• Cut only wood or materials made from wood, no sheet metal, no plastics, no masonry, no non-wood building materials. •Never allow children to operate the saw. Allow no person to use this chainsaw who has not read this Operator’s Manual or received adequate instructions for the safe and proper use of this chainsaw. •When blocking a tree, keep everyone : helpers, bystanders, children, and animals – a safe distance from the cutting area. During blocking operations, the safe distance should be a least twice the height of the largest trees in the blocking area. Trees should not be blocked 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 line,
• Do not operate a chainsaw on a ladder, rooftop, or other unstable support.
• Do not cut above shoulder height, as a saw held
• 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.
• Check work area for hazards such as bees, rodents, snakes, etc., that may live in trees or brush.

Blocking Trees

Hazardous Conditions
When blocking (removing sections from a standing tree) a tree, it is important that you follow these warnings and instructions to prevent possible serious injury.

WARNING Do not block trees during periods of high  wind or heavy precipitation.
Wait until the hazardous weather has ended.
Closely check for broken or dead branches, which could fall while cutting and do not cut near buildings or electrical wires if you do not know the direction of tree fall. Do not cut at night or during bad weather conditions, such as rain, snow, or strong winds, which can reduce visibility and control of the chainsaw. If the tree you are blocking makes contact with any utility line, you should discontinue use of the chainsaw and immediately notify the utility company. Failure to follow these instructions could result in death or serious personal injury.
These basic blocking techniques are not intended to substitute for the judgment of an experienced professional. Your circumstance may require
exercise good professional judgment and discretion when evaluating how to safely complete a cutting task.

• 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 backcourt 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!
• Blocking a tree – When bucking and blocking operations are being performed by two or more persons, at the same time, the blocking operation should be separated from the bucking operation by a distance of at least twice the height of the tree being blocked. Trees should not be blocked 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 line, the utility company should be
• Before felling is started, consider the force and direction of the wind, the lean and balance of the tree, and the location of large limbs.
• Remove dirt, stones, loose bark, nails, staples, and wire from the tree where felling cuts are to be made.
• Notched Undercut (a notch cut in a tree that directs the tree’s fall). Cut a notch about 1/3 the diameter of the tree, perpendicular to the direction of fall. Make the cuts of the notch 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 notch before the upper cut.

WARNING Never cut through to the notch when making a blackout. The hinge controls the fall of the tree, this is the section of wood between the notch and blackout. Never position yourself directly behind the trunk of a falling tree. There is a risk that the trunk may split and come back towards the operator.

• Blackout (the final cut in a tree blocking operation  made on the opposite side of the tree from the notching undercut). The blackout is always made level and horizontal, and at a minimum of 50 mm above the horizontal cut of the notch.
• Never cut through to the notch. Always leave a band of wood between the notch and backcourt (approximately 50 mm or 1/10 the diameter of the tree). This is called “hinge” or “hinge wood.” It controls the fall of the tree and prevents slipping or twisting or shoot back of the tree off the stump.
• on large diameter trees, stop the back cut before it is deep enough for the tree to either fall or settle back on the stump. Then insert soft wooden or plastic wedges into the cut so they do not touch the chain. The wedges can be driven in, little by little, to help jack the tree over.
• As the tree starts to fall, stop the chainsaw and put it down immediately. Be alert for overhead limbs or branches that may fall and watch your footing.

Pruning

WARNING Do not overreach and do not cut above shoulder height. Failure to
do so could result in serious personal injury. If you are unable to follow these instructions, use a different tool such as a pole pruner.

Pruning is trimming limbs from a live tree.

• Work slowly, keeping both hands on the chainsaw with a firm grip. Always make sure your footing is 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 shoulder height as a saw held higher is difficult to control against kickback. Never position yourself under the branch you are cutting and watch for falling branches.
• When pruning trees it is important not to make the finishing cut next to the main limb or trunk until you have cut off the limb further out to reduce the weight. This prevents stripping the bark from the main member.
• Under buck the branch 1/3 through for your first cut.
• Your second cut should over buck to drop the branch off.
• Now make your finishing cut smoothly and neatly against the main member so the bark will grow back to seal the wound.

Spring poles
WARNING Spring poles are dangerous and could strike the operator, causing the operator to lose control of the chainsaw. This could result in severe or fatal injury to the operator.

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.

Transporting Saw
Before transporting, always:

1. Lock the chain brake by pushing hand guard/chain brake forward.
2. Remove the battery pack
3. Place the cover over the guide bar.
4. Hold the saw by the top handle with the bar pointing backwards.

TROUBLESHOOTING

MAINTENANCE

WARNING To reduce the risk of injury, always unplug the charger and remove the battery pack from the charger or tool before performing any maintenance. Never disassemble the tool, battery pack or charger. Contact a MILWAUKEE® service facility for ALL repairs.

Maintaining Tool

1. Perform a daily functional test of the chain brake, ensuring:
2. the lock-off tab springs back and prevents the trigger from being pressed,
3. the hand guard/chain brake snaps into position with an audible click, and
4. the tool does not start when the chain brake is locked, and the variable speed trigger is pressed.
5. Inspect the brake band, drive sprocket, and chain catch for damage.

Keep your tool, battery pack and charger in good repair by adopting a regular maintenance program. Inspect your tool for issues such as undue noise, misalignment or binding of moving parts, breakage of parts, or any other condition that may affect the tool operation. Return the tool, battery pack, and charger to a MILWAUKEE® service facility for repair. After six months to one year, depending on use, return the tool, battery pack and charger to a MILWAUKEE® service facility for inspection.
If the tool does not start or operate at full power with a fully charged battery pack, clean the contacts on the battery pack. If the tool still does not work properly, return the tool, charger and battery pack, to a MILWAUKEE® service facility for repairs.

Sharpening the Saw Chain
WARNING Improper chain sharpening increases the potential of kickback. Failure to replace or repair damaged chain can cause serious injury.
The saw chain is very sharp, always wear protective gloves when performing maintenance to the chain.

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

• Wear gloves for protection. Properly tension the chain prior to sharpening. Refer to Chain Tension section earlier in this manual. Do all of your filing at the mid-point of the bar.

• Use a 4 mm diameter round file and holder. Keep the file level with the top plate of the tooth. Do not let the file dip or rock.
  Using light but firm pressure, stroke towards the front corner of the tooth.

• Lift file away from the steel on each return stroke. Put a few firm strokes on every tooth. File all left hand cutters in one direction. Then move to the other side and file the right hand cutters in the opposite direction. Occasionally remove filings from the file with a wire brush.

Top Plate Filing Angle

• CORRECT 25° – File holders are marked with guide plate angle.
• LESS THAN 25° – For Cross Cutting.
• MORE THAN 25° – Feathered Edge Dulls Quickly.

Side Plate Angle

• CORRECT – 80° Produced automatically if correct diameter file is used in file holder.
• HOOK – “Grabs” and dulls quickly. Increases potential of KICKBACK. Results from using a file with diameter too small, or file held too low.
• BACKWARD SLOPE – Needs too much feed pressure, causes excessive wear to bar and chain. Results from using a file with diameter too large, or file held too high.

Depth Gauge Clearance

• The depth checking the depth gauge clearances.
• Every time the chain is filed, check the depth gauge clearance

Use a flat file and a depth gauge jointer to lower all gauges uniformly. Depth gauge jointers are available in 0.5 mm to 0.9 mm. Use a 0.63 mm depth gauge jointer. After lowering each depth gauge, restore original shape by rounding the front. Be careful not to damage
adjoining drive links with the edge of the file. Depth gauges must be adjusted with the flat file in the same direction the adjoining cutter was filed with the round file. Use care not to contact cutter face with flat file when adjusting depth gauges.

Guide Bar Maintenance
guide bar from bottom to top 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
A bar with any of the following faults should be replaced.

• Bent guide bar.
• Cracked or broken rails.
• Spread rails.

Lubricate guide bars with a sprocket at their tip weekly. Using a grease syringe, lubricate weekly in the lubricating hole. Turn the guide bar and check that the lubrication holes and bar rails are free from impurities.

Cleaning

WARNING To reduce the risk of personal injury and damage, never immerse your tool, battery pack or charger in liquid or allow a liquid to flow inside them.

After every few hours of use:

• Remove the drive cover, guide bar and chain, and clean thoroughly using a soft bristle brush.
• Ensure oiling holes on bar is clear of debris.
• Blow air through the chain brake cleanout to clean debris from under the brake cover.
• Inspect the brake band. Replace it if damaged.
• When replacing dull chains with sharp chains, it is good practice to flip the guide bar from bottom to
• Clean dust and debris from vents.
• Keep handles clean. dry and free of oil or grease
• Use only mild soap and a damp cloth to clean, since certain cleaning agents and solvents are harmful to plastics and other insulated parts. Some of these include petrol, turpentine, lacquer thinner, paint thinner, chlorinated cleaning solvents, ammonia and household detergents containing ammonia.
• Never use flammable or combustible solvents around tools.

Repairs

• For repairs, return the tool, battery pack and charger to the nearest authorized service center.

STORAGE

• Always lightly oil the chain when storing to prevent rust. Always empty the oil tank when storing to prevent leak-age. Place the cover over the guide bar.

ACCESSORIES

WARNING
Use only recommended accessories. Others may be hazardous.
For a complete listing of accessories, go online to milwaukeetool.com.au/milwaukeetool.co.nz or  contact a distributor.

WARRANTY – AUSTRALIA and NEW ZEALAND

Please refer to Australian and New Zealand warranty supplied with tool. This warranty applies only to product sold by authorised dealers in Australia and New Zealand.

SERVICE – AUSTRALIA and NEW ZEALAND

MILWAUKEE® prides itself in producing a premium quality product that is Nothing But Heavy DutyTM. Your satisfaction with our products is very important to us! If you encounter any problems with the operation of this tool, please contact your authorised MILWAUKEE® dealer.
For a list of MILWAUKEE® dealers, guarantee or service agents please contact MILWAUKEE® Customer Service or visit our website.
(Australia Toll Free Telephone Number 1300 645 928)
(New Zealand Toll Free Telephone Number 0800 645 928) or visit milwaukeetool.com.au/milwaukeetool.co.nz.

Milwaukee Electric Tool Corporation
13135 West Lisbon Road, Brookfield, Wisconsin U.S.A. 53005
Milwaukee Tool (Australia)
26 – 40 Nina Link, Dandenong South,
Victoria, 3175, Australia
Milwaukee Tool (New Zealand)
274 Church Street, Penrose,
Auckland, 1061, New Zealand
DESIGNED BY MILWAUKEE ELECTRIC TOOL CORP.
PROFESSIONALLY MADE IN CHINA
PRINTED IN CHINA

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