Working With The Chain Saw - Makita UC3550AP Instruction Manual

NOTE:
• When the chain saw is used for the first time, it
may take up to two minutes for the saw chain
oil to begin its lubricating effect upon the saw
mechanism. Run the saw without load until it
does so (see "CHECKS ").
CHECKS
Before starting work, carry out the following checks:
Checking the chain tension
WARNING:
• Always withdraw the mains plug before check-
ing the chain tension, and wear safety gloves.
(For nut models)
► Fig.16: 1. Loosen 2. Tighten 3. Chain adjusting
screw 4. Guide bar 5. Saw chain
(For lever models)
► Fig.17: 1. Loosen 2. Tighten 3. Adjusting dial
4. Guide bar 5. Saw chain
Make sure the saw chain fits snugly against the lower
side of the bar (see circle).
Check the chain tension frequently, as new chains are
subject to elongation.
Excessively high tension of saw chain may cause
breakage of saw chain, wear of the guide bar and
breakage of the adjusting dial.
A chain which is too loose can jump off the bar, and
therefore presents an accident risk.
If the chain is too loose: Refer to the section titled
"Adjusting saw chain tension" and adjust the saw chain
tension again.
Checking the switch action
CAUTION:
Before plugging in the tool, always
check to see that the switch trigger actuates properly
and returns to the "OFF" position when released.
To prevent the switch trigger from being accidentally
pulled, a lock-off button is provided.
To start the tool, depress the lock-off button and pull the
switch trigger. Release the switch trigger to stop.
Do not pull the switch trigger hard without depressing
the lock-off button. This may cause switch breakage.
Checking the chain brake
NOTE:
• If the chain saw fails to start, check whether the
chain brake is released. To release the chain
brake, pull the hand guard backwards firmly until
you feel it engage.
► Fig.18: 1. Front hand guard 2. Lock 3. Unlock
► Fig.19: 1. Front hand guard 2. Unlock 3. Lock
Check the chain brake as follows:
1. Hold the chain saw with both hands when switch-
ing it on. Hold the rear handle with your right hand,
the front handle with your left. Make sure that the
bar and the chain do not contact with any object.
2. First press the lock-off button, then the switch
trigger. The saw chain starts immediately.
3. Press the front hand guard forwards using the
back of your hand. Make sure that the saw chain
comes to an immediate standstill.
CAUTION:
• If the saw chain does not stop immediately,
do not use the saw under any circumstances.
Consult Makita authorized service centers.
Checking the run-down brake
Switch on the chain saw.
Release the switch trigger completely. Make sure the
saw chain comes to a standstill within a second.
CAUTION:
• If the saw chain does not stop immediately,
do not use the saw under any circumstances.
Consult Makita authorized service centers.
Checking the chain oiler
Before starting work, check the oil level in the tank, and
the oil delivery.
The oil level can be seen in the oil level sight shown in
the figure.
► Fig.20: 1. Oil level sight
Check the oil delivery as follows:
Start the chain saw.
With the saw running, hold the saw chain approximately
15 cm above a tree trunk or the ground. If lubrication is
adequate, the oil spray will produce a light oil trace.
Observe the wind direction, and do not expose yourself
to the oil spray unnecessarily.
CAUTION:
• If an oil trace is not formed, do not use the
saw. The lifespan of the chain will otherwise be
reduced. Check the oil level. Clean the oil feed
groove and the oil feed hole in the bar (refer to
"MAINTENANCE ").
Adjusting the chain lubrication
► Fig.21
You can adjust the oil pump feed rate with the adjusting
screw.

WORKING WITH THE CHAIN SAW

CAUTION:
• Always use a front handle and rear handle and
firmly hold the tool by both front handle and rear
handle during operations.
• Always secure the timber to be cut, otherwise
the cut fragments may cause personal injury.
15 ENGLISH