Checking The Chain Tension; Safety Chain Brake; Engaging Chain Brake - Makita DCS 34 Owner's And Safety Manual

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Checking the chain tension

The tension of the chain is correct if the chain rests against
the bottom side of the guide bar and can still be easily turned
by hand.
While doing so the chain brake must be released.
Check the chain tension frequently - new chains tend to get
longer during use!
When checking the chain tension the engine must be switched
off.
NOTE:
It is recommended to use 2-3 chains alternatively.
In order to guarantee uniform wear of the guide bar the bar
should be turned over whenever replacing the chain.
Chain brake
The DCS 34 comes with an inertia chain brake as standard
equipment. If kickback occurs due to contact of the guide bar
tip with wood (see SAFETY PRECAUTIONS, pages 5, 9, 10),
the chain brake will stop the chain through inertia activation if
the kickback is strong enough.
The chain will stop within a fraction of a second.
The chain brake is installed to block the saw chain before
starting the engine and to stop it immediately in case of
an kickback emergency.
Engaging the chain brake
If the kickback is strong enough the sudden acceleration of
the guide bar combined with the inertia of the hand guard (1)
will automatically actuate the chain brake.
To engage the chain brake manually, simply push the hand
guard (1) forward (towards the tip of the saw) with your left
hand (arrow 1).
Releasing the chain brake
Pull the hand guard (1) towards you (arrow 2) until you feel it
catch. The brake is now released.
(braking)