Portland 64497 - Electric 14" Chain Saw Manual

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Read this material before using this product. Failure to do so can result in serious injury. SAVE THIS MANUAL.

General power tool Safety Warnings

Read all safety warnings and all instructions.
Failure to follow the warnings and instructions may result in electric shock, fire and/or serious injury.
Save all warnings and instructions for future reference.
The term 'power tool' in the warnings refers to your mains-operated (corded) power tool.

Work Area Safety

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

1. Keep all parts of the body away from the saw chain when the chain saw is operating. Before you start the chain saw, make sure the saw chain is not contacting anything. A moment of inattention while operating chain saws may cause entanglement of your clothing or body with the saw chain.
2. Always hold the chain saw with your right hand on the rear handle and your left hand on the front handle. Holding the chain saw with a reversed hand configuration increases the risk of personal injury and should never be done.
3. Hold the power tool 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 power tool "live" and could give the operator an electric shock.
4. Wear safety glasses and hearing protection. Further protective equipment for head, hands, legs and feet is recommended. Adequate protective clothing will reduce personal injury by flying debris or accidental contact with the saw chain.
5. Do not operate a chain saw in a tree. Operation of a chain saw while up in a tree may result in personal injury.
6. Always keep proper footing and operate the chain saw only when standing on fixed, secure and level surface. Slippery or unstable surfaces such as ladders may cause a loss of balance or control of the chain saw.
7. When cutting a limb that is under tension be alert for spring back. When the tension in the wood fibres is released the spring loaded limb may strike the operator and/ or throw the chain saw out of control.
8. Use extreme caution when cutting brush and saplings. The slender material may catch the saw chain and be whipped toward you or pull you off balance.
9. Carry the chain saw by the front handle with the chain saw switched off and away from your body. When transporting or storing the chain saw always fit the guide bar cover. Proper handling of the chain saw will reduce the likelihood of accidental contact with the moving saw chain.
10. Follow instructions for lubricating, chain tensioning and changing accessories. Improperly tensioned or lubricated chain may either break or increase the chance for kickback.
11. Keep handles dry, clean, and free from oil and grease. Greasy, oily handles are slippery causing loss of control.
12. Cut wood only. Do not use chain saw for purposes not intended. For example: do not use chain saw for cutting plastic, masonry or non-wood building materials. Use of the chain saw for operations different than intended could result in a hazardous situation.
13. 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 chain saw user, you should take several steps to keep your cutting jobs free from accident or injury. Kickback is the result of tool misuse and/ or incorrect operating procedures or conditions and can be avoided by taking proper precautions as given below:
    1. Maintain a firm grip, with thumbs and fingers encircling the chain saw 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 chain saw.
       
       
    2. Do not overreach and do not cut above shoulder height. This helps prevent unintended tip contact and enables better control of the chain saw in unexpected situations.
    3. Only use replacement bars and chains specified by the manufacturer. Incorrect replacement bars and chains may cause chain breakage and/or kickback.
    4. Follow the manufacturer's sharpening and maintenance instructions for the saw chain. Decreasing the depth gauge height can lead to increased kickback.
14. Maintain labels and nameplates on the tool. These carry important safety information. If unreadable or missing, contact Harbor Freight Tools for a replacement.
15. Avoid unintentional starting. Prepare to begin work before turning on the tool.
16. Do not leave the tool unattended when it is plugged into an electrical outlet. Turn off the tool, and unplug it from its electrical outlet before leaving.
17. This product is not a toy. Keep it out of reach of children.
18. People with pacemakers should consult their physician(s) before use. Electromagnetic fields in close proximity to heart pacemaker could cause pacemaker interference or pacemaker failure. In addition, people with pacemakers should:
    • Avoid operating alone.
    • Do not use with Trigger locked on.
    • Properly maintain and inspect to avoid electrical shock.
    • Properly ground power cord. Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFCI) should also be implemented – it prevents sustained electrical shock.
19. The warnings, precautions, and instructions discussed in this instruction manual cannot cover all possible conditions and situations that may occur. It must be understood by the operator that common sense and caution are factors which cannot be built into this product, but must be supplied by the operator.

Grounded tools: tools with three prong plugs

1. Tools marked with "Grounding Required" have a three wire cord and three prong grounding plug. The plug must be connected to a properly grounded outlet. If the tool should electrically malfunction or break down, grounding provides a low resistance path to carry electricity away from the user, reducing the risk of electric shock. (See 3-prong plug and Outlet.)
2. The grounding prong in the plug is connected through the green wire inside the cord to the grounding system in the tool. The green wire in the cord must be the only wire connected to the tool's grounding system and must never be attached to an electrically "live" terminal. (See 3-prong plug and Outlet.)
3. The tool must be plugged into an appropriate outlet, properly installed and grounded in accordance with all codes and ordinances. The plug and outlet should look like those in the preceding illustration. (See 3-prong plug and Outlet.)

Symbology

	Double Insulated
	Intertek Testing Services NA, Inc.
	Volts
	Alternating Current
	Amperes
n0 xxxx/min.	No Load Revolutions per Minute (RPM)
	WARNING marking concerning Risk of Eye Injury. Wear ANSI-approved safety goggles with side shields.
	Read the manual before set-up and/or use.
	WARNING marking concerning Risk of Fire. Do not cover ventilation ducts. Keep flammable objects away.
	WARNING marking concerning Risk of Electric Shock. Properly connect power cord to appropriate outlet.

Specifications

Note: This electric chain saw is for cutting small logs and for lighter weight trimming jobs. A more powerful chain saw may be needed for heavy duty use.

Guide Bar and Saw Chain installation and Adjustment

TO PREVENT SERIOUS INJURY FROM ACCIDENTAL OPERATION:
Make sure that the trigger is in the off-position and unplug the tool from its electrical outlet before performing any procedure in this section.
The Chain Saw is supplied with the Chain Guide Bar and Saw Chain pre-installed and no assembly is required. Before first use and before each use thereafter, check the Saw Chain tension.
Note: New Saw Chains often need to be tensioned several times during first use. Check a new Saw Chain's tension often when first using. Follow the directions in the following sections for checking and adjusting Saw Chain tension and for replacing the Saw Chain when necessary.

Checking Saw Chain tension

1. Before using, check the Saw Chain tension.
2. While wearing heavy-duty gloves, use your index finger and thumb to carefully grab the Saw Chain in the middle section under the Chain Guide Bar.
3. Pull the Saw Chain away from the Guide Bar.
4. The Saw Chain should snap back against the Guide Bar. The Chain should fit snugly in the groove of the Chain Guide Bar, yet you should still be able to slide the chain along the Chain Guide Bar by hand.
5. There should be no sagging between the Guide Bar and Saw Chain on the underside of the Guide Bar.

Adjusting Saw Chain tension

1. Remove the Nut Cover (46) and loosen the Nut (28) on the Drive Cover (26).
2. Pull up on the Guide Bar Nose and hold it up while making the tension adjustment.
3. Turn the Tension Screw (31) clockwise, until the Saw Chain makes contact along the bottom of the Chain Guide Bar. Turn the Tension Screw 1/4 turn more.
4. Continue to hold the Guide Bar Nose up while tightening the Nut.
5. Check the Saw Chain tension again following steps 2 through 5 under Checking Saw Chain Tension above. If needed, repeat the adjusting steps to achieve the correct tension.
6. When adjustment is complete replace the Nut Cover.

Operating instructions

Read the ENTIRE IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION section at the beginning of this manual including all text under subheadings therein before set up or use of this product.

Workpiece and Work Area Set Up

1. Designate a work area that is clean and well lit. The work area must not allow access by children or pets to prevent distraction and injury.
2. Route the extension cord along a safe route to reach the work area without creating a tripping hazard or exposing the extension cord to possible damage. The extension cord must reach the work area with enough extra length to allow free movement while working. Position the cord so that it will not be caught on branches and the like during cutting.
3. Secure the extension cord by snapping it in the Power Cord Clip so there will be no tension on the connection between the Power Cord and the extension cord.
4. There must not be objects, such as utility lines, nearby that will present a hazard while working.
5. Attach to outlet using a Residual Current Device or Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFCI) with a tripping current of 30 mA or less.
6. A first-time user should, as a minimum practice, cut logs on a saw-horse or cradle before cutting down trees.

Instructions concerning the proper techniques for basic felling, limbing, and cross-cutting
Felling a tree
When bucking and felling operations are being performed by two or more persons at the same time, the felling operations should be separated from the bucking operation by a distance of at least twice the height of the tree being felled. Trees should not be felled in a manner that would endanger any person, strike any utility line or cause any property damage. If the tree does make contact with any utility line, the company should be notified immediately. The chain saw operator should keep on the uphill side of the terrain as the tree is likely to roll or slide downhill after it is felled. An escape path should be planned and cleared as necessary before cuts are started. The escape path should extend back and diagonally to the rear of the expected line of fall as illustrated in Figure E. Before felling is started, consider the natural lean of the tree, the location of larger branches and the wind direction to judge which way the tree will fall. Remove dirt, stones, loose bark, nails, staples and wire from the tree.

Notching Undercut
Make the notch 1/3 the diameter of the tree, perpendicular to the direction of falls as illustrated in Figure F. Make the lower horizontal notching cut first. This will help to avoid pinching either the saw chain or the guide bar when the second notch is being made.

Felling Back Cut
Make the felling back cut at least 2 inches higher than the horizontal notching cut as illustrated in Figure F. Keep the felling back cut parallel to the horizontal notching cut. Make the felling back cut so enough wood is left to act as a hinge. The hinge wood keeps the tree from twisting and falling in the wrong direction. Do not cut through the hinge. As the felling gets close to the hinge, the tree should begin to fall. If there is any chance that the tree may not fall in desired direction or it may rock back and bind the saw chain, stop cutting before the felling back cut is complete and use wedges of wood, plastic or aluminium to open the cut and drop the tree along the desired line of fall. When the tree begins to fall remove the chain saw from the cut, stop the motor, put the chain saw down, then use the retreat path planned. Be alert for overhead limbs falling and watch your footing.

Limbing a tree
Limbing is removing the branches from a fallen tree. When limbing leave larger lower limbs to support the log off the ground. Remove the small limbs in one cut as illustrated in. Branches under tension should be cut from the bottom up to avoid binding the chain saw.

Bucking a Log
Bucking is cutting a log into lengths. It is important to make sure your footing is firm and your weight is evenly distributed on both feet. When possible, the log should be raised and supported by the use of limbs, logs or chocks. Follow the simple directions for easy cutting. When the log is supported along its entire length as illustrated in Figure H, it is cut from the top (overbuck).

When the log is supported on one end, as illustrated in Figure I, cut 1/3 the diameter from the underside (underbuck). Then make the finished cut by overbucking to meet the first cut.

When the log is supported on both ends, as illustrated in Figure J, cut 1/3 the diameter from the top (overbuck). Then make the finished cut by underbucking the lower 2/3 to meet the first cut.

When bucking on a slope always stand on the uphill side of the log, as illustrated in Figure K. When "cutting through", to maintain complete control release the cutting pressure near the end of the cut without relaxing your grip on the chain saw handles. Don't let the chain contact the ground. After completing the cut, wait for the saw chain to stop before you move the chain saw. Always stop the motor before moving from tree to tree.

General Operating instructions

1. Before first use and before each use thereafter, remove the Oil Tank Cap. Inspect the Cap Gasket for damage. Fill the oil reservoir to just below fill plug with motor oil (not included). Refer to Specifications Chart for oil type. Then replace the Oil Tank Cap. Oil is automatically applied to the Saw Chain during operation.
2. Make sure that the Trigger is in the off-position, then connect the outdoor rated extension cord (not included) to the Power Cord. Make sure the electrical cord is away from the cutting area.
3. Grasp the Handles with both hands. Always grip the handle with the thumb and fingers encircling the handle as shown.
   
   Note: Front Handle Guard not shown.
4. Stand in front of the wood to be cut with your feet firmly in place.
5. Push the Lockout Switch to the left or right, then squeeze and hold the Trigger. With the Chain Saw running, you may release pressure on the Lockout Switch. Releasing the Trigger will stop the motor.
   NOTE: The Trigger cannot be activated unless the Lockout Switch is depressed.
   
   To prevent serious injury and death from kickback: Do not touch the Guide Bar Nose to the wood.
6. When the Chain Saw reaches full speed, begin cutting with a light, downward pressure against the bottom mid-section of the Saw Chain. Allow the Saw Chain to cut at its own rate. Applying too much pressure can damage the tool.
   
   When cutting loose, round wood stock, place the wood stock on a sawhorse, in a cradle, or use a timberjack (all sold separately) to avoid grabbing and throw back.
7. To prevent accidents, turn off the tool and unplug it after use.
8. When the Saw has cooled completely, clean thoroughly and cover the Chain Guide Bar with the Chain Guide Bar Sheath. Store the tool indoors out of children's reach.

Maintenance and Servicing

Procedures not specifically explained in this manual must be performed only by a qualified technician.

TO PREVENT SERIOUS INJURY FROM ACCIDENTAL OPERATION: Make sure that the trigger is in the off-position and unplug the tool from its electrical outlet before performing any procedure in this section.
TO PREVENT SERIOUS INJURY FROM TOOL FAILURE: Do not use damaged equipment. if abnormal noise or vibration occurs, have the problem corrected before further use.

Cleaning, Maintenance, and Lubrication

1. BEFORE EACH USE, inspect the general condition of the tool. Check for:
   • loose hardware
   • misalignment or binding of moving parts
   • damaged cord/electrical wiring
   • cracked or broken parts
   • dull or damaged Saw Chain
   • any other condition that may affect its safe operation.
2. BEFORE FIRST USE AND BEFORE EACH USE THEREAFTER, make sure the Oil Tank is filled with motor oil (not included). Refer to Specifications Chart for oil type.
3. IF THE SAW CHAIN BECOMES LOOSE, adjust the Saw Chain tension as described under Adjusting Saw Chain Tension.
4. PERIODICALLY OR WHEN REPLACING SAW CHAIN, turn the Chain Guide Bar over to distribute the wear on it. Replace the Guide Bar when bent, cracked, or when the Saw Chain moves excessively from side to side on the Guide Bar due to wear.
5. AFTER USE, wipe the outside surface of the Chain Saw with a clean, dry cloth. If necessary use a mild detergent. Do not use solvents. Do not immerse this tool in liquid.
6. 
   TO PREVENT SERIOUS INJURY: if the supply cord of this power tool is damaged, it must be replaced only by a qualified service technician.

Sharpening/replacing the Saw Chain

TO PREVENT SERIOUS INJURY: Wear heavy-duty work gloves when handling the Saw Chain.

1. For smooth and safe operation, always keep the Saw Chain cutters sharp.
2. Have the cutters sharpened by a qualified technician when you notice any of the following symptoms:
   1. The sawdust becomes powder-like.
   2. You can't make the cut without extra force.
   3. The Chain Saw does not cut straight.
   4. Vibration increases.
3. A Saw Chain that is damaged or too worn to be restored to a useable condition by sharpening will need to be replaced. Refer to Replacing the Saw Chain.

Cleaning, Maintenance, and Lubrication Schedule
Note: This maintenance schedule is intended solely as a general guide. If performance decreases or if equipment operates unusually, check systems immediately. The maintenance needs of each piece of equipment will differ depending on factors such as duty cycle, temperature, air quality, and other factors. If you have doubts about your ability to safely service this tool, have a qualified technician service the equipment instead.
Periodic Maintenance or When replacing Saw Chain:

1. Clean and lubricate Chain Guide Bar and turn over.
2. Deburr Guide Bar as needed.
3. Check Chain Sprocket for wear or damage.

Monthly Maintenance:
Clean Chain Oil Tank.

If Worn or Damaged:

1. Replace Chain Guide Bar if it becomes worn, bent or damaged.
2. Sharpen or replace Saw Chain.

PLEASE READ THE FOLLOWING CAREFULLY
THE MANUFACTURER AND/OR DISTRIBUTOR HAS PROVIDED THE PARTS LIST AND ASSEMBLY DIAGRAM IN THIS MANUAL AS A REFERENCE TOOL ONLY. NEITHER THE MANUFACTURER OR DISTRIBUTOR MAKES ANY REPRESENTATION OR WARRANTY OF ANY KIND TO THE BUYER THAT HE OR SHE IS QUALIFIED TO MAKE ANY REPAIRS TO THE PRODUCT, OR THAT HE OR SHE IS QUALIFIED TO REPLACE ANY PARTS OF THE PRODUCT. IN FACT, THE MANUFACTURER AND/OR DISTRIBUTOR EXPRESSLY STATES THAT ALL REPAIRS AND PARTS REPLACEMENTS SHOULD BE UNDERTAKEN BY CERTIFIED AND LICENSED TECHNICIANS, AND NOT BY THE BUYER. THE BUYER ASSUMES ALL RISK AND LIABILITY ARISING OUT OF HIS OR HER REPAIRS TO THE ORIGINAL PRODUCT OR REPLACEMENT PARTS THERETO, OR ARISING OUT OF HIS OR HER INSTALLATION OF REPLACEMENT PARTS THERETO.

Parts List

Record product's Serial number Here:
Note: if product has no serial number, record month and year of purchase instead.
Note: Some parts are listed and shown for illustration purposes only, and are not available individually as replacement parts. Specify UPC 193175354846 when ordering parts.

Assembly Diagram

Limited 90 Day Warranty

Harbor Freight Tools Co. makes every effort to assure that its products meet high quality and durability standards, and warrants to the original purchaser that this product is free from defects in materials and workmanship for the period of 90 days from the date of purchase. This warranty does not apply to damage due directly or indirectly, to misuse, abuse, negligence or accidents, repairs or alterations outside our facilities, criminal activity, improper installation, normal wear and tear, or to lack of maintenance. We shall in no event be liable for death, injuries to persons or property, or for incidental, contingent, special or consequential damages arising from the use of our product. Some states do not allow the exclusion or limitation of incidental or consequential damages, so the above limitation of exclusion may not apply to you. THIS WARRANTY IS EXPRESSLY IN LIEU OF ALL OTHER WARRANTIES, EXPRESS OR IMPLIED, INCLUDING THE WARRANTIES OF MERCHANTABILITY AND FITNESS. To take advantage of this warranty, the product or part must be returned to us with transportation charges prepaid. Proof of purchase date and an explanation of the complaint must accompany the merchandise. If our inspection verifies the defect, we will either repair or replace the product at our election or we may elect to refund the purchase price if we cannot readily and quickly provide you with a replacement. We will return repaired products at our expense, but if we determine there is no defect, or that the defect resulted from causes not within the scope of our warranty, then you must bear the cost of returning the product. This warranty gives you specific legal rights and you may also have other rights which vary from state to state.