Milwaukee M18 FUEL Manual

WORK AREA SAFETY

• Keep work area clean and well lit. Cluttered or dark areas invite accidents.
• 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.
• 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. Unmodified plugs and matching outlets will 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 ground fault circuit interrupter (GFCI) protected supply. Use of an GFCI 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 the influence of drugs, alcohol or medication. 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 is in the off-position before connecting to power source and/or battery pack, picking up or carrying the tool. Carrying power tools with your finger on the switch or energizing 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 jewelry. Keep your hair and clothing away from moving parts. Loose clothes, jewelry 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 turn it on and off. 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 may affect the power tool's operation. If damaged, 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 for operations different from those intended could 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

• Recharge only with the charger specified by the manufacturer. A charger that is suitable for one type of battery pack may create a risk of fire when used with another battery pack.
• Use power tools only with specifically designated battery packs. Use of any other battery packs may create a risk of injury and fire.
• 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 may cause burns or a fire.
• Under abusive conditions, liquid may be ejected from the battery; avoid contact. If contact accidentally occurs, flush with water. If liquid contacts 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 265°F (130°C) 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

• Have your power tool serviced by a qualified repair person using only identical replacement parts. 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 CHAINSAW
General chain saw safety warnings:

• 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.
• 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.
• Hold the chain saw by insulated gripping surfaces only, because the saw chain may contact hidden wiring. Saw chains contacting a "live" wire may make exposed metal parts of the chain saw "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 equipment will reduce personal injury from flying debris or accidental contact with the saw chain.
• Do not operate a chain saw in a tree, on a ladder, from a rooftop, or any unstable support. Operation of a chain saw in this manner could result in serious personal injury.
• Always keep proper footing and operate the chain saw only when standing on fixed, secure and level surface. Slippery or unstable surfaces may cause a loss of balance or control of the chain saw.
• 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.
• 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.
• 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.
• 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 chain saw for purposes not intended. For example: do not use chain saw for cutting metal, plastic, masonry or non-wood building materials. Use of the chain saw for operations different than intended could result in a hazardous situation.
• Do not attempt to fell a tree until you have an understanding of the risks and how to avoid them. Serious injury could occur to the operator or bystanders while felling a tree.

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 chain saw misuse and/or incorrect operating procedures or conditions and can be avoided by taking proper precautions as given below:

• 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.
• 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.
• Only use replacement guide bars and saw chains specified by the manufacturer. Incorrect replacement 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 increased kickback.
• Follow all instructions when clearing jammed material, storing or servicing the chain saw. Make sure the switch is off and the battery pack is removed. Unexpected actuation of the chain saw 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.
• 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.
• 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.
• 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 jewelry, 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 an ANSI/CSA hard hat or helmet for impact protection.
• Always wear proper eye protection marked to comply with ANSI Z87.1.
• Always wear hearing protection when operating this equipment.
• 
  To reduce the risk of injury when working in dusty situations, use an OSHA compliant dust extraction solution in accordance with its operating instructions or wear appropriate respiratory protection.
• 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 the influence of alcohol, drugs, or medication.
• Keep all parts of your body away from the saw chain when the unit is running.
• Battery operated units do not have to be plugged into an electrical outlet; therefore, they are always in operating condition. Be aware of possible hazards 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.
• Always use the right product for the application. The chainsaw should be used for cutting wood only. Never use the chainsaw to cut plastic, masonry or non-wood building materials.
• 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.
• Before starting the unit, make sure the saw chain is not contacting any object.
• Do not operate a chainsaw with one hand! Use a firm grip with thumbs and fingers encircling the 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 cut vines and/or small underbrush. The slender material may catch the saw chain and be whipped toward you or pull you off balance. We recommend using hedge trimmers or brush cutters for these operations.
• Do not force the chainsaw. The job can be performed better and safer at the rate for which it was intended.
• Stop the chainsaw before setting it down. Make sure the tool comes to a complete stop before laying it down.
• After each use, clean the machine with a soft dry cloth. Remove any chips, dirt and debris in the battery bay.
• 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 chainsaw, lock the chain brake, remove the battery, place the cover on the bar and chain and store the chainsaw in carrying case.
• Do not adapt a powerhead to a bow guide or use it to power any attachments or devices not listed for the saw.
• 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.
• 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.

• Always use common sense and be cautious when using tools. It is not possible to anticipate every situation that could result in a dangerous out- come. 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.
• Maintain labels and nameplates. These carry important information. If unreadable or missing, contact a MILWAUKEE service facility for a replacement.
• 
  Some dust created by power sanding, sawing, grinding, drilling, and other 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 filter out microscopic particles.

SPECIFICATIONS

Cat. No.: 2727-20
Volts: 18
DC Battery Type : M18™
Charger Type: M18™
RPM : 6600
Chain Speed : 2440 ft/min (12.4 m/s)
Bar Length : 16" / 14"
Cutting Capacity : 15" / 13"
Chain Oil Tank Capacity : 6.7 oz 16"
Replacement Bar : 48-09-3001
14" Replacement Bar : 49-16-2756
Bar Groove Width : 0.043" 16"
Replacement Chain : 49-16-2715
14" Replacement Chain : 49-16-2749
Chain Type : Low Kickback
Chain Pitch : 3/8" 16"
Chain Teeth : 56
14" Chain Teeth : 52
Weight of bare tool with 14" bar & chain : 10.1 lb
Weight with 14" bar, chain, oil, & M18™ HD12.0 battery pack : 13.9 lb
Weight of bare tool with 16" bar & chain : 10.4 lb
Weight with 16" bar, chain, oil, & M18™ HD12.0 battery pack : 14.1 lb
Recommended Ambient Operating Temperature : 0°F to 125°F

SYMBOLOGY

	Volts
	Direct Current
	No Load Revolutions per Minute (RPM)
	Read operator's manual
	Wear eye, hearing, and head protection
	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 50' away during use.
	Wear protective gloves
	Wear non-slip safety footwear
	Chain Brake LOCKED/UNLOCKED
	Chain Oil Reservoir
	Chain Direction
	Chain Tension Adjustment

FUNCTIONAL DESCRIPTION

1. Rear handle
2. Variable speed trigger
3. Lock-off button (not shown)
4. Front handle
5. Hand guard/chain brake
6. Direction of rotation indicator
7. Saw chain

8. Guide bar
9. Guide bar cover
10. Guide bar nuts
11. Chain tensioning screw
12. Drive cover

ASSEMBLY

Recharge only with the charger specified for the battery. For specific charging instructions, read the operator's manual supplied with the 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.

Always remove the battery pack any time the tool is not in use.
To insert the battery, slide the pack into the body of the tool. Make sure it latches securely into place.

Only use accessories specifically recommended for this tool. Others may be hazardous.

Replacing/Adjusting the Saw Chain and Bar

Always remove the battery pack before changing or removing accessories.
Chain is sharp. Always wear protective gloves when handling the chain.
Only use replacement guide bars and saw chains specified by the manufacturer. Incorrect replacement guide bars and saw chains may cause chain breakage and/or kickback. See "Specifications" for acceptable replacement chain and bar.
As saw chains are sharpened during their useful life, they lose some of the low kickback qualities and extra caution should be used.

3. Place the saw on its side, on a flat and clean surface.
4. Remove the drive cover by removing the guide bar nuts using the adjustment tool.
5. Loosen the chain by turning the chain tensioning screw counterclockwise with the adjustment tool.
6. Unloop the chain from the drive hub and the guide bar off of the guide bar bolts.
   
7. 
   Saw chain is sharp. Inspect guide bar for cracks or wear; replace if damaged. Remove the old chain from the guide bar groove.
8. Install the new or sharpened chain around the guide bar in the direction indicated on the saw .
9. Ensure the chain is properly set in the slot around the entire guide bar.
10. Loop the chain around the drive hub and fit the bar around the guide bar bolts.
11. Reinstall the drive cover and turn the bolts clockwise to tighten.
12. Use the adjustment tool to rotate the chain tensioning screw to increase tension (clockwise) until the chain is snug around the guide bar.
13. The tension is correct when the chain snaps back after being pulled 1/8" (3 mm) away from the guide bar. No sag should be visible in the chain.
    
14. Do not over-tighten the chain; excess tightening will cause wear and will reduce the life of the chain and could damage the bar.
15. 
    Remove battery pack and check chain tension frequently during the first two hours of use. New chains can stretch and loosen during initial use.
16. Ensure the guide bar bolts are secure before operating the tool.

Chain Oil

Always remove the battery pack before changing or removing accessories.
Fill oil reservoir with chain oil (not provided) 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 chain oil. The oil will keep the saw chain and guide bar properly lubricated. Never run the saw without 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.
NOTICE: 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 battery to avoid starting the tool.
2. Place the saw on a flat, firm surface, blade side down.
3. Unscrew the oil cap.
4. Carefully fill reservoir with chain oil.
5. Tighten oil cap securely.
6. Periodically check that the saw chain is lubricating 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 thoroughly. Ensure the guide bar sprocket (at the tip) rotates freely.
• If the lubrication system still does not work prop-erly, contact a MILWAUKEE service facility.

Transporting Saw
Before transporting, always:

1. 
   Remove battery to avoid starting the tool.
2. Place the cover over the guide bar.
3. Lock the chain brake by pushing hand guard/chain brake forward.

Storage

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 chainsaw, lock the chain brake, remove the battery, place the cover on the bar and chain and store the chainsaw in carrying case.
Always lightly oil the chain when storing to prevent rust. Always empty the oil tank when storing to prevent leakage. Lock the chain brake, remove battery pack, and place the cover over the guide bar.

OPERATION

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 dangerous. 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.

Wear approved head protection suitable for your application, such as an ANSI/CSA hard hat or helmet for impact protection.
Always wear proper eye protection marked to comply with ANSI Z87.1.
Always wear hearing protection when operating this equipment.
When working in dusty situations, use an OSHA compliant dust extraction solution in accordance with its operating instructions or wear appropriate respiratory protection.
Read and understand all instructions. Failure to follow all instructions listed below may result in electric shock, fire and/or serious personal injury.

• Guard against kickback which can result in severe injury or death. See important safety instructions in Kickback section to avoid the risk of kickback.
• Do not overreach. Do not cut above shoulder height. Make sure your footing is firm. Keep feet apart. Divide your weight evenly on both feet.
• Slippery or unstable surfaces may cause a loss of balance or control of the saw.
• Do not allow familiarity with this product to make you careless. Remember that a careless fraction of a second is sufficient to inflict serious injury.
• Use a firm grip with 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 guide bar.
• Keep elbow of left arm locked so that left arm is straight to withstand kickback. Do not hold chainsaw by hand guard/chain brake.
• 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 a tree, in any awkward position or on a ladder or other unstable surface. You may lose control of saw causing severe injury.
• Felling a tree or cutting a log or 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.

Kickback


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.
• Only use replacement guide bars and saw chains specified by the manufacturer. Incorrect replacement guide bars and saw chains may cause chain breakage and/or kickback. See "Specifications" for acceptable replacement chain and bar.

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

• Keep proper footing and balance at all times.
• Do not cut above shoulder height or overreach when cutting.
• Follow the manufacturer's sharpening and maintenance instructions for the saw chain. Decreasing the depth gauge height can lead to increased kickback.
• 
  Follow all instructions when clearing jammed material, storing or servicing the chainsaw. Make sure the switch is off, chain brake is locked, and the battery pack is removed. Unexpected actuation of the chainsaw while clearing jammed material or servicing may result in serious personal injury.
• 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. Before operating the tool, ensure the chain brake area is clear of any dirt or debris.

Daily Functional Test
Perform a daily functional test of the chain brake, ensuring the:

• Hand guard/chain brake snaps into position with an audible click.
• Lock-off button springs back and prevents the trigger from being pressed.
• Tool does not start when the chain brake is locked, and the trigger is pressed.
• Tool does not have a build up of debris. See "Cleaning" instructions for proper maintenance.
• Inspect the brake band, drive sprocket, and chain catch for damage.
• Check the chain for proper tension and adjust if needed (See "Replacing/Adjusting the Saw Chain and Bar").
• 
  If any of these does not function properly, or is damaged, DO NOT use the saw and return the tool to the nearest authorized service center.

Turning the Tool On/Off


Always be sure of your footing and grip the chainsaw firmly with both hands. 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 to theunlocked 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. Tostop, release the trigger. Hold saw still until chain comes to a complete stop.
7. Push the chain brake lever to thelocked position (toward the chain bar) .

Never attempt to lock the trigger in the ON position.

Proper Cutting Stance

Always use the proper cutting stance described in this section. Never kneel when using the chainsaw, except when felling a tree. Kneeling could result in loss of stability and control of the chainsaw, resulting in serious personal injury.

1. Weight should be balanced with both feet on solid ground.
2. Keep left arm with elbow locked in a "straight arm" position to withstand any kickback force.
3. Your body should always be to the left of the chain line.
4. Thumb should be on underside of handlebar.
   

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 beginning a major sawing operation.

• Take the proper stance in front of the wood with the saw off.
• Squeeze the switch trigger and let the chain acceler-ate to full speed before entering the cut.
• Begin cutting with the saw against the log.
• Keep the unit running the entire time you 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 felling a tree, keep everyone - helpers, by-standers, children, and animals - a safe distance from the cutting area. During felling operations, the safe distance should be a least twice the height of the largest trees in the felling area. During bucking operations, keep a minimum distance of 15 feet between workers. 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 utility company should be notified immediately.
• Always cut with both feet on solid ground to prevent being pulled off balance.
• Do not cut above shoulder height, as a saw held higher is difficult to control against kickback forces.
• 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.

Felling Trees
Hazardous Conditions

Do not fell 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 branches 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.
When felling (cutting down) a tree, it is important that you follow these warnings and instructions to prevent possible serious injury.

• 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 backcut 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!
• Felling a tree - When bucking and felling opera-tions are being performed by two or more persons, at the same time, the felling operation 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 utility company should be notified immediately.
  
• Before any cuts are started, pick your escape route (or routes in case the intended route is blocked); clear the immediate area around the tree and make sure there are no obstructions in your planned path of retreat. Clear paths of safe retreat should extend back and diagonally (45°) to the rear of the planned line of fall. When the tree begins to fall, you should retreat away from the direction of fall along a retreat path and at least 20 feet away from the trunk in case it kicks back over the stump.
• 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. These things influence the direction in which the tree will fall. Do not try to fell a tree along a line different from its natural line of fall.
• The chainsaw operator should keep on the uphill side of the terrain as the tree is likely to roll or slide downhill after it is felled.
• 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 wood off the saw, always make the lower cut of the notch before the upper cut.
  

• Felling Backcut (the final cut in a tree felling operation made on the opposite side of the tree from the notching undercut). The backcut is always made level and horizontal, and at a minimum of 2" above the horizontal cut of the notch.
• Never cut through to the notch. Always leave a band of wood between the notch and backcut (approximately 2" or 1/10 the diameter of the tree). This is called "hinge" or "hingewood". It controls the fall of the tree and prevents slipping or twisting or shootback 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 tree starts to fall, stop the chainsaw and put it down immediately. Retreat along the cleared path, but watch the action in case something falls your way. Be alert for overhead limbs or branches that may fall and watch your footing.

Never cut through to the notch when making a backcut. The hinge controls the fall of the tree, this is the section of wood between the notch and backcut.

Bucking
Bucking is the term used for cutting a fallen tree to the desired log length.

• Always make sure your footing is secure and your weight is distributed evenly on both feet.
• Cut only one log at a time.
• Support small logs on a saw horse or another log while bucking.
• Keep a clear cutting area. Make sure that no objects can contact the guide bar nose and chain during cutting, this can cause kickback.
• Never allow someone to hold the log during cutting.
• Never stabilize log with leg or feet.
  

• When bucking on a slope, always stand on the uphill side of the log. To maintain complete control of the chainsaw when cutting through the log, release the cutting pressure near the end of the cut without relaxing your grip on the chainsaw handles. Do not let the chain contact the ground. After completing the cut, wait for the saw chain to stop before you move the chainsaw. Always stop the motor before moving from tree to tree.
  

• Sometimes it is impossible to avoid pinching (with just standard cutting techniques) or difficult to predict which way a log will settle when cut. To avoid pinching while cutting, rotate or move the log so that the pinch is eliminated.

Bucking Logs Under Stress
When the log is supported along its entire length, it should be cut from the top or overbucking.

When the log is supported on one end, cut 1/3 the diameter from the underside or underbucking. Then make the finishing cut by overbucking to meet the first cut.

As the log is being cut, it will tend to bend. The saw can become pinched or hung in the log if you make the first cut deeper than 1/3 of the diameter of the log. Give special attention to logs under stress to prevent the bar and chain from pinching. When bucking on a slope, always stand on the uphill side of the log. When "cutting through", to maintain complete control of the chainsaw, release the cutting pressure near the end of the cut without relaxing your grip on the chainsaw handles. Do not let the chain contact the ground. After completing the cut, wait for the saw chain to stop before you move the chainsaw. Always stop the motor before moving from tree to tree.

Types of Cutting Used Overbucking (crosscutting)

Begin on the top side of the log with the bottom of the saw against the log; exert light pressure downward. Note that the saw will tend to pull away from you.

Underbucking (crosscutting)

Begin on the under side of the log with the top of the saw against the log; exert light pressure upward. During underbucking, the saw will tend to push back at you. Be prepared for this reaction and hold the saw firmly to maintain control.

Limbing

Never climb into a tree to limb or prune. Do not stand on ladders, platforms, a log, or in any position which can cause you to lose your balance or control of the saw.

Limbing is removing branches from a fallen 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.
• Leave the larger support limbs under the tree to keep the tree off the ground while cutting.
• Limbs should be cut one at a time. Remove the cut limbs from the work area often to help keep the work area clean and safe.
• Branches under tension should be cut from the bot-tom up to avoid binding the chainsaw.
• Keep the tree between you and the chainsaw while limbing. Cut from the side of the tree opposite the branch you are cutting.

Pruning

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 danger-ous. Leave this operation for professionals.
• Do not cut above shoulder height as a saw held higher is difficult to control against kickback.
• 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.
• Underbuck the branch 1/3 through for your first cut.
• Your second cut should overbuck 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.

Springpoles

Springpoles 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.

Freeing a Pinched Saw
Follow all instructions when clearing jammed material, storing, or servicing the tool. Make sure the trigger is off and the battery pack is removed. Unexpected actuation of the tool while clearing jammed material or servicing may result in serious personal injury.
If the chainsaw becomes pinched in the wood:

1. Remove your finger from the trigger.
2. 
   Remove battery to avoid starting the tool.
3. Carefully free the saw from the wood. After it has been removed, carefully inspect the saw for damage before continuing to use it. If the saw is damaged, return the tool to a MILWAUKEE service facility for repairs.

TROUBLESHOOTING

MAINTENANCE

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 battery pack, charger, or tool, except as provided in these instructions. Contact a MILWAUKEE service facility for all other repairs.

Maintaining Tool
Keep this tool, battery pack and charger in good repair by adopting a regular maintenance program. Inspect the 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. Depending on use, periodically have an authorized service facility inspect and maintain the tool, battery, and charger to ensure proper performance.
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.

Chain and Bar
After every few hours of use, remove the drive cover, guide bar and chain and clean thoroughly using a soft bristle brush. Ensure oiling hole on bar is clear of debris. When replacing dull chains with sharp chains it is good practice to flip the guide bar from bottom to top.

Sharpening the Saw Chain

Improper chain sharpening increases the potential of kickback.
Failure to replace or repair a 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 "Replacing/ Adjusting the Saw Chain and Bar" section earlier in this manual. Do all filing at the mid-point of the bar.
  
• Use a 11/64" (4.4 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 30° - File holders are marked with guide marks to align file properly to produce correct top plate angle.
• Less Than 30° - For cross cutting.
• More Than 30° - 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 gauge should be maintained at a clear-ance of.025". Use a depth gauge tool for 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 0.02" to.035" Use a.025" 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
When the guide bar shows signs of wear, flip the 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 with a file as soon as they occur.
A bar with any of the following faults should be replaced.

• Wear inside the bar rails which permits the chain to lay over sideways.
• 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.

NOTICE
Use only identical replacement parts from the manufacturer when replacing parts (e.g., use only identical replacement chain tensioning screw).

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 leakage. Place the cover over the guide bar.

ACCESSORIES

Use only recommended accessories. Others may be hazardous. For a complete listing of accessories, go online to www.milwaukeetool.com or contact a distributor.