1. Important Safety Instructions
Read all safety warnings, instructions, illustrations, and specifications provided with this power tool. Failure to follow all instructions listed below may result in electric shock, fire, and/or serious injury. Save all warnings and instructions for future reference.
General Power Tool Safety
- 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.
- 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.
- Personal Safety: Always wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) including safety glasses, hearing protection, gloves, and sturdy footwear. Dress properly; avoid loose clothing or jewelry.
- Tool Use and Care: Do not force the power tool. Use the correct power tool for your application. Disconnect the plug from the power source and/or remove the battery pack before making any adjustments, changing accessories, or storing power tools.
Chainsaw Specific Safety
- Keep all parts of the body away from the saw chain when the chainsaw is operating. Ensure the chainsaw is switched off before attempting to clear jammed material or servicing the unit.
- Always hold the chainsaw firmly with both hands. Use a firm grip with thumbs and fingers encircling the chainsaw handles.
- Do not operate a chainsaw in a tree. Operation of a chainsaw while up in a tree may result in personal injury.
- Maintain proper footing and balance. Do not overreach.
- Be aware 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.
- Wear eye protection and hearing protection. Further protective equipment for head, hands, legs, and feet is recommended.
2. Product Overview and Components
The Yard Force 20V Cordless Mini-Chainsaw LS C13 is a compact, lightweight, and versatile tool designed for pruning and light cutting tasks. It features an ergonomic handle and a 13 cm cutting length, making it suitable for various indoor and outdoor applications.
Figure 2.1: Yard Force 20V Cordless Mini-Chainsaw with included battery and charger.
Included Components
Your Yard Force Mini-Chainsaw package includes the following items:
- 20V One-Hand Chainsaw Unit
- Blade Guard
- 20V Lithium-ion Battery (2.0 Ah)
- Battery Charger
- Allen Key
- Lubricating Oil
- User Manual
Figure 2.2: Overview of the Yard Force Mini-Chainsaw and its accessories.
3. Setup and Assembly
3.1 Charging the Battery
- Connect the charger to a standard power outlet.
- Slide the battery pack onto the charger until it clicks into place.
- The indicator light on the charger will show the charging status. Refer to the charger's specific instructions for light indications.
- Once fully charged, remove the battery from the charger.
Figure 3.1: The 20V Lithium-ion battery.
Figure 3.2: The battery charger.
3.2 Installing the Battery
Ensure the chainsaw is switched off before installing the battery.
- Align the battery pack with the battery slot on the chainsaw handle.
- Slide the battery into the slot until it locks securely into place with an audible click.
- To remove, press the battery release button and slide the battery out.
3.3 Chain Installation and Tensioning
Refer to the detailed instructions in the included user manual for precise chain installation and tensioning procedures. Proper chain tension is crucial for safe and efficient operation.
Figure 3.3: Close-up view of the chainsaw chain and guide bar.
3.4 Lubricating Oil Application
Before each use, ensure the chain is adequately lubricated. Apply the provided lubricating oil to the chain and guide bar as per the instructions in the full manual to ensure smooth operation and prolong chain life.
4. Operating Instructions
Always wear appropriate safety gear, including safety glasses, gloves, and hearing protection, before operating the chainsaw.
4.1 Starting and Stopping
- Starting: Ensure the battery is installed and fully charged. Press and hold the safety lock button, then squeeze the trigger switch to start the chainsaw.
- Stopping: Release the trigger switch to stop the chainsaw. The chain will stop rotating.
4.2 Cutting Techniques
The Yard Force Mini-Chainsaw is designed for effortlessly cutting branches up to 110 mm in diameter. Always maintain a firm grip with both hands on the ergonomic handle.
- Proper Grip: Hold the chainsaw firmly with one hand on the main handle and the other on the auxiliary handle, ensuring a secure and balanced grip.
- Cutting Position: Stand in a stable position, keeping your body balanced. Avoid cutting above shoulder height.
- Initiating a Cut: Place the running chain against the branch to be cut. Allow the saw to do the work; do not force it.
- Avoiding Kickback: Be mindful of the guide bar tip. Avoid contact with other objects or the ground to prevent sudden upward or backward movement (kickback).
Figure 4.1: Demonstrating proper cutting technique with the mini-chainsaw.
Figure 4.2: User demonstrating safe operation while pruning.
5. Maintenance
Regular maintenance ensures the longevity and safe operation of your Yard Force Mini-Chainsaw.
5.1 Cleaning
- After each use, remove the battery and clean the chainsaw.
- Use a brush or compressed air to remove sawdust and debris from the motor housing, guide bar, and chain.
- Wipe down the exterior with a damp cloth. Do not use harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners.
5.2 Chain and Guide Bar Care
- Chain Sharpening: A dull chain will reduce cutting efficiency and increase kickback risk. Sharpen the chain regularly or replace it when necessary. Refer to the full manual for sharpening angles and techniques.
- Chain Tension: Check chain tension before each use. Adjust as needed to ensure the chain is snug but can still be pulled freely around the guide bar.
- Guide Bar Maintenance: Clean the guide bar groove to remove accumulated sawdust. Flip the guide bar periodically to ensure even wear.
5.3 Storage
- Always store the chainsaw with the blade guard installed.
- Store the tool and battery in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight and moisture.
- Keep out of reach of children.
Figure 5.1: Always use the blade guard for safe storage and transport.
6. Troubleshooting
This section addresses common issues you might encounter with your Yard Force Mini-Chainsaw.
| Problem | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Chainsaw does not start | Battery not charged or improperly installed; Safety lock not engaged; Faulty switch | Ensure battery is fully charged and correctly inserted. Press safety lock before trigger. If problem persists, contact customer support. |
| Chain does not move or moves slowly | Chain tension too tight; Chain dull or damaged; Debris in guide bar; Low battery | Adjust chain tension. Sharpen or replace chain. Clean guide bar groove. Recharge battery. |
| Poor cutting performance | Dull chain; Incorrect chain tension; Insufficient lubrication | Sharpen or replace chain. Adjust chain tension. Apply lubricating oil. |
| Excessive vibration | Loose components; Damaged chain or guide bar | Check all fasteners for tightness. Inspect chain and guide bar for damage and replace if necessary. |
If you encounter issues not listed here or if solutions do not resolve the problem, please contact Yard Force customer support.
7. Technical Specifications
Below are the key technical specifications for the Yard Force 20V Cordless Mini-Chainsaw LS C13:
| Specification | Value |
|---|---|
| Model Number | LS C13 |
| Brand | Yard Force |
| Manufacturer | Sumec |
| Voltage | 20 Volts |
| Battery Type | Lithium-ion (1 included) |
| Chain Speed | 3.2 meters per second |
| Cutting Length | 13 cm |
| Max. Cutting Diameter | 110 mm |
| Item Weight | 2 Kilograms |
| Product Dimensions (L x W x H) | 28 x 10 x 40 cm |
| Blade Material | High-speed steel |
| Special Feature | Depth adjustment |
8. Warranty and Support
For warranty information, please refer to the warranty card included with your product or visit the official Yard Force website. Keep your proof of purchase for any warranty claims.
For technical support, spare parts, or service inquiries, please contact Yard Force customer service through their official channels. Contact details can typically be found on the product packaging or the manufacturer's website.
