Milwaukee M18 FCHS / M18 FCHSC

Original Instructions

Section Overview

• I: Battery Installation/Removal
• II: Chain Installation
• III: Chain Tensioning
• IV: Starting the Chainsaw
• V: Operation Modes
• VI: Cutting Techniques
• VII: Maintenance
• VIII: Cleaning
• IX: Technical Data, Safety Instructions, Specified Conditions of Use, Declaration of Conformity, Batteries, Maintenance, Symbols

Know Your Chainsaw

Battery Installation and Removal

Installing the Battery Pack

Align the battery pack with the tool's battery compartment. Slide the battery pack into the compartment until it clicks into place. Ensure the battery is securely locked.

Removing the Battery Pack

Press the battery release button and pull the battery pack out of the tool.

Battery Charge Indicator

The battery pack features a charge indicator. Press and hold the indicator button to display the remaining charge:

• 78-100% Charge: Four illuminated LEDs.
• 55-77% Charge: Three illuminated LEDs.
• 33-54% Charge: Two illuminated LEDs.
• 10-32% Charge: One illuminated LED.
• Less than 10% Charge: One illuminated LED flashes.

Chain Installation

Step 1: Ensure the chain brake is in the 'RUN' position (lever pulled towards the front handle). Remove the battery pack.

Installing the Saw Chain and Guide Bar

Step 1: Remove the bar mounting nuts (14) using the combination wrench (16). Remove the chain cover (12).

Step 2: Place the saw chain (10) onto the guide bar (11), ensuring the cutters are oriented correctly (pointing forward). The drive links of the chain should fit into the bar groove.

Step 3: Attach the guide bar (11) to the chainsaw body. Loop the saw chain (10) around the drive sprocket (13).

Step 4: Replace the chain cover (12) and finger-tighten the bar mounting nuts (14). The guide bar should be free to move for tension adjustment.

Adjusting Chain Tension

Step 1: Remove the battery pack.

Step 2: Use the combination wrench (16) to turn the chain tensioning screw (18). Turn clockwise to increase tension, counter-clockwise to decrease tension.

Step 3: The correct tension is achieved when the chain sits snugly against the guide bar. Pull the chain away from the bar at its midpoint; there should be a small gap (approx. 3 mm) between the chain and the bar. Ensure the chain can still be moved by hand.

Step 4: Securely tighten the bar mounting nuts (14) using the combination wrench (16).

Note: New chains may stretch during initial use. Check and adjust chain tension frequently during the first two hours of operation.

Starting the Chainsaw

Step 1: Ensure the chain brake is in the 'RUN' position (lever pulled towards the front handle).

Step 2: Insert the battery pack.

Step 3: Press and hold the lock-off button, then squeeze the throttle trigger.

Step 4: Perform a test cut to ensure proper operation.

Operation Safety

Always hold the chainsaw firmly with both hands. The handles have insulated gripping surfaces to prevent electric shock if the chain contacts hidden wiring.

The chainsaw features a 'START/STOP' button for control.

Starting the Chainsaw (Detailed)

Step 1: Attach the guide bar cover.

Step 2: Insert the battery pack.

Step 3: Ensure the chain brake is in the 'RUN' position (lever pulled towards the front handle).

Step 4: Press the lock-off button and squeeze the throttle trigger to start the saw. Carry out a test cut.

Stopping the Chainsaw

Step 1: To stop the saw, release the throttle trigger.

Step 2: To engage the chain brake, push the lever forward towards the bar.

Step 3: To disengage the chain brake, pull the lever back towards the front handle until it clicks.

Step 4: Remove the battery pack before performing any maintenance or cleaning.

Cutting Techniques

General Cutting: Position the chainsaw so the chain engages the wood. Use smooth, steady strokes. Avoid forcing the saw.

Cutting Logs: For logs supported at both ends, make a notch 1/3 the diameter from the top, then cut through the remaining 2/3 from the bottom. For logs supported at one end, cut 1/3 from the underside, then cut from the top to meet the first cut.

Cutting Under Tension: Be aware of wood tension. When cutting a limb under tension, be alert for spring back. Cut from the bottom up to avoid binding.

Felling Trees: Plan an escape path. Make a directional notch (approx. 1/3 tree diameter) and a felling-back cut higher than the notch. Leave a hinge of wood to control the fall. Remove the saw and retreat when the tree begins to fall.

Limbing: Remove branches from a fallen tree. Leave lower limbs to support the log. Cut small limbs in one motion. Cut branches under tension from the bottom up.

Bucking: Ensure stable footing. Support the log if possible. Cut logs supported along their entire length from the top. For logs supported at one end, cut 1/3 from the underside, then cut from the top. For logs supported at both ends, cut 1/3 from the top, then cut the remaining 2/3 from the underside.

Cutting Springpoles: Be extremely cautious with springpoles as they can cause dangerous kickback. This operation should only be performed by trained users.

Chain Maintenance

Cleaning the Saw Chain

Step 1: Remove the battery pack.

Step 2: Use a brush to clean debris from the saw chain and guide bar.

Step 3: Ensure the chain brake mechanism is clean and free of debris.

Maintenance and Care

Chain Lubrication

Step 1: Unscrew and remove the oil cap.

Step 2: Fill the oil tank with chain lubricating oil. Monitor the oil level gauge.

Step 3: Replace and tighten the oil cap. Wipe away any spillage.

Checking and Operating the Chain Brake

Engage the chain brake by pushing the lever towards the bar. It should stop the chain immediately. Reset by pulling the lever back until it clicks.

Warning: If the chain brake does not function correctly, take the tool to a Milwaukee service station.

Transportation and Storage

Lightly oil the chain when storing to prevent rust. Empty the oil tank to prevent leakage.

Stop the machine, remove the battery, and allow it to cool before storing or transporting.

Clean all foreign materials. Store in a cool, dry, well-ventilated place, inaccessible to children. Keep away from corrosive agents.

Fit the guide bar cover before storing or transporting.

Secure the machine during transportation to prevent movement or falling.

Battery Bay Cleaning

Remove any chips, dirt, and debris from the battery bay after use.

Technical Data

Safety Warnings

Read all safety warnings and instructions. Failure to follow may result in electric shock, fire, or serious injury.

General Safety: Keep body parts away from the chain. Ensure the chain is not contacting anything before starting. Always hold the saw with both hands. Do not overreach or cut above shoulder height. Use proper footing on secure surfaces. Be alert for spring back when cutting tensioned limbs.

Kickback Prevention: Avoid tip contact. Maintain a firm grip. Do not rely solely on safety devices. Use correct operating procedures.

Specific Warnings: Do not use in wet conditions. Do not use if the switch does not stop the motor. Do not wear loose clothing or jewelry. Secure long hair.

Additional Safety and Working Instructions

Cut logs on a saw-horse or cradle. Ensure guards and handles are fitted and in good condition. Operator must be alert, physically fit, and have good vision, mobility, and balance.

Clear work area and plan retreat path. Beware of lubricant mist and sawdust; use a respirator if needed.

Always hold the saw with both hands, right hand on rear handle, left hand on front handle.

Before starting, ensure the chain is not contacting any object.

Do not modify the machine. Have a first-aid kit available.

Check chain tension frequently. Get used to the saw with simple cuts. Stop the motor, apply chain brake, and remove battery before cleaning, clearing blockages, or maintenance.

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 chain. Tip contact can cause a sudden reverse reaction. Pinching can push the bar back. Maintain a firm grip and position your body to resist kickback forces.

Cutting Techniques: Do not cut with your body in line with the guide bar. Do not use a back-and-forth sawing motion; let the chain do the work. Keep the chain sharp. Do not push at the end of the cut. Be ready to support the saw's weight.

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

Wear a helmet, preferably with a mesh visor, to reduce the risk of face/head injury from kickback.

Wear ear protectors to prevent hearing loss.

Use good quality PPE: safety helmet (EN 397), hearing protection (EN 352-1), eye/face protection (EN 166/1731), gloves (EN381-7), leg protection (EN 381-5), safety boots (EN ISO 20345:2004 with chain saw symbol), and chain saw jackets (EN 381-11).

Additional Safety Warnings

Check local regulations. Do not allow untrained persons or children to use the machine. Ensure controls and safety devices function correctly. Do not wear loose clothing. Secure long hair.

Beware of thrown objects. Keep bystanders away. Operate in good lighting. Use hearing protection but remain aware of surroundings. Keep firm footing and balance. Do not overreach.

Inspect the saw before each use for loose fasteners or damage. Replace damaged parts. Do not modify the machine. Stop immediately if the machine is dropped or vibrates abnormally.

Battery Disposal: Do not dispose of batteries in household waste or by burning. Return old batteries for recycling. Do not store batteries with metal objects.

Battery Safety: Use only M18 chargers. Avoid extreme temperatures. Handle damaged batteries with care.

Residual Risks: Injury from vibration (limit exposure, take breaks), hearing damage (use protection), contact with chain teeth, thrown workpiece pieces, dust, lubricants, ejected parts, kickback.

Risk Reduction (Vibration)

Vibration may contribute to Raynaud's Syndrome. To reduce effects: keep warm, wear gloves, exercise after use, take frequent breaks.

Assembly

Assembling Saw Chain and Guide Bar

Warning: Do not operate if parts are damaged or missing. Remove battery. Wear gloves.

1. Remove bar mounting nuts.
2. Remove chain cover.
3. Place chain on guide bar, ensuring correct direction and drive link alignment.
4. Attach bar to chainsaw, loop chain around sprocket.
5. Replace chain cover and bar mounting nuts.
6. Finger-tighten nuts; bar must move freely.
7. Adjust chain tension (see section below).
8. Hold guide bar tip up and securely tighten bar mounting nuts.

Adjusting Chain Tension

Remove battery pack. Turn tensioning screw clockwise to tighten, counter-clockwise to loosen. Correct tension: chain sits snugly, small gap (approx. 3mm) when pulled from bar. Tighten bar mounting nuts.

Note: Do not over-tension. Check tension frequently, especially with new chains or after initial use. Chain tension may change with temperature.

Operation: Adding Chain Lubricating Oil

Warning: Never operate without chain lubricant. Check oil level before use. Ensure reservoir is at least 1/4 full.

Use vegetable-based oil for pruning. Do not use waste oil. Clean around the oil cap before opening.

1. Unscrew and remove the oil cap.
2. Pour oil into the tank, monitoring the level gauge.
3. Replace and tighten the oil cap. Wipe spills.

Maintenance Schedule

Replacement Parts (Bar and Chain)

M18 FCHS

• Manufacturer: MILWAUKEE
• Chain: 4932464873 (OREGON 90PX056G)
• Guide Bar: 4932480174 (MLEA041)

M18 FCHSC

• Manufacturer: MILWAUKEE
• Chain: 4932471385
• Guide Bar: 4931469103

Note: Chain must be fitted with a bar from the same manufacturer.

Batteries

Recharge battery packs not used for some time. Avoid temperatures over 50°C. Keep contacts clean. Fully charge after use for optimum life. Remove from charger when fully charged.

Storage: For storage over 30 days, keep below 27°C and away from moisture, at 30-50% charge. Recharge every six months.

Battery Pack Protection

The tool will stop temporarily in situations of high torque, binding, stalling, or short circuits.

Transporting Lithium Batteries

Lithium-ion batteries are subject to Dangerous Goods regulations. Transport must comply with local, national, and international rules. Users can transport by road without further requirements. Commercial transport requires trained persons and documentation.

Transport Precautions: Protect terminals, insulate, secure packaging, do not transport cracked/leaking batteries.

EC Declaration of Conformity

Milwaukee declares that the product described under "Technical Data" fulfills relevant provisions of directives 2011/65/EU (RoHS), 2014/30/EU, 2006/42/EC, 2000/14/EC and harmonized standards EN 62841-1, EN 62841-4-1, EN IEC 55014-1, EN IEC 55014-2, EN IEC 63000.

Measured sound power level: 97.69 dB(A). Guaranteed sound power level: 100 dB(A).

Conformity assessment according to 2000/14/EC amended by 2005/88/EC to Annex V.

Signed by Alexander Krug, Managing Director, Techtronic Industries GmbH.

GB-Declaration of Conformity

Manufacturer declares compliance with UK regulations (S.I. 2012/3032, 2016/1091, 2008/1597, 2001/1701) and standards BS EN 62841-1, BS EN 62841-4-1, BS EN IEC 55014-1, BS EN IEC 55014-2, BS EN IEC 63000.

Measured sound power level: 97.69 dB(A). Guaranteed sound power level: 100 dB(A).

Conformity assessment to Schedule 8 Directive S.I. 2001/1701.

Signed by Alexander Krug, Managing Director, Techtronic Industries GmbH.

Symbols

General Warnings: [!] Caution/Warning/Danger. Remove battery before work. Read instructions. Never expose to rain. Beware of kickback. Not use one-handed. Always use two-handed.

PPE Symbols: [helmet] Wear helmet. [ear protection] Wear ear protectors. [safety glasses] Use safety glasses. [protective clothing] Wear protective clothing and footwear. [safety boots] Wear safety shoes. [gloves] Wear gloves.

Operational Symbols: [chain brake RUN] Set chain brake to RUN. [chain brake BRAKE] Set chain brake to BRAKE. [rotate] Rotate to adjust chain tension. [chain direction] Chain running direction. [V] Voltage. [DC] Direct Current. [v0] No-load chain speed. [LWA] Guaranteed sound power level.

Disposal: Do not dispose of batteries or electronic equipment in unsorted waste. Collect separately. Dispose of batteries and electronic equipment responsibly.

Compliance Marks: [CE] European Conformity Mark. [UK CA] British Conformity Mark. [Ukraine Conformity Mark] Ukraine Conformity Mark. [EAC] EurAsian Conformity Mark.

Copyright 2022 Techtronic Industries GmbH. Contact: +49 (0) 7195-12-0, www.milwaukeetool.eu