Makita Electric Chain Saw

General Safety Instructions

WARNING: Read all safety warnings and instructions. Failure to follow warnings and instructions may result in electric shock, fire, or serious injury. Save all warnings and instructions for future reference.

General Safety Instructions for Electric Tools

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.

Safety Instructions for Chain Saw

1. Keep all parts of the body away from the saw chain when the saw is operating. Before starting the chain saw, make sure the saw chain is not touching anything. A moment of inattention while operating the chain saw may result in your clothing or body being caught by the saw chain.
2. Always grip the chain saw firmly with your right hand on the rear handle and your left hand on the front handle. When you are holding the chain saw in a reversed position, this grip will help you prevent injury.
3. Hold the tool only by the insulated gripping surfaces, because the saw chain may contact a hidden wiring or its own cord, causing the tool to be energized. Contact with a live wire may make exposed metal parts of the tool live and could give the operator an electric shock.
4. Wear eye protection and hearing protection. It is also recommended to wear additional protection for head, hands, and feet. Appropriate clothing will prevent injuries from flying chips and accidental contact with the saw chain.
5. Do not use the chain saw on a tree. Use on a tree may result in injury.
6. Maintain proper footing and operate the chain saw only when you are standing on a firm, level surface. Slippery or unstable surfaces, such as a ladder, may cause you to lose your balance or control of the chain saw.
7. When cutting a branch that is under tension, be alert to the possibility that the wood may spring back. If the wood is released, the tensioned wood may strike the operator and/or cause the chain saw to be thrown out of control.
8. Use extreme caution when cutting brush and small trees. Springy material may catch the saw chain and be thrown into your face or cause you to lose balance.
9. Carry the chain saw by the front handle with the saw switched off and the guide bar pointing 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 possibility of accidental contact with the moving saw chain.
10. Follow instructions for lubricating, chain tensioning, and accessory replacement. A improperly tensioned or lubricated chain may break or increase the risk of kickback.
11. Keep handles dry, clean, and free from oil and grease. Greasy handles are slippery and may cause loss of control.
12. Cut wood only. Do not use the chain saw for purposes for which it is not intended. For example: do not use the chain saw to cut plastic, masonry, or non-wood building materials. Use of the chain saw for operations different from those intended may result in a hazardous situation.
13. Causes and Prevention of Kickback: Kickback may occur when the nose or tip of the guide bar touches an object, or when the wood closes in on the saw chain in the cut. Contact of the tip of the guide bar may cause a rapid reverse reaction, lifting the guide bar up and away from the operator. Either pinching of the saw chain along the tip of the guide bar may push the saw chain rapidly back toward the operator. Either of these reactions can cause the operator to lose control of the saw and may result in serious personal injury. Do not rely on the safety devices built into your saw. As a user of the chain saw, you should take several precautions to keep cutting jobs free from accident or injury. Kickback is the result of misuse of tools and/or incorrect operating procedures or conditions and can be avoided by taking proper precautions as given below:
• Always grip the chain saw firmly with both hands and place your arms and body in a position to resist kickback forces. If proper precautions are taken, the operator can control kickback forces. Never release the chain saw.
• Never start a cut with the tip of the guide bar.
• Never use the tip of the guide bar to make a cut.
• Exercise extreme caution when you are cutting into something that you have already cut into.
• Start the cut with the chain saw running.
• Keep the chain saw sharp and properly tensioned.
• Ensure the depth gauge is properly set.
• Never cut more than one log at a time.
• When limbing, be careful not to contact a branch with the guide bar.
• When bucking, keep clear of the adjacent logs.
• Always watch the tip of the guide bar.
• Use a sawhorse.
14. Do not overreach. Maintain proper footing and balance at all times. This enables better control of the chain saw in unexpected situations.
15. Use only Makita replacement guide bars and saw chains. Improper replacement guide bars and saw chains may break the saw chain and cause kickback.
16. Follow the manufacturer's instructions for sharpening and maintaining the saw chain. Incorrect depth gauge settings can increase the chance of kickback.

Additional Safety Rules

1. Read this manual to familiarize yourself with the saw.
2. If you are not familiar with chain saws, receive training on their use before operating. If training is not available, practice cutting logs on a sawhorse until you are comfortable.
3. Children and persons under 18 years of age must not operate this chain saw. Persons 16 years of age but under 18 may operate this chain saw only if they receive instruction from an instructor.
4. Chain saw operation requires high concentration. Do not operate the saw when you are tired. Perform all work calmly and deliberately.
5. Never operate the saw while under the influence of alcohol, drugs, or medication.

Proper Use

1. The chain saw is intended for cutting wood only. Do not use it for cutting plastic, porous concrete, or other non-wood materials.
2. Use the chain saw only for the purposes described in this manual. For example, do not use the chain saw for trimming hedges or similar tasks.
3. The chain saw is not intended for forestry work, such as felling or trimming standing trees. The cord of the chain saw does not provide the mobility and safety required for such work.
4. The chain saw is not intended for commercial use.
5. Do not overload the chain saw.

Personal Protective Equipment

1. Clothing should be snug-fitting but not restrict movement.
2. When working, use the following protective equipment:
• A tested safety helmet if there is a risk of falling branches or similar hazards.
• A face shield or safety glasses.
• Adequate hearing protection (earmuffs or earplugs). Octave band analysis is available upon request.
• Sturdy leather safety footwear.
• Long trousers made of durable material.
• A protective suit made of cut-resistant fabric.
• Safety footwear or boots with anti-slip soles, steel toe caps, and cut-resistant lining.
• A dust mask when performing work that generates dust (e.g., cutting dry wood).

Protection Against Electric Shock

1. Do not use the chain saw in wet weather or in a wet environment, as the electric motor is not waterproof.
2. Connect the saw only to tested electrical circuits. Verify that the mains voltage matches the voltage indicated on the nameplate. Ensure that a 16 A fuse is installed. Saws used outdoors must be connected to a residual current device (RCD) with a tripping current not exceeding 30 mA.
3. If the power cord is damaged, immediately unplug the saw.

Safe Working Practices

1. Before starting work, check that the chain saw is in proper working order and complies with safety directives. Specifically, check:
• Proper function of the chain brake.
• Proper function of the coasting brake.
• Secure attachment of the guide bar and sprocket cover.
• Chain sharpness and tension in accordance with directives.
• Good condition of the power cord and plug.
• Refer to the "CHECKS" section.
2. Always ensure that the extension cord has the appropriate cross-section (see "TECHNICAL DATA"). If using a cable reel, unwind the cable completely. If using the saw outdoors, ensure the power cord is suitable for outdoor use and properly rated.
3. Route the cable away from the cutting area and ensure it is not caught by branches, etc., during cutting.
4. Do not operate the chain saw near flammable dust or gases. The motor generates sparks and poses an explosion risk.
5. Work only on a firm surface and maintain good footing. Pay extra attention to obstacles (e.g., cables) in the work area. Pay extra attention to places where moisture, snow, freshly cut wood, or bark may cause slipperiness. Do not stand on a ladder or in a tree while operating the saw.
6. Exercise extra caution when working on slopes; rolling logs and branches pose a potential hazard.
7. Never cut above shoulder height.
8. When starting and operating, hold the chain saw with both hands. Hold the rear handle with your right hand and the front handle with your left hand. Grip the handles firmly with both thumbs. When starting the saw, the bar and chain must not touch any object.
9. When moving between cuts, engage the chain brake to prevent accidental starting of the saw chain. When carrying the saw, grip the front handle and do not place your finger on the switch.
10. During breaks or when leaving the chain saw unattended, disconnect it from the power supply. Place the chain saw so that it does not pose a hazard.

Kickback

1. Kickback can occur during chain saw operation, posing a hazard. Kickback occurs when the tip of the guide bar (especially the upper quarter) touches wood or another solid object. This causes the chain saw to be deflected towards the operator. A sudden reaction may occur when the tip contacts an object, lifting the guide bar up and towards the operator. If the saw chain is pinched in the upper part of the guide bar, the guide bar may move rapidly towards the operator. In these situations, you may lose control of the saw, resulting in serious injury. Do not rely solely on the safety devices built into the saw. As a user of the chain saw, you must take all necessary precautions to prevent accidents or injuries. Kickback is the result of improper use and/or incorrect operating procedures or conditions. It can be avoided by taking the following precautions:
• Always grip the chain saw firmly, with your thumbs and fingers encircling the handles. Assume a stance and hand position that allows you to resist kickback forces. With proper preventative measures, the operator can manage kickback forces. Never let go of the chain saw.
• Never start a cut with the tip of the guide bar.
• Never use the tip of the guide bar for cutting.
• Exercise special caution when continuing cuts that have already been started.
• Start the cut with the chain running.
• Always sharpen the chain properly.
• Pay particular attention to the correct setting of the depth gauge.
• Never cut multiple branches simultaneously.
• When limbing, be careful not to let the guide bar contact other branches.
• When bucking, keep clear of adjacent logs.
• Always watch the tip of the guide bar.
• Use a sawhorse.
2. Clean the cutting area of foreign objects such as sand, stones, nails, wires, etc. These can damage the bar and chain and cause dangerous kickback.
3. Exercise increased caution when cutting near wire fences. Do not cut into the fence. Doing so may cause kickback.
4. Do not cut into the ground.
5. Cut wood into individual pieces, not in bundles.
6. Do not cut thin branches or roots with the saw, as they may become entangled with the saw chain, causing loss of balance and risk of injury.
7. Use a proper sawhorse for processing lumber.
8. Do not use the chain saw for prying or removing pieces of wood or other objects.
9. Guide the chain saw so that no part of your body is in the path of the extended saw chain (see illustration).

Safety Devices

1. Before starting work, always check that the safety devices are functioning correctly. If any safety device is not working properly, do not use the chain saw.

Chain Brake

The chain saw is equipped with a chain brake that stops the saw chain in a fraction of a second. The brake is activated by moving the hand guard forward. The saw chain then stops within 0.15 seconds, and the power supply to the motor is interrupted.

• 1. Active Chain Brake
• 2. Released Chain Brake

Coasting Brake

The chain saw is equipped with a coasting brake that ensures the saw chain stops immediately when the trigger switch (ON/OFF) is released. This prevents the saw chain from continuing to rotate after the saw is switched off, thus preventing potential injury.

• The front and rear hand guards protect the user from wood chips being ejected backwards and from a broken saw chain.
• The switch lock prevents accidental starting of the chain saw.
• The chain catcher protects the user from injury that could occur if the chain becomes loose or breaks.

Transport and Storage

1. If you are not using the chain saw or during transport, disconnect the power plug and fit the supplied guide bar cover. Never carry or transport the saw with the saw chain running.
2. Carry the chain saw only by the front handle, with the bar pointing backwards.
3. Always store the chain saw in a safe, dry, and locked place out of reach of children. Do not store the chain saw outdoors.

Maintenance

1. Before performing any adjustments or maintenance, disconnect the power plug from the socket.
2. Regularly check the power cord for damage to the insulation.
3. Clean the chain saw regularly.
4. Have any damaged plastic housing repaired promptly and properly.
5. Do not use the saw if the switch is not functioning correctly. Have the switch repaired.
6. Under no circumstances should you modify the chain saw. Doing so could endanger your safety.
7. Do not perform any maintenance or repairs not described in this manual. All other work must be carried out by authorized service centers.
8. Use only genuine Makita replacement parts and accessories for your saw model. Using other parts increases the risk of injury. Makita is not liable for any injuries or damages caused by the use of unapproved guide bars, saw chains, or other replacement parts and accessories.

First Aid

• Never work alone. Always have another person within shouting distance when working.
• Keep a first aid kit readily available. Replace any used items immediately.
• In case of an accident requiring assistance, provide the following information: Where did the accident occur? What happened? How many people are injured? What are the injuries? Who is reporting the accident?

NOTE: Individuals with poor circulation exposed to excessive vibration may experience damage to blood vessels or the nervous system. Vibration can cause symptoms in the fingers, hands, or wrists such as numbness, tingling, pain, throbbing, changes in skin color, or changes in skin texture. If you experience any of these symptoms, seek medical attention!

KEEP THESE INSTRUCTIONS.

WARNING: Do not let familiarity with the product gained from frequent use lead to carelessness in observing safety rules for the tool. Careless handling or failure to follow the safety instructions set forth in this manual may cause serious personal injury.

Parts Description

Diagram showing the parts of the chain saw:

• 1. Rear Handle
• 2. Switch Trigger
• 3. Oil Filler Cap
• 4. Front Handle
• 5. Front Hand Guard
• 6. Guide Bar
• 7. Saw Chain
• 8. Lever
• 9. Sprocket Cover
• 10. Adjustment Knob
• 11. Rear Hand Guard
• 12. Oil Level Sight Glass
• 13. Bumper Spikes
• 14. Lock-off Button
• 15. Chain Catcher
• 16. Guide Bar Cover
• 17. Cord Retainer
• 18. Adjusting Screw for Oil Pump (bottom)

Assembly

CAUTION: Before performing any work on the tool, make sure it is switched off and unplugged from the socket.

Removing and Installing the Saw Chain

CAUTION: Always wear protective gloves when installing or removing the saw chain.

1. Press and fully open the lever until it clicks into place.
2. Turn the lever counterclockwise to loosen the sprocket cover and remove the cover.
3. Turn the adjustment knob counterclockwise (towards the "-" symbol) to loosen the saw chain tension.
4. Remove the sprocket cover.
5. Remove the saw chain and guide bar from the chain saw.
6. To install the saw chain, follow these steps:
• Ensure the chain is correctly oriented. The correct direction is indicated by an arrow mark on the chain.
• Place one end of the saw chain onto the top of the guide bar and route the other end around the sprocket.
• Install the guide bar onto the chain saw.
• Align the tensioning pin with the hole in the guide bar.
• While holding the guide bar, adjust the chain tension by turning the adjustment knob clockwise (towards the "+" symbol).
• Fit the sprocket cover so that the hooks engage the holes and the pin seats into the counterbore in the sprocket cover.
• Turn the lever clockwise to secure the sprocket cover.
• Press the lever to return it to its original position.

Adjusting Saw Chain Tension

After many hours of operation, the saw chain may become loose. Check the saw chain tension periodically before use.

1. Press and fully open the lever until it clicks into place. Slightly loosen the sprocket cover by turning it counterclockwise.
2. Slightly lift the end of the guide bar.
3. Adjust the saw chain tension by turning the adjustment knob. Tighten the saw chain until the bottom side of the saw chain sits in the guide bar groove (see the area indicated by the circle).
4. While holding the guide bar lightly, tighten the sprocket cover after adjusting the chain tension. Ensure the saw chain is not loose on the bottom side.
5. Press the lever to return it to its original position.
6. Ensure the saw chain fits snugly against the bottom of the guide bar.

CAUTION: Do not overtighten the saw chain. Overtightening can cause the saw chain to break, wear the guide bar, and damage the adjustment knob. An excessively loose chain can jump off the bar, creating a hazard. Perform chain installation or removal in a clean environment, free from sawdust and other debris.

Using an Extension Cord

CAUTION: Ensure the extension cord is unplugged from the socket.

When using an extension cord, connect the extension cord to the chain saw's cord with the clamp. Attach the clamp approximately 100 to 200 mm from the extension cord connector to prevent accidental disconnection.

Operation

Starting

CAUTION: Before checking the switch function, always ensure the tool is switched off and disconnected from the power supply. Always check that the switch operates correctly and returns to the OFF position when released before plugging the tool into the socket.

A lock-off button is provided to prevent accidental activation of the switch trigger. To start the tool, press the lock-off button and then the switch trigger. To stop, release the switch trigger.

NOTE: Do not switch the tool on and off frequently in rapid succession (within five seconds). This can cause the internal temperature of the tool to rise and may damage it. The specified time may vary depending on ambient temperature and other conditions.

Lubrication

CAUTION: Before lubricating the saw chain, always ensure the tool is switched off and unplugged from the electrical outlet.

Lubricate the saw chain and guide bar with a biodegradable chain oil with an adhesive additive. The adhesive additive in the chain oil prevents the oil from being thrown off the saw too quickly. Do not use mineral oils, as they are harmful to the environment.

CAUTION: Avoid contact of oil with skin and eyes. Contact with eyes causes irritation. In case of eye contact, rinse immediately with clean water and seek medical attention.

• Never use waste oil. Used oil contains carcinogenic substances. Contaminants in used oil accelerate wear of the oil pump, guide bar, and chain. Used oil is harmful to the environment.
• When filling the chain saw for the first time or refilling the tank after it has been completely emptied, fill the oil up to the bottom edge of the filler neck. Failure to do so may cause problems with oil supply.

To refill the oil, follow these steps:

1. Thoroughly clean the area around the oil filler cap to prevent dirt from entering the oil tank.
2. Unscrew the oil filler cap and fill the oil up to the bottom edge of the filler neck.
3. Screw the oil filler cap back on tightly.
4. Carefully wipe off any spilled oil.

NOTE: When the chain saw is first started, it may take up to two minutes for the chain oil to properly lubricate the saw's mechanism. Let the saw run unloaded until proper lubrication is achieved (see "CHECKS").

Checks

Perform the following checks before starting work:

Chain Tension Check

WARNING: Always unplug the tool before checking the chain tension. Wear protective gloves.

Ensure the saw chain fits snugly against the bottom of the guide bar (see circled area). Check chain tension frequently, as new chains stretch. Overtightening the saw chain can cause it to break, wear the guide bar, and damage the adjustment knob. An excessively loose chain can jump off the bar, creating a hazard. If the chain is too loose: Refer to the "Adjusting Saw Chain Tension" section and re-tension the saw chain.

Switch Function Check

CAUTION: Always check that the switch operates correctly and returns to the OFF position when released before plugging the tool into the socket. A lock-off button is provided to prevent accidental activation of the switch trigger. To start the tool, press the lock-off button and then the switch trigger. To stop, release the switch trigger. Do not force the switch without pressing the lock-off button, as this may damage the switch.

Chain Brake Check

NOTE: If the chain saw does not start, check if the chain brake is released. To release the chain brake, firmly push the hand guard forward until it locks into place.

Perform the chain brake check as follows:

1. When starting, hold the chain saw with both hands. Hold the rear handle with your right hand and the front handle with your left hand. Ensure the bar and chain do not touch any object.
2. First, press the lock-off button and then the switch trigger. The chain saw will start immediately.
3. Push the rear of your hand against the front hand guard in the forward direction. Ensure the saw chain stops immediately.

CAUTION: If the saw chain does not stop immediately, do not use the saw under any circumstances. Contact an authorized Makita service center.

Coasting Brake Check

Start the chain saw. Release the switch trigger completely. Ensure the saw chain stops within one second.

CAUTION: If the saw chain does not stop immediately, do not use the saw under any circumstances. Contact an authorized Makita service center.

Chain Lubricator Check

Before starting work, check the oil level in the tank and the oil supply. You can check the oil level using the oil indicator shown in the illustration.

Check the oil supply as follows:

• Start the chain saw.
• Start the saw and hold the saw chain approximately 15 cm above a tree stump or the ground. If lubrication is adequate, the sprayed oil will leave a light oil trail.
• Observe the wind direction and avoid exposing yourself unnecessarily to sprayed oil.

CAUTION: If no oil trail is visible, do not use the saw. Failure to lubricate will shorten the life of the chain. Check the oil level. Clean the oil feed groove and the oil inlet hole in the guide bar (see "MAINTENANCE").

Chain Lubrication Adjustment

The oil pump output can be adjusted using the adjusting screw.

CAUTION: Always use the front and rear handles and hold the tool firmly when working. Always secure the material being cut so that cut-off pieces do not cause injury.

Working with the Chain Saw

Bucking

When bucking, rest the bumper spikes shown in the illustration against the wood being cut.

With the chain saw running, dig the saw into the wood, lifting the saw with the rear handle and guiding it with the front handle. Use the bumper spikes as a pivot point. Continue cutting with slight pressure on the front handle, moving the saw back slightly. Move the bumper spikes lower into the cut and lift the front handle again. If making multiple cuts, switch off the saw between cuts.

CAUTION: When cutting with the upper edge of the guide bar, the chain saw may be deflected towards you if the chain jams. For this reason, make cuts with the lower edge, so that the saw is deflected away from your body in such cases.

First, cut the wood on the compression side (A). Then, make the final cut on the tension side (B). This prevents the guide bar from getting pinched.

Limbing

CAUTION: Limbing should only be performed by trained personnel. The risk of kickback poses a danger of injury. If possible, rest the chain saw against the trunk when limbing. Do not cut with the tip of the guide bar; this avoids the risk of kickback. Pay special attention to branches under tension. Do not cut unsupported branches from below. Do not stand on the felled trunk when limbing.

Notching and Cutting Parallel to the Grain

CAUTION: Notching and cutting parallel to the grain should only be performed by persons with special training. The risk of kickback poses a danger of injury. Make cuts parallel to the grain at the smallest possible angle. Make the cut as carefully as possible, as the bumper spikes cannot be used in this situation.

Felling

CAUTION: Felling should only be performed by trained personnel. The work involves risk. Follow local regulations when felling trees.

Before starting felling, ensure the following:

1. Only authorized persons may be present in the felling area.
2. Persons involved in felling must have a clear escape route within approximately 45° on both sides of the felling line. When felling near power lines, consider the additional risks.
3. The base of the trunk must be free of foreign objects, roots, and branches.
4. No persons or objects should be within 2.5 times the trunk length in the direction of fall.

Consider the following for each tree:

• Direction of tilt.
• Loose or dead branches.
• Tree height.
• Natural overhang.
• Whether or not the tree is rotten.

Consider the speed and direction of the wind. Do not fell trees in strong, gusty winds.

Root Collar Cutting: Start with the largest root collars. Make the vertical cut first, then the horizontal cut.

Directional Cut: Make a directional cut. The directional cut determines the direction the tree will fall and guides it during the fall. It is made on the side towards which the tree is to fall. Make the directional cut as close to the ground as possible. First, make a horizontal cut to a depth of 1/5 to 1/3 of the trunk diameter. The directional cut should not be too large. Then, make the diagonal cut. Make any necessary adjustments along the entire length of the directional cut.

Felling Cut: Make the felling cut slightly higher than the base of the directional cut. The felling cut must be perfectly horizontal. Leave approximately 1/10 of the trunk diameter between the felling cut and the directional cut. The wood fibers in the uncut portion of the trunk act as a hinge. Never cut directly through the fibers, or the tree will fall uncontrollably. Insert wedges into the felling cut in good time.

Only plastic or aluminum wedges may be used to keep the felling cut open. The use of steel wedges is prohibited.

Position yourself to the side of the falling tree. Keep the area behind the tree clear within a 45° angle on both sides of the tree's fall line (see "fall zone" illustration). Watch out for falling branches.

If necessary, plan and clear an escape route before cutting. The escape route should be directed backwards, diagonally to the rear line of the tree's expected fall, as shown in the illustration.

Maintenance

CAUTION: Before performing any inspection or maintenance on the tool, always ensure it is switched off and unplugged from the socket. Always wear protective gloves when performing inspections and maintenance. Never use gasoline, benzene, thinner, alcohol, or similar agents. These may cause discoloration, deformation, or cracking.

Perform the maintenance described below at regular intervals. Warranty claims will only be honored if these activities have been performed regularly and correctly. Users may only perform maintenance described in this manual. All other work must be performed by authorized MAKITA service centers.

Cleaning the Chain Saw

Clean the saw regularly with a clean cloth. Ensure the handles are free from oil.

Plastic Housing Inspection

Perform a regular visual inspection of all housing parts. If any parts are found to be damaged, have them repaired immediately and properly by an authorized MAKITA service center.

Sharpening the Saw Chain

CAUTION: Always unplug the saw and wear protective gloves before performing work on the saw chain.

The saw chain needs sharpening in the following cases:

• Sawdust is produced when cutting moist wood.
• The chain penetrates the wood with difficulty, even with strong pressure.
• The cutting edge is visibly damaged.
• The saw pulls to the left or right in the wood. This is caused by uneven sharpening of the saw chain or unilateral damage.

Sharpen the saw chain frequently, but remove only a small amount of material with each sharpening. Two or three strokes of the file are usually sufficient for normal sharpening. After several chain sharpenings, have the chain sharpened by an authorized service center.

Sharpening Criteria:

• All tooth lengths must be the same. Teeth of different lengths will prevent smooth chain running and may cause the chain to break.
• Do not sharpen the chain once the minimum cutter length of 3 mm has been reached. In this case, a new chain must be installed.
• The thickness of the chip is determined by the distance between the depth gauge (rounded nose) and the cutter. For best cutting results, set the following distance between the cutter and the depth gauge:
• Saw chain 90PX: 0.5 mm
• Saw chain 91PX: 0.65 mm

WARNING: An excessive distance increases the risk of kickback.

The 30° sharpening angle must be the same for all cutters. Differences in angles can lead to rough and uneven chain movement, accelerate wear, and cause chain breakage.

The side-rake angle is determined by the depth of penetration of the round file. With proper use of the specified file, the correct side-rake angle will be formed automatically.

Side-rake angles for individual saw chains are as follows:

• Saw chain 90PX: 75°
• Saw chain 91PX: 80°

Filing and File Guide

• Use a special round file (optional accessory) for sharpening the chain. Regular round files are not suitable.
• Round file diameters for individual saw chains are as follows:
• Saw chain 90PX: 4.5 mm
• Saw chain 91PX: 4.0 mm
• Remove cutter material only when moving the file forward. Move the file away from the cutter on the return stroke.
• First, sharpen the shortest cutter. The length of the shortest cutter then becomes the pattern for all other chain cutters.
• Guide the file as illustrated. The file can be guided more easily using a file guide (optional accessory). The file guide is equipped with markings for the correct 30° sharpening angle (align markings parallel to the saw chain) and limits the depth of cut (to 4/5 of the cutter diameter).
• After sharpening the chain, check the depth gauge height using a chain depth gauge (optional accessory).
• Use a special flat file (optional accessory) to remove any excess material. Round off the front of the depth gauge again.

Cleaning the Guide Bar and Lubricating the Sprocket

CAUTION: Always wear protective gloves for this operation. Burrs pose a risk of injury.

Regularly inspect the wear surfaces of the guide bar. Use a suitable tool to clean and, if necessary, remove burrs.

If the chain saw is used frequently, lubricate the sprocket bearing at least once a week. Before applying fresh grease, thoroughly clean the 2 mm hole at the tip of the guide bar, then force a small amount of multi-purpose grease (optional accessory) into the hole.

Cleaning the Oil Guide

• Clean the oil feed groove and the oil inlet hole at regular intervals.

New Saw Chains

• Use two or three saw chains alternately to ensure even wear of the saw chain, sprocket, and guide bar wear surfaces.
• When changing the chain, turn the guide bar to ensure even wear of the guide bar groove.

CAUTION: Use only chains and bars approved for the specific saw model (see "TECHNICAL DATA").

Before installing a new saw chain, check the condition of the sprocket. CAUTION: A worn sprocket will cause damage to the new saw chain. In such cases, have the sprocket replaced. Always use a new retaining ring when replacing the sprocket.

Chain and Coasting Brake Maintenance

Braking systems are very important safety features. Like other chain saw components, they are subject to wear. Therefore, they must be regularly checked by an authorized MAKITA service center. This measure is for your safety.

Tool Storage

Biodegradable chain oil can only be stored for a limited time. After two years from the date of manufacture, biodegradable oils begin to lose their adhesive properties and can damage the oil pump and lubrication system components.

• Before extended periods of non-use, empty the oil tank and fill it with a small amount of motor oil (SAE 30).
• Run the chain saw for a short time to flush out any remaining biodegradable oil from the tank, lubrication system, and saw mechanism.

NOTE: After interrupting the operation of the chain saw, a small amount of chain oil may continue to drip for some time. This is normal and not a sign of a defect.

Store the chain saw on a suitable surface. Before putting the chain saw back into operation, refill it with fresh BIOTOP chain oil. To ensure the safety and reliability of the product, all repairs, checks, and brush replacements, as well as all other maintenance or adjustments, must be performed by authorized Makita service centers using Makita replacement parts.

Troubleshooting

Before requesting a repair, perform a self-check. If you encounter a problem not explained in this manual, do not attempt to disassemble the unit. Contact an authorized Makita service center instead.

Optional Accessories

CAUTION: For your Makita tool described in this manual, we recommend using these accessories and attachments. Using other accessories or attachments may pose a risk of personal injury. Accessories and attachments may only be used for their intended purposes. For more information about these accessories, contact your local Makita service center.

• Saw Chain
• Guide Bar Cover
• Guide Bar
• Chain Depth Gauge
• Round File 4.0 mm
• Round File 4.5 mm
• Flat File
• File Holder with 4.0 mm File
• File Holder with 4.5 mm File
• File Holder
• Chain Lubricating Oil
• Multi-purpose Grease
• Grease Gun

NOTE: Some items in the list may be included with the tool as standard accessories. Included accessories may vary by country.