AL-KO BKS 4540, Translation Of The Original Operating Instructions

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Sawing
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It is not necessary to force the saw into the cut. Apply only light pres-
sure while running the engine at full throttle.
It is recommended that daily inspection before use and after dropping or
other impacts to identify significant damage or defects.
Racing the engine with the chain seized in a cutaway can damage the
clutch system. When the saw chain is caught in the cut, do not attempt
to pull it out by force, but use a wedge or a lever to open the cut.
Guard against kickback
This saw is also equipped with a chain brake that will stop the chain in
the event of kickback if operating properly. You must check the chain
brake operation before each usage by running the saw at full throttle
for 1 or 2 seconds and pushing the front hand guard forward. The chain
should stop immediately with the engine at full speed. If the chain is
slow to stop or does no stop then replace the brake band and clutch
drum before use.
It is extremely important that the chain brake be checked for proper
operation before each use and that the chain be sharp in order to main-
tain the kickback safety level of this saw. Removal of the safety devices,
inadequate maintenance, or incorrect replacement of the bar or chain
may increase the risk of serious personal injury due to kickback.
Felling a tree
1 Decide the felling direction considering the wind, lean of the tree,
location of heavy branches, ease of job after felling, and other factors.
2 While clearing the area around the tree, arrange a good foothold and
retreat path.
3 Make a notch cut one-third of the way into the tree on the felling side.
4 Make a felling cut from the opposite side of the notch and at a level
slightly higher than the bottom of the notch.
WARNING!
When you fell a tree, be sure to warn your neighboring workers
of the danger.
(A) Notch cut
(B) Felling cut
Logging and limbing
WARNING!
1 Always ensure your foothold as well as stability of the tree.
2 Be alert to the rolling over of a cut log.
3 Read the instructions in “For Safe Operation” to avoid kick-
back of the saw. Before starting work, check the direction of
bending force inside the log to be cut. Always finish cutting
from the opposite side of bending direction to prevent the
guide bar from being caught in the cutaway.
Cutting an unpillowed log
Saw down halfway, then roll the log over and cut from the opposite side.