10
CHAIN SAW’S SAFETY FUNCTION
WARNING:
• Following safety functions does NOT guarantee all time protection from injury.
Only proper usage and technique can reduce the risk of kickback and other
dangerous accidents.
• Always check the safety functions before use.
• If the chain saw fails any of the checking, switch off the engine immediately, and do
NOT use the chain saw. Contact Makita authorized service center.
Chain brake
The chain brake is designed to stop the chain to standstill within a fraction of a second.
It is activated when the kickback is sufficiently strong.
To engage the chain brake manually, push the front hand guard forward (forwards the
tip of the saw) with your left hand.
To release the chain brake, pull the front hand guard towards backward (towards you).
NOTICE:
• Do not accelerate the engine with the chain brake actuated (except for testing).
• Always release the chain brake before starting the operation.
Checking the chain brake
1. Run the engine at idle speed.
2. Hold the chain saw with both hands. Hold the top handle with your right hand,
the front handle with your left. Make sure that the guide bar and the chain do not
contact with any object.
3. Push the front hand guard using the back of your hand, until the chain brake
engages.
4. Accelerate till engine reaches full throttle for less than 3 seconds. Make sure that
the saw chain does not move at all.
5. Bring the engine back to idle and release the chain brake.
Checking the brake band
The brake band is at the back of the sprocket cover. Chain brake wears out in course
of time. Have it checked and serviced by Makita authorized service center at least
every 3 month.
Throttle trigger lock-out
Throttle trigger lock-out is designed to prevent accidental start. You can pull the throttle
trigger only when the throttle trigger lock-out is pressed (i.e. when you grasp the handle).
Checking throttle trigger lock-out
Check the throttle trigger lock-out returns its original position after releasing your hand
from the top handle.
Engine stop
Make sure that the engine stops when you intend to.
Checking the engine stop
Start the engine. Then release the throttle trigger, and press down the combination
switch to lower (O) position.
Chain catcher
Chain catcher is designed to catch the chain in case the saw chain jumps from the
guide bar. The saw chain should not jump if it is properly tensioned. Always check
and adjust the tension of the saw chain in accordance with this instruction manual.
Checking chain catcher
Check the chain catcher is not damaged and securely sits on the housing.
