CS38 / CS41 SELECT Chainsaw
16
Original Instructions Version July 16
CS38-41_130716
Kickback Safety Precautions
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. Top contact in some cases may cause a lightning
fast reverse reaction, kicking the guide bar up and back towards the operator. Pinching the saw
chain along the top of the guide bar may push the guide bar rapidly back towards the operator.
Either of these reactions may cause you to lose control of the saw which could result in serious
personal injury.
Do not rely exclusively on the safety devices built into your saw. As a chainsaw user you should take
several steps to keep cutting jobs free from accident or injury.
1.
With a basic understanding of kickback you can reduce or eliminate the element of
surprise. Sudden surprise contributes to accidents.
2.
Keep a good grip on the saw with both hands, the right hand on the rear handle, and
the left hand on the front handle, when the engine is running. Use a firm grip with
thumbs and fingers encircling the chainsaw handles. A firm grip will help you reduce
kickback and maintain control of the saw.
3.
Make certain that the area in which you are cutting is free from obstructions. Do not let
the nose of the guide bar contact a log, branch, or any other obstruction which could be
hit while you are operating the saw.
4.
Cut at high engine speeds.
5.
Do not overreach or cut above shoulder height.
6.
Follow the manufacturers sharpening and maintenance instructions for saw chain.
7.
Only use replacement bars and chains specified by the manufacturer.
It is important to maintain the proper chain tension. Rapid wear of the guide bar or
the chain coming off can be caused by improper tension, especially when using a new
chain.
