Craftsman 9096-31B202 316350840 - Manual (Page 17)

SAW CHAIN TENSION ADJUSTMENT
Proper tension of saw chain is extremely important and
must be checked before starting, as well as during any
cutting operation.
Taking the time to make needed adjustments to the saw
chain will result in improved cutting performance and pro-
longed chain life.
To adjust the saw chain:
1. Loosen the bar retaining nut(s) (B, Fig. 27). Hold nose
of guide bar up and turn adjustment screw (D)
CLOCKWISE to increase chain tension. Turning screw
COUNTERCLOCKWISE will decrease amount of ten-
sion on chain. Ensure the chain fits snugly all the way
around the guide bar (Fig. 28).
Always use protective
gloves when handling
the saw chain.
WARNING:
A C B
Fig. 29
2. After making adjustment, and while still holding nose
of bar in the uppermost position, tighten the bar
retaining nuts securely. Chain has proper tension when
it has a snug fit all around and can be pulled around
by gloved hand.
NOTE: If chain is difficult to rotate on guide bar or if it
binds, too much tension has been applied. This
requires minor adjustment as follows:
A. Loosen the bar retaining nuts so they are hand tight.
Decrease tension by turning the bar adjustment screw
COUNTERCLOCKWISE slowly. Move chain back and
forth on bar. Continue to adjust until chain rotates
freely, but fits snugly. Increase tension by turning bar
adjustment screw CLOCKWISE.
B. When saw chain has proper tension, hold nose of bar
in uppermost position and tighten the bar retaining
nuts securely.
A new saw chain
stretches, requiring
adjustment after as few as 5 cuts. This is normal
with a new chain, and the interval between
future adjustments will lengthen quickly.
CAUTION:
If saw chain is
TOO
LOOSE or TOO
TIGHT, the sprocket, bar, chain, and crank-
shaft bearings will wear more rapidly. Study
Fig. 29 for information concerning correct
cold tension (A), correct warm tension (B),
and as a guide for when saw chain needs
adjustment (C).
CAUTION:
Fig. 30
CHAIN BRAKE MECHANICAL TEST
Your chain saw is equipped with a Chain Brake® that
reduces possibility of injury due to kickback. The brake is
activated if pressure is applied against brake lever when,
as in the event of kickback, operator’s hand strikes the
lever. When the brake is activated, chain movement stops
abruptly.
To Test the
Chain Brake® :
1. The Chain Brake® is DISENGAGED (chain can move)
when BRAKE LEVER IS PULLED BACK AND
LOCKED (A, Fig. 24).
2. The Chain Brake® is ENGAGED (chain is stopped)
when brake lever is in forward position. You should
not be able to move chain (B, Fig. 30).
NOTE: The brake lever should snap into both positions. If
strong resistance is felt, or lever does not move
into either position, do not use your saw. Take
your saw to a Sears or other qualified service
dealer.
The purpose of the
Chain Brake® is to
reduce the possibility of injury due to kick-
back; however, it cannot provide the intend-
ed measure of protection if the saw is oper-
ated carelessly.
Always test the Chain Brake® before using
your saw and periodically while on the job.
WARNING:
A
B
MAINTENANCE AND REPAIR INSTRUCTIONS
D
Fig. 28
17