Makita DCS230T Chainsaw User Manual


 
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Before starting work the chain saw must be checked for perfect function and operating safety according
to the prescriptions.
Check especially the function of the chain brake, the correct mounting of the guide bar, the correct sharpening
and tightening of the chain, the firm mounting of the sprocket guard, the easy motion of the throttle lever and the
function of the throttle lever lock, the cleanliness and dryness of the handles, and the function of the ON/OFF
switch.
- Put the chain saw only into operation if it is completely assembled. Never use the chain saw when it is not com-
pletely assembled.
- Before starting the chain saw ensure that you have a safe footing.
- Put the chain saw into operation only as described in this instruction manual (8). Other starting methods are not
allowed.
- When starting the chain saw it must be well supported and securely held. The guide bar and chain must not be in
contact with any object.
- When working with the chain saw always hold it with both hands. Take the rear handle with the right hand
and the tubular handle with the left hand. Hold the handles tightly with your thumbs facing your fingers. It is
extremely dangerous to work with one hand, as the saw can fall through the completed cut uncontrolled (high risk
of injury). Furthermore, it is impossible to control kickback with one hand.
- CAUTION: When releasing the throttle lever the chain will keep on running for a short period of time (free-
wheeling).
- Continuously ensure that you have a safe footing.
- Hold the chain saw such that you will not breathe in the exhaust gas. Do not work in closed rooms (danger of poi-
soning).
- Switch off the chain saw immediately if you observe any changes in its operating behavior.
- The engine must be switched off before checking the chain tension, tightening the chain, replacing it or
clearing malfunctions (9).
- When the sawing device is hit by stones, nails or other hard objects, switch off the engine immediately and check
the sawing device.
- When stopping work or leaving the working place switch off the chain saw (9) and put it down such that nobody is
endangered.
- Do not put the overheated power chain saw in dry grass or on any inflammable objects. The muffler is very hot
(danger of fire).
- CAUTION: Oil dropping from the chain or guide bar after having stopped the saw chain will pollute the soil.
Always use an appropriate base.
Kickback
- When working with the chain saw dangerous kickbacks may occur.
- Kickback occurs when the upper part of the end of the guide bar inadvertently touches wood or other hard
objects (10).
- Before the saw chain enters the cut, it can slip to the side or jump (caution: high risk of kickback).
- This causes the saw to be thrown back toward the user with great force and out of control. Risk of injury!
In order to prevent kickback, follow these rules:
- Only specially-trained persons should perform plunge cuts, i.e., piercing timber or wood with the tip of the saw!
- Always observe the end of the guide bar. Be careful when continuing an already started cut.
- When starting to cut the chain must be running.
- Ensure that the chain is always sharpened correctly. Pay special attention to the height of the depth limiter.
- Never cut several branches at the same time. When cutting a branch ensure that no other branch is touched.
- When crosscutting a trunk be aware of the trunks next to it.
Working behavior/Method of working
- Only use the chain saw during good light and visibility periods. Be aware of slippery or wet areas, and of ice and
snow (risk of slipping). The risk of slipping is extremely high when working on recently peeled wood (bark).
- Never work on unstable surfaces. Make sure that there are no obstacles in the working area, risk of stumbling.
Always ensure that you have a safe footing.
- Never saw above your shoulder height (11).
- Never saw while standing on a ladder (11).
- Never climb a tree and work without the appropriate restraining systems for the operator and the saw. We recom-
mend always working from a rising platform (cherry picker, lift).
- Do not work leaning too far over.
- Guide the chain saw in such a way that no part of your body is within the elongated swivelling range of the saw
(12).
- Use the chain saw for sawing wood only.
- Avoid touching the ground with the chain saw while it is still running.
- Never use the chain saw for lifting up or removing pieces of wood or other objects.
- Remove foreign objects such as sand, stones and nails found within the working area. Foreign objects may dam-
age the sawing device and can cause dangerous kickback.
- When sawing precut timber use a safe support (sawing jack, 13). Do not steady the workpiece with your foot, and
do not allow anyone else to hold or steady it.
- Secure round pieces against rotation.
- Before performing a crosscut firmly apply the front of the body to the timber, only then can the timber be cut with
the chain running. For this the chain saw is lifted at the rear handle and guided with the tubular handle. The front
of the body serves as a centre of rotation. Continue by slightly pressing down the tubular handle and simulta-
neously pulling back the chain saw. Apply the front of the body a little bit deeper and once again lift the rear han-
dle.
- When the timber must be pierced for cutting or longitudinal cuts are to be performed it is urgently recom-
mended to have this carried out by specially trained persons only (high risk of kickback).
-Do longitudinal - lengthwise - cuts at the lowest possible angle (14). Be very careful when doing this type of
cut, as the front body cannot grip.
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•MaintenaceMaintenace •Stopping workStopping work
•RefuellingRefuelling •TransportTransport
•Sharpening the chainSharpening the chain •Putting out of functionPutting out of function