CHAIN SAW

ENGLISH
SAFETY MANUAL

DANGER
Misuse may result in serious or fatal injuries. You must
read, understand, and follow these safety instructions
and the instructions in your Chain Saw Instruction Man-
ual before operating a Chain Saw.

DANGER
Chainsaw kickback can cause serious or fatal injuries. Read and
follow the instructions to avoid kickback. ECHO Incorporated offers
an optional anti-kick back guard called a Kick GuardTM Consult your
Echo dealer for details..

X752330002 7/19
 INTRODUCTION

WARNING
ENGLISH

Before using your saw, read this Safety Manual and your chain
saw instruction manual carefully. You must completely understand
and follow all safety rules, precautions, and operating instructions.
ECHO Incorporated recommends that you obtain and review the
supplemental Chain Saw Safety Video.
Congratulations on taking the right steps to learn basic chain saw safety. Over the
years, ECHO Incorporated has developed and improved technology to increase the
safety of chain saw use. However, chain saws are powerful cutting tools intended
to quickly cut trees and branches and to get the job done fast. Like other types of
outdoor cutting and wood working power equipment, the chain saw’s sharp, high-
speed cutters require that you operate the saw carefully to avoid serious or fatal
injury.
You must read and understand the specific chain saw instruction manual and
this safety manual. Before operating your gasoline or electric chain saw, you
must learn about the chain saw reactions, which can occur when cutting.
Unless noted, the safety rules presented apply to both gasoline and electric
chain saws.
This manual describes the hazards and risks associated with cutting, trimming,
felling, refueling and other activities involving use of a chain saw. Many vital
safety awareness tips are mentioned to help identify the dangers of using
chain saws, and to teach you the precautions to take to avoid injury. ECHO
Incorporated has also provided helpful information about cutting techniques to
make the tasks easier, more productive, and safer.
If you have any feelings that the tree removal or cutting task requires you to put
yourself, your property, or others at risk, please consider calling a professional
to handle the job. Tree trimming and felling mishaps can cause serious or fatal
injury to you, others, and possible damage to property.
Table of Contents
INTRODUCTION................................................................................................2
KEY CHAIN SAW TERMS.................................................................................3
SAFETY SYMBOLS AND WARNINGS.............................................................5
KICKBACK/ OPTIONAL KICK GUARDTM.......................................................10
FORCES YOU MUST CONTROL 10
SKATING 11
OPTIONAL KICK GUARD INSTALLATION 12
COMMON CAUSES OF KICKBACK 15
OPERATOR SAFETY......................................................................................21
FUELING..........................................................................................................29
OPERATION....................................................................................................33
SAFE WOOD CUTTING PRACTICES 33
PINCHING, BINDING & SPLITTING 34
PRUNING SHADE TREES AND CUTTING SAPLINGS 35
FELLING TREES 36
LIMBING AND BUCKING 39
FELLING VERY LARGE TREES 40
BOW SAW WARNING 42
ELECTRIC CHAIN SAW SAFETY...................................................................43
NOTES.............................................................................................................45
2
 KEY CHAIN SAW TERMS

ENGLISH
Ballistic A special material used in protection devices designed to
reduce the risk of penetration from chain contact.
Binding Closing of the cut or shifting of the wood, possibly
trapping the saw blade in the cut. Binding includes
pinching. (Also, see PINCH.)
Chain Catcher A projection designed to reduce the risk of the operator’s
right hand from being hit by a chain, which has broken or
derailed from the guide bar during cutting.
Chain Tensioner The device which permits precise adjustment of the chain
tension.
Chaps Specially designed leg protection, which can reduce the
risk of injury due to contact with a moving saw chain.
Follow Through After the chain saw completes a cut and is no longer
supported by the wood, an uncontrolled chain saw can
continue on its path and strike the legs, feet or body of
the operator.
Front Hand This required device is intended to reduce the operator’s
Guard risk of injury from projecting branches and saw-chain
contact with the left hand in the event the operator loses
his grip from the upper part of the handle.
Guide Bar The grooved bar that supports and guides the saw chain.
Kerf The grooved cut produced by the saw chain cutters.
Kickback The general term describing rotational and linear
kickback, two highly dangerous reactions which can
occur when operating a chain saw. When used alone
in this manual, the term “kickback” refers to rotational
kickback. To prevent kickback, keep the bar nose
properly covered with the optional Kick GuardTM device.
If the optional Kick Guard device is absent, kickback can
occur if the unshielded bar nose touches an object or the
ground.
Rotational The violent reaction which can occur when the chain at
Kickback the upper section of the nose is suddenly stopped or
impeded, thereby dangerously driving the bar nose in an
upward arc toward the operator.
Linear Kickback A push reaction, which can occur under certain
conditions with the guide bar buried in the cut when the
cut closes, pinching the chain along the top rails of the
guide bar and propelling the chain saw straight back
toward the operator.
Kick Guard Optional Anti-kickback device attached to the bar nose.
Device

3
 KEY CHAIN SAW TERMS

Pinch Specifically the closing-in of the wood which pinches and

stops the chain along the top rails of the guide bar during
ENGLISH

a cut. This can result in the chain saw being propelled

straight back toward the operator (called a Linear
Kickback). Pinch can also occur on the lower rails of the
bar, resulting in the chain saw being pulled away from the
operator.
Push And Pull When cutting is done along the bottom rails of the guide
bar, the reaction on the saw is to pull away from the
operator. When the top of the guide bar is used, the
reaction pushes the saw towards the operator. Both
are normal reactions which must be controlled by the
operator.
Reduced- Guide bars which are recognized by the ANSI Standard
Kickback Guide B175.1 as having as small or reduced radius nose to
Bar reduce the potential kickback area.
Low Or Saw chain which has been demonstrated to reduce
Reduced- kickback on a selected group of chain saw models during
Kickback Saw ANSI testing. Before using “reduced kickback” chain,
Chain ask your dealer to determine if your chain saw can
accommodate “reduced-kickback” chain and still meet
the 45-degree CKA requirement explained on page 17.
Skating When the chain saw fails to dig in during a cut, the guide
bar can begin hopping or dangerously skidding along the
surface of the log or branch, possibly resulting in the loss
of control of the chain saw. To prevent or reduce skating,
hold the chain saw with two hands and make sure the
saw chain establishes a groove for cutting.
Throttle Trigger Located in the rear handle, it is used to control the speed
of the engine.
Throttle Trigger The control used on some chain saws to set the throttle
Latch Button for a fast idle speed, which may be required to start a
cold engine. The throttle can be unlatched by squeezing
and releasing the throttle trigger.
Throttle Trigger A safety lever on the top of the top/rear handle which
Lockout Lever must be depressed before the throttle trigger can be
activated. When the operator lets go of the top/rear
handle, the throttle will be locked in idle position.

4
 SAFETY SYMBOLS AND WARNINGS
These important safety symbols are used throughout this manual and may also
appear on your chain saw. They are provided to make you aware of potential

ENGLISH
hazards, and the precautions you must take to protect yourself from injury.
You must read and understand the explanations, and obey the instructions.
These symbols appear on safety labels as a reminder to follow these important
precautions whenever you are transporting, fueling, operating, servicing, or
handling your saw.

Circle/Slash Prohibition Symbol

This symbol means that the specific action shown is prohibited.
Ignoring these prohibitions can result in serious or fatal injury.

Safety Alert Symbol

The Safety Alert symbol is used to alert you to potential
personal injury hazards. To avoid serious or fatal injuries,
obey all safety messages that follow this symbol.

Safety Alert Symbol/DANGER Signal Word

The safety alert symbol appearing with the word “Danger!”
calls attention to a hazard which will result in death or DANGER
serious injury if not avoided.

Safety Alert Symbol/WARNING Signal Word

The safety alert symbol appearing with the word
“Warning!” calls attention to a hazard which could result WARNING
in death or serious injury if not avoided.

Safety Alert Symbol/CAUTION Signal Word

The safety alert symbol appearing with the word
“Caution!” calls attention to a hazard which could result CAUTION
in minor or moderate injury if not avoided.

NOTICE signal word only. (No safety alert symbol)

The word “NOTICE” calls attention to a situation which may
result in property or equipment damage if the information that NOTICE
is provided is not followed .

Read Instruction Manual

Read instruction manual carefully and follow rules for safe
operation.Failure to do so could result in serious or fatal injury.

5
 SAFETY SYMBOLS AND WARNINGS
Wear Head, Eye, And Hearing Protection
Wear Eye (ANSI Z-87.1), Ear, and Head Protection that meet ANSI
ENGLISH

requirements

Wear Protective Clothing

Wear cut-resistant protective foot-wear and leg protection. Chain-
saw leg chaps, or pants with ballistic or cut-resistant fabric may
help reduce the risk of injury due to chain contact.

Hot Surfaces Symbol

Contact with hot surfaces can cause serious burns.

Chain Brake Symbol

Arrows show how to engage or disengage chain brake. Push
chain brake lever (front hand guard) all the way forward to
engage, pull back to disengage.

Stop Symbol
Indicates the Stop position for the engine ignition switch (Stop). STOP

Ignition Switch On/Off Positions Ignition

Indicates the ignition ON/OFF positions for the engine ignition ON OFF
switch (Stop Switch).

DANGER!
Kickback hazard. Do not allow guide bar tip to contact
objects. Allowing an unguarded guide bar tip to touch any
object during cutting may cause the guide bar to suddenly
kick up and back toward the operator, a forceful reaction
called rotational kickback. Body contact with a moving saw
chain will cause serious or fatal injury.

DANGER!
Prevent hazardous Rotational Kickback! Install the
optional Kick GuardTM anti-kickback bar tip guard in
cutting applications where bar tip contact with solid
objects or surfaces cannot be avoided.

6
 SAFETY SYMBOLS AND WARNINGS

DANGER!
Follow Kick-back prevention instructions to reduce risk

ENGLISH
of kick-back injury when cutting without optional Kick
GuardTM.

WARNING!
Never operate a chain saw using a one-handed grip. Always
use a secure, two-handed grip!

WARNING!
Always control saw firmly with 2 hands to prevent loss of
control and kick back if saw begins skating.

WARNING!
Always use proper positioning! Keep your body out of cutting
plane at all times!

WARNING!
Do not over-reach or cut above shoulder height! Gravity
may cause the saw to drop toward your legs and feet
when the cut is complete. To avoid injury, maintain control
of the saw after finishing a cut.

WARNING!
Use firm, two-handed control grip with thumb encircling
handle.

WARNING!
Always use reduced kickback saw chain! Ask your dealer to equip your saw
only with certified low- or reduced kickback saw chain.

WARNING!
Carrying or transporting a chain saw with a moving chain is hazardous. Turn
saw off, or allow the chain to stop, and engage the chain brake when carrying
the saw.

7
 SAFETY SYMBOLS AND WARNINGS

WARNING!
Do not operate chain saw while on a ladder, unless you are a
ENGLISH

trained professional.

WARNING!
Keep hands and arms away from moving chain. Do not reach near a moving
chain to grab or remove the material that you are cutting.

WARNING!
Do Not cut overhead. The cut material or chain saw can fall on you, causing
serious injury.

WARNING!
Do Not use a chain saw with a loose chain. A loose chain can be thrown off
the guide bar, and cause serious injury.

WARNING!
Do Not use a chain saw that has been modified or is in disrepair.

DANGER!
Do not use bowsaws! Use of bowsaws can cause
extreme kickback and serious or fatal injuries.

WARNING!
Do not allow anyone to use your chain saw without first reading the Instruction
and Safety manuals.

WARNING!
Never operate a chain saw that is damaged, improperly adjusted, incorrectly
assembled, or missing parts.

WARNING!
Do not operate a chain saw while up in a tree.

WARNING!
Do not use an open grip!

8
 SAFETY SYMBOLS AND WARNINGS

WARNING!
Keep helpers and bystanders away from the area where

ENGLISH
you are cutting. Never let a helper hold material you are
planning to cut. Serious injury can occur.

WARNING!
Use proper ground starting procedure. Do not “drop
start!”

WARNING!
Cutting a tree or branch under tension may cause it to
spring back suddenly and strike you or the saw, causing
serious or fatal injuries.

WARNING!
Cutting the trunk of an uprooted tree can cause the
root ball to fall back into place, causing serious or fatal
injuries.

WARNING!
Use extreme caution when handling fuel and refueling your chain saw.
Gasoline is extremely flammable and can cause serious burns. Keep away
from open flames or sparks. Check fuel cap for damage or leaking. Repair or
replace leaky cap before using saw!

WARNING!
Never cut near power lines!

WARNING!
Use a firm, two-handed control grip with thumb
encircling handle.

9
 KICKBACK/ OPTIONAL KICK GUARDTM

FORCES YOU MUST PULL

CONTROL
ENGLISH

This section explains the forces which must be

controlled to avoid injury when operating either
a gas or electric-powered chain saw. Always CUTTING ON BOTTOM OF
remember that your best defenses are to GUIDE BAR PULLS SAW
exercise caution and use the chain saw properly, AWAY FROM YOU
and to be prepared to react to these forces
PULL, PUSH and KICKBACK are terms for the
direction a reaction takes.
PUSH
PULL - When you are cutting on top of a log with
the lower portion of the chain moving toward CUTTING ON TOP OF
you, the chain saw will be pulled into the wood GUIDE BAR PUSHES SAW
and away from you. TOWARD YOU
PUSH - Cutting on the underside of a log pushes WOOD
the chain saw toward you.
FORCE
PUSH and PULL forces are controlled by
anticipating which reaction will happen
and adjusting your position and stance to
compensate. REACTION
ROTATIONAL KICKBACK
When the chain is moving downward around ROTATIONAL
the upper nose of the bar, solid contact there KICKBACK
may drive the bar tip upward in an arc toward
you. This is an extremely dangerous reaction
called Rotational Kickback. When used alone
in this manual, the term kickback will always
refer to the rotational kickback.
CHAIN MOVING
Rotational kickback is predictable, DOWNWARD AT IMPACT
preventable and controllable. If the operator is
not alert to the possibility of a kickback, it may
come as a complete surprise. The possibility
of kickback can be greatest if the chain is not
a low- or reduced kickback type, or if the bar is
not a reduced-kickback type. The best defense
against rotational kickback is making sure the
chain does not contact anything solid at the
upper nose of the bar. This can be assured by ROTATIONAL KICKBACK
proper installation of the ptional Kick GuardTM
device.
PINCH
LINEAR KICKBACK
A sudden PUSH reaction that occurs when the
chain along the top rails of the bar gets pinched
in a cut. This type of reaction pushes the chain
saw straight back toward the operator. The
optional Kick Guard device on your bar nose PINCHING TOP OF GUIDE
acts as a stop against this type of kickback by BAR CAUSES LINEAR
PUSH OR KICKBACK
stopping the guide bar.
10
 KICKBACK/ OPTIONAL KICK GUARDTM
FORCE OF GRAVITY & “FOLLOW THROUGH”
Gravity is always present and you must be

ENGLISH
prepared for it when you are operating a
chain saw. During the cutting operation, the
weight of the chain saw is supported by the
material being cut. When the saw completes
the cut, the saw is no longer supported, and
the operator must control both the weight
and the downward momentum of the saw.
Never reach too far out with the saw. If you
reach too far out with the saw, you may be
unable to control it. Maintain a proper grip,
a balanced stance, and good footing. Never DO NOT OVER REACH TO
cut when you are off balance – the sudden MAKE A CUT
burden of supporting the weight of the saw
could cause you to fall or lose control of the
saw. Make no cuts above chest height where
control may be more difficult.
IMPORTANT: When you’re about to complete a cut on an elevated tree branch
or limb, be ready to release the throttle and support the chain saw so that the
guide bar and moving chain will not “follow through” and cut into your legs,
feet, or body after the guide bar breaks into the clear.

SKATING
This condition occurs when the saw chain
does not dig in properly when starting a
cut, and does not start a defined groove
as it attempts to penetrate the wood.
The guide bar then begins “hopping” or
skidding side-to-side along the surface.
When this occurs, you do not have full
control of the chain saw, and the bar
nose could strike something and cause
a kickback. If you are holding the chain
saw with one hand and a branch with the
other, the chain saw could skate laterally BEWARE OF SKATING
into your hand holding the branch. To
prevent or reduce skating, always hold the
chain saw with two hands, and make sure
the saw chain has established a groove
for cutting. For gasoline-powered units,
throttling down the chain speed may help
the chain get grooved, but once the chain
is grooved, throttle up the chain speed to complete the cut.

11
 KICKBACK/ OPTIONAL KICK GUARDTM

OPTIONAL KICK GUARD TM INSTALLATION

ENGLISH

DANGER!
Chain saw kickback is an extremely dangerous reaction. Kickback
can cause serious, or fatal injuries!
OPTIONAL KICK GUARD ANTI-KICKBACK BAR TIP
GUARD
This is an anti-kickback device that covers the bar nose to
prevent chain contact at the kickback-generating area of the
nose. The bar tip guard is called the optional Kick Guard
device. With the device properly mounted on the bar nose, optional Kick
rotational kickback cannot occur. The device will also halt Guard
linear kickback. (See definitions of rotational and linear
kickback.
The optional Kick Guard device
is not icluded when you purchase
your chain saw. Optional
It is the operator’s responsibility to decide Kick Guard
upon the safest cutting approach for the Prevents
job being done. If you think the optional Rotational
Kickback!
Kick Guard limits or obstructs the cutting
operation and you decide to use the saw
without the guard, it is your responsibility to know how
to operate the saw safely. This manual provides safety
information to operate with and without the optional Kick
Guard.
The optional Kick Guard can be used in a majority of
cutting operations, and is especially recommended for
beginners, homeowners, or chain saw novices. However,
it is designed to be removable to allow the saw to be used
without the device. Use of the saw without the optional Kick
Guard device requires a higher level of caution on the part
of the operator. Study the information and precautions in this manual carefully
to learn how to operate the saw safely. Contact ECHO Incorporated if you have
any questions, or if you do not understand the information.
Use the optional Kick Guard in cutting applications where the bar’s tip
may come into contact with solid objects or surfaces. Most cutting
operations can be accomplished with the optional Kick Guard in place.
ECHO Incorporated HIGHLY RECOMMENDS the use of the optional Kick
Guard Device:
• If you are a beginner or novice chain saw user.
• If you are cutting in or around adjacent brush, small saplings, trees, or other
solid objects that can be contacted by the bar tip.
• If it is possible that the tip of the saw may come in contact with an adjacent
object such as a log, other trees, branches, root, stump, fence, post, wall,
rocks, nails etc.

12
 KICKBACK/ OPTIONAL KICK GUARDTM
• If you can’t see the tip of the saw and it may come in contact with another
object, such as in a log pile, brushy area, or dense leafy area.

ENGLISH
• If you are limbing a tree and can’t see the tip due to leaves or other debris
blocking the view.
• If you have any concern that the cutting you will be doing may have an
increased risk of tip contact.

Conditions which may require not using optional Kick

GuardTM
In any circumstance, it is your responsibility to learn how to minimize the
risk of kickback if you are using the saw without the optional Kick Guard
in place.
Even if you have prior experience with safe chain saw operation, or are trained
in the prevention of kickback, please use extreme caution if you choose not
to purchase the optional Kick Guard, or if you decide to remove it. If you plan
to use the saw without the
optional Kick Guard device
to facilitate cutting, refer to
the section “Operating Saw
Without optional Kick Guard
Device”. Limit
imposed MAXIMUM Limit
by imposed
The optional Kick Guard DIAMETER by saw
is ideal for most cutting kick
guard bumper
applications, but should
not be installed in
situations such as:
• Felling trees that are larger in diameter than the working length of the guide bar.
• Cutting trees and logs that are larger in diameter than the effective cutting
length of the bar (dimension from engine to the inside of the optional Kick
Guard).
• To remove a bound saw out from a cut log.
• To draw the bar nose through a cut.
• Making a boring cut into a log or tree. (Professional Users Only)
• To remove a saw when a wedge is being used.
ECHO Incorporated has incorporated additional technology to help minimize
the risk of kickback, such as reduced kickback chain, reduced kickback guide
bar, and the chain brake system. These other devices only reduce kick back
forces, and do not guarantee the prevention of kickback or kickback injuries.
Only a properly installed optional Kick Guard absolutely prevents all
rotational kick back.
If you use the saw without the optional Kick Guard, you can prevent
injury from kickback by: avoiding contact with solid objects at the
upper tip of the guide bar; properly positioning yourself out of the line
of the guide bar; and using a firm, two-handed grip. It is solely your
responsibility to take these precautions.
Prevent Rotational Kickback!
13
 KICKBACK/ OPTIONAL KICK GUARDTM
Operating Saw With the optional Kick GuardTM
WARNING! Study your safety and instruction manuals, and be sure you
ENGLISH

understand how to keep control of the chain saw either with or without the
optional Kick Guard device.
WARNING! The optional Kick Guard device prevents rotational kickback
when properly installed, but it cannot prevent other chain saw mishaps. Always
wear protective articles such as cut-resistant boots, gloves, and leg chaps,
and proper attire for chain sawing. Use the correct two-handed grip on the saw
handles at all times. Position the saw properly with the cutting plane away from
the body, and maintain a balanced body position to the left of the saw.
Check that the optional Kick Guard is correctly
installed before each use, and is fastened securely to
the guide bar.
Illustrations below show various applications, which
can be performed effectively and safely when the
optional Kick Guard device is in place on the bar
nose. Notice that the device is often used to protect
the saw chain, as well as adjacent objects such as
walls, fences and trees. The optional Kick Guard
often can be used against an obstruction as a KICK GUARD ALLOWS
bumper plate. KICKBACK FREE
CUTTING NEAR
Using the optional Kick Guard when cutting in a brush MASONRY, FENCES,
pile eliminates the threat of kickback and helps speed ETC.
up brush removal. Cutting brush requires that you be
alert for brush and branches that may be whipped back at you.
Even when using the optional Kick Guard device, you must be alert to control
the saw against the forces of gravity, push, pull and “skating.” Maintain good
footing and balance. Reaching above chest height is extremely hazardous.
Twisting and falling limbs are a hazard, which must always be anticipated.
Before buying a new guide bar or new saw chain, check first with your dealer
to be sure the new configuration can be mounted to your chain saw.

OPTIONAL KICK GUARD APPLICATIONS

A BUMPER ALLOWS SCYTHING ALLOWS SAFE

AGAINST ACTION TO REMOVE CUTTING IN BRUSH
OBSTRUCTION. BRUSH PILE.

ALLOWS SAFE CUTTING NEAR PROTECTS CHAIN FROM GROUND

OTHER TREES WHEN FLUSH CUTTING.

14
 KICKBACK/ OPTIONAL KICK GUARDTM
Operating Saw Without the optional Kick GuardTM
DANGER!

ENGLISH
IF YOU DECIDE NOT TO USE THE OPTIONAL KICK GUARD, BE AWARE
OF THE INCREASED RISK OF KICKBACK DUE TO THE BAR NOSE NOT
BEING PROTECTED. PREVENT KICKBACK YOURSELF. DON’T LET THE
BAR TIP CONTACT ANYTHING!
Study the following illustrations related to kickback, and never make
these kinds of errors!

COMMON CAUSES OF KICKBACK

KICKBACK

KICKBACK IMPROPER
INSERTION INTO
A PREVIOUS
CUT. BAR
TIP CONTACT
CAUSES
UPPER BAR TIP KICKBACK.
CONTACT WITH
ANY OBJECT PINCH
KICKBACK
KICKBACK

CHAIN PINCHED
IN CLOSING
KICKBACK CUT, OR CHAIN
CONTACT TO
UPPER BAR TIP OBJECT
CONTACT WITH
ANOTHER LOG
OR BRANCH.
MOVING OUT OF CUT
WHILE CHAIN RUNNING.
CONTACT TO SIDE OF CUT.

WARNING! Hold the saw firmly with both

hands. Make sure your left thumb is always on the
underside of the front handle. Never over the top!
Keep your left arm straight with the elbow locked
to prepare for any sudden or unexpected reaction
of the chain saw, and to maintain better control.
WARNING! Do not let the tip or nose of the
saw come near any solid object while the chain is
rotating. Never let the saw dip into the ground. DON’T CROWD THE SAW

15
 KICKBACK/ OPTIONAL KICK GUARDTM

WARNING! Keep your body out of the path of a potential kickback as

follows:
ENGLISH

BODY ENTIRELY TO
• When making any vertical PLANE ONE SIDE OF PLANE
(bucking) cut, keep your body to OF CHAIN OF CHAIN ROTATION
the left of the guide bar, out of ROTATION
the plane of chain rotation.
• When making felling cuts, STRONG
alongside the tree so that the LEFT
direction and path of a kickback ARM AND
would be away from and not ELBOW
toward your body. If necessary, POSITION
THUMB FOR
angle the cut to keep your body ON UNDER
out of the kickback path, and GOOD
SIDE OF CONTROL
be extra careful to keep the bar HANDLE
nose in the clear. BAR
• During all cutting, do not bend
towards or otherwise “crowd” the
guide bar. Cut only one piece of GOOD CONTROL
wood at a time.
WARNING! Do not thrust the nose of the saw into a pile of branches or
dense brush where you cannot see whether the nose is in the clear. A high
risk of kickback exists under such conditions. INSTALL THE OPTIONAL KICK
GUARDTM DEVICE before attempting such applications.
When starting a cut, be ready to control any tendency of the saw to skate as
it attempts to penetrate the wood. Kickback will be a secondary reaction if the
nose bar skates into something.
When completing an bucking cut, be ready to hold up the saw as it breaks into
the clear, so it will not follow through and cut your legs, feet or body, or contact
an obstruction and kick back.
WARNING!! Limit your cutting to the range within which you can fully
control the saw. Don’t reach out when cutting. Forces of gravity, falling
branches or wood can cause you to lose your balance and increase the risk
of injury. Don’t make any cut above chest height, because a saw is difficult to
control under such conditions. It can kick back or fall on you.
WARNING! There is always an element of danger in boring, even when
done by experts. Until you have become an experienced operator do not
attempt to plunge cut or bore with the nose of the saw.
Make limbing and pruning cuts one at a time. Whenever possible, stand on the
opposite side of the tree from limbs being cut, so the tree is a barrier between
you, the saw, and the falling material.

16
 KICKBACK/ OPTIONAL KICK GUARDTM
Additional Safety Devices Designed to Reduce the
Risk of Injury from Kickback

ENGLISH
Your chain saw and its operator’s manual have been certified to meet
the requirements of Voluntary Standard B175.1 of the American National
Standards Institute (ANSI). B175.1 sets forth the minimum safety requirements
for the manufacture of gasoline-powered chain saws.
ANSI B175.1 addresses rotational kickback, which can occur when the chain
saw tip contacts an object and propels the saw upward and rearward toward
the operator at rapid speeds. Kickback can cause severe and even fatal
injuries. ANSI B175.1 requires that chain saws with an engine displacement
of under 3.8 cubic inches (62.3CC) have a maximum Computed Kickback
Angle (CKA) no greater than 45 degrees. CKA is computed (under laboratory
conditions) from a kickback test machine, plus other data including the
dimensions of the chain saw. Any deviation from laboratory conditions may
result in a higher CKA; and thus require chain saws in this class to have at
least two of the following devices to reduce the risk of injury from kickback:
anti-kick tip guard which mounts at the nose of the guide bar, chain brake,
reduced kickback chain, or reduced kickback guide bar. Learn which specific
devices are included on your saw model.
CHAIN BRAKE: Chain Brake
When activated, this device is intended to stop Lever
the saw chain rotation immediately after a
kickback has occurred. A chain brake does not
prevent kickback.
The chain brake can be activated both manually
and automatically. Manual chain brake
engagement occurs if the operator’s left hand or wrist applies a force against
the front hand guard, which is part of the brake lever. Automatically activated
chain brakes are intended to respond to kickback accelerations without brake
lever contact. These are sometimes called inertia brakes, which respond to a
certain level of acceleration, and do not require manual activation by the hand
guard lever. Chain saws combine both hand guard lever and inertia chain
brakes. Review your instruction manual or contact ECHO Incorporated to find
out the specifications of your saw model.
WARNING! It is the responsibility of the owner or operator to ensure
that the brake is serviced, adjusted, and tested in accordance with the
instructions as detailed in your instruction manual in order to ensure that the
brake performance is maintained in compliance with ANSI B175.1- 2000, which
stipulates that the brake shall stop the chain in a maximum of 0.15 seconds
after activation (0.12 Average).
WARNING! Do not rely on the chain brake for protection against
kickback. The chain brake may never activate; and even if it does, its chain-
stopping capability, even under ideal conditions, may not be fast enough to
prevent injury to the operator due to the rapid dynamics of a kickback.
Even with a chain brake, depend on your own good sense and proper cutting
methods just as though there were no chain brake. Additionally, even with
normal use and proper maintenance, the initial stopping time of the chain brake
may increase, or the chain brake may become incapable of stopping the saw

17
 KICKBACK/ OPTIONAL KICK GUARDTM
chain, or stopping times may become inconsistent. Eventually, a major rebuild
or complete replacement of the chain brake may be required for the chain
ENGLISH

brake to meet the ANSI B175.1 Standard.

The following may interfere with the chain brake’s ability to reduce the risk of
injury to the operator:
• Saw wrongly held too close to operator’s body (no fault of the brake).
Kickback may occur faster than a perfectly maintained brake can be
activated.
• The operator’s hand may not be in position to contact the hand guard. Brake
will not be tripped.
• In the case of certain kickbacks, such as in a low intensity kickback, the
inertia brake may not activate as intended because forces are below the
required activation level. Loss of control of the saw still may occur!
• Lack of proper maintenance increases the chain brake’s stopping time,
making it less effective.
• Dirt, grease, oil, pitch, etc. getting into the working parts of the mechanism
may increase the stopping time or render the chain brake inoperable.
• Improper assembly of the chain brake to the chain saw may render the
brake inoperable.
• Wear and fatigue of the activating brake band or spring, and/or wear of the
brake/clutch drum and pivot points may lengthen the brake’s stopping time
or render the chain brake inoperable.
Chain brakes are designed to retain stopping times as close as possible to
their original times, however periodic cleaning and or adjustment are required
for the brake to perform properly.
The brake linkage is in a compartment designed
to shield out sawdust and oil. The brake and
surrounding area will require regular and frequent
cleaning. There will be a time when adjustment
cannot compensate for wear. Your servicing dealer Reduced Kickback Chain
will be able to tell you when parts replacement or a complete brake assembly
replacement is necessary. The Chain Brake is a device which cannot be
replaced on your saw by another brand chain brake.
LOW OR REDUCED-KICKBACK SAW CHAIN
Low-kickback saw chain meets the kickback
performance requirements of ANSI B175.1. Before
using “reduced kickback” chain, see your dealer GUARD
to determine if your chain saw can accommodate LINKS
“reduced-kickback” chain and still meet the
45-degree CKA requirement. Always use the proper
replacement chain recommended for your saw.
The low-kickback saw chain on your saw has depth gauges and guard links to
reduce kickback. Depth gauges control the depth of cut. The guard links help
to prevent the cutters from digging in too deeply at the bar nose. Low-kickback
chain tends to resist penetration of the bar tip, which is the cause of kickback;
however, the chain may “skate” along the surface of the wood. Skating the
nose bar into an obstruction could result in a kickback.

18
 KICKBACK/ OPTIONAL KICK GUARDTM
Low-kickback chain may gradually lose some of its kickback-reduction ability
even when properly filed. The following items will cause it to lose its kickback

ENGLISH
reduction ability rapidly:
• Depth gauges not set uniformly to correct depth.
• Cutters dull or uneven in filing angle or length.
• Cutters have been filed to a forward hook.
• Chain runs too loose on the bar.
• Worn chain repaired with new cutters or side links, causing some cutters to
take a larger bite than the others.
NOTE: Proper chain tension cannot be maintained if:
• Drive sprocket is worn.
• Guide bar is improperly clamped to the chain saw.
• Tension adjuster has not engaged the guide bar, thus causing the guide-bar
to shift.
• Bar rails are in poor condition.
• Guide bar and chain are improperly lubricated.
REDUCED-KICKBACK GUIDE BAR
In general, guide bars that meet this
requirement, have small or reduced-radius
noses. All guide bars with reduced nose
radius have been machined to accept a bar SYMMETRICAL REDUCED
tip guard. (Some large radius bars may not RADIUS
accept a tip guard.)
REDUCED-KICKBACK GUIDE BAR
AND OPTIONAL KICK GUARDTM
DEVICE
These devices both provide strong protection BANNANA NOSE REDUCED
against kickback. As stated previously, there RADIUS
can be no rotational kickback when the
optional Kick Guard device is properly assembled on the bar nose. Linear
kickback will be stopped if the device is drawn against the wood. Your chain
saw may be equipped with either the more common symmetrical nose bar or
an asymmetrical nose bar. The symmetrical nose bar can have a sprocket or
welded tip. The asymmetrical nose bar is shaped differently and is commonly
referred to as a “banana-nose bar.” The ability of these bars to partially
reduce kickback is possible because the kickback-generating zone of the bar
nose is small. If you wish to equip your chain saw with any bar other than
manufacturer-approved bars, be sure it falls within limitations specified for your
chain saw, is designated “Reduced-kickback Guide Bar,” and is machined to
permit installation of an optional Kick Guard device. The optional Kick Guard
device works properly only when it fits correctly on the bar. A bent or damaged
optional Kick Guard device must be replaced. Do not use a replacement guide
bar that does not have proper mounting holes for the optinoal Kick Guard
device.

19
 KICKBACK/ OPTIONAL KICK GUARDTM
It is always safer to cut with the optional Kick Guard installed. If you believe
it is not practical to use the optional Kick Guard in certain situations, it is your
ENGLISH

responsibility to use other means to control kick back. ECHO Incorporated

recommends use of the optional Kick Guard wherever possible.
Normal wear, as well as lack of maintenance or cleaning, will reduce both saw
performance and the ability of the guide bar to reduce kickback. Inadequate
lubrication can wear bar rails. Non-uniform chain filing can wear the rails to
an uneven height. In particular, uneven height or worn-down rails and wear
inside the bar rails can permit excessive cutter side play, creating a lack of
chain alignment and increasing the probability of kickback. Inspect guide bar
for uneven or excessive wear or damage before each use, and replace bar if
worn, deformed, or damaged. See Chain Saw Instruction Manual for correct
bar/chain combinations.
GUIDE BAR RAIL DAMAGE- TIME TO REPLACE
ORIGINAL DEPTH

EVEN WEAR UNEVEN

TOO DEEP WEAR
INSIDE WEAR OR PINCHED
GUIDE BAR WEAR SPREAD CAUSES GUIDE
CUTTER SIDE PLAY BAR

20
 OPERATOR SAFETY
PHYSICAL CONDITION
Chain saw work and the associated clearing of

ENGLISH
branches and logs is a strenuous activity. You should
be in good physical and mental health in order to
handle your chain saw safely. Errors in judgment can
be serious or fatal. If you have any physical condition
which strenuous work could worsen, check with your
physician before using a chain saw. DO NOT OPERATE
UNDER THE
Take frequent breaks and drink fluids, especially in INFLUENCE OF
warmer weather. Do not operate when ill, fatigued, ANY SUBSTANCE
upset, or under the influence of any substance or
medication which could affect your vision, dexterity or
judgment.

PERSONAL EQUIPMENT
Always wear eye protection eyewear with adequate WEAR PROTECTIVE
top and side protection conforming to the ANSI Z87.1 Z-87.1 EYEWEAR
Standard when operating a chain saw (Z87 is stamped
on the eyewear). ANSI Z87.1 certifies protective
eyewear to limited, but protective resistance levels,
to debris. Wood chips, dust, snapping branches and
other debris can be tossed by the cutting chain into the
operator’s facial area. Z87 safety eyewear may also
offer limited protection in the event of the cutting chain
hitting the operator in the eye area. If conditions warrant
that a ventilated face shield be worn, always wear COMBINATION EAR,
protective eyewear underneath. HEAD AND FACE
PROTECTION
Also, ECHO Incorporated recommends wearing
hearing protection at all times. If not followed, hearing
loss can occur. You should reduce the risk of hearing
damage by wearing either “headset” type protectors or
approved ear plugs. (Note: Stuffing ears with cotton is
not recommended.) All persons who make part of their
living using chain saws should be tested periodically for
hearing deterioration. PROTECT
YOURSELF AGAINST
WARNING! Never wear loose clothing, HEARING DAMAGE.
unbuttoned jackets, flared sleeves and cuffs, scarves, WEAR EAR PLUGS
tie strings, neckties, cords, chains, jewelry, etc. which FOR HEARING
could snag the saw chain or underbrush. Avoid short PROTECTION
pants.
WARNING! Never operate a chain saw when
you are alone. Arrange to have someone remain within
calling distance in case you need help.

NO OPEN-TOED
SHOES, OR LOOSE
FITTING CLOTHING.

21
 OPERATOR SAFETY
A safety “hard hat” is highly recommended when felling or working
under trees, or when objects can fall on you. Wear heavy duty,
ENGLISH

non slip gloves for improved grip, and also for protection against
cold and vibration.
Cut resistant, high top safety tip shoes or boots with non slip soles
should be worn. Clothing should be of sturdy, protective material.
It should be snug-fitting to resist snagging, but roomy enough for
freedom of movement. Trouser legs should not be flared or cuffed,
and should be either tucked into the boot tops. Safety vests,
chain saw protective leg chaps, or logger’s pants of ballistic nylon
material are available. It is the operator’s responsibility to wear
such additional protection if conditions warrant it.

VITAL SAFETY GEAR TO WEAR WHEN CUTTING:

Hard Hat

Hearing Protection Eye Protection ANSI Z-87 Hard Hat

Eyewear
Trim, protective
clothing Elbow as
straight as
Non-Slip possible
Gloves Protective Hearing
Protective, Gloves Protection
Thumb Under non-slip
Handle Bar footwear
No Pants cuffs
to snag in
underbrush Cut Cut
Resistant Resistant
Leg Chaps Steel-Toe
Boots

PRECAUTIONS IN HOT, HUMID WEATHER

Heavy logger’s clothing can cause overheating and increase the risk of
operator fatigue. Heat stroke is possible. Under these adverse conditions,
you must judge whether wearing heavy protective clothing, or lighter but less
protective items, bears the least risk. Or you might choose to work early in
the morning or delay work until the temperature drops. Take plenty of water
breaks during periods of strenuous activity, especially in warmer weather.

PRECAUTIONS AGAINST VIBRATION AND COLD

It is believed that a condition called Raynaud’s Syndrome, which affects the
fingers of certain individuals, may be brought about by exposure to cold and
vibration. Accordingly, your chain saw has shock mounts designed to reduce
the intensity of vibration received through the handles. Exposure to cold
and vibration may cause tingling and burning followed by loss of color and
numbness in the fingers. We strongly recommend the following precautions,
because the minimum exposure which might trigger the ailment is unknown.

22
 OPERATOR SAFETY
• Keep your body warm, especially the head and neck, feet and ankles, and
hands and wrists.

ENGLISH
• Maintain good blood circulation by performing vigorous arm exercises during
frequent work breaks, and also by not smoking.
• Limit the number of hours of chain saw operation. Try to fill a part of each
work day with jobs other than chain sawing.
• If you experience discomfort, redness and swelling of the fingers, followed
by whitening and or loss of feeling, consult your physician before further
exposing yourself to cold and vibration.
• Maintain a firm grip, but do not squeeze the handles with excessive
pressure.
• Assure good maintenance of your saw - loose parts can add to vibration
levels.

PRECAUTIONS AGAINST REPETITIVE STRESS

INJURIES
It is believed that overusing the muscles and tendons
of the fingers, hands, arms, and shoulders may
cause soreness, swelling, numbness, weakness, and
extreme pain to the areas just mentioned. Certain
repetitive hand activities may put you at a high risk
for developing a repetitive stress injury (RSI). An
extreme RSI condition is Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
(CTS), which could occur when your wrist swells and
squeezes a vital nerve that runs through the area.
Some believe that prolonged exposure to vibration
may contribute to CTS. CTS can cause severe pain
for months or even years. To reduce the risk of RSI/ IF IT HURTS,
CTS, do the following: TAKE A BREAK
• Avoid using your wrist in a bent, extended or twisted position. Instead, try to
maintain a straight wrist position. Also, when grasping, use your whole hand,
not just the thumb and index finger.
• Take periodic breaks to minimize repetition and rest your hands.
• Reduce the speed and force with which you do the repetitive movement.
• Do exercises to strengthen the hand and arm muscles.
• See a doctor if you feel tingling, numbness, or pain in the fingers, hands,
wrists, or arms. The sooner RSI/CTS is diagnosed, the more likely
permanent nerve and muscle damage can be prevented.

23
 OPERATOR SAFETY
Key safety and Risk Prevention Rules
DANGER! KICKBACK may occur when the nose
ENGLISH

or tip of the guide bar touches an object, or when the

wood closes in and pinches the saw chain in the cut.
Tip contact in some cases may cause a lightning-fast
reverse reaction, kicking the guide bar up and back DON’T ALLOW
toward the operator (this is called a rotational kickback). TIP CONTACT
Pinching the saw chain along the top of the guide bar
may push the guide bar rapidly back toward the operator
(this is called a linear kickback). Either of these reactions
may cause you to lose control of the saw and come
in contact with the moving chain, which could result in
serious or fatal injuries.
IF the optional Kick GuardTM anti-kickback device is not
installed on your chain saw, you cannot rely on the other
devices built into your saw. As a chain saw user, you
must take the steps necessary to keep your cutting jobs DON’T OPERATE
free from accident or injury. With a basic understanding ONE-HANDED
of kickback, you can reduce or eliminate the element
of surprise. Sudden surprise contributes to accidents.
Understand that rotational kickback is preventable by
keeping an unshielded bar nose from touching a solid
object, wherever it may be positioned.
SAFE OPERATION
Stand with your weight on both feet. Adjust your stance
so as to be away from the saw chain and the line of
cutting. When the saw is used without the optional Kick FIRM TWO-
Guard device, the cutting line becomes the potential path HANDED GRIP
of a rotational kickback.
WARNING! Do not operate a chain saw with
one hand! Serious injury to the operator, helpers, or
bystanders may result from one-handed operation. For
proper control, always use two hands when operating
a chain saw. Never operate the saw with only the hand
that operates the throttle trigger. This can result in the
chain saw “skating” or skidding, which can result in FIRM ENCIRCLING
personal injury due to loss of control. GRIP
Always keep a good firm grip on the saw with both hands, with 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 chain saw
handles. A firm grip will help you to better position the saw to reduce kickback
and to maintain control of the saw. Do not let go. Two hands must be used
to control the saw at all times. Always assure proper footing when cutting to
prevent slips or falls. Make sure that the area in which you are cutting is free
from obstructions. Do not let the unshielded bar nose contact a log, branch, or
any other obstruction which could be hit while you are operating the saw.
Cutting at high engine speeds may reduce the likelihood of kickback. But
cutting at part-throttle or low engine speeds may be preferable to control the
chain saw in tight situations and may also reduce the likelihood of kickback.
24
 OPERATOR SAFETY
Increase chain cutting speed before letting the chain
make contact. To reduce risk of kickback when plunge-

ENGLISH
cutting or boring, start at part throttle and wait until the
saw tip is buried deeply in the wood before slowly going
to full throttle.
WARNING! Cut only those branches that can
be reached from the ground. Do not over-reach or cut
above chest height. Do not attempt to cut in awkward
positions. DO NOT CUT WHILE
IN TREES OR ON
WARNING! Do not cut while standing on a LADDERS
ladder or up in a tree unless you have been specially
trained to do so. Cutting while on a ladder is extremely
dangerous because the ladder can slip and your control
of the chain saw is limited. Working aloft should be left
to trained professionals.
DANGER! Carbon monoxide is a poisonous
odorless gas produced by gasoline engines. Operate
the chain saw only in well-ventilated areas. Do not run
chain saw inside, in garages or sheds, or in confined
areas with the possibility of poor ventilation such as
drainage ditches, low & confined creek beds, etc.
WARNING! Do not operate a chain saw when
you are upset, fatigued or under the influence of alcohol
or drugs.
WARNING! Do not allow other persons to be near
the chain saw when you are starting or cutting with the
chain saw. Keep bystanders and animals out of the
work area. Do not let anyone hold the wood that you
are going to cut.
Do not start cutting or felling until you have a clear work
area, secure footing, and a planned retreat path from DO NOT OPERATE
the falling tree. UNDER THE
INFLUENCE
Keep all parts of your body away from the saw
chain when the engine is running.
To assure a good grip on the saw, keep the
handles dry, clean, and free of oil or fuel mixture.
Before you start the unit, make sure that the saw
chain is not contacting anything. If you decide
to shut off the engine, wait until the chain stops DO NOT LET HELPER HOLD
before setting the chain saw down. WHAT YOU ARE CUTTING!

Carry the chain saw with the engine stopped, or chain

brake engaged with the guide bar and saw chain to
the rear. For gasoline operated chain saws, keep the
muffler away from your body. When transporting your
chain saw, use a protective guide bar scabbard.
DON’T TOUCH
HOT SURFACES
25
 OPERATOR SAFETY

WARNING! Do not operate a chain saw that is

damaged, improperly adjusted, or not completely and
ENGLISH

securely assembled. Be sure that the saw chain stops

moving when the throttle control trigger is released.
DANGER! NEVER run the saw with an exposed
clutch. An exposed clutch running at high speeds can
shatter, causing serious injury to occur.
Keep your chain sharp this will improve cutting
performance and reduce physical exertion. Follow CARRY SAW WITH
sharpening and maintenance instructions for the saw BAR TO REAR &
chain. Use only specified replacement guide bars and ENGINE STOPPED
chains, or guide bars and chains that meet ANSI B175.1
requirements.
Use extreme caution when cutting small-size
brush and saplings because slender material
may catch the saw chain and be whipped
toward you or pull you off balance.
When cutting a limb that is under tension,
be alert for spring back so that you will not BEWARE OF HIGH
be struck by the limb or chain saw when the TENSION BRANCHES.
tension in the branch is released during the cut. STAY OUT OF THE PATH

General Safety Instructions

All chain saw service, other than the items listed in the operator’s manual
maintenance instruction, is to be performed only by competent chain saw
service personnel. (For example, if improper tools are used to remove the
flywheel, or if an improper tool is used to hold the flywheel to remove the
clutch, structural damage to the flywheel could occur. This could cause the
flywheel to shatter, resulting in serious injury to operator and bystanders.)
Spark arrester mufflers are standard on chain saws to reduce the possibility of
forest fires. Do not operate the chain saw with a loose or defective muffler. Do
not remove the spark arrester screen.
Insist on a replacement guide bar with holes to allow the mounting of the
optional Kick GuardTM device. Insist on the proper replacement saw chain for
your chain saw.
PROPER GRIP ON THE SAW
A firm grip is one requirement for chain saw control.
The saw should always be held firmly with both hands
whenever the engine is running.
Wear heavy-duty, non-slip gloves to improve your grip
on the handles.
Grasp the front handle firmly behind the front hand DON’T USE AN
guard with your left hand. Always use a wraparound OPEN GRIP
grip, with fingers encircling and the thumb on the underside. Thumb position is
the key to a strong grip.

26
 OPERATOR SAFETY

WARNING! Never use a grip where the thumb and finger do not encircle
the saw handle. If you use an improper grip, even a slight push or kick of the

ENGLISH
saw may dislodge your hand. The hand guard is not a handle. Do not pick up
or hold the saw by the hand guard.
Grasp the rear handle in the same manner as the front handle. Use index
finger to work the throttle trigger, and practice turning off the engine stop switch
without losing your grip on the saw.
WARNING! Never hold the saw directly in front of
your body where you would be in the line of a kickback.
Always keep to the left of the saw.
PROPER STARTING TECHNIQUE
Start the chain saw on the ground. Grip the front handle
with your left hand and hold the saw down by putting your
right foot on the rear handle. Pull the starter rope with
your right hand.
WARNING! Drop starting is prohibited! Drop KEEP BODY OUT
starting can cause loss of control of the saw and OF CUTTING
potential injury. PLANE
PROPER STANCE, BALANCE AND BODY
POSITION FOR CUTTING
After starting, pick up the saw and proceed as
follows: At completion of the cut, let go of the
trigger, carefully lift the saw clear, and allow the
engine to slow and chain to come to rest before
moving away or to another cut. USE PROPER
GROUND STARTING
Moving toward the next place to cut before
throttling down and lifting the chain BODY ENTIRELY
saw clear of the cut can cock the saw TO ONE SIDE OF
blade against the sides of the cut. PLANE PLANE OF CHAIN
This can result in a kickback. Always OF CHAIN ROTATION
throttle down and let chain come to a ROTATION
stop and lift the saw clear of the wood
before moving away. STRONG
LEFT
WARNING! DO NOT WALK ARM AND
AROUND WITH A MOVING THUMB ELBOW
CHAIN, ESPECIALLY IN AREAS ON UNDER POSITION
OF POOR TERRAIN OR AROUND SIDE OF FOR GOOD
HANDLE CONTROL
OBJECTS OR DEBRIS THAT CAN BAR
CAUSE TRIPPING. ALWAYS BE
SURE OF YOUR FOOTING WHEN GOOD
REPOSITIONING YOUR SELF FOR CONTROL
THE NEXT CUT.

WARNING! IF YOU SENSE A

TRIP OR FALL, THROW THE SAW
AWAY FROM YOU SO THAT YOU DO NOT FALL ON IT .

27
 OPERATOR SAFETY
Equipment to bring along
When using gasoline powered engines, fuel supplies should be carried in
ENGLISH

approved type fuel containers. Every owner should have a good tool kit to help
ensure continued operation of the saw. The kit should contain the following:
• Multi-purpose fire extinguisher.
• A few extra labeled cans or a plastic bottle (with attached pouring nozzle) of
chain oil.
• Wrenches, screwdriver, or combination wrench to fit all nuts and screws on
the saw.
• Round file and guide for touching up the chain. Flat file and depth gauge to
file the depth guides.
• Small brush (1/2 inch) to clean away sawdust and wood chips from around
gas cap and cooling fins.
• Extra spark plug.
• Owner’s manual (wrapped in a plastic bag).
• Cleaning rags.
• Sharp ax. Sledge hammer and wedges. Shovel.
• First aid kit. Despite taking all precautions operating a chain saw, or just
working in the forest, presents dangers.
DO NOT transport fuel, or a saw containing fuel, in the same compartment
as passengers. The saw must be transported and secured in the truck
bed, equipment trailer, or trunk. Cover the chain and bar with a scabbard
(protective sheath).
CAUTION When sharpening a chain saw, to prevent cuts to the hands,
be sure to wear protective gloves when moving the chain or holding the bar.
Use a tool to move the chain. Do not push against the sharp cutters, instead
move the chain the same way it runs, from engine to bar tip direction.
CHAIN TENSION:
Tighten your chain according to the directions supplied in to your instruction
manual.
WARNING! After running, a saw chain will heat up and expand, and may
become loose on the guide bar. If not tensioned properly, the chain may derail
from the guide bar at high speeds. Stop the saw, recheck the chain tension.
Use the proper steps to tension the chain. Always recheck chain tension before
using a saw, as the tension may vary due to heating or cooling of the chain.
WARNING! A thrown chain can cause injury. Assure correct chain
tension. Don’t run with a loose chain.

28
 FUELING

DANGER

ENGLISH
Explosion/Fire/Burn Hazard.
Gasoline is extremely flammable. Vapors
are explosive. Keep at least 50 feet (15 m)
away from heat, sparks, open flame, smok-
ing materials, static electricity, and all other
sources of ignition when fueling unit.
Gasoline vapor is heavier than air, and can
travel along the ground to nearby sources
of ignition such as electrical motors, pilot
lights, and hot or running engines. Vapors
ignited by an ignition source can flash back
to the fuel container, resulting in an explo-
sion, fire, serious or fatal injuries, and ex-
tensive property damage.
Follow these important safety precautions to
minimize risk of explosion or fire:
• ALWAYS use an approved, "no-spill" type fuel
container with tight-fitting caps.
• ALWAYS follow posted safety instructions for
filling fuel containers at filling stations.
• ALWAYS place container to be filled with
gasoline on the ground to prevent static build-
up during filling. Open Fuel Cap Slowly
• ALWAYS keep the metal filling pump nozzle in
contact with the fuel container while dispensing fuel to prevent buildup and
discharge of static electricity.
• NEVER fill fuel container on SUV/truck bed or in trunk of car.
• NEVER smoke near fuel.
• NEVER allow flames or sparks near fuel.
• ALWAYS loosen fuel caps slowly to allow pressure in tanks and containers
to escape
• ALWAYS use extreme care when mixing, storing, or handling fuel.
• NEVER remove tank cap or refuel a unit while the engine is hot or running
• NEVER fill fuel tanks indoors - ALWAYS fill fuel tanks outdoors over open
ground.
• DO NOT overfill fuel tank - ALWAYS allow room in tank for expansion.
Fill tank no more than 95 percent full, or to “Safe Fill Line” if marked on
container.
• ALWAYS wipe up spills immediately, and dispose of
fuel soaked wipes safely. Use a fireproof container
designed for safe disposal.
• IMMEDIATELY change clothes if fuel spills on
clothing. Wet clothes down with water first to GASOLINE
minimize fire risk.
• ALWAYS tighten fuel tank cap securely - check cap
for tightness. Tighten cap securely

29
 FUELING
• ALWAYS close fuel container immediately after refueling.
• ALWAYS check fuel system for leaks before using unit - NEVER start or
ENGLISH

operate a unit with leaks.

• ALWAYS move at least 3 m (10 ft.) away from refueling location before
starting engine.
• STOP USING UNIT IMMEDIATELY and shut engine ignition off if you smell
the strong odor of gasoline. Set unit down in a safe location, and allow to
cool before checking for leaks.
• ALWAYS store fuel containers in a well ventilated, unoccupied building,
away from heat, sparks, open flames, and other sources of ignition.

Fuel Mix

WARNING
2-Stroke engine oil contains petroleum distillates
and other additives that may be harmful if swal-
lowed. Heated oil can release vapors that can
cause flash fire, or ignite with explosive force.
Read and follow the oil manufacturer’s instruc-
tions, and observe all safety warnings and pre-
cautions for handling flammable liquids. For more
detailed safety and first aid information, visit www.
echo-usa.com for a copy of the Material Safety
Data Sheet.
• KEEP OUT OF REACH OF CHILDREN.
• If swallowed, do not induce vomiting. CALL 2-Stroke Engine Oil
PHYSICIAN OR A POISON CONTROL CENTER
IMMEDIATELY.
• WEAR SAFETY GLASSES when mixing or
handling.
• AVOID repeated or prolonged skin contact.
• AVOID inhaling oil mists or vapors.
• ALWAYS wipe up spills promptly - spills may
create a slip hazard if not attended to. Wear Safety Glasses
• NEVER store oil in open or unmarked containers. when mixing or
handling fuel
Also, follow these important safe-handling
precautions to minimize risk of explosion or fire when
preparing fuel/oil mix:
• ALWAYS prepare fuel/oil mix in an approved fuel
container
• ALWAYS follow mixing instructions in Operator’s
Manuals. GASOLINE
• ALWAYS make sure fuel container caps are tightly
secured before shaking container to mix fuel and oil.
• ALWAYS store fuel containers in a safe location, Tighten cap before
with caps and vents sealed tightly. shaking container

30
 FUELING

DANGER

ENGLISH
Alternative fuels, such as E-20 (20% ethanol), E-85 (85%
ethanol) or any fuels not meeting requirements are NOT
approved for use in 2-stroke gasoline engines. Use of
alternative fuels may cause performance problems, loss
E-20
of power, overheating, fuel vapor lock, and unintended
machine operation, including, but not limited to, improp-
er clutch engagement. Alternative fuels may also cause
premature deterioration of fuel lines, gaskets, carbure-
tors and other engine components. E-85
NEVER use raw (unmixed) fuel, or any high-ethanol fuel (ethanol
content greater than 10%) such as E20 -E85, in a two-stroke
engine.
Fuel containers filled with 2-stroke engine fuel/oil mix should be identified as
containing fuel/oil mix, and should be stored separately to prevent using raw or
high ethanol gasoline in a two-stroke engine.

RULES FOR SAFE FUELING

WARNING! The engine exhaust from this product contains chemicals
known to the State of California to Cause cancer, birth defects, or other
reproductive harm.
WARNING! Gasoline and gasoline vapors contain chemicals known to the
State of California to Cause cancer, birth defects, or other reproductive harm.
DANGER! Gasoline is an extremely flammable fuel. If spilled or ignited
by a spark or other ignition source, it can cause fire and serious burn injury, or
property damage. Use extreme caution when handling gasoline or fuel mix.
WARNING! Use only approved safety containers that do not leak to
store and dispense fuel. It is best to use a container with a sealable spout
and resealable vent to help minimize spillage. DO NOT USE GLASS
CONTAINERS FOR GASOLINE.
WARNING! Fuel your chain saw in well-ventilated outside areas only.
Select bare ground for fueling. AVOID spilling any fuel on your clothing or
shoes. If this happens change into clean clothing immediately. Wipe off any
spilled fuel and check for leakage before starting the chain saw. If fuel leakage
is discovered, do not start or run the chain saw until the leak is fixed and any
spilled fuel has been wiped away. Move the chain saw at least 10 feet (3m)
from the fueling point before starting the engine.
WARNING! Chain saw vibration can cause an improperly tightened
fuel cap to loosen or come off and allow fuel to escape. After refueling, take
care to inspect and clean any debris off the fuel cap seal and tighten the cap
as much as possible by hand. Be sure the fuel cap is properly tightened and
sealed before starting the unit.
WARNING! ALWAYS INSPECT your fuel cap for damage or leaks. If you
experience leaking of fuel onto your clothing or shoes, do not start or use the
saw until you have changed your clothing! DO NOT USE A Chain saw WITH A
LEAKY CAP! Order a new replacement cap immediately before using the saw.

31
 FUELING

WARNING! Combustible fuel vapors may be vented from the fuel system.
Do not smoke or bring any fire, flame, ignition source or equipment that could
ENGLISH

cause sparks near the fuel or the chain saw.

Always shut off the engine and allow it to cool before refueling. Due to
agitation, weather, heat due to operation, or the type of venting system,
gasoline vapor pressure may build up inside the gas tank of the engine. To
reduce the risk of burns or other personal injury from escaping gasoline
vapors and fumes, remove the fuel cap slowly and carefully to allow any
pressure to release slowly. NEVER remove the fuel cap while the engine
is running.
WARNING! When filling a fuel container at the gas station, to avoid
gasoline ignition due to static shock, place approved container on ground away
from vehicle when filling and keep the gas nozzle in contact with the container
when filling. Do NOT fill any container while it is in a truck bed or in the trunk
of a car.
WARNING! Store fuel and unit where fuel vapors cannot reach sparks or
open flames from water heaters, electric motors or switches, furnaces, etc.
If you plan to store the unit for an extended period carefully empty the unused
fuel back into a safety can. Following the safe starting directions, run the unit
until it completely runs out of fuel.

32
 OPERATION

SAFE WOOD CUTTING PRACTICES

Operating a chain saw safely requires that the chain saw be in proper working

ENGLISH
order, with the chain properly tensioned. It also requires sound judgment,
knowledge of proper cutting methods, and having a plan for every cut you make.
WARNING! Do not let any person use your chain saw unless he or she
has read the operator’s manual and this safety manual, and fully understands
all instructions. Never let children or minors operate the saw.
WARNING! Do not let helpers hold wood for you to cut. Keep helpers
and bystanders a safe distance away. Don’t reach in to grab cut material until
the saw chain has come to a complete stop.
Use your saw only to cut wood or wood products. Do not cut metal, sheet
metal, or any non-wood materials.
Maintain good control at all times, using a secure, balanced stance and a firm,
two-handled grip.
Stay on the uphill side when bucking or limbing logs,
which might otherwise roll toward you after being cut.
WARNING! Keep both feet on the ground. Do
not work from off-the-ground positions.
Working from ladders is extremely dangerous
because they can slip, your footing is confined, STAY ABOVE LOG ON
and your control is extremely limited. Working aloft DOWN SLOPE
should be left to the experts.
WARNING! Do not work from metal ladders when there are power lines
close by. Do not work on any tree if any of its branches may be in contact with
power lines. If a tree hits a power line DON’T GO NEAR! Notify the power
company as soon as possible.
Work only when there is adequate lighting to see clearly.
When there are several workers, they should be stationed where they will not
interfere with one another. During felling and limbing operations, only the chain
saw operator should be working on a tree, which can shift at any time.
When felling a tree or any chain saw process, keep people and animals away
a distance of at least twice the height of the tree. This “rule” also applies when
hung-up trees are being dragged down.
Before cutting, clear the area of materials likely to be ignited by the saw or
that may interfere with your footing or the cutting process. Be sure the path of
retreat is clear. It is wise to plan two exit paths in case one becomes blocked
during the tree’s fall.
WARNING! If a tree starts falling toward
you, or you see a branch ready to fall, LEAVE
THE SAW AND GET AWAY FAST! Any tree with a
hollow rotted trunk, thick loose bark, and suspended
dead branches is extremely dangerous to disturb
by cutting. Such trees should be taken down by
professionals.

33
 OPERATION

WARNING! Be extremely careful when attempting to fell trees during

periods of high wind or with unbalanced forces from heavy precipitation. If a
ENGLISH

fallen or broken tree creates an emergency, leave removal to the professional

tree removal services.
WARNING! Anytime you use a chain saw, beware of electrical lines in
the area, electrified branches in contact with power lines, or electrical lines that
may have been knocked down by natural occurrences such as an ice storm,
heavy winds, or fallen limbs or trees. Also beware of electrical fences while
using a chain saw. DO NOT CUT NEAR ELECTRICAL LINES!

PINCHING, BINDING & SPLITTING

Wind bends trees. Gravity bends logs that are HINGE
not flat on the ground. A log weakened by a
cut over 1/3 the log diameter is like two logs
hinged together. The cut may either close
or open wider, depending on how the log is
positioned. MOVING OPENED

In bucking logs, always make the weakening

cut from the direction (opposite the “hinge”
side) which causes the cut to widen. If made
from the wrong side, the cut will close, binding PINCHING HINGE
the saw and pinching the chain. CLOSED
If the log is under heavy stress, prevent
splitting by making a shallow cut (up to 1/
3 dia.) on the “hinge” side first. But, always
finish with the final cut in a direction towards HINGE
the “hinge” side.
1ST 1/3 CUT
When the log is supported on both ends and
is best to be cut in between, underbuck (cut
upward from the bottom side) for the finishing
cut.
2ND FINISHING CUT

CUT UP OR UNDERBUCK
When you wish to cut off an unsupported CUT DOWN OR
section from the end of a log, the weakening UNDERBUCK
or finishing cut should be an overbuck (from
top down). However, you may begin with a
shallow underbuck to avoid splitting.
When the lie is such that the cutoff section will UNSUPPORTED END
settle, guard against binding and pinching of
the saw between the log sections. This can WEDGE
be done by inserting a soft wedge into the cut
(after the chain is out of the way) to hold the
cut open. In certain cases, the cut may be
made on an angle so that it will widen as the
log settles.

34
 OPERATION
If you’re unsure how a log actually lies, and how it will bend, change its lie. If
too heavy to move without strain on the back muscles, use a lever bar such as

ENGLISH
a cant hook to move or roll it. NOTE: You may have need to use this procedure
to free the saw, if you misjudged the position of the log.
When a log is flat on the ground, overbuck as far through as possible without
cutting into the earth. Then roll the log over to finish the cut.

LOGGER’S
HOOK FOR MAKE ANGLED CUT WHEN ONE
ROLLING SECTION MAY SETTLE AGAINST
LOGS ANOTHER. KEEP BODY OUT OF
BAR/CHAIN PATH!

PRUNING SHADE TREES AND CUTTING

SAPLINGS
Whippy growth, such as saplings and tree
branches, may resist being cut. Be prepared 2nd Cut
for the saw chain to skate along the surface 3rd Cut
and the material to vibrate from side to side.
This can result in a sharp sudden pull on the
saw or can cause branches to snap back
at the operator. Be ready to resist this pull Collar
and avoid snapping branches. With the Kick 1st Cut
Guard device in place as a shield on the bar,
TM

you can flush-cut brush and saplings close

to the ground to reduce this rough cutting. TRIMMING TECHNIQUE TO
The pruning of small gauge branches may be AVOID BARK PEELING
better done with pruning saws or shears rather
than chain saws. Likewise, clearing brush or heavy weeds may be better done
with a brush cutter.
Trees have both branches and stems that look like branches, called
condominant stems. If a condominant stem must be removed, cut at an angle
outside of the bark ridge. Avoid leaving any stub.
When removing a branch, always cut outside the branch bark ridge and
collar. Do not make a flush cut when removing a main branch. You may need
to undercut a notch first to allow a hinge for the
lowering process. After the branch has been cut off,
make your finished cut in the desired location.
WARNING! Do not cut while in a tree
unless you are specially trained to do so.
Branches that do not have a distinct collar should
be cut at a right angle to the branch outside of the
branch bark ridge.

DO NOT CUT UP
IN TREES
35
 OPERATION
When removing heavy limbs, first make an undercut several inches outside
of the collar. Then remove the limb by a second cut an inch or so outside of
ENGLISH

the first cut. Remove the stub with a third cut just outside of the collar. This
process will prevent bark peeling
WOUND DRESSINGS NOT USEFUL
Wound dressings have been shown to interfere with the natural development
of callus tissues that eventually close the pruning wound. In some cases,
wound dressings can even harbor disease organisms much like what occurs
when a bandage is left on a skin cut too long. It is far more important to make a
smooth cut outside of the collar, and allow the wound area to dry.
If a wound dressing is desired for aesthetic purposes, use a very thin coat, just
enough to darken the wound area. The best are the aerosol sprays of water
emulsified asphalt sold in garden centers. Do not use oil-based paints, thick
tars or other materials containing petroleum solvents.
MAINTAIN TREE HEALTH
The key to good wound closure following pruning is to maintain a healthy tree
through proper watering, fertilizer application and pest control. Trees under stress
from drought, over-watering, pest attack, lawn mower, and other mechanical
damage, and poor nutrition cannot successfully fight off invasion of organisms.

FELLING TREES
Please note that felling a tree
is more complicated than
often expected. Take time
to plan cuts, fall path and
escape route before felling
the tree. Electric powered
units may not be suitable for
felling some trees. Consider
such factors as tree size
and location, circuit breaker
capacity, and weather SURVEY TREES KEEP BODY AWAY
and ground conditions to BEFORE FELLING FROM KICKBACK PATH
determine if an electric
powered saw is appropriate. Refer to instructions on using an electric saw.
WARNING! Call a professional tree-felling service to handle jobs that are
beyond your abilities and knowledge. This includes trees that are precariously
located near power lines, homes, buildings, and public roads.
PLANNING THE FALL
Check the tree and the weather for wind speed and direction. The trunk should
be sound, not rotted and hollow. Look for branches, which might become free
and fall on you during the cutting work. Wear a hard hat. Prepare the working
area and clear your escape route. This route should be to the rear, but not
straight back. Going more to the side is safer. Decide whether wind conditions
plus the natural lean and balance of the tree will enable you to fell the tree in
the desired direction. At any risk of a wrong-way fall, consider using a wedge
to help start the tree in the right direction. If the trunk is too small in diameter
for insertion of a wedge, consider tethering the tree. The tether line must be
attached before cutting is begun.

36
 OPERATION
NOTCHING FOR DIRECTIONAL
UNCUT SIDE VIEW
CONTROL HINGE 1ST CUT

ENGLISH
Make two cuts on the side the tree is
to fall. Make the bottom cut first, at 90 2”
degrees to the intended line of fall and NOTCH
to a depth of 1/3 the trunk diameter. BACK DEPTH 1/3
CUT OF TRUNK
Then angle the top cut downward at a
45-degree angle to intersect the first cut 2” DIAMETER
at the 1/3 trunk diameter depth. Remove 2ND CUT
the cut piece.
BACK CUTTING AND HINGING
It is important to leave approximately
a 2 inch (50 mm) wide strip of wood
uncut between the notch and the back
cut. This uncut strip acts as a “hinge” to USE
WEDGES NOTCH
determine the line of fall. CUTS
IF ROOM
Make the back cut at least 2 inches (51 FIRST
mm) higher than the intersection of the
FALL
notch.
BACK
Make the back cut parallel to the base CUT
of the notch, but don’t cut all the way LAST
through to the notch. Leave a “hinge” 90°
strip of approximately 2 inches (51mm) LEAVE 2”
so the notch and back cut are of equal HINGE
thickness.
WARNING! DO NOT CUT
THROUGH THE HINGE!
THE TREE CAN FALL THE
WRONG WAY AND CAUSE
PROPERTY DAMAGE,
SERIOUS OR FATAL INJURY. FALL
If the back cut is too low, or the 45°
“hinge” is cut through, the tree will
not be under control of the “hinge”
and may fall in any direction. Be 90°
ready to leave the chain saw and RETREAT
GET AWAY FAST, away from the PATH
tree’s falling direction!
45°
When the tree does not lean in the
desired felling direction, insert a
plastic or wooden wedge into the RETREAT
back cut when there is room behind PATH NOT THIS
the saw blade. This will hold the cut WAY
open. Then complete cutting to the hinge (careful not to cut the wedge), and
either continue cutting to fell the tree or hammer in the wedges to push the tree
in the desired direction.

37
 OPERATION
TETHERING
For good leverage, the tether line should be attached as high up the trunk as
ENGLISH

possible. Use a strong rope. (Do not use nylon rope because it stretches.) Run
the rope in the planned direction of fall to a distance much greater than the
height of the tree. Tugging or jerking on the tether line can cause the tree to
sway, and fall backwards. Always maintain constant tension on the tree using a
steady pull on the rope to prevent swaying.
DANGER! During felling, if a tree starts to lean and fall in an unintended
direction, causing your saw to bind, LEAVE THE SAW! Be particularly careful
as you get away from the tree’s precarious position. Beware of the direction it
is going and do not cross the fall path. Do Not try to save the saw! The saw is
replaceable- You are not!
DANGER! HUNG TREE- When a tree gets hung on another and will not
fall, ask for help from a trained experienced woodsman or tree felling service.
This can become an extremely dangerous condition.
WARNING! Check for broken or dead branches which can fall while
cutting causing serious injury. Do not cut near buildings or electrical
wires if you do not know the direction of tree fall, nor cut at night since
you will not be able to see well, nor during bad weather such as rain,
snow, or strong winds, etc. If the tree does make contact with any utility
line, the utility company should be notified immediately. Carefully plan
your sawing operation in advance. Clear the work area. You need a clear
area all around the tree so you can have secure footing. The chain saw
operator should keep on the uphill side of the terrain as the tree is likely
to roll or slide down hill after it is felled.
Study the natural conditions that can cause the tree to fall in a particular
direction, such as:
• The wind direction and speed.
• The lean of the tree. The lean of a tree might not be apparent due to uneven
or sloping terrain.
• Use a plumb or level to determine the direction of tree lean.
• Weight and branches on one side.
• Surrounding trees and obstacles.
• Look for decay and rot. If the trunk is rotted, it can snap and fall toward the
operator.
• Make sure there is enough room for the tree to fall.
• Maintain a distance of 2-1/2 tree lengths from the nearest person or other
objects. Noise can drown out a warning call.
• Remove dirt, stones, loose bark, nails, staples, and wire from the tree where
cuts are to be made.

38
 OPERATION

LIMBING AND BUCKING

ENGLISH
WARNING! Do not walk on the trunk
or in a log pile, or cut while standing on it.
WARNING! Take extra care when
walking around a log pile, especially if
logs are debarked or wet and slippery.
DON’T CUT WHAT YOU ARE
Determine how the log or limb is tensioned. STANDING ON
Apply the methods discussed to avoid
entrapment of the saw. If the chain becomes
pinched in a bind, SHUT OFF THE ENGINE.
Free the bind by lifting the limb. Use levers,
poles, etc. for lifting. Avoid back injuries.
Echo suggests all limbing and bucking
operations be done with optional Kick
GuardTM installed, except where tree
diameter exceeds cutting capacity of saw.
When the trunk is held off the ground by its
limbs, determine which of these are needed KNOW HOW BRANCHES ARE
for support. Leave these while you cut off all STRESSED
the other limbs and branches. You will lose
support of the limbs as sections of the trunk
are bucked into logs. Roll some short logs
under the trunk so you can continue off-the-
ground bucking, which is easier than when
the trunk is flat on the ground. Go to the high
groundside of the trunk to buck off logs. LAST
It may be necessary to bore into the middle of
a log before the top or bottom is cut. Boring
is a dangerous procedure where the bar tip USE SUPPORT LOG UNDER
guard cannot be used for protection. Be sure TRUNK - LEAVE SUPPORT
you have read about kickback in this manual LIMBS UNTIL LAST
and know how to avoid it before attempting to bore.
WARNING! Boring should only be performed by trained
professionals. There is danger of kickback during boring. Be sure to
maintain proper control of the saw and keep your body away from the
kickback path.
Before starting the bore, use the bottom edge of the saw blade to cut into the
side of the log at slow chain speed. When the bar has buried itself quite deeply
into the log, gradually increase chain speed and shift cutting pressure to bore
straight into the log. Once the bar is inside the log, you can cut downward to the
bottom, and then finish by cutting upward through the holding wood at the top.
Avoid sawing inside windfalls. Windfalls are tangled branches, roots and trees.
Clean these out only by cutting from the perimeter, or by dragging logs and
limbs into the clear before bucking.

39
 OPERATION

WARNING! Be alert for spring poles and

stay clear of them during cutting. A spring pole
ENGLISH

can spring back suddenly when cut, or when

the wood holding it down is cut away. A spring
pole can strike you or deflect the moving saw
chain into your body.
BE ALERT FOR
Do not cut a tree in order to drop a tree that has SPRING POLES
lodged against it. Have lodged trees pulled down
with proper power equipment.
When a log diameter exceeding the bar length is flat on the ground with no
room for an under buck, reach over the log and cut into the side. Then draw
the saw over the top and over buck deeply enough to insert a wedge. Reinsert
the saw and over-buck as far down as possible without letting the chain hit the
dirt.
Logs that are flat on the ground, and that are within the saw’s capacity to cut
with one over-buck should be bucked as low to the ground as possible. Keep
the optional Kick GuardTM device on the bar and use a wedge when necessary
to hold the cut open. Then roll the log with a cant hook or pole to expose the
bottom for cutting.
DANGER! Cutting the trunk of a large
tree that has a large root ball can cause the
root ball to fall back into the ground, causing
severe or fatal injury. Never allow anyone to
be positioned in or around the root ball or
the root ball hole. BEWARE OF ROOT PLATE
SETTLING!!

FELLING VERY LARGE TREES

Pertains to gasoline-powered saws only. Small gas powered saws and
electric powered saws should not be used to fell very large trees. Only
those that have been trained to cut very large trees should attempt these
techniques.
WARNING! Call a professional tree-felling service to handle jobs
that are beyond your abilities and knowledge. This includes large trees,
trees that are near power lines, homes, buildings and public roads.
Timber of a diameter exceeding the length of the saw blade can be felled by
using one of the following methods. To fell a leaning tree, see “Felling Extreme
Leaners” below.

40
 OPERATION
DRAW-ACROSS METHOD DRAW-ACROSS METHOD
Standard procedures are used here,
1

ENGLISH
except that the cuts have to be extended
from one side to the other when the blade NOTCHING
doesn’t fit across the trunk. CUTS
2
Start the lower cut of the notch by
pivoting in from one corner to a depth of
1/3 trunk diameter. Then reverse the saw
direction, reinsert saw in cut, and draw
it across to the other corner. Complete
the cut on that side. Do the same thing to
make the intersecting top cut. Be careful
to keep your body out of the kickback
path when making this angled top cut.
Remove the cut wood wedge.
For the back cut, start at the corner 3
5
at least 2 inches (51 mm) above the 4
intersection of the notch. Plan to leave FELLING
CUTS
10 to 12 percent of the trunk diameter
uncut as a hinge. Pivot the saw from
the back towards the hinge. Reverse WEDGES
saw direction, reinsert saw into the cut,
and draw it across the back of the tree.
Cut the other side to complete the felling
cut and the hinge. Follow standard felling
procedures from this point.
PLUNGE CUTTING METHOD START OF
This method uses the same steps for PLUNGE
CUT OR
notching and felling cuts as described in BORE
the “Draw-Across Method.”
COMPLETION OF BORE
WARNING! Plunge cutting entails
boring inside the tree. Be aware that there is 1
always a chance of kickback even when the
plunge cut is expertly done.
After notching the trunk, stand at the left
and aim the saw at the middle of the notch
intersection. Throttle up to a slow chain
speed. Make contact at the middle with
the bottom edge of the bar, NOT THE BAR FELLING CUTS
NOSE!
2
Pivot the saw in to a depth of at least 6
inches (15 cm) before smoothly increasing
speed to full throttle. Then gradually shift
cutting angle and pressure to bore straight
into the trunk. When all the way inside,
hollow out the trunk. But do not cut away
any more of the hinge wood than necessary.
Now make the back cut to fell the tree. 4
3

41
 OPERATION
FELLING EXTREME “LEANERS”
Do not assume that the lean makes notching for directional control
ENGLISH

unnecessary. The notch is needed, but should not be as deep as the standard
1/3 diameter notch. Before back cutting, make some notches through the
sapwood on both sides of the trunk to relieve some of the stress, which causes
splitting. Stay on the alert for possible splitting, because a splitting tree is
dangerous.

BOW SAW WARNING

WARNING! ECHO Incorporated does not recommend the use of bow
saws. If you choose to attach a bow guide to an chain saw, and thus create a
bow saw, you do so at your own risk. A bow guide attachment increases the
risk of severe kickback and serious injury. Do not use a bow guide unless you
have experience or specialized training. Do not remove guard(s) or spur(s) on
the bow guide provided by the manufacturer. Do not rely on a chain brake to
prevent or reduce an injury associated with the severity of a kickback from a
bow saw.
Proper use of the bow guide’s spurs can prevent bow saw kickback. Do not
rely on low kickback chain to reduce kickback when used with a bow saw, even
though it may have qualified under ANSI B175.1 Low kickback chain is not
effective in reducing the likelihood of a bow saw kick back.

AVOID USING BOW SAWS

42
 ELECTRIC CHAIN SAW SAFETY
Safety Precautions
There are added safety precautions that

ENGLISH
must be taken regarding electric chain
saws:
DANGER! To reduce the risk
of electric shock or electrocution,
never use an electric chain saw, or
any other electrical device in rain, or
in wet locations. Serious injury can
occur due to electric shock or death by
electrocution. NEVER CUT IN WET CONDITIONS

WARNING! Do not use damaged

extension cords with cuts. Inspect the electric
cords before each use and replace them if
damaged. Cord insulation must be intact
with no cracks or deterioration. Use only
polarized extension cords marked as suitable
for outdoor appliances and in conjunction
with qualified, tested Ground Fault Circuit
Interrupter (GFCI) protected circuits. Do not
use multiple cords. Plug connectors must be
undamaged.
USE TESTED GFCI
WARNING! Always use qualified GFCI CIRCUITS
protected circuits when using electrical
equipment outdoors. A ground fault
interrupter in the power supply line will
help prevent fatal shocks.
WARNING! Avoid unintentional
starting of the chain saw by making sure
the switch is off before plugging in the unit.
AVOID USING
Never tie the switch down in any fashion so DAMAGED
as to lock the switch in position. CORD
WARNING! Never leave a plugged in
unit unattended. It is always possible for a
child or inexperienced user to wander up to
the unit for experimentation or play.
WARNING! Do not abuse the electric
cord. Never carry the chain saw by the cord.
Do not yank the cord when disconnecting
the unit or extension cord from power
receptacles.
WARNING! Keep electric cords away
from heat, sharp edges, or any area that can
increase the possibility of cutting the cord, DON’T CARRY BY CORD
and exposing operator or others to shock or electrocution.
The electric chain saw unit is made of a molded dielectric material that reduces
the risk of electric shock to the operator. Broken or cracked housings or guards
may not protect you.
43
 ELECTRIC CHAIN SAW SAFETY

Do not operate the unit if housings or guards are damaged. Use only
identical replacement parts when service is required. Use of non-identical
ENGLISH

parts may create an electrical hazard resulting in serious injury or death from
electrocution.
Be sure to use the correct size MINIMUM WIRE GAUGE
extension cord which is rated to RECOMMENDATIONS
carry current a specific distance.
7.67 m 15.24 m 30.48 m
The electrical rating of the cord VOLTS (25 ft.) (50 ft.) (100 ft.)
must not be less than the rating of
the saw. A longer extension cord 16 16 14
120 A.W.G.* A.W.G.* A.W.G.*
will require a heavier gauge wire.
An undersized extension cord
*American Wire Gauge
will result in a drop in line voltage
resulting in loss of power and overheating. Read your Instruction Manual to
find the recommended size of extension cord. The smaller the cord gauge
number is (AWG - American Wire Gauge), the heavier the wire gauge will be. If
in doubt, use the next heavier gauge.
WARNING! Never drape the extension
cord over the wood or log being cut. Keep
the extension cord behind you to avoid the
possibility of dangerous electric shock or
electrocution. Keep the cord away from the
chain. Work away from the power source
allowing the cord to follow behind you. Do
not touch the metal bar or chain if the chain
saw blade has cut into the extension cord. KEEP VENT CLEAR

To avoid motor overheating, remove all debris

from the air vents located on the side of the motor
housing. Always disconnect the plug before any
servicing is performed on the unit, and when the
unit is not in use. Do not leave a plugged in unit
unattended.
WARNING! Avoid dangerous situations.
Do not use in the presence of flammable
liquids or gases to avoid creating a fire or
explosion and/or causing damage to unit. WATCH OUT FOR
SHARP EDGES
WARNING! When using a gasoline
powered generator as a power source for the
chain saw, always read the generator Operator’s
Manual to learn proper grounding techniques.
An improperly grounded generator could cause
serious injury from electric shock, or death by
electrocution. Never use a generator indoors.
Use only in outdoor areas with adequate
ventilation.
Avoid accidental pullout of plug from extension cord. KNOT CORD
Tie a loose knot with the chain saw power cord and TO PREVENT
UNPLUGGING
the extension cord. The loop in the knot will reduce
the likelihood of plug disconnection.
44
NOTES

ENGLISH

45
 NOTES
ENGLISH

46
NOTES

ENGLISH

47
 For questions regarding terms used in this manual, visit:
https://www.echo-usa.com/Support-Help/Technical-Documents
ENGLISH

or
https://www.shindaiwa-usa.com/Tech-Support/Technical-
Documents
If you need a copy of a chain saw safety or instruction manual,
have product questions, are unsure about the safe use or
maintenance of your saw, or would like to obtain a chain saw
safety video, please visit our website at http://www.echo-usa.com.
You may also contact your local ECHO dealer, or contact ECHO
directly at (800) 432-3246. The chain saw safety video provides
operational safety information and cutting demonstrations.

If you need a copy of a chain saw safety or instruction manual,

have product questions, are unsure about the safe use or
maintenance of your saw, or would like to obtain a chain saw
safety video, please visit our website at http://www.shindaiwa-
usa.com. You may also contact your local Shindaiwa dealer,
or contact Shindaiwa directly at (877) 986-7783. The chain saw
safety video provides operational safety information and cutting
demonstrations.

ECHO INCORPORATED
400 OAKWOOD ROAD
LAKE ZURICH, IL 60047
PHONE: (847) 540-8400
www.echo-usa.com

48