Makita DUC256 User manual

INSTRUCTION MANUAL
MANUEL D'INSTRUCTION
MANUAL DE INSTRUCCIONES
Cordless Chain Saw
Tronçonneuse sans Fil
Electrosierra Inalámbrica
DUC256
DUC306
DUC356
DUC406
DUC256C
IMPORTANT: Read Before Using.
IMPORTANT : Lire avant usage.
IMPORTANTE: Lea antes de usar.

2ENGLISH
ENGLISH (Original instructions)
SPECIFICATIONS
Model: DUC256 DUC306 DUC356 DUC406 DUC256C
Overall length (without guide bar) 270 mm
(10-5/8″)
Rated voltage D.C. 36 V
Net weight
4.6 -
4.8 kg
(10.1 -
10.6 lbs)
4.7 -
4.9 kg
(10.3 -
10.8 lbs)
4.8 -
5.0 kg
(10.5 -
11.0 lbs)
4.8 -
5.1 kg
(10.6 -
11.1 lbs)
4.6 -
4.7 kg
(10.2 -
10.5 lbs)
Standard guide bar length 250 mm
(10″)
300 mm
(12″)
350 mm
(14″)
400 mm
(16″)
250 mm
(10″)
Recommended guide
bar length
with 90PX 250 - 400 mm
(10″ - 16")
-
with 91PX 250 - 400 mm
(10″ - 16")
-
with 25AP -250 mm
(10")
Applicable saw chain type
(refer to the table below)
90PX
91PX
25AP
Standard sprocket Number of teeth 6 9
Pitch 3/8″ 1/4″
Chain speed 0 - 20 m/s
(0 - 1,200 m/min)
(0 - 3,940 ft/min)
Chain oil tank volume 200 cm3 (6.8  oz)
• Due to our continuing program of research and development, the specications herein are sub-
ject to change without notice.
• Specications may differ from country to country.
• The weight may differ depending on the attachment(s), including the battery cartridge. The light-
est and heaviest combination, according to EPTA-Procedure 01/2014, are shown in the table.
Applicable battery cartridge
BL1830 / BL1830B / BL1840B / BL1850B / BL1860B
• Some of the battery cartridges listed above may not be available depending on your region of
residence.
WARNING: Only use the battery cartridges listed above. Use of any other battery cartridges
may cause injury and/or re.

3ENGLISH
Saw chain, guide bar, and sprocket combination
Saw chain type 90PX
Number of drive links 40 46 52 56
Guide bar Guide bar length 250 mm
(10″)
300 mm
(12″)
350 mm
(14″)
400 mm
(16″)
Cutting length 238 mm
(9-3/8″)
294 mm
(11-5/8″)
350 mm
(13-3/4″)
387 mm
(5-1/4″)
Part No. 161846-0 165245-8 165246-6 165247-4
Pitch 3/8″
Gauge 1.1 mm
(0.043″)
Type Sprocket nose bar
Sprocket Number of teeth 6
Pitch 3/8″
Saw chain type 91PX
Number of drive links 40 46 52 56
Guide bar Guide bar length 250 mm
(10″)
300 mm
(12″)
350 mm
(14″)
400 mm
(16″)
Cutting length 238 mm
(9-3/8″)
294 mm
(11-5/8″)
350 mm
(13-3/4″)
387 mm
(5-1/4″)
Part No. 168408-5 165200-0 165201-8 165202-6
Pitch 3/8″
Gauge 1.3 mm
(0.050″)
Type Sprocket nose bar
Sprocket Number of teeth 6
Pitch 3/8″
Saw chain type 25AP
Number of drive links 60
Guide bar Guide bar length 250 mm
(10″)
Cutting length 253 mm
(10″)
Part No. 168407-7
Pitch 1/4″
Gauge 1.3 mm
(0.050″)
Type Carving bar
Sprocket Number of teeth 9
Pitch 1/4″
WARNING: Use appropriate combination of the guide bar and saw chain. Otherwise personal
injury may result.

4ENGLISH
SAFETY WARNINGS
General power tool safety warnings
WARNING: Read all safety warnings,
instructions, illustrations and specica-
tions provided with this power tool. Failure
to follow all instructions listed below may result
in electric shock, re and/or serious injury.
Save all warnings and instruc-
tions for future reference.
The term "power tool" in the warnings refers
to your mains-operated (corded) power tool or
battery-operated (cordless) power tool.
Work area safety
1. Keep work area clean and well lit.
Cluttered or dark areas invite accidents.
2. Do not operate power tools in explosive
atmospheres, such as in the presence of
ammable liquids, gases or dust. Power
tools create sparks which may ignite the
dust or fumes.
3. Keep children and bystanders away
while operating a power tool. Distractions
can cause you to lose control.
Electrical Safety
1.
Power tool plugs must match the outlet.
Never modify the plug in any way. Do not use
any adapter plugs with earthed (grounded)
power tools. Unmodied plugs and matching
outlets will reduce risk of electric shock.
2. Avoid body contact with earthed or
grounded surfaces, such as pipes, radia-
tors, ranges and refrigerators. There is an
increased risk of electric shock if your body
is earthed or grounded.
3. Do not expose power tools to rain or wet
conditions. Water entering a power tool will
increase the risk of electric shock.
4. Do not abuse the cord. Never use the
cord for carrying, pulling or unplugging
the power tool. Keep cord away from
heat, oil, sharp edges or moving parts.
Damaged or entangled cords increase the
risk of electric shock.
5. When operating a power tool outdoors,
use an extension cord suitable for out-
door use. Use of a cord suitable for outdoor
use reduces the risk of electric shock.
6. If operating a power tool in a damp
location is unavoidable, use a ground
fault circuit interrupter (GFCI) protected
supply. Use of a GFCI reduces the risk of
electric shock.
7.
Power tools can produce electromagnetic
elds (EMF) that are not harmful to the
user. However, users of pacemakers and
other similar medical devices should contact
the maker of their device and/or doctor for
advice before operating this power tool.
Personal Safety
1.
Stay alert, watch what you are doing and
use common sense when operating a
power tool. Do not use a power tool while
you are tired or under the inuence of
drugs, alcohol or medication. A moment of
inattention while operating power tools may
result in serious personal injury.
2. Use personal protective equipment. Always
wear eye protection. Protective equipment
such as dust mask, non-skid safety shoes, hard
hat, or hearing protection used for appropriate
conditions will reduce personal injuries.
3. Prevent unintentional starting. Ensure
the switch is in the off-position before
connecting to power source and/or bat-
tery pack, picking up or carrying the tool.
Carrying power tools with your nger on the
switch or energising power tools that have
the switch on invites accidents.
4.
Remove any adjusting key or wrench
before turning the power tool on. A wrench
or a key left attached to a rotating part of the
power tool may result in personal injury.
5. Do not overreach. Keep proper footing and
balance at all times. This enables better con-
trol of the power tool in unexpected situations.
6. Dress properly. Do not wear loose cloth-
ing or jewellery. Keep your hair, clothing
and gloves away from moving parts.
Loose clothes, jewellery or long hair can be
caught in moving parts.
7. If devices are provided for the connec-
tion of dust extraction and collection
facilities, ensure these are connected
and properly used. Use of dust collection
can reduce dust-related hazards.
8. Do not let familiarity gained from fre-
quent use of tools allow you to become
complacent and ignore tool safety prin-
ciples. A careless action can cause severe
injury within a fraction of a second.
9. Always wear protective goggles to pro-
tect your eyes from injury when using
power tools. The goggles must comply
with ANSI Z87.1 in the USA.
It is an employer's responsibility to
enforce the use of appropriate safety
protective equipment by the tool opera-
tors and by other persons in the immedi-
ate working area.

5ENGLISH
Power tool use and care
1. Do not force the power tool. Use the cor-
rect power tool for your application. The
correct power tool will do the job better and
safer at the rate for which it was designed.
2. Do not use the power tool if the switch
does not turn it on and off. Any power tool
that cannot be controlled with the switch is
dangerous and must be repaired.
3. Disconnect the plug from the power
source and/or remove the battery
pack, if detachable, from the power
tool before making any adjustments,
changing accessories, or storing power
tools. Such preventive safety measures
reduce the risk of starting the power tool
accidentally.
4. Store idle power tools out of the reach
of children and do not allow persons
unfamiliar with the power tool or these
instructions to operate the power tool.
Power tools are dangerous in the hands of
untrained users.
5. Maintain power tools and accessories.
Check for misalignment or binding of
moving parts, breakage of parts and any
other condition that may affect the power
tool’s operation. If damaged, have the
power tool repaired before use. Many
accidents are caused by poorly maintained
power tools.
6. Keep cutting tools sharp and clean.
Properly maintained cutting tools with sharp
cutting edges are less likely to bind and are
easier to control.
7. Use the power tool, accessories and
tool bits etc. in accordance with these
instructions, taking into account the
working conditions and the work to be
performed. Use of the power tool for oper-
ations different from those intended could
result in a hazardous situation.
8. Keep handles and grasping surfaces
dry, clean and free from oil and grease.
Slippery handles and grasping surfaces do
not allow for safe handling and control of the
tool in unexpected situations.
9.
When using the tool, do not wear cloth
work gloves which may be entangled.
The entanglement of cloth work gloves in the
moving parts may result in personal injury.
Battery tool use and care
1. Recharge only with the charger specied
by the manufacturer. A charger that is suit-
able for one type of battery pack may create
a risk of re when used with another battery
pack.
2. Use power tools only with specically
designated battery packs. Use of any
other battery packs may create a risk of
injury and re.
3. When battery pack is not in use, keep it
away from other metal objects, like paper
clips, coins, keys, nails, screws or other
small metal objects, that can make a
connection from one terminal to another.
Shorting the battery terminals together may
cause burns or a re.
4. Under abusive conditions, liquid may be
ejected from the battery; avoid contact.
If contact accidentally occurs, ush with
water. If liquid contacts eyes, addition-
ally seek medical help. Liquid ejected from
the battery may cause irritation or burns.
5. Do not use a battery pack or tool that is
damaged or modied. Damaged or mod-
ied batteries may exhibit unpredictable
behaviour resulting in re, explosion or risk
of injury.
6. Do not expose a battery pack or tool to
re or excessive temperature. Exposure
to re or temperature above 130 °C may
cause explosion.
7.
Follow all charging instructions and do not
charge the battery pack or tool outside the
temperature range specied in the instruc-
tions. Charging improperly or at temperatures
outside the specied range may damage the
battery and increase the risk of re.
Service
1. Have your power tool serviced by a qual-
ied repair person using only identical
replacement parts. This will ensure that
the safety of the power tool is maintained.
2. Never service damaged battery packs.
Service of battery packs should only be per-
formed by the manufacturer or authorized
service providers.
3. Follow instruction for lubricating and
changing accessories.
4. Do not modify or attempt to repair the
appliance or the battery pack except as
indicated in the instructions for use and
care.
Cordless Chain saw safety warnings
1. Keep all parts of the body away from the
saw chain when the chain saw is operat-
ing. Before you start the chain saw, make
sure the saw chain is not contacting
anything. A moment of inattention while
operating chain saws may cause entangle-
ment of your clothing or body with the saw
chain.

6ENGLISH
2. Always hold the chain saw with your
right hand on the top handle and your
left hand on the front handle. Holding the
chain saw with a reversed hand congura-
tion increases the risk of personal injury and
should never be done.
3.
Hold the power tool by insulated gripping
surfaces only, because the saw chain
may contact hidden wiring. Saw chains
contacting a "live" wire may make exposed
metal parts of the power tool "live" and could
give the operator an electric shock.
4. Wear safety glasses and hearing protection.
Further protective equipment for head, hands,
legs and feet is recommended. Adequate protec-
tive clothing will reduce personal injury by ying
debris or accidental contact with the saw chain.
5. Always keep proper footing.
6. When cutting a limb that is under tension
be alert for spring back. When the tension
in the wood bres is released the spring
loaded limb may strike the operator and/or
throw the chain saw out of control.
7. Use extreme caution when cutting brush
and saplings. The slender material may
catch the saw chain and be whipped toward
you or pull you off balance.
8. Carry the chain saw by the front handle
with the chain saw switched off and
away from your body. When transporting
or storing the chain saw always t the
guide bar cover. Proper handling of the
chain saw will reduce the likelihood of acci-
dental contact with the moving saw chain.
9.
Follow instructions for lubricating, chain ten-
sioning and changing accessories. Improperly
tensioned or lubricated chain may either break or
increase the chance for kickback.
10. Keep handles dry, clean, and free from
oil and grease. Greasy, oily handles are
slippery causing loss of control.
11.
Cut wood only. Do not use chain saw for
purposes not intended. For example: do not
use chain saw for cutting plastic, masonry or
non-wood building materials. Use of the chain
saw for operations different than intended
could result in a hazardous situation.
12. Causes and operator prevention of kickback:
Kickback may occur when the nose or tip
of the guide bar touches an object, or when
the wood closes in and pinches the saw
chain in the cut. Tip contact in some cases
may cause a sudden reverse reaction, kick-
ing the guide bar up and back towards the
operator. Pinching the saw chain along the
top of the guide bar may push the guide bar
rapidly back towards the operator. Either of
these reactions may cause you to lose con-
trol of the saw which could result in serious
personal injury. Do not rely exclusively upon
the safety devices built into your saw. As
a chain saw user, you should take several
steps to keep your cutting jobs free from
accident or injury.
Kickback is the result of tool misuse and/or
incorrect operating procedures or conditions
and can be avoided by taking proper pre-
cautions as given below:
• Maintain a rm grip, with thumbs and
ngers encircling the chain saw han-
dles, with both hands on the saw and
position your body and arm to allow
you to resist kickback forces. Kickback
forces can be controlled by the opera-
tor, if proper precautions are taken. Do
not let go of the chain saw.
• Do not overreach and do not cut above
shoulder height. This helps prevent
unintended tip contact and enables
better control of the chain saw in unex-
pected situations.
•
Only use replacement bars and chains
specied by the manufacturer. Incorrect
replacement bars and chains may cause
chain breakage and/or kickback.
• Follow the manufacturer’s sharpening
and maintenance instructions for the
saw chain. Decreasing the depth gauge
height can lead to increased kickback.
13. Before starting work, check that the chain
saw is in proper working order and that its
condition complies with the safety regula-
tions. Check in particular that:
• The chain brake is working properly;
• The run-down brake is working
properly;
• The bar and the sprocket cover are
tted correctly;
• The chain has been sharpened and
tensioned in accordance with the
regulations.

7ENGLISH
14. Do not start the chain saw with the chain
cover being installed on it. Starting the
chain saw with the chain cover being installed
on it may cause the chain cover to thrown out
forward resulting in personal injury and dam-
age to objects around the operator.
Additional Safety Warnings:
1.
When using the tool with battery adapter, be
careful not to trip over the cord during operation.
2. When using the tool with battery adapter,
keep the cord away from obstacles such
as a workpiece and branches during
operation. The cord caught by obstacles
may cause serious injury.
Top handle chainsaw specic safety
warnings
1. Perform cleaning and maintenance
before storage in accordance with the
instruction manual.
2.
Ensure safe positioning of the chain saw during
car transportation to avoid fuel or chain oil
leakage, damage to the tool and personal injury.
3. Regularly check the functionality of
chain brake.
4. Do not ll the chain oil near re. Never
smoke when you ll the chain oil.
5. National regulation may restrict the use
of the chain saw.
6.
If the equipment gets heavy impact or
fall, check the condition before continu-
ing work. Check the controls and safety
devices for malfunction. If there is any
damage or doubt, ask our authorized ser-
vice center for the inspection and repair.
7. Always activate the chain brake before
starting the chain saw.
8. Hold the saw rmly in place to avoid
skating (skid movement) or bouncing of
the saw when starting a cut.
9. At the end of the cut, be careful to keep
your balance due to the “drop”.
10. Take into account the direction and
speed of the wind. Avoid sawdust and
chain oil mist.
Protective equipment
1.
In order to avoid head, eye, hand or foot
injuries as well as to protect your hearing
the following protective equipment must
be used during operation of the chain saw:
— The kind of clothing should be appro-
priate, i. e. it should be tight-tting
but not be a hindrance. Do not wear
jewelry or clothing which could become
entangled with bushes or shrubs. If you
have long hair, always wear a hairnet!
—
It is necessary to wear a protective helmet
whenever working with the chain saw. The
protective helmet is to be checked in
regular intervals for damage and is to be
replaced after 5 years at the latest. Use
only approved protective helmets.
— The face shield of the protective helmet
(or the goggles) protects against saw-
dust and wood chips. During operation of
the chain saw always wear a goggle or a
face shield to prevent eye injuries.
— Wear adequate noise protection
equipment (ear muffs, ear plugs, etc.)
—
The protective jacket consists of 22
layers of nylon and protects the operator
against cuts. It is always to be worn when
working from elevated platforms (cherry
pickers, lifts), from platforms mounted on
ladders or when climbing with ropes.
— The protective brace and bib overall is made
of a nylon fabric with 22 layers and protects
against cuts. We strongly recommend its use.
— Protective gloves made of thick
leather are part of the prescribed
equipment and must always be worn
during operation of the chain saw.
—
During operation of the chain saw safety
shoes or safety boots tted with anti
skid sole, steel toe caps and protection
for the leg must always to be worn.
Safety shoes equipped with a protective
layer provide protection against cuts and
ensure a secure footing. For working in
trees the safety boots must be suitable
for climbing techniques.
Vibration
1. Individuals with poor circulation who are
exposed to excessive vibration may experi-
ence injury to blood vessels or the nervous
system. Vibration may cause the following
symptoms to occur in the ngers, hands or
wrists: “Falling asleep” (numbness), tingling,
pain, stabbing sensation, alteration of skin
colour or of the skin. If any of these symp-
toms occur, see a physician! To reduce
the risk of “white nger disease”, keep your
hands warm during operation and well
maintain the equipment and accessories.
SAVE THESE INSTRUCTIONS.
WARNING: DO NOT let comfort or famil-
iarity with product (gained from repeated
use) replace strict adherence to safety
rules for the subject product. MISUSE or
failure to follow the safety rules stated in
this instruction manual may cause serious
personal injury.

8ENGLISH
Symbols
The followings show the symbols used for tool.
volts
direct current
meter per second
feet per minute
parts number of applicable saw
chain and guide bar
Wear a helmet, goggles and ear
protection.
Use appropriate protection for
foot-leg and hand-arm.
Do not expose to moisture.
Always use two hands when
operating the chain saw.
Beware of chain saw kickback
and avoid contact with bar tip.
Important safety instructions for
battery cartridge
1. Before using battery cartridge, read all instruc-
tions and cautionary markings on (1) battery
charger, (2) battery, and (3) product using battery.
2. Do not disassemble battery cartridge.
3.
If operating time has become excessively
shorter, stop operating immediately. It
may result in a risk of overheating, possi-
ble burns and even an explosion.
4. If electrolyte gets into your eyes, rinse
them out with clear water and seek med-
ical attention right away. It may result in
loss of your eyesight.
5. Do not short the battery cartridge:
(1) Do not touch the terminals with any
conductive material.
(2) Avoid storing battery cartridge in a
container with other metal objects
such as nails, coins, etc.
(3) Do not expose battery cartridge to
water or rain.
A battery short can cause a large current
ow, overheating, possible burns and
even a breakdown.
6. Do not store the tool and battery car-
tridge in locations where the tempera-
ture may reach or exceed 50 °C (122 °F).
7. Do not incinerate the battery cartridge
even if it is severely damaged or is com-
pletely worn out. The battery cartridge
can explode in a re.
8. Be careful not to drop or strike battery.
9. Do not use a damaged battery.
10. The contained lithium-ion batteries
are subject to the Dangerous Goods
Legislation requirements.
For commercial transports e.g. by third
parties, forwarding agents, special require-
ment on packaging and labeling must be
observed.
For preparation of the item being shipped,
consulting an expert for hazardous material
is required. Please also observe possibly
more detailed national regulations.
Tape or mask off open contacts and pack up
the battery in such a manner that it cannot
move around in the packaging.
11. When disposing the battery cartridge,
remove it from the tool and dispose of it
in a safe place. Follow your local regula-
tions relating to disposal of battery.
12. Use the batteries only with the products
specied by Makita. Installing the batteries
to non-compliant products may result in a
re, excessive heat, explosion, or leak of
electrolyte.
13. If the tool is not used for a long period of
time, the battery must be removed from
the tool.
SAVE THESE INSTRUCTIONS.
CAUTION: Only use genuine Makita bat-
teries. Use of non-genuine Makita batteries,
or batteries that have been altered, may result
in the battery bursting causing res, personal
injury and damage. It will also void the Makita
warranty for the Makita tool and charger.
Tips for maintaining maximum
battery life
1. Charge the battery cartridge before
completely discharged. Always stop tool
operation and charge the battery car-
tridge when you notice less tool power.
2. Never recharge a fully charged battery
cartridge. Overcharging shortens the
battery service life.
3. Charge the battery cartridge with room
temperature at 10 °C - 40 °C (50 °F - 104
°F). Let a hot battery cartridge cool down
before charging it.
4. Charge the battery cartridge if you do
not use it for a long period (more than
six months).

9ENGLISH
PARTS DESCRIPTION
345
78
14
15
17
9
1011
12
1920
22
18
13
16
26
21
1
1Battery indicator 2Check button 3Switch trigger
4Top handle 5Lock-off lever 6Front hand guard
7Guide bar 8Saw chain 9Chain catcher
10 Retaining nut 11 Chain adjusting screw 12 Battery cartridge
13 Main power lamp 14 Mode indicator 15 Main power switch
16 Cap 17 Adjusting screw (for oil
pump)
18 Carabiner
19 Front handle 20 Oil tank cap 21 Spike bumper
22 Guide bar cover ----

10 ENGLISH
FUNCTIONAL
DESCRIPTION
CAUTION: Always be sure that the tool
is switched off and the battery cartridge is
removed before adjusting or checking func-
tion on the tool.
Installing or removing battery
cartridge
CAUTION: Always switch off the tool
before installing or removing of the battery
cartridge.
CAUTION: Hold the tool and the battery
cartridge rmly when installing or removing
battery cartridge. Failure to hold the tool and
the battery cartridge rmly may cause them to
slip off your hands and result in damage to the
tool and battery cartridge and a personal injury.
1
2
3
► 1. Red indicator 2. Button 3. Battery cartridge
To remove the battery cartridge, slide it from the
tool while sliding the button on the front of the
cartridge.
To install the battery cartridge, align the tongue
on the battery cartridge with the groove in the
housing and slip it into place. Insert it all the way
until it locks in place with a little click. If you can
see the red indicator on the upper side of the
button, it is not locked completely.
CAUTION: Always install the battery
cartridge fully until the red indicator cannot
be seen. If not, it may accidentally fall out of
the tool, causing injury to you or someone
around you.
CAUTION: Do not install the battery car-
tridge forcibly. If the cartridge does not slide
in easily, it is not being inserted correctly.
Indicating the remaining battery capacity
21
► 1. Battery indicator 2. Check button
Press the check button to indicate the remaining
battery capacities. The battery indicators corre-
spond to each battery.
Battery indicator status Remaining
battery
capacity
On Off Blinking
50% to
100%
20% to
50%
0% to
20%
Charge
the
battery
Indicating the remaining battery capacity
Only for battery cartridges with the indicator
1
2
► 1. Indicator lamps 2. Check button
Press the check button on the battery cartridge
to indicate the remaining battery capacity. The
indicator lamps light up for a few seconds.

11 ENGLISH
Indicator lamps Remaining
capacity
Lighted Off Blinking
75% to
100%
50% to
75%
25% to
50%
0% to
25%
Charge
the
battery.
The bat-
tery may
have
malfunc-
tioned.
NOTE: Depending on the conditions of use
and the ambient temperature, the indication
may differ slightly from the actual capacity.
Tool / battery protection system
The tool is equipped with a tool/battery protection
system. This system automatically cuts off power to
the motor to extend tool and battery life. The tool will
automatically stop during operation if the tool or bat-
tery is placed under one of the following conditions:
Overload protection
When the battery is operated in a manner that
causes it to draw an abnormally high current, the
tool automatically stops and the main power lamp
blinks in green. In this situation, turn the tool off and
stop the application that caused the tool to become
overloaded. Then turn the tool on to restart.
Overheat protection
When the tool or battery is overheated, the tool
stops automatically and the main power lamp
lights up in red. In this case, let the tool and bat-
tery cool before turning the tool on again.
NOTE: In high temperature environment, the
overheat protection likely to work and the tool
stops automatically.
Overdischarge protection
When the battery capacity is not enough, the tool
stops automatically and the main power lamp
blinks in red. In this case, remove the battery
from the tool and charge the battery.
Main power switch
WARNING: Always turn off the main
power switch when not in use.
To turn on the tool, press the main power switch
until the main power lamp lights up in green. To
turn off, press the main power switch again.
21
3
► 1. Main power lamp 2. Mode indicator
3. Main power switch
NOTE: The main power lamp blinks in green if
the switch trigger is pulled under unoperatable
conditions. The lamp blinks in one of the fol-
lowing conditions.
• When you turn on the main power switch
while holding down the lock-off lever and
the switch trigger.
• When you pull the switch trigger while the
chain brake is applied.
• When you release the chain brake while
holding down the lock-off lever and pulling
the switch trigger.
NOTE: This tool employs the auto power-off
function. To avoid unintentional start up, the
main power switch will automatically shut
down when the switch trigger is not pulled for
a certain period after the main power switch is
turned on.
You can use the tool in the Torque Boost mode
for cutting thick branches or hard branches. To
use the tool in the Torque Boost mode, when the
tool is turned off, press the main power switch for
a few seconds until the mode indicator lights up
in green.

12 ENGLISH
NOTE: You can use the tool in the Torque
Boost mode up to 60 seconds. Depending on
the usage conditions, this mode shifts to the
normal mode in less than 60 seconds.
NOTE: If the mode indicator blinks in green
when you press the main power switch for a
few seconds, the Torque Boost mode is not
available. In this case, follow the steps below.
• The Torque Boost mode is not available
right after the cutting operation. Wait for
more than 10 seconds, and then press
the main power switch for a few seconds
again.
• If you use the Torque Boost mode several
times, the use of the Torque Boost mode
is restricted to protect the battery. If the
Torque Boost mode is not available after
waiting for more than 10 seconds, replace
the battery cartridge with a fully charged
one, or recharge the battery cartridge.
NOTE: If the main power lamp lights up in red
or blinks in red or green, refer to the instruc-
tions for tool/battery protection system.
Switch action
WARNING: For your safety, this tool is
equipped with lock-off lever which prevents
the tool from unintended starting. NEVER
use the tool if it runs when you simply
pull the switch trigger without pressing
the lock-off lever. Return the tool to our
authorized service center for proper repairs
BEFORE further usage.
WARNING: NEVER tape down or defeat
purpose and function of lock-off lever.
CAUTION: Before installing the battery
cartridge into the tool, always check to see
that the switch trigger actuates properly
and returns to the "OFF" position when
released.
NOTICE: Do not pull the switch trigger hard
without pressing the lock-off lever. This can
cause switch breakage.
To prevent the switch trigger from being acci-
dentally pulled, a lock-off lever is provided. To
start the tool, depress the lock-off lever and pull
the switch trigger. The tool speed increases
by increasing pressure on the switch trigger.
Release the switch trigger to stop.
1
2
► 1. Switch trigger 2. Lock-off lever
Checking the chain brake
CAUTION: Hold the chain saw with both
hands when switching it on. Hold the top
handle with your right hand, the front han-
dle with your left. The bar and the chain
must not be in contact with any object.
CAUTION: Should the saw chain not stop
immediately when this test is performed,
the saw may not be used under any circum-
stances. Consult our authorized service
center.
1. Press the lock-off lever, then pull the switch
trigger. The saw chain starts immediately.

13 ENGLISH
2. Push the front hand guard forwards with the
back of your hand. Make sure that the chain saw
comes to an immediate standstill.
1
23
23
► 1. Front hand guard 2. Unlocked position
3. Locked position
Checking the run-down brake
CAUTION: If the saw chain does not stop
within two seconds in this test, stop using
the chain saw and consult our authorized
service center.
Run the chain saw then release the switch trig-
ger completely. The saw chain must come to a
standstill within two seconds.
Adjusting the chain lubrication
You can adjust the oil pump feed rate with the
adjusting screw using the universal wrench. The
amount of oil can be adjusted in 3 steps. Open
the cap to adjust the adjusting screw.
1
2
► 1. Cap 2. Adjusting screw
Carabiner (rope attachment point)
You can hang the tool by attaching the rope to
the carabiner. Pull up the carabiner, and then tie
it with the rope.
1
► 1. Carabiner
Electronic function
The tool is equipped with the electronic functions
for easy operation.
• Constant speed control
The speed control function provides the
constant rotation speed regardless of load
conditions.

14 ENGLISH
ASSEMBLY
CAUTION: Always be sure that the tool
is switched off and the battery cartridge is
removed before carrying out any work on
the tool.
CAUTION: Do not touch the saw chain
with bare hands. Always wear gloves when
handling the saw chain.
Removing or installing saw chain
CAUTION: The saw chain and the guide
bar are still hot just after the operation. Let
them cool down enough before carrying out
any work on the tool.
CAUTION: Carry out the procedure of
installing or removing saw chain in a clean
place free from sawdust and the like.
To remove the saw chain, perform the following
steps:
1. Release the chain brake by pulling the front
hand guard.
2. Loosen the chain adjusting screw, then the
retaining nut.
12
► 1. Chain adjusting screw 2. Retaining nut
3. Remove the sprocket cover then remove
the saw chain and guide bar from the chain saw
body.
To install the saw chain, perform the following
steps:
1. Check the direction of the saw chain. Match
the direction of the saw chain with that of the
mark on the chain saw body.
2. Fit one end of the saw chain on the top of
the guide bar.
3. Fit the other end of the saw chain around
the sprocket, then attach the guide bar to the
chain saw body, aligning the hole on the guide
bar with the pin on the chain saw body.
12
► 1. Sprocket 2. Hole
4.
Insert the protrusion and the pin on the
sprocket cover to the chain saw body, and then
close the cover so that the bolt and pin on the chain
saw body meet their counterparts on the cover.
2
3
4
1
4
► 1. Protrusion 2. Sprocket cover 3. Bolt 4. Pin
5.
Tighten the retaining nut to secure the sprocket
cover, then loosen it a bit for tension adjustment.
1
► 1. Retaining nut

15 ENGLISH
Adjusting saw chain tension
CAUTION: Do not tighten the saw chain
too much. Excessively high tension of saw
chain may cause breakage of saw chain and
wear of the guide bar.
CAUTION: A chain which is too loose
can jump off the bar and it may cause an
injury accident.
The saw chain may become loose after many
hours of use. From time to time check the saw
chain tension before use.
1. Release the chain brake by pulling the front
hand guard.
2. Loosen the retaining nut a bit to loosen the
sprocket cover lightly.
1
► 1. Retaining nut
3.
Lift up the guide bar tip slightly and adjust the
chain tension. Turn the chain adjusting screw clock-
wise to tighten, turn it counterclockwise to loosen.
For chain blade 90PX and 91PX:
Tighten the saw chain until the lower side of the
saw chain ts in the guide bar rail as illustrated.
1
2
3
► 1. Guide bar 2. Saw chain 3. Chain adjusting
screw
For chain blade 25AP:
Tighten the saw chain so that the gap between the cen-
ter of the lower side of the guide bar and the saw chain
becomes approximately 1 mm (1/32″) to 2 mm (1/16″).
4. Keep holding the guide bar lightly and
tighten the sprocket cover.
For chain blade 90PX and 91PX:
Make sure that the saw chain does not loose at
the lower side.
For chain blade 25AP:
Make sure that the gap between the center of the
lower side of the guide bar and the saw chain is
approximately 1 mm (1/32″) to 2 mm (1/16″).
5.
Tighten the retaining nut to secure the sprocket cover.
1
► 1. Retaining nut
OPERATION
Lubrication
Saw chain is automatically lubricated when the tool is
in operation. Check the amount of remaining oil in the
oil tank periodically through the oil inspection window.
To rell the tank, lay the chain saw on its side, then push
the oil tank cap, and then remove the oil tank cap. The
proper amount of oil is 200 ml (6.8  oz). After relling the
tank, make sure that the oil tank cap is tightened securely.
1
2
► 1. Oil tank cap 2. Oil inspection window

16 ENGLISH
After relling, hold the chain saw away from the
tree. Start it and wait until lubrication on saw
chain is adequate.
NOTICE: When lling the chain oil for the
rst time, or relling the tank after it has
been completely emptied, add oil up to the
bottom edge of the ller neck. The oil deliv-
ery may otherwise be impaired.
NOTICE: Use the saw chain oil exclusively
for Makita chain saws or equivalent oil
available in the market.
NOTICE: Never use oil including dust and
particles or volatile oil.
NOTICE: When pruning trees, use botanical
oil. Mineral oil may harm trees.
NOTICE: Before the cutting operation,
make sure that the provided oil tank cap is
screwed in place.
WORKING WITH THE CHAIN SAW
CAUTION: The rst time user should, as
a minimum practice, do cutting logs on a
saw-horse or cradle.
CAUTION: When sawing precut timber,
use a safe support (saw horse or cradle).
Do not steady the workpiece with your foot,
and do not allow anyone else to hold or
steady it.
CAUTION: Secure round pieces against
rotation.
CAUTION: Keep all parts of the body
away from the saw chain when the motor is
operating.
CAUTION: Hold the chain saw rmly with
both hands when the motor is running.
CAUTION: Do not overreach. Keep
proper footing and balance at all times.
NOTICE: Never toss or drop the tool.
NOTICE: Do not cover the vents of the tool.
Pruning trees
Bring the chain saw body into contact with the
branch to be cut before switching on. Otherwise
it may cause the guide bar to wobble, resulting
in injury to operator. Saw the wood to be cut by
just moving it down by using the weight of the
chain saw.
If you cannot cut the timber right through with a
single stroke:
Apply light pressure to the handle and continue
sawing and draw the chain saw back a little.
When cutting thick branches, rst make a shal-
low undercut and then make the nish cut from
the top.
1
2

17 ENGLISH
If you try to cut off thick branches from the
bottom, the branch may close in and pinch the
saw chain in the cut. If you try to cut off thick
branches from the top without a shallow under-
cut, the branch may splinter.
Bucking
1. Rest the chain saw body on the wood to be
cut.
2. With the saw chain running, saw into the
wood while using the top handle to raise the saw
and the front one to guide it.
3. Continue the cut by applying slight pressure
to the top handle, easing the saw back slightly.
NOTICE: When making several cuts, switch
the chain saw off between cuts.
CAUTION: If the upper edge of the bar
is used for cutting, the chain saw may be
deected in your direction if the chain
becomes trapped. For this reason, cut
with the lower edge, so that the saw will be
deected away from your body.
When you cut a wood under tension, cut the
pressured side (A) rst. Then make the nal cut
from the tensioned side (B). This prevents the
bar from becoming trapped.
A
B
A
B
Limbing
CAUTION: Limbing may only be per-
formed by trained persons. A hazard is pre-
sented by the risk of kickback.
When limbing, support the chain saw on the
trunk if possible. Do not cut with the tip of the
bar, as this presents a risk of kickback.
Pay particular attention to branches under ten-
sion. Do not cut unsupported branches from
below.
Do not stand on the felled trunk when limbing.

18 ENGLISH
Carrying tool
Before carrying the tool, always apply the chain
brake and remove the battery cartridges from the
tool. Then attach the guide bar cover. Also cover
the battery cartridge with the battery cover.
1
2
► 1. Guide bar cover 2. Battery cover
MAINTENANCE
CAUTION: Always be sure that the tool
is switched off and the battery cartridge
is removed before attempting to perform
inspection or maintenance.
CAUTION: Always wear gloves when
performing any inspection or maintenance.
NOTICE: Never use gasoline, benzine,
thinner, alcohol or the like. Discoloration,
deformation or cracks may result.
To maintain product SAFETY and RELIABILITY,
repairs, any other maintenance or adjustment
should be performed by Makita Authorized or
Factory Service Centers, always using Makita
replacement parts.
Sharpening the saw chain
Sharpen the saw chain when:
• Mealy sawdust is produced when damp
wood is cut;
• The chain penetrates the wood with dif-
culty, even when heavy pressure is applied;
• The cutting edge is obviously damaged;
• The saw pulls to the left or right in the wood.
(caused by uneven sharpening of the saw
chain or damage to one side only)
Sharpen the saw chain frequently but a little each
time. Two or three strokes with a le are usually
sufcient for routine resharpening. When the saw
chain has been resharpened several times, have
it sharpened in our authorized service center.
Sharpening criteria:
WARNING: An excessive distance
between the cutting edge and depth gauge
increases the risk of kickback.
22
11
31
► 1. Cutter length 2. Distance between cutting
edge and depth gauge 3. Minimum cutter
length (3 mm (1/8"))
— All cutter length must be equal. Different
cutter lengths prevent the saw chain from
running smoothly and may cause the saw
chain to break.
— Do not sharpen the chain when the cutter
length has reached 3 mm (1/8") or shorter.
The chain must be replaced with new one.
— The chip thickness is determined by the
distance between the depth gauge (round
nose) and the cutting edge.
— The best cutting results are obtained with
following distance between cutting edge
and depth gauge.
• Chain blade 90PX : 0.65 mm (0.025″)
• Chain blade 91PX : 0.65 mm (0.025″)
• Chain blade 25AP : 0.65 mm (0.025″)
30
30
55 55
— The sharpening angle of 30° must be
the same on all cutters. Different cutter
angles cause the chain to run roughly and
unevenly, accelerate wear, and lead to
chain breaks.

19 ENGLISH
— Use a suitable round le so that the proper
sharpening angle is kept against the teeth.
• Chain blade 90PX : 55°
• Chain blade 91PX : 55°
• Chain blade 25AP : 55°
File and le guiding
— Use a special round le (optional accessory)
for saw chains to sharpen the chain. Normal
round les are not suitable.
— Diameter of the round le for each saw
chain is as follows:
• Chain blade 90PX : 4.5 mm (3/16″)
• Chain blade 91PX : 4.0 mm (5/32″)
• Chain blade 25AP : 4.0 mm (5/32″)
— The le should only engage the cutter on
the forward stroke. Lift the le off the cutter
on the return stroke.
—
Sharpen the shortest cutter rst. Then the
length of this shortest cutter becomes the
standard for all other cutters on the saw chain.
— Guide the le as shown in the gure.
1
2
► 1. File 2. Saw chain
—
The le can be guided more easily if a le holder
(optional accessory) is employed. The le holder has
markings for the correct sharpening angle of 30° (align
the markings parallel to the saw chain) and limits the
depth of penetration (to 4/5 of the le diameter).
30
1/5
1
► 1. File holder
— After sharpening the chain, check the height
of the depth gauge using the chain gauge
tool (optional accessory).
— Remove any projecting material, how-
ever small, with a special at le (optional
accessory).
—
Round off the front of the depth gauge again.
Cleaning the guide bar
Chips and sawdust will build up in the guide bar
groove. They may clog the bar groove and impair
the oil ow. Clean out the chips and sawdust every
time when you sharpen or replace the saw chain.
Cleaning the sprocket cover
Chips and saw dust will accumulate inside of the
sprocket cover. Remove the sprocket cover and saw
chain from the tool then clean the chips and saw dust.

20 ENGLISH
Cleaning the oil discharge hole
Small dust or particles may be built up in the oil
discharge hole during operation. These dust or
particles may impair the oil to ow and cause an
insufcient lubrication on the whole saw chain.
When a poor chain oil delivery occurs at the
top of guide bar, clean the oil discharge hole as
follows.
1. Remove the sprocket cover and saw chain
from the tool.
2. Remove the small dust or particles using a
slotted screwdriver or the like.
1
2
► 1. Slotted screwdriver 2. Oil discharge hole
3.
Insert the battery cartridge into the tool. Pull
the switch trigger to ow built-up dust or particles
off the oil discharge hole by discharging chain oil.
4. Remove the battery cartridge from the tool.
Reinstall the sprocket cover and saw chain on
the tool.
Replacing the sprocket
CAUTION: A worn sprocket will dam-
age a new saw chain. Have the sprocket
replaced in this case.
Before tting a new saw chain, check the condi-
tion of the sprocket.
1
2
► 1. Sprocket 2. Areas to be worn out
Always t a new locking ring when replacing the
sprocket.
1
2
► 1. Locking ring 2. Sprocket
NOTICE: Make sure that the sprocket is
installed as shown in the gure.
Storing the tool
1. Clean the tool before storing. Remove any
chips and sawdust from the tool after removing
the sprocket cover.
2. After cleaning the tool, run it under no load
to lubricate the saw chain and guide bar.
3. Cover the guide bar with the guide bar
cover.
4. Empty the oil tank.