OPERATION

CUTTING SPRING POLES

See Figure 37.

A spring pole (A) is any log, branch, rooted stump, or sapling which is bent under tension by other wood so that it springs back if the wood holding it is cut or removed. On a fallen tree, a rooted stump has a high potential of springing back to the upright position during the bucking cut to separate the log from the stump. Watch out for spring-poles; they are dangerous.

WARNING:

Spring poles are dangerous and could strike the operator causing the operator to lose control of the chainsaw. This could result in severe or fatal injury to the operator.

MAINTENANCE

ASSEMBLING THE BAR AND CHAIN

See Figures 3 and 38 to 47.

DANGER:

Never start the engine before installing the guide bar, chain, drivecase cover, and clutch drum. Without all these parts in place, the clutch can fly off or explode exposing the user to possible serious injury.

WARNING:

To avoid serious personal injury, read and understand all the safety instructions in this section.

1.Always place the switch in the stop “O” position before you work on the saw.

2.Make sure the chain brake is not set by pulling the chain brake lever/hand guard towards the front handle to the RUN position (A). See Figure 3.

3.Wear gloves when handling the chain and bar. These components are sharp and may contain burrs.

4.Remove the bar mounting nuts (B) using a combination wrench (C) or a 5/8 in. spanner.

5.Remove the clutch cover (D), and the outer guide bar plate (E).

6.Lay out the saw chain in a loop and straighten any kinks. The cutters (F) should face in the direction of chain rotation (G). If they face backwards, turn the loop over.

7.Place the chain drive links (H) into the bar groove (I).

8.Position the chain so there is a loop at the back of the bar.

9.Hold the chain in position on the bar and place the loop round the sprocket (J).

10.Fit the bar flush against the mounting surface so that the bar studs (K) are in the long slot of the bar.

NOTE: When placing the bar on the bar studs ensure that the adjusting pin (L) is in the chain tension pin hole.

11.Replace the outer guide bar plate ensuring that the bar pin groove is at the bottom with the upper and lower edges angled away from the guide bar.

12.Replace the clutch cover and bar mounting nuts.

13.Tighten the bar mounting nuts finger tight only. The bar must be free to move for tension adjustment.

14.Remove all slack from the chain by turning the chain tensioning screw (M) clockwise until the chain seats snugly against the bar with the drive links in the bar groove.

15.Lift the tip of the guide bar up to check for sagging (N).

16.Release the tip of the guide bar and turn the chain tensioning screw 1/2 turn clockwise. Repeat this process until sagging does not exist.

17.Hold the tip of the guide bar up and tighten the bar mounting nuts (O) securely.

The chain is correctly tensioned when there is no sagging on the underside of the guide bar, the chain is snug, but can be turned by hand without binding. See Figure 47. Ensure that the chain brake is not set.

NOTE: If chain is too tight, it will not rotate. Loosen the bar nuts slightly and turn the tension adjuster 1/4 turn anticlockwise. Lift the tip of the guide bar up and retighten the bar nuts securely.

Ensure that the chain will rotate without binding.

ADJUSTING THE CHAIN TENSION

See Figures 48, 49, and 50.

WARNING:

Never touch or adjust the chain while the motor is running. The saw chain is very sharp. Always wear protective gloves when performing maintenance on the chain.

1.Stop the engine before setting the chain tension.

2.Make sure the guide bar nuts are loosened to finger tight and turn the chain tensioner clockwise to tension the chain.

NOTE: A cold chain is correctly tensioned when there is no slack on the underside of the guide bar, the chain is snug and it can be turned by hand without binding.

3.Retension the chain whenever the flats on the drive links (A) hang out of the bar groove.

NOTE: During normal saw operation, the temperature of the chain increases. The drive links of a correctly tensioned warm chain (B) will hang approximately 1.25 mm (0.05 in.) out of the bar groove. To help determine the correct warm chain tension, the tip of the combination wrench (C) can be used as a guide.

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Homelite UT74121D manual Maintenance, Cutting Spring Poles, Assembling the BAR and Chain, Adjusting the Chain Tension

UT74121D specifications

The Homelite UT74121D is a versatile and efficient string trimmer designed for homeowners and gardening enthusiasts who seek an effective solution for lawn maintenance. This machine excels at tackling overgrown grass, weeds, and edging tasks, offering performance and convenience.

One of the standout features of the Homelite UT74121D is its powerful 14-amp electric motor. This robust motor delivers consistent performance and ample cutting power, making it suitable for various landscaping tasks. Unlike gas-powered trimmers, the electric motor ensures quieter operation with zero emissions, making it an environmentally friendly choice.

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The lightweight design of the Homelite UT74121D contributes to its user-friendliness. Weighing in at just over 10 lbs, it is easy to maneuver, making it suitable for both large yards and tight spaces. The balanced design helps reduce user fatigue, allowing for longer periods of use without strain.

Another key characteristic of the UT74121D is the adjustable telescopic shaft. It can be extended or shortened to accommodate users of different heights, enhancing comfort and control during operation. This customizable feature enables better ergonomics and reduces the risk of back strain.

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In conclusion, the Homelite UT74121D string trimmer is a practical and efficient tool for homeowners looking to maintain their lawns effectively. With its powerful motor, expansive cutting width, lightweight design, adjustable shaft, and safety features, this trimmer checks all the boxes for a reliable gardening companion. Whether you’re edging, trimming, or maintaining your yard, the UT74121D is designed to meet your landscaping needs with ease and efficiency.