I S H
General Working Instructions
E N G L
A
B
CAUTION!
A chain brake may not always activate during a kickback. A chain brake can provide its intended protection only if it is properly maintained.
A neglected and abused chain brake might not work when you need it most. Test the chain brake periodically to be sure it will work for you if you have a kickback. We recommend that you test the chain brake after each work breake. If the chain brake does not activate, clean it and check that the mechanism is not damaged. If the chain brake still does not work, take your chain saw to your service dealer for repair.
Please refer to your Operator’s Manual for the proper testing procedure for your saw’s chain brake.
Chain brake
One safety feature of the chain saw is the chain brake. It will not prevent a kickback, but is designed to reduce the severity of certain kickbacks. When the chain brake is triggered, a mechanism which locks the clutch drum is activated and stops the saw chain almost instantly.
The mechanism can be reset by moving the hand guard back against the front handle (B).
The chain brake is triggered when the hand guard is moved forward (A). This may occur when your left hand/wrist touches the hand guard during a kickback.
Will My Hand Always Activate the Saw Chain Brake During a Kickback?
No. It takes a certain amount of force to move the handle forward. If your hand only lightly touches the front guard or slips over it, the force may not be enough to trigger the chain brake. It is important that you maintain a firm grip on the chain saw handles while working. If you do and experience a kickback, your hand might not leave the front handle to activate the chain brake or the chain brake will be activated by your wrist only after the saw has swung around a considerable distance. In such instances, it might not be enough time for the chain brake to stop the chain before it touches you.
Does a Chain Brake Work in All Situations and Positions?
No. First, the chainbrake must be properly maintained to work. Second, there are certain positions in which the chain may not activate. Third, the chain brake must be activated to stop the chain. If it is not activated, the chain will continue to run. Fourth, the chain brake might not have enough time to bring the chain to a standstill before it reaches your body if you are too close to the cutting bar due to improper working technique.
IMPORTANT!
Kickback and its possible consequences can be avoided:
•Use proper working techniques.
•Do not use the kickback danger zone of the bar.
•Avoid unsafe positions.
•Use proper grip.
•Cut at high speed.
•Maintain control over your work piece.
•Be alert.
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