Before operating your chainsaw, ensure that it is fully and properly assembled. Turn the engine off and remove the spark plug cap from the spark plug before attempting to service your equipment. Wear heavy protective gloves while working with the chains on your equipment, especially while working with chains and bars.
The following instructions are based on the DCS6400, DCS6401, DCS6420, DCS6421, DCS7300, DCS7301, DCS7900, and DCS7901 model Makita chainsaws. Always read and be familiar with your equipment's operator's manual to understand the specific parts and procedures that pertain to your equipment.
Mounting the Guide Bar and Saw Chain
- Step 1: Set your chainsaw on a flat surface.
- Step 2: Pull the hand guard to release the chain brake.
- Step 3: Unscrew the retaining nuts on the lower right side of the power head.
- Step 4: Remove the sprocket guard.
- Step 5: Place the guide bar against the sprocket and the bolts through the slit on the guide bar.
- Step 6: Place the chain on the sprocket and position the chain in the groove on top of the guide bar.
- Step 7: Pull the chain around the front of the guide bar so that it is wrapped around the nose of the guide bar.
- Step 8: Guide the chain so that it goes over the chain catcher at the bottom of the guide bar.
- Step 9: If you need to remove slack in the chain, gently move the guide bar to the right to pull slack out of the chain.
- Step 10: Line up the holes and tensioning screw on the sprocket guard with the bolts and bottom hole on the guide bar.
- Step 11: Attach the sprocket guard and tighten the nuts.
Tightening the Saw Chain
- Step 1: Slightly loosen the retaining nuts on the bolts that connect the sprocket guard and guide bar.
- Step 2: Lift the guide bar up slightly.
- Step 3: Turn the chain adjusting screw on the sprocket guard clockwise until the chain is tight against the bottom of the guide bar.
- Step 4: Tighten the retaining nuts using a universal wrench while you still have the guide bar lifted.
For information about safety, warranty, and your specific model, read and be familiar with your owner’s manual.