Makita XCU05 - User Manual

Questions and Answers

A
Angela NguyenAug 19, 2025
Why my Makita Chainsaw does not start?
- J
  Jeremiah MorrisonAug 20, 2025
  Your Makita Chainsaw might not start due to several reasons: the battery cartridge might not be installed—install a charged battery cartridge. Alternatively, the battery might have a low voltage—recharge it, or replace it if recharging isn't effective. Also, check if the main power switch is off; if so, turn it on again.
V
Victoria NelsonAug 22, 2025
Why the saw chain does not run on my Makita Chainsaw?
- D
  Dana BlackburnAug 22, 2025
  If the saw chain on your Makita Chainsaw isn't running, it's likely that the chain brake is activated. Release the chain brake to allow the chain to run.
J
James HinesAug 25, 2025
Why does my Makita XCU05 not start?
- D
  Deborah SimmonsAug 25, 2025
  If your Makita Chainsaw doesn't start, it could be due to several reasons. First, ensure a charged battery cartridge is correctly installed. If the battery is low, recharge it or replace it if recharging doesn't help. Also, check that the main power switch is turned on, as the chainsaw automatically turns off after a period of inactivity.
B
Brittany WatsonAug 26, 2025
What to do if there is no oil on the chain of Makita XCU05?
- D
  David WilliamsAug 27, 2025
  If there's no oil on the chain of your Makita Chainsaw, the oil tank might be empty, so fill it up. Another possibility is a dirty oil guide groove, which you should clean. Also, check and adjust the oil delivery with the adjusting screw if the oil delivery is poor.
M
Mary DonovanAug 28, 2025
What to do if there is no oil on the chain of my Makita XCU05 Chainsaw?
- J
  Jeffrey ShortAug 28, 2025
  If there's no oil on the chain of your Makita Chainsaw, start by filling the oil tank. If the tank isn't empty, check the oil guide groove and clean it if it's dirty. You may also need to adjust the amount of oil delivery using the adjusting screw if the oil delivery is poor.
S
Sean MartinezAug 30, 2025
Why does my Makita XCU05 Chainsaw motor stop running quickly?
- S
  saveryAug 30, 2025
  If the motor of your Makita Chainsaw stops running after a short time, it's likely that the battery's charge level is low. Try recharging the battery cartridges. If recharging doesn't solve the issue, consider replacing the battery cartridge.
M
Matthew RoySep 1, 2025
How to fix Makita Chainsaw that does not reach maximum RPM?
- P
  Pamela CooperSep 1, 2025
  If your Makita Chainsaw isn't reaching maximum RPM, it could be due to a few reasons. First, check if the battery cartridge is installed improperly and ensure it's correctly installed. The battery power might also be dropping, so try recharging the battery cartridge or replacing it if needed.
T
Tina ScottSep 3, 2025
What to do if Makita Chainsaw has abnormal vibration?
- C
  Christine JonesSep 4, 2025
  If your Makita Chainsaw is vibrating abnormally, immediately stop the machine. This could be due to a loose guide bar or saw chain, so adjust the tension.
W
Wendy MooreSep 5, 2025
Why is the main power lamp blinking green on my Makita Chainsaw?
- L
  lpatelSep 6, 2025
  If the main power lamp on your Makita Chainsaw is blinking green, it means the switch trigger is being pulled under an unoperatable condition. To resolve this, turn on the main power switch and release the chain brake before pulling the switch trigger.
H
hicksallisonSep 7, 2025
Why is Torque Boost mode unavailable on my Makita XCU05 Chainsaw after battery replacement?
- M
  Mary MontgomerySep 8, 2025
  The Torque Boost mode on your Makita Chainsaw might not be available after replacing the battery cartridge due to usage conditions. Try using the tool in normal mode until the installed battery cartridge is empty, then replace it with a fully charged one, or recharge the battery cartridge.

This document provides an instruction manual for the Makita Cordless Chain Saw models XCU05 and XCU06. It includes specifications, safety warnings, functional descriptions, assembly instructions, operation guidelines, and maintenance procedures.

Function Description

The Makita Cordless Chain Saw is a power tool designed for cutting wood. It operates on D.C. 18V battery cartridges and features automatic chain lubrication, a chain brake for safety, and electronic functions such as soft start. The tool is intended for tasks like bucking, limbing, and pruning trees. It also incorporates a tool/battery protection system to extend the life of the tool and battery by automatically cutting off power under certain conditions like overload, overheating, or overdischarge. The Torque Boost mode allows for cutting thick or hard branches by providing increased power for up to 30 seconds.

Important Technical Specifications

Model: XCU05, XCU06
Overall length (without guide bar): 256 mm (10-1/8")
Rated voltage: D.C. 18 V
Net weight: 2.8 - 3.3 kg (6.2 - 7.2 lbs) (depending on attachments and battery cartridge)
Standard guide bar length: XCU05: 200 mm (8"), XCU06: 250 mm (10")
Recommended guide bar length (with 90PX saw chain type): 200 - 250 mm (8" - 10")
Applicable saw chain type: 90PX
Standard sprocket: 6 teeth, 3/8" pitch
Chain speed: 0 - 24 m/s (0 - 1,440 m/min) (0 - 4,720 ft/min)
Chain oil tank volume: 140 cm³ (4.7 fl oz)
Applicable battery cartridges: BL1815N, BL1820B, BL1830, BL1830B, BL1840B, BL1850B, BL1860B (Note: Some may not be available in all regions).
Saw chain, guide bar, and sprocket combination (90PX):
- Number of drive links: 33 (for 200 mm guide bar), 40 (for 250 mm guide bar)
- Guide bar length: 200 mm (8"), 250 mm (10")
- Cutting length: 180 mm (7-1/8"), 244 mm (9-5/8")
- Part No.: 161848-6 (for 200 mm guide bar), 161846-0 (for 250 mm guide bar)
- Pitch: 3/8"
- Gauge: 1.1 mm (0.043")
- Type: Sprocket nose bar

Usage Features

Battery Cartridge Installation/Removal: Always switch off the tool before installing or removing the battery cartridge. Hold both the tool and cartridge firmly to prevent slipping. Ensure the cartridge is fully installed until the red indicator is no longer visible and it locks with a click.
Remaining Battery Capacity Indication: For battery cartridges with an indicator, press the check button to see the remaining capacity via indicator lamps.
Tool/Battery Protection System: The system automatically cuts off power for overload, overheating (main power lamp lights up in red), and overdischarge (main power lamp blinks in red).
Main Power Switch: Press to turn on (green light) or off. The tool has an auto power-off function if idle for a certain period.
Torque Boost Mode: To activate, press the main power switch for a few seconds until the main power lamp lights up in yellow. This mode provides increased power for up to 30 seconds for cutting thick/hard branches. Not available with BL1815N or BL1820B battery cartridges.
Switch Action: Features a lock-off lever to prevent unintentional starting. Depress the lock-off lever and pull the switch trigger to start. Tool speed increases with trigger pressure.
Chain Brake: A safety feature that stops the chain immediately. To check, start the saw and push the front hand guard forward. The chain should stop instantly.
Run-down Brake: The saw chain must come to a standstill within two seconds after releasing the switch trigger.
Adjusting Chain Lubrication: The oil pump feed rate can be adjusted in 3 steps using the universal wrench.
Carabiner (Rope Attachment Point): For hanging the tool by attaching a rope.
Soft Start: Minimizes start-up shock for smooth tool initiation.
Saw Chain Installation/Removal: Requires releasing the chain brake, loosening the chain adjusting screw and retaining nut, and removing the sprocket cover. Ensure the saw chain direction matches the mark on the body.
Adjusting Saw Chain Tension: After installing the chain, lift the guide bar tip slightly and adjust the chain adjusting screw (clockwise to tighten, counterclockwise to loosen) until the lower side of the chain fits snugly in the guide bar rail.
Spike Bumper (Optional Accessory): Recommended for cutting thick branches. Install by aligning holes and tightening screws.
Working with the Chain Saw:
- First-time users should practice on logs on a saw-horse or cradle.
- Secure round pieces against rotation.
- Keep body parts away from the saw chain when operating.
- Hold the chain saw firmly with both hands.
- Do not overreach; maintain proper footing and balance.
- For pruning, bring the saw body into contact with the branch before switching on.
- For bucking, rest the saw body on the wood, saw into the wood using the top handle to raise and the front handle to guide.
- When cutting wood under tension, cut the pressured side first, then the tensioned side.
- Limbing should only be performed by trained persons. Support the chain saw on the trunk if possible.
Carrying Tool: Always apply the chain brake, remove battery cartridges, and attach the guide bar cover.

Maintenance Features

Periodic Maintenance: A schedule is provided for inspection and maintenance tasks, including daily, weekly, monthly, and annual checks, as well as before operation and storage.
Sharpening the Saw Chain:
- Sharpen when mealy sawdust is produced, chain penetrates with difficulty, cutting edge is damaged, or saw pulls to one side.
- Use a suitable round file (optional accessory) with a diameter of 4.5 mm (3/16") for 90PX chain blades.
- Maintain a sharpening angle of 30° and a depth gauge distance of 0.65 mm (0.025").
- Sharpen the shortest cutter first and use its length as the standard.
- Replace the chain when cutter length reaches 3 mm (1/8") or shorter.
Cleaning the Sprocket Cover: Remove the sprocket cover and saw chain, then clean chips and sawdust.
Cleaning the Guide Bar: Clean chips and sawdust from the guide bar groove every time the saw chain is sharpened or replaced to ensure proper oil flow.
Cleaning the Oil Discharge Hole: Remove the sprocket cover and saw chain. Use a slotted screwdriver to remove dust/particles. Insert the battery and pull the switch trigger to discharge chain oil and clear the hole.
Replacing the Sprocket: Check the sprocket condition before fitting a new saw chain. Replace worn sprockets and always use a new locking ring.
Storing the Tool: Clean the tool, lubricate the saw chain and guide bar by running under no load, cover the guide bar, and empty the oil tank.
General Maintenance: All repairs, maintenance, or adjustments not described in the manual should be performed by Makita Authorized or Factory Service Centers using genuine Makita replacement parts. Always wear gloves when performing inspection or maintenance.

Makita XCU05 Specifications

General

Type	Cordless Chainsaw
Power Source	Battery
Voltage	18V
Bar Length	12 inches
Motor	Brushless
Automatic Oiler	Yes
Battery Compatibility	Makita 18V LXT Lithium-Ion
Chain Gauge	0.043 inches
Chain Pitch	3/8 inches