Owner’s manual
How thick of a tree can an electric chainsaw cut?
For the Craftsman 172452470 electric chainsaw, the thickest tree you can safely cut is smaller in diameter than the guide bar length; in practice, we plan on cutting wood up to about 2 inches less than the bar length to reduce binding and kickback risk. Confirm your exact guide bar length in the owner's manual.
Practical cutting guideline (what to expect)
- Best results: branches and logs clearly smaller than the bar length
- Typical rule of thumb: bar length minus about 2 inches for easier, safer cutting
- Harder cuts happen when: the kerf closes and pinches the chain (binding), or the bar nose contacts wood (kickback zone)
- Do not force the saw: let the chain do the work; forcing increases heat and stalling
- Avoid wet wood: we use the saw only when wood is dry for better control and cutting speed
Quick reference table
| Guide bar length | Comfortable max diameter | Absolute max for felling |
|---|---|---|
| 10 in. | ~8 in. | <10 in. |
| 12 in. | ~10 in. | <12 in. |
| 14 in. | ~12 in. | <14 in. |
| 16 in. | ~14 in. | <16 in. |
Why it matters (safety and performance)
Your manual notes the chainsaw can only be used to fell trees smaller in diameter than the length of the guide bar. Cutting near the saw’s limit increases the chance of pinch kickback, chain binding, and loss of control.
Safer technique when cutting near the limit
- Plan your stance and keep secure footing before starting the cut
- Keep the chain from contacting anything while starting the saw
- For logs supported on both ends: cut about 1/3 from the top, then finish from the bottom to reduce ground contact and binding
- Never cut one-handed; use two hands for control
- Do not cut from a ladder or in a tree
Parts and maintenance help
If you need a replacement chain, guide bar, sprocket, or oiling-related parts for model 172452470, we recommend starting with the model parts list, then using Sears PartsDirect to search by model number.
Last updated: February 2026
How to look up chainsaw serial number?
For your Craftsman electric chainsaw model 172452470, the model number is on the nameplate; for a serial number, check the motor housing area for a stamped or printed label. Use the number exactly as shown when looking up parts or service details in the 172452470 owner's manual or when searching on Sears PartsDirect.
Where to find the number on a chainsaw
On most chainsaws, the identifying label is placed where it stays protected but readable. Check these common spots first:
- Nameplate label on the saw body (often near the handle or motor housing)
- Flat area of the motor housing
- Near the power cord entry point (corded electric models)
- Under the side cover area (with the saw unplugged and cooled)
- On a sticker near the oil tank cap or oil level gauge area
How to “look up” the serial number (what to do with it)
Once you find the serial number, use it to match the correct production run and documentation.
- Write it down exactly (include letters, dashes, and leading zeros)
- Take a clear photo for reference
- Keep it with your purchase paperwork and maintenance notes
- Use the model number (172452470) for parts diagrams; use the serial number to confirm manufacturing details when needed
Model number vs. serial number (quick guide)
| Item | What it identifies | Typical use |
|---|---|---|
| Model number | The product design and parts breakdown | Finding diagrams and replacement parts |
| Serial number | Your specific unit | Verifying production run and service history |
Why it matters
Chainsaws can have small running changes over time (chain/bar setup, covers, switches, oiling components). Having the correct model and serial information helps ensure you match the right documentation and avoid ordering the wrong replacement part.
Last updated: February 2026
What model number is the Craftsman 172452470 chainsaw?
The model number for this Craftsman electric chainsaw is 172.452470 (often written without the dot as 172452470). You’ll find it printed on the chainsaw’s nameplate; use that exact number when looking up parts and specifications in the owner's manual or when searching on Sears PartsDirect.
Where to find the model number on the saw
Most Craftsman chainsaws place the nameplate on the housing where it stays readable during normal use. Check these common spots:
- On the main motor housing near the rear handle
- On the underside of the body near the oil tank area
- Near the chain cover or bar mount area
- On a label close to the power cord entry point (corded models)
How the model number may appear
You may see the same model shown in slightly different formats. These are equivalent:
| Format you see | What it means |
|---|---|
| 172.452470 | Standard Craftsman printed format |
| 172452470 | Same model number without punctuation |
Why it matters
Using the exact model number helps us match the correct parts list and specs for your specific chainsaw, including key details like bar length, chain pitch, chain gauge, and the number of drive links.
Quick specs you can confirm for model 172.452470
From the model documentation, this chainsaw is commonly identified as:
- 120V, 60Hz electric chainsaw
- 14A motor
- 16-inch bar
- 3/8-inch chain pitch
Last updated: February 2026
