terrasaw TS-400, Operator Owner'S Manual

CAUTION: UNDER NO CIRCUMSTANCES

 allow the digging chain to jam 

or bog to a standstill whilst holding throttle on as this will cause severe 

clutch damage. Refer also to powerhead manual.

1. 

Start the powerhead as per the manufacturers instruction manual. With a 

firm grip on the powerhead handles and a firm footing, start cutting trench 

with the Terrasaw blade at a comfortable angle (25 to 30 degrees from 

vertical), and slowly walk backwards along your desired line. In lighter soil 

types it may be necessary to do a final quick pass at the desired depth to 

clean out any remaining spoil.

2.  

Most chainsaw engines are designed to operate best and develop 

maximum power at near full throttle. The Terrasaw is designed for this and 

also operates well at high throttle settings, recommended when digging in 

difficult ground or at full depth. When trenching in confined or difficult areas 

however, particularly at shallow depths of 200mm or less, the use of very 

low throttle settings will provide extra safety and control.

3.  

When trenching freehand in particularly difficult soils the following technique 

is useful. Place the Terrasaw’s metal guard on the ground and use this as a 

‘pivot point’. Using a pushing down motion on the top handle and a pulling 

up motion on the rear handle of the power head, allow the Terrasaw to 

dig to the depth you require. Lift the Terrasaw up and back and repeat the 

above. This method requires a quick final pass to even the bottom of the 

trench!

4.  

If you strike solid obstacles such as rock, concrete, timber etc. remove 

these before continuing. The Terrasaw is designed to dig earth, not large 

stones or large tree roots!

5.  

For wider trenches, simply dig two parallel cuts to the desired width and 

remove the remaining centre section by hand. If accurate trench placement 

is important, consider marking your desired line with spray paint or similar. 

6. 

Regular checking/adjustment of chains will extend chain life! 

7. 

After digging, brush the loose dirt off of the digging chain, and inspect the 

digging teeth for any damage. See Maintenance, Cleaning and Storage 

page 11. 

8

Using Your Terrasaw

TM

 : Some Useful Tips