Tanaka Chainsaw Review [Model: TCS33EDTP/14]
The Tanaka TCS33EDTP/14 Chainsaw Review
SUMMARY
The Tanaka TCS33EDTP is a top handle chainsaw, available in either 12-inch or 14-inch bar and chain. Built with a commercial grade 2-stroke 32.2-cc Pure Fire engine, this chainsaw is able to deliver powerful performance with less fuel consumption and hence reducing the emission level to the environment.
The throttle is designed on top of the tool instead of the usual rear-positioned. As this provides more maneuverability when you are up in a tree, this power tool is highly recommended for arborists. The Tanaka is relatively lightweight at only 12.4 lbs, suitable to be used for long hours without stress.
The chainsaw is easy to operate thanks to the automatic gear-powered oiler. It also features a half throttle choke with purge primer bulb that helps the machine to warm up faster, able to start quickly just on the first pull.
In addition, the sprocket nose bar with Oregon chain provides added control to make cuttings easier. With the inertia activated chain brake, it eliminates the chance of kickback. The designed side access chain tensioning provides more convenience and easy access for quick adjustments.
It comes with an ergonomic cushioned handle with vibration dampeners to reduce vibration levels, and built with a lanyard ring for easy climbing. In short, the Tanaka TCS33EDTP is sturdy and powerful, highly recommended for someone who is looking to handle professional heavy-duty tree projects.
What Makes This Chainsaw Stands Out?
SPECIFICATIONS
Cylinder Displacement: 2-stroke 32.2-cc Pure Fire engine featuring 2 piston rings
Power Output: 1.6 hp
Bar & Chain Length: 14-inch
Fuel Tank Capacity: 9.8 oz
Manufacturer of Chain: Oregon
Weight: 12.4 lbs
The Manufacturer
Naturally, when you are deciding on a new purchase, you want to go with a reputable brand.
The Tanaka company has a long history, as it was founded back in 1918. Ever since, it has maintained a steady line of developing its range, not least with the latest PureFire engine featured on this chainsaw.
In 2007, Tanaka became part of the Hitachi company. It delivers on its promises, namely providing a versatile professional power tool for a very reasonable price. Other brands can be found here.
Last but not least, the manual that comes with the Tanaka TCS33EDTP contains very useful information by the manufacturer.
Besides detailed instructions on how to operate your chainsaw, it concerns safety and maintenance.
Therefore, as always, we advise you to read and follow it carefully.
Features Of The Tanaka TCS33EDTP/14
1) Engine
The TCS33EDTP/14 comes with Tanaka's trademarked 32.2cc two-stroke PureFire engine.
With its design, the manufacturer strives to achieve lower emission rates and comply with current standards.
Despite this being a gas-powered chainsaw (which usually means higher emission rates), Tanaka has accomplished its goal.
Perhaps more importantly, they have managed to do so without compromising the power of this unit.
Namely, the chainsaw is able to produce 1.6 horsepower, which translates to a 23 m/sec chain speed.
All in all, this is a rather impressive feat for a compact and light model such as this one.
The engine can achieve 12,000 rpm as its maximum speed while consuming fuel at a rate of 534 g/kWh.
With the fuel tank capacity as we have described it in our Specifications section, this means that one full tank provides some 20 minutes of cutting action.
Finally and most importantly, unlike some gas chainsaws, this model starts quickly and reliably.
The well-balanced overall construction and its half throttle choke are some of the features that help achieve this.
Also, the purge primer bulb helps the saw start and warm up fast.
Speaking of the engine, it is worth noting that gas-powered chainsaws do come with a downside. Namely, as a rule, they can produce a significant level of noise when compared to electric chainsaws.
Depending on your particular circumstances, this is something that can be only a minor hassle. However, in some cases, it could also be a deal-breaker.
It is up to you to decide, of course. Using ear protection when operating the saw is most welcome and advised by the manufacturer.
2) Bar and Chain
This specific model comes with a 14" Oregon sprocket bar and chain. The sprocket system ensures that with this unit, you get more control and better cutting action.
In terms of maintenance, this also means that you will have to occasionally grease the tip of the bar.
The relatively short bar is designed so as to match the size of the engine. Thus, it accounts for the entire unit's stability and well-balanced construction.
One could argue that the shorter bar makes this chainsaw appropriate for smaller cuts rather than larger chunks of wood or even whole logs.
However, this is not necessarily the case as the unit is capable of felling trees, as well.
As for the chain, it is an Oregon Low Profile chain with low kickback and standard 52 drive links.
Its speed of up to 23 m/sec is a superb performance for a relatively lightweight chainsaw.
Before putting it to use, you should properly tension the chain. Using the scrench tool that comes with your unit, you will adjust the side screw on the chainsaw.
The operating manual details the exact procedure. If you follow it carefully, you won't have to worry about whether you got it just right.
And lastly, bear in mind that a 12" bar model from Tanaka is also available. Accordingly, it is cheaper and worth checking out if you need a smaller chainsaw.
Editor's note: In a nutshell, a light and relatively small chainsaw. But with enough power to handle all your needs. A commercial-grade engine in a user-friendly package.
3) Design, Construction Quality, and Ease of Use
The TCS33EDTP/14 features a solid and reliable construction, with aluminum and solid plastic as the predominantly used materials.
With much attention to detail, the manufacturer emphasizes its anti-vibration system. Its purpose?
Making your experience with this saw an easy and enjoyable one.
That is particularly important during long periods of use or professional application.
In those cases, you want your power tool to be of help, rather than a burden.
As we have mentioned in our Overview section, this is a top handle chainsaw. With such a design, it gives you more control when preparing and positioning for a cut.
Thus, the large and ergonomic top handle is conveniently placed and offers the necessary stability.
The lockout button and throttle trigger are located on the handle. The front handle contains a practical hand guard which also doubles as a chain brake.
On the whole, we have found it comfortable and easy to navigate and operate this Tanaka chainsaw.
Another feature that will help you achieve a stable position while using the saw is the addition of metal bumper spikes.
Moreover, several other features and design solutions illustrate the practicality of this saw.
For example, the procedure of refilling it with oil, i.e. gas is very effortless, as both tank caps are close to one another.
A muffler which lowers the engine noise level is located on the right-hand side of the unit.
In addition, you will find a chain catcher on the lower side of the saw. As its name suggests, it will hold back the chain if it should ever fail.
4. Accessories and Safety
With the purchase of this model, you will also get a protective cover for the saw's bar and chain.
Acting as a protective transportation measure, it is mainly a safety precaution preventing any possible injury.
Thus, it is a very welcome addition by Tanaka. Especially since not all companies offer this as a free accessory.
The other free accessory with your unit is the scrench tool which, as we've mentioned, will come in handy when you’re fitting and adjusting the bar and chain.
5. Warranty
For this model, Tanaka offers a 7-year warranty. In case of commercial use, the warranty is limited to 2 years, and for rental purposes - 1 year.
So, if you are a homeowner looking to purchase a chainsaw for personal use, the 7-year warranty is a major plus.
6. Even More Features
Other Related Chainsaw Reviews:-
The Pros and Cons
PROS
CONS
Final Verdict
Tanaka TCS33EDTP/14 Chainsaw
We hope that our comprehensive Tanaka chainsaw review has been helpful to making your decision.
Our take? It all comes down to your needs and requirements. But if an affordable, compact, powerful and easy-to-use chainsaw is what you are looking for, we recommend you to give this model a try.
Its engine and design makes it suitable for both the hobbyist as well as the professional user. That is the main advantage of this model.
Its versatility is unmatched even by much pricier models on the market. And, in the case of the Tanaka, the versatility comes at less than $350.
For all of those reasons, and despite some minor flaws, we rate this model 4.8/5.
What we Liked:
What we Disliked:
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