QA

Why Does My Chainsaw Chain Keep Loosening

Chain Not Set Properly One of the most common reasons why your chain might be coming loose is because it was not set properly. When you go through the steps to tension your chain, you need to finish those steps by setting the tension so it won’t change as you work your saw.

Why won’t my chain stay tight on my chainsaw?

Turn the tension control screw to the right to tighten the chain and to the left to loosen it. Attempting to turn the tension screw without loosening the nuts first may be the reason you can’t tighten the chain. Tighten the nuts back into place when you have the chain properly adjusted.

Why does my chainsaw chain keep stretching?

It’s perfectly normal for a chainsaw chain to stretch after regular use. The friction from cutting through wood makes the chain very hot and the heat causes it to loosen. The heat expands the guide bar and when it cools, the chain has stretched. The chain will also loosen as it wears down from use.

Should the chain on a chainsaw be tight?

The chainsaw chain should feel snug but still pull freely. Finally, perform a “snap” test to ensure proper saw chain tension. Simply pull the chain on the underside of the guide bar down so one or two drive links are out of the guide bar rails and release it.

How often should you replace your chainsaw chain?

When you own a chainsaw and see that it does not cut as well anymore you will have to decide whether to replace it or sharpen the chain. A chainsaw chain could serve you for more than five years if it is occasionally used, and still help you accomplish most of your tasks.

How much does a chainsaw chain stretch?

one eighth of a millimetre all round) then once you have pulled all of that clearance space to one side, your chain will be 17.5mm longer, that’s around three quarters of an inch.

Do chainsaw chains have a master link?

Locate the master link that most manufacturers install to make removal of the chain a simple process. A visual inspection of the chain will reveal the master link due to its appearance that makes it stand out slightly from the other links.

How much slack should a chainsaw have?

It should “give” about a 1/4 inch from the bar without much effort. Finally, while still holding up on the tip of the bar, tighten the bar nuts. Proper chainsaw chain tension is safer, it cuts better and it will extend the life of both your chainsaw and your chain.

Why does my chainsaw jump when cutting?

Improper Chain Tension Too much slack in your chain can cause the saw blades to jump the bar. This is commonly referred to as throwing the chain. Place a dime between the chain and bar, then increase the tension until the chain is snug against the dime. Remove the dime and you’re ready to cut.

How long should a chainsaw bar last?

Re: how long does a bar last The next, a Granberg, lasted about 2 months. About that time Stihl started using them with the same results. A good bar can be filed a few times on both sides and the tip replaced when needed. They could last almost as long as the saw.

What causes a chainsaw bar to bend?

A saw that has had one side of the chain nicked on a rock or dulled in the dirt will cut in a circle. A chain that has been sharpened differently on one side of the chain than the other will cut in a circle. A bent bar might cut crooked or straight, but, it will get hung up in the kerf.

Why is my chainsaw blade smoking?

This most commonly is a result of a dull chain and exerting to much pressure on the bar and chain trying to make the chain saw cut. This could also be either a lack of bar and chain oil ( tank empty, restricted oiler hole ) or an inferior type of oil that is being slung off the chain and not lubricating.

Is it worth sharpening a chainsaw chain?

Sharpening your chainsaw chain is definitely worth it as a sharp chainsaw chain is easier to work with. It takes less effort to cut through wood and your chain will make cleaner cuts with sharp blades. A chainsaw chain can be sharpened multiple times without much of a cost.

How many times can you sharpen a chainsaw?

Cutters can be sharpened up to 10 times or more before the chain needs replacing. If your cutters are worn unevenly after a few sharpenings, a professional can regrind them to uniform shape. If you use the same chain for a few years, then buy a new one, the new one won’t mesh smoothly with the sprocket and bar.

Can I lengthen a chainsaw chain?

Unfortunately, it is not possible to prevent your chainsaw chain from stretching. For this reason, it is always important to check your chain for tension before you use your chainsaw. You should check it every time you use it because it can be very dangerous if you run the chainsaw with a loose chain.

Can you flip a chainsaw bar?

Every chainsaw bar has been designed to be mounted right-side up or upside down. The reason for this is that it allows the user to extend the life of his chainsaw bar by 50%. Flipping the bar will give the heavily-used areas some relief from wear and tear. This reduces a chainsaw’s ability to cut accurately.