How To Replace A Chainsaw Chain
- Step 1: Open the Chainsaw First, you need to remove the old chain. To do this, you must open and remove the side panel.
- Step 2: Remove the Old Chain Now that the side panel is off, you will be able to see the inside guts of the machine. To...
- Step 3: Put the New Chain On
Full Answer
How do you know when to replace a chainsaw chain?
When to Replace Your Chainsaw Chain
- If You’ve Reached the “Safety Lines” on the Chain As mentioned above, there are small lines stamped into chainsaw cutter and guides, which indicate how far it can be ...
- If the chain gets broken, dented or chipped If you hit rocks, dirt, ice, etc., your chainsaw chain might have to be replaced. ...
- If your chain is rusty
How to shorten the chain on a chainsaw?
- Put the chain breaking tool in one line with this link, and, in addition to this, you have to line the push arm with the pine on one of the ...
- After you have taken away all the needed links, you should put the master link into the rivet tool. ...
- After all these manipulations your chain gets shortened enough and you can continue using it.
How to put a chain on a chainsaw properly?
Walkthrough:
- Open wing nut, remove cover for chain sprocket. ...
- Put the chain on the tire, starting from the top, the cutting tooth on the upper side should look straight ahead.
- Attach the assembled tire to the chainsaw, pull the structure onto the sprocket. ...
- Rotate the wing nut until the sprocket cover touches the engine housing.
How to put chain back on Worx chainsaw?
Replacing the Worx Chainsaw Chain
- First, you need to turn the lock on the chain so that it gets loose.
- Now, if your chain is already loosened, you just remove it gently by your hand.
- Take out the new chain that you wish to use and follow the same process of placing the chain and then turning the lock, but in the opposite direction.
Where can I get my chainsaw chain replaced?
0:563:24How to Replace a Chainsaw Chain - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipThis here is the clutch drum. And behind it the sprocket. I'll go ahead and just hold the bar awayMoreThis here is the clutch drum. And behind it the sprocket. I'll go ahead and just hold the bar away from the chain tensioner I'll release the tension on the chain. Now. I can simply remove that King.
How do you measure what size chain you need for a chainsaw?
0:182:38How to Measure a Chainsaw Chain - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipThe only correct way to get the proper length cane is to count the number of driver links on thatMoreThe only correct way to get the proper length cane is to count the number of driver links on that chain a quick tip when counting driver links on your chain is to align the chain.
Are replacement chainsaw chains universal?
No, chainsaw blades are not universal, not every bar and chain will fit on your machine. Chainsaw chains need to have the correct specification to fit on your bar. If you have a chain that is too long or too narrow it will not fit. Mixing brands of chains is no problem as long as they are compatible.
Can you replace a chainsaw chain with any brand?
Are chainsaw chains interchangeable? Several manufacturers produce chainsaw chains, and the different brands are not interchangeable with all models. If you replace your chain with another brand, you must know the exact gauge, length, and pitch of the old chain.
How do I know what chainsaw chain to buy?
When choosing a chainsaw chain, you first need to know the pitch, the gauge and the number of drive links. Once you have these, everything else about the choice is basically about what you prefer. Pitch is the average distance between two rivets on the saw chain.
How do I know my chain size?
To measure the chain size, if you have just the sprocket, use calipers to measure between the teeth. Measure from center to center of where the chain roller would set between the teeth that will give you the pitch. Once you know the pitch you can determine what chain size you would need.
Is it better to sharpen or replace a chainsaw chain?
Sharpen before replacing In general maintenance of a chainsaw is important because it can help prolong the lifespan of the different parts of your machine, as well as the machine itself. If your chainsaw chain becomes dull after a long lifespan, it will struggle to cut through the wood at the efficiency it once had.
What is the most common chainsaw chain?
3/8"Most consumer saws use a type of 3/8" chain called "low profile". We call it Picco. A few older saws use 1/2" pitch chain.
Can I use a Husqvarna chain on a Stihl?
But if the pitch, gauge, and drive link count are the same, you can run any brand of chain, just like you can mount any brand of tire on your car if the numbers on the sidewalls are the same. Sometimes a one drive link difference can be taken up with the tension adjuster.
What is the fastest cutting chainsaw chain?
The fastest cutting chainsaw chain is either a full chisel or a chisel skip chain. The full chisel offers the fastest and most aggressive cutting action for chainsaw bars that are 24” or less. For bars that are longer than 24”, choose a chisel skip chain.
Does gauge matter on chainsaw chain?
The gauge measurement of a saw chain tells a pro user about the strength of a chain's drive links. Thicker drive links are usually stronger, but they are heavier. Weight affects performance, and to maximize cutting speed, weight should be kept to a minimum.
What chainsaw chains do professional loggers use?
Semi-chisel teeth are rounded, so the risk of kickback is less, and they stay sharper longer. Semi-chisel teeth cut slower but are a better choice in dirty wood than full chisel. Semi-chisel teeth chains are a good option for home users and are the preferred choice of professional woodcutters.
How to Replace a Chainsaw Chain – Step by Step Guide
Before you start your chainsaw chain replacement, you must ensure you have all the necessary tools and materials. These will usually include:
Frequently Asked Questions
You will need to replace the chainsaw chain every so often, and sometimes even sooner than that depending on how often you use it. A worn-out chainsaw chain will not cut efficiently and it can begin to make your saw harder to use. You should replace your chainsaw chain if it’s worn, has a lot of rust on it, or won’t spin well.
Conclusion
Now that you have all this equipment and know, how to put a chain on a chainsaw. The only thing left for you to do is take action. We hope that after reading this in-depth guide you feel 100% confident to go out and replace your chain. Your chainsaw will thank you for it!
How to tell if chainsaw chain needs replacement?
Another way to know your chainsaw chain needs replacement and not just the regular sharpening is if there are missing or uneven teeth. Most of the time, this happens if the chainsaw hits an embedded nail or a rock, and sometimes you might not notice the damage until it is too late. Missing and uneven teeth lead to uneven cuts that affect your work.
Why is my chainsaw chain loose?
The straps become loose, which makes it hard for the teeth to stay connected to the bar. Having a loose chain is dangerous. There are chances of kickback scenarios or snaps, which could lead to injuries. In case you are straining to tighten a chainsaw chain, then replacing it would be a better option to avoid further problems.
What is a chainsaw?
Chainsaws are handy homestead tools that allow you to saw large lumbers of hardwood with considerable ease. Not only are they more productive than a manual saw, but their smooth cutting operation...
How to know what size chain to buy?
The best way to know the right size of the chain is to look at the pitch, the pitch refers to the chain size. Measure the distance between the three rivets and divide them by two. Also, the seller can help you to get the right chain.
What does it mean when a chainsaw is not working?
Chainsaws are designed in such a way that you do not have to force it into the wood continuously. However, if you find yourself having to do so, it means that it is no longer effective. Your chainsaw is trying to let you know that it needs a new chain so that you can carry out your job effortlessly.
Why is my chainsaw hard to cut through wood?
If your chainsaw chain finds it hard to slice through wood, you need to take serious action. This involves replacing the chainsaw chain so that you can cut through wood easily. You should pay attention to how the chainsaw chain feels as you cut through the wood so that any underlying problem is noticed and fixed.
What does smoke mean on a chainsaw?
Smoke is an indicator that your chainsaw is not operating as it ought to and could be wearing against the wood instead of cutting. You will see fine dust instead of chips, this is an indicator that the cut is not as perfect as you want.
How to tell when chainsaw chain needs replacing?
How to tell when your chainsaw chain needs replacing. Chainsaws are incredibly powerful machines , which makes them very effective at the job they are designed to do. As the saying goes however, “with great power comes great responsibility” and if your chainsaw isn’t properly maintained it can be very dangerous to the operator.
Why is it important to sharpen a chainsaw?
In general maintenance of a chainsaw is important because it can help prolong the lifespan of the different parts of your machine, as well as the machine itself. If your chainsaw chain becomes dull after a long lifespan, it will struggle to cut through the wood at the efficiency it once had.
Why is my chainsaw crooked?
The chainsaw pulls in one direction, which results in a crooked finish. Blunt cutting teeth on one side or uneven teeth lengths usually cause this. The teeth has hit rocks or dirt and broken. If you notice the tops of the teeth are missing you will need to replace the chain.
What does chain do to sawdust?
The chain creates finer sawdust rather than rough threads; it appears you are more sanding than cutting.
What is chain on a chainsaw?
The chain is the business end of a chain saw, the portion of the saw that does the actual cutting. To perform its job safely and reliably, the chain must fit the saw without being too slack, and without too much tension. To ensure the proper fit, you need to know several measurements and chainsaw terms when looking for a replacement chain.
What is the average chain size for a chainsaw?
Chainsaws are sold in even-numbered lengths that range from 10 to 42 inches, but the most common sizes are 16 to 20 inches. While you can grab a replacement chain based on the bar size alone, it may not fit your saw exactly without consideration of a few more measurements.
How does a chainsaw work?
The chainsaw motor powers a drive cog, and the cog imparts motion to the chain as drive lugs on the chain pass over the cog. These lugs, which are sometimes called drive links, also provide a means of determining the chain length. With the chainsaw off and its spark plug disconnected, you can lift the chain away from the bar and see the lugs on ...
How to determine chain length?
Rivets hold the chain’s links together, and their heads are visible along the side of the chain. You must measure the rivets from the center of one head to the center of the third one, then divide that measurement by two in order to arrive at the pitch . The number of drive lugs plus the pitch calculation are what manufacturers use to describe chain length.
What measurements do you need to know for a chainsaw?
Those measurements -- bar length, the number of lugs, pitch and gauge -- are part of a replacement chain’s packaging label.
What is the bar length of a chainsaw?
The bar length typically describes the chainsaw. For example, an 18-inch chainsaw has an 18-inch bar . This isn’t a measurement of the full bar, just the portion from its tip to the point where the bar meets the chainsaw case. Chainsaws are sold in even-numbered lengths that range from 10 to 42 inches, but the most common sizes are 16 to 20 inches. While you can grab a replacement chain based on the bar size alone, it may not fit your saw exactly without consideration of a few more measurements.
Where do you measure rivets on a chain?
You must measure the rivets from the center of one head to the center of the third one , then divide that measurement by two in order to arrive at the pitch.
How many hours can you use a chainsaw chain?
Under normal circumstances, you should be able to get hundreds of hours of use out a single chainsaw chain. That might sound surprising, but think about it. The cutters on a chainsaw chain are fundamentally steel blades, kind of like a knife.
How to cut through a log with chainsaw?
You should try to avoid hitting the ground with your chainsaw blade, but sometimes it just happens. 2. Hitting a nail. Sometimes the wood will have unexpected metal objects embedded inside.
What happens if you sharpen a chainsaw past the lines?
If you sharpen a chain past those lines, you risk the chain falling apart, or even flying off the chain while you’re using it.
How to sharpen a chain with a file guide?
When to sharpen with a file guide: a good rule of thumb, is to give your chain a 1-2 swipes with the file guide every time you fuel up. If it’s getting noticeably dull, then you may have to do a couple extra swipes (around 4) to get it sharp again. To tell if your chain is sharp, do one of these two tests to find out. 2.
What does the line on a chainsaw chain mean?
These small lines indicate the maximum amount of metal that can be removed. Once you reach that line on the chain links, it is not safe to sharpen and use your chain again. If you’d like to learn more about the different parts of a chainsaw chain, you can check-out this post.
What happens if you don't clean your chainsaw?
If you don’t clean and oil your chain properly, it can easily get rusted, which is a fast way for a chain to be ruined. To avoid this, clean the bar and chain, oil it, and cover the bar/chain with a scabbard before storing. For more info on cleaning your chainsaw, see this post .
Why do you need bar and chain oil?
You’ve got to use bar and chain oil to keep your chain cool (e.g. not overheated) and running smoothly . Not using proper lubrication is a fast way to overheat your whole chainsaw. To learn more about bar and chain oil, check out this post.
Where are the numbers on a chainsaw chain?
Fortunately, these numbers are often easily located on the side of the chainsaw bar.
How to count drive links on a chainsaw?
Drive links are the triangular extensions on the underside of the chain that keep it attached to the bar. Use a wrench to remove the guide bar side panel, then use a screwdriver to release the tension on the chain. Pop the chain off the bar in order to count the drive links.
What is the chainsaw bar called?
You may also see the chainsaw bar referred to as the chainsaw blade. These are the same thing.
How long is a chainsaw bar?
For example, the standard length of light-duty chainsaws is 10 to 14 inches (25 to 36 cm), while the typical bar length of heavy-duty chainsaws is 14 to 18 inches (36 to 46 cm). You may also see the chainsaw bar referred to as the chainsaw blade.
How to measure chainsaw pitch?
For example, if the distance between 3 consecutive rivets on your chainsaw chain is 1 inch (2.5 cm), then the pitch would be this measurement divided by 2, or 1⁄2 inch (1.3 cm).
What does 72DL mean on a chainsaw?
For example, if your bar contains the phrase “72DL” on the side, this means your chainsaw has 72 drive links.
How to find the pitch of a chain?
Gauge the length between any 3 rivets and divide by 2 to find the pitch. Rivets are the small, round pegs that hold the different segments of the chain together. Use your tape measure to find the distance between 3 consecutive rivets. This distance divided by 2 is equal to the distance between individual drive links in the chain itself.
How to remove chainsaw chain?
Remove the guide bar side panel. The side plate on most chainsaws will most likely be held on by two nuts. Using a scwrench or wrench, unscrew the nuts and remove the plate to access the chain.
How long does it take to replace a chain?
Even though the steps for a chain replacement are simple and can take less than five minutes, it's important to point out a few repair details that can make all the difference between a chain that's installed correctly and an incorrectly installed chain.
How to put tension on chainsaw?
With the chain properly threaded along the clutch drum and guide bar, put some tension into it by pulling on the nose of the guide bar away from the chainsaw.
Where is the brake on a chainsaw?
A chainsaw's brake is sometimes attached to the guide bar side plate, like the chainsaw in our example. If your chainsaw's brake is attached to its side plate, make sure to unlock the brake before removing sprocket the plate.
Can you remove chain from guide bar?
The chain will easily remove from the guide bar with all that slack in it.
