How do I know if my chainsaw needs a new chain?
The signs that it's time for chainsaw chain replacement#1 – Difficulty with positioning. ... #2 – The chainsaw no longer pulls itself into the wood. ... #3 – Smoking, even when lubrication is good and chain tension is correct. ... #4 – Crooked cuts. ... #5 – Missing or damaged teeth. ... In Conclusion.
How do I know if my chainsaw chain is dull?
When cross cutting (against the grain of the wood) a dull chainsaw chain creates fine sawdust instead of coarse strands. The saw is producing smoke even when your chain is oiled and the chain tension is correct. The chainsaw produces an uneven cut. This could mean that your chain has dull cutting teeth on one side.
How often should you replace a chain on a chainsaw?
The lifetime of a chainsaw chain has no fixed limit and depends on usage and maintenance. The chain should last many years; 5-6 years should be no problem. However, if the chainsaw chain is used properly and taken care of, it can last way longer.
When should I retire my chainsaw chain?
When to Replace a Chainsaw ChainTeeth are broken or worn unevenly.Issues with Chain Tension.Smoke is present when cutting.Sawdust, rather than coarse chips are left behind.Chainsaw feels unbalanced, cuts unevenly, or rattles when in use.
Is it worth it to sharpen 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.
What dulls a chainsaw chain?
Dirt Causes A Chainsaw To Dull Cutting through wood that's dirty can sometimes dull a chainsaw and there's two factors attributed to dirt.
How long do chainsaw chains stay sharp?
On average, a chainsaw blade will retain its sharpness for about 3 hours of actively cutting through wood.
How long does a Stihl chain last?
How Long Do Stihl Chainsaws Last? Information we found online suggests that Stihl Pro Chainsaws have a run time of about 2,000 hours. That means the saw would last you for a minimum of 5.5 years before dying. Keep in mind this time is rated for professional chainsaws and not for regular homeowner saws.
How do I know if my chainsaw chain is sharp?
0:020:41How To Immediately Tell If Your Chain Is Sharp Enough - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipThese. We have some nice long chips here. And when it starts to turn into sawdust. That's when youMoreThese. We have some nice long chips here. And when it starts to turn into sawdust. That's when you know you need to resharpen your chain.
What is the best chainsaw chain?
BEST OVERALL: Husqvarna Chainsaw Chain 16″ .050 Gauge.RUNNER UP: Oregon R40 AdvanceCut 10-Inch Chainsaw Chain.BEST BANG FOR THE BUCK: Oregon S33 AdvanceCut 8-Inch Chainsaw Chain.BEST FULL CHISEL: Forester Chainsaw Chain Loop, 24″ Full Chisel.BEST SEMI CHISEL: Oregon S39 AdvanceCut 10-Inch Semi-Chisel Chain.More items...•
How do you know if your chainsaw sprocket is worn out?
Look closely at the teeth of the sprocket for signs of a groove or notches. The teeth are supposed to be smooth and consistent. If you noticed that there is a groove worn in the teeth and the chain will not rotate consistently smooth, it's time to replace the sprocket.
Should I sharpen or replace chainsaw blade?
Sharpen before replacing If your chainsaw chain becomes dull after a long lifespan, it will struggle to cut through the wood at the efficiency it once had. This is why, where possible, you should be looking to keep the will be chain sharp, as sharpening a better course of action than sourcing a replacement.
How do I know if my chainsaw chain is blunt?
When looking at the chain itself if you can see a line of light on the cutting edge, the chain is blunt (see below). The teeth on a chain are chrome plated; the thin hard chrome edge of the chain does all the work.
How often does a chainsaw chain need to be sharpened?
In most cases, sharpening the chain should happen after ten times of being in use, while in other situations, you have to sharpen it after every session.
How do I know if my chainsaw chain is sharp?
0:020:41How To Immediately Tell If Your Chain Is Sharp Enough - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipThese. We have some nice long chips here. And when it starts to turn into sawdust. That's when youMoreThese. We have some nice long chips here. And when it starts to turn into sawdust. That's when you know you need to resharpen your chain.
Will wet wood dull a chainsaw?
No, it is not bad to cut the wet wood with your chainsaw. Dewdrops, raindrops, or the snow on the wood will not cause any harm to your chainsaw. It is, in fact, much easier to cut through the wet wood than dry wood because the extra moisture on the wood will act as a natural lubricant.
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.
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.
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 .
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.
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.
How does a chain sharpener reduce the life of a chain?
It reduces the life of your chain by taking off more material ( vs. a manual sharpening)
The problems of chainsaw maintenance
For the most part, your chainsaw will probably work as you expect it to, ready to jump into action any time you require its assistance. However, this will only be the case if you take the time to ensure proper maintenance. One of the most important aspects of chainsaw maintenance is sharpening.
How long does a chainsaw chain last?
The chainsaw chain life expectancy varies from user to user, as this depends on a number of factors, such as:
What is the job of a chainsaw?
Chainsaws can be finicky pieces of equipment. If you think about it, this makes some sense. After all, its job revolves around spinning a barbed chain at a high enough velocity to rip and shred apart wood. Between gas, oil, tension, and general wear and tear, your chainsaw is bound to need a fair amount of TLC.
Why does my chain saw smoke when cutting?
If you happen to see smoke when cutting, despite the fact that you know your oiler is working and your tension is correct, you probably have some sharpness issues. When cutting, if your chainsaw runs in one direction, you might need to think about replacing your chainsaw blade. This is an indication that your cutting teeth have dulled on one side ...
Do chainsaws need TLC?
Between gas, oil, tension, and general wear and tear, your chainsaw is bound to need a fair amount of TLC. Of special importance, in this regard, is the business end of your chainsaw, the chain. It can dull out pretty quickly, and a dull chain is an ineffective and dangerous chain. So, most Pros will sharpen their chains pretty regularly.
Does a dull chain pull itself into wood?
Does your chain pull itself into the wood, or do you need to force it? A dull chain will won’t eat into what you need to cut as well, which will force you into applying pressure . This can cause undue stress on the engine and bar, as well as further dulling out your chain.
Is it expensive to replace a chainsaw chain?
They generally aren’t crazy expensive, and your chainsaw will cut much more effectively. Speaking of the relatively low cost of chainsaw chains, some folks even skip out on sharpening altogether, opting instead for replacing a chainsaw chain as it gets dull.
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 if chainsaw chain is worn out?
In other cases, you will find yourself pressing the chainsaw chain hard against the wood for it to cut. In other instances, you will also have uneven and crooked cuts, and these are all indications of a worn-out chainsaw chain. Sharpening your chainsaw chain might be an ideal solution; however, it will only work for a while before you consider replacing it.
Why is chainsaw maintenance important?
A chainsaw requires timely maintenance to make sure its performance stays up to the mark. Poorly maintained chainsaws can encounter numerous issues during operation. Some of them can lead to costly...
Why is it important to have a chainsaw chain?
The right chainsaw chain will help you achieve your logging endeavors and finish the tasks on time. Some chainsaw chains are more durable than others, which is something you should know to help you determine the right chainsaw chains to invest in at any time. Every single time you use your chainsaw chain, the sharpness reduces, and you are expected to sharpen it often. Proper maintenance and oiling keeps it functional and makes it easy to identify when there are issues. However, with time, you will be required to replace it since it consistently wears out.
Why does my chain saw smoke?
Therefore, if you notice that there is more smoke than usual, it is proof that something should be fixed. In most cases, the smoke is a result of dull teeth that might be causing a lot of heat buildup through excessive friction. It is not only harmful to your performance but also damages your chainsaw chain.
Why does my chainsaw bounce back?
If not, you end up cutting too deep into one side, which shows that your chainsaw is worn out and needs to be sharpened or replaced depending on how long you’ve had it. If the chainsaw bounces back to you, that is an indication that there is a problem with some of its parts. You must look forward to fixing it if you want to finish the tasks efficiently.
What is a chainsaw?
A chainsaw is one of those power tools that homesteaders should own as it helps you carry out different tasks, including pruning or cutting trees and logs at a fast rate. You should make sure that you do not only have a powerful tool but also a sharp one. It does not matter if you’re cutting trees or logs, using a dull chainsaw chain could cause severe accidents and damages to you and your machine.
Why do you need to clean air filters on a chainsaw?
Make sure that the air filters are clean because it is the best way to improve its performance and keep the chainsaw running for a long time.
When should I replace my chainsaw bar?
The two most important things that affect the quality of cut on a chainsaw are the chain and the guide bar. The chain and guide bar are under constant load and will eventually need to be replaced no matter how well you maintain your chainsaw. This post will cover when should you replace the guide bar on your chainsaw from wear and tear and not from accidental damage.
How long does a chainsaw guide bar last?
A chainsaw guide bar will last for years as long as the chainsaw is oiling properly , the chain is in good condition and the sprocket on the chainsaw is in proper condition.
What is channel wear?
Channel Wear. Channel wear is another type of wear that can happen over time. This wear is caused by friction of the chain as it travels around the bar. The only way to slow this type of wear is to make sure your saws oiler is functioning correctly, the oiler hole on the bar is clean and the channel itself is clean.
Do nose bars slow down chainsaws?
Keep in mind that hard nose bars will slow down the chainsaw somewhat when compared to sprocket tip bars. There are trade-offs to using each bar. It is up to you to decide what’s important to you, speed or durability. Often people will install a new chain when they notice their chainsaw is not cutting properly.
Can you replace a chainsaw bar with a sprocket?
Sprocket failure is the most common failure of this type of bar. If you have a replaceable tip sprocket bar you can simply replace the tip of the bar. In my experience, unless you provide the labor to replace the tip yourself, I would recommend just purchasing a new bar. By the time you pay for labor and parts, it may be cost-effective to replace the chainsaw bar.
Can chainsaw bars be replaced?
If worn chainsaw bars are not replaced when they should be, they can destroy a new chain or possibly a clutch. Replacing the chainsaw bar can save you a lot of time and money in the long run. When in doubt, swap it out. In an upcoming post, I will be discussing when you should replace your chainsaw chain.
Can you replace a sprocket bar?
Sprocket failure is the most common failure of this type of bar. If you have a replaceable tip sprocket bar you can simply replace the tip of the bar. In my experience, unless you provide the labor to replace the tip yourself, I would recommend just purchasing a new bar. By the time you pay for labor and parts, ...
How to tell if chainsaw bar needs replacing?
A chainsaw’s bar should be replaced any time you notice any visible signs of wear. Specifically, the formation of a burr, or a fold-like deformation on the bar’s cutting edge, is a classic indication that a replacement is necessary. In addition to burrs, several other indicators can let you know that the bar needs to be replaced.
What to do if chainsaw doesn't turn freely?
If it does not turn freely, the bar is damaged and needs to be replaced .
How to keep chainsaw blades from getting hot?
Take Breaks. Even with a properly oiled chain and bar, some friction will occur, causing your blade to get very hot. Therefore, to prevent the heat from building up to a level that can lead to temperatures that will degrade the bar, give your chainsaw some small breaks every few minutes to allow the bar to cool.
Why is my chainsaw bar splintering?
In addition, poorly cleaned bars and the buildup of debris can expedite and/or instigate the splintering of your chainsaw’s bar.
Why is my saw burning?
Burning. Burning is caused due to too much friction, caused by an improperly oiled chain or repeated attempts to saw through materials that are too tough for a specific saw. Burning is characterized by heavy black smudging on the bar’s surface.
Why does my chain sag?
While chains sag most likely because of a chain that is improperly installed or worn out, there is a chance that the chain is not fitting correctly due to the bar shrinking or becoming deformed to the point that even new chains cannot fit securely .
What to do if your chainsaw hits something hard?
With that said, my final tip is this: If you ever notice your chainsaw hitting anything hard, beginning to smoke, or having any difficulty continuing its path, stop the cut before you bend the bar and damage your chainsaw.
How much does it cost to replace a chainsaw rim?
Replacement rims typically cost around $7 while a whole Rim Sprocket System costs around $30. Properly maintaining your chainsaw will save you a ton of time and money down the line. Make your future self-happy and take care of your equipment today. Have a great day and be safe out there!
What are the different types of chainsaw sprockets?
There are two primary types of sprockets that are used on chainsaws. The first and most common sprocket type is known as a spur sprocket. The second and less common type is known as a rim sprocket system . These sprockets look completely different, but they function and wear essentially the same.
How much does it cost to replace a rim sprocket?
Simply buy a new rim and install on the old clutch bell housing and you’re ready to go. Replacement rims typically cost around $7 while a whole Rim Sprocket System costs around $30.
Do chainsaws need to be tuned?
Chainsaws are not unlike other pieces of equipment in that they will need to be maintained every now and then. Over time chainsaws may gradually lose power and cutting efficiency and need to be tuned...
