Chainsaw Maintenance – A Guide On How To Do It Right

There are various perils involved when one is learning how to cut down a tree with a faulty chainsaw. When you see signs of damage in your equipment, you have to have it fixed right away. But do you know that you could avoid causing serious damage in your chainsaw if you follow regular maintenance routine?

Before, I didn’t consistently check my chainsaw, and I paid for it by having it fixed regularly. In just a year, I needed to replace my chainsaw because no amount of fixing could restore it back to its original condition. Chainsaw maintenance allows you to prevent this from happening.

So how can you keep your chainsaw in good condition?

Before we proceed to the tips that are necessary in maintaining your chainsaw, let’s prepare the necessary chainsaw maintenance tools first:

You need a round file to sharpen the teeth of your chainsaw. Usually, most chains will specify the size of file that you can use. So, it’s best that you read the manual or ask the manufacturer about this detail.

Before you start operating with your chainsaw, you need to secure it in a clamp-on vice. This will keep the chainsaw in its place and avoid any potential danger.

In adjusting your chainsaw’s raker height, you will need a raker-specific gauge and a filing tool.

In cases when the chain is broken, you might need to replace it altogether. Thus, keep a spare chain in hand.

Once you have everything you need, you can follow these chainsaw maintenance and repair tips:

Keeping the chain sharp is an ideal strategy for maintaining the chainsaw. You need to note that chains get brunt often. Form a habit of checking whether the chains have bent chain links. In case there are chain damages, substitute the chain before using it again.

After a long period of operation, chainsaw chains tend to stretch and sage on the guide bar. If you allow it to stay loose, it can come off the bar. Adjust the tensioning screw, which is located in the side of the guide bar.

If You want to know how to Measure a Chainsaw chain, I also had an article on my blog.​

An air filter curbs dust particles from intruding the engine. Meanwhile, the fuel filter screens dirt and rust from the fuel. Both of these need to be cleaned well. In case they are worn out, it is advisable to replace them. If possible, they need fixing every after ninety days of use.

It is imperative to follow the manufacturer’s guidelines for correct gasoline as well as oil mixtures. You need to minimize the chances of damaging your chainsaw, which happens when you use the wrong gasoline mixtures.

An engine may fail if there is inadequate lubrication. On the other hand, excess oil can block the spark arrestor.

Any broken part of a chainsaw needs to be repaired right away. Otherwise, it will damage other parts as well. The worst thing that could happen is that you’ll no longer be able to use the chainsaw anymore. If you are not adept in repairing a chainsaw, it’s best that you leave the task to a professional.

For a battery-driven chainsaw, it is advisable that you check the owner’s manual for battery cleaning tips. Recharge the cells every time they run out of power. You also need to replace the batteries in case they are damaged. One can consult a specialist on techniques in cleaning the battery terminals.

Spark arrestors are typically situated within the engine's muffler. The material used in manufacturing the sparks arrestors is the fiberglass, which is designed exceptionally in such a manner that it can only be replaced and not fixed. It is advisable to consider replacing the spark arrestors on a regular basis.

A degreaser is essential when it comes to cooling of the engine. Engines tend to get hot when you use the chainsaw for a long time. Thus, you need to keep it cool. Allow the degreaser to settle for more than ten minutes before being wiping it with a clean fabric. It is also essential to use the hose to clean the equipment and leave it dry before the next application.

When the bolts and screws of chainsaw become loose, your chainsaw may fail to function properly. Using the equipment will also become dangerous. Thus, you need to inspect the bolts and screws before and after you use the chainsaw.

Maintaining your chainsaw in perfect condition is essential. The chainsaw maintenance checklist above can help you prolong the lifespan of your chainsaw and improve its performance.