How much time and effort do you put into maintaining your chainsaw? If you aren’t putting in any time, you certainly should consider it.
Remember, a chainsaw is one of the most dangerous power tools in the world, even considering how much safer they are today than in the past. Still, solid, regular maintenance is a very good way to keep you safe and prevent a terrible mishap.
Proper maintenance is not only imperative to your own safety, but it can also go a long way in keeping the chainsaw in top working order while maintaining a longer lifespan.
Here’s a step-by-step way to make sure your chainsaw is kept in tip-top shape for the long haul.
1) When adding gas, make sure you blend the oil and gasoline as directed in the owner’s manual. Make sure they’re combined correctly before adding them to the chainsaw or the oil will sink to the bottom of the gas can.
2) Make sure you keep your chain sharp. If a chain goes dull, it can contribute to accidents or at the least burn you out as you grind away on logs. Simply put, a sharp chain does the cutting for you. If it’s not sharp, you’ll end up doing most of the work yourself. If the chainsaw is shooting out chunks of wood about a fourth of an inch across, it’s sharp. If nothing but sawdust is coming out, it’s time to either sharpen the chain or change it.
3) It’s normally recommended to have one or two extra sharp chains when cutting so you can change the one on the saw if it gets dull or if you hit a rock. If you want to sharpen the chain, it’s a good idea to take it to a professional. However, if you want to learn how to sharpen it on your own, check out this article from Tractor Supply Company (http://www.tractorsupply.com/know-how_Chainsaws_how-to-sharpen-a-chainsaw).
4) Always keep the chain clean, tight and oiled. Before each use, check to make sure the chain fits snug against the bar while remaining loose enough to be moved with a gloved hand. Also, check the chain oil and fill the reservoir if needed. Don’t allow sawdust or wood chips to clog up the chain and always double-check the chain oil.
5) If your chainsaw seems to be losing power, it’s time to clean the air filter or replace it. A fuel filter is also a component that should be cleaned on a regular basis.
6) Always make sure you are double-checking the nuts, bolts and screws to make sure they are tight for top maintenance. Check spark plugs and the carburetor and regularly clean and adjust them. Also, be sure to check and replace hoses and starter rope when needed.
7) Keep an eye on the chain when the chainsaw is idling. If it is moving, it’s time to turn down the idle speed because this could lead to an unsafe condition.
8) During times of the year when you aren’t using your chainsaw, store away properly and drain all the fuel from the tank and lines. Take the chain off, store in a safe container filled with oil. Drain the oil from the chainsaw. And clean the entire saw.
9) Whenever you have questions, don’t be afraid to ask a pro.
These are some ways to thoroughly maintain your chainsaw and keep it running safely and for a long time to come.
