Chainsaws are one of the best power tools you will ever own. Whether you burn firewood, clean off fence rows or trim trees, a good chainsaw can make big jobs go quickly. But they can be very dangerous, and they demand a lot of respect. Anyone who picks up a chainsaw should be physically able to handle the saw being used and be familiar with its operation.
I have written before on choosing a chain and knowing the proper pitch and gauge to fit the saw and bar you are using, but today I would like to cover some additional tips on maintaining the chain during use.
•Tension must be correct and maintained. Never set tension on a hot chain. Chain will naturally expand and loosen as it heats up during use. Always allow the chain to cool for a few minutes before tightening.
Loosen the bar nuts, pull up on the nose of the bar, and tighten the chain until the bottom of the links make contact with the bar. (HINT. Wear gloves any time you handle saw chain.) While still holding up the nose of the bar, tighten the rear bar nut first and then tighten the front nut. Pull the chain along the bar a few times. The chain should feel snug, but pull freely. Check tension after several cuts (more often if you have put on a new chain).
•The chain must be lubricated. A dry chain will burn up in no time and destroy the bar in the process. Most saws have automatic oilers. Always fill the resevoir with bar and chain oil. Motor oil should never be used. Bar and chain oil is much tackier and will stay on the chain and in the groove of the bar. Always be looking for oil on the chain. Check the oil level each time you fill the saw with fuel.
•The chain must be sharp. A dull chain is harder on you and the chainsaw. You may choose to have the chain sharpened at the local saw shop or buy a kit and do it yourself. Be sure to get the right size file and kit for your chain. The kit will include a file holder that will give you the right angle of sharpening.
•Depth gauges must be set. Depth gauges are often overlooked when sharpening a chain. If improperly set, the chain will not cut well and could be prone to kickback. A good sharpening kit should include a depth gauge.
As always, follow manufacturers’ recommendations and, if you use a sharpening kit, follow the directions there as well. If a chain is properly set up and sharp, the saw will do the cutting for you and make the job much easier.
There are many different sizes, weights and types of chainsaws available, and there is one perfect for you and your project. For small jobs, electric saws are great, and there have been many improvements in battery-operated models. These allow you to avoid some of the maintenance you have with gas-operated machines.
Maintenance, safety, knowledge and safety (did I mention safety?) are all very important when using a chainsaw. Always wear proper clothing and safety apparel. Remember, help is just around the corner at your local hardware store.
