How to Maintain a Chainsaw?

Chainsaw maintenance is essential to enable it to work efficiently and safely. If it is well maintained, it can last for a very long period, whether expensive or cheap chainsaw (under $200). It's good to service the chainsaw, especially if it gets dull. So, if your chainsaw won’t start? Learn how to fix it and the steps to help you maintain your chainsaw correctly.

Steps you need to consider for daily maintenance

• Check the throttle trigger to make sure it is operating well before use. When you find that the trigger is sticking, it's recommended that you service the saw.
• Consider safety measures. This entails ensuring that the chain brake is clean and checking if the chain catcher is damaged so that you can replace it immediately to avoid further damage.
• Clean the filters. Soak in ammonia water for about 30 minutes. Clean using a soft brush to remove debris, dirt, and dust. Rinse off with clean water. If the filter is badly damaged, replace it with a new one.
• Rotate and clean the bars to prevent excess wear. Lubricate the holes to avoid friction and damage to the bars and chain.
• Ensure the chain parts are tightened, and the saw is sharpened. Check the drive sprocket if it is warm out, if so then replace it.  Sharpen the chain for efficient working and follow the instructions in the manual. Tighten the screws, nuts, and bolts for the engine to vibrate well when working.

For weekly maintenance, consider the following steps

• Make sure to check the anti-vibration elements are not getting torn or too soft. The clutch drum bearing should be lubricated, too; this will enhance the performance and prolong the life of the clutch.
• Bars should be inspected. Use your finger to feel the burrs at edges of the saw, if they are present file them and ensure they're no more.
• Remove and clean the spark plug. It should be 0.5mm. If it is worn out, replace it with a new one. The flywheel fins should also be cleaned, and the recoil spring should function well.
• Clean cooling fins on the cylinder for proper heat and cooling distribution. The carburettor and air box should also be cleaned for proper functioning.

For monthly maintenance, consider the steps below.

• Inspect the brake band of the chain. Ensure there are no spots or cracks on the band. If the bands break, then they should be replaced.
• Ensure proper connection of chain wiring, plugs, and cables. Clean and replace fuel filters as needed.
• The clutch, spring, and clutch drum should be regularly cleaned. Worn parts should be replaced with new ones.
• The chain tank should be cleaned inside. Gasoline oil can form a residue in the oil tank, damaging the saw. Therefore, it is essential to remove the oil from the tank and clean it.

Other Measures to Consider

Sharpen the blades of the saw to prevent them from dulling. To do this, clamp the saw to vice with a hard guard, then use a sharpening file to push horizontally across the blades. Repeat similarly, sharpening one direction first, then turning to the other.

Confirm the idle speed if necessary, and then make the adjustments. If you notice the chain saw idling, the chain shouldn't move. If it's moving, turn down the idle speed so the chain remains stationary.

To sum up, a chainsaw is a valuable investment. You must consider the abovementioned procedures to ensure its safety and efficient performance. This will enable it to last a long time and provide good service.