Yes, chainsaw chains do stretch out over time. Chains are made of metal and even though metal is strong and durable, it’s flexibility means it can still stretch or elongate due to regular use or heat.
When the chain is tightened, the metal links stretch and put more tension on the saw cutting teeth, which can cause a decrease in overall cutting performance. It is therefore important to regularly check the tension of your chainsaw chain to ensure it is running optimally.
Checking the tension is also a key part of maintaining a chainsaw, as a loose chain can fly off and cause harm to those working with it. This can be done by either putting the chain on a flat surface, like the table, and seeing if the rivets of the chain touch the surface, or by performing a simple pull test.
If the chain stretches more than 1/16” when making the pull test, then it is time to tension the chain. If the problem persists after tensioning the chain then it is time to replace the chain altogether.
Can a chain get stretched?
Yes, a chain can get stretched. This typically happens due to wear and tear, as well as overuse in the case of bike chains. This can cause the link pins to gradually wear down, making them less secure and causing the chain to stretch.
Changes in temperature can also contribute to the stretching of a chain, as metal expands and contracts due to temperature fluctuations. As the chain stretches, it will cause it to become loose, leading to difficulty in shifting gears and causing the chain to skip.
To prevent stretching of your chain, you should regularly inspect and clean it, as well as lubricate it regularly with a quality chain lube. Regularly swapping out the chain can also help to prevent stretching, extending the life of your drivetrain.
Why does my chain keep stretching?
Over time, the drivetrain on your bike will start to wear down, leading to a phenomenon known as “chain stretching. ” Chain stretching is when the links of your chain become elongated and no longer fit together as tightly as when new.
Factors that can contribute to this include the type and number of gears, the number of miles you ride, and the type of terrain you ride. As the chain moves up and down the cassette, it experiences extra pressure and friction, which can gradually cause portions of the link to thin and pull apart.
This causes your chain to become stretched, resulting in decreased performance and increased wear on your drivetrain components. To keep your chain from stretching, regularly clean, lubricate, and inspect it and replace it once it has stretched beyond a certain point.
Additionally, always use the appropriate chain for your specific bike setup and be sure to replace worn and damaged components immediately.
How do I stop my chainsaw chain from stretching?
To stop your chainsaw chain from stretching, there are several steps you should take. First, ensure that the bar, sprocket, and chain are all clean and free of debris. If you are using a brand new chain, check to make sure that it is the right size and type for your saw.
Second, make sure the tension on the chain is correct before and after each use. If the chain is too loose or too tight, it can cause the chain to stretch.
Third, use a quality bar and chain oil to lubricate the chain. This will allow it to move smoothly and reduce wear and tear on the chain.
Fourth, inspect the saw for any damage such as bent links or loose rivets, and replace any damaged parts.
Finally, if the chain is still stretching, it may be time to replace it. Make sure to purchase a chain that is specific for your saw and that is the correct size and type. The chain may have become stretched from overuse, or it may have been damaged.
Following these steps should help you keep your chainsaw chain tensioned correctly and stop it from stretching.
Why won’t my chainsaw chain tighten?
If your chainsaw chain won’t tighten, it can be due to a few common causes. The first is that the tensioner may be worn out, preventing it from being able to turn the tensioning screw. Another common cause is that the chain may be too long for the bar.
This can happen if you’ve replaced the bar and not taken proper measurements. Damage to the bar or guide rail can also cause the chain to not stay tight, as the chain may be able to slip off the rails.
Finally, the threads in the tensioner can become damaged over time, preventing the tensioning screw from being able to turn. In any of these cases, it is usually necessary to replace either the bar, the chain, or the tensioner in order to get the chain back on properly and to the correct tension.
How does a metallic chain get elongated?
A metallic chain can become elongated through a process called cold-working or “drawing. ” Cold-working involves compressing the metal until it becomes longer and thinner. This is done either by hand or by using special tools.
In order to cold work a metal accurately, it must be heated to a specific temperature, which depends on the type of metal being used. This heat allows the metal to become soft and malleable and more responsive to being drawn with the metalworking tools.
The amount of heat used also depends on the hardnesses of the metal as well as the tools being used. Generally speaking, the metal is extended until it reaches the desired length and diameter. This process makes the metal stronger and more durable, as it multiplies the number of grains – defined as the level at which a metal is magnetized – which give the metal strength and durability.
After the metal has been cold-worked, it is annealed, which further increases the metal’s malleability. Annealing is done at a very high temperature, usually resulting in a change of color in the metal.
This process allows the metal to be worked with again in order to create the desired shape or size.
How do you tighten the tension on a chainsaw?
Tightening the tension on a chainsaw is an important task to keep a chainsaw in proper working condition. It is important to check the tension of the chain often due to the possibility of vibrations and heavy use.
To begin, make sure your chainsaw is turned off and unplugged before attempting to perform this task. Next, locate the bar and chain tension adjuster nut located at the side of the saw before the muffler.
With your right hand, hold the drive sprocket and loosen the tension adjuster nut with your left hand. Afterward, move the bar back and forth while pulling the chain taunt. If the chain is tensioned correctly, the chain will move without sagging away from the bar after being released.
Once the appropriate tension is achieved, securely tighten the tension adjuster nut. Lastly, it is important to ensure the chain brake is functional after the chain has been tensioned, as this will prevent it from working if the chain is too tight.
What is the correct tension for a chainsaw chain?
The correct tension for a chainsaw chain varies by saw model, however there is a general rule that applies to most chainsaw models. Generally, the chainsaw chain should be tensioned so that when the chain is pulled up and away from the guide bar, it should lift no more than ¼ of an inch.
If the chain can be easily lifted up away from the guide bar more than this, it is too loose and should be tightened. Too much chain tension can damage the chainsaw components, so it is important to make sure the tension is not too tight.
A good way to ensure the chain tension is properly set is to physically check the chain tension after each use.
Can you put a chain on a chainsaw backwards?
No, it is not advisable to put a chain on a chainsaw backwards. A chain needs to be put on in the proper position to ensure the cutting teeth point in the right direction. The chain is meant to rotate in a counterclockwise direction when the saw is in use, and if it is put on backwards, then it will not cut properly and could cause serious harm to the user.
Additionally, the safety guards and brakes may not work as intended if the chain is on backwards, increasing the risk of injury. Therefore, it is important to always follow the manufacturer’s instructions when putting a chain on a chainsaw.
When should you throw away a chainsaw chain?
You should throw away a chainsaw chain when it is worn down and no longer has sharp teeth. You may also need to replace it if the chain becomes stretched, is badly twisted, welds have become damaged, or if it has gotten too loose from being used a lot.
Additionally, any chips or cracks in the chain should also be an indicator to replace it. Make sure to check for all of these signs after each use of your chainsaw chain to ensure that it is in good condition and still safe for use.
How many times can a chainsaw chain be sharpened?
The number of times you can sharpen a chainsaw chain depends on the type of chain and the quality of the steel. For example, most quality chains are capable of being sharpened about 10 to 12 times. Some low-end chains with poorer steel may only be able to be sharpened 3 to 5 times.
It is important to understand your chain type and the quality of its steel when determining how many times it can be sharpened. Additionally, the sharpening frequency can vary depending on the type of use the chain saw is being used for.
For example, a chain used for high-intensity felling of large trees may need to be sharpened more frequently than one used for occasional pruning or light cutting of smaller material. Ultimately, it is important to inspect the chain regularly, sharpen when needed, and make sure you’re using quality fuels and bar oil for longer lasting performance.
How often and how should a chainsaw blade be sharpened?
For optimal performance, a chainsaw blade should be sharpened regularly, typically after every 3 to 5 hours of use. Additionally, sharpening should be done after cutting hardwood as this will dull the blade faster than cutting softwood.
When sharpening a chainsaw blade, it is important to use the correct equipment and techniques so that the blades can cut optimally and safely. A chainsaw file or an angle grinder with a grinding disc should be used to sharpen the blade.
The correct filing angle should be maintained when sharpening the blade, which can typically range from 10 to 15 degrees. In addition, keeping even pressure on both sides of the chainsaw teeth ensures that all teeth will stay the same length.
Sharpening the chainsaw blade correctly helps to preserve the blade, extend its life, and give the blade better cutting performance. Regularly sharpening the blade also prevents it from becoming dull or damaged due to heavy use.
It is important to wear protective gear such as safety glasses, hearing protection, and gloves when sharpening the blade.
How tight should my chain be on my chainsaw?
The tension of the chain on a chainsaw should be checked frequently, as a saw with a loose chain can cause the chain to come off during operation. This can lead to damage to the saw or to the operator.
Generally, the chain should have enough tension so that it does not move freely when you lift it up and away from the bar, but it also must not be too tightly tensioned as this will cause premature wear, or even breakage of the chain.
A good rule of thumb is that the chain should be able to be moved sideways with fingertip pressure, but not be so loose that it can be moved more than half an inch away from the bar. It is also important to adjust the chain tension according to the manufacturer’s instructions as adjustable saws often vary slightly in how much tension should be applied.
Finally, before using the chainsaw, it is also important to make sure that all protective guards are in place and that the chain brake is working properly.
Can you over tighten a chainsaw?
Yes, it is possible to over tighten a chainsaw. A chainsaw is designed to be tightened up to a specific torque – going above this torque can cause damage to the chainsaw. Over tightening the chainsaw can cause damage to the crankshaft, increase the stress on the engine, and cause the screws to warp.
In addition to this, over tightening can also cause the chainsaw to become unbalanced, leading to uneven and jerky performance. For this reason, it is important to make sure that the chainsaw is tightened to the correct torque as outlined in the user manual.
It is also a good idea to double-check the tension of the chainsaw regularly, as this will help to keep it running smoothly and efficiently.
Is it better to sharpen or replace a chainsaw chain?
It depends on the condition of the chain and how much use it has seen. Generally, it is better to sharpen a chain rather than replacing it as it is less costly and more environmentally friendly. However, if the chain is considerably worn down or damaged, then replacement may be the best option.
Furthermore, replacement is recommended if the chain is from a low-quality brand as it may not stand up to the sharpening process. Additionally, it is important to take into consideration the type of wood that the chain will be cutting and how often it will be used.
A sharp chain is crucial for efficient, accurate, and safe cutting, so it’s important to assess whether sharpening or replacing is the best option. Ultimately, the more use a chain has and the worse its condition is, the more likely it is to require replacement.
What size file do you use on a 3/8 chain?
A 3/8″ chain is typically used with a 3/8″ drive, which accepts a variety of file sizes depending on the size of the chain and the type of chain material. Generally, when working with a 3/8″ chain, users prefer to use a 5/32″ file.
This size file is just the right size for most chains and its small size allows it to easily fit into tight spaces and work effectively. A larger size file, such as a 3/16″ file, would give more material removal and could cause damage to the chain if used without caution.
Therefore, when working with a 3/8″ chain, it is best to use a 5/32″ file as it can provide the desired results while minimizing any potential risks.
Which way does a chainsaw blade go?
A chainsaw blade is designed to cut wood against the direction of the rotation of the chain. So it should be installed with the teeth of the blade pointing towards the direction from which the chain is coming.
This means the top surface of the bar should be facing away from the user. Ensuring the bar is mounted correctly will ensure the saw operates safely and effectively. It is important to always wear appropriate safety gear such as goggles and ear protection while operating a chainsaw.
Be sure to read and follow all the safety instructions provided with your chainsaw.
What does 72 mean on a chainsaw chain?
The number 72 on a chainsaw chain refers to its cutting swag, which is how many cutters it has on each link. This number is often abbreviated as “pitch,” since it is equivalent to the number of inches between three consecutive rivets divided by two.
All chainsaws have standard pitches that align with their bar lengths. Therefore, a 72-pitch chain will always fit a saw with a larger bar, while a smaller bar requires a smaller pitch. In general, larger pitch chains are more durable and cut faster than smaller pitch sizes, but require more power to operate.
You will often find other numbers included with chainsaw chain measurements, such as “gauge. ” This number refers to the width of the chain and is written as ”0.058” for a 58-gauge saw. Cross-referencing these numbers and finding compatible chains for your saw is the best way to ensure your chainsaw runs safely and effectively.