If your chainsaw won’t cut straight, it could be caused by a variety of things. First, you should check to make sure that the chainsaw bar and chain are properly tensioned and correctly aligned. Too much tension on the chain can cause the saw to cut at an angle, while improper alignment could also result in a crooked cut.
If the tension and alignment are correct, then you should check to make sure that the chain is sharp. A dull chain can also cause a saw to cut at an angle. If the chain is not sharp, you will need to sharpen the chain using a file and guide.
If the chain is sharp and the tension and alignment are correct but the saw still won’t cut straight, then it is likely a problem with the engine or the carburetor. If this is the case, you may want to take the chainsaw to a certified mechanic for repair.
What causes a chainsaw to cut crooked?
Chainsaws can cut crookedly for a variety of reasons. One possible issue is an incorrect tension on the chain. If the chain is too loose or too tight, the bar may slightly bend, causing the saw to cut crookedly.
Another possible cause is a damaged cutting tooth or drive link. If a cutting tooth or drive link becomes worn down, bent, or dull, it can result in an erratic chain motion and thus cause the saw to cut crookedly.
Additionally, a dirty or clogged filter or air filter may inhibit a chainsaw’s performance and cause it to cut unevenly. Periodically checking filters, and cleaning or replacing as needed, can help to reduce the chances of inconsistent cutting.
Lastly, a misaligned chain can also cause the saw to cut at odd angles. This can happen when the chain is mounted on the bar incorrectly or when the guide bar has been warped. Checking the alignment periodically and making adjustments as necessary can help to ensure a straight cut.
Why does my chainsaw cut to the left?
One of the most common causes is having the chain tension set incorrectly. If the tension is too tight, the chainsaw will begin to pull in the direction of the tighter side, usually causing it to veer off to the left.
Additionally, if the bar or chain is bent or warped, this can also cause it to cut to the left instead of straight.
Incorrect filing can also lead to a saw cutting to the left, as the cutter teeth will be sharper on one side than the other and cause the saw to stray from a straight line. Last, the drive sprocket that the chain rides on could be worn down, causing the chain to be tight on one side and loose on the other, resulting in an angled cut.
To rectify the issue, it’s important to make sure the chain tension is adjusted correctly and that all cutter teeth are filed and sharpened properly. Replacing the drive sprocket is also a good solution if it is worn down or broken.
How do you straighten a chainsaw blade?
Straightening a chainsaw blade can be accomplished by using a chainsaw blade grinder. This is a tool that works much like a standard bench grinder, but is specifically made for sharpening chainsaw blades.
First, use a file to make sure that the teeth of the chain are all the same length. This will prevent uneven sharpening. Next, set the grinder to the right angle and adjust the guide according to the specifics of the blade.
Place the blade on the rest, keeping your hands away from the grinder wheel. Use gentle, controlled passes, taking care to keep the blade at the correct angle. Do not apply too much pressure as this can cause damage to the blade.
Make sure to only sharpen the top and sides of the teeth, never the bottom. After the process is complete, use a file and strop to further refine the sharpness of the blade. Double check that all the teeth are the same length and recheck for any defects in the saw before reattaching it to the chainsaw.
How long should a chainsaw chain last before sharpening?
The answer to this question depends on several factors, including the type and quality of the chainsaw chain, how often it is used, and the nature of the work it is used for. Generally speaking, a quality chain should last between 10 and 20 hours of active cutting before it begins to dull and require sharpening.
However, if the chain is being used for more frequent, heavy-duty cutting, it may need to be sharpened after just 5 or 6 hours of use. Conversely, if the chain is being used for lighter tasks, it may last even longer than 20 hours before requiring sharpening.
Also, certain types of chains made with certain materials may be designed to remain sharp longer than others, so it is important to consider the type of chain when setting expectations for how long a chainsaw chain should last before sharpening.
What do you do with a stretched chainsaw chain?
Using a stretched chainsaw chain is not recommended, as it can cause the chain to wear out faster and possibly break during use. In order to maintain a chainsaw’s chain and keep it in good working condition, it is important to regularly inspect the chain for signs of wear and stretch.
If the chain appears to be stretched, it should be replaced with a new chain. If replacement is not a viable option, the chain can be tightened by adjusting the tensioner, but this should be done only by a qualified chainsaw technician.
Ensuring the chain is properly tensioned at all times will help extend the chain and bar’s life and help maintain peak performance. Additionally, sharpening the chain with a special chain-sharpening tool according to the manufacturer’s instructions can help the chain perform at its peak.
By following these tips, your chainsaw chain should be safe to operate and provide reliable performance.
How do I know if my chainsaw bar is bent?
In order to determine if your chainsaw bar is bent, you should first check if the cuts you are making with it are straight. If the cuts you are making with the chainsaw bar appear to be wavy or curved, it is likely that the bar is bent.
In addition to checking the cuts you are making, you can also check the bar itself for any visible signs of damage or warping. If you are still unsure about the integrity of your chainsaw bar, then it is best to take it to a professional to have it inspected.
They will be able to better assess the overall condition of the chainsaw bar and advise you if it needs to be repaired or replaced.
Can you put chainsaw chain backwards?
It is possible to put a chainsaw chain backwards, however it is not recommended. Putting a chainsaw chain backwards can cause several different problems, such as not cutting correctly and the chain jamming up easily.
This can result in a major safety hazard if the chain were to get stuck in the wood or kick back towards the user in an unexpected way. Additionally, it can be very difficult to remove and replace the chain on the chainsaw if it is put on backwards.
If a person needs to loosen the chain to take it off, they may have to turn it around while it is still attached to the chainsaw. This can be very difficult and time-consuming. For these reasons, it is not generally recommended to put a chainsaw chain on backwards.
What causes bluing on chainsaw bar?
Blinging on a chainsaw bar is typically caused by a build-up of friction generated when the chain is in contact with the bar. This friction causes heat and as a result, a discoloration of the bar surface.
To prevent bluing or discoloration of your chainsaw bar, it is important to ensure that the chain is properly tensioned and at the right tension. The tension should be adjusted periodically to ensure that the chain is not too tight.
Additionally, the chain should be kept lubricated with bar and chain oil, as it helps reduce friction and heat buildup. Furthermore, it is important to use a chainsaw file to periodically sharpen the chain, as this will also help reduce the heat and friction generated when the chain is in use.
Ensuring that the correct maintenance is done will help prevent bluing on your chainsaw bar.
Why is my chainsaw burning the wood?
One possible reason is that the chainsaw is not cutting deep enough, causing the teeth to heat up and scorch the wood as they pass over it. Another possibility is that the saw chain is too tight, leading to too much friction and resulting in the wood burning.
Additionally, it could be that the chain is dull and needs to be sharpened, which could also be causing excess heat and burning the wood. Lastly, if something is blocking the chain, such as dirt or debris, this could also be causing the burning.
It is important to check these individual items and make sure that your chainsaw is in proper working order. You should inspect the chain for sharpness and tension, make sure there isn’t anything large blocking the chain, and replace the chain or have it sharpened if needed.
How do you cut down a tree with a chainsaw?
Cutting down a tree with a chainsaw requires several steps and should be done with caution and care. To start, select the tree you plan to cut, identify any obstructions it might have (nearby homes, power lines, etc.
), and carefully plan the direction you want the tree to fall based on the surrounding landscape. Chainsaws should only be used by those with proper safety equipment and experience. Prepare the chainsaw by checking that it is properly fueled and oiled, and wear safety equipment including a face shield, ear protection, safety pants and boots, and gloves.
Begin by cutting a partial notch into one side of the tree, about 1/4 of the way through the trunk. Then move to the opposite side of the tree and cut another, slightly overlapping, partial notch. The resulting “V” shape should point in the direction you plan to fell the tree.
Finish cutting the notch all the way through, taking caution to exit the cut before the tree falls. Once the notch is finished, drive your saw into the trunk and cut horizontally down towards the notch.
Continue angling the saw with the blade facing downwards as you cut. Once the saw has fully penetrated the trunk, the tree should be ready to fall.
Take safety precautions by standing off to the side of the notch and fall line, and have an escape route cleared should the tree fall the wrong direction. Use a rope to help control the tree if needed.
Finally, remove any branches that may be in the way and clear the site of the fallen tree.
How do you adjust the tension on a Husqvarna chainsaw?
Adjusting the tension on a Husqvarna chainsaw is a relatively simple process. Before you start, make sure the chainsaw is off, then begin by loosening the chain tensioner knob, which is generally located near the bottom of the handle or right behind the clutch cover.
With gloves, pull the chain around the guide bar so you can access the chain tensioner. Then, with a flat-head screwdriver, turn the chain tensioner to the left to loosen the chain, and to the right to tighten the chain.
It’s important to ensure that the chain has enough tension to run smoothly and safely, but not too much so it becomes over-tensioned. When the chain is adjusted to the correct amount of tension, re-tighten the chain tensioner knob and then test the chainsaw with a safe test cut.
Make sure the chain is not going to come off when the chainsaw is running. Finally, after you’re done adjusting the chain, brush off any dust or debris, and then oil the chain with a quality chain saw oil.