The best way to sharpen a chainsaw blade is with a file specifically designed for chainsaw teeth. Make sure to adjust the depth gauge before beginning the sharpening process. First, place the file in the depth gauge and turn the saw upside down so you can see the teeth.
When filing, you’ll need to create alternate top bevels with each side of the file and maintain the cutting angle created by the manufacturer. You’ll also want to keep the file level with the blade when filing as this will ensure that the chainsaw continues to operate safely and effectively.
Once you’ve sharpened all the edges of the teeth, use a flat file to remove burrs and smooth the top plates. Finally, use a small round file to sharpen the depth gauge, and always replace it if it becomes damaged.
Following these steps will ensure that your chainsaw blade is effectively and safely sharpened.
How do I hand sharpen a chainsaw chain?
Hand sharpening a chainsaw chain is a fairly straightforward process but it does require some tools, knowledge and safety precautions. Before starting make sure you are wearing the correct safety apparel; a hard hat, gloves, steel toe boots, protective glasses, and ear protection.
First step is to check the chain’s condition and make sure you are aware of the filing gauge and depth gauge of the chain. In order to sharpen the chain you will need a round file and a file guide. The round file comes in various measurements so make sure that it is the correct one for the chain.
File guides allow for the correct filing angle, which should always be maintained when filing.
Once everything is set up the filing can begin. It is important to use only a back and forth filing motion, avoiding any side to side movement. Start at the top of the saw and use a smooth filing action, slowly progressing around the chain.
Make sure to consistently check the depth gauge as you file and replace the file once it is no longer effective. After filing is completed each connection point will need to be stoned in order to remove any burring.
Finally, thoroughly wipe down the chain with a cloth and use a light lubricant to protect it. When the steps have been taken to ensure the chain is sharpened properly it is time to reassemble the chain and get back to work.
How do I know if my chainsaw chain is sharp?
It can be tricky to tell if your chainsaw chain is sharp or not. A good way to quickly test whether your chain is sharp enough to use is to grab a piece of wood from a fallen tree or an old pallet and see how easily the saw cuts through it.
If your chainsaw drags, makes high pitched noises, or isn’t cutting all the way through, then your chainsaw chain may need to be sharpened. Another simple way to tell is to look at the chainsaw blade.
It should look clean and relatively free of nicks and dirt. It should also be evenly shaped across the length of the blade with no dents or “uneveness” in the metal. If you can easily see signs of wear, corrosion, or heavy pitting, then it’s time to sharpen your chainsaw chain.
What part of chainsaw blade do you sharpen?
When sharpening a chainsaw blade, you will be primarily sharpening the teeth. The teeth of the chain set the cutting edge of the saw, so they need to be kept in good condition in order to ensure that the saw will cut cleanly and efficiently.
To sharpen the teeth of your chainsaw blade, you will need a round file of the correct size for the chain. Start by affixing the round file to a bar-mount filing guide to ensure that the file is held at the correct angle when sharpening.
Move the file along each of the chain’s teeth in a level line and make sure to file both sides of every tooth. When done, remove the round file from the filing guide and inspect the chain’s teeth for smoothness.
If the teeth look worn, sharp, and properly aligned, you’re done and can move on to oiling the chain for protection and lubrication.
Are chainsaw blade blades worth sharpening?
Yes, chainsaw blade blades are definitely worth sharpening. Regular sharpening of chainsaw blades effectively reduces both wear and friction, thereby increasing the lifespan of the blade. Moreover, sharpening the blade can increase cutting efficiency and help prevent kickback, which is caused when the blade meets resistance and doesn’t cut into the material quickly enough.
Properly sharpened blades also create cleaner cuts, which can help prevent extra cutting time due to hanging branches or uneven cuts. Lastly, if not properly sharpened the blade may start to vibrate and cause sawing inaccuracies.
All in all, the benefits of sharpening chainsaw blades far outweigh the time and money required to do so.
Why does my chainsaw chain dull so quickly?
There can be a few possible reasons why a chainsaw chain can become dull quite quickly, ranging from user error to poor quality. First and foremost, chainsaw blades need to be properly maintained and sharpened regularly in order to prevent them from becoming dull.
For instance, regular oiling and cleaning can help to ensure that the blades remain in good condition and don’t suffer from corrosion or wear. If the chain is not properly lubricated or maintained, it can become dull very quickly due to friction and heat generated from the chain’s movement.
In addition, if a chainsaw blade is of low quality, it will likely dull more quickly than a higher quality blade. Generally, higher quality blades are made of superior steel and feature better teeth designs that hold their edge better.
Low quality chain may be made of substandard steel, which is less durable and more prone to dulling quickly. Finally, incorrect saw chain tensioning can cause the blades to become dull faster, as the chains are allowed to touch the tree or other object being cut.
Proper tensioning is important for keeping the blades sharp and in good condition.
How long should a chainsaw chain last before sharpening?
The length of time a chainsaw chain can last before needing to be sharpened depends on a variety of factors, including the type and quality of the chain, the environment, and the operator’s level of experience.
Generally, a chain that is correctly sharpened, maintained, and guided correctly should last between 8 and 10 hours, depending on the cutting conditions. However, chains that are used in wet or dirtier environments may require more frequent sharpening and maintenance, potentially even as often as every 6 hours.
In addition, no matter how well-maintained the chain is, experienced operators who work in difficult conditions may find that their chain is blunted after only 4 or 5 hours of use. Ultimately, the best advice is to periodically inspect your chain and stay aware of its condition and performance to ensure that it runs effectively and safely.
How much does it cost to get a chainsaw blade sharpened?
The cost to get a chainsaw blade sharpened varies depending on the size and type of chainsaw blade, as well as the shop you take it to. Smaller chainsaw blades (up to 20”) generally cost around $10-20 to sharpen, while larger blades (over 20”) may cost around $30-50.
Prices can be higher or lower depending on the shop, so it’s best to call and ask before bringing it in. Generally speaking, it’s also more economical to sharpen a blade correctly than to purchase multiple new blades, so if you’re planning to use your chainsaw regularly, it’s a good idea to get it sharpened instead of buying a new one.
Does dirt dull a chainsaw?
Yes, dirt can dull a chainsaw. As dirt accumulates and builds up on the chainsaw’s bar, it affects the cutting performance as dirt and debris work as an abrasive to wear away at the surface of the chain and the bar.
This affects the chain’s cutting performance, decreasing power and wear down the blade faster. Additionally, dirt buildup can increase the friction between the chain and bar and cause the chain to skip or jam, further decreasing cutting power.
To prevent the buildup of dirt and debris on the chainsaw’s bar it’s necessary to clean and lubricate the chain regularly as part of routine maintenance. Regular cleaning and lubrication will help keep the chain clean and reduce the chance of dirt dulling the chainsaw’s blade.
Are chainsaw sharpeners worth it?
Yes, chainsaw sharpeners are definitely worth it. Not only do they save you time and money from having to take your chainsaw to a professional sharpening service, but they also help you keep your chainsaw in good condition.
A well-maintained and sharpened chain is important for chainsaw safety, as well as for efficiency and effectiveness when using the saw. A sharpened chain is much less likely to slip and cause an accident or kick back.
A sharpened chain also cuts faster, straighter, and smoother, which makes cutting easier, faster, and more efficient. Investing in a good chainsaw sharpener is a smart choice, as it will help you keep your chainsaw in top working condition and reduce any potential accidents.
Is there an automatic chainsaw sharpener?
Yes, there is an automatic chainsaw sharpener available on the market. These sharpeners use grinding discs that can quickly and accurately sharpen the cutting teeth on any chainsaw chain. They often come as a kit that includes a grinding disc, a guide bar and a sharpening stone for further finer tuning of the cutting teeth.
Automatic chainsaw sharpeners typically clamp onto the chainsaw bar in order to provide the best stability when sharpening the teeth. They can be powered by electricity or use a gas-powered motor to spin the grinding disc.
Many electric models are portable, making them easy to move around and use on-site. Although they require some initial setup and may take a bit of time and experience to get used to, they can be a great time-saver compared to manual sharpening methods.
What size file do I need for a STIHL .325 chain?
The correct size file for a STIHL. 325 chain is a 5/32 inch file. This size is more commonly referred to as an 8 mm file in metric sizes. It is important to use the right size file when sharpening the chain to keep the correct cutting angle and depth.
Using a file that is too large will create flare cuts that are not beneficial to the chain, while a file that is too small can result in less efficient cutting performance. Many STIHL chains come with a 4.
8 mm file that is usually suitable for basic sharpening, but for a thorough sharpening job the 5/32 inch file is recommended.
What size is my chainsaw chain?
The size of your chainsaw chain will depend on the make and model of your chainsaw. Generally speaking, the size of your chainsaw chain is determined by the length and pitch of the chain, which can be found in the manual of your chainsaw or on a plate on the side of the saw itself.
The pitch of the chain typically ranges from. 043 to. 058, while the length of the chain (the distance between two drive links) can range from 1/4″ to 3/4″. It’s important to note that different manufacturers may use different sizes for their chains, so you’ll want to double check the size before purchasing a new chain.
Additionally, chains can come in the following four types: full-skip, semi-skip, skip-skip, and low-profile. Each type has a different number of teeth, so choosing the right type can help ensure that your saw operates effectively and efficiently.
How do you fix a chainsaw that won’t cut straight?
In order to fix a chainsaw that won’t cut straight, there are a few different things that you can try. The first step is to make sure the chain is properly sharpened and tensioned. You should also make sure that the chain’s drive links are properly aligned and positioned in the bar groove.
If the chain is not properly tensioned, the sharp edges can pull in opposite directions and make your cuts uneven.
You should also check to make sure the chain brake is adjusted correctly. This brake is designed to stop the chain from rotating when it is Idle and will help keep the chain from cutting unevenly.
Another step you can take is to replace the guide bar. When the chain gets worn out, it can cause the bar to bend and create an uneven cut. A new guide bar can help improve the level of the cut.
Finally, you may need to adjust the carburetor. If the carburetor is not adjusted correctly, it can cause the chainsaw to not run at full power, leading to an unsteady cut.
In summary, to fix a chainsaw that won’t cut straight, make sure the chain is properly sharpened and tensioned, Check to make sure the chain brake is adjusted correctly, replace the guide bar if it’s worn out and adjust the carburetor.
With these steps, you can get your chainsaw cutting straight again.