Chainsaws have made life a lot easier when it comes to cutting trees, but they come with their own set of problems. One of the most common issues is a kinked saw chain.
A kink in a chainsaw chain can be frustrating, especially when you’re trying to get work done. However, it is not the end of the world.
So let’s take you through steps on how to fix a kinked chainsaw chain. This guide is designed for homeowners and tree cutting services alike, and we hope you find it helpful.
Step 1: Identify the kinks
The first step in fixing a kinked chainsaw chain is to assess the damage. Look to see how severe the kink is and whether it’s caused by a dull chain, worn sprocket or guide bar, or improper tensioning.
Depending on the extent of the damage, you may need to replace the chain, bar, or sprocket. A severely kinked chain may also cause damage to the chainsaw itself, so be sure to inspect the entire saw carefully.
If there is only one kink, try to find it and readjust your chain. If there are more than one, you may need to take off the entire chain and repair it.
Step 2: Loosen the chain tension
The next step is to loosen the chain tension of your. You can do this by unscrewing the nuts or bolts that hold the guide bar onto the saw. Once you’ve loosened the tension, you can remove the saw chain.
You should then clean the chain with a brush and some oil, removing any debris, dirt or sawdust that may have accumulated in the links. Have a look for any signs of cracks, chips or missing teeth and replace the chain if you notice any damage.
Step 3: Straighten the kinks
It’s now time to straighten the kinks. Place the chain on a flat surface and manually manipulate the links to straighten out the kink. You can also use a pair of pliers to carefully bend or twist the links back into place. Be sure to avoid over-stressing the chain as this can cause further damage.
When you’re done, lay the chain on a flat surface to check whether there are any remaining kinks.
Check the pitch and gauge of the chain, as well as the depth gauge settings to ensure they conform to the manufacturer’s specifications.
Step 4: File the cutters
After fixing the kinks, it’s important to inspect the cutters. If they’re too worn or rusty, file them until the cutting surface is sharp. It’s good practice to file the cutters when you’re sharpening the chainsaw. This step will prevent the chain from breaking in the future.
Step 5: Install the chain
Once you’ve straightened the chain, you can reinstall it. Reinstall the chain around the sprocket, making sure the cutting teeth are facing towards the front of the chainsaw.
Tighten the tensioning screw, and check the tension of the chain. There should be a small amount of sag in the chain, just enough to allow it to easily rotate around the bar.
You then need to lubricate the chain with some chainsaw oil to ensure proper lubrication to the links, bar and sprocket when in use. Avoid using regular motor oil as it’s not designed for chainsaw use, and may damage the saw. Proper lubrication is crucial to ensure efficient and reliable operation of the chainsaw.
Final Thoughts
Learning how to fix kinked chainsaw chains is an essential skill for homeowners and tree cutting professionals alike. By assessing the damage, removing the kink, inspecting the chain, ensuring proper tensioning, and lubricating the chain, you can effectively fix a kinked chainsaw chain and keep your saw in good working condition.
Before you start working, make sure that you have the necessary tools and follow the five steps outlined in this post. If you’re unsure about any of the steps, seek professional help.
Remember, regular maintenance and inspection of your chainsaw can save you time, effort, and money in the long run. Keep your saw in top condition, and you’ll be able to tackle any tree cutting task with ease.
