This article covers topics fundamental to care and operation of a chainsaw.
Chainsaws
come in many different makes, models and sizes. What follows is
general overview that covers topics general to all gas powered units.
It is highly advisable to carefully read the owner’s manual for
your saw before attempting to apply what is discussed here. If you
chucked the manual somewhere in the deep dark recesses of your shop
and can’t find it, check the companies website. Many of these
websites contain a lot of very useful information, and some are better
than others. The author assumes no responsibility for any injury or
damage caused by readers following suggestions contained herein.
Chain,
chain, chain…
The
whole point of a chainsaw is to cut, so we’ll start with that end
of the machine. There are basically two parts to the chain, the
cutter and the links. The links are between left and right hand
cutters. The chain may also have some features that prevent kickback.
Kickback occurs when the saw jumps back toward the operator while
cutting. You really do want to avoid this because it can be the
source of serious personal injury. It can leave you looking like the
victim in one of those chainsaw horror movies. So, you need to make
sure that the parts of the chain designed to prevent kickback are in
good shape. This will be discussed more later on.
Chain
pitch is half of the distance measured between the centers of any
three consecutive rivets in the chain. Pitches come in sizes ranging
from 0.25 to 0.75 inches for standard size chains. You need to know
this when shopping for a new chain. The chain may also include bumper
tie straps, bumper links and ramped depth gauges (on the cutters).
These prevent kickback, and if your old chain has them, make sure
your new one does too - this is very important. You also need to know
the size number of the of the chain, this is usually stamped on the
side of the chain’s drive links (the drive links sort of look like
shark‘s teeth and are on the bottom side of the chain). The pitch
and size number correspond. You should also know the gauge of the
chain. This is the thickness of the drive link and determines how
well the chain fits into the guide bar (that big flat bar the chain
rides on).