With Spring in the air, homeowners across the United States are getting their chainsaws out. Now is the perfect time to cut down unsightly trees or dead branches. Some chainsaw enthusiasts like to make firewood for those chilly Spring evenings.
Unfortunately, many homeowners do not properly maintain their chainsaws. These individuals are left behind as millions begin the lawn care season.
Read on to learn 5 chainsaw maintenance tips that every owner should know. Explore these simple maintenance tasks that are sure to extend the service life of your chainsaw and keep you safe while using it.
1. Sharpen the Chain
One of the most common chainsaw maintenance actions is to sharpen the chain. There are a few signs that you need to sharpen the chain.
The most obvious symptom is that your chainsaw is not cutting well. Another common sign is that the chainsaw is producing sawdust or a curved cut.
So what do you need to sharpen your chainsaw? The only tools you need are a round chainsaw file and a vice to lock it in place.
Sharpening the chain is a manual process. You will hand sharpen each of the individual cutting teeth one at a time.
2. Replace the Fuel Filter
A long lasting engine requires clean fuel mixed to the correct ratio. Fuel filters clog up over time and are unable to prevent harmful particles from penetrating the engine.
You can find the filter at the end of the fuel line. To save money, some owners try to clean the filter using a solvent. However, fuel filters are cheap and easy to replace.
3. Replace the Spark Plug
If your chainsaw is not starting, the spark plug may be the reason why. Spark plugs are designed to ignite the engine.
You can visibly see that a spark plug needs replacement when there is black build-up at the end of the plug. The only tool you need to perform this maintenance task is a plug socket. One helpful recommendation for chainsaw owners is to avoid over tightening the plug.
4. Lubricate the Engine
This is another maintenance action that ensures engine reliability. Lubricating the engine is as simple as adding oil to the fuel mixture.
Here is where the chainsaw maintenance manual comes into play. You need to know the right ratio of oil to fuel.
Take particular caution when purchasing TC-W3 oil that is sold commercially. Some owners buy this as a short-term lubricant solution; however, it is geared more towards water-cooled engines. Using this type of oil could cause long-term engine damage.
5. Clear the Chainsaw of Debris
This is as simple as it gets but goes a long way in terms of chainsaw durability. Failing to clear debris will eventually cause big issues.
First, you should check the chainsaw bar and the cooling fins. Also, inspect the flywheel fins for debris to ensure the engine is able to cool properly.
Chainsaw Maintenance – Wrapping It Up
Make sure you are ready for your spring cleanup by emphasizing chainsaw maintenance. Quick and easy actions will help your chainsaw operate smoothly and last longer.
Maintenance tasks like adding lubricant and replacing the fuel filter are effective. If you enjoyed this article about chainsaws, make sure to check out our website for other great pieces about polesaws and log splitters.
