5 Expert Chainsaw Maintenance Tips. Proper chainsaw tension

Expert Chainsaw Maintenance Tips

Chainsaws are extremely useful – when they’re working properly. Here are five important maintenance tips to keep your chainsaw operating at peak performance.

Keep the chain sharp

Anyone who has tried forcing a dull chain through wood knows the importance of a sharp chain. Properly sharpening a chain is an art form best performed by a professional, which will cost you a little money, but can save you a ton of grief.

However, if you’re up for the challenge of learning to sharpen chains, be sure to…

• Use the proper file size, which can be identified on the box the chain came in or in your owner’s manual.
• File at the correct angle. Purchase a file gauge to ensure you hold the file correctly.
• File each tooth the same, typically three to six strokes.
• Pay attention to depth gauges, which are the protrusions directly in front of each tooth. If you file too much, the saw can bite too deeply and stall, or even pull you off balance.

Again, using a file gauge will ensure you are sharpening correctly.

Properly tension the chain

A chain that’s too tight can bind and stall the saw. On a non-roller-tip bar, an over-tightened chain can overheat. When adjusting the chain, hold the tip of the bar up as far as it goes and tighten the tensioning screw until you’ve taken the slack out of the underside of the bar.

Use AMSOIL Bar Chain Oil to ensure that the chain stays properly lubricated during operation, which reduces friction and heat.

Break in a new chain

When replacing the chain, break it in by performing the following tasks:

• Soak it in AMSOIL Bar Chain Oil for a couple of hours. This ensures all the pivot points are well lubricated.
• Hang the chain from a nail and let the excess oil drip back into the pan.
• Install and tension the chain and run until warm; the chain will loosen as it heats up.
• Tension the chain again, while it’s powered off and still warm.
• Perform light-duty work, like cutting limbs and small branches for 30 minutes.
• Tension the chain again, and you’re ready to dive into heavy-duty work.

Clean the air filter

Keeping the air filter clean is one of the most important parts of chainsaw maintenance to extend saw life and increase performance.

It’s the only line of defense against the engine ingesting sawdust and dirt, which can plug the carburetor and cause the saw to start hard and run poorly. Contaminants can also wreck the piston rings, causing the engine to lose compression, reducing power.

Many saws have a screen as opposed to a foam or paper filter. In these cases, use an air compressor to direct air through the filter backward to prevent lodging debris deeper into the media.

If you don’t have an air compressor, tap the filter on the edge of a workbench. If you have a foam or paper filter, replace it often – it’s far less expensive than replacing the entire saw.

Use fresh gasoline

Most homeowners’ chainsaws spend far more time sitting in the garage than cutting wood. Unfortunately, gasoline starts breaking down in as little as 30 days, creating gums and varnish that can plug carburetors and lead to hard starts and rough running.

It is best to mix only enough fuel for the job at hand. If your chainsaw will sit for more than 30 days, be sure to use a two-stoke oil formulated with a gasoline stabilizer, such as AMSOIL SABER Professional Synthetic 2-Stroke Oil.

Not only is SABER Professional formulated with fuel stabilizer, but it also fights carbon to keep exhaust ports and spark-arrestor screens clean for maximum engine operability and power.

Using a premium two-stroke oil is an overlooked, but vital, part of chainsaw maintenance.

You can also stabilize fuel by adding AMSOIL Quickshot Both products keep gas fresh for up to six months!

Chainsaw Tension Screw Not Working? Here’s What You Need to Do

The tension screw on the chainsaw can sometimes malfunction and cause difficulty in loosening or tightening the chain tension as required.

The most common reasons behind your chainsaw tension screw not working like usual are:

• Faulty or damaged tension screw
• Incorrect set up of the tension screw
• When the chainsaw is frequently exposed to aggressive or abusive cutting jobs
• Overtime internal parts including tensioner screw can malfunction

Keep reading the following article to learn what to do when the chainsaw tension screw not working properly.

Why is My Chainsaw Tension Screw Not Working?

It is another common complaint against any modern chainsaw regardless of the brand.

You might occasionally notice that when you try to turn the tension screw on your chainsaw to adjust the bar or to tension the chain, the screw won’t work.

HAISHINE Pack of 2 Chain Adjuster Tensioner Screw for Husqvarna 42 44 50 51 55 Rancher 234 238 242 246 133 444 Chainsaw 501537101, 501 54 63 01

It might occur because the tension screw is faulty or damaged which mostly happens if your chainsaw has been exposed to aggressive cutting projects regularly for a long time.

Remember, internal elements or parts of the chainsaw, including tensioning screws, can turn bad due to overuse. Especially if you are a reckless user and do not perform regular maintenance of your chainsaw accordingly, such commotion will arise soon.

Another common scenario is where users sometimes notice tension screw clicking while rotating that screw. That is another sign that the screw is either damaged or stripped.

Over time the chainsaw and its major components turn older and rot. So, that will also result in the tension screw deteriorating.

A chainsaw can accidentally hit a stone, nail, rock, or other similar objects on the way, and these external objects can break some teeth on your chainsaw. It is another typical reason why chainsaw sometimes starts cutting in a curve.

Replace the Chainsaw Tension Screw with Just 7 Simple Steps:

If your chainsaw tension screw is not working, replacing it is the only effective solution to fix this trouble. Here are the 7 simple steps to replace the existing tension screw quickly.

So, read and follow the instructions thoroughly without skipping any details:

Tools Needed to Replace Your Chainsaw Tension Screw:

Tools

New Tension Screw

A Bar Wrench

A Screwdriver

A Pair of Pliers

Pair of Protective googles Safety Gloves

Step 1- Make sure your chainsaw has cooled off to Remove the top cover:

Before starting the procedures, ensure that the engine of your chainsaw has cooled down properly.

Next, release the top clips securely holding your chainsaw’s top cover to lift the top cover off.

Step 2- Detach the wire boot from the spark plug:

Now disconnect the wire and boot from the spark plug to prevent your chainsaw from accidentally starting during the replacement task.

Step 3- Remove the clutch cover tension bracket screw:

First, use a wrench or screwdriver to loosen the nuts that securely hold the clutch cover and remove them.

Carefully pull the clutch cover off and put it on a sturdy surface.

Step 4- Lift the Adjustment Assembly out of the way:

Now you can see the tension bracket screw there, so use a screwdriver to remove the bracket screw.

Next, carefully lift the adjustment assembly out.

Step 5- Remove the old tension screw install the new one:

Use a pair of pliers to lift out the old tension screw.

Then, bring the new Tension Screw and insert it into the cover.

Step 6- Reinstall the Assembly Clutch Cover Securely:

Ensure the bracket is in place before reinstalling the adjustment assembly in that clutch cover.

Now, secure that assembly with the screw and reinsert the clutch cover on your chainsaw.

While you are still on this, you can also replace the clutch cover if the Clutch Cover looks cracked, deteriorated, or damaged.

Step 7- Align the tensioner to put everything else back together:

Rotate the tension adjustment screw counterclockwise to align the tensioner with the clutch cover in place.

Then, reinsert the nuts and hand-tighten them first.

Now lift the bar and rotate the adjusting screw clockwise until there is no slack remaining in the chain.

When the adjustment is done the chain bar will look like this and use the wrench to tighten those nuts fully.

Also, confirm that the chain is tight.

Then, attach the wire and boot to the spark plug. After that, realign the top cover and secure it with the top clips.

Why Causes the Chain on my Chainsaw Stretch so Fast?

Sometimes users notice that the chain on their chainsaws suddenly starts to stretch too fast, and there’s a reason behind this commotion.

Mainly chain stretching issue arises due to extremely generated friction during cutting the wood turns the chain on your chainsaw superheated. This additional heat gradually causes the chain to loosen up faster than usual.

This generated heat also expands the chain guide bar, and as it cools off, the chain turns stretched. The chain can also stretch when it eventually wears down due to aggressive use or overuse.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Why the chain on my chainsaw fails to tighten?

Mostly you will encounter such a commotion due to excess built-up debris around the chain bar and worn or bent bar on your chainsaw.A similar problem will also arise if the chain oiler on your chainsaw is not in proper order or if there are some broken teeth on the chain.

What causing the chain on my chainsaw keep going loose?

This mostly happens when the axle or chain tensioning bolts have come loose and are not tight enough. Besides that, the chain can also keep coming loose due to worn teeth on either the front or rear sprocket (or on both sprockets).

How often should I tighten my chainsaw’s chain?

It will depend on how frequently you use the chainsaw. But if you use the chainsaw for a typical afternoon cutting session, tighten the chain at least 2 or 3 times.

Final Verdict

While using any modern chainsaw, users can sometimes witness a situation where they will notice that no matter whether they try to loosen or tighten the chain tension adjuster screw, the screw will not rotate or work.

Fortunately, there’s no need to get panic as soon you encounter such a situation because the easiest solution to fixing this problem is replacing the tension screw, and the replacement procedure is simpler too.

All you have to do is, follow the earlier discussed instructions thoroughly.

Oregon 3-Pack S56 AdvanceCut Chainsaw Chains for 16-Inch Bar.56 Drive Links – low-kickback chain fits Husqvarna, Echo, Poulan, Wen and more

ENGINERUN Chainsaw Chain Tensioner Adjuster Screw Assembly Compatible with STIHL MS271 MS291 MS311 MS391 029 039 Replaces OEM Parts 1127-007-1003, 1127-640-1900, 1123-664-1400, 1127-664-2200

How Tight Should A Chainsaw Blade Be? A Comprehensive Guide

Chainsaw chain tension is a crucial factor that significantly impacts your tool’s performance. Experts suggest regularly inspecting the chainsaw chain tension, especially before getting to work. But, when it comes to getting the right chainsaw chain tension, many of the chainsaw operators, whether green or experienced, got confused about how tight should a chainsaw blade be. It is so, as there is a narrow zone where the chain is neither too loose nor too tight!

To chainsaw the chainsaw chain’s tension, grab the chain’s drive links and try to pull the drive links out of the chainsaw bar nose. If the links come out easily, the chainsaw chain is loose. But, if you cannot pull them out, the chainsaw is too tight. Adjust the chainsaw chain tension and pull out the drive links again. For now, the drive links are snug but not too tight. Congrats! You have got the ideal chainsaw chain tension!

Does understanding how tight should a chainsaw blade be challenging to you? If yes, then worry not. This guide will provide a satisfactory answer to your queries regarding the chain tightness in your mind. So, let’s begin!

How Tight Should A Chainsaw Blade Be?

The short and quick answer to your query, “how tight should a chainsaw blade be” is it should be snap-tight! So, per the expert’s opinion, you can pull out the snap-tight chain till the partial exposure of drive links, but you cannot take it out of the guide bar!

Remember that the chain’s tension is critical in ensuring your tool’s optimum performance. So, whenever you are cutting the wood or planning to fall the trees, ensure that the chainsaw chain is tight enough to split the wood without moving the chain up or down on the chainsaw guide bar!

Whenever you feel that the chainsaw chain can wiggle to the side, you must tighten it up without wasting another second. The loose chainsaw chain can cause the kickbacks, or it is also possible the chainsaw chain may be thrown away off the guide bar!

But, if the chainsaw chain is too tight, it will not easily revolve on the chainsaw guide bar. The tight chain prevents the chainsaw from turning and can heat up easily! The hot chainsaw is not at risk of fire and reduces the chainsaw’s life!

So, always keep the chainsaw chain tight enough or snap tight to ensure the optimum and efficient performance of the chainsaw chain!

How Can You Test The Tension Of Chainsaw Chain?

The following are two different tests you can use for testing the chainsaw chain’s tension:

i. Test The Tension Of the Chainsaw Chain With a Snap Test

The snap test is a reliable way to check the chainsaw chain’s tension. To perform this test, you must pull the chainsaw chain away from the chain bar. Then, release the chain and carefully observe whether it snaps back into its place. If the chainsaw snags snugly back at its position, it’s a clear sign of an ideal chainsaw chain tension.

But, if you cannot pull away the chainsaw chain from the chainsaw bar, it means the chain is tight. It is loose if the chainsaw chain goes limp when you pull it. So, you need to adjust the chainsaw chain tension in both situations!

ii. Test The Tension Of the Chainsaw Chain With Pull Test

The pull test is pretty simple and easy to perform. To perform this test, gently pull the chainsaw chain away from the chainsaw bar. It would help if you pulled the chainsaw chain as far as possible without losing the grip of your fingers.

• When you partially pull the chainsaw chain and see the drive links out of the bar groove, it signifies a loose chainsaw chain.
• But, if the ends of the drive links remain inside the chainsaw bar groove when you pull the chain, it shows that the chainsaw chain is tight!

Adjust the tension if you find whether the chainsaw chain is either tight or loose. But, if you don’t know how to adjust the tension of the chainsaw chain, we have covered you. Below you can find how to tighten the chainsaw chain!

How Can You Tighten The Chainsaw Chain?

If cutting the wood, give your tool some time and let it cool. The temperature of the chainsaw will get normal in a couple of minutes. You can tighten a chainsaw chain when it is hot. But, when the chainsaw gets cool, it will get tight, and you will face difficulty moving the chainsaw chain even with your hands.

It happens because the hot chainsaw chain is expanding and will contract on cooling! The tight chainsaw chain is not only difficult to move, but it will also stall the chainsaw engine at lower RPMs. Besides that, the chainsaw starts producing smoke and spark as chains face difficulty moving around the chainsaw bar. Consequently, it will burn the chainsaw guide bar and clutch and waste a lot of bar oil.

Now, as the chainsaw chain has been cool down, you can adjust the tension of the chainsaw chain. For this purpose, place you need to place the chainsaw chain on a hard surface, and you need a combination wrench which you may also know as the scrench, and follow the given steps:

Step 1:

Place the chainsaw chain on the working surface or table and locate the chainsaw chain tension adjustment screw. You can find the adjustment screw between the guide bar and the inside bucking teeth. You will get it between the bar nuts on the side cover or the outboard if it is not there.

The modern chainsaws designed for homeowners have side-mounted tension adjustment, which is easier to use!

Step 2:

As you have located the chainsaw tension adjustment screw in the last step, check if you can find the head. If you cannot find it, remove the brush, and wipe the dirt and grime from the clutch cover. Next, loosen the two bar nuts at the clutch cover so you can adjust the chain tension.

If you don’t loosen the nuts, it can destroy the threads on the tensioning pin. Also, it can damage the chainsaw bar. So, no need to take off the nuts, you have to loosen them, and you can move the chainsaw bar up and down by holding the nose. Also, don’t forget to deactivate the chainsaw brake before moving to the next step.

Step 3:

Before adjusting the chainsaw tension, you must hold the chainsaw bar from its nose. If you are asking the reason for doing so, you are making sure that the chainsaw will not lose tension when cutting the wood. Think of the side of the chainsaw bar you use while cutting the wood. Yes, it’s the bottom side.

The guide bar of the chainsaw rises and pivots around the wood as you start cutting the wood with the chainsaw. The tension of the chainsaw changes because of this upward movement. It happens regardless of how tight your chainsaw chain is!

But, to reduce the chances of this happening, you must hold the chainsaw bar from its nose when adjusting the chainsaw tension. So this way, you are ensuring that the chainsaw chain tension will remain steady while you work.

Note: This problem happens more commonly with the chainsaw having longer bars. Therefore, you are using a large chainsaw and must follow this step!

Step 4:

You can turn the adjustment screw to increase or decrease the chain tension. For this purpose, you can also use the screwdriver end of the scrench. Under the clutch cover, you can find the guided pin. It can fit into the designated hole of the guide bar, which you can find next to the oiler holes.

Also, on the guide bar, you can find a slot supported by two bar studs at the powerhead. The slot helps the guide bar move forward and backward when you move the chainsaw chain tension adjustment pin around.

When you let the bar move away from the power head or outward, you increase the chainsaw chain tension. Similarly, when the chainsaw bar moves inward, it decreases the chainsaw tension.

Remember that changing the chainsaw chain tension adjustment screw clockwise will increase the chain tension. While turning the screw counterclockwise, you can decrease the chainsaw chain tension.

Make the quarter or half-turn on the screw. You must fully turn the screw and get the proper chain tension to operate a brand-new chainsaw. If you want to make quick adjustments, a couple of quarters would be enough.

Step 5:

Once you feel that the chainsaw chain is snug and tight, you can test the chainsaw chain’s tension with your fingers. To test the tension, give a light tug to the chainsaw chain loop with the help of your index finger and thumb.

Now, check if the chain snaps back easily. Do this test with the middle of the chainsaw chain loop, and never tug near the bar nose or clutch cover. It is because; the chain is closer to these two points.

The other way which can tell you about the chainsaw chain is the three-quarter rule. You can see the drive links on the chainsaw chain fitted inside the chainsaw bar grooves. Now, tug the chainsaw chain in the middle with your fingers, and if only ¾ of each groove is exposed outside the chainsaw bar groove, it shows the chain has the ideal tension.

But, if you notice that the drive links are detached from the inner side of the rails of the chainsaw bar, it is not a good sign. Using the chainsaw in this condition can be dangerous. You can also move the chainsaw chain around the guide bar to check its tension with your hands.

The chain will move smoothly, and you will not have to apply much force if the chainsaw chain is tensioned properly. The loose chainsaw can easily flop around the chainsaw bar grooves, and a tight chain is not easier to move.

Never rotate the chainsaw chain in the reverse direction. It can jam the sprocket, or it is also possible that you may cut your fingers. Always rotate the chain away from the powerhead at the top of the chainsaw bar and into the powerhead at the bottom!

Step 6:

You have properly adjusted the chainsaw chain tension and now have to adjust the bar nuts. While doing so, don’t forget to hold up the chainsaw bar nose like you have been holding in the last steps.

With the wrench side of the scrench, tighten up the guide bar nuts over the clutch cover. That’s it, and your chainsaw is ready to work as you have set the chainsaw chain tension at the ideal position!

How To Tight Husqvarna Chainsaw Blade?

To tighten the chainsaw chain of your Husqvarna chainsaw, follow the given steps:

• To adjust the chainsaw chain tension, disengage the brakes you can find on the side panel.
• Now, lose the bar nuts with the help of a combination spanner.
• When tightening the chainsaw chain, raise the tip of the guide bar. To make the chainsaw tight, turn the screws clockwise until the chain stops stacking.
• With both hands, pull out the chainsaw chain freely. If you face any issues while doing so or feel that the chain slacks below the guide bar, you can adjust the chain’s tension manually.
• Adjust the chainsaw chain tension till you don’t achieve a good pull. But, never over-tight the chainsaw chain, as it can damage your tool.

How the Pro’s sharpen a chainsaw

How To Tight STIHL Chainsaw Blade?

So, if you have a STIHL chainsaw and you are looking for a procedure to adjust the chain’s tension, here is how you can get it done:

• Disengage the chain brakes, which you can find on the side panel. Loosen the nuts which support the sprocket and continue the process till your nuts don’t wiggle. Never force the nuts, as it can damage the sprockets.
• Now, pick up the screwdriver and fix the chainsaw chain tension adjustment screw. But don’t forget to lift the chainsaw bar with one hand.
• Check the chainsaw guide bar if you don’t get where the chainsaw chain tensioner is. You can find it just a few inches away from the sprocket’s nuts.
• To tighten a chainsaw chain, rest the chain again on the lower side of your tool and tighten it till you don’t get the needed results!

How To Tight Poulan Chainsaw Blade?

If you need to tighten the chainsaw blade of your Poulan chainsaw, you will need a flat-head screwdriver and a half-inch socket wrench. Follow the below-given steps and get it done:

• With the socket wrench, lose the side panel; this way, you will get more space for the needed adjustments.
• When adjusting the tension screw, you can use the flat-head screwdriver to prevent the chainsaw chain from coming off!

How To Tight Craftsman Chainsaw Blade?

If you are facing difficulty cutting the wood, it could be due to the incorrect chainsaw chain tension. So, here is the way to get the right chainsaw chain tension. But before you tighten the chainsaw chain, don’t forget to check the user’s manual.

• Place the chainsaw on the working table so the blade and chain should be positioned towards you.
• You can find the tension screw of your tool on the right side of the chainsaw blade. Insert the multi-tool into the panel nuts and raise the chainsaw bar’s tip with your other hand.
• Pull the chainsaw chain around the blade. Now, adjust the traction with the chainsaw multi-tool gear until you get the correct chain tension.
• If the chain snugly fits around the blade, it means you have got the right chainsaw chain tension.

How To Tighten The Chain Of An Electric Chainsaw?

Do you know how to tighten the chain on an electric chainsaw? If no, then follow the under-given steps to tighten the chainsaw chain of your electric chainsaw:

• Start the procedure by losing the guide bar nuts on the blade arm of the chainsaw, and It will create space for the adjustments.
• In the case of the advance electric chainsaw, you can find the brakes on the guide bar panel; don’t forget to unlock it before you start working!
• If the chainsaw chain is loose as it comes off frequently, you can use the tool to rotate the screw till you don’t get the required chainsaw chain tension. The adjustment tool is fine for this job, but it would be better if you found the perfect tool for doing this job!
• Lastly, check the tightness. Secure the guide bar and panels if you have the required chainsaw chain tension!

Why Is It So Crucial To Have A Perfectly Fitted Chainsaw Chain?

The chainsaw chain is an important part of the chainsaw, which is directly involved in the cutting process. Therefore, it is crucial to keep the chainsaw chain sharp and tight enough so that your chainsaw can work efficiently!

The dull chainsaw will not let you cut efficiently. A loose chainsaw chain will fall off the bar, while a tight chain does not spin properly, so how can it cut? Also, the too-tight chainsaw chain will put a lot of stress on the chainsaw chain!

To make it clear why it is crucial to have a properly tensioned chainsaw chain is so important, here are the dangers of using the chainsaw chain at improper tension:

i. Loose Chain Of Chainsaw

A loose chainsaw chain will slip off the bar, but have you ever imagined what could happen? The chainsaw chain can cut the hands, arms, face, or other body parts of the operator or the other persons standing around.

Besides that, the loose chain results in diagonal cuts. While cutting with a loose chainsaw chain, you must force the chainsaw using your body weight, which can bend the chainsaw guide bar.

The other you may face is the speed of the chainsaw chain, which can exceed more than 60 feet/per second. So, if you accidentally hit the chain at this high speed, it can hurt you, cut your finger, or leave you with scars on your face!

You should also know how loose should a chainsaw chain be. The chainsaw should be able to move freely over the chainsaw bar. Remember that the tight chain would also be dangerous to operate!

So, from now on, you must check the chainsaw chain’s tightness before you start working with the help of any of the tests mentioned above. If the chain is loose, tighten it before starting your work! Do you know how to take a link out of a chainsaw chain? You can remove the links to make the chainsaw chain short and tight!

ii. Tight Chain Of Chainsaw

Should a chainsaw chain be tight? Will it be dangerous? So, these are the next questions popping up in your mind. Firstly, a tight chainsaw chain can harm the chainsaw motor badly. Also, the chainsaw can get hot and may catch fire. Unfortunately, if this happens, the consequences would not be imaginable!

If the chainsaw chain has too much tension, it can also harm you. As you can see, the chainsaw chain is a loop of metal links that spins around the oval guide bar. When the chain spins at the highest speed, the centrifugal force and rotational inertia come into play and can change the oval shape of the chainsaw bar into a circle.

It applies the stress at two different points on both sides of the chainsaw bar. The chainsaw will feel pressure at the back of the drive sprockets and the front side of the nose sprockets, which is the chainsaw bar tip. This stress can bring premature wear, and you are at a higher risk of snapping out the chainsaw chain. Also, it will affect the bar rails significantly.

The tight chain also consumes more bar oil. Also, the higher tension of the chainsaw chain can damage the clutch and bearings as you start operating the tool. S, you must keep the chainsaw chain at the ideal tension for the optimal performance of the chainsaw!

Remember, the perfect chainsaw chain tension is not a point where the chain would not leave the guide bar or look too tight. So, carefully inspect the tightness and sharpness of the chainsaw chain before you start splitting the wood. It is a great way to ensure the safe working of your tool!

How Often Should I Tighten The Chainsaw Chain?

When you buy a new chainsaw, it has a “break-in” period. During this period, you need to sharpen the chainsaw chain frequently compared to other chainsaw chains you have used for a long time. Now, if you are thinking, why is it so? A new chainsaw chain needs to be tightened more often, which may sound unusual to you.

The frictional resistance between the chain links is greater during the break-in period. Also, at the time, all the moving parts have to bed in yet. Therefore, the experts suggest not using the chainsaw at higher RPMs, as it can break down the chainsaw chain badly. The break-in period lasts for 5 to 15 tank fillings for all the gas-operated chainsaws!

Besides, you must loosen the chainsaw chain after finishing the wood cutting. It is necessary because the chainsaw chain will not grip the guide bar tightly after getting cool.

How-To Properly Adjust The Chain Tension On Your Chainsaw. Video

The other benefit you get from decreasing the chainsaw chain tension is that it will be beneficial for the clutch and bearings next time when you will operate the chainsaw chain. So, loosen the chainsaw chain after each cutting session to extend the life span of the sprocket, chainsaw chain, and guide bar of your tool!

What Are The Common Chainsaw Chain Issues?

The following are the common chainsaw chain issues that you may face while working:

i. The Chainsaw Chain Comes Off Frequently

If the chainsaw comes off easily while you are working, the slack chainsaw chain tension could be the cause. The other reason here could be the damaged drive sprockets. When the drive sprockets get damaged, they lose the ability to hold the chainsaw chain tight!

The same issue can happen due to damaged heels. When the bar heels get damaged, the distance that which chainsaw chain covers increases, and the chainsaw start jumping frequently!

ii. The Chainsaw Chain Keeps On Jamming

If the chainsaw chain is jamming, there are so many causes because of which this problem is occurring. For instance, you have started the chainsaw engine, but it fails to disengage the chain. Resultantly, you will have to start the chainsaw again.

You can adjust the tension screws to get the needed tension. Because the chainsaw chain is tight, adjust the screw and loosen it!

Why The Chainsaw Chain Keeps Coming Loose: Find The Reasons

Suppose you just set the tension of the chainsaw chain, but it again becomes loose after a few minutes. Do you know why does chain keep coming off the chainsaw? Now, what will you do?

Here, you should first find the cause of this issue. Take off the clutch cover and inspect if the guide bar has been seated properly over the adjustment pin. The other thing you need to check is the threads on the chainsaw bar studs. Many times they get damaged and make the chainsaw chain lose. The damaged threads on the bolts can change the tightness of the chainsaw chain drastically, even in the middle of the work.

Also, check the chainsaw chain tensioner pin. It can slide around the tab. S, ensure that the pin is away from the powerhead when turning the screw in a clockwise direction. The pin will move towards the powerhead when you move the chainsaw chain in the counterclockwise direction.

If you feel that the pin is either moving oppositely or is not moving at all, then you must change the tensioner mechanism as it has been damaged completely. You can do this repair yourself or get help from a professional. So, to keep yourself safe while you are working, find the causes of the chain that keeps coming loose on the chainsaw and fix it on a priority basis!

Why Chainsaw Chain Gets Tighten On Its Own?

If you feel that the chainsaw chain is getting tight, you need to lubricate the chainsaw bar and chain. To find the real cause, you need to check the oiler holes and ensure they are not clogged.

If the oiler holes are clean, then check the bar oil tank. The debris can affect the oil flow from the chainsaw fuel tank to the pump. But, if you find the clean chainsaw oil tank, the oiler pump could be the culprit.

The other cause of this issue can be the faulty drive sprocket. You must change the sprocket after every two chainsaw replacements for a chainsaw’s safe and efficient working!

How Can You Tell If The Chainsaw Has Wrong Tension?

So, if you don’t know how to tell whether your chainsaw chain is tight or has the wrong tension, the following are the few symptoms that clearly show you need to adjust the chainsaw chain tension. So, let’s find out them all here:

• In case of the wrong chainsaw chain tension, the chainsaw links will disengage from the guide rail, which happens when the chainsaw chain is loose. If the drive links of the chainsaw chain stick in the bar, it means you have the chainsaw chain too tight.
• Derailing is another sign that clearly shows the wrong chainsaw chain tension. If the chainsaw chain spins on the guideway, it can derail the chain. Operating at high speed and chainsaw derails can lead to severe accidents.
• The diagonal cuts show you need to tighten the chainsaw chain as it has become loose. It will bend the chainsaw bar if you don’t fix the issue.
• The loose chainsaw chain also causes snapping and can damage the guide rails.
• The incorrect pull or oiler pump problems will increase bar oil consumption.
• The tight chainsaw chain will stress the chainsaw bar nose and drive sprockets. Consequently, they will wear out earlier!

How Tight Should A Chainsaw Blade Be: Frequently Asked Question

Can You Over-Tighten The Chainsaw Chain?

You can find the tension screw at the base of the chainsaw bar; turn this screw clockwise to tighten the chainsaw chain. If you want to loosen the chainsaw chain, turn the screw in a counterclockwise direction. Never over-tight the chainsaw chain, as it can damage the tool!

How Will Tight Be Too Tight For My Chainsaw?

With the right tightness, you can move the chainsaw chain just half an inch. If the chain is loose, tighten it. But, if you face difficulty moving the chainsaw chain, you must lose it!

Is Tight Chain Better?

The tight chainsaw chain increases friction, which increases power loss and damages the tool. Suppose the suspension bottoms over the bump when the chainsaw is tight; then, the chain may break up!

How Much Is Slack In Chainsaw Chain?

The chainsaw chain with the right tension would be a little loose and will be tight enough that you cannot pull out the drive links from the chainsaw bar nose.

Do Chainsaw Chains Stretch?

Yes, the chainsaw chains stretch. If the chainsaw chain stretches a lot, it happens due to the tension and extreme friction it faces. The friction makes the chainsaw hot, which, as a result, loosens the chainsaw chain.

Which Way To Install Chainsaw Chain?

When putting on a chainsaw chain, ensure that the pointy edge of the blade teeth should be facing toward the way the chainsaw bald is moving. The point edges will rotate on the top of the guide bar, away from the chainsaw’s body and towards the bar’s tip!

Conclusion: How Tight Should A Chainsaw Blade Be

The incorrectly tensioned chainsaw chain can badly affect the performance of your chainsaw. The chain either comes out or causes the kickbacks, or your chainsaw can heat up. So, how tight should a chainsaw blade be? It is a frequently asked question, but many chainsaw owners don’t know the right answer.

Grab the chainsaw chain’s drive links and pull them out of the chainsaw bar’s nose. If you cannot pull the links, the chain is tight. But, if the chain came out easily, it shows that the chainsaw chain is loose.

To get the right chainsaw chain tension, adjust the tension screw per the needs and pull out the drive links again. Now, if the chain’s drive links are snug but not tight, you have the ideal chainsaw chain tension!

How Tight Should a Chainsaw Chain Be?

There’s a vast range of chainsaws on the market, whether you simply need to cut firewood or are embarking on a bigger and tougher job. Indeed, there’s a chainsaw out there to suit practically any need.

However, regardless of what the chainsaw’s being used for, specific safety requirements must be met.

The dangers of using a chainsaw must be understood taken seriously to avoid incident and injury.

Proper chainsaw tension is vital!

Chainsaws might seem indestructible. However, they can get damaged if the user doesn’t understand the answers to basic questions like “Can chainsaws get wet?“ or “Can chainsaws cut through metal?“.

As such, they require regular servicing to guarantee their efficiency. (For more on proper chainsaw maintenance, see our tips for sharpening chainsaw blades.)

Without the proper maintenance, they can become a ticking time bomb waiting for the opportune moment to injure the user.

Nonetheless, unless you’re a frequent user, you might have some questions when it comes to using a chainsaw properly. For instance, how tight should a chainsaw chain be?

Chainsaw chains are bound to stretch and become loose with time. If not maintained properly, they can come off the bar and create an unsafe condition for the user.

So each time you use a chainsaw, it’s important to ensure it has the appropriate tension.

Chainsaw chain tension should be checked and tightened often. So how tight should a chainsaw chain be?

Correct chainsaw chain tension

A properly stretched chainsaw chain should be a little loose on the guide bar — but not so loose that you can pull the drive links out of the bar nose.

Therefore, to ascertain whether or not it needs to be adjusted, pull the chain slightly away from the guide bar to see if the drive links remain engaged or not.

If they are disengaged, then this means it’s time to tighten it up. Chains can be overtightened too, and therefore the appropriate tension should allow a little play; fastening it too tightly risks breaking it during operation.

How to tighten a chainsaw chain

Most chainsaws come with “wrenches” or screwdrivers that match their side plate nuts and tension adjustment screw sizes.

Nevertheless, it’s important to do each step carefully and correctly for best results. So how exactly do you go about tightening a chainsaw chain?

Loosen the nuts on the guide bar side panel

To adjust correctly, the chain and the guide bar need a little spacing. By loosening the nuts, therefore, it will be simpler to fix it.

However, some chainsaws may have their brakes attached directly to the side panel. Thus, you’ll want to ensure you unlock the brakes before removing the side panel.

Adjust the tensioning screw

When using your chainsaw, check the chain to see that it has the correct tension. If not, adjust the tensioning screw as needed.

At the same time, know that tightening it will consequently fasten the chain, and vice versa.

Fasten the guide bar nuts

It is essential to raise the nose of the chainsaw to tighten the nuts; this will secure the guide bar and side panel.

It’s just that easy, and your chainsaw chain is now correctly tensioned.

For anyone with a lot of wood-cutting jobs to do, a chainsaw is an excellent investment. It can take the place of a much heavier axe, or supplant the price of a landscaper.

Maintaining the proper chain tension is therefore essential because it ensures your chainsaw is safe to use and will last for years to come.

What chainsaw should I buy?

Now that you know a little more about taking proper care of a chainsaw, you may feel ready to invest. If a small, lightweight chainsaw is what you have in mind, check out our picks for the best small gas-powered chainsaws on the market.

Or, if you’re still in the beginning phases of choosing a chainsaw, learn about the best overall chainsaw brands so you can make an informed decision.