Installing A Chain On A Chainsaw
Chain tension
To check the tension, you must first release the brake. Then pull off the chain in the middle of the headset, normally the shanks should not protrude more than 2/3 of the height. It is recommended to scroll it manually. do not jam and slip too fast. If necessary, tighten the nut on the protective cap.
Figure 5. Checking the chain tension
Installing and checking the chain tension on the bar is an important process in the operation of any chainsaw. The work is easy to do yourself. Regular tool maintenance prevents injury and reduced productivity, even when working with dense woods.
Why does the chain come off
Many, even the most experienced users of chainsaws, have encountered in their life a situation where the chain jumped off the guide bar during operation. The most common cause is insufficient chain tension or wear.
In 80% of cases, the stretched chain links slip from the teeth of the drive sprocket, and it flies out from the guide under the action of centrifugal force. Although sometimes the problem appears due to the incorrect position of the sprocket relative to the axis of rotation or a loose saw bar on the chainsaw.
How to tighten: installing a chainsaw cutter
We dismantled the main reasons for the chain sagging. How to install a chain on a chainsaw, described in the paragraph above. Now you need to properly tighten the chain and check if it is pulled.
Step-by-step installation algorithm
Not all modern chainsaws are equipped with a setting wheel, which greatly simplifies the procedure for installing the saw blade. Systems with a setting wheel are generally a rarity among household chainsaws. Therefore, it is very important to know the technology and sequence of installing the chain on a chainsaw.
Key points to pay attention to:
- Prepare a level surface on which you will assemble the chain and bar. This will minimize the chance of damage to the chainsaw or loss of small parts. A tire is laid out on the prepared surface and a parallel chain next to it.
- Remove the sprocket protection, on modern chainsaws it is enough to unscrew the wing nut, on older models, you may need a spanner wrench of the appropriate size.
- At the base of the guide bar, turn the sprocket all the way to the right. Only in this position is the chain installed.
- Then the chain is successively placed, link by link, on the fixing groove on the guide rail. Install the chain from the top of the guide, gradually turn it so that the bar is always on top, and the chain is on the bottom, this will allow it to always be taut and fit into the guide groove without problems. When doing this step, be sure to wear thick protective gloves, as your fingers will touch the cutting edge. Viewed from above, the cutter is always forward towards the end of the guide bar.
- Put both the tire and the chain on the drive sprocket.
- Secure the chain sprocket cover in place. Make sure all mounting pins line up with the holes. Incorrect installation with distortions or not completely can cause extraneous noise, rattling.
- Make sure that the guides "go" into the special mounting chute.
- After installation, check that the chain is secure on the chainsaw and on the bar. Everything must be securely fastened without backlash.
An important point is the degree of tension on the chain after installation. Setting the correct tension is easy and takes less than three minutes. First you need to loosen the nuts on the protective cover. Using the freely rotating adjusting screw, catch the correct tension so that the chain does not pull away from the edge of the guide bar more than 3-5 mm.
It remains only to tighten the nuts and check the tension. If correction is needed, adjust the tension again.
How to install the bar and chain on a chainsaw, see the following, which presents a clear algorithm of actions:
Circuit voltage
You can tighten the chain in two ways: fast and frontal. Best to stretch frontal path.
If you are holding the front stretch, then you need to unscrew the nuts holding the tire and lift it up along the edge. Using the special bolt on the right, you need to tighten the chain to get an acceptable stretch, and then raise the bar even higher and clamp it.
If you are using the quick stretch method, you first need to lift the wing nut handle and loosen it. Then tighten the chain tensioning screw clockwise until it stops. Then tighten the wing nut and lower the handle.
DIY chain shortening
Like any other part, the chainsaw chain gradually wears out, and constant loads and work in different temperature conditions lead to its lengthening. In this case, it is impossible to tighten it correctly; it periodically flies off the tire. Is it possible to repair such a part at home. As practice shows, this does not require special devices, skills or high qualifications. However, you should take care of the presence of a vice, file, hammer, pliers and breakdown.
If you have all these tools, you can safely start disassembling:
- Determine how much the chain length has increased;
- We fix the chain in a vice;
- With a file or a file we grind off the protruding heads of the rivets, while trying not to touch the lateral parts of the links;
- We dismantle the rivets using a breakdown or a squeeze clamp;
Chain adjustment distance
Important: when separating the links, be sure to count the guides on the inside. There must be a match between them and the leading asterisk.
- We remove the required number of links and connect the ends of the chain. For this we use old rivets;
- Flare the rivet heads with light hammer blows;
- Remove burrs and irregularities with a file or file;
How to properly put the chain and tire on the chainsaw: assembly
The procedure under consideration is quite simple. It is characterized by the following features:
- First, the chain brake is released.
- The tensioning screw is in close proximity to the tire.
- The next step is to pull the cutting element clockwise.
- If it becomes difficult to move the chain, then you have to loosen the fixing screw.
Modern designs of chainsaws greatly simplify the conduct of such work. Therefore, you can do it yourself, even in the absence of special tools.
Why the chain flies. find out the reasons
When considering how to install a chain on a chainsaw, you should also pay attention to what reasons lead to its collapse. There are three main reasons:
- Incorrect bus operation.
- Malfunction of the main elements.
- Poor drive sprocket retention.
- Strong chain elongation.
Each reason becomes the reason why quite a lot of difficulties arise with the use of a chainsaw.
Chainsaw functions and device
In order to understand the features of the procedure under consideration, the chainsaw device should also be considered in detail. Among the features, the following points can be noted:
- The main part is represented by the engine. In most cases, a single cylinder structure is installed, since this is quite enough for cutting.
- The piston system is two-stroke, and the cooling is air. During operation, a relatively small amount of thermal energy is released, so there is enough airflow to remove heat.
- As with many other designs, this one requires oil to ensure the smooth running of the moving element. The oil is added directly to the fuel. Depending on the design, oil and fuel are mixed in the range of 1:20 or 1:50.
- The air filter can also be called an important structural element. Fuel is mixed with air to form a specific mixture, which is fed into the combustion chamber. If you do not constantly clean the filter element, then there is a possibility that debris will fall into the cylinder block. This will cause rapid wear or even jamming of the device.
- A special design is presented as a starter, which is driven by a rope with a handle. If the rope is pulled strongly, then the flywheel is set in motion.
- The main operating mechanism is a splint with a buckle. It is designed to guide the chain and secure it.
- The classic chain consists of three teeth: leading, cutting, connecting. The fastening of the cutting edge is carried out using rivets.
A fairly common situation is the case when you have to pull the handle for a long time. It is due to the fact that the carburetor does not mix fuel with air correctly. In most cases, it is enough to configure the device in accordance with the operating characteristics. Your chainsaw won’t last long if you don’t provide proper maintenance.
How to put the chain on a chainsaw correctly
To perform a sufficiently large number of works, a chainsaw can be used. The main cutting element of such a tool is represented by a chain with different blades. Modern versions are characterized by the fact that they can be serviced independently. When cutting for a long time or if basic recommendations are not followed, the cutting edge wears out quickly. That is why it is necessary to remove and sharpen the chain, and then install it. This procedure is characterized by a fairly large number of features, which we will talk about in more detail below.
The chain is stretched
If the chain is used incorrectly or for a long time, it can be very stretched. This is due to the fact that the metal can deform over time. Too much wear and tear becomes the reason why you have to purchase a new version, but it is possible to use the old one for a short period. Rapid stretching can be avoided only if the recommendations for use are followed. To carry out the work you need:
- A hammer.
- Vise.
- Welding machine.
- Beards.
- Pliers.
It is not difficult to put on a stretched version of the design, but there are quite a few problems with restoration, since the metal is characterized by increased strength. In this case, the main elements are fastened with rivets. The work is carried out as follows:
- The product is fastened in pieces.
- If work is carried out while using an angle grinder, then there is a possibility that the surface will be damaged, since this tool is difficult to control.
- After crushing, rivets are knocked out. Do not throw it away due to reusability.
- Chain manufacturers do not issue spare parts that are required for maintenance.
- You can make a rivet with your own hands, but the work is quite difficult.
- The product is divided into two parts. It should be borne in mind that the number of guides and the distance between them must remain unchanged.
When solving a problem with a long length, do not forget that too short a chain can no longer be pulled. In addition, it is not recommended to apply oils to the saw chain.
Circuit voltage
Stretching can be done using two methods: fast and frontal. If stretch is used, then the installation of the chain on the chainsaw is carried out as follows:
- The nuts are unscrewed.
- The tire is held and lifted from the edge.
- There is a special bolt that is used to tension the chain.
- The tire is lifted to eliminate the possibility of sagging of the web.
It is quite simple to do this work, it requires a small set of tools.
The clockwise chain tension is carried out in the case when there is not a lot of free time. The chain screw is securely fixed to eliminate the possibility of rattling at the time of operation.
How to untangle a chainsaw chain
When removing an old chain or putting a new chain on the guide bar of the chainsaw, it can become tangled. It can also happen with careless transportation. When the chain is tangled, it folds into rings.
It is necessary to put the chainsaw chain on a horizontal surface and unwind the rings in different directions, while pulling the blade in such a direction that the diameter of the rings increases. Sooner or later, the chain will unravel into its natural position.
There is another way. you can rivet one link of the chain and straighten it, then connect it into a ring and rivet the riveted links back.
Chain tension
The chain of the chainsaw together with the guide bar is subjected to the greatest stress during operation, unlike other parts of the chainsaw. Over time, it lengthens in size due to boring gaps in the connecting links. This process occurs with absolutely any type of chain, therefore, when using a chainsaw, it is necessary to periodically monitor the correct chain tension and its wear.
The state of the chain depends on:
- Her life span;
- Safety of felling or timber breaking;
- ICE resource.
If the chain is overtightened, the efficiency of the sawing work decreases, the motor and transmission are subjected to increased loads. The guide bar heats up a lot due to increased friction, the operating mode of the chainsaw goes into excessive consumption of the fuel mixture.
Why does the chain come off
Many, even the most experienced users of chainsaws, have encountered in their life a situation where the chain jumped off the guide bar during operation. The most common cause is insufficient chain tension or wear.
In 80% of cases, the stretched chain links slip from the teeth of the drive sprocket, and it flies out from the guide under the action of centrifugal force. Although sometimes the problem appears due to the incorrect position of the sprocket relative to the axis of rotation or a loose saw bar on the chainsaw.
What to do if the chain sags
If the chain slack, there is a risk of injury to the operator. the saw blade could break or simply fly off the guide sprockets. Of course, modern chainsaws have safety and emergency stop systems, but these systems do not always work correctly.
It is important not to install a chain with defective or damaged saw links on a chainsaw, in addition to the danger of breaking at any time, such a chain will sharpen the guide grooves of the bar, which will lead to its distortion, uneven cut and failure of the guide bar.
Due to which the chain can sag during even short-term operation?
- There may be problems with the guide bar. Sometimes, due to an oversight of the operator or due to severe wear of the threads of the fixing bolts in the place where the guide bar is attached, vibration may occur, which causes the chain to loosen. Check the condition of the fixing bolts and, if necessary, replace them with new ones. When the bolts are tightened enough, these problems do not arise.
- With enough careful handling of the chainsaw, over time, any chain can wear out. Trying to repair it or collect one from several is a useless exercise. If the chain headset has stretched due to natural causes, then it is best to get a new one.
- The asterisk is skewed. Sagging can occur due to the misalignment of the sprocket teeth. In this case, it would be best to contact a service center to repair and adjust the position of the guide sprocket. It is quite difficult to fix the drive sprocket in the correct position, because you will have to dismantle many small parts, remove the guide rail, and then assemble everything in the reverse order.
Chain direction and which side to wear
A chainsaw chain, if you look closely, has saw teeth pointing to one side. Therefore, it is very easy to determine the correct direction of the saw teeth on the guide bar: if you place the chainsaw itself in the plane in which it is in operation, then the row of teeth located on top of the guide bar with sharp edges should be directed to the end of the bar. While, the row of teeth, which is located at the bottom of the chainsaw, with sharp edges should point in the opposite direction, towards the drive sprocket.
How to install a chain on a chainsaw
The chainsaw chain is the element that is subject to the greatest stress and overheating. From such influences, it can break, fly off the guide rail, or simply become dull from prolonged use. For timely maintenance or replacement with a new one, you need to know how to independently remove the saw chain from the chainsaw and install it back. The step-by-step algorithm of these operations will be shown below.
Tension check
To check the chain tension, the saw brake must be disengaged. Then manually pull the chain along the bus, if it runs smoothly and does not sag, then everything is fine. If the chain walks very tightly, then it needs to be slightly loosened, because there is a risk of rupture during work.
The chain stretched
If you have a chain slack on a chainsaw, then this indicates a malfunction of some mechanism, one of the options is the wear of the chain itself.
Over time, the metal deforms and the chains become 0.5-1 cm longer. It is best to fix this problem by purchasing a new circuit, but there is a way to get the old one back. Experts say that it is very difficult and almost impossible, but we will tell you how it can be done at home.
For this we need:
- Vice;
- File;
- Electric welding machine (not needed in all cases);
- A hammer;
- Pliers;
- Beard.
A regular chainsaw chain is made of strong steel, so it is difficult to disconnect. You need to disconnect the chain on the inside of the rivet, which serves as a connecting mechanism.
To begin with, the chains need to be fixed in a vice, and then gradually grind off the protruding part. You need to grind with a file or a file. It is not recommended to use an angle grinder, as there is a risk of damaging the lateral parts of the links. After sewing, the rivets are knocked out with a beard. The knocked-out rivet should not be thrown away. You may not be able to find a replacement for it. Manufacturers of gasoline saws do not produce individual parts for the chain, as they do not expect consumers to be able to repair the chain themselves. Most likely, you will not be able to make a new rivet yourself, so you will have to install the old one.
In order to shorten the chain, you need to split it in two places. But remember that the number and spacing of the guide lugs on the inside of the chain must match the drive sprocket.
After removing one or more of the links (depending on the degree of chain stretch), the chains can be connected. We connect to old rivets, while pressing them tightly on the sides.
Next, we need a welding machine. The rivet must be welded to the lateral parts of the link. After that, with a file we grind off the excess that was formed when working with welding. The chain can be considered healthy again.
Poor drive sprocket
One potential chain slack on your device is a drive sprocket issue. Most often, everything happens due to the fact that the star is poorly fixed. Now we will tell you how to properly fasten the star and then put the chain on the chainsaw.
First you need to remove the engine protection cover. Next, remove the protective cover of the spark plug, pull out the air filter. Then you need to unscrew the candle with a special key. A special stopper is placed in its place, which fixes the piston in a certain position. With a special wrench (you can use a universal wrench for an angle grinder), turn the clutch disc clockwise until the piston reaches the uppermost position. If you look into the hole of the plug, then the piston should remain at the bottom. A thick rope can be used as a stopper; it is better to fold it several times. Once locked, you can clamp the drive sprocket by rotating the clutch disc counterclockwise.
After clamping, you need to do everything in the reverse order, that is, assemble the chainsaw. A chain is put on the tire, it must hit the drive sprocket that holds it. The tire is placed in special mounting holes and bolted. Then protection is put.
Why the chain flies, we find out the reasons
If you wondered why the chain on your chainsaw flies, then there is some kind of malfunction in the mechanism. There are three main reasons for this problem: bar malfunction, chain stretch, and loose sprocket. Let’s take a closer look at each of the possible causes of breakdown.
Chainsaw device features
The main part of a gasoline saw is the engine. In most modern devices, the engine is single-cylinder. Air cooling, two-stroke piston system. Oil in these types of engines is added directly to gasoline, and all due to the fact that the fuel constantly flushes the crankcase. The oil-gasoline ratio varies from 1:20 to 1:50 depending on the manufacturer of the chainsaw.
The air filter on gasoline saws plays an equally important role. It needs regular cleaning. If the filter is heavily contaminated, dust from it will fall directly into the piston system, which will lead to engine damage.
If the filter is clogged, the saw loses speed and the engine starts to overheat, which can lead to burning of the piston rings.
The starter on gasoline saws is a rope with a handle that you pull on to activate the motor. When you pull on the rope, the teeth catch the ratchet, the flywheel starts to spin.
Many people complain about long pulling on the rope to ignite the engine. It depends on whether the carburetor is correctly aligned. If the carburetor produces the correct oil-gasoline mixture, then there should be no problems.
The main working mechanism is a tire with a chain.
The chain consists of three types of teeth: leading, cutting and connecting. They are riveted together. Cutting teeth are located on two sides: right and left.
Chains are divided into two types: high profile and low profile. The first type includes chains, in which the teeth are located with a large gap, the second. with a smaller gap. Chains can also vary in shank thickness and link length. The chainsaw chain is attached to a bar that guides it in the right direction. The end of the tire has a specific groove that holds the links and allows the chain to rotate. A driven sprocket is located at the front of the tire. The chain together with the tire is called a headset, since they are detachable parts of the chainsaw.
The gasoline saw has an automatic chain lubrication system. The tire supplies oil, which is then absorbed by the sawdust. If the saw is idling, the oil supply stops.
Installing the chain on a chainsaw, how to properly tension and check the tension
If you have a chainsaw at home, then you should know that it requires special care. It is necessary to periodically clean and sharpen the chains, clean the air filter, oil supply and tires. And, of course, you need to monitor the tension of the chain, since with a poor tension there is a risk not only to harm the saw, but also to your health if the chain falls off at high speeds.
- Chainsaw device features
- Why the chain flies, we find out the reasons
- Bus problems
- The chain stretched
- Poor drive sprocket