What kind of oil is used for the chainsaw chain

What is the best chain oil to use

The operation of the saw unit is accompanied by friction and hence heat generation. If the actions are performed “dry”, then the mechanical contact of the chain with the tire will provoke rapid wear of the parts, making the purchase of an expensive model unprofitable. To avoid such consequences, by softening friction, oil allows for lubricating the chainsaw chain.

Popular brands of adhesive oils

When choosing oil for a chainsaw, you need to pay attention to the price last. The buyer should be interested in the composition of the liquid and its properties, which make it possible to exclude the rapid wear of the chainsaw.

Manufacturers recommend using only chain oils of the brand produced for a particular model. They meet all the requirements.

Husqvarna oils

Funds of this brand are considered the best, despite their cost. Good lubricating properties are retained even at low temperatures. The plant base makes the composition environmentally friendly and biodegradable.

• The Bio Advanced brand perfectly retains its characteristics both under normal operating conditions and under extreme conditions. It is supplied to the market in small containers of 1 liter and in containers of 5 liters.
• A feature of Vegoil is its economy. this oil consumes 40 percent less than other brands. Supplied for sale in 1 l.

Husqvarna produces quality bearing compounds that are excellent for machining chain wheels on chainsaw tires.

How can you replace expensive oil

Expensive compounds significantly extend the life of the saw unit. But some chainsaw owners deliberately purchase a cheap alternative to the original lubricant. It is more convenient for them to change the chain and tire more often than to spend money on an expensive brand.

The choice of lubricants should be based on their ability to protect the bar from chain friction. Therefore, poor quality will cause more problems than good. If the original oil for chainsaws is replaced with an automobile oil, a lubricant composition with increased adhesion properties should be chosen.

Among the budget options are:

• Nanotech Standard;
• adhesive oil Nanotek Premium;
• Champion.

These options are great at low temperatures. Experienced sawers recommend paying attention to the fluid for machines and equipment of the Enkor brand.

STIHL adhesive oils

This brand belongs to the category of environmentally friendly, non-polluting products. STIHL adhesive oils are vegetable and semi-synthetic base oils derived from the highest quality raffinates. The required viscosity is maintained under all climatic conditions, so the saw will work efficiently even at fairly low temperatures.

STIHL offers several varieties of high performance adhesive oils:

• ForestPlus is designed for use at low temperatures (up to 15 degrees). With proper handling, it retains its properties for 3 years. Available in containers of 1 and 5 liters.
• SynthPlus grease maintains working properties at temperatures of 25 degrees. Has a synthetic component and does not contain impurities that affect wear.
• The main feature of BioPlus is a vegetable base, which allows the composition to decompose quickly when it gets into the ground. Also withstands temperatures up to 15 degrees, it is supplied in a one-liter container and containers of 3 and 5 liters.

The listed brands have one more characteristic feature. due to the optimal viscosity grade, oils are consumed economically. Therefore, the price spent on lubrication justifies itself.

Chainsaw sprocket oils

The most wearing part of the unit is the saw headset, which includes sprockets (leading and driven), a bar and a chain. The movement of metal on metal occurs at a tremendous speed. The maximum contact load is experienced by the guide elements.

To avoid negative effects, lubrication is required. For this, the unit is equipped, in addition to a fuel tank, and an oil reservoir. From there, the liquid is fed to the tire by an oil pump, and then through the grooves it enters the chain.

The speed of the saw head of the unit depends on the state of the drive sprocket. The mechanism of this part is equipped with a needle bearing, due to which the degree of friction of the parts is reduced.

The bearing part is hidden in the tire housing. In order for the lubricant for the chainsaw sprocket to achieve its goal, there are special technological holes through which oil is injected with a syringe. But it is not enough to ensure smooth sliding. you need to take care of the durability of the tool, and this parameter depends on the quality of the composition.

Requirements for lubricants:

• optimal viscosity;
• anti-corrosion;
• the ability to use at low temperatures;
• the presence of antioxidant and antiwear additives;
• lack of a mineral component;
• biodegradability.

High-quality chain saw oil should not only smooth out friction, but also reduce the heating temperature of the parts.

Waste oil use

In order to save money, some owners of chainsaws use mining for chain lubrication. oils drained from the machine. But this leads to even greater wear of the mechanism, since such a lubricant acts on the principle of an abrasive, only increasing the friction of the chain.

This is due to the metal shavings drained from the oil pan together with the used oil. Because of it, not only the sprockets on the tire wear out faster, but also the saw chain deforms (and often breaks).

If it becomes necessary to use non-original chainsaw oil, but automobile oil, then you should not use the used one, but a clean composition without impurities. But this is not allowed to be done all the time, but in extreme cases.

Chainsaw Bar Oil vs Motor Oil

Recommendations for the use of special oils for chainsaws

The saw bar and chain should be lubricated with a special oil, other types of this substance are not suitable for this purpose. If applied, the oil pump can be damaged as it is self-lubricating for high quality performance. Using waste, including filtered, oil compositions in a chainsaw means disrupting the tool’s ability to high speed.

The chain requires proper storage, which is associated with immersion in oil. If the saw bar is worn out, do not put a new chain on it. It is important to have a chain in stock, and it is best to purchase several chains at once. The optimal number of chains in stock is 4 pieces, which allows working with them in turn and periodically sharpening each of them. This ensures a reduced level of wear on each of the components, i.e. tire, chain and drive sprocket.

Professionals recommend not to sharpen the chain, but to correct it with the help of special devices that allow you to sharpen the chain. Refills are made every 2 or 3 fillings of the fuel mixture into the saw tank.

One intended work with the tool requires the preparation of a certain amount of fuel mixture. At the same time, it is strictly forbidden to work with a chainsaw without oil in the tank. When refueling the saw with fuel, you should immediately provide for its required amount, which should be lubricated with the bar and chain. The main thing is that its composition is purified, free of impurities, water, sand, debris, etc.

The filling of the tanks should be carried out simultaneously, that is, the oil is poured together with the fuel mixture into different tanks. Take into account the air temperature. If the temperature is below 20 ° C, then it must be diluted with dehydrated kerosene, taking into account the ratio of 4: 1, that is, 1 part of kerosene is added to 4 parts. If there is an adjustment for the oil supply, it is made maximum.

Choosing oil with a different type of engine for a chainsaw

Diagram of the interaction of fuel and air flow of a chainsaw carburetor.

In order to lubricate the motors of a tool with a two-stroke engine, a combustion solution of fuel is used, since oil is not used in the fuel composition. If we take into account the differences between the types of oils used in different engines, for example, four-stroke or two-stroke, then there is a difference in the methods of their consumption.

The high-quality operation of a chainsaw with a four-stroke engine is due to the absence of oils in the combustion chamber, therefore, different types of motors have different requirements. For example, two-stroke motors are usually filled with oil, which, when burned, does not result in carbon deposits.

A chainsaw with a four-stroke engine can work for a long time as a result of lubrication with oil, which does not have special requirements for its complete combustion. You can select additives without taking into account the ash content, the level of which should be more than 2%.

If the chainsaw is equipped with a two-stroke engine, which runs on oils suitable for four-stroke engines, as a result, ash settles on the walls in the combustion chamber. Ash can remain on the surface of the piston, and an abrasive powder is also formed that acts on the saw piston like sandpaper.

The erasure of parts of the structure of the toolkit is carried out and the term of its use is reduced. The presence of settled soot at the end of the use of the oil is harmful to the tool, which can lose the quality of work due to the loss of power from its motor.

If soot is deposited in the exhaust vents, then their cross-sectional area is reduced, which is associated with difficulties during exhaust gas emission and power loss. If ash is deposited on the piston of the cylinder, as well as on its head, then detonation and drip ignition occurs. All this leads to a decrease in the power of the saw, which reduces its useful life.

For chainsaws, two types of oil are made, one of which is suitable for creating a fuel mixture. In this case, gasoline of brand 92 is taken in a ratio of 50 parts of gasoline to 1 part of oil (Super 95) used when operating a two-stroke engine, respectively. Different manufacturers of chainsaws produce oil for them under different brands, of which there are a sufficient number. So, 5 liters of gasoline are usually mixed with 100 ml of the substance. If you use one that is not suitable for the model of the tool used, this will lead to damage to the saw and quick wear.

Unsuitable oil poured into the saw can simply settle in the cylinder on its walls if it entered the combustion chamber, but did not have time to burn out. This approach to using a chainsaw will slowly shorten the life of the tool or its grass trimmer. If the total life of the chainsaw is 400 hours, then this indicator can be reduced to 200 hours.

The saw chain should be lubricated with a special adhesive oil, which must be poured into the saw tank provided for this purpose. After turning on the saw, it is pumped up by a special pump in automatic mode, after which the chain is lubricated.

The chainsaw can, which includes two containers, can be poured into 6 liters of fuel mixture and 2.5 liters of oil. Changing this ratio, pour in 5 liters of a fuel mixture and 3 liters of adhesive oil, the consumption of which will be 1 liter for a fuel mixture with a volume of 1.6-2.4 liters.

What oil is required to be poured into the chainsaw to lubricate the chain?

Chainsaws, as a rule, have a two-stroke or four-stroke engine and two tanks, one of which is filled with fuel, that is, gasoline, and the second should be filled with oil, which lubricates the saw chain. The volume of the gasoline tank can include 0.3-1.0 liters of the consistency of fuel with oil, and the oil tank has a volume that is actually 2 times smaller.

Recycled chain oil is not recommended.

How to dilute oil in fuel correctly?

Dilute oil in gasoline, observing a certain sequence. Previously, it is poured into a canister or other container, after which a suitable gasoline used in a particular chainsaw is added to the same container. The volume of gasoline should be approximately half of the required amount of fuel.

After thoroughly shaking the mixture and stirring it, add the second part of the prepared fuel there. Pour the mixture into the container of the fuel tank after thoroughly shaking the mixture in the original container. Pour the mixture carefully, trying not to spill it.

It is not recommended to fill fuel up to the very top of the tank. Usually some free space is left at the top of the tank. The 0.5 liter fuel tank delivers 2 kW of tool power, or 2.7 HP. Fuel is consumed in the amount of 1.2 l / h, so the fuel mixture can be enough to work for 30-40 minutes with the maximum load on the tool. The more the power of the chainsaw, the smaller the volume of its fuel tank.

It is recommended to lubricate the chainsaw chain only with special oils, the quality of which is guaranteed by the manufacturer of the tool itself. Chainsaw manufacturers are engaged in the manufacture of special oils with m of adhesive additives that provide high-quality lubrication of the chain due to the long-term retention of the lubricating composition on it.

It is better not to skimp on the purchase of oil, purchasing it in cheaper types, but immediately take an adhesive one so that the saw chains and the tool itself do not fail. This can reduce the damage done, since the cost of the oil pump, chainsaw and tires is significantly less after they break.

Other disadvantages of using oil that is not adhesive is that it leaks from the tank of an inoperative tool. Due to the mismatch of the viscosity of the unsuitable lubricant with the standards during the pumping process, it does not come in the amount that is necessary, that is, more or less. As a result, it will be wrong to use oils and fuels in equal amounts.

What oil is used in a chainsaw?

Experienced experts recommend using one fraction of the fuel mixture for two weeks.

The life of a chainsaw is determined by the type of lubricant used when working with equipment. The two-stroke saw and the fuel tank are used in accordance with the instructions. Often, a fuel mixture is made by mixing gasoline and oil, which are combined in a specific ratio. This information must be indicated by the manufacturer in the relevant instructions.

If the inventory is of domestic manufacture, then gasoline with the AI-76 brand is usually used, as well as ordinary motorcycle oil. The proportions in which gasoline and oil are taken are 1/25. If foreign-made chainsaws are used, then the requirements will be different. They are reduced to the use of gasoline with an octane number equal to 95 and 92, at the same time a special oil is used that is suitable for these grades of fuel.

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Mixes oil with fuel in a ratio of 1/40. It is suitable to use metered canisters, which greatly simplify the process of making the fuel mixture. The use of foreign-made tools requires an appropriate refueling with motorcycle oils.

It should be borne in mind that certain types of foreign-made lubricants can be used by working with chainsaws, the cycle of which is 8.5 thousand per minute. Basically, a tool with an oscillation cycle in the range of 11-14 thousand / min is used. The use of foreign oils in such saws is the reason for a decrease in the motor resource by an average of 8%. If the chainsaw is operating at full power, then the lubricant is consumed half an hour after it is turned on.

Experienced professionals recommend using one fraction of the fuel mixture for two weeks, because otherwise a chemical reaction occurs. With all this, oil can lose all properties, and gasoline is capable of oxidation. As a result, parts are clogged, the motor overheats and the CPG is jammed. The type of oil to be filled into the instrument must be carefully controlled.

How to use a chainsaw?

A ratio of the volumes of oil and fuel is used, in which the lubricant will be consumed when lubricating the chain at the same time, namely after 30-45 minutes of time that has been worked out, provided the chainsaw is fully loaded. If the engine is two-stroke, then it most requires the use of a pre-prepared fuel mixture to lubricate the chain.

Chainsaw electronic ignition circuit.

The specificity of saw operation is determined by seasonality. When a two-stroke motor is operating, its cycle differs from that of a four-stroke engine of the instrument. The use of a mixture of gasoline and oil to lubricate some structural elements of the chainsaw, for example a piston or shaft, is one of the highlights. Otherwise, an attempt associated with the use of a tool that works only on gasoline, and not on oil, will not lead to a positive result, but only to damage the tool.

You can use a domestic tool with the use of gasoline of grade 76 simultaneously with oil, the ratio of which to fuel is taken equal to 1/25, that is, in an amount of 4%. If you use a saw model from foreign manufacturers, you will need a brand of gasoline 92 with branded oils.

These oils are created by manufacturers of chainsaws, while the ratio in the required consistencies is 2.5%, 1:40. Two-stroke engines can be installed on foreign-made chainsaws, but it must be borne in mind that refined gasoline is required, without the presence of impurities.

Chainsaw electronic ignition circuit.

The choice of oil per motor is possible, the number of cycles of which can reach 8.5 thousand / min. In chainsaws from foreign manufacturers, cycles are provided that can reach power in the range from 11 to 14 thousand / min. The use of these lubricants reduces the presence of the saw’s motor resource by 7-10%, which boils down to the following: the use of Zhiguli oils is suitable for all types of household and special chainsaws.

If the tool is used at low temperatures, then even the correct choice of the constituent lubricants does not bring the quality of the oil mixed with fuel to a positive result, that is, crystallization and an increase in viscosity occur. With all this, the tool must be adapted to the application, taking into account the maximum engine warm-up.

If you follow the recommendations, the chainsaw should be warmed up before use, especially if the storage place was a cold room that is not heated. This will prevent a negative result if condensation occurs in the saw mechanism.

What kind of oil to fill the chainsaw tank correctly?

When lubricating the chain links of the chainsaw, the composition is poured into a special container. Its use helps to reduce the frictional force that occurs between the bar and the chain links. The use of special oils with a viscous consistency to lubricate the chainsaw chain will give positive results, ensure a long service life of the equipment. In the absence of this substance, car oil is suitable.

Choose the right oil that allows you to properly lubricate the chain, depending on the time of year when it will be used. So, in the summer, mineral oils are best suited, the disadvantage of which is the crystallization of the structure of the substance at low temperatures. Therefore, in winter, experts recommend using oils with special additives that are synthetic, which makes them less viscous. This facilitates the use of the saw at low temperatures, in other words, up to 40 ° C.

The use of semi-synthetics seems to be a more suitable option when using the saw at a moderate temperature, fluctuating in the range of 30. 25 ° С.

How to Oil a Chainsaw Bar and Chain

It is strongly not recommended to fill the tank with recycled machine oils for lubricating the chainsaw chain.

Such oils can be highly oxidized, and this is due to the presence of impurities in them, which can cause damage to the chainsaw. At the same time, sometimes during the operation of saws, gear or engine oils are poured into them, which is acceptable.

Motor oils, suitable not only for two-stroke, but also for four-stroke engines, are made on the basis of base oil and additional substances, that is, additives that can be different. Various solvents can be used as additives to improve the mixing process of oils and fuels, their pumpability, and a possible atomization method.

Conditions for the use of oils in chainsaws

Chainsaws operating at high temperatures can function efficiently due to oils equipped with iron additives. Their main property is to provide lubrication at elevated temperatures.

Important! Experienced craftsmen do not recommend using a tool that works at idle speed for a long time.

With this operation of the motor, its running-in is not carried out. The use of a chainsaw with a four-stroke engine with a suitable oil, with its complete combustion, is not associated with special requirements.

solvents in two-stroke oils can be 20%. The result of their application can be negative, since the quality of chain lubrication decreases with increasing temperature. If the chainsaw is equipped with a two-stroke engine, then the oil should not be used with the maximum number of additives, as they contribute to an increase in the viscosity.

Husqvarna

The products of this brand also do not need unnecessary introductions, since they have proven themselves only from the best side. Attention is drawn to the Vegeil Husqvarna chain oil, which is plant-based, has good lubricating properties and is highly environmentally friendly. The oil is economical, biodegradable, has a low viscosity even at low temperatures. Due to their excellent performance characteristics, oils of this brand are considered one of the best.

Types and composition

The choice of a specific oil should be based on where and how the chainsaw is used. Mineral compositions are suitable for summer and warm season. In other cases, it is better to use synthetic or semi-synthetic oils. If you need to lubricate the chain, do not use waste oils, which will lead to clogging of the fuel system, and then to serious damage to the tool.

Chainsaw oil must be thoroughly cleaned to ensure proper and accurate lubrication. If you use low-quality compounds, then there will be no contact between the saw elements and the tire, sparks will appear, and subsequently the moving parts of the saw will wear out.

How to choose?

Each chainsaw has a carburetor two-stroke engine and two tanks: one is filled with gasoline, the other is filled with oil. When choosing a composition for lubrication, zoning plays an important role. it should be minimal. Another important indicator is resistance to low temperatures: the oil should not solidify with a strong minus, which will ensure the quality of the entire tool.

For lubrication, it is advisable to use an adhesive oil for chainsaws, containing special substances, thanks to which the composition adheres well to the chain. High-quality oil will remain on the chain as it rotates, and the chain itself will be more reliable in operation.

Another important indicator of lubrication is density: if the composition is liquid, it will be consumed in greater quantities. In order not to harm the environment when using the chainsaw, it is important to use plant-based oil. its waste will decompose in the natural environment.

Which chain saw oil to choose, because modern manufacturers offer a wide range of options? Among the specialized manufacturers, one can note such brands as Divinol, Bio-Kettenol, Ravenol, VegOil, Mobil, Castrol, Shell. Let’s consider the features of their products in more detail.

STIHL BioPlus

Probably every user knows STIHL brand products. The eco-friendly STIHL chainsaw chain oil is highly efficient and plant-based. The chain oil is of high quality that can be appreciated in all climates. Thanks to their environmental friendliness, STIHL products have always been popular with customers. Especially noteworthy is the STIHL BioPlus chain oil, which is formulated for the treatment of high-speed chains. It differs:

• resistance to oiling;
• excellent adhesion thanks to special additives;
• excellent protection of the cutting head;
• excellent fluidity that remains even at low temperatures;
• oxidation resistance.

The most important thing is that the oil is absolutely safe for the environment, as it decomposes naturally.

Chainsaw oil. What oil to use to lubricate the chainsaw chain?

Chainsaws are a popular tool for those who have to do numerous household chores on their own. They can be used for different purposes. to harvest firewood, cut off dry branches But in order for the device to last as long as possible, you need to properly care for it, choosing different compositions wisely. A special role is played by oil for chainsaws, which is selected depending on the principles of operation of the tool and its characteristics.

Ravenol

Which chainsaw oil to choose? Many people note the formulations of the Ravenol brand. Thus, Ravenol Saegekettenoel S 85 is a special mineral oil created in Germany from high quality base oil with the addition of a number of additives. It is suitable for the lubrication of the saw chain and has good adhesion and lubricating properties. Thanks to special additives, the oil remains on the chain even at high saw speeds, and the chain itself becomes more reliable in operation. Provides oil and reliable protection against corrosion, even if the work is carried out in unfavorable conditions. Thanks to the use of this composition, you can:

• reduce vibration of the saw chain;
• reliably protect it from corrosion;
• cool the circuit due to good thermal conductivity;
• cut any kind of wood quickly and cleanly.

STIHL semi-synthetic oil

STIHL chainsaw chain oil is an environmentally friendly lubricant, as it is made from high quality virgin raffinates. The oil contains no impurities that can pollute the environment. This tool can be used in any climatic conditions, and it will behave equally effectively even at low temperatures. STIHL chain oil reliably protects saw chains from wear. This composition can be purchased in different volumes. it depends on the characteristics of the chainsaw and the degree of load on it.

Oregon

What kind of oil to use to lubricate the chainsaw chain and how to choose one so that it can be used at any time of the year? The Oregon brand offers formulations that are suitable for all types of instruments. Viscosity stability is a guarantee that the oil is suitable for operation at any time of the year. It is formulated with refined mineral oils to which additives are added. The peculiarity of the Oregon compositions is in their manufacture on the basis of high molecular weight compounds. The distinctive features of the oil include:

• protection of the guide bar and chain from overheating;
• reduced vibration;
• prevention of corrosion due to the formation of an oil film.

Thanks to special adhesion additives, such oil acquires a high stickiness, viscosity, so even at high speeds it will not splash and remain on the chain and tire. Thanks to the regular use of oil, it is possible to reduce the load on the cutting attachment, and in general on the entire chain saw mechanism. Special additives reduce the energy consumption of the saw, increasing the efficiency of the sawing process. The main thing is that when using these funds, resinous deposits are not formed.

Adjustment of oil density to external temperature factors

The use of chain oil at low temperatures up to 20 ° C negatively affects the performance of the oil pump and the durability of its drive.

In the absence of the required material, the problem is solved by diluting the oil thickened in the cold. Dehydrated kerosene is the best solvent.

Such an additive will provide full lubrication of the headset, but it is recommended to significantly limit heavy loads when the saw is operating on diluted oil.

Danger of using counterfeit oil

The performance properties of cheaper counterfeit oils are inferior to proprietary developments in basic parameters. The problem is that, relying on the perceived quality of the product, users operate their chainsaw equipment at full loads.

The use of surrogate oils initiates accelerated wear of the material part, in some cases it is the basis for the cancellation of factory warranty obligations by the service departments.

Price features of the offered assortments

European chain oils of a high price group are recommended for the operation of professional chainsaw equipment operating in difficult and even extreme conditions.

Domestic chain oils are mostly produced from their raw materials, imported additives and using modern technologies.

In terms of quality and operational characteristics, the Russian assortment is not inferior to similar products of European brands, but it costs much less.

Chinese saw headsets of the middle class are inferior to European counterparts in terms of wear resistance and durability of operation. This imbalance is partially eliminated by the use of chain oils recommended by the manufacturer, developed by Chinese specialists.

According to the suppliers of consumables, the presence of special additives in Chinese chain oils has a positive effect on the performance of standard tires and saw chains, as well as chainsaw equipment in general.

All of the above applies only to the products of large companies. The advantages of using chain oils for small private businesses have not been proven in practice.

Performance properties

Branded or standard chainsaw chain oil meets specific standards in terms of density, viscosity, debris removal and other performance characteristics.

• Organic and mineral compositions do not differ significantly in their working properties.
• Experienced users recommend working on organic consumables if the intervals between using the chainsaw do not exceed several days.
• Anti-corrosion and other protective properties of more expensive mineral oils are used if the tool is used for infrequent one-time work.

It is not difficult to check the oil for compliance with the external temperature, and at the same time the lubrication system for operability. To do this, hold the saw headset running at medium speed over a clean sheet of paper for a few seconds.

By the width and saturation of the oil strip, one can judge the suitability of the composition for long-term operation at a given air temperature and the performance of the built-in oil pump.

Self-selection criteria

The problem of how to replace branded chain oil, which is not commercially available, is relevant for many peripheral regions. According to experts, a full-fledged analogue is products of well-known brands STIHL and Husqvarna, identical in basic characteristics. Motor and chain oils from these manufacturers have proven themselves in all respects from the best side.

Taking into account the possibilities of the offered assortment, the consumer can make a choice in favor of a more expensive chain oil or its budget analogue. In addition to branded products, the list includes Enkor, Nanotech Standard and Nanotech Premium oils, which retain their working properties at temperatures up to 30 ° C.

Mineral oil versions are represented by the brands Makita and Makita Oregon, identical lubricating characteristics for organic chain oils Makita Biotop, STIHL Bio Plus, which are sold in packaging from 1 to 25 liters.

Most professional sawers prefer one brand of branded lubricants. Continuous use of one brand of oil allows you to explore its capabilities and use them with maximum efficiency.

Versatility problems

Performance evaluations of so-called multipurpose oils should be viewed critically. In reality, this is not a very good publicity stunt. To date, no manufacturer who respects its reputation has received information about the start of production of 100% universal oil.

Practice has proven that the wrong choice of chain lubrication increases the load on the engine by 7-10% and also reduces the working life of the saw set.

Pro tips for choosing and using chain oils

The operation of the lubrication system must be monitored periodically. A lack of oil supply can be easily identified by the increased load on the engine and the smell of overheated wood. The crown and bearing of the driving and driven sprockets need additional lubrication.

Advantages of automatic systems

Less oil-consuming chainsaws equipped with automatic lubrication systems. Depending on the engine speed, the oil supply is metered by a variable displacement pump.

At idle speed, oil is practically not consumed. Models with automatic lubrication cut material consumption by almost half.

Manufacturers of adhesive oils

Almost all manufacturers of chainsaws are engaged in the production of consumables for them, explaining that these products are most suitable for use in conjunction with their saws. There is no information about how true this is, but based on the experience of operating and repairing chainsaws, it can be noted that there are no significant differences in the service life of parts or at least visible wear.

But the fact is the fact, the manufacturers recommend and cannot be hidden. So, back to the manufacturers, and start with the popular STIHL brand.

Chainsaw chain oil. which one to use

You are a recent owner of a chainsaw, and you still do not know which chain oil is best to use. Lack of this knowledge can have a detrimental effect on the tool, since the type and quality of the lubricant determines how long the tire and the tool chain will maintain their performance.

After reading this article, you will fill the knowledge gap, because we will consider the use of oils, of various manufacturers and brands, to reduce friction between the parts of the saw headset. And also we will figure out what additional lubricants are used to service the chainsaw in order to maximize its service life.

What oil to use to lubricate the chainsaw chain

Adhesion is a measure of the adhesion of a material, in this case oil, to the metal surface of the bar and chain.

What is it for? The fact is that the chain moves along the tire at a high speed, and if oil is used as a lubricant, which has low adhesion, then most of it, by inertia, flies off the end of the tire and lubrication of its lower part does not occur. This phenomenon can be observed with a small experiment.

The photo shows how the chain guides are lubricated with oil (orange) in the tire.

Start the chainsaw, point the end of the tire towards a bright surface and add maximum gas. As a result, oil stains will appear on it, which are proof of the theory. Also, we definitely recommend reading an interesting article on how to start a chainsaw.

Expert oil comparison

As a result of comparative tests, 3 winners were determined:

• Caliber. cheap, good adhesion, biodegradability.
• Oregon. average price, good adhesion, time-tested brand.
• STIHL. expensive, time-tested brand, affordable price, a lot of fake.

Here everyone chooses what is closer to their liking and the possibility of biodegradability or the price. Editor’s Choice. Oregon is a middle ground between quality and price.

STIHL adhesive oils

The company’s website contains the following adhesive oils designed for various operating temperatures and having a good lubricating performance:

• ForestPlus adhesive oil. recommended for use at temperatures up to. 15 ° C, shelf life under storage conditions is 3 years. Supplied in 1 liter or 5 liter containers;
• BioPlus. its peculiarity is a vegetable base, which allows it to decompose quickly when it gets into the soil. It is used up to minus 15, it is supplied in three, five and one liter containers;
• The latest SynthPlus oil is characterized by its ability to maintain performance at minus 25 ° C.

We also recommend reading an interesting article about all STIHL oils.

Other manufacturers

Less common manufacturers of adhesive oils specifically designed for lubricating saw chains, but popular with chainsaw owners, are:

• Carver;
• Adhesive Champion, sold in containers up to 10 liters, which is convenient for use in forestry;
• Makita Biotop;
• Caliber;
• Fubag;
• Oregon;
• Makita.

How to replace the original expensive oil and is it worth?

In situations where it is not possible to use original ones, they can be replaced with oil for car engines. Cheap automobile oils such as autol or diesel lubrication options, due to low adhesion properties, are unsuitable for long-term use.

Some owners, despite the recommendations, still use analogs, preferring to change the tire and chain more often, but here everyone decides for himself. Such oil cannot have any negative effects on the chainsaw lubrication system, which means the difference is only in the quality of the tire protection against chain friction.

For more details about replacement options, we recommend reading here.

Chainsaw chain oil selection rules

All modern chainsaws have a separate oil circuit for lubricating the cutting elements of the chain.

The quality of the saws largely depends on their condition and working conditions. Therefore, companies that produce accessories for chainsaws create special brands of oils that provide reliable surface lubrication.

Sprocket grease

At the end of the chainsaw bar, there is a driven sprocket that rotates the chain. It also needs to be lubricated periodically. For this, thick materials are used. STIHL multipurpose grease can be used. Domestic lithol-based lubricants are also suitable. There is a special hole on the sprocket lubrication tire. You need to pump grease into it with a grease can or a syringe.

It should be noted that with frequent use of the tire toe, for example, when cutting grooves, the load on the sprocket increases and it needs to be lubricated more often.

When and how to fill

Where to fill the chain oil is clear. There is a separate container for this. In most chainsaws, the size of this container is calculated taking into account the volume of the saw’s gas tank. When both tanks are full, they empty at about the same time. Therefore, it is recommended to fill the full volume of the oil tank at the same time as filling the fuel tank. Then you don’t have to be distracted by topping up twice.

Before starting work, it is useful to check if oil will flow to the chain. To do this, it is enough to direct the end of the tire onto a flat surface. Some of the grease will fly off the edge of the tire. Droplets on the surface indicate that the system is operating normally.

At high negative temperatures, summer oil thickens and its lubricity deteriorates. Therefore, it is worth using brands designed for winter conditions. If this is not possible, then it is worth taking the time to dilute the existing oil to reduce its thickness. It is best to dilute with kerosene in a ratio of 1 to 4.

Some models have an adjustable feed rate in the lubrication system. It is useful for correcting in the event of a change in the type of grease.

Note! Do not fill the tank with a mixture of different types of oils. mineral and synthetic.

If the oil from one manufacturer has run out, and the same type is available, but from a different company, then their mixing is allowed, provided that they are used immediately. Leaving such a mixture for a long time is not worth it.

Main manufacturers

Leading manufacturers of chainsaws produce consumables and lubricants for them, including those specifically for chains and tires. All other things being equal, you should give preference to the products of the manufacturer of the chainsaw itself. But the quality of the best brands is such that the use of lubricants from another manufacturer will not have a negative impact on the work.

The most famous brands are the German company STIHL, the Swedish company Husqvarna and the Japanese company Makita. They provide a fairly wide range of adhesive oils, including the following:

• mineral STIHL ForestPlus is designed to work at temperatures up to 15 ℃. Standard packing. 1 and 5 liters. For long-term work, it has recently been produced in a 20-liter container;
• the highly sustainable STIHL BioPlus is plant-based. Once in the soil, it quickly decomposes without contaminating it. The working temperature is also up to 15 ℃. Packing. 1 and 3 liters;
• semi-synthetic STIHL SynthPlus suitable for low temperatures, working usable up to 25 °.
• Eco-friendly, biodegradable Bio and Bio Advanced. It is presented as a universal multigrade oil. Bio Advanced option. improved oxidation resistance and up to 10% better lubricating properties;
• Makita. Biotop oil;
• adhesive oil Champion.

Of the Russian brands, especially for chains, there is Zubr ZMPM-M. There are other, less well-known manufacturers, whose lubricating oil is noticeably lower in price.

How to replace expensive oil

Special branded chain lubricants have the disadvantage of their high price. It is not burdensome to buy a liter of other expensive oil. And if work is coming that requires several liters, or even tens of liters, thoughts of saving will surely arise. The main thing is not to go to extremes when considering options. You can save on oil to such an extent that you will have to change the chain several times, or even the tire itself or the oil pump.

There are three replacement options. Firstly, specialized products of little-known manufacturers can be used for chain lubrication. But such oils still need to be looked for. In addition, there is a risk of stumbling upon a low-quality product.

Application of oils for automobile engines. They can be used as a temporary replacement, but they cannot boast of high adhesion, so the quality of their work will be clearly worse than special ones. For this reason, it is not recommended to use spindle and diesel oils. the worst in adhesion.

And I must definitely say about one more option. working off. This is the name of the oil that has worked out its life in the engine and is drained from it when it is replaced.

In fact, this is not an option at all. Metal particles are always present in mining. And if they may not damage the chain itself, then they certainly will not damage the oil pump and the entire lubrication system. On forums on the Internet, you can find a “killer” argument in favor of working off. that the Soviet Druzhba chainsaw did not have chain lubrication at all and worked. So you can pour anything. and so it will do. Well, STIHL will also work with a working off or even with a non-lubricated chain. The question is how long it will work and how many chains will have to be changed during this period.

Caution to those who have a chainsaw within the warranty period. Masters of warranty workshops are able to identify cases of use of low-quality chain lubrication. Especially when using mining. Repairs under warranty will be denied immediately.

What kind of oil should you use

It is widely believed that quality branded chainsaw oil should only be used in the engine’s gasoline-oil mixture. However, the choice of oil for lubrication is a simple matter. Anyone will do, as long as it gets to the right place.

But adding lubricant to the chain is half the battle. It is necessary that it hold on to the metal and remain on the lower edge, with which the tree is sawn. For this purpose, substances with increased adhesion are used, that is, the ability to adhere to the surface and adhere to it. Oil with poor adhesion will fly off the rapidly rotating chain, splattering around uselessly. Of course, some part will remain, but it is not known whether this will be enough so that during intensive work the circuit does not overheat.

Important! During all-season operation with a chainsaw, it is necessary to take into account the dependence of the oil supply conditions on the season and air temperature.

Mineral materials that provide chain and bar lubrication at freezing temperatures crystallize and thicken in the cold. This leads to the fact that the lubrication will be difficult to supply and the load on the oil pump will increase. Its service life is shortened and it may fail prematurely. In winter, it is necessary to choose synthetic materials with special additives that provide reliable lubrication in frosts down to 40 ℃. At low frosts and temperatures near zero, semi-synthetics are used.

Estimates of the use of different oils for lubricating chainsaw chains boil down to the fact that the wrong choice can increase the engine load by up to 10%. The service life of the chain and guide bar is further reduced.

Due to the fact that in recent years great importance has been attached to ecology, more and more branded oil products are made on the basis of decomposable substances. But during long-term operation, the consumption of chain lubrication can be measured in liters. And for people who are not indifferent to nature, this will be another reason to choose an environmentally friendly product. If you do not care what your area is sprayed with and what marks remain on the wood after cutting.

Oil does not flow to the chain, what are the reasons

It is not always during operation that you can immediately see that no oil is supplied to the chainsaw chain. Signs of lack of lubrication:

• the level in the tank does not drop;
• cutting is difficult, accompanied by the smell of burnt wood;
• oil droplets do not fly off the tip of the chainsaw tire.

Having found a malfunction of the oil system, you need to establish its cause. There are few of them. clogging, broken hose or malfunction of the oil pump.

Most often, the oil supply channel is clogged with dirt and sawdust. Air blowing or fine wire cleaning is sufficient to correct the fault. The oil reservoir has its own internal filter. When using normal oil, clogging is unlikely, and when filling, it is quite possible. Have to clean up.

The oil hose may be damaged or completely cut off. You can temporarily seal the damaged area, but it will be safer to replace it with a new one.

And the most serious problem is the breakdown of the oil pump. The reasons may be different. the teeth of the worm gear are worn out, the plunger has jammed, and others. Removing the pump and replacing a damaged part yourself will not be easy. It is safer and easier to contact the service center.