The Essential Guide to Chains for Saws: Sharpening, Replacing, and Maintenance

Introduction

Chainsaws are essential tools for arborists, landscapers, and homeowners alike. However, to ensure optimal performance and safety, it is crucial to properly maintain the chainsaw chain. This comprehensive guide will provide you with everything you need to know about chains for saws, including sharpening, replacing, and routine maintenance.

Types of Chains for Saws

There are two main types of chainsaw chains:

• Pitch: The distance between three consecutive rivets on the chain. Common pitches include 0.325, 0.375, and 0.404 inches.
• Gauge: The thickness of the drive links. Standard gauges include 0.043, 0.050, and 0.058 inches.

Sharpening Chains for Saws

Regular sharpening is essential for maintaining the cutting efficiency of chainsaw chains. Here's a step-by-step guide:

1. Secure the Chain: Clamp the chain securely in a sharpening jig or vise.
2. File the Teeth: Using a round file of the correct diameter, file the cutting edges of the teeth at a 30-45 degree angle.
3. Maintain a Consistent Angle: Keep the file at a constant angle throughout the sharpening process to ensure even filing.
4. Check the Depth Gauge: After filing the cutting edges, use a depth gauge to ensure that the depth gauges are not too high.
5. Clean and Lubricate: Brush off any metal filings and apply a thin layer of chain oil to lubricate the chain.

Replacing Chains for Saws

When a chain becomes excessively worn or damaged, it needs to be replaced. Here's how to replace a chainsaw chain:

1. Unplug the Saw: Ensure that the chainsaw is unplugged and cooled down before proceeding.
2. Remove the Bar and Chain: Loosen the bar nuts and remove the guide bar and chain as a unit.
3. Replace the Chain: Lay the new chain on the bar and align the drive links with the sprocket.
4. Tighten the Bar: Hold the bar and chain together and tighten the bar nuts securely.
5. Adjust the Tension: Use a screwdriver or wrench to adjust the tension of the chain until it has about 1/16" of play.

Maintenance of Chains for Saws

Proper maintenance is crucial for prolonging the life of chainsaw chains. Follow these tips:

• Clean the Chain Regularly: Use a brush or compressed air to remove dirt and debris from the chain.
• Lubricate the Chain: Apply chain oil before, during, and after use to reduce friction and prevent wear.
• Inspect the Chain: Check for loose or damaged fasteners, cracked or bent drive links, and excessive wear on the teeth.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Sharpening at the Wrong Angle: Filing the teeth at an incorrect angle can damage the chain and reduce cutting efficiency.
• Not Checking the Depth Gauge: Incorrect depth gauge height can lead to over-cutting or binding of the chain.
• Over-Tightening the Chain: Excessive chain tension can put stress on the bar, sprocket, and chain, leading to premature wear.
• Using Dull or Damaged Files: Using files that are dull or damaged can result in uneven sharpening.

Pros and Cons of Different Chains for Saws

Stories and What We Learn

Story 1: A homeowner accidentally damaged his chainsaw chain while cutting through a nail-embedded board. He learned the importance of inspecting wood before cutting and using a metal-detecting chainsaw to avoid damaging the chain.

Story 2: A professional arborist noticed excessive chain stretch during a routine inspection. He realized the chain had not been properly lubricated and tightened, leading to premature wear. This taught him the importance of regular maintenance and the consequences of neglecting it.

Story 3: A landscaper was working on a steep slope when his chainsaw suddenly stopped cutting. He discovered that the chain had slipped off the bar due to insufficient tension. He learned the importance of adjusting chain tension regularly to prevent accidents.

Tips and Tricks

• Use a file guide to ensure consistent angles when sharpening teeth.
• Replace the bar and chain as a unit to maintain proper alignment.
• Soak the chain in a solvent to remove stubborn dirt and grease.
• Store the chain in a dry place to prevent rusting.

Tables for Chains for Saws

Table 1: Common Chainsaw Chain Pitches and Gauges

Table 2: Recommended Chain Oil Types

Table 3: Average Cost of Chains for Saws