Ready to fire up that chainsaw? More than many tools in your arsenal, you should inspect this one often, and give it a little TLC now and then.
Keep your saw tuned up and sharp.
Sharpening takes a bit of work, but even if you have automatic sharpening, it should be done fairly regularly. File guides can help you out by holding the chain in position and aligning it correctly so you can file at the right angle.
Clean it regularly, and lubricate and adjust it according to your owner’s manual. Before each job, check it out. Make sure all the nuts are tight (but not too tight).
Check your chain tension. When the saw’s idle, the chain should hang a little bit from the bar, but not so loose that the chain guides aren’t contacting the bar.
Adjust the carburetor so that it’s not stalling, but not running so quickly as to drive the chain.
Clean the air filter after every job. Dust comes as part of the package, and a clogged filter will cause your saw to run poorly. Clean the area around the filter before removing it, otherwise debris could end up in the carburetor. Clean it as recommended in your manual, and replace it as necessary.
Clean the cooling fins to prevent overheating; use degreaser to help loosen built-up grime.
Keep all air inlet or exhaust screens free of dust.
Clean the muffler and exhaust ports regularly.
Check, clean and replace your spark plugs as necessary.
If you’re like most of us, your saw sees work only now and then. If you’re not going to use for a couple of months, store it properly. Clean it inside and out. Drain the fuel tank, then empty the fuel lines and carburetor by starting it up and letting it run till it stops. Drain the oil and remove the bar and chain. Submerge the chain in oil in an airtight container, and lightly coat the bar with oil before wrapping it in newspaper. Store it in a dry location.