Having a broken chainsaw is an inconvenience. Having one that works when you need it is important! Chainsaws are useful tools for tree pruning, cutting firewood, and carpentry projects, but are not so useful if not properly maintained. It can also cost a great deal of money to get a broken chainsaw repaired. You can save a lot of time and money by repairing it yourself. For chainsaw repair you will need a blanket or large cloth, a chainsaw tightening tool, files to sharpen the blades, and any necessary replacement parts.

My Chainsaw’s Engine Does Not Start

If the engine will start at all, you might have a bad starter switch. Check to see that all connections to the starter switch are secure. Is the power cord cut or broken? Check to make sure that you have a proper power line connection. If all checks out except for the switch, go ahead and replace it. You may want to consider whether you are using the appropriate fuel mixture.

My Chainsaw Smokes

If there is smoke coming from the chain, it could be an indication that there is not enough lubrication. Without the proper lubrication, the chain and chain bar can become seriously damaged. Make sure there is oil in the reservoir. When you start the saw, the automatic oil pump should lubricate the chain and bar. To see if this is a problem, hold the saw tip over a light-colored surface, hit the throttle and look for oil spatters on the chain bar. If you see no oil splatters, turn the saw off. Remove the chain guide bar and see if the oil discharge slots are clogged with sawdust. Clean out the sawdust and restart the saw to check lubrication again.

The Chain Skips or Jumps

If the chain skips or jumps during operation, check the engine drive sprocket to make sure it is not worn. If you have a worn sprocket it will not allow the chain to sit properly. Also, check to make sure the chain tension is set correctly. Setting the chain tension is a part of continuous operation. However, a dull or damaged chain may also cause the skipping and jumping.

My Chainsaw Isn’t Cutting Properly

If the saw cuts at the wrong angle or shoots out a lot of sawdust, you probably need to sharpen the chain. A dull chain can be very dangerous. It can cause a kickback or chain jump that might break the chain and release pieces that could harm to the operator. If your chain is very shiny, you need to examine each cutter for damage. Use a file to sharpen the cutters.

The Chain Continues to Move or Stops

If the chain continues to move while the engine idles then you should check to make sure the idle is not set too high. If it stops while cutting, see if the brake is engaged.

My Chainsaw Loses Power

If the saw loses power while operating, check to make sure all electrical connections are secure. Any break in current may cause the saw to decrease in power, stall or shut down altogether.

When maintained, chainsaws are a great asset to any tool collection. Consult your user’s manual for questions specific to certain manufacturer types.