Friday, August 9, 2013

How to Clean a Chainsaw

You take pride in your work and you should also take pride in your tools. Regularly cleaning your chainsaw is important for keeping the chainsaw running smoothly, not mention keeping it from stalling in the middle of a job. Here's what you'll need to get your saw as clean as the day you bought it:

  • Air compressor
  • A set of chainsaw tools
  • General cleaner
  • Air filter cleaner
  • A towel or rag

1. Remove the drivetrain cover and remove the chainsaw chain & bar: There's not a whole lot of room for sawdust to escape in the drivetrain, so it's likely this will be an area you will have to clean more often. Use an air compressor to blow out all the dirt, dust, and grime in both the sprocket and clutch area and on the drivetrain cover. It doesn't hurt to give the chainsaw bar a quick cleaning as well.

2. Remove the oil port plate: Some compressed air should clean this area out quickly.

3. Remove the clutch cover and clean the components: Carefully unscrew and pry off the plastic clutch cover and blow out the area. Remove the sprocket and clean it off. Disassemble the clutch being careful to keep track of all the pieces, and add some bearing lubrication to the clutch bearing axle. Carefully reassemble these parts when you're done cleaning.

4. Remove the muffler: Unscrew the muffler and clean out the screen. Reassemble when you're done.

5. Clean or replace the air filter: Remove the intake cover and blow off the air filter. Remove the air filter cover and check to make sure the filter isn't damaged. If it is, you'll have to replace it. If it isn't, blow out the air filter from the inside with compressed air, and use air filter cleaner to make sure you remove any stubborn pieces. Air filter lube will also ensure that air will flow freely through the filter and keep debris from sticking to it. Reassemble the intake when you're done.

6. Reassemble the bar and the chain: Finally, put the chainsaw bar and chain back on the saw. It's important to set up your saw with proper chain tension to avoid any mishaps while running your saw.

Now your saw should be ready for any job. If along the way you find any parts that are damaged or have excessive wear, HL Supply has a variety of chainsaw parts for just about any saw you might need.