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Questions tagged [chainsaw]

42 questions
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votes
5 answers

What is the relative importance of cut-retardant safety gloves when using a chainsaw?

I am evaluating some cut-retardant gloves for use with a chainsaw. At first the idea of protecting my hands appealed to me, but later I couldn't really justify to myself why that purchase would make sense if the rest of my torso was…
Anonymous
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7
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1 answer

Can I repair a chain saw chain?

I have a chain saw (one of the ones for pruning trees) and the chain popped off. I went to put it back on but one of the teeth is damaged on the part that slides along the arm of the chain saw. It looks like it is only this single tooth that is…
Jeff Widmer
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5 answers

Should I stop to hand-sharpen my chainsaw, or bring extra chains?

If I'm going to spend the day in the woods with the chainsaw, my chain will get dull before I'm done. Should I learn to hand-file the cutters, and sharpen in the woods? Or should I bring a spare chain (or two!) and swap them out? I would get them…
Jay Bazuzi
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5 answers

Can I use common vegetable oil (e.g. rapeseed/canola) for chain-and-bar lubrication in a chainsaw?

I have just acquired a small battery powered chainsaw (Makita DUC245), and would like to use an eco-friendly and skin-friendly chain oil if possible. Lots of sources suggest the possibility of using vegetable-based oils, and I would like to do so. I…
heltonbiker
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6
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11 answers

Is it OK to use motor oil as bar oil in a chainsaw?

Someone told me that you can use motor oil in your chainsaw instead of bar oil. Is this a good idea? Will it cause problems over time?
Programmer
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6
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3 answers

Replacement chain looks different from factory chain

I have a Toro 60V 16-inch Chainsaw, model 51850. The Product Overview in the online manual lists the chain specs: Bar Length: 40.6 cm (16 inches) Chain Gauge: 0.043 inches Chain Pitch: 3/8 inch Chain Length: 56 links I purchased an Oregon R56…
User1974
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4
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2 answers

What to check when chainsaw chain won't move freely?

I was using a Husqvarna 440 chainsaw and ran into some trouble. I managed to get it stuck in a log. Once I got it out I had to adjust the chain tension, but then everything was OK again. A few minutes later, the chain derailed on me. I was able…
nuggethead
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4
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6 answers

Can I mix brands of chainsaw chains?

I have a Stihl 260 chainsaw, with a 3/8" chain and a 20" bar. What criteria do I need to apply when picking a second chainsaw chain?
Jay Bazuzi
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4
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2 answers

Are chainsaw helmets meant to protect you from the saw, or just falling debris?

I'm trying to get the correct protective equipment for a chainsaw. I see helmets that look like this being sold for chainsaw use, but it's not clear if they are meant to protect your face from the running saw in the event of kickback, or if they…
Nick
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3
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5 answers

Does the number of links of a chainsaw chain affect the sprocket?

How does the gauge of the chain effect the drive sprocket? I bought a new bar and chain, the pitch is .325, the sprocket is .325 and gauge is .063, but the number of links is 81 instead of 74. Will it work?
allan
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3 answers

Why is this chainsaw collecting debris?

I've recently bought a pole-chainsaw for trimming a macrocarpa pine hedge. After about 15 minutes usage the chain was slowing down noticeably, and the bar oil tank was almost empty, meaning it used 200 mL. Is this an error in my technique? Am I…
Criggie
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3
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1 answer

Filing chainsaw chain at 10° to provide the ripping function?

I have been unable to find a ripping chain for my chain saw (70 drive links, pitch .325" LP, gauge 0.043") and the chain saw distributor confirmed there are none available. However, they have suggested that I take a regular (i.e. crosscut) chain…
Greendrake
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3
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1 answer

What could cause a chainsaw chain to stop moving?

I have a 40cc Craftsman 18" chainsaw, and was cutting and the chain stopped moving. Earlier it would rotate freely when I started it, even without pulling the trigger. Now it does not move at all. I'm nervous to pull it too hard, and wonder if…
Daniel Williams
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2
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3 answers

How can I safely remove a large fallen tree?

I have a large tree that has fallen on my property, and it is currently supported on opposite ends, like this: The bulk of the tree that was beyond the fence, off to the right, was already removed by the county. IOW, you can see 99% of what…
Chowzen
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3 answers

What would cause a chainsaw to only start when trigger is pulled?

I have a ~1yo Husqvarna chainsaw. It used to start on the first pull. Now it will only start if I'm also pulling the "trigger" that is used to run the chain. If I prime it, pull the choke, and pull the starter cord, it will not start. But if I…
Daniel
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