Chainsaw Chain Keeps Getting Tight Why and What to Do
Your chainsaw is a powerful tool that can make quick work of cutting through wood. But when the chain keeps getting tight, it can be a real pain. Not only is it more difficult to use, but it can also be dangerous.
In this article, we’ll take a look at why your chainsaw chain might be getting tight and what you can do to fix it. We’ll also provide some tips on how to prevent this problem from happening in the future.
Why Does My Chainsaw Chain Keep Getting Tight
There are a few reasons why your chainsaw chain might be getting tight.
The chain is too tight:
The chain should be able to move freely on the bar, but it shouldn’t be so loose that it falls off. If the chain is too tight, it will cause excessive wear on the bar and chain and make it difficult to operate the saw.
The bar is worn out:
As the bar wears out, it will become wider and the chain will become tighter. If the bar is too worn, it will need to be replaced.
The chain is old or damaged:
A worn or damaged chain will not fit properly on the bar and will cause it to become tight. If the chain is damaged, it will need to be replaced.
Why Does My Chainsaw Chain Keep Getting Tight?
What Causes a Chainsaw Chain to Get Tight?
There are a few reasons why your chainsaw chain might be getting tight.
The chain is too loose:
If the chain is too loose, it will stretch and become tighter over time. To fix this, you need to tighten the chain according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
The chain is worn out:
As the chain wears out, it will stretch and become tighter. To fix this, you need to replace the chain with a new one.
The sprockets are worn out:
The sprockets are the gears that drive the chain. If the sprockets are worn out, they will not be able to grip the chain properly and the chain will become tighter. To fix this, you need to replace the sprockets.
The chain oil is too thick:
If the chain oil is too thick, it will create friction between the chain and the bar, which will cause the chain to become tighter. To fix this, you need to use a thinner chain oil.
The chain oil is not being applied properly:
If the chain oil is not being applied properly, it will not be able to lubricate the chain and the bar properly, which will cause the chain to become tighter. To fix this, you need to make sure that you are applying the chain oil correctly.
How to Prevent a Chainsaw Chain from Getting Tight
To prevent your chainsaw chain from getting tight, you can follow these tips:
Tighten the chain regularly:
Check the chain tension every time you use your chainsaw and tighten it as needed.
Replace the chain when it is worn out:
A worn out chain will stretch and become tighter over time. To prevent this, you need to replace the chain with a new one before it becomes too worn out.
Replace the sprockets when they are worn out:
Worn out sprockets will not be able to grip the chain properly and the chain will become tighter. To prevent this, you need to replace the sprockets when they are worn out.
Use the right type of chain oil:
Use a thin chain oil that will not create friction between the chain and the bar.
Apply the chain oil correctly:
Apply the chain oil to the chain and the bar before you start using your chainsaw. Make sure that you apply the oil evenly and that you do not over-apply it.
Troubleshooting a Tight Chainsaw Chain
If your chainsaw chain is getting tight, you can try the following troubleshooting steps:
Check the chain tension:
If the chain is too loose, it will stretch and become tighter over time. To fix this, you need to tighten the chain according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
Check the chain for wear and tear:
If the chain is worn out, it will stretch and become tighter over time. To fix this, you need to replace the chain with a new one.
Check the sprockets for wear and tear:
If the sprockets are worn out, they will not be able to grip the chain properly and the chain will become tighter. To fix this, you need to replace the sprockets.
Check the chain oil:
If the chain oil is too thick, it will create friction between the chain and the bar, which will cause the chain to become tighter. To fix this, you need to use a thinner chain oil.
Check the chain oil application:
If the chain oil is not being applied properly, it will not be able to lubricate the chain and the bar properly, which will cause the chain to become tighter. To fix this, you need to make sure that you are applying the chain oil correctly.
Also Read THis: Why Does My Chainsaw Chain Keep Loosening
FAQs: Why Does My Chainsaw Chain Keep Getting Tight?
Why is my chainsaw chain getting tight?
There are a few reasons why your chainsaw chain might be getting tight.
The chain is too loose: If the chain is too loose, it will stretch and become tighter over time. To fix this, you can tighten the chain according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
The chain is worn out: As the chain wears out, it will stretch and become tighter. To fix this, you can replace the chain with a new one.
The bar is bent: If the bar is bent, it will cause the chain to become tight. To fix this, you can straighten the bar or replace it with a new one.
The sprocket is worn out: The sprocket is the gear that drives the chain. If the sprocket is worn out, it will cause the chain to become tight. To fix this, you can replace the sprocket with a new one.
How do I stop my chainsaw chain from getting tight?
To prevent your chainsaw chain from getting tight, you can:
Tighten the chain according to the manufacturer’s instructions:
Replace the chain when it is worn out:
Straighten the bar if it is bent:
Replace the sprocket if it is worn out:
Keep the chainsaw clean and lubricated:
What happens if my chainsaw chain is too tight?
If your chainsaw chain is too tight, it can cause a number of problems, including:
The chain can come off the bar:
The chain can damage the bar:
The chain can damage the engine:
The chain can cause injuries to the operator:
How do I loosen my chainsaw chain?
To loosen your chainsaw chain, you can:
Use the chain tensioner: The chain tensioner is a lever or knob that is located on the side of the chainsaw. Turning the chain tensioner will loosen the chain.
Use a chainsaw file: A chainsaw file is a tool that is used to file the teeth of the chain. Filing the teeth will help to loosen the chain.
Replace the chain: If the chain is too worn out, it will need to be replaced. A new chain will be the correct size and will not be too tight.
How often should I clean and lubricate my chainsaw chain?
You should clean and lubricate your chainsaw chain after every use. This will help to prevent the chain from becoming too tight and will also help to extend the life of the chain.
To clean the chain, you can use a soft brush or cloth to remove any dirt or debris. To lubricate the chain, you can use a chainsaw chain oil.
