Chainsaws are powerful tools that can make quick work of cutting through wood. But what happens when your chainsaw won’t cut
A dull chain is the most common cause of a chainsaw that won’t cut. But there are other reasons why your chainsaw might be having trouble, such as a dirty or clogged chain bar, a poorly adjusted chain tensioner, or a damaged chain.
In this article, we’ll discuss the most common reasons why chainsaws won’t cut and how to fix them. So if you’re having trouble with your chainsaw, read on for help!
Reasons Why Chainsaw Won’T Cut
10 reasons why your chainsaw won’t cut:
dull chain
low chain tension
dirty or clogged chain
misaligned chain
bad chain sprocket
bad bar oil
dirty engine
clogged air filter
bad spark plug
bad carburetor
Why Won’t My Chainsaw Cut?
1. Dull Chain
The most common reason why a chainsaw won’t cut is a dull chain. A dull chain will not be able to penetrate the wood properly, and will instead just skid across the surface. This can be a safety hazard, as it can cause the chainsaw to kick back.
To check if your chain is dull, take a look at the teeth. If they are rounded or have a burr on them, it’s time to sharpen them. You can sharpen your chain yourself using a chainsaw file, or you can take it to a professional.
2. Low Oil Level
Another common reason why a chainsaw won’t cut is a low oil level. The oil lubricates the chain and bar, and helps to prevent them from overheating. If the oil level is too low, the chain will not be able to move smoothly, and will eventually seize up.
To check the oil level, look at the sight glass on the side of the chainsaw. The oil level should be between the full and add marks. If the oil level is low, add oil to the chainsaw until it reaches the full mark.
3. Clogged Air Filter
A clogged air filter can also cause a chainsaw to not cut properly. The air filter prevents dust and debris from entering the engine, and if it becomes clogged, it will restrict the airflow to the engine. This can cause the engine to run poorly, and it may not be able to generate enough power to turn the chain.
To check the air filter, remove it from the chainsaw and inspect it for dirt and debris. If the filter is dirty, clean it with a brush or compressed air. If the filter is damaged, replace it with a new one.
4. Carburetor Problems
If your chainsaw has been sitting for a long time, or if it has been used in dirty conditions, the carburetor may become gummed up. This can cause the chainsaw to run poorly, and it may not be able to generate enough power to turn the chain.
To clean the carburetor, you will need to remove it from the chainsaw. Once the carburetor is removed, you can use a carburetor cleaner to clean the jets and passages. Be sure to follow the directions on the carburetor cleaner label.
5. Spark Plug Problems
A bad spark plug can also cause a chainsaw to not cut properly. The spark plug ignites the fuel in the engine, and if the spark plug is not working properly, the engine will not run properly.
To check the spark plug, remove it from the engine and inspect it for damage. If the spark plug is fouled or damaged, replace it with a new one.
Troubleshooting Tips
If you have checked all of the above and your chainsaw still won’t cut, here are a few troubleshooting tips:
Try adjusting the chain tension. If the chain is too tight, it will not be able to move smoothly. If the chain is too loose, it will be able to move too easily, and it may come off the bar.
Try cleaning the bar and chain. A dirty bar and chain can cause the chain to bind up, and it will not be able to cut properly.
Try replacing the bar and chain. If the bar and chain are worn out, they may not be able to cut properly.
If you have tried all of these troubleshooting tips and your chainsaw still won’t cut, it’s time to take it to a professional for service.
Also Read THis: Top Reasons Why My Chainsaw Won’T Start
FAQs: Why won’t my chainsaw cut?
Why is my chainsaw not cutting through wood?
There are a few possible reasons why your chainsaw may not be cutting through wood.
The chain is dull: The most common reason for a chainsaw not cutting through wood is a dull chain. A dull chain will not be able to penetrate the wood fibers as easily, and will therefore result in a lot of friction and heat. This can damage the chain and the chainsaw itself.
The chain is too tight: If the chain is too tight, it will not be able to move freely through the wood, and will again result in a lot of friction and heat.
The chain is too loose: If the chain is too loose, it will not be able to grip the wood properly, and will therefore not be able to cut through it.
The bar is bent: If the bar is bent, it will not be able to cut through the wood evenly. This can cause the chain to skip and jump, which can damage the chain and the chainsaw itself.
The chainsaw is not properly lubricated: A chainsaw that is not properly lubricated will not be able to cut through wood as efficiently. The lack of lubrication can cause the chain to heat up and become dull more quickly.
How do I sharpen a chainsaw chain?
To sharpen a chainsaw chain, you will need a chainsaw file and a chainsaw guide.
1. Remove the chain from the chainsaw:
2. Attach the chainsaw guide to the file:
3. Hold the file at a 45-degree angle to the chain:
4. File the chain in the direction of the cutting teeth:
5. Repeat steps 3 and 4 until all of the teeth are sharpened:
6. Reattach the chain to the chainsaw:
How do I adjust the chain tension?
To adjust the chain tension, you will need a chainsaw wrench.
1. Locate the chain tensioner on the chainsaw:
2. Turn the chain tensioner clockwise to tighten the chain or counterclockwise to loosen the chain:
3. Check the chain tension by pulling on the chain: The chain should be tight enough so that it does not sag, but not so tight that it is difficult to move.
4. Repeat steps 2 and 3 until the chain is properly tensioned:
How do I fix a bent chainsaw bar?
To fix a bent chainsaw bar, you will need a vice, a hammer, and a piece of wood.
1. Place the chainsaw bar in the vice:
2. Use the hammer to tap the bar back into shape:
3. Place a piece of wood between the bar and the vise to protect the bar from damage:
4. Continue tapping the bar until it is straight:
How do I lubricate a chainsaw?
To lubricate a chainsaw, you will need a chainsaw oil.
1. Locate the oil reservoir on the chainsaw:
2. Pour the oil into the reservoir until it reaches the fill line:
3. Start the chainsaw and let it run for a few minutes to distribute the oil:
Note: Be sure to use a chainsaw oil that is specifically designed for chainsaws. Using the wrong type of oil can damage the chainsaw.
