Your Chainsaw Chain Oiler Isn’t Working? Here’s Why!

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Updated in April 2025 | By John

Chainsaw Chain Oiler Not Working

As a chainsaw repair professional, I have seen firsthand the frustration and inconvenience that can be caused by a chainsaw chain oiler that is not working properly. A malfunctioning chain oiler can quickly lead to a dull chain, which can be dangerous and inefficient. In addition, a chainsaw that is not properly lubricated can damage the engine and other components.

If you are experiencing problems with your chainsaw chain oiler, it is important to troubleshoot the issue and resolve it as quickly as possible. By following the steps in this guide, you can quickly diagnose and fix the problem, and get your chainsaw back up and running in no time.

In this guide, I will discuss the common causes of a , and provide step-by-step instructions on how to troubleshoot and repair the problem. I will also provide tips on how to prevent future problems with your chainsaw chain oiler.

Why Chainsaw Chain Oiler Not Working

Chain Oiler Not Working

Oil reservoir is empty. The most common reason for a chainsaw chain oiler not working is that the oil reservoir is empty. To check the oil reservoir, remove the oil cap and look inside. If the reservoir is empty, fill it with the correct type of oil.
Oil line is clogged. The oil line can become clogged with sawdust or other debris, preventing the oil from reaching the chain. To check the oil line, remove the oil cap and look inside the oil tank. If you see a clog, you can try to clear it with a small wire or a toothpick. If the clog is too large, you may need to replace the oil line.
Oil pump is not working. The oil pump is responsible for pumping oil from the reservoir to the chain. If the oil pump is not working, the chain will not be lubricated properly. To check the oil pump, start the chainsaw and listen for the sound of the pump. If you do not hear the pump running, you may need to replace it.
Chainsaw is not tilted properly. The chainsaw chain oiler works by gravity. If the chainsaw is not tilted properly, the oil will not flow to the chain. To ensure that the oil flows properly, tilt the chainsaw so that the bar is parallel to the ground.
Chainsaw chain is too tight. If the chainsaw chain is too tight, it will not be able to move freely and the oil will not be able to reach the chain. To check the chain tension, hold the chainsaw with the bar parallel to the ground. The chain should have about 1/8 inch of play between the chain and the bar. If the chain is too tight, loosen the chain tensioner until there is 1/8 inch of play.

How to fix a chainsaw chain oiler

To fix a chainsaw chain oiler, you will need to identify the cause of the problem and then take the appropriate steps to fix it.

If the oil reservoir is empty, fill it with the correct type of oil.
If the oil line is clogged, try to clear the clog with a small wire or a toothpick. If the clog is too large, you may need to replace the oil line.
If the oil pump is not working, you may need to replace it.
If the chainsaw is not tilted properly, tilt the chainsaw so that the bar is parallel to the ground.
If the chainsaw chain is too tight, loosen the chain tensioner until there is 1/8 inch of play.

How to Troubleshoot: Chainsaw Chain Oiler Not Working

A chainsaw chain oiler is an important part of your chainsaw. It helps to keep the chain lubricated, which prevents it from overheating and wearing out prematurely. If your chainsaw chain oiler is not working properly, it can cause the chain to become dry and gummy, which can lead to damage to the chain and the chainsaw itself.

Symptoms of a Chainsaw Chain Oiler Not Working

There are a few signs that can indicate that your chainsaw chain oiler is not working properly. These include:

The chain is dry and gummy.
The chain is making a loud screeching noise.
The chain is smoking.
The chain is skipping or jumping.

Troubleshooting a Chainsaw Chain Oiler

If you suspect that your chainsaw chain oiler is not working properly, you can try troubleshooting it yourself. Here are a few things you can check:

Check the oil level. The oil level in the chain oiler should be between the full and add marks. If the oil level is low, add more oil to the reservoir.
Check the oil line. The oil line should be clear and free of obstructions. If the oil line is clogged, clean it out with a small brush.
Check the oil pump. The oil pump should be moving freely. If the oil pump is not moving, you may need to replace it.

Preventing Chainsaw Chain Oiler Problems

You can help prevent chainsaw chain oiler problems by following these tips:

Keep the oil level in the reservoir full.
Clean the oil line regularly.
Inspect the oil pump regularly and replace it if necessary.

By following these tips, you can help keep your chainsaw chain oiler working properly and extend the life of your chainsaw.

FAQs: Chainsaw Chain Oiler Not Working

Why is my chainsaw chain oiler not working?

There are a few possible reasons why your chainsaw chain oiler might not be working. Here are some of the most common:

The oiler is not properly adjusted. The oiler should be adjusted so that it drips a small amount of oil onto the chain every few seconds. If the oiler is not adjusted correctly, it may not be putting out enough oil to keep the chain lubricated.
The oiler is clogged. The oiler can become clogged with dirt and debris, which can prevent it from working properly. If you think the oiler is clogged, you can try cleaning it with a small brush or needle.
The oiler is leaking. If the oiler is leaking, it will not be able to put oil on the chain. You can check for leaks by looking under the chainsaw and seeing if there is any oil leaking out. If you find a leak, you will need to replace the oiler.
The oil is too thick. The oiler is designed to work with a specific type of oil. If you are using oil that is too thick, it will not flow through the oiler properly and will not be able to lubricate the chain.
The chainsaw is not being used properly. If you are not using the chainsaw properly, it can cause the chain oiler to malfunction. For example, if you are running the chainsaw at too high of a speed, it can cause the oiler to overheat and stop working.

How do I adjust the chainsaw chain oiler?

To adjust the chainsaw chain oiler, you will need to follow these steps:

1. Turn off the chainsaw and allow it to cool down.
2. Locate the oiler adjustment screw. The oiler adjustment screw is usually located on the side of the chainsaw, near the chain.
3. Use a small screwdriver to turn the oiler adjustment screw. Turning the screw clockwise will increase the amount of oil that is dispensed, and turning the screw counterclockwise will decrease the amount of oil that is dispensed.
4. Test the oiler by running the chainsaw for a few minutes. The oiler should drip a small amount of oil onto the chain every few seconds. If the oiler is not dripping enough oil, you may need to adjust the screw again.

How do I clean the chainsaw chain oiler?

To clean the chainsaw chain oiler, you will need to follow these steps:

1. Turn off the chainsaw and allow it to cool down.
2. Remove the oiler cover. The oiler cover is usually located on the side of the chainsaw, near the chain.
3. Use a small brush or needle to clean out the oiler. Be careful not to damage the oiler mechanism.
4. Reinstall the oiler cover.

What do I do if the chainsaw chain oiler is leaking?

If the chainsaw chain oiler is leaking, you will need to replace it. To replace the oiler, you will need to follow these steps:

1. Turn off the chainsaw and allow it to cool down.
2. Remove the old oiler. The old oiler is usually located on the side of the chainsaw, near the chain.
3. Install the new oiler. The new oiler should be the same type and size as the old oiler.
4. Start the chainsaw and test the oiler. The oiler should not leak any oil.

What type of oil should I use in my chainsaw chain oiler?

You should use a high-quality, synthetic chainsaw chain oil in your chainsaw chain oiler. Synthetic oil is designed to resist evaporation and breakdown, so it will keep your chain lubricated for longer periods of time. It is also less likely to gum up the oiler and cause it to malfunction.

Here are some tips for choosing the right chainsaw chain oil:

Choose an oil that is specifically designed for chainsaws. Not all oils are created equal, so it is important to choose an oil that is specifically designed for use in chainsaws.
Choose an oil that is compatible with your chainsaw. Some chainsaws require a specific type of oil, so it is important to check the owner’s manual to see what type of oil is recommended.
Choose an oil that has the correct viscosity. The viscosity of an oil refers to its thickness. Chainsaw chain oils are typically available in a variety of viscosities, so it is important to choose an oil that has the correct

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About The Author

I am John, and I am the creator of this website. I have been in the woodworking industry for about 5 years. I developed my passion for DIY projects around the house when I was in high school. I have discovered a new appreciation for those who have the experience to pass along their expertise. They know what works best and are able to help others. I am proud to be among them.

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