Craftsman Chainsaw Bar Oiler Not Working? Here’s the Fix!

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Updated in April 2025 | By John

Craftsman Chainsaw Bar Oiler Not Working

As a chainsaw repair professional, I’ve seen my fair share of chainsaw bar oiler problems. It’s one of the most common issues that chainsaw owners face, and it can be incredibly frustrating. Not only does it make it difficult to use your chainsaw properly, but it can also damage the saw if it’s not lubricated properly.

In this guide, I’ll walk you through the steps of troubleshooting a craftsman chainsaw bar oiler that’s not working. I’ll cover everything from the basics of how a bar oiler works to the most common problems that can cause it to malfunction. By the end of this guide, you’ll be able to quickly diagnose and resolve the issue, so you can get back to using your chainsaw without any problems.

Why Craftsman Chainsaw Bar Oiler Not Working

1. Oiler Hose is Clogged

The oiler hose can become clogged with sawdust and debris, preventing oil from reaching the chain. To fix this, remove the hose from the bar and clean it with a wire brush.

2. Oiler Pump is Not Working

The oiler pump can fail due to a number of reasons, including a broken spring, a clogged filter, or a faulty diaphragm. To check the pump, remove the oiler cover and look for any obvious damage. If you see damage, replace the pump. If you don’t see any damage, try cleaning the filter and diaphragm.

3. Oil Level is Low

If the oil level is low, the oiler will not be able to pump enough oil to the chain. To fix this, add oil to the reservoir until it reaches the full mark.

4. Oil is the Wrong Type

Using the wrong type of oil can cause the oiler to malfunction. Make sure you are using oil that is specifically designed for chainsaws.

5. Bar Oiler is Not Adjusted Correctly

The bar oiler can be adjusted to control the flow of oil to the chain. If the oiler is not adjusted correctly, the chain may not be getting enough oil. To adjust the oiler, follow the instructions in your chainsaw owner’s manual.

How to Troubleshoot: Craftsman Chainsaw Bar Oiler Not Working

Symptoms of a Craftsman Chainsaw Bar Oiler Not Working

There are a few different symptoms that can indicate that your Craftsman chainsaw bar oiler is not working properly. These include:

The bar oil reservoir is empty or low.
The bar oil is not flowing to the bar and chain.
The bar oil is leaking from the chainsaw.
The bar oil is not the correct type or viscosity for your chainsaw.

Troubleshooting a Craftsman Chainsaw Bar Oiler

If you are experiencing any of the symptoms listed above, you can try troubleshooting the bar oiler yourself. Here are a few steps to follow:

1. Check the bar oil reservoir. Make sure that the reservoir is full of oil. If it is empty or low, fill it up with the correct type and viscosity of oil.
2. Check the oil line. Make sure that the oil line is not kinked or blocked. If it is, straighten it out or remove the obstruction.
3. Check the oil pump. The oil pump is responsible for sending oil to the bar and chain. If the pump is not working properly, it will not be able to deliver oil to the bar and chain. To check the oil pump, start the chainsaw and listen for the oil pump running. You should be able to hear a faint whirring sound. If you do not hear the oil pump running, the pump may be defective and will need to be replaced.
4. Check the oil filter. The oil filter helps to keep contaminants out of the oil system. If the oil filter is clogged, it will restrict the flow of oil to the bar and chain. To check the oil filter, remove it from the chainsaw and inspect it for damage or clogging. If the filter is damaged or clogged, replace it with a new one.

If You Are Still Having Problems

If you have tried troubleshooting the bar oiler yourself and you are still having problems, it is best to take your chainsaw to a qualified service center for repairs. A qualified technician will be able to diagnose the problem and make the necessary repairs.

Preventing Craftsman Chainsaw Bar Oiler Problems

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

Keep the bar oil reservoir full.
Use the correct type and viscosity of oil.
Inspect the oil line regularly for kinks or obstructions.
Inspect the oil pump regularly for damage or wear.
Replace the oil filter regularly.

By following these tips, you can help keep your Craftsman chainsaw bar oiler running smoothly and efficiently.

FAQs: Craftsman Chainsaw Bar Oiler Not Working

Why is my Craftsman chainsaw bar oiler not working?

There are a few possible reasons why your Craftsman chainsaw bar oiler may not be working. Here are some of the most common causes:

The oiler is not turned on. Make sure that the oiler switch is in the On position.
The oiler is clogged. The oiler can become clogged with sawdust or other debris, which can prevent the oil from flowing properly. To clean the oiler, remove the oiler cover and clean the inside of the oiler with a small brush.
The oiler is not getting enough oil. The oiler may not be getting enough oil if the oil level is low. To check the oil level, remove the oiler cover and check the oil level. If the oil level is low, add more oil to the oiler.
The oiler hose is kinked or damaged. The oiler hose can become kinked or damaged, which can prevent the oil from flowing properly. To check the oiler hose, inspect it for kinks or damage. If the oiler hose is damaged, replace it with a new one.
The oiler pump is not working properly. The oiler pump can fail, which can prevent the oil from flowing properly. If you suspect that the oiler pump is not working properly, take your chainsaw to a qualified service center for repairs.

How do I fix my Craftsman chainsaw bar oiler?

To fix your Craftsman chainsaw bar oiler, you will need to identify the cause of the problem. Once you have identified the cause of the problem, you can follow the steps below to fix it:

Turn on the oiler. Make sure that the oiler switch is in the On position.
Clean the oiler. Remove the oiler cover and clean the inside of the oiler with a small brush.
Add more oil to the oiler. Check the oil level and add more oil to the oiler if necessary.
Check the oiler hose. Inspect the oiler hose for kinks or damage. If the oiler hose is damaged, replace it with a new one.
Take your chainsaw to a qualified service center. If you suspect that the oiler pump is not working properly, take your chainsaw to a qualified service center for repairs.

How often should I oil my Craftsman chainsaw bar?

You should oil your Craftsman chainsaw bar every time you use it. To oil the bar, remove the bar cover and apply a thin coat of bar oil to the bar and chain.

What kind of oil should I use for my Craftsman chainsaw bar?

You should use a high-quality bar oil for your Craftsman chainsaw bar. Bar oil is designed to lubricate the bar and chain and prevent them from overheating.

How much oil should I use for my Craftsman chainsaw bar?

You should use a thin coat of bar oil on the bar and chain. Too much oil can cause the bar and chain to become dirty and gummy. Too little oil can cause the bar and chain to overheat and wear out prematurely.

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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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