Earthwise 16 Corded Chainsaw: Tool-Less Tensioning Fail?

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Updated in June 2025 | By John

Earthwise 16 Corded Chainsaw Tool-Less Tensioning Not Working

As a chainsaw owner, you know that a properly-tensioned chain is essential for safety and performance. When the chain is too loose, it can jump off the bar, causing serious injury. A too-tight chain can damage the bar and sprockets.

If your Earthwise 16-inch corded chainsaw’s tool-less tensioning system isn’t working properly, it can be a major inconvenience. You may not be able to use your chainsaw until the problem is fixed.

In this guide, I’ll walk you through the steps to troubleshoot and resolve the issue of your Earthwise chainsaw’s tool-less tensioning system not working. I’ll also provide tips on how to prevent this problem from happening in the future.

Most Common Reasons Of Earthwise 16 Corded Chainsaw Tool-Less Tensioning Not Working

Most Common Reasons Of Earthwise 16 Corded Chainsaw Tool-Less Tensioning Not Working

1. Chain is too tight

If the chain is too tight, it will not be able to move freely on the bar and will cause the tool-less tensioning system to not work properly. To check if the chain is too tight, try to move it up and down on the bar. If it is difficult to move, loosen the tensioning screw until it is easier to move.

2. Chain is too loose

If the chain is too loose, it will not be able to stay on the bar and will cause the tool-less tensioning system to not work properly. To check if the chain is too loose, try to move it up and down on the bar. If it is too easy to move, tighten the tensioning screw until it is snug against the bar.

3. Bar is bent

If the bar is bent, it will not be able to hold the chain properly and will cause the tool-less tensioning system to not work properly. To check if the bar is bent, try to sight down the bar from the tip to the handle. If the bar is not straight, it will need to be straightened before the tool-less tensioning system can be used.

4. Chain guide is damaged

If the chain guide is damaged, it will not be able to guide the chain properly and will cause the tool-less tensioning system to not work properly. To check if the chain guide is damaged, look for any cracks or damage to the guide. If the guide is damaged, it will need to be replaced before the tool-less tensioning system can be used.

5. Tensioning screw is damaged

If the tensioning screw is damaged, it will not be able to properly tighten or loosen the chain and will cause the tool-less tensioning system to not work properly. To check if the tensioning screw is damaged, try to turn it. If it is difficult to turn or if it is stripped, it will need to be replaced before the tool-less tensioning system can be used.

How to Troubleshoot: Earthwise 16 Corded Chainsaw Tool-less Tensioning Not Working

Symptoms

If the tool-less tensioning on your Earthwise 16 corded chainsaw is not working, you may experience the following symptoms:

The chain is loose and does not stay tight
The chain is difficult to start
The chain skips or jumps while cutting
The chain derails

Causes

There are a few possible causes for the tool-less tensioning on your Earthwise 16 corded chainsaw not working:

The chain brake is engaged
The chain oiler is not working properly
The chain is damaged
The chainsaw is not properly lubricated
The chainsaw is out of alignment

Solutions

To troubleshoot the issue, you will need to first identify the cause. Here are some solutions for each of the possible causes:

If the chain brake is engaged, release the brake by pressing the lever located on the side of the chainsaw.
If the chain oiler is not working properly, clean the oiler and replace the oil filter. You may also need to adjust the oil flow rate.
If the chain is damaged, replace the chain.
If the chainsaw is not properly lubricated, apply a light coat of chain oil to the chain and bar.
If the chainsaw is out of alignment, adjust the chain guide bar.

Prevention

To prevent the tool-less tensioning on your Earthwise 16 corded chainsaw from not working, you can take the following steps:

Keep the chain clean and lubricated
Inspect the chain regularly for damage
Align the chain guide bar properly
Use the chainsaw according to the manufacturer’s instructions

By following these tips, you can help to ensure that your Earthwise 16 corded chainsaw continues to perform at its best.

FAQs: Earthwise 16 Corded Chainsaw Tool-less Tensioning Not Working

Why is the tool-less tensioning on my Earthwise 16 corded chainsaw not working?

There are a few possible reasons why the tool-less tensioning on your Earthwise 16 corded chainsaw may not be working.

The chain is too tight. If the chain is too tight, it will not be able to move freely on the bar and the tool-less tensioning system will not be able to work properly. To check if the chain is too tight, try to move it back and forth on the bar. If it is difficult to move, loosen the tensioning screw until the chain moves more freely.
The chain is too loose. If the chain is too loose, it will not be able to stay on the bar and the tool-less tensioning system will not be able to work properly. To check if the chain is too loose, try to pull on it. If it comes off the bar easily, tighten the tensioning screw until the chain is snug against the bar.
The tool-less tensioning system is damaged. If the tool-less tensioning system is damaged, it will not be able to work properly. If you suspect that the tool-less tensioning system is damaged, you should take your chainsaw to a qualified service center for repairs.

How do I adjust the tool-less tensioning on my Earthwise 16 corded chainsaw?

To adjust the tool-less tensioning on your Earthwise 16 corded chainsaw, follow these steps:

1. Turn off the chainsaw and allow it to cool down.
2. Remove the chain cover.
3. Locate the tensioning screw. It is a small, hex-shaped screw located near the front of the chainsaw.
4. Use a 5/32-inch hex wrench to turn the tensioning screw clockwise to tighten the chain or counterclockwise to loosen the chain.
5. Reinstall the chain cover.
6. Start the chainsaw and test the chain tension. The chain should be snug against the bar, but it should still be able to move freely.

What should I do if my Earthwise 16 corded chainsaw chain keeps coming off?

If your Earthwise 16 corded chainsaw chain keeps coming off, there are a few possible causes:

The chain is too loose. If the chain is too loose, it will not be able to stay on the bar and will come off easily. To fix this, tighten the chain tensioning screw until the chain is snug against the bar.
The bar is bent. If the bar is bent, it will not be able to hold the chain properly and the chain will come off easily. To fix this, you will need to straighten the bar.
The chain is worn out. If the chain is worn out, it will not be able to stay on the bar and will come off easily. To fix this, you will need to replace the chain.

How do I sharpen the chain on my Earthwise 16 corded chainsaw?

To sharpen the chain on your Earthwise 16 corded chainsaw, follow these steps:

1. Turn off the chainsaw and allow it to cool down.
2. Remove the chain cover.
3. Locate the guide bar. It is a long, flat metal bar that the chain runs on.
4. Use a chainsaw file to sharpen the teeth on the chain. The teeth should be sharpened at a 30-degree angle.
5. Reinstall the chain cover.
6. Start the chainsaw and test the chain. The chain should cut through wood smoothly.

How do I maintain my Earthwise 16 corded chainsaw?

To maintain your Earthwise 16 corded chainsaw, follow these tips:

Inspect the chainsaw before each use. Look for any damage or wear and tear. If you find any damage, have the chainsaw repaired or replaced before using it.
Keep the chainsaw clean. Clean the chainsaw after each use to remove dirt, dust, and debris. This will help to prevent the chainsaw from becoming damaged.
Lubricate the chainsaw regularly. Lubricate the chainsaw according to the manufacturer’s instructions. This will help to keep the chainsaw running smoothly.
Store the chainsaw in a safe place. Store the chainsaw in a dry, cool place when not in use. This will help to prevent the chainsaw from becoming damaged.

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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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