Earthwise 16 Corded Chainsaw: Tooless Tensioning Fail?

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Updated in April 2025 | By John

Earthwise 16 Corded Chainsaw Tooless Tensioning Not Working

As a chainsaw owner, you know that a dull chain can be a major pain. Not only does it make cutting through wood more difficult, but it can also be dangerous. That’s why it’s important to keep your chainsaw chain properly tensioned.

On Earthwise 16-inch corded chainsaws, the chain tensioning system is designed to be tool-less. This means that you can adjust the chain tension without having to use any tools. However, there are a few common problems that can prevent the tool-less tensioning system from working properly.

In this guide, I will discuss the most common causes of Earthwise 16-inch corded chainsaw tool-less tensioning not working and how to troubleshoot and resolve each issue. By following these steps, you can quickly and easily diagnose and resolve the problem, so you can get back to using your chainsaw.

Most Common Reasons Of Earthwise 16 Corded Chainsaw Tooless Tensioning Not Working

1. Loose Pulley

The most common reason for the toolless tensioning system on an Earthwise 16-inch corded chainsaw not working is a loose pulley. This can be caused by wear and tear, or by incorrect assembly. To fix this problem, you will need to remove the chain cover and inspect the pulley. If it is loose, you can tighten it by turning the locking nut clockwise.

2. Damaged Chain

Another common cause of the toolless tensioning system not working is a damaged chain. This can happen if the chain is worn out, or if it has been damaged by a foreign object. To fix this problem, you will need to replace the chain.

3. Misaligned Chain

The chain on an Earthwise 16-inch corded chainsaw can become misaligned if it is not properly installed. This can cause the chain to bind up and the toolless tensioning system to not work properly. To fix this problem, you will need to realign the chain by loosening the tensioning screws and then re-tightening them.

4. Clogged Oiler

The oiler on an Earthwise 16-inch corded chainsaw helps to keep the chain lubricated and prevents it from overheating. If the oiler becomes clogged, it can cause the chain to become dry and damaged. To fix this problem, you will need to clean the oiler by removing the oiler cover and using a small brush to remove any debris.

5. Faulty Tensioning System

In some cases, the toolless tensioning system on an Earthwise 16-inch corded chainsaw may be faulty. This can be caused by a manufacturing defect, or by damage to the system. If you suspect that the tensioning system is faulty, you will need to contact the manufacturer for a replacement.

How to Troubleshoot: Earthwise 16 Corded Chainsaw Toolless Tensioning Not Working

Symptoms

The chain is loose on the bar.
The chain is difficult to turn.
The chain is jumping off the bar.
The chainsaw is making a loud noise.

Causes

The chain is not properly tensioned.
The bar is bent.
The chain is worn out.
The chainsaw is not properly lubricated.

Solutions

1. Check the chain tension. The chain should be tight enough so that it does not fall off the bar, but not so tight that it is difficult to turn. To check the tension, hold the chainsaw with the chain off the ground. The chain should be able to move about 1/8 of an inch up and down. If the chain is too loose, tighten it by turning the tensioning screw clockwise. If the chain is too tight, loosen it by turning the tensioning screw counterclockwise.
2. Check the bar. If the bar is bent, it will need to be replaced. To check the bar, hold the chainsaw with the chain off the ground. The bar should be straight. If the bar is bent, you can try to straighten it by using a vice. If you are unable to straighten the bar, you will need to replace it.
3. Check the chain. If the chain is worn out, it will need to be replaced. To check the chain, look for any broken or missing teeth. If the chain is worn out, you will need to replace it.
4. Lubricate the chainsaw. The chainsaw should be lubricated regularly to prevent the chain from becoming dry and gummy. To lubricate the chainsaw, apply a light coat of chain oil to the bar and chain.

Prevention

To prevent problems with your Earthwise 16 corded chainsaw, you should:

Properly tension the chain.
Keep the bar straight.
Replace the chain when it is worn out.
Lubricate the chainsaw regularly.

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

FAQs

Why is the toolless tensioning not working on my Earthwise 16-inch corded chainsaw?

There are a few possible reasons why the toolless tensioning system on your Earthwise 16-inch corded chainsaw might 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 toolless tensioning system will not be able to work properly. To check if the chain is too tight, follow these steps:
1. Turn off the chainsaw and allow it to cool down.
2. Release the chain brake.
3. Use a ruler or tape measure to measure the distance between the top of the chain and the bottom of the bar. The distance should be between 0.031 and 0.047 inches.
4. If the distance is not within the specified range, loosen the chain tensioning screw until the distance is correct.
The chain is too loose. If the chain is too loose, it will not be able to stay on the bar, and the toolless tensioning system will not be able to work properly. To check if the chain is too loose, follow these steps:
1. Turn off the chainsaw and allow it to cool down.
2. Release the chain brake.
3. Use a ruler or tape measure to measure the distance between the top of the chain and the bottom of the bar. The distance should be between 0.016 and 0.024 inches.
4. If the distance is not within the specified range, tighten the chain tensioning screw until the distance is correct.
The chain is damaged. If the chain is damaged, it will not be able to move freely on the bar, and the toolless tensioning system will not be able to work properly. To check if the chain is damaged, follow these steps:
1. Inspect the chain for any signs of damage, such as broken or missing links, kinks, or burrs.
2. If you find any damage, replace the chain with a new one.
The bar is damaged. If the bar is damaged, it will not be able to hold the chain properly, and the toolless tensioning system will not be able to work properly. To check if the bar is damaged, follow these steps:
1. Inspect the bar for any signs of damage, such as cracks, gouges, or dents.
2. If you find any damage, replace the bar with a new one.
The toolless tensioning system is faulty. If the toolless tensioning system is faulty, it will not be able to work properly, regardless of the condition of the chain or bar. If you suspect that the toolless tensioning system is faulty, contact the manufacturer for assistance.

How do I adjust the toolless tensioning on my Earthwise 16-inch corded chainsaw?

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

1. Turn off the chainsaw and allow it to cool down.
2. Release the chain brake.
3. Locate the chain tensioning screw. It is a small, hex-shaped screw located on the side of the chainsaw housing.
4. Use a 5/32-inch hex wrench to turn the chain tensioning screw clockwise to tighten the chain or counterclockwise to loosen the chain.
5. Re-tighten the chain brake.
6. Test the chain tension by pulling on it with your hand. The chain should be tight enough to stay on the bar, but not so tight that it is difficult to move.

What are the benefits of a toolless tensioning system on a chainsaw?

There are several benefits to using a toolless tensioning system on a chainsaw.

Convenience. The toolless tensioning system makes it easy to adjust the chain tension without having to use any tools. This can save you time and frustration, especially if you are in the middle of a project.
Safety. Using a toolless tensioning system reduces the risk of injury, as you do not have to remove the chain from the bar to adjust the tension.
Durability. The toolless tensioning system is a durable design that is less likely to break or malfunction than a traditional chain tensioning system.

What are the disadvantages of a toolless tensioning system on a chainsaw?

There are a few potential disadvantages to

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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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