Chainsaw Chain Keeps Coming Loose Why & How to Fix It
Your chainsaw is a powerful tool that can be used for a variety of tasks, from cutting down trees to trimming branches. But when the chain keeps coming loose, it can be a major pain. Not only is it dangerous, but it can also make it difficult to use your chainsaw properly.
In this blog post, we’ll discuss why chainsaw chains come loose and how to fix them. We’ll also provide some tips for preventing future problems.
So if you’re tired of dealing with a loose chainsaw chain, read on for the solution!
Why Does Chainsaw Chain Keep Coming Loose
Why does chainsaw chain keep coming loose?
There are a few reasons why a chainsaw chain might keep coming loose.
Incorrect tension:
The chain is too loose or too tight.
Damaged chain:
The chain is worn out or damaged, and the links are no longer able to grip the bar properly.
Damaged bar:
The bar is worn out or damaged, and the teeth are no longer able to grip the chain properly.
Improper lubrication:
The chain and bar are not being properly lubricated, which can cause the chain to slip.
Maladjusted chain brake:
The chain brake is not adjusted properly, which can cause the chain to come loose when the brake is engaged.
Why Does Chainsaw Chain Keep Coming Loose?
Causes of a Loose Chainsaw Chain
There are a few different reasons why a chainsaw chain might keep coming loose. Here are some of the most common causes:
Improper tensioning:
The most common cause of a loose chainsaw chain is simply not having it properly tensioned. When the chain is too loose, it can jump off the sprockets and cause damage to the saw. To properly tension the chain, you will need to loosen the tensioning screw, move the chain up until it is snug against the bar, and then tighten the screw back down.
Worn out sprockets:
Another common cause of a loose chainsaw chain is worn out sprockets. The sprockets are the gears that the chain rides on, and as they wear down, they can no longer grip the chain tightly enough. This can cause the chain to come loose, even if it is properly tensioned. To check if your sprockets are worn out, you can look for signs of wear on the teeth, such as rounded edges or missing teeth. If your sprockets are worn out, you will need to replace them.
Damaged chain:
A damaged chain can also cause it to come loose. If the chain is bent or broken, it will not be able to grip the sprockets properly. To check if your chain is damaged, you can look for cracks in the links, missing teeth, or excessive wear. If your chain is damaged, you will need to replace it.
Incorrect bar oil:
Using the wrong type of bar oil can also cause a chainsaw chain to come loose. Bar oil is used to lubricate the chain and keep it from overheating. If you use the wrong type of bar oil, it can cause the chain to become gummy and sticky, which can lead to it coming loose. To avoid this problem, make sure you are using the correct type of bar oil for your chainsaw.
How to Tighten a Loose Chainsaw Chain
If your chainsaw chain is loose, you can tighten it by following these steps:
1. Turn off the chainsaw and disconnect the spark plug:
This will prevent the saw from starting accidentally while you are working on it.
2. Loosen the tensioning screw:
The tensioning screw is located on the side of the chainsaw, near the bar. Use a wrench to loosen the screw until you can move the chain up and down on the bar.3. Move the chain up until it is snug against the bar:
You should be able to move the chain up and down with a little bit of resistance, but it should not be too tight.
4. Tighten the tensioning screw:
Once the chain is in the correct position, tighten the tensioning screw back down. Be careful not to overtighten the screw, as this can damage the chain.
5. Start the chainsaw and test the chain:
Make sure the chain is properly tensioned by running the saw for a few seconds. The chain should not come loose while the saw is running.
Preventing a Loose Chainsaw Chain
The best way to prevent a loose chainsaw chain is to properly maintain your saw. This includes:
Tightening the chain regularly:
You should check the chain tension every time you use your saw. If the chain is loose, tighten it according to the instructions in your owner’s manual.
Replacing worn out sprockets:
Worn out sprockets can cause the chain to come loose, even if it is properly tensioned. Inspect your sprockets regularly and replace them if they are worn out.
Using the correct bar oil:
Using the wrong type of bar oil can cause the chain to become gummy and sticky, which can lead to it coming loose. Make sure you are using the correct type of bar oil for your chainsaw.
Following the manufacturer’s instructions:
Your chainsaw came with an owner’s manual. This manual contains important information on how to properly use and maintain your saw. Be sure to read and follow the instructions in your owner’s manual.
By following these tips, you can help prevent a loose chainsaw chain and keep your saw running smoothly.
Also Read THis: Why Does Chainsaw Chain Keep Coming Off
FAQs: Why Does Chainsaw Chain Keep Coming Loose?
What causes a chainsaw chain to come loose?
There are a few things that can cause a chainsaw chain to come loose. These include:
Improper tensioning: If the chain is not properly tensioned, it will be more likely to come loose. To check the tension, you can use a chain tension gauge. The chain should be tight enough so that it does not sag, but not so tight that it is difficult to turn the chainsaw.
Worn or damaged chain: A worn or damaged chain can also come loose. If the chain is worn, the teeth will be dull and will not grip the wood properly. This can cause the chain to jump off the bar. If the chain is damaged, it may have broken links or other problems that will prevent it from staying on the bar.
Dirty or clogged bar oiler: The bar oiler helps to keep the chain lubricated and cool. If the bar oiler is dirty or clogged, it will not be able to do its job properly and the chain will be more likely to come loose.
Incorrect bar size: Using a chain that is not the correct size for your chainsaw can also cause the chain to come loose. The chain should be the same pitch and width as the bar.
How can I prevent my chainsaw chain from coming loose?
There are a few things you can do to prevent your chainsaw chain from coming loose:
Properly tension the chain: Make sure that the chain is properly tensioned before you start using the chainsaw. You can use a chain tension gauge to check the tension.
Use a sharp chain: A sharp chain will grip the wood better and will be less likely to come loose.
Keep the bar oiler clean and working properly: The bar oiler helps to keep the chain lubricated and cool. Make sure that the bar oiler is clean and that it is working properly.
Use the correct bar size: Make sure that you are using a chain that is the correct size for your chainsaw. The chain should be the same pitch and width as the bar.
What should I do if my chainsaw chain comes loose?
If your chainsaw chain comes loose, you should stop using the chainsaw immediately. If the chain is still attached to the bar, you can try to tighten it by turning the tensioning screw. If the chain is not attached to the bar, you will need to remove the chain and re-tension it.
Here are the steps on how to remove and re-tension a chainsaw chain:
1. Turn off the chainsaw and disconnect the spark plug wire:
2. Place the chainsaw on a flat surface:
3. Use the chain brake to hold the chain still:
4. Loosen the tensioning screw until the chain is loose enough to remove:
5. Remove the chain from the bar:
6. Clean the bar and chain:
7. Re-tension the chain:
8. Re-attach the chain to the bar:
9. Reconnect the spark plug wire:
What are the safety risks of a chainsaw chain coming loose?
A chainsaw chain that comes loose can be a serious safety hazard. If the chain comes off the bar, it can fly off and hit you or someone else. This can cause serious injuries, including cuts, lacerations, and even amputations.
To avoid this safety risk, it is important to make sure that your chainsaw chain is properly tensioned and that you are using the correct bar size. You should also keep the bar oiler clean and working properly.
How can I avoid future problems with my chainsaw chain?
To avoid future problems with your chainsaw chain, you should:
Properly maintain your chainsaw: This includes keeping the chain sharp, the bar clean, and the bar oiler working properly.
Use the chainsaw for its intended purpose: Do not use a chainsaw to cut metal or other hard materials.
Be careful when using a chainsaw: Follow all safety precautions and wear the appropriate safety gear.
By following these tips, you can help to ensure that your chainsaw chain stays on the bar and that you stay safe.
