Chainsaw Throwing Chain A Brief Guide
Your chainsaw is throwing the chain, and you’re not sure why. You’ve tried everything you can think of, but nothing seems to be working. You’re starting to get frustrated, and you’re not sure what to do next.
Don’t worry, you’re not alone. Chainsaw throwing chains is a common problem, and there are a few simple things you can do to fix it. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the steps of diagnosing and fixing the problem. So, if your chainsaw is throwing the chain, read on for help!
Why Does My Chainsaw Keep Throwing The Chain
There are a few reasons why your chainsaw might be throwing the chain.
The chain is too loose:
If the chain is too loose, it can come off the sprocket and fly off the saw. To tighten the chain, follow the instructions in your chainsaw owner’s manual.
The chain is too sharp:
A sharp chain can also cause the chain to throw. To check the sharpness of the chain, use a file to remove any burrs or nicks.
The bar is bent:
If the bar is bent, it can cause the chain to jump off. To check for a bent bar, sight down the bar from the front and back. If the bar is not straight, it will need to be straightened or replaced.
The sprocket is worn:
A worn sprocket can cause the chain to jump off. To check the sprocket, look for any damage or wear. If the sprocket is worn, it will need to be replaced.
Why Does My Chainsaw Keep Throwing the Chain?
Chain Tension
One of the most common reasons for a chainsaw to throw its chain is incorrect chain tension. If the chain is too loose, it will be able to jump off the sprockets, while if it is too tight, it will be difficult to operate and may damage the chainsaw. To check the chain tension, follow these steps:
1. Turn off the chainsaw and allow it to cool down.
2. Rotate the bar until the chain is slack.
3. Use a chain tension gauge to measure the tension. The correct tension will vary depending on the type of chainsaw, but it should be between 25 and 35 pounds per inch.
4. If the chain is too loose, tighten it by turning the tensioning screw clockwise.
5. If the chain is too tight, loosen it by turning the tensioning screw counterclockwise.
Bar Oil
Another common cause of chain throwing is a lack of bar oil. Bar oil lubricates the chain and helps to prevent it from overheating and binding. If the bar oil level is low, the chain will be more likely to throw. To check the bar oil level, follow these steps:
1. Turn off the chainsaw and allow it to cool down.
2. Remove the bar cover.
3. Look at the bar oil level. The oil level should be between the full and add marks on the bar oil reservoir.
4. If the bar oil level is low, add more oil to the reservoir.
Chainsaw Chain
A worn or damaged chainsaw chain can also cause it to throw. If the chain is too long, it will be difficult to control and may jump off the sprockets. If the chain is too short, it will not be able to cut through wood properly and may also jump off the sprockets. To check the chain condition, follow these steps:
1. Inspect the chain for any damage, such as broken or missing links.
2. Check the chain for wear, such as a dull cutting edge or stretched links.
3. If the chain is damaged or worn, replace it with a new one.
Chainsaw Bar
A damaged chainsaw bar can also cause the chain to throw. If the bar is bent or damaged, it will not be able to properly guide the chain and may cause it to jump off the sprockets. To check the bar condition, follow these steps:
1. Inspect the bar for any damage, such as bends or cracks.
2. Check the bar for wear, such as a dull cutting edge or a worn guide bar nose.
3. If the bar is damaged or worn, replace it with a new one.
Chainsaw Maintenance
Proper chainsaw maintenance can help to prevent chain throwing. Be sure to:
Inspect the chainsaw before each use for any damage or wear.
Keep the chain properly tensioned.
Use the correct type of bar oil.
Replace the chain and bar as needed.
Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for proper maintenance.
By following these tips, you can help to prevent your chainsaw from throwing the chain.
Also Read THis: Why Does My Chainsaw Keep Turning Off
FAQs: Why Does My Chainsaw Keep Throwing the Chain?
What causes a chainsaw chain to throw?
There are a number of reasons why a chainsaw chain might throw. Some of the most common causes include:
Improper tensioning of the chain: If the chain is too loose, it will be more likely to come off the sprocket.
Dull chain: A dull chain will not grip the wood as well, which can cause it to jump off the sprocket.
Worn sprockets: Worn sprockets can cause the chain to jump off because they do not provide enough traction.
Dirty or damaged bar: A dirty or damaged bar can cause the chain to bind and jump off.
Incorrect bar alignment: If the bar is not aligned properly with the sprockets, it can cause the chain to jump off.
How can I prevent my chainsaw chain from throwing?
To prevent your chainsaw chain from throwing, you can take the following steps:
Properly tension the chain: The chain should be tight enough to stay on the sprocket, but not so tight that it is difficult to turn the chainsaw.
Sharpen the chain regularly: A dull chain is more likely to throw than a sharp chain.
Inspect the sprockets for wear and tear: Worn sprockets should be replaced as soon as possible.
Clean and maintain the bar regularly: A dirty or damaged bar can cause the chain to bind and jump off.
Check the bar alignment: Make sure the bar is aligned properly with the sprockets.
What should I do if my chainsaw chain throws?
If your chainsaw chain throws, you should immediately stop using the chainsaw and take the following steps:
Turn off the chainsaw and disconnect the spark plug wire:
Remove the chain from the chainsaw:
Inspect the chain for damage:
Inspect the sprockets for wear and tear:
Clean and maintain the bar:
Re-tension the chain:
Sharpen the chain:
Re-align the bar:
What if my chainsaw chain keeps throwing after I have taken these steps?
If your chainsaw chain keeps throwing after you have taken these steps, it may be time to take it to a qualified chainsaw service technician for repair.
How can I avoid chainsaw chain injuries?
To avoid chainsaw chain injuries, you should take the following precautions:
Wear proper safety gear, including a helmet, chaps, eye protection, and hearing protection:
Be aware of your surroundings and keep a firm grip on the chainsaw:
Never operate a chainsaw while under the influence of drugs or alcohol:
Never operate a chainsaw with a dull chain:
Keep the chain sharp and properly tensioned:
Inspect the chainsaw regularly for wear and tear:
Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for safe operation:
