Chainsaw Sharpening Instructions

The first rule in chainsaw sharpening is to carefully follow the chainsaw sharpening instructions.

The first rule in chainsaw sharpening is to carefully follow the chainsaw sharpening instructions. The chainsaw must be cleaned carefully with mineral spirits or detergent to remove all traces of dirt and grime. While cleaning the saw look for any damage to its teeth.

If the length of the top plate - the flat surface on the top of each tooth - is not ¼ inch then it’s probably better to replace the chainsaw rather than sharpen it.

If you’re satisfied the condition of the chainsaw is good enough to sharpen then it’s time to choose the files or chainsaw sharpeners you’ll need. It’s important that they be the right size.

To check, measure the chainsaw and its teeth and then choose appropriate diameters of the files or sharpeners you’ll be using. Before attempting to sharpen the chainsaw make sure you have a solid surface like a workbench on which to place it.

The bar of the chainsaw must be held by a vise, or similar holding device, capable of holding it firmly between two strong jaws while allowing the chain to rotate freely.

Locate the lead cutter, which is the shortest cutter, and begin with it. In the event all of the cutters on your chainsaw are the same length, you can begin with any one of them.

Make sure that you sharpen the chainsaw so that the flat surface of each of the cutters is the same length. To properly position the file look for a notch on the front of the cutter.

Place the file at the same angle as that of the cutter to be ground, typically an angle of 25 degrees. Then slide the file across the cutter’s face.

Push it from the short side of the angle to the long point on the tip, remembering to maintain the same angle for each tooth. Keep the number of strokes for each tooth the same as well.

You’ll find that three to five strokes per tooth will usually be adequate. Sharpen the other side of the chainsaw by following the same procedure.

Proper Care and Maintenance of Your Chainsaw Although sharpening is important, proper chainsaw maintenance also requires attention to other factors.

It’s important to remember to check the condition of your chainsaw’s teeth before each use. Also check that the chain is properly adjusted and is not too loose, or too tight.

A brush should be used to clean the surface of the object you’re going to be cutting if you can. Dirt, grime, small rocks and gritty debris can dull your chainsaw so try to remove these from the objects surface before you begin sawing.

Being careful to cut clean surfaces only will also make your future sharpening quicker and easier. After each use you may clean your chainsaw’s air filter, but for any more complicated engine issues you should seek out professional servicing.

It’s a lot cheaper to properly maintain your chainsaw than to replace it, and with proper care, including sharpening, your chainsaw will give you many years of safe, dependable service.

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