There are a lot of people who would like to give using a chainsaw a try but find themselves put off by how much maintenance is needed for them – you may even be one of these people!
A frequently asked question among beginners is regarding how tight the chain should be.
After all, the last thing you want is to incorrectly install the chain on your brand-new chainsaw! In this article, I’ll take you through how to adjust and tighten the tension on your chainsaw, so you can use your saw safely and effectively.
But let’s answer the all-important question – how tight should a chainsaw chain be?
So How Tight Should A Chainsaw Chain Be?
Luckily, how tight a chainsaw chain should be will be something you develop an instinct for the more you use your chainsaw.
However, when you’re first starting off it is definitely a concern, and it’s all too easy to tighten a chain too much. Still, it is rare to not tighten a chain enough.
The right amount of tension will let you lift the chain around ⅛ off the chainsaw’s bar. You should do this with your thumb and forefinger, and of course, you need to be careful!
The chain should snap back as soon as you release it. This is the ideal amount of tension. It will most likely take a couple of times for you to get this right initially, but don’t worry, you’ll get it soon enough!
A top tip is to lift the nose of the bar while the nuts remain loose, then tighten the chain just so that the light between the bottom of the bar and the chain disappears.
While you keep the tip upright with one hand, use the other hand to tighten the nuts (more on that later).
If lifting the chain is a challenge then this is a sign it’s too tight, and this happens often.
Try not to beat yourself up if this happens to you on your first attempt, just try again and you’ll get it soon enough.
Like I mentioned earlier, it’s more common for people to tighten a chainsaw chain than it is to under-tighten them.
This may be because a loose chain is more noticeable, as the chain will sag a little.
If this happens, the same rule applies, just try again until you get it right.
How Do You Adjust A Chainsaw Chain?
Let’s take a look at how you adjust a chainsaw chain. The first step, however, is to check the manufacturer’s guide for your particular chainsaw, and adhere to those steps. If you’re still having trouble, then turn to this guide.
Although most chainsaws have an identical functionality, there is no universal guide, as chainsaws are available in a range of styles.
Therefore, there will be small differences between all of them. Some chainsaws have self-tightening systems that mean you don’t have to worry about adjusting the chain at all, and this is why your manufacturer guide should be your first port of call.
However, there is one thing that a lot of guides fail to mention but is absolutely crucial, and that is to never tighten a hot chain before leaving it out in the cold.
This is a no-no, as it can cause the crankshaft to bend or break. This is particularly true if the chain has been over-tightened.
How Do You Tighten A Chainsaw Chain?
Firstly, you’ll need a wrench and a screwdriver but most chainsaws will have an accessory that combines the two that is referred to as a ‘scrench.’ This tool helps you undo the necessary nuts and the screw.
You also need to wear gloves to touch the chain. Once you have the necessary tools you’ll need to rest your chainsaw on a flat, work surface. Once you’ve done this, you need to disconnect the spark plug lead, as this stops the blade from starting.
Then you need to loosen the nuts on the side faceplate where the blade and the motor connect. This is where your scrench comes in! You just need to loosen the nuts, as this is what keeps the bar in place.
Next, you will need to lift the bar up a little, until the nose points up, and this is when you find the tension screws. The screws are usually on the side or the front of the chainsaw. Again, if you’re struggling to find them, make sure to consult the chainsaw guide.
Once you’ve found them, turn the screw clockwise until there is no slack. However, make sure not to over-tighten, as the chain needs to be able to easily move around the bar.
Once you have the appropriate amount of tension, you can then tighten the cover nuts up, and you’re all good! However, remember not to do this when the chain is hot, and don’t store it in cold conditions.
Another top tip when using your chainsaw would be to always have your scrench to hand, as you may need to adjust your chain at anytime.
Final Thoughts
Many people who use a chainsaw for the first time have some trouble getting to grips with basic chainsaw maintenance, so I hope this article has taught you how tight a chainsaw chain should be, how to adjust and tighten it, and a few handy tops.
I’m sure that with some practice, you will find that chainsaw maintenance gets easier and tightening and adjusting the chain is a breeze! In fact, I’m willing to bet that you’ll soon be able to tighten a chainsaw chain quickly, without needing to consult a side.
There are a few pointers you should always keep in mind when maintaining your chainsaw.
Regularly checking the tension of your chainsaw chain, consulting the manufacturer’s guide to your own particular chainsaw, and storing your chainsaw in suitable conditions is essential.
If you keep these things in mind, you’ll be able to use your chainsaw effectively for a very long time!