When to Replace a Chainsaw Chain? – A Substantive Guide

A chainsaw is an essential equipment for woodworkers, and, for this type of work, it is recommended to maintain your tools in good condition. However, very often, you may not notice some aspects that allow you to understand that the chainsaw or any other tool requires a repair. Today I am going to tell you more about maintaining the condition of one of the chainsaw’s essential details, its chain, to be more specific. You will understand when to replace a chainsaw chain and how many times you can sharpen it.

When to Replace a Chainsaw Chain?
You should replace your chainsaw chain when it becomes dull. A dull chain is less effective and can cause the saw to kick back, which can be dangerous. Before you decide on replacing the chainsaw blade, you should try sharpening it first, since there is no need to replace a chain that can be easily sharpened.

Replace a Chainsaw Chain

Contents

Poulan Pro chainsaw chain 20

Here are a few hints that are related to the process of replacing a chainsaw chain that may come in handy. Let’s see what you should know about it.

When to replace a chainsaw chain?

Some people may wonder how long does a chainsaw chain last. Pay attention to a few tips below to understand when it is time to replace a chainsaw chain.

Check teeth integrity

SUNGATOR 3-Pack 18 Inch

Inspect your chain for teeth damage. If you see some components are missing or being damaged, it is better to replace the chain to improve the performance of the chainsaw.

Look for stability

Your tool has stability issues. If you feel like your chainsaw is bouncing and is not stable, it is recommended to change the chainsaw chain.

Inspect blade sharpness

It is hard for the chainsaw to get into the wood. If you feel like you need to make an effort to start using the device, you need to consider purchasing a new one. A dull chainsaw blade does not simplify the job.

Uneven cuts

If you see your chainsaw perform some crooked and rough cuts. Most of the time, this issue happens if you use an old chain.

What to look for when replacing your chain?

First of all, you will need to prepare a wrench for your chainsaw (usually this type of equipment comes in a kit) or a socket wrench alongside a flat screwdriver. After that, you can start the process of removing a chainsaw chain. Take off the side panel and pull the bar of a tool to release the tension. Remove your old tool. Now you can put a new chain on your equipment. However, it is recommended to use a screwdriver to manage chain tension.

How many times can you sharpen a chain?

Chainsaw chain life expectancy often depends on the type of wood you cut, how well you look after your equipment, and how long you work with a tool. If you notice that the performance of your chainsaw becomes worse and worse, you can always try to sharpen your chain. However, the more you sharpen it, the faster it will become dull. There are also marks on your chain that allow you to understand how much metal you can remove.

Can I fix a chain if it’s broken?

First of all, many chainsaw chain brands recommend replacing their products instead of fixing them. The reason is it would be safer and more productive to use a new chain rather than the repaired one.

Look After Your Chainsaw

I hope that this article has helped you to understand when to replace a chainsaw chain. You should always inspect your chainsaw before working. Do not forget to lubricate the tool and always wear protection. I would appreciate it if you told us more about your experience working with a chainsaw. When do you usually change a chain, and how do you look after your equipment?

Ronnie Collins

Ronnie Collins

I’m Ronnie Collins. I’ve been passionate about gardening and woodworking all my life and even earned an MS degree in Botany from the University of Maryland. I’ve been working at a gardening company for a while, so I know the ropes about a whole lot of dedicated equipment such as the table saw, track saw, lawnmowers, chainsaws, garden hoses, and much more.

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