Chain Saw Maintenance!

Maintenance and safety go together like butter and jelly on bread one without the other there is no way to run a chain saw safely. How is my safety affected by the maintenance? Maintenance in most cases is simple tasks that only evolve a few minutes of your time to perform to keep you the operator safe. Operator fatigue is caused by not performing proper maintenance. These few simple tasks:

•   Keeping the air filter clean
• Keeping it clean allows for the proper air-fuel ratio with an adjusted carburetor which lets the chain saw run at peak performance not to bog down under normal cutting. Be aware that trying to cut fast will cause your chain saw to bog. 

•   Sharp chain
• Keep it sharp is important for two reasons; cuts wood without having to force it which makes less work and decreases operator fatigue.

•   Proper octane used with the proper 2-cycle mix (keep it fresh  
•  Allows that chain saw to perform at peak and stay lubricated. Both of these add longevity to both you and the chain saw (less maintenance in the long haul).

•   Proper chain tension
•  Allows the chain to keep the bar and chain properly lubricated and also decreases wore on the bar from the chain slapping and twisting allow you cut.

• Clean under Sprocket cover or side cover
• Keeping this clean from debris keeps two important features working properly one is the oiler (see above bullet) and secondly is the most important the chain brake. The chain brakes design is to lower the risk of injury caused by kickback by stopping the chain saw running in one second. A dirty system slows that reaction time and can fatigue part to brake. This system should be checked by a professional a your local dealership for inspections and cleaning as suggested in your owners manual.    

Now, all of these tasks listed above on average takes less than to one minute to check and only ten to fifteen minutes to correct. Now, maintenance only lowers the actives or habits that lead improper safe use of your chain saw. So, understanding how to properly run and use a chain saw is just as important! Any question on how to perform these maintenance tips I will be more than willing to answer and no question is stupid besides the one not asked!