HOW TO TAKE CARE OF YOUR CHAINSAW

A chainsaw is an outdoor power tool that can help you clear fallen trees and trim branches close to your house. However, in order to make sure it works every time you pick it up, it’s important that your chainsaw be properly maintained. Here’s what you need to do.

1. Keep it clean

Using a chainsaw creates a lot of dirt. Sawdust, wood chips and oil can combine to produce a layer of gunk that may cause problems with your blades and motor.

To clean the blades, remove the chain and soak it in a mixture of ammonia and water for about half an hour. Then scrub it with a soft brush to get out all the debris. Finally, rinse it with water and allow it to dry.

If the air filter is full of debris, remove it, clean it out and allow it to dry. You can also just replace it.

You should also clean your chainsaw’s carburettor once a month. A dirty carburettor will prevent fuel from getting to the engine. To clean it, blow compressed air or spray a fuel additive into the carburettor.

2. Keep it sharp

Dull blades will make your chainsaw work harder than it needs to. If you see more sawdust than wood chips when you’re cutting — or you notice more kickbacks — it’s time to sharpen the blades.

To sharpen it, secure the chainsaw in a vice and engage the chain brake. Use a file at a right angle to the rollers and sharpen every second tooth. Then, turn the saw around and sharpen the rest of the teeth.

3. Keep it well lubricated

A chainsaw has a lot of moving parts and it’s up to you to keep all the pieces lubricated and moving smoothly. Check your owner’s manual to learn what type of oil to use and how much to put in. You should also lubricate the clutch drum bearings.

4. Keep the gas fresh

If left to sit in the shed, the gasoline in the tank is likely to get stale. Therefore, you should fill the gas tank with enough fuel only for the job you’re doing so there’s not a lot left over. Using a fuel additive is also a good way to keep the gas fresh.

Chainsaw maintenance and repair in the GTA

At Hitch City, we know that regularly maintaining your outdoor power tools can save you money, time and trouble. From chainsaws to lawn mowers, we service the manufacturers we sell and can repair any make or model you have. When the snow flies, we’re also one of the area’s go-to snow plow dealers. Request a quote today or contact us at one of our three locations in the GTA.