If you find that your chainsaw is not cutting or stopping when you want it to, the chain might be a problem. You may need to adjust the tension or replace the chain brake.
Adjust the carburetor screw
If you have a chainsaw that stops when you cut, then you may need to adjust the carburetor screw. The screw is located on the side of the engine. It controls the amount of fuel that goes into the carburetor.
Before adjusting the carburetor, the chainsaw should be warm and at working temperature. You should also use an air filter on the saw. Carbon buildup can also affect carburetor settings.
To adjust the carburetor, you will need a flathead screwdriver. You should not turn the screw out of turn. This could cause the mixture to become rich. When you are done adjusting the carburetor, the engine should run smoothly and without hesitation.
When you make a carburetor adjustment, you should not rev the engine more than the recommended setting. Too many revs could damage the engine.
Check the depth gauge
If you’re having trouble cutting wood with your chainsaw, it’s important to check the depth gauge. Too little or too much height may cause your chain to cut too fast or too small, which can make the job worse.
The depth gauge is a tiny metal protuberance that sits in front of each cutter tooth. It controls the depth of the teeth so that it is the right amount of wood removed with each revolution of the chain. This helps to control how well the chain cuts, which in turn extends the life of the chain.
Chainsaws have two main parts: the cutting teeth and the drive links. A chainsaw should be properly maintained and sharpened to ensure it operates at optimal levels.
The cutters on your chain are semicircular with cutting edges that are ground to the correct diameter. You can sharpen these edges with a round file, which is available at your local hardware store.
Examine the top plate
If you are cutting with a chainsaw, you can make a cut with the chain but then the chain stops moving. This is called kickback. It is an extremely dangerous situation and can result in serious injury. You should be able to avoid kickback by following a few simple steps.
First, remove any debris, including old oil and dirt. You will need to have a clean, level work area. Make sure you have sufficient light to see.
Next, sharpen the blade of the saw. A dull blade can be dangerous and slow the cutting process. To get a sharp edge, you can use a sharpener or a round file. Keep in mind that you should always wear safety gear while using a chainsaw, such as gloves, eye protection, and ear protection.
Adjust the chain tension
Performing a chainsaw chain tension adjustment is a vital part of proper chainsaw maintenance. Chains that are overtightened will pull out or come off at the wrong time. Excessive tightness can damage the drive sprocket, clutch, and bar nose. It can also cause premature wear and tear.
Most chainsaws have an adjustable system that allows you to adjust the chain tension. However, you should check your saw’s manual for additional adjustments and check your chain for any signs of wear.
To determine if your chain needs tensioning, you should perform a snap test. Using heavy gloves, grasp the chain with your two fingers and pull it away from the bar. Then, return it to its original position.
You should also make sure that your blades are not too tight. This will prevent your blades from biting into the wood. Ideally, you should have about 1.25mm of space between the bottom of the bar and the top of the blade.
Replace the chain brake
If you’re using a chainsaw and have noticed your chain stopping after a few minutes of cutting, you might want to consider replacing the chain brake. This type of brake is a safety mechanism present in most chainsaws. It can prevent a sprocket from spinning, which can cause a chainsaw to become unstable.
A chain brake can be activated by pressing the handle of a chainsaw forward. In some cases, it can be automatically engaged by a ‘natural’ reaction. You should be aware that if you take more than three steps without engaging the brake, you may end up damaging your saw.
You should also check the tension of your chain. Too tight a chain can interfere with the chain’s movement and lead to problems with other parts. On the other hand, too loose can hinder the chain’s contact with the cutting surface, making it difficult to cut.