Properly prepping your chainsaw is essential for safe and efficient operation. It involves a series of checks and preparations before each use to ensure the saw is in good working order.
Prepping a chainsaw typically includes checking fuel and oil levels, inspecting the chain and guide bar, verifying safety features, and performing a general visual inspection, including the anti-vibration system.
Essential Steps for Chainsaw Preparation
Before you start cutting, take the time to go through these crucial steps. This not only prolongs the life of your equipment but significantly enhances safety.
1. Safety Gear Check
Always start by ensuring you have the necessary Personal Protective Equipment (PPE). This includes:
- Safety Helmet: With face shield and hearing protection.
- Safety Glasses: As an extra layer of eye protection.
- Cut-Resistant Pants or Chaps: To protect your legs from chain contact.
- Work Gloves: For better grip and protection.
- Safety Boots: With steel toe and good ankle support.
2. Fueling Up
Ensure you have the correct fuel mix (gasoline and 2-stroke oil at the manufacturer's recommended ratio) in the fuel tank.
- Always mix fuel outside in a well-ventilated area.
- Use fresh fuel (typically less than 30 days old).
- Wipe up any spills immediately.
3. Check Bar and Chain Oil
The guide bar and chain require constant lubrication to prevent excessive wear and heat buildup.
- Fill the bar oil reservoir with the recommended bar and chain oil.
- Check the oil flow before cutting by starting the saw and holding the tip near a clean surface – a line of oil should appear as the chain spins.
4. Inspect the Cutting Attachment
The guide bar and saw chain are the heart of the cutting action.
- Chain Tension: Check that the chain tension is correct – it should be snug on the guide bar but still able to be pulled around by hand (with gloves on!). Refer to your saw's manual for specifics.
- Chain Sharpness: A dull chain is inefficient and dangerous. Ensure the cutters are sharp and the depth gauges are set correctly.
- Guide Bar: Check for wear, burrs, or damage on the rails. Ensure the oil hole is clear.
5. Checking the Anti-Vibration (AV) System
A critical part of chainsaw design is the anti-vibration system, which helps reduce operator fatigue and the risk of vibration-related injuries.
As highlighted in chainsaw preparation guides, you should check the AV System if any components are missing or if the AV System isn't functioning properly. This involves visually inspecting the mounts, springs, or buffers that connect the engine unit to the handle unit. Ensure they are intact, not cracked or broken, and securely attached. A properly functioning AV system will noticeably absorb vibrations when the saw is running.
6. Final Visual Inspection
Perform a quick walk-around check of the entire saw.
- Check that all nuts, bolts, and screws are tight.
- Inspect the air filter – clean or replace if dirty.
- Verify the chain brake is functioning correctly.
- Check the muffler and spark arrestor screen for blockages (only when the saw is cold).
- Ensure controls (on/off switch, throttle lock) operate smoothly.
By following these steps, you ensure your chainsaw is prepared for safe and effective operation before you make the first cut.
