Replacing the chain on your pole chainsaw is a routine maintenance task essential for safe and efficient operation. This process involves carefully removing the old chain, preparing the unit, and correctly installing the new one.
Replacing the chain on your pole chainsaw is a crucial maintenance task that ensures optimal cutting performance and safety. While specific steps might vary slightly by model, the core process involves loosening the existing chain, properly seating the new one, and adjusting its tension.
Essential Steps for Chain Replacement
Follow these steps to safely and effectively replace the chain on your pole chainsaw:
1. Before You Begin: Safety First
Prioritizing safety is paramount when working with chainsaws.
- Disconnect Power: Always ensure the pole chainsaw is unplugged from its power source or has its battery removed to prevent accidental starting.
- Wear Protective Gear: Don protective work gloves to protect your hands from sharp chain teeth and bar edges. Safety glasses are also recommended.
- Clear Work Area: Find a clean, flat surface to work on, free from obstructions.
2. Loosen and Remove the Old Chain
This initial step prepares your pole chainsaw for the new chain installation.
- Access the Sprocket Cover: Locate and loosen the nuts (usually two) that secure the sprocket cover (also known as the side cover or clutch cover) on the side of the chainsaw body. Some models might have a single knob or lever. Once loosened, carefully remove the cover to expose the drive sprocket, chain, and guide bar.
- Loosen Chain Tension: As indicated in maintenance guidelines, loosen the bar and chain tension by turning the adjustment screw at the front of the unit. This is typically done by turning the screw counterclockwise using a flat head screwdriver. Continue turning until the chain is very loose.
- Remove Old Components: Once the tension is fully released, you can then remove and discard the worn bar and chain. Carefully lift the guide bar off the mounting studs and slide the chain off the drive sprocket.
3. Prepare for New Chain Installation
Before putting on the new chain, a little preparation goes a long way in ensuring smooth operation.
- Clean Debris: Use a brush or rag to clean any sawdust, wood chips, and oil residue from the sprocket area, the guide bar groove, and the sprocket cover. This prevents buildup that can hinder performance.
- Inspect Components: Check the guide bar for any burrs or wear on its rails. Inspect the drive sprocket for excessive wear; if the teeth are very pointed or hooked, it might be time to replace the sprocket as well.
4. Installing the New Chain
Proper orientation of the chain is critical for cutting performance and safety.
- Check Chain Direction: Identify the cutting direction arrows usually stamped on the chain itself or indicated in your chainsaw's manual. The sharp edge of the cutters should be facing the direction of bar rotation (typically away from the chainsaw body at the top of the bar).
- Position on Guide Bar: Carefully place the new chain into the groove around the guide bar, ensuring the links sit properly.
- Engage Drive Sprocket: Fit the chain around the drive sprocket on the chainsaw body. Then, align the guide bar's mounting slot with the chainsaw's mounting studs. The chain should loosely loop around both the bar and the sprocket.
5. Reassemble and Tension the Chain
Correct chain tension is vital for both cutting efficiency and user safety.
- Replace Sprocket Cover: Carefully put the sprocket cover back into place, ensuring the tension adjustment pin (if present) fits into the hole on the guide bar. Hand-tighten the bar nuts just enough to hold the cover in place, allowing the bar to still move slightly for tension adjustment.
- Adjust Chain Tension: Begin to tighten the chain tension by turning the adjustment screw clockwise. While doing so, lift the tip of the guide bar slightly to take up any slack. The goal is to achieve proper tension where the chain fits snugly against the guide bar's underside but can still be pulled freely by hand, with no significant slack. You should be able to just barely pull the drive links out of the bar groove at the center of the bar.
- Final Tightening: Once satisfied with the tension, securely tighten the bar nuts completely using your wrench or bar tool. Double-check that the chain tension remains correct after tightening the nuts, as it can sometimes change.
6. Final Check
- Lubrication: Ensure the chain oil reservoir is full.
- Test Run: Briefly turn on the chainsaw (if electric) or start it (if gas-powered) to ensure the chain spins smoothly and the oiler is working. Always do this outdoors and away from people or obstacles.
By following these steps, you can confidently replace the chain on your pole chainsaw, ensuring it's ready for safe and effective use.
| Tool Required | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Flat Head Screwdriver | Adjusting chain tension |
| Wrench/Bar Tool | Loosening/tightening bar nuts |
| Work Gloves | Hand protection |
| Cleaning Brush/Rag | Removing sawdust and debris |
