Keeping your chainsaw chain sharp is essential for safe and efficient cutting. One common method involves using a specialized file and understanding the correct technique for each tooth.
Understanding the Tool: The File
A common chainsaw sharpening tool is a round file, specifically sized for your chain's pitch. These files are designed to sharpen the curved cutting edge of each tooth.
Basic Principle: Filing Direction and Stroke
Proper filing technique is crucial. As highlighted by expert advice, a chainsaw file is designed to cut only in one direction: the push stroke. This means you apply pressure when pushing the file forward along the tooth and release pressure on the pull stroke.
"The file only cuts in one direction the push stroke. Do not apply pressure on the pull stroke."
You will typically file from the inside out, starting near the gullet (the space between the teeth) and pushing the file forward along the cutting edge.
Step-by-Step Guide
Using a chainsaw sharpening file involves a systematic approach for each tooth:
- Secure the Chainsaw: Before sharpening, ensure the chainsaw is safely secured, perhaps in a vise, with the guide bar stable. Engage the chain brake for added safety.
- Identify the Teeth: Chainsaw chains have two sets of teeth that face in opposite directions. You will sharpen one set first, then switch sides to sharpen the other.
- Position the File: Use a file guide or hold the file at the correct angle recommended by your chainsaw or chain manufacturer (usually between 25 and 35 degrees relative to the guide bar). Position the file against the cutting edge of a tooth.
- Perform the Push Stroke: With the file correctly angled and seated against the tooth, apply steady pressure and push the file forward, following the shape of the tooth and filing from the inside out.
- Release Pressure on Pull Stroke: As you pull the file back towards you, lift it slightly or release all pressure. Remember, the file does not cut on the pull stroke.
- Repeat Strokes: Perform several consistent strokes on each tooth until the edge is sharp and shiny. Count the number of strokes for the first tooth and use the same number on subsequent teeth to ensure they are sharpened evenly.
- Move to the Next Tooth: Once one tooth is sharpened, move to the next tooth facing the same direction.
- Switch Sides: After sharpening all teeth facing in one direction, it's time to switch sides. Flip the chainsaw or move to the other side of the guide bar to access the teeth facing the opposite direction. Repeat steps 3-7 for this set of teeth.
Key Techniques for Effective Sharpening
- Maintain Consistent Angle: Using a file guide helps maintain the correct sharpening angle and depth.
- Even Strokes: Use the same number of strokes on each tooth to keep them the same length, which helps the saw cut straight.
- Check Rakers: The depth gauges (or rakers) in front of each tooth control how deep the tooth cuts. These may also need filing down periodically with a flat file, but this is a separate step after sharpening the teeth.
- Clean the Chain: Clean the chain before sharpening to remove dirt and debris that can dull the file.
By following these steps and techniques, particularly focusing on filing direction and applying pressure only on the push stroke from the inside out, you can effectively use a chainsaw sharpening file to restore your chain's cutting performance.
