Curious how to replace a chainsaw chain? Depending on what brand and model you have will depend on how the process goes. However, there are some guidelines you can follow when replacing your chainsaw’s blade. I will show you how to do this! These steps will guide you in replacing a chainsaw chain.
While changing a chainsaw blade can be a five-minute task, you might find that the first few times might be a slower process. Once you learn and create a system replacing a chainsaw chain will be a breeze. You can still buy a new chain by visiting our top-quality chainsaw chain selection.
Step 1 Remove Bar And Chain From Chainsaw
First, remove the side plate to access the bar and chain. Most chainsaws have at least two nuts to hold your plate in place.
Use a wrench to unscrew the nuts, so that you can easily access the plate to get to the chain.
You will find that some brands of chainsaws have a break that is attached to the side plate if your chainsaw has this, unlock the brake before you try to remove the plate. If you skip this step, you could have a hard to impossible time to reinstall.
Step 2 Loosen The Chain
After you have completed the first step, you can loosen your blade to allow you to remove it from your chainsaw. You can do this by pulling the nose of the chainsaw bar away from the chainsaw. This will release the tensioner from the blade. You should take safety precautions to prevent unnecessary cuts and damage to your chainsaw. You can find additional safety tips at the Florida Trail Association’s chainsaw training program.
If your chainsaw has a buildup of sawdust, make sure to clean this up before you go and put the new blade on your chainsaw.
Step 3 Remove Blade
After you have successfully released the tensioner, you are able to pull your chainsaw blade out.
Step 4: Loosen Tension Screw
Your tensioning screw should be located on the inside of your guide bar. Some sawdust might need to be removed. You will need to loosen the chain so that it is easier to put on. If you skip this step, you will struggle to try to place a new blade on your saw.
Step 5 Replace With New Or Sharpened Blade
Now you are ready to thread on a new chain or a freshly sharpened chain. Start by placing your chain around the clutch drum (ensuring the drink links for sure engage with the sprocket). Then work your way up to the nose (front tip) of the chainsaw.
During this step, you want to make sure your chain is aligned correctly, and you work on tightening up the tension as you start to get your chain in place. When you’re pulling on the chain, wrap it around your bar using your saw’s adjustment pin.
Step 6 Place Side Bar In Place
Once you fully get your blade on successfully now is the time to place the side plate again. Screw in the nuts, make sure not to go too tight, so the chain can move while you work on adjusting.
Now you want to work on tightening the chain with the tensioning screw that you loosened earlier. You are now ready to start cutting!
Common Questions About Chainsaw Chains
How Loose Can A Chainsaw Chain Be?
Your chain should be slightly looser than the guide bar to allow for some flexibility. You want to ensure that as you use your chainsaw the blade is tight enough that it can easily pull the drive links to move the chain quickly.
Why Is My Chainsaw Constantly Throwing The Chain?
Most often if your chainsaw keeps throwing the chain, it could be from a worn out drive sprocket. The sprocket is what you will find propels the blades on the chain that goes around your bar. The sprockets will wear down over time and become less effective at pulling the chain. This is why your chain may be thrown away.
Can You Over Tighten A Chainsaw Chain?
You can tighten your chainsaw chain too much. This can be dangerous as too tight, can cause your chain to break from the chainsaw. As a guide, tighten your chain clockwise and loosen it counterclockwise.
Is There A Tension Screw For A Chainsaw?
Depending on the brand of your chainsaw, it will vary slightly. Your tension screws will be located either at the front or on the side. To adjust the tension, hold the bar’s nose up and turn the screws clockwise.
I hope this guide helps you to learn how to easily replace a chainsaw chain when needed for your saw!
For a full review of current chainsaw models including pricing, how to guides and best brands see our ultimate chainsaw guide.
