Chainsaw Tension Not Working: [You Should Try This]

As a chainsaw owner, there’s nothing more frustrating than when your saw’s chain tension isn’t working properly. It can be a major inconvenience, preventing you from using your saw to cut down trees, trim branches, or do any other chainsaw-related tasks.

In this guide, I’ll walk you through the steps to troubleshoot a chainsaw tensioning problem. I’ll explain the different causes of this issue and how to fix them. By the end of this guide, you’ll be able to quickly diagnose and resolve the problem, so you can get back to using your chainsaw without any further delays.

Most Common Reasons Why Chainsaw Tension Not Working

Dull Chain

The most common reason for a chainsaw tension not working is a dull chain. When the chain is dull, it cannot grip the wood properly and will slip, causing the tension to be released. To check if your chain is dull, run your finger along the teeth. If they are smooth, the chain is dull and needs to be sharpened.

Incorrect Tension

Another common reason for a chainsaw tension not working is incorrect tension. If the chain is too tight, it will not be able to move freely and will cause the tension to be released. If the chain is too loose, it will be able to move freely but will not be able to grip the wood properly. To check the tension of your chain, use a chainsaw tension gauge. The gauge will tell you the correct tension for your chainsaw.

Damaged Chain

A damaged chain can also cause the tension to be released. If the chain is cracked, broken, or missing teeth, it will not be able to grip the wood properly and will cause the tension to be released. To check if your chain is damaged, inspect it carefully. If you see any damage, the chain needs to be replaced.

Clogged Bar Oiler

A clogged bar oiler can also cause the chainsaw tension not to work. The bar oiler lubricates the chain and helps to keep it cool. If the bar oiler is clogged, the chain will not be lubricated properly and will wear out faster. To check if your bar oiler is clogged, remove the bar cover and look at the oiler. If the oiler is full of sawdust or other debris, it needs to be cleaned.

Faulty Chain Brake

A faulty chain brake can also cause the chainsaw tension not to work. The chain brake is a safety feature that stops the chain from moving if the chainsaw is dropped. If the chain brake is not working properly, it can cause the chain to move freely and release the tension. To check if your chain brake is working properly, engage the brake and try to move the chain. If the chain does not move, the brake is working properly. If the chain moves, the brake needs to be repaired or replaced.

How to Troubleshoot: Chainsaw Tension Not Working

Symptoms of a Chainsaw Tension Issue

There are a few telltale signs that your chainsaw tension is not working properly. These include:

The chain is loose and jumping off the bar.
The chain is too tight and difficult to turn.
The chain is making a squealing or grinding noise.
The chain is not cutting through wood as efficiently as it should.

If you notice any of these symptoms, it’s important to troubleshoot the problem and fix it as soon as possible. A loose or tight chain can be dangerous, and it can also damage your chainsaw.

How to Troubleshoot a Chainsaw Tension Issue

To troubleshoot a chainsaw tension issue, you’ll need to follow these steps:

1. Check the chain tensioning screws. These screws are located on the side of the chainsaw near the bar. Loosen the screws until the chain is just snug against the bar.
2. Retighten the chain tensioning screws. Once the chain is snug against the bar, tighten the screws until they are snug but not too tight.
3. Test the chain tension. Turn the chainsaw on and let it run for a few seconds. The chain should be tight enough to stay on the bar but not so tight that it is difficult to turn.
4. Adjust the chain tension as needed. If the chain is still loose or tight after tightening the screws, you may need to adjust the chain guide. The chain guide is a metal bar that helps to keep the chain in place. To adjust the chain guide, loosen the bolts that hold it in place and move it up or down until the chain is properly tensioned.

Preventing Chainsaw Tension Problems

You can prevent chainsaw tension problems by following these tips:

Regularly check the chain tension. Check the chain tension every time you use your chainsaw. This will help to ensure that the chain is properly tensioned and that it is not causing any problems.
Tighten the chain before each use. Make sure to tighten the chain before each use. This will help to prevent the chain from coming loose and jumping off the bar.
Lubricate the chain regularly. Lubricating the chain regularly will help to keep it running smoothly and prevent it from becoming too tight.
Inspect the chain for damage. Inspect the chain for damage before each use. If you see any damage, replace the chain immediately.

By following these tips, you can help to prevent chainsaw tension problems and keep your chainsaw running smoothly.

Troubleshooting Tips

If you are having trouble troubleshooting a chainsaw tension issue, here are a few tips:

Check the owner’s manual. Your chainsaw’s owner’s manual should contain information on how to properly tension the chain.
Contact a qualified chainsaw repair technician. If you are unable to troubleshoot the problem yourself, contact a qualified chainsaw repair technician for help.

Conclusion

Chainsaw tension is an important part of maintaining your chainsaw. By following these tips, you can help to prevent chainsaw tension problems and keep your chainsaw running smoothly.

FAQs: Chainsaw Chain Tension Not Working

Why is my chainsaw chain tension not working?

There are a few possible reasons why your chainsaw chain tension may not be working.

The chain is too loose. If the chain is too loose, it will not be able to stay on the bar properly and will come off easily. To tighten the chain, you will need to use the chain tensioner on your chainsaw.
The chain is too tight. If the chain is too tight, it will be difficult to move and will cause the chainsaw to work harder. To loosen the chain, you will need to use the chain tensioner on your chainsaw.
The chain is worn out. If the chain is worn out, it will not be able to grip the bar properly and will come off easily. To replace the chain, you will need to purchase a new one that is the correct size for your chainsaw.
The bar is damaged. If the bar is damaged, it will not be able to hold the chain properly and the chain will come off easily. To replace the bar, you will need to purchase a new one that is the correct size for your chainsaw.

How do I tighten the chain on my chainsaw?

To tighten the chain on your chainsaw, you will need to follow these steps:

1. Turn off the chainsaw and disconnect the spark plug wire.
2. Locate the chain tensioner on your chainsaw.
3. Use the chain tensioner to turn the tensioner screw clockwise.
4. Tighten the chain until it is snug against the bar.
5. Reattach the spark plug wire and start the chainsaw.

How do I loosen the chain on my chainsaw?

To loosen the chain on your chainsaw, you will need to follow these steps:

1. Turn off the chainsaw and disconnect the spark plug wire.
2. Locate the chain tensioner on your chainsaw.
3. Use the chain tensioner to turn the tensioner screw counterclockwise.
4. Loosen the chain until it is loose enough to move freely on the bar.
5. Reattach the spark plug wire and start the chainsaw.

What should I do if my chainsaw chain keeps coming off?

If your chainsaw chain keeps coming off, there are a few things you can check:

Make sure that the chain is the correct size for your chainsaw.
Make sure that the chain is installed correctly.
Make sure that the chain tension is correct.
Make sure that the bar is not damaged.
If the chain is still coming off, you may need to take your chainsaw to a qualified service center for repairs.

How often should I tighten the chain on my chainsaw?

You should tighten the chain on your chainsaw whenever it becomes loose. This will help to ensure that the chain is properly tensioned and that it will not come off while you are using the chainsaw.

Generally, you will need to tighten the chain on your chainsaw more often if you are using it for heavy-duty tasks. However, you should also check the chain tension regularly, even if you are not using the chainsaw frequently.

Also Read: Chainsaw Tightener Not Working