Chainsaw Tightener Not Working: [Cause & Proven Fixes]

As a chainsaw owner, there’s nothing more frustrating than having a chainsaw tightener that doesn’t work. This can be a major inconvenience, as it can prevent you from using your chainsaw to cut down trees or other projects. In this guide, I will walk you through the steps to troubleshoot a chainsaw tightener that isn’t working. I will also provide tips on how to prevent this issue from happening in the future.

By following these steps, you can quickly diagnose and resolve the issue, so you can get back to using your chainsaw as soon as possible.

Most Common Reasons Why Chainsaw Tightener Not Working

Loose Chain

The most common reason for a chainsaw tightener not working is a loose chain. This can happen if the chain is not properly tightened when it is installed, or if it becomes loose over time due to wear and tear. A loose chain can cause the chainsaw to be difficult to control, and it can also increase the risk of injury.

Damaged Chain

Another common reason for a chainsaw tightener not working is a damaged chain. This can happen if the chain is dropped or if it comes into contact with a hard object. A damaged chain can cause the chainsaw to be difficult to control, and it can also increase the risk of injury.

Worn-Out Chain

A worn-out chain can also cause a chainsaw tightener not to work properly. This is because the chain teeth will become dull over time, and they will not be able to grip the bar properly. A worn-out chain can also cause the chainsaw to be difficult to control, and it can also increase the risk of injury.

Clogged Bar Oiler

A clogged bar oiler can also cause a chainsaw tightener not to work properly. This is because the bar oiler is responsible for lubricating the chain, and if it is clogged, the chain will not be able to move smoothly. A clogged bar oiler can also cause the chain to overheat, which can damage the chain and the chainsaw.

Damaged Chainsaw Tightener

Finally, a damaged chainsaw tightener can also cause the chainsaw to be difficult to control. This is because the tightener is responsible for keeping the chain tight, and if it is damaged, the chain will not be able to be properly tightened. A damaged chainsaw tightener can also cause the chain to become loose, which can increase the risk of injury.

How to Troubleshoot: Chainsaw Tightener Not Working

A chainsaw tightener is a vital part of your chainsaw. It helps to keep the chain tight and in place, which is essential for safety and performance. If your chainsaw tightener is not working properly, it can be dangerous to use. You may also find that your chain is coming off more often, or that it is not cutting as well as it should.

Troubleshooting Tips

If your chainsaw tightener is not working, there are a few things you can check to try to fix the problem.

Check the chain tensioner adjustment screw. This screw is located on the side of the chainsaw, near the chain. It is used to adjust the tension of the chain. If the screw is not tight enough, the chain will be loose and may come off. If the screw is too tight, the chain will be difficult to move and may damage the chainsaw.
Check the chain tensioner spring. The chain tensioner spring is located inside the chainsaw, behind the chain. It helps to keep the chain tight. If the spring is broken or damaged, it will not be able to keep the chain tight.
Check the chain guide bar. The chain guide bar is the metal bar that the chain runs on. If the bar is damaged or worn, it can cause the chain to come off.
Check the chain. The chain is the metal links that run around the guide bar. If the chain is damaged or worn, it can cause the chain to come off.

How to Fix a Chainsaw Tightener

If you have checked the chain tensioner adjustment screw, the chain tensioner spring, the chain guide bar, and the chain and you still cannot find the problem, you may need to take your chainsaw to a qualified repair technician.

Preventative Maintenance

The best way to avoid problems with your chainsaw tightener is to perform regular maintenance. This includes:

Tightening the chain regularly. The chain should be tightened to the manufacturer’s specifications.
Inspecting the chain tensioner adjustment screw, the chain tensioner spring, the chain guide bar, and the chain regularly. If you notice any damage or wear, replace the parts as needed.
Taking your chainsaw to a qualified repair technician for regular maintenance. A qualified technician can identify and fix any potential problems before they become serious.

FAQs: Chainsaw Tightener Not Working

Why is my chainsaw tightener not working?

There are a few possible reasons why your chainsaw tightener might not be working. Here are some of the most common:

The chain is too loose. If the chain is too loose, it will not be able to stay tight against the bar, and the tightener will not be able to do its job. To fix this, tighten the chain according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
The chain is too tight. If the chain is too tight, it will be difficult to turn the tightener, and the chain may jump off the bar. To fix this, loosen the chain slightly until it is easier to turn the tightener.
The tightener is damaged. If the tightener is damaged, it will not be able to tighten the chain properly. To fix this, you will need to replace the tightener.
The bar is bent. If the bar is bent, it will not be able to hold the chain tight, and the tightener will not be able to do its job. To fix this, you will need to straighten the bar.

How do I tighten the chain on my chainsaw?

To tighten the chain on your chainsaw, follow these steps:

1. Turn off the chainsaw and disconnect the spark plug wire.
2. Loosen the bar nuts with a wrench.
3. Slide the chain tensioner lever to the right.
4. Tighten the bar nuts until the chain is snug against the bar.
5. Release the chain tensioner lever.
6. Reattach the spark plug wire.

How do I loosen the chain on my chainsaw?

To loosen the chain on your chainsaw, follow these steps:

1. Turn off the chainsaw and disconnect the spark plug wire.
2. Loosen the bar nuts with a wrench.
3. Slide the chain tensioner lever to the left.
4. Tighten the bar nuts until the chain is loose enough to move freely.
5. Release the chain tensioner lever.
6. Reattach the spark plug wire.

What are the different types of chainsaw tighteners?

There are two main types of chainsaw tighteners: manual and automatic.

Manual tighteners are operated by hand. They are the most common type of tightener and are typically found on lower-priced chainsaws.
Automatic tighteners are operated by the engine. They are more expensive than manual tighteners, but they provide more consistent tensioning and are less likely to slip.

How often should I tighten the chain on my chainsaw?

You should tighten the chain on your chainsaw whenever it becomes loose. This is typically after every few uses. However, you may need to tighten the chain more often if you are using your chainsaw in dusty or dirty conditions.

Also Read: Chainsaw Trigger Not Working