Unlike regular cutting saws, chainsaws do not have a cutting blade but instead, have a metal chain made up of numerous sharp teeth-like blades on them. As many chainsaw users know, untangling a chain with razor-sharp teeth sticking out from all parts can be super frustrating and sometimes dangerous. Bear in mind that it is completely natural for chains to often get tangled when stored in a small and compact space. Luckily for those reading this article, there is a trick to help you untangle your new or old chainsaw chains that is simple and safer. This trick is so easy to use that even a newbie can get a hang of it once they get started. Be sure to follow the step-by-step guide listed out below.
Prepping Stage
It is necessary to properly prep yourself before proceeding to untangle a chainsaw. The first thing you may need to do is to find a flat surface where you can place your chainsaw chain before untangling it. A sturdy table or bench will be sufficient. Ensure there is no debris or cluttering around your work area.
You will also need to get a pair of gloves to keep your fingers safe from cuts when untangling your chainsaw chain. Leather gloves or industrial gloves will do a good job of keeping your fingers safe by preventing any chance of snagging during the untangling process.
Depending on how complicated the chain tangling is, you may need to use screwdrivers or Allen wrenches during the process. These tools will be useful for taking off the chain from the chainsaw housing.
Untangling Stage
Below is a step-by-step guide for untangling your chainsaw chain.
Step One: Take out the tangled chain from the chainsaw housing.
Step Two: Lubricate all entangled areas especially areas with rust or gunk.
Step Three: Grab the two ends of the tangled chain, holding a loop in each hand. Allow the chain to drop freely from both points being held in your hands.
Step Four: While still holding each loop in your hands, ensure you increase the diameter of each loop by a perfect width of about 3 inches.
Step Five: With the loops still held firmly in your hands, slowly lift the dangling part of the chain. Due to the stiff nature of chainsaw chains, the lowest dangling part of the chain remains straight. It pokes out until it reaches a seemingly vertical position. By using the simple principle of gravity, the lowest part of the chainsaw chain will fall, allowing it to slide past the loops. This in turn causes the chain to untangle itself. Repeat this same process with another pair of loops until the chain is completely tangle-free.
Tips To Help Improve Your Untangling Process
Wearing safety gear like safety goggles and a pair of gloves helps to make the task easier while also preventing accidents that may cause harm. Safety goggles will help protect your eye from oil spillage or sawdust from the chainsaw chain. Also, try as much as you can to prevent twisting or turning the chain as it may damage the teeth of the chain.
For new chains, it is generally necessary to always oil/lubricate and also clean the chain properly. This makes the untangling process a bit more stress-free. For old chains, lubricating the chain properly and cleaning off debris and dirt can also improve the ease of the untangling process. After untangling an old chain, you may need to sharpen the teeth of the chain to improve the efficiency of the saw.