Chainsaw chains require proper fitting and maintenance to ensure optimal performance and safety. Whether you are a seasoned professional or just starting out, understanding the basics of chainsaw fitting and maintenance is essential. In this guide, we will walk you through the key steps to keeping your chainsaw in top condition.
Why is Proper Chainsaw Fitting Important?
Proper chainsaw fitting is crucial for both performance and safety. A well-fitted chain ensures efficient cutting and reduces the risk of kickback, which is one of the leading causes of chainsaw related accidents. A loose chain can also damage the chainsaw, resulting in costly repairs.
By following the manufacturer's guidelines, you can maximise the lifespan of your chainsaw and minimise the risk of accidents. Check out our free downloadable chain guide for ensuring you are using the correct guidelines for your chainsaw, to print out and keep on-hand.
How to Fit a Chainsaw Chain
When fitting a chainsaw chain, it is important to ensure that it is the correct size for your chainsaw model. Ensure you disconnect the spark plug to prevent any accidents.
- Start by removing the chain sprocket cover.
- Unscrew the tensioner and the chain spool cover with a screwdriver and a wing nut respectively.
- Locate the tensioner towards the end of the chainsaw bar and turn the wheel.
- Finally, place the chainsaw chain rail on the guide rail.
- Now you can take out the old chain, and place the new one in. Ensure the teeth are facing the correct direction, and insert it into the guide rail bar. Place the protective cover back onto the chainsaw.
- Finally, check the tension by pulling the chain at the bottom of the guide bar - it should move freely without sagging. Make adjustments to the tension as necessary by rotating the tension screws.
For further guidance, read our comprehensive step-by-step guide to putting a chain on your chainsaw.
Chainsaw Maintenance and Safety Tips
Regular maintenance is key to keeping your chainsaw at peak performance. Here are some essential maintenance tips to follow:
- Keep your chain sharp by using a chainsaw file, preventing kickback and chainsaw damage. Check out our useful chain sharpening guide here.
- Clean the air filter regularly to prevent dust and debris from clogging the engine.
- Inspect the guide bar for any signs of wear or damage and replace as needed.
- Use specialist chain oil to keep your chain lubricated, reduce friction and prevent wear and tear.
- Wear the appropriate work gear including thick, PPE gloves to keep yourself safe.
How Often Should You Sharpen a Chainsaw Chain?
The general rule of thumb is, sharpen every time you refuel, or after every few hours of cutting, but it depends on how and what you're cutting.
Here’s a quick breakdown:
| Cutting Situation | Sharpening Frequency |
|---|---|
| Clean, softwood logs | Every 3–5 hours |
| Dirty or frozen wood | After every session |
| Hitting soil, nails, or grit | Sharpen immediately |
| Chains producing dust instead of chips | Sharpen now! |
When to Seek Expert Guidance
While basic chainsaw maintenance can be done at home, there are certain tasks that are best left to professionals. If you encounter any issues with your chainsaw that you are not comfortable fixing yourself, it is best to seek the help of a certified technician. This will ensure that your chainsaw is repaired correctly and maintained for optimal performance.
By following these tips for chainsaw fitting and maintenance, you can ensure that you get the most out of your chainsaw. Remember, safety should always be your top priority when using a chainsaw, so always follow the manufacturer's guidelines and use PPE.
Chainsaw Chain Identification Charts
Full Chisel Chains – Cross Reference
| Pitch | Gauge | Rotatech Chain | Carlton | McCulloch | Stihl | Windsor | Husqvarna | EM | Dolmar | Tri-Link |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 0.325″ | 0.050″ (1.3mm) | B1SFT (Full Chisel) | K1C, K1L | PM320, SPR320 | 23 | 50J | H22, H23 | 82 | 2B, 7B | |
| 0.325″ | 0.058″ (1.5mm) | B2SFT (Full Chisel) | K2 | SPR328 | 25 | 58J | H25, H21, H38 | S212 | 083, 686 | 2C, 7C |
| 0.325″ | 0.063″ (1.6mm) | B3SFT (Full Chisel) | K3 | 26 | 63J | H28, H26 | S28 | 2D, 7D | ||
| 3/8″ | 0.050″ (1.3mm) | C1SFT (Full Chisel) | A1 | PM370, SPR370 | 33R | 50A | H51, H47, H46, H80, H82 | S46 | 100 | 3B, 8B |
| 3/8″ | 0.058″ (1.5mm) | C2SFT (Full Chisel) | A2 | SPR378 | 35R | 58A | H42, H48, H49, H52, H54, H81 | S48, S49, S52 | 99 | 3C, 8C |
| 3/8″ | 0.063″ (1.6mm) | C3SFT (Full Chisel) | A3 | PM373, SPR373 | 36R, 33R | 63A | H44, H45, H53, H50, H83 | S45, S53 | 110 | 3D, 8D |
| .404″ | 0.063″ (1.6mm) | D3SFT (Full Chisel) | B3S | PM403, SPR403 | 46RS | 63B | H57, H64, H65 | S64, S65 | 103, 108 | 4D |
Semi Chisel Chains - Cross Reference
| Pitch | Gauge | Rotatech Chain | Carlton | McCulloch | Stihl | Windsor | Husqvarna | EM | Dolmar | Tri-Link |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1/4″ | 0.043″ (1.1mm) | E0 | PM3 | |||||||
| 1/4″ | 0.050″ (1.3mm) | E1 (Semi Chisel) | E1, K1NK | 13RM | 50K | H00 | S00 | |||
| 0.325″ | 0.050″ (1.3mm) | B1FT (Semi Chisel) | H30, H37 | S30 | ||||||
| 0.325″ | 0.058″ (1.5mm) | B2FT (Semi Chisel) | K2 | SPR328 | 25 | 58J | H25, H21, H38 | S212 | 083, 686 | 2C, 7C |
| 0.325″ | 0.063″ (1.6mm) | B3FT (Semi Chisel) | K3 | 26 | 63J | H28, H26 | S28 | 2D, 7D | ||
| 3/8″ | 0.050″ (1.3mm) | C1FT (Semi Chisel) | A1 | PM370, SPR370 | 33R | 50A | H51, H47, H46, H80, H82 | S46 | 100 | 3B, 8B |
| 3/8″ | 0.058″ (1.5mm) | C2FT (Semi Chisel) | A2 | SPR378 | 35R | 58A | H42, H48, H49, H52, H54, H81 | S48, S49, S52 | 99 | 3C, 8C |
| 3/8″ | 0.063″ (1.6mm) | C3FT (Semi Chisel) | A3 | PM373, SPR373 | 36R, 33R | 63A | H44, H45, H53, H50, H83 | S45, S53 | 110 | 3D, 8D |
| 3/8″ | 0.043″ (1.1mm) | A0 (Semi Chisel) | N4 | 61PMN | 43RG | 1A | ||||
| 3/8″ | 0.050″ (1.3mm) | A1 (Semi Chisel) | N1 | M370 | 63PM | 50R | H35, H36 | S36 | 92 | 1B |
| .404″ | 0.063″ (1.6mm) | D3FT (Semi Chisel) | B3S | PM403, SPR403 | 46RS | 63B | H57, H64, H65 | S64, S65 | 103, 108 | 4D |
Recommended Tools
Keeping your chain in top condition doesn’t have to be complicated. At Rotatech, we stock all the essential tools you need to make chain maintenance quick, simple, and safe. Here are the products we recommend:
-
Files: Keeping your cutters sharp is essential for safe, efficient cutting. A good-quality file lets you quickly restore the edge on each tooth, reducing strain on your saw and improving performance.
-
File Kit: A complete kit gives you everything you need for accurate sharpening, including the correct file sizes, guides and handles. It helps you maintain the correct angles, making sharpening faster and more consistent.
-
Rotatech Chainsaw Tensioning Tool: Correct chain tension is crucial for safety and cutting accuracy. This tool allows you to adjust the chain quickly and precisely on the go, preventing premature wear and reducing the risk of derailment.
-
2-Stroke Oil: Using a high-quality, correctly blended 2-stroke oil keeps your chainsaw engine running smoothly. It ensures proper lubrication, reduces carbon build-up and helps extend engine life.
-
Chainsaw Oil: Bar and chain oil keeps the chain running smoothly along the guide bar, reducing friction and heat. This prevents unnecessary wear, improves cutting performance, and helps your chain last longer.
-
Rotatech Chainsaw Gloves: Good grip and protection are essential when maintaining or sharpening your chain. Rotatech gloves offer enhanced dexterity and safety, helping you work confidently while reducing the risk of cuts or slips.
For more expert guidance, visit the Rotatech blog or get in touch.