Whether your chainsaw chain has slipped mid-cut or you’ve taken it off for sharpening, knowing how to put a chain back on a chainsaw is an essential skill for anyone working with wood. The good news? It’s simpler than it looks! And with the right tools and a quality chain, you’ll be back cutting safely in no time.
This guide walks you through the process step by step, with practical tips to help you avoid common mistakes.
What You’ll Need
Before getting started, ensure sure you have:
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A chainsaw chain suited to your saw (pitch, gauge, and drive link count must match - use our guide here to identify yours)
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A scrench (combination spanner/screwdriver)
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Protective chainsaw gloves
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A clean, flat work surface
Using a reliable, well-made chain, such as a Rotatech chainsaw chain, engineered for durability and consistent cutting performance, makes the job easier and helps your saw run more smoothly once reassembled.
Step 1: Make the Chainsaw Safe
First things first:
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Switch the chainsaw off
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Remove the spark plug lead (petrol saws) or battery (cordless saws)
This ensures the saw can’t accidentally start while you’re working on it.
Step 2: Loosen the Side Cover
Using your scrench:
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Loosen (but don’t fully remove) the nuts on the side cover
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Turn the chain tensioning screw anticlockwise to release tension
Once loose, remove the side cover to expose the guide bar and chain area.
Step 3: Position the Chain Correctly
This is the most common point of error.
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Lay the chain around the guide bar, starting at the nose
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Make sure the cutting teeth face forward on the top of the bar
If you’re unsure, the sharp edge of each tooth should point away from the engine when on the top run of the bar. Rotatech chains include clearly defined cutters to make correct orientation easier to spot.
Step 4: Fit the Chain onto the Sprocket
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Slot the chain’s drive links into the groove of the guide bar
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Align the chain with the drive sprocket behind the bar
Ensure the guide bar sits correctly on its mounting studs and that the tensioning pin lines up with the bar hole.
Step 5: Refit the Side Cover
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Replace the side cover
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Hand-tighten the nuts (don’t fully tighten yet)
The chain should still be loose enough to move freely at this stage.
Step 6: Tension the Chain
Now it’s time to set the correct tension:
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Turn the tensioning screw clockwise until the chain sits snugly against the bar
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The chain should move freely by hand but not sag underneath the bar
A properly tensioned chain reduces wear, improves cutting efficiency, and helps prevent derailment.
Step 7: Tighten and Check Again
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Fully tighten the side cover nuts
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Pull the chain around the bar by hand (wear gloves)
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Recheck tension after tightening and adjust if necessary
If the chain feels stiff, slightly loosen it. If it droops, tighten it again.
Final Safety Checks
Before starting the saw:
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Ensure the chain brake is disengaged
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Confirm the chain oil reservoir is filled with quality chainsaw oil
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Start the saw briefly and let it idle to confirm smooth movement
New or freshly refitted chains may need re-tensioning after the first few cuts, so keep your scrench handy.
Why Chain Quality Matters
A poorly made chain is more likely to stretch, derail, or wear unevenly. Rotatech chainsaw chains are precision-manufactured for consistent fit, reduced vibration, and longer service life, making maintenance tasks like refitting quicker and more reliable.
Ready to Get Back Cutting?
With your chain correctly refitted and tensioned, your chainsaw is ready for safe, efficient work, whether you’re pruning, felling, or cutting firewood.
For replacement chains, sharpening tools, gloves, and chainsaw oils, explore the full Rotatech chainsaw range, built for professionals and serious users alike.
