Some people prefer electric chainsaws over gasoline models. While an electric chainsaw has its limitations in terms of dependency on electrical input and power output, it also frees you from the tension of mixing oil and gas before adding in a 2-stroke gasoline chainsaw. Despite the nature (electric or gasoline) of the chainsaw, all chainsaws need chain tightening regularly. Checking and maintaining proper tension on the chainsaw is very important as the performance, and operational effectiveness depends on it. In this article, we will discuss how you can tighten the chain on an electric chain saw. This guide will also explain how to test your chainsaw’s chain tension, the appropriate chain tension on an electric saw, and the dangers of running a loose chain.
Testing the Chain Tension
Remember to check the chain tension on your chainsaw before putting it to use. A loose chain will not give accurate results and is a hazard during cutting. The simplest way to test the chain tension is to notice the flats on the chain. If they hang out from the bar groove or are too tight, the chain needs adjusting. Pull the chain away from the bar to its maximum and then let go of it. If the chain comes back in its place, it is tight, and you can continue with your work. If the chain doesn’t come back to its place, it is loose and needs to be tightened.
Safety Precautions before Tightening the Chain
- Make sure your chainsaw is turned off, and the wire is plugged out.
- The chain must be stopped before checking it.
- The chainsaw must not be hot while checking the chain tension.
- Wear work gloves and don’t wear loose clothing such as bracelets, chains, and rings while working.
The Appropriate Tension
An appropriate tension on the chain means that it is neither too loose and nor too tight. The right chain tension depends on the saw temperature. If you haven’t started cutting yet, the chain must fit closely to the guide bar. If your saw is warmed up and you are checking the tension after cutting a few trees, the drive links should hang approximately 1/16th of an inch out of the guide bar groove. When the chainsaw is cooled, and you need to check the tension, the chain must be turned by hand without any extra effort. It is the simplest way to check the chain tension. Using this checking technique, you can check the chain tension during working, and when the chainsaw is cold.
How to Tighten the Chain on an Electric Chainsaw?
Adjusting the chain on a chainsaw is easy to do but a technical thing. When you have confirmed that the chain on your chainsaw needs to be tightened, you can follow the following steps to get it done.
- Loosen the bar retaining nuts. You don’t need to remove them. The best tool for this is to use the key that comes with your electric chainsaw. If you don’t have one, you can easily buy one from a nearby hardware store or order online from the company’s website.
- Lift the guide bar tip and rotate the tensioning screw clockwise to adjust the tightness. This screw is located on the other side of the bar retaining nuts. If you can’t find it, refer to the instruction manual that came with your chainsaw. Some models come with a tensioning screw on the front panel, others have it located on the side panel, and some feature a handle/lever to adjust the chain tension.
- The right tensioning will depend on the saw temperature. We have already explained this concept above.
- Now lift the guide bar tip again to check the tensioning. If the chain is still too loose and there is too much space between the guide bar and the chain, you need to move the chain tensioning screw again. A half-turn will be enough. Check again and repeat the process if needed.
- If the chain gets too tight now, a quarter-turn of the tensioning screw in the anti-clockwise direction will be enough to adjust it nicely for you.
- You must be able to move the chain with your hand when the chainsaw is cool.
- After getting the right tension, lift and hold the guide bar tip up and tighten the retaining nuts. That’s it. You are done with adjusting the chain on your electric chainsaw.
Some Pro Tips
- Always loosen the chain after cutting trees with it. The reason behind this is that the chain tightens up as it cools down. If you have tightened the chain before use, too much tension can damage the saw and the bar.
- Flip the bar after cutting a large amount of wood with your chainsaw. The reason is that the bottom part of the guide bar gets a lot of wear and tear after a big work session. Turning the sides will help you get better mileage from the bar and enhance the chainsaw’s performance.
- If you have brakes on your electric chainsaw, disengage them before starting to work.
Risks Associated with working with a Loose Chain
- A loose chain will cause damage to the guide bar. You will have to force the saw in the wood by applying extra pressure on it. It can lead to accidents during work and reduce the life of your chainsaw.
- The chain can come loose and cause severe injuries.
- A tight chain is also a risky situation. It can snap and cause damage to your chainsaw and hurt you pretty badly.
- The bar oil will need to be refilled frequently when the chain is too tight.