Chainsaw Chain Direction: Which Way Does the Chain Go. Chainsaw blade installation

Chainsaw Chain Direction: Which Way Does the Chain Go?

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Getting your chainsaw’s chain direction wrong in the middle of cutting wood slows down work and can cause accidents.

There’s no need for a fancy digital caliper to fix this common problem. In this article, our experts will clearly explain how to gauge your chainsaw chain correctly and the basics of mounting direction.

What is the Right Chain Direction?

The most common question that a lot of users ask is why the chainsaw’s chain direction matter. When replacing a blade, or any part of your chainsaw, many often place the chain in the wrong direction, which leads to accidental damage on the machine.

You’ll want the blades rotating above the chainsaw bar, and with the latter situated on the left side, it should spin in a counter-clockwise direction. This puts the cutting edges faced away from the motor engine.

If it’s moving in a backward direction, then it’s positioned wrong.

How to Identify the Direction of Your Chainsaw Chain

Mounting the chain and getting the right blade direction is confusing even for a regular chainsaw user. An experienced user who has operated chainsaws for long probably knows all the tricks already, but anyone can still experience this common pitfall.

Check Chainsaw Blade Direction

Even when you’re using a heavier and bigger electric or gas chainsaw. the positioning of the blades stays in only one direction. If it’s in a direction opposite the chainsaw engine, then your chainsaw blade direction is on a good start.

The cutter tip or pointed edge should always face in the direction the chainsaw blade rotates. Keep the blades pointed to the right, putting the tip of the bar away from the engine.

How to Get the Chainsaw Chain Direction Correct

Step #1: Detach the Chainsaw Casing

To start disassembling your chainsaw, remove the chainsaw casing and clutch cover from the chainsaw body.

Adjust the chain tension to loosen the nuts and disengage the chain break before putting out the clutch cover. Then, remove the side casing to get to the bar and chain to fully disengage the casing.

Step #2: Remove the Chain

When the tension is already loose, you can easily pull off the chain from the sprocket. Carefully pull away the chain from the chain bar. Lay everything on the ground and keep all materials intact. These old pieces can be useful guides when finding replacement chains.

Step #3: Identify the Direction of the Chainsaw Chain

To pin down the correct chainsaw direction, check out these 3 essential variables: the drive links, cutter, and guide blade.

First, determine if the drive links, or the wavy-shaped piece, are pointing forward. If it’s on the reverse side, then you might want to toss your chains to the correct direction.

Next, inspect the cutter. The chainsaw blade is often percepted as the guide blade. Remember that the long tails or the sharp edges are the cutting blade and are always in the same direction as the chain links.

Lastly, check the direction of the guide blade. The guide blade should be directed in front of the cutter so it’s facing the opposite way.

Step #4: Check if the Drive Link, Cutter, Guide are in Order

The drive link, cutter, and guide should always come in this specific order to assess that you are in the correct chainsaw chain direction. These pieces come one after the other. If you’re faced with a sequence where the guide comes first before the chainsaw blade, then you’re definitely on a backwards chain.

Step #5: Put the Chainsaw Back Together and Tighten the Blade

After inspecting the chainsaw direction, it’s time to reassemble the chainsaw with the correct replacement chain. Wrap your new chain around the guide bar and ensure that the chain link is fixed into the bar track, while the sharp edge should be faced outside or upwards.

What Happens When the Chainsaw Chain is Set to the Wrong Direction

The cutting teeth of the chain are fabricated to bite in the right direction only. So when you mount a chain in the wrong direction. the blunt edge of cutters hitting wood will be forced. And the downside is that you still end up with smokes instead of actual cutting.

Not even a good bar oil can fix a chain in reverse. You’re also at risk of a broken chain and waste bar oil damage.

When Should I Replace My Chainsaw Chain?

Knowing when to replace your chain saves you a trip to your chainsaw dealer. To maximize your saw’s performance, it’s best to replace your chains once the following telltale signs appear:

If the chains are producing rougher threads [1]. and you’re having trouble with cutting positions brought about by the chainsaw shakes, then it’s high time to replace your chains. Also inspect the chainsaw teeth direction. If you often position it reversely, this may be another reason why the teeth of the chain dull out easily.

For Saker mini chainsaw units. p urchasing a replacement chainsaw chain is not an issue because their website has them readily available.

Chainsaw Direction of Blade

Chainsaws are one of the most popular tools in a home owner’s arsenal and the blades are very sharp for the tasks they are required for. They’re perfect for chopping up tree limbs, clearing brush and making your yard look nice.

If you move it the wrong way, not only will this cause an accident to yourself or something else nearby, but your chainsaw blade may also be damaged in the process.

When you need to use your chainsaw, how do you know which way the blade should go? Chainsaws work best when the cutting edges of your chain are facing away from you. This is usually accomplished by placing the engine on the right side and making sure the chain rotates in a counter-clockwise direction with the sharp cutting edges facing away from the engine.

If you’re a chainsaw expert, then you’ll know that even the most minor of mistakes can cause significant damage to your equipment and potentially injure you in the process.

A chainsaw is a powerful tool, but it can also be your worst enemy if you’re not careful. If the blade becomes blunt or breaks off and needs to be replaced, always remember that there are two different ways of installing the new one: left-handed or right-handed.

Think about which way will work best for you before making any decisions so as not to cause damage by going against what’s written in the owners manual. The chain should always go in the “righty tighty” direction (or vice versa) because this ensures proper tensioning during use when tightened with an Allen wrench through its axle nuts. Without enough tension applied at these points, over time the material being cut may end up jammed between cutting surfaces.

How to tell the Direction of a Chainsaw Chain

If you’re a homeowner, chainsaws are a staple in your toolbox. If you’re unsure of how to tell the direction of a chainsaw chain, don’t worry! This blog post will teach you everything you need to know.

So why does a chainsaw blade need to run in the right direction? The answer is simple: it won’t function correctly and could be dangerous. Why would you want that when there are other options for dealing with your problem, such as using an electric saw instead of using a chainsaw that is difficult to control if it’s not working properly? It’s super important that people make sure they’re using their chainsaw correctly before proceeding with any cutting or trimming jobs.

Chainsaws have one moving part that keeps the chain tight so that it doesn’t come off and spin around wildly while you’re trying to cut something. The engine of the saw will tighten up the chain automatically as well if you let go of the throttle trigger on the handle for too long.

Chainsaws are not designed to run in reverse to the direction that they were originally made – with all of its cutting blades facing towards your body instead of away from it. This is why safety precautions should always be taken before operating this tool – and yet many people continue risking their lives without any understanding of how potentially life-threatening their actions can be.

Chainsaw Chain Direction Picture

A chainsaw has many benefits. One of these is the ability to cut through thick tree parts with ease, making it an efficient and effective way for clearing large areas. However, if you’re not using this machine in a safe manner then all that power can be used against you – putting the user at risk from injuries like bone fractures and severe cuts!

For those unfamiliar with how to use this tool properly, understanding what direction should go on which end might seem overwhelming and confusing. In order to know whether your blade orientation is correct (and stay as healthy as possible), take note of one very simple indicator – ‘the chainsaw teeth‘.

Chainsaws rely on the chain and blade to cut through whatever material you’re working with. The top of a chainsaw’s saw-blade has two edges, one sharp and one dull.

When the blade is rotating clockwise as it should (you can tell by looking at its direction), then the chainsaw blades will move in an upstroke motion that cuts into what they hit.

The direction of a chainsaw’s blade always rotates clockwise – if it does not rotate this way then something may be wrong with the engine or tensioner which needs to be fixed immediately.

A key thing to look out for when inspecting your chainsaw to see if it has been properly set up for use is by looking at its teeth. Both sides should look like they’re lined up correctly.

The blade’s direction should be from left to right, that is a clockwise direction; otherwise, your blade will run in the wrong direction. To check if you have placed it correctly, look at where the chainsaw engine and its chain are located.

The chainsaw engine should be on this same side to ensure optimal performance for cutting tasks. If not set up correctly, then the chainsaw will run in the wrong direction which would mean wasted work time due to poor results.

The chainsaw blade will have the opposite appearance when viewed from the top as opposed to looking at it from below. You can check this by seeing that if your chain replacement direction is done correctly, then you should be able to see how sharp edges of a rotating clockwise motion.

The bottom of the blade should be facing towards the engine or body, while its sharp edges are rotating from clockwise to counterclockwise.

Replacing your Chainsaw Chain

• The first thing that needs to be done is to take off any objects blocking your view. This could include a safety guard or anything else in between what’s being worked on and one of the eyes.
• Next up, check if there are two nuts at each end of the handle. If this applies to your model of chainsaw, unscrew them from left to right by twisting with both hands using an even pressure so they don’t come loose suddenly while tinkering around with other things underneath and causing damage.
• Next, take out the old chain and discard it. Make sure to not forget about the oil that’s still in there as well because if you don’t put new chainsaw oil on this piece of equipment before using it again, your new chainsaw chain might not work as efficiently as it should.
• Carefully replace the chainsaw chain and make sure the teeth are facing down and that it’s all lined up properly. Check to see if there is a gap between any of them or anything else in-between because this could cause injury when using it next time.
• Then, tighten each side nut by the handle and then use your wrench or Allen key to make sure everything is tight and nothing has come loose.

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As someone who has been cutting trees for 20 years, I have seen accidents happen in an instant.

So I always use these kevlar chainsaw gloves. ear protection. a safety helmet, and chainsaw chaps when handling a chainsaw.

Don’t take unnecessary risks. protect yourself and your body by using the proper protective gear.

A chainsaw with a dull, poorly maintained chain won’t cut cleanly or effectively—and it’s a safety hazard to boot. Follow these guidelines to sharpen a chainsaw and keep your trusty tool in good working order.

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Like any other tool in your arsenal, a chainsaw must be properly and consistently maintained in order to perform effectively. Of course, you can hire a professional to sharpen your chainsaw, but most DIYers can learn how to sharpen a chainsaw in order to handle the job on their own and save some money in the process.

If you’ve noticed that your chainsaw no longer cuts as easily and cleanly as it once did, it’s a good time to learn how to sharpen the chainsaw blade and check for dull or sharpened teeth. If you’re unsure about how to proceed, read on to learn how to sharpen a chainsaw chain and keep the chainsaw blade in good working order.

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Chainsaw maintenance requires a basic understanding of the tool’s component parts. Most models owned by homeowners typically include the following parts:

• Engine
• Drive mechanism
• Guide bar
• Chain
• Heel
• Toe
• Notch
• Side plate
• Top plate
• Gullet
• Depth gauge
• Rivet hole

Choosing the Right Chainsaw File

Chainsaw files are made in specific sizes that match up to the size and shape of the chainsaw teeth. If the file is too large or too small then it can be difficult to properly sharpen the blade. While there are many sizes, the most popular file sizes are 4 millimeters, 4.8 millimeters, and 5.5 millimeters. Always check your user manual to be certain that you are using the correct file.

• 4 mm: This file size is typically paired with chainsaws that have a chain pitch of 0.25 of an inch. The code number to reference on the depth gauge is 1.
• 4.8 mm: The code number on the depth gauge is 2, which indicates that the chainsaw should be sharpened with a 4.8-millimeter file that’s suitable for the 0.325-inch chain pitch.
• 5.5 mm: Used with chainsaws that have a 0.404-inch chain pitch, this file size is noted by code number 4, located on the chainsaw depth gauge.

Sharpening a Chainsaw Chain

When a chainsaw is sharp it’s easier and safer to use the tool, minimizing wear and tear on the machine and improving overall efficiency. There are telltale signs to look for if a chainsaw chain needs to be sharpened. Take action and grab a sharpener ff you notice any of the following:

• Pay attention to the chainsaw debris. If the saw is spitting out dust instead of sharp wood chips then it likely needs sharpening.
• Similarly, if you find that you need to put more physical effort into cutting through wood, then this is a sign that the teeth on the chain are dull.
• Another indication that the chain needs sharpening is if the blade tends to pull to one side more than the other. You will need to sharpen the chainsaw chain to even up the cutting teeth.

How to Sharpen a Chainsaw

There are two approaches to sharpening a chainsaw: First, the task can be handled by means of an electric chainsaw sharpener. (If you fell trees frequently, electric chainsaw sharpeners are an indispensable convenience.) Another option is manual sharpening, using a combination of muscle, sweat, and sharpening files.

Since electric sharpeners are used mainly by tradesmen, these tips FOCUS on the manual method of sharpening using a chainsaw sharpening tool, which is more common and accessible to DIYers.

Because the chainsaw chain comprises a series of teeth, you need a chainsaw file that precisely matches up with the size of an individual tooth in the chain. For reference, the most common sizes are 3/16-inch, 5/32-inch, and 7/32-inch.

Note: Consumer-friendly chainsaw sharpener file kits, like this Katzco chainsaw sharpener file kit, conveniently include everything you need to sharpen any common size.

STEP 1: Clean the chainsaw chain.

Once you’ve obtained a file of the correct size, put on appropriate safety equipment, like work gloves and safety glasses. Next, begin work by thoroughly cleaning the chain, removing all oil, dirt, and debris. Use an old towel and a screwdriver to do this. Depending on the condition of the chain, you may also need to use mineral spirits.

Inspect the chain as you’re cleaning it. If any of the teeth are damaged, the chain may be unsafe to use. Instead of proceeding to sharpen the chainsaw, you might first need to repaired or replace the chain.

STEP 2: Set the chain tension.

The chain on your chainsaw needs to be set to a specific tension in order to prevent problems while you work. A loose chainsaw chain increases the chance that the saw will kickback or that the chain will be thrown off the guide bar. A chain that is too tight may not move at all, or may increase the amount of friction between the parts and cause excess heat to build up. Overheated parts increase the risk of fire—and significantly reduce the parts’ lifespan.

To avoid this issue, set your chain tension by locating and adjusting the tensioning screw on the side or front of the saw, then turn the screw clockwise to increase the tension or counterclockwise to loosen the chain. Test the chain by pulling it from the underside of the guide bar so that one or two links pull away from the bar. Release the chain and it should snap directly into position, indicating that the chain is tight enough to use. If you cannot pull the chain away from the bar, it is too tight and needs to be loosened. If the chain does not snap back into position, it’s too loose and needs to be tightened.

STEP 3: Stabilize the chainsaw.

For best results, you need to firmly stabilize the chainsaw before attempting to file the chain. Some choose to place the chainsaw in a vise, with the clamps holding the guide bar in such a way that the chain can rotate freely. Alternatively, you can enlist a helper to keep the tool steady while you work.

STEP 4: Begin sharpening at the shortest cutter.

Locate the shortest cutter blade on the chain (the cutters are the ones with flat tops). This is where you should start with the chainsaw sharpener. If all of the cutters are the same height, then you can start with any tooth on the chain. However, remember to mark—with a pencil, marker, or even nail polish—the first one that you sharpen, so that you continue to work in the same chainsaw chain direction.

STEP 5: Stroke the teeth at an angle.

Set the file into the notched section at the head of the cutter. Holding the file at an angle—the same angle at which the notch was initially ground or most recently filed—slide the file across the teeth, twisting it somewhat so as to create friction as you stroke. Reference a chainsaw sharpening angle chart, for help determining the proper angle. From that initial cutter, proceed to file every second cutter around the chain.

STEP 6: Sharpen the other side of the chain.

Now reverse the saw and proceed to file each of the teeth that you left alone in the course of your first pass. When you’ve finished, the flat tops of all the cutters should be more or less precisely the same length.

STEP 7: Check your depth gauges.

Finally, inspect the depth gauges (these are the curved links between the cutters). Each depth gauge, or raker, should be shorter than the adjacent cutter. If you find a depth gauge with a height that exceeds its closest cutter, file down the raker so that it sits about 1/10 of an inch below the height of its cutter counterpart.

Working with an Electric Chainsaw Sharpener

If you are working with an electric chainsaw sharpener, then you will need to measure the pitch and gauge of the chain in order to determine the appropriate sharpening stone to use with the chainsaw, as well as the correct tooth angle.

Place the chainsaw chain on the sharpener and tighten the vise to hold the chain in place. Once you have all the angles set according to the grinding angles chart (typically included with an electric chainsaw sharpener), you can lower the grinding wheel to the chain in order to sharpen the current cutting tooth. Loosen the vise and slide the chain to line up the next cutting tooth, then tighten the vise and sharpen the tooth with the grinding wheel.

• Always measure the chainsaw chain and refer to the product manual for the correct sharpening setup.
• Make sure to set the wheel depth stop to prevent the grinding wheel from coming into contact with the chain chassis.
• Complete all right-hand cutting teeth in sequence, then all left-hand cutting teeth in sequence to avoid switching back and forth.

Maintaining Your Chainsaw Blade

Whether you use your chainsaw infrequently to cut firewood or you regularly head out to maintain the forested areas on the property, different chainsaws operate slightly differently and have different maintenance requirements. Study the manual that came with your chainsaw to understand the needs of your specific model.

It’s almost invariably true that every part of a chainsaw either must have or would benefit from lubrication with a petroleum-based bar and chain oil. This involves simply pouring the lubricating oil into the saw’s chain oil reservoir, where the oil is gradually dispersed to help keep the saw functioning properly while you work.

• Occasionally inspect the motor and chain, adding lubrication when necessary.
• Confirm on a regular basis that there’s a sufficient quantity of oil in the tool’s reservoir.
• Check the guide bar, which holds the chain in place. It can become twisted or bent during use.
• Avoid problems by ensuring the integrity of the guide bar before you start up your chainsaw, each and every time. Even while you’re working, it’s wise to occasionally spot-check this crucial part of what is, after all, a powerful and potentially dangerous tool.

Final Thoughts

Now that you know how to sharpen a chainsaw, bear in mind that the more frequently you use the tool, the more often it’s going to need maintenance. If you are using the chainsaw for hours on end over the course of a day, you may need to pause at some point in order to restore the chain’s sharpness. Some chainsaws are likely to show wear in specific areas more than others. Pay special attention to the area near the tip of the saw, particularly if you often use it for cutting tree limbs.

Learning how to sharpen a chainsaw isn’t difficult, making it a great task for avid DIYers. Just make sure that you wear appropriate safety equipment while cutting and sharpening. Consider using safety glasses, gloves, hearing protection, and chainsaw chaps to help protect you from cuts and punctures.

FAQs About Sharpening a Chainsaw

Learning how to sharpen a chainsaw is a helpful skill set for frequent users, reducing the tool’s downtime. While it’s a straightforward process, there are many questions that users ask. Below are answers to some of the most popular questions about sharpening a chainsaw.

Q: How tight should a chainsaw chain be?

To check the tension of a chainsaw chain, pull one or two links of the chain down from the underside of the bar. Release the chain and it should snap back into place.

If the chain is too tight, then you won’t be able to pull the chain away from the bar. However, if the chain is too loose, then it will remain slack. Tighten or loosen the chain with the tensioning screws located on the front or side of the chainsaw.

Q: When do you know it’s time to replace a chainsaw chain?

If you regularly sharpen and properly maintain your chainsaw, then it should be easy to notice when it’s time to replace the chain. Look for clear signs of overuse or tool failure, such as severe dents in the chain, rusting, uneven cuts, and a chainsaw blade that regularly overheats and smokes while in use.

Q: How long should a chainsaw blade stay sharp?

The duration of time between sharpenings really depends on the amount that the saw is used. A chainsaw may only need to be sharpened once a year if it is rarely used, but a tool that is frequently used will need to be sharpened regularly to ensure that the blade doesn’t get too dull. On average, a chainsaw blade will retain its sharpness for about 3 hours of actively cutting through wood.

Q: Why does my chainsaw blade dull so quickly?

There are several reasons why a chainsaw blade may dull quickly. Some common ways are from overuse, steep angled cutting teeth, cutting through dirty wood, or working with difficult wood like hickory, ironwood, and black oak.

Q: How often should you flip the bar on a chainsaw?

Depending on the amount that the chainsaw is used, you can opt to flip the bar at the end of every use while cleaning up, or you can keep the bar in the same position until it comes time to replace the chainsaw blade. As long as the bar gets flipped semi-regularly to help even out the wear-and-tear on the tool, the frequency with which it is flipped isn’t as important.

Which Way Does A Chain Go On A Chainsaw? Easy Way To Find

Think of a situation where you get your chainsaw and yourself ready to cut the wood, but the chain starts troubling because of its wrong direction. Remember that getting the chain direction wrong is one of the classic blunders most chainsaw operators encounter. You are also welcome to the squad if facing the same issue.

A chainsaw will never cut the right because of the chain’s wrong direction. If you don’t know which way a chainsaw blade goes, understand that when the chainsaw bar is present left to the chainsaw engine, the chain will rotate in the counter-clockwise direction while the cutting edges will be facing away from the engine!

We can feel your pain and want to keep you safe from the wrestle of getting the chainsaw direction right in the middle of the project; that is why we are here to help you. Here, you will get to know which way does a chain go on a chainsaw in detail. So, let’s start learning without making a delay another second!

Which Way Does A Chain Go On A Chainsaw?

It is important to ensure that the chainsaw chain moves in the right direction. In case it is not, your tool will become ineffective and dangerous to operate. Therefore, check the direction of a chainsaw blade before operating it!

Install chainsaw chain properly. Don’t ruin your saw.

The chainsaw will never cut right with a backward chainsaw direction of rotation. Also, this direction of chainsaw chain rotation is not safe as all the cutters face the operator, which can be a bit dangerous.

HOW TO PUT ON A CHAIN SAW CHAIN THE RIGHT WAY

To understand the direction of chainsaw blade rotation, you just need to learn what you have to look at. You can see the cutters and guides at the top of the chainsaw chain. You will find two cutters side by side, one of them will be facing left, and the other one will be facing right. They alternate along the chainsaw chain blade.

When the chain saw blade direction is right, the cutters on the top of the bar will face in the forward direction or towards the end of the bar. Remember, the cutter slant upward from the back direction to forward. Also, you can feel that one end of the cutters is pretty sharp as it has to be cut!

As you know, there are also guides in addition to the cutters, so in front of each cutter, you will find the guides. You may feel it like the dorsal fin of a shark. So, when you operate the chain, the shark will swim away from you over the top of the chainsaw bar. So, that means you are operating the saw in the right chain blade direction. Also, you will notice that the curved side of the guide will be faced in the forward direction while the guide’s point will be pointed in the backward direction.

The guides control the size of the cut, but they don’t cut the wood. So, the cutters will decide how big or small a cut should be when cutting the wood. Also, there will be driver links at the underside of the chain.

The driver links sit inside the grooves of the chainsaw bar. The purpose of these links is to keep the chainsaw chain on the right path. So, because of these links, the chain stays on the path and never flies off the chainsaw bar. If the chain flies off the bar, it can cause severe accidents.

The driver links also have different numbers, which indicates the pitch and gauge. The driver links the curve into a point that moves forward while sitting on the top of the chainsaw bar!

What Is The Right Direction For A Chainsaw Chain?

One frequently asked question by the chainsaw operators is why chain direction on chainsaw matters. When replacing chain on chainsaw, changing the saw blade, or any other part, people usually place the chainsaw chain in the wrong direction, which results in accidents and damage to both the machine and operator!

Remember that the chain always travels in the clockwise direction. In this way, you can easily see if you try to look from the side. So, if you are holding the chainsaw and operating it, a clockwise direction means the chain is going away from you while moving over the top of the bar. Also, while moving the underside of the bar, the chain will move towards your side.

Keep in mind chainsaw is a dangerous tools. The chainsaw-related accidents affect more than 36,000 people annually. It is why you need to be very careful, be aware of the safety features of your chainsaw and always ensure that chain is moving away from you.

The chainsaw is like a bunch of knives cutting simultaneously and being operated by a powerful engine. Therefore, the proceeding will be safe if the chain moves away from you on top of the chainsaw bar. But, if the chainsaw blade moves in the backward direction, remember that it has been positioned wrong!

How Can You Replace The Chainsaw Chain?

You will have to replace the chainsaw chain if it gets damaged or has become old. To use your chainsaw longer, replace it with a priority once you feel the chain is not cutting the way it used to be.

If you don’t know how to replace chainsaw chain, remember that it is not a complicated process. But, if you replace chain on chainsaw incorrectly, it will keep your safety at risk. Therefore, you must learn how to change chain on the chainsaw correctly before putting chain on chainsaw.

So, to ease the process of changing or replacing the chainsaw chain for you; here is a guide on how to change the chain on a chainsaw:

Step 1: Remove the Chainsaw Cover

When you are going to replace chain on the chainsaw, the first thing you need to do is to remove the chainsaw cover. After that, you can easily access the chainsaw chain and bar. Also, don’t forget to remove the chainsaw clutch.

With most chainsaws, manufacturers provide a tool called a scrench. The “T” shaped tool has a flathead screwdriver at one end and two wrenches at the other side. So, with the help of two different wrench sizes, you can easily remove the chainsaw’s spark plug. Also, use this tool to remove the two nuts holding the chainsaw cover in its place.

For the removal of the chainsaw casing, you will have to follow the following steps:

• Remove the nuts which are holding the chainsaw cover
• Now, you can easily pull the chainsaw cover. Once you have removed the chainsaw cover, place it aside
• Place the chainsaw casing so that it faces down and forms a bowl. After that, put the nuts in the bowl. If you lose any of these nuts, you will lose your tool!

Step 2: Take off the Chainsaw Chain and Chainsaw Bar

The next step of “how to change a chainsaw chain” is to remove the chainsaw bar and chainsaw chain. As you have removed the nuts, you may think these nuts are just holding the chainsaw casing. It may surprise you, but the nuts also hold the chainsaw bar against the body of the chainsaw. So, as you will remove the chainsaw case, the bar will also sage and come out of the alignment.

You will find a tension adjustment screw there. You will have to remove the screws to loosen or remove the bar. When you are replacing the chain, place the saw on its side in such a way that the bar faces the flat-side-up. At this position, you can easily pull up straight.

The chain is wrapped around the driver sprocket, which helps the chain in rotation. Depending on the condition of the chainsaw, it may or may not be an easy job. But, with a little effort, you can pull off the chainsaw bar and chain collectively!

Step 3: Identify the Cutting Direction of the Chainsaw Chain

The third step is to identify the direction of chain on chainsaw. Remember that the cutters, when they are at the top of the chainsaw bar, should face forward towards the end of the chainsaw bar. While the pointy end of the drive links, which are present down into the bar groves, will face the same direction!

But, if you put the chainsaw chain in the backward direction, it will not cut, and your chainsaw will become riskier to be used. With this chainsaw direction of the chain, the motor will move the chain, but you may get metal on the wood. Also, the saw will be cut with erosion. If you feel that there is a lot of smoke, but the saw is not cutting that much, it is a clear sign that the saw is not working properly, and you need to get it right!

Step 4: Assemble Chainsaw Chain and Chainsaw Bar

Now, put all the parts back. The assembly of a chainsaw is an easy process, but it requires a specific order of operations which you need to follow:

• Use the screwdriver at the end of the scrench and lose the tension adjustment screw. When you turn it to the right, the whole assembly will move in the forward direction. Without this step, getting the bar back in its place may not be possible.
• Now, stand up the chainsaw at its butt end so that the chainsaw bar tip stays in the air.
• Drape the chainsaw chain over the bar tip. Make sure that the drive links perfectly sit in the grooves and that they are facing the right direction. You must fit the links into the grooves down the top and bottom sides of the chainsaw bar. You may easily perform this step if you pull down the chain and then apply the tension to prevent the drive links from coming out!
• Now, stretch the chainsaw chain over the drive sprockets. But do this before you put the chainsaw bar in its place.
• Place the bar in its place, and fit both bolts at their corresponding holes. While doing so, keep holding the bar steady and fit the chainsaw casing over the chainsaw bar and bolts.
• Put every nut back and tighten them with the help of your hand. For now, don’t crank the nuts down with a scrench!

Step 5: Tension Chainsaw Chain

After putting everything back on the chainsaw, you will now have to adjust the tension of the chainsaw chain. You can use the tension adjustment screw for this purpose. You can find the screw between the two nuts you have tightened in the last step.

Hold the chainsaw bar tightly to keep it in its place so it can be aligned with the chainsaw body. Turn the screw; no need to hurry. While doing so, you will feel that the bar is moving in the forward direction away from the chainsaw’s body. Meanwhile, the chain will also be tightened up.

Put enough amount of tension. You just need to ensure that the drive links have been seated at their place. Remember that too much tension can damage the engine. Lastly, with the help of a scrench, seat the nuts in their place.

Step 6: Test The Chainsaw Chain

You have learned how to install chainsaw chains rightly. But before you start operating the chainsaw, don’t forget to check the chainsaw chain. After reassembly and before cutting the trees, run your saw and check if it is showing any of these signs:

If you don’t witness such signs, congratulations, you have done the job correctly. You have to save hundreds of your dollars! As you know how to install the chain on the chainsaw correctly, any time you face an issue, do it yourself.

Can You Put The Chainsaw Chain On Backward?

Yes, you can put the chainsaw chain backward. The chainsaw chains can be put in both directions (forward and backward). But, if you don’t pay attention, you may mistakenly put the chain in the backward direction, which can be dangerous for your tool!

If you don’t know how to check if your chainsaw chain is backward, check the chain when the saw is running. Check the cutters from the top of the bar; if the cutters are slanted upward from back to forward, the chain has been installed in the right direction. But, if the cutters slant backward, it means the chain has been placed in a backward direction.

Also, while running the chainsaw, the chain is backward if you feel more smoke coming from the saw. As you know, the cutter is directional, so due to the metal-wood direction, you won’t be able to cut the wood!

Disadvantages of Putting the Chainsaw Chain in the Wrong Direction

Getting the right direction of the chainsaw chain can be a bit challenging and frustrating for many of you. Though it can be an annoying and time-consuming task, many problems can occur.

If you operate the chainsaw regularly, you must be aware of the problems that arise because you put the chainsaw in the wrong direction. But, if you are a newbie and don’t know about the issues arising from putting the chainsaw chain in the wrong direction, here we are for you!

The following are the problems you may face because of putting the chainsaw in a backward direction:

Wastage Of Good Bar Oil

When you put the chain of your saw in the wrong direction, it wastes a lot of bar oil, which can be dangerous for your tool. You may fill the bar oil in a specific direction, but as you have put the chainsaw bar in the wrong direction, the bar oil will be used in a short while. Resultantly, you may have to refill the oil before completing the task!

Create Unnecessary Stress On The Guide Bar

The guide bars play an important role when cutting the wood with chainsaws. In case of a wrong alignment or wrong direction of the chainsaw blade, the guide bar will not be able to perform efficiently. Resultantly, a lot of problems can arise.

So, if your chainsaw blade’s direction gets backward, you must stress the guide bars to continue cutting wood. Or, it is also possible that you may not successfully cut the wood, and it will damage your tool so badly!

Damage The Chain Link

Chain links are one of the most important parts of the chainsaw. If the chain links get damaged, you may not be able to operate the chainsaw in the same way as before. Always try to set the links at the bottom position. The chainsaw links can provide enough support to the blade at this position. So, this way, the links allow a very easy and effective propelling. If the links get damaged, try to fix them first to avoid unnecessary damage!

Motor Deterioration

You must put a lot of force into cutting the woods if the chainsaw chain has dull edges. It can badly affect the lifetime of your tool and will significantly impact the performance of the motor of the chainsaw.

Burnout The Clutch

When you start the chainsaw, you must press the clutch for some time. But, if it is not cutting the wood and you are still pressing it after pressing the clutch for a few minutes, it can eventually burn out the clutch. Ultimately, your chainsaw will not operate as efficiently as it can!

Therefore, before starting any project or a new task, don’t forget to ensure that the blade is in its right direction so that the clutch of your saw can work efficiently. Most of the time, in such a situation, it’s the only clutch that burns because the clutch facilitates the saw in proper functioning!

Make Your Skills Doubtful

Placement of the chainsaw blade in the wrong direction is one of the worst situations a chain operator may face. So, placing the chainsaw chain in the right position is crucial, and you must learn this skill. Also, this is one of the necessary abilities the chainsaw users have to prove!

How To Ensure That The Direction Of The Chainsaw Chain Is Right?

Before operating the chainsaw, it is crucial to ensure that you operate it in the right direction. Otherwise, you will not get the required results. Also, operating a chainsaw whose chain has been installed in the wrong direction can be risky and problematic for you. So, how can you know that you have installed the chain in the right direction?

It can be confusing for newbies, but there is no need to worry. We have carefully explained this problem just below. All you need to do is to give a read to this topic:

Check The Chain From Top View

After viewing from the top, you will feel that the top side of the chainsaw has different blades. Each of these blades has two edges, and one of these two is sharp while the other is dull. The chainsaw blade should always rotate in the clockwise direction. Also, remember that the directions of movement of the blade will always be the same regardless of the model or type of chainsaw you are using.

When you operate the chainsaw, the sharp edges of the saw will face the clockwise direction, while if you check it from the top, the sharp will be facing the direction opposite the chainsaw body. So this way, you can guess the right position and direction of the chainsaw blade.

Inspect The Chainsaw From Front And Side View

If you check the chainsaw blade from the side, you will see the chainsaw blade on your right-hand side while the engine will be on your left side. Or, simply, you can say that the direction of the blade must be from left to right side or clockwise direction. Make sure the blade is in the right direction; otherwise, it can be problematic for you!

You should also check the chainsaw from the front side. If the blade is moving in the right direction, the operator can see that the blade is coming from the upside to the downside. But, if it was not coming this way, you have placed the chainsaw in the wrong direction!

Check The Chainsaw Chain From Bottom View

Lastly, check the chainsaw from the bottom. The view of the chainsaw blade will be opposite to the view of the top side. If you have placed the blade in the right direction, the bottom blade will be facing towards the engine or body of the saw. Or, if you have installed the chain in the right direction, the blade will face the chainsaw body or engine. The sharp edges of the chain will rotate from the clockwise to the counter-clockwise direction!

How Can You Run The Chainsaw Blade In The Right Direction?

If you have installed the chainsaw blade, are still not running the right way, and are facing problems while cutting the wood, you have installed the chain the wrong way. But worry not. You can reinstall the chain in the right direction in a few minutes.

But, before you reinstall the chainsaw chain, there are a few steps you can follow to let your chainsaw blade run in the right direction:

i. Attach The Chainsaw Bar

Firstly, attach the chainsaw bar with a chain; for this purpose, you must remove the bolt. Once you have removed the bolt, attach the bar carefully to its exact position. Then, slightly tighten the bolts and adjust the bar properly. Also, ensure that the bar has perfect length per the chain fitting requirements.

When adjusting the bar, do this job to easily place the chain and ensure that chain is perfectly fit. Don’t tighten the chain; make it loose so you can cut perfectly. Also, check that you have installed the chainsaw chain in the right direction!

ii. Inspect The Direction Of The Chain

Checking the direction of the chainsaw chain is an important part step. As you replace the chain because of the faulty blade direction, you must pay attention to every detail. Mount the chain properly. If you have installed the chain in the right direction, your chainsaw will run perfectly without disruption.

iii. Tighten The Chainsaw Blade

Until now, you have not attached the bar but mounted the chain and inspected the blade’s direction, so it is time for the final step. After installing the blade, don’t forget to tighten the chain so the saw can run freely. You should be careful when tightening the chainsaw blade.

How Should Tight Be The Chain On The Chainsaw?

How tight should a chainsaw chain be? Well, it is one of the most commonly asked questions. If, like many of the chainsaw operators, you also don’t know how tight should chainsaw chain be, remember that you can pull a tightened chain, but you will not pull out the drive links from the bar.

If the chainsaw chain is loose, it can easily come off the chainsaw bar while cutting the wood, which can be dangerous. Also, a tight chain can be risky to use. The engine must work hard to run or operate with a tight chain.

Here, you should also learn about the tension of the chainsaw chain. The tension could be a culprit of your chain coming off again and again as you operate the saw. The chain has to do a lot of work and goes through a lot of wear and tear. Therefore, the chainsaw chains usually get stretched, and after long usage, you may not be able to tighten the chain again. So, in that case, instead of searching for how to tighten a chainsaw chain, you must look for a new chainsaw chain!

Lastly, if the sprocket wears out, the chain will not remain tight anymore. But, as you can replace the drive sprockets, so you may not have to change the chainsaw chain! But, if you need to tighten the chain and want to know how to tighten the chain on a chainsaw, move to the next section!

How To Tighten Chainsaw Chain

If your chainsaw chain is loose, it can cause the saw to kick back, which can be very dangerous. It is important to tighten a chainsaw chain to keep your saw running safely and smoothly. The following are tips on how to tighten chain on chainsaw:

• Place the chainsaw on a level surface and engage the brake or clutch (if your saw has one)
• Locate the tensioning device (usually a knob or lever) on the side of the saw.
• Turn the tensioning device to tighten the chain.
• Check the tension by pulling on the bottom of the guide bar. The chain should be tight but not too tight.
• The loose chain comes off the saw while using it. The tight chain can cause the saw to bind and kick back.
• Once the chain is properly tensioned, engage the brake or clutch and make a test cut.
• If the saw kicks back or binds, readjust the tension and try again.
• When you are finished using the saw, turn off the engine and engage the brake or clutch.
• Loosen the chain by turning the tensioning device in the opposite direction.
• Park the saw on a level surface and remove the spark plug to prevent accidental starting.

How To Untangle A Chainsaw Chain?

The following are the different ways that you can untangle a chainsaw chain.

• You can use a pair of pliers to grab onto one of the links and twist it until the chain comes undone.
• Another way is to use a pair of needle nose pliers to grab onto one of the links and then push down on it until the chain comes undone.
• If you have a lot of patience, you can also try to untangle the chain by hand.

Whichever way you untangle your chainsaw chain, ensure you are careful so you do not damage the chain. If you are still confused and are curious to know how to untangle a chainsaw chain, untangle the chainsaw chain with the help of pliers by following these steps:

• Step 1: Remove the saw from the case
• Step 2: Place the saw on a flat surface, such as a workbench
• Step 3: Find the direction of the rotation arrow on the body of the saw (this will be different for each model)
• Step 4: You can use the pliers to twist the first link of the chain in the direction opposite to the rotation arrow
• Step 5: Hold the link in place and pull the chain through the body of the saw
• Step 6: Repeat step number 4 and step number 5 until the chain is untangled
• Step7: Reattach the chain to the saw and put the saw back in the case.

Signs Of A Dull Chainsaw Chain

If you check which direction of a chainsaw blade is moving, it shows that your chainsaw is not cutting at the speed you expected it to be. Also, if there is any issue with the chainsaw blade, it will become difficult to cut with the chainsaw. So, if you also feel it is harder to finish the cut, it’s time to replace chain on chainsaw!

Additionally, the following are the clear signs of a dull chain showing that it’s the right time to replace chain on chainsaw:

• The chainsaw bounces back or vibrates a lot when you cut the wood.
• The operator may have to push the chainsaw while cutting the wood.
• The chainsaw will pull in one direction and will also cut crooked.
• Chainsaws produce very fine sawdust instead of large wooden pieces as they used to be.
• Even though you have properly lubricated the chainsaw, it has produced smoke.

Replace Or Repair the Chainsaw Chain: What Should I Do?

Many of the users fail to decide whether they need to replace or repair the chainsaw chain. If you are facing the same issue, examine your chainsaw chain and find if there are any broken or damaged links. If you find clear damages or missing pieces of the chain, you must replace the chainsaw chain on a priority basis.

But, if you feel that the chainsaw chain is in good shape and intact, you just have to sharpen the chainsaw chain. Remember that a chainsaw chain can bear dozens of sharpening depending on how much material you take off every time!

Many chainsaw manufacturers also mark at the side or top of the chainsaw cutter links and chainsaw guide links. These markings show how much material you can safely remove. So, if you feel that the chainsaw has been sharpened beyond these markings, you should not sharpen the saw as it will not be safe!

How Can You Find The Right Replacement Chainsaw Chain For Your Chainsaw?

At a point in the entire lifespan of a tool, the owner should replace or repair the tool. The same is with your chainsaw chain. You must take the necessary steps to maintain your saw if you want to use the chainsaw for a long time.

Most chainsaw operators find selecting the right replacement for their tool challenging. But, finding the chainsaw replacements for your tool is a bit easy and simple if you follow the following factors:

Pitch

The pitch size depends on the type of chainsaw you are using. Choose a large pitch if you are using your tool for heavy duties. The pitch is the average distance between successive chain links. Or, you can find the pitch by dividing the distance between two links by two. So, you must measure this distance before you purchase a chain to ensure that the new chain will fit the exact pitch as the older one!

The most commonly used pitches are ¼”, 0.325″,0.404″, 3/8″, and 3/8″ low profile. Measuring the chainsaw pitch will be difficult for you. Once you have measured the pitch, everything will become easier!

Drive Link Count

It is the number of driver links your chainsaw chain has. From the number of drive links, one can get an idea about the length of the chain. Also, you can guess whether the chain will fit your saw or not.

You can check your chainsaw’s manual, inspect the chainsaw bar for better selection, or get the right information about your saw.

Gauge

The gauge of the chainsaw tells how deep the grooves on a chainsaw bar are. Or you can also say that the gauge tells you about the depth of the chainsaw chain. If the gauges of chainsaws are high, the chainsaw chain will be heavy.

But, most of the time, gauges of small sizes are used, which is considered standard. You can find the gauges of 0.043-inches, 0.050-inches, 0.058-inches, and 0.063-inches. So, you can get the one for your saw from any of these!

How To Put A Chain Back On A Chainsaw?

If the chainsaw chain has come off, it is likely because the tensioning screw has come loose. To put the chain back on, you must know how to put chain on chainsaw. Here you can find the step-by-step guide on how to put on a chain. You can follow this guide to learn how to put a chain on a chainsaw:

• Make sure that the bar is in the correct position. The bar should be pointing to the right (when you are looking at the chainsaw from the front).
• Then, locate the master link. The master link is the link that has a small clip holding it together.
• Next, take the chain end with the master link and feed it through the bar from the bottom up.
• Then, take the other end of the chain and feed it through the bar from the top down. Ensure that the teeth on the chain point in the correct direction (toward the ground).
• Finally, use the tensioning screw to tighten the chain. Do not over-tighten the chain, as this can damage the bar or the chain!

How Often Should You Sharpen The Chainsaw Chain?

How often should one sharpen the chainsaw chain? You will not get a definitive answer. However, it is recommended that you sharpen the chain after every 5-10 hours of use. It will help keep the chain in good condition and prevent it from becoming dull too quickly. If you notice the chain getting dull before the 5-10 hours, you can sharpen it sooner.

The best way to determine when the chainsaw chain needs to be sharpened is to check it frequently or after each use.

If you see the following signs, sharpen the chain:

• The chain is not cutting as cleanly as it once did
• The chain is starting to bind or get stuck while cutting
• The chain is producing more sawdust than usual
• The chainsaw will produce a lot of noise while cutting

Which Way Does A Chain Go On A Chainsaw: Frequently Asked Questions

What Is The Right Way Of Putting The Chain On Chainsaw?

When installing the chainsaw, ensure that the edges should be placed in the direction of the blade rotation. Also, ensure that the edges are at the top side of the chain bar. The chain will move towards the outer part away from the main device area.

Is It Possible To Put The Chain Back On Chainsaw?

You can put the backward side of the chain on the chainsaw bar, but remember that it will not help you cut. That is why always place the point part of the chainsaw chain outward. Otherwise, the chain can be moved in both directions.

Why Is Chainsaw Chain Smoking?

The dull chainsaw chain exerts pressure on the chain bar to precede the cutting; resultantly, the chainsaw starts smoking. The other reasons for chainsaw smoke could be clogged air filters or excessive oil in the oil-fuel mixture.

Conclusion: Which Way Does A Chain Go On A Chainsaw

Suppose you don’t know which way does a chain go on a chainsaw, keep in mind that when the chainsaw bar is left to the engine, the chain moves in a counter-clockwise direction. At the same time, the cutting edge will always be facing away from the chainsaw engine.

Undoubtedly, powerful tools like the chainsaw are one of the most efficient equipment we need daily to get multiple jobs done efficiently and quickly. But, it is crucial to handle these tools carefully to do the job safely. Otherwise, you can’t stop the inevitable accidents.

So, when you are working with a chainsaw and notice that the chainsaw blade is moving in the wrong direction, you should take a quick step to fix it first.