To sharpen a chainsaw chain, you need a round file that is the appropriate size for the chainsaw cutter. The round file should match the width and height of the cutter, typically indicated by a number stamped into the top surface.
For most chainsaw chains, you can use a file that has a diameter between 3/16-inch and 7/32-inch. You’ll also need a depth gauge tool to make sure that the file’s cutting teeth line up with the edges of the chain’s cutters and maintain a consistent depth.
When choosing a file, make sure that it is constructed from hardened steel and has aggressive, teeth pattern to ensure a fast, effective cut.
What is the most common chainsaw file?
The most common chainsaw file is a round file with a diameter of 5/32 of an inch. This type of file is designed to fit into the chainsaw bar grooves so it can sharpen the depth gauges and cutters on the saw chain.
The file should be held perpendicular to the chainsaw so the top cutter edge is filed correctly. It should be used with a wooden handle for safety purposes.
Additionally, for the cutting teeth on the chainsaw, a flat 3/16 inch file should be used. This type of file is used to sharpen the cutting faces of the saw chain blades. During the filing process, it is important to keep the file level so the saw chain remains even.
Again, it is important to use a wooden handle for safety purposes.
An Oregon Chainsaw Sharpening File Kit is a good option if you are uncertain about what type of file to use for your saw chain. The kit comes with two handles and 8 files of varying shapes and sizes, so you can do a wide range of repair work and maintenance on your chainsaw.
What’s the way to sharpen a chainsaw blade?
The best way to sharpen a chainsaw blade is to use a round file specifically designed for sharpening chainsaws. Begin by securing the saw in a vise, with the blade facing up. Extend the blade from the chainsaw, and adjust the depth gauge settings so they are properly aligned with the depth of the cutter (the tooth) on the blade.
Using the round file, start at the base of the cutter and proceed up the blade, pushing the file in direction of the cutter. Move the file along the length of the blade, angling it 4 to 5 degrees so that it touches the base of the cutter, pushing the file away from you.
With each stroke, lift the file, turn it to the next link and repeat the process, ensuring that each stroke is even. Once you have sharpened each cutter and have gone down the full length of the blade, use a depth gauge tool to make sure the depth is properly set.
If a depth gauge is unavailable, use the file to make sure all cutters match the height of the other cutters. Finally, use a flat file to ensure the body of the blade is even or flush. When all of these steps are complete, your chain saw should be ready for use!.
Why does my chainsaw get dull so fast?
There could be several reasons why your chainsaw gets dull so quickly. Firstly, it may not be properly lubricated, as inadequate lubrication causes friction, which makes the chain and cutting teeth dull rapidly.
Additionally, using the wrong type of chain for your particular saw can speed up the dulling process, as it reduces the cutting power and hinders the chain from moving effectively. Finally, if you let dirt and debris build up on the blade, that can cause the chain to corrode prematurely, resulting in quick dulling.
To ensure that your chainsaw stays sharp for as long as possible, make sure that it is properly lubricated and cleaned, and that you are using the right chain for your model.
How do you sharpen a chainsaw chain by hand?
Sharpening a chainsaw chain by hand requires some skill and precision, but it is an achievable task that can save time and even save money if you don’t have access to an electric grinder. It is important to have the right tools on hand – a flat file, a round file, a depth-gauge tool, and a file guide.
To begin, make sure the chainsaw bar is mounted safely and securely to the chainsaw engine. You’ll want to begin by filing the depth gauges, which are the small metal pieces that allow the chain to interact with the chain saw bar.
To do this, place the depth gauge into the corner templates of the guide and use the flat file to file them all to the same depth, then remove the depth-gauge tool.
Once that is done, you can begin to file the chain’s cutters, which can be done with the round file and file guide, following the angle outlined in the chain filing instructions that come with the saw.
To ensure that the cutters have been filed properly, hold the chain up to the light and make sure they have been sharpened evenly.
Once the chain has been sharpened correctly, you’ll want to reset the depth gauges using the depth-gauge tool and the flat file. When finished, the chain might need to be tensioned by turning the tension nut and the tension plate.
Finally, remove any dust and debris from the chain and bar with a rag followed by a light lubrication of the saw chain with a bar and chain oil. Safety is important, so make sure you wear gloves, eye and ear protection, and long sleeves when sharpening the chain by hand.
How do I know if my chainsaw chain is sharp?
To determine if your chainsaw chain is sharp, you should first look at the cutting edges of the teeth. If the teeth are slightly rounded or show signs of wear, the chain is likely not sharp. You should also inspect each chain link for dullness, burrs, and other signs of wear.
If the chain is rusty, it may also be a sign that it is dull.
Additionally, you can test the chainsaw chain to see how it performs when cutting. If it struggles to make cuts and leaves a rough finish, opportunities are the chain is dull and should be sharpened.
If your chainsaw chain is dull, it is important to sharpen it with the correct filing tools and technique. Different chainsaw models require different types of filing so is important to follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully.
The angle of your filing is also important to ensure you get the desired sharpness as well as to extend the life of the chain.
How tight should a chainsaw chain be?
The ideal tension for a chainsaw chain should be slightly loose. It should easily move when you push down on the center of the chain with your thumb. If it is too tight, it could possibly cause wear and tear on the chainsaw engine, resulting in poor performance.
On the other hand, if it is too loose, the chain could come off of the bar, resulting in injury. If the chain does come loose, check to make sure both the bar and chain are still intact before attempting to tighten it.
Always wear gloves and safety glasses when adjusting the chain. When you tighten the chain, make sure not to over-tighten, otherwise it could cause the chainsaw to vibrate excessively, resulting in poor cutting performance.
Test cut a few pieces of wood after adjusting the chain to be sure it is tensioned correctly.
What size saw file do I need?
The size of saw file you need depends on a few factors including the type of saw you have, the size of the blade, and the depth of the file’s teeth. For most hand saws, a 12″ file should be sufficient.
Here’s a handy guide to help you choose the right size saw file:
• Single cut saw file: Use this type of file for a standard saw blade with only one cutting edge. The length of the file should equal the length of the blade, plus one inch.
• Raker saw file: A raker saw has two cutting edges and the size of the raker file should be the same as the length of the blade for smaller saws, but may need to be a couple of inches longer for larger blades.
• Cross-cut saw file: This type of saw file is used for more intricate cuts like sawing across the grain. The length of the file should be equal to the length of the blade, plus one inch. The teeth of a cross cut file also need to be finer than the teeth of a regular saw file.
Lastly, the depth of the file’s teeth should correspond to the depth of the blade’s gullets. If the gullets are shallow, use a file with shallow teeth. If the gullets are deeper, use a file with deep teeth.
To ensure you get the right size saw file for your saw blade, take your blade (or a ruler) to a store that specializes in saws and saw files and the staff should be able to help you select the correct size.
How do I tell the size of a file?
One way to tell the size of a file is to open the folder where the file is stored and take a look at the file size listed in the View menu. The size of the file will be displayed next to the file name usually in kilobytes (KB) or megabytes (MB).
If you’re using a Windows machine, you can also right-click on the file and select “Properties” to open a window which displays the size of file along with other file-related information. Additionally, if you’re using a Mac, you can press the CMD key and the I key together to open the “Get Info” window and view the size of a file.
How many Sharpenings is a chainsaw file good for?
The lifespan of a chainsaw file will vary depending on the frequency and severity of use. Generally speaking, a chainsaw file should last for between 15-20 sharpening sessions. It is important to use quality chainsaw files as they tend to last longer than cheap or dull files.
Additionally, before each use, it is important to check the file’s condition to ensure it is still in good condition, as a dull file will not produce the desired result. Finally, it is important to use the correct technique when using a chainsaw file, as this will maximize the lifespan of the file.
Will a Oregon chain fit a Stihl?
No, Oregon chains will not fit a Stihl. Oregon chains are made to fit onto Oregon bars and sprockets only. Additionally, Oregon chains use a different type of cutter than Stihl chains. The drive link shape of the two chains often differ as well, so it’s important to make sure you get the right chain for the type of saw you intend to use.
To be sure you get the appropriate chain for your Stihl, it’s recommended to purchase a Stihl-branded chain from Stihl or an authorized dealer.
What size chain is on a Stihl ms180?
The Stihl MS 180 has a 3/8″. 043 inch (1.1 mm) chain gauge, which is a standard size for many chainsaws. This is a low profile chain, designed for better cutting and longer life. It is designed for use on the Stihl MS 180 chainsaw, which has an engine size of 1.
2kW, maximum bar length of 16 inches (40 cm), and a chain speed of 29.5 m/s. The 3/8″. 043 inch (1.1 mm) chain gauge is the correct size for use with this particular chainsaw. It is important to use the correct chain size for the saw in order to ensure a safe, effective cut and to extend the life of the chainsaw.
