Whether you have a new chainsaw or have been using it for a while, a weird noise from it can be concerning. You’ll want to figure out what is happening and fix the problem before it becomes something bigger. So, let’s go over some reasons this may be happening.
Your chainsaw may make noise if the chain is too loose or does not have the right chain. It may also not have proper lubrication since you will hear parts grinding together. Loose screws and broken springs can also cause strange noises and need immediate repairs to avoid further damage.
Let’s go into more detail as to why these issues cause strange noises. I’ll also go briefly into what you can do to fix them.
1. Chain Is Too Loose or Tight
One major reason your chainsaw may be making strange noises during use is a chain that’s too tight or loose. Not only will this create a strange sound, but it can also be dangerous. [This is How Tight Your Chainsaw Chain Should Be]
If the chain is too tight, it can cause a lot of friction with the bar, creating a grinding sound. Also, the tightness of the chain may prevent it from moving at all. So, you may hear the bar struggling to move the chain and grinding against it.
If the chain is too loose, you may hear it ringing as you try to use it. The chain should never be loose enough to rattle upon contact with whatever material you are cutting.
Either way, a chain that doesn’t have enough (or has too much) tension can be dangerous. If your chain is too tight or loose, it will move while you’re using the chainsaw and potentially cause serious injuries or worse.
How To Fix
The solution to this problem is straightforward enough: Make sure the chain has the right tightness. Luckily, you don’t have to be a rocket scientist to do this.
To check and ensure that your chain is tight enough, I recommend the snap test (source). Basically, you use two fingers to pull the chain and try to snap it back into place. If you can’t pull the chain at all, it’s too tight. If the chain doesn’t snap back, it’s too loose.
That said, keep in mind that your chain should have some slack to it. As I’ve explained earlier, an overly tight chain is just as bad for your chainsaw as a loose one. So, make sure the chain has just the right amount of tension to avoid strange noises during use.
2. Lack of Lubrication
Lubricating your chainsaw is vital for its overall performance and upkeep. Without adequate lubrication, the chain and the bar will have too much friction, causing damage and overheating (source).
How To Fix
Like the loose chain issue, the solution to this problem is fairly simple: Just apply the right amount of lubricant to your chainsaw.
If you need a good option for lubricant oil to keep your chainsaw running smoothly, just do a quick search on Amazon for chainsaw bar oil (link to Amazon).
3. Clutch Spring
You may be dealing with a weak or broken clutch spring if your chainsaw produces a more high-pitched, almost ringing noise.
See, your chainsaw has three clutch springs that allow it to work properly. Essentially, the clutch is what allows the chainsaw engine to run without turning the chain (source). Without it, the chain would start spinning as soon as you crank the chainsaw.
As the clutch springs begin to wear out, you’ll hear the strange high-pitched sound that indicates the clutch drum is coming in contact with the shoe. If this is left unchecked, it can cause the clutch to fail and the chain to move while the chainsaw is idling.
How To Fix
Thankfully, clutch springs are pretty cheap and tend to come in packs of three. I recommend replacing them all, even if only one seems to be damaged. You can usually replace them yourself, but if you’re not comfortable doing so, you can always get professional assistance.
4. Loose Cylinder Screws
As you use your chainsaw, you may notice a strange ringing noise now and then. This can be indicative of loose cylinder screws.
Chainsaw cylinder screws tend to loosen over time due to ordinary wear and tear. If they loosen too much, they can cause more issues with your chainsaw. So, make sure to keep an eye on the tightness of the cylinder screws.
How To Fix
First, you should check to see how many cylinder screws you have. Many chainsaws have two, but others may have more. Make sure you tighten all of them to help your chainsaw run more quietly and efficiently. If you see any that are damaged, replace them as soon as possible.
5. Wrong Chain
You may have a noisy chainsaw if you aren’t using the right chain. Not every chainsaw chain can fit every chainsaw. If the chain isn’t the right size, it may become too tight or too loose. As I’ve explained earlier, this is bad for your chainsaw and your safety.
How To Fix
Of course, the solution to this problem is to have the right chain. If you don’t already know what type of chain you have, look up your chainsaw model online and check the specifications. Once you have that information, you can easily buy a replacement chain.
Final Thoughts
As you know, chainsaws typically aren’t quiet, but there’s a difference between the ordinary noise of a chainsaw and a noise indicating something is wrong. I’ve listed some of the most common problems that can cause strange noises.
You can fix most of these problems yourself. If you’re not comfortable with a DIY job on your chainsaw, however, you can always take it in for professional repairs. In any case, you’ll want to catch these issues early before they spiral out of control.