Squeaky chainsaws can be annoying, but they don’t have to be. You can keep your chainsaw running smoothly and quietly with preventative maintenance and occasional adjustments.
To adjust a squeaky chainsaw, check and tension the chain, file the teeth, and sharpen the chain. These steps are relatively easy to do and only require a few tools. You may also need to clean or replace the guide bar.
Regular maintenance allows you to keep your chainsaw running smoothly and quietly for years. Keep reading for a complete guide on how to adjust a squeaky chainsaw.
1. Chainsaw Maintenance
Maintaining a chainsaw is essential to keeping it in good working condition and extending its lifespan. One key aspect of chainsaw maintenance is ensuring that the chain is well-lubricated. This will help reduce friction and minimize squeaking or grinding noises (source).
Other factors to consider when maintaining a chainsaw include lubricating the bar and ensuring that all moving parts are correctly aligned. This will help prevent the chainsaw from vibrating excessively, which can cause the chain to come loose or damage other components.
Regular upkeep can also help improve safety by minimizing the risk of misfires or other dangerous malfunctions. So if you want to keep your chainsaw running like new, be sure to take the time to regularly maintain it with proper care and attention.
2. Chain Adjustments
If your chainsaw is starting to squeak, you should first check the chain’s tension. The chain should be tight enough that it doesn’t sag but not so tight that it’s difficult to move. If the chain is fitted too loose, it can cause the saw to vibrate and produce a high-pitched noise.
To adjust the chain’s tension, follow the steps below:
- First, loosen the bar nuts.
- Then, use the adjusting screws to tighten or loosen the chain.
- Once you’ve achieved the desired tension, retighten the bar nuts.
- Once you’ve adjusted the chain’s tension, check it regularly to ensure it stays tight over time (source).
You may also need to file the teeth if the chain is still squeaking after you’ve adjusted the tension. Use a chainsaw file to remove any burrs or sharp edges from the teeth. This will help the chain move more smoothly and reduce the likelihood of it becoming stuck or producing a noise.
You can watch this helpful YouTube video that explains how to adjust the tension of your chainsaw chain:
3. Sharpening the Chain
If your chainsaw is still squeaking after you’ve adjusted the tension and filed the teeth, you may need to sharpen the chain. Most chainsaw sharpeners come with instructions on how to use them.
You can also find find helpful guides online, such as this YouTube video:
Follow these steps to sharpen the chain:
- Start by setting the sharpening tool onto the saw.
- Next, use the guide to position the sharpener at the correct angle.
- Run the sharpener along the length of the chain.
- Repeat this process until the entire chain is sharpened.
You may need to adjust the tension of the chain after sharpening it. Use the same process as before to loosen or tighten the chain as needed.
4. Cleaning the Guide Bar
If the guide bar on your chainsaw is dirty or damaged, it can cause the chain to squeak. To clean the guide bar, remove it from the saw and use a brush or cloth to remove any debris. You can also use a guide bar oil to lubricate the bar and help reduce friction (source).
If the guide bar is damaged, you may need to replace it. You can buy replacement guide bars online or at a hardware store. Be sure to choose a guide bar compatible with your saw before purchasing.
5. Check the Drive Sprocket
If your chainsaw is making a squeaking or grinding noise when in use, it may be due to damage to the bearings in the drive sprocket.
The drive sprocket is responsible for allowing the chain to move smoothly and efficiently, so any damage to this part of the saw can cause problems with its performance (source).
To check the drive sprocket, follow these steps:
- Remove the chain and guide bar from your saw to inspect your drive sprocket.
- Examine the sprocket teeth and bearings for visible damage, like worn or chipped surfaces (source). You can also run your fingers along the surface of the drive sprocket to feel for rough patches or other signs of damage.
- If you find any damage to your drive sprocket, address it immediately to stop further problems with your chainsaw.
Troubleshooting a Squeaky Chainsaw
Suppose you are experiencing a squeaky chainsaw and have followed all of the recommended troubleshooting steps. In that case, there are other things you can try. One method is to check the air filter to ensure it is clean and clear (source).
If necessary, use a brush or replace the filter with a new one to ensure that your chainsaw gets proper airflow and functions as intended. Another possible solution is to empty the fuel reservoir and fill the chain oil reservoir, as this can help ensure that the moving parts of the chainsaw are adequately lubricated.
By taking these steps, you can significantly reduce or even eliminate any unwanted noise from your chainsaw, allowing you to safely and effectively maintain your equipment.
Tips To Prevent a Squeaky Chainsaw
There are a few things you can do to prevent your chainsaw from becoming squeaky in the first place.
- First, regularly clean and lubricate your saw according to the manufacturer’s instructions. This will help keep all the moving parts in good condition and reduce the likelihood of them becoming damaged or worn.
- Another good tip is to avoid using your chainsaw in dusty or dirty conditions, as this can cause debris build-up that can lead to a squeaky chainsaw. If you must use your chainsaw in these conditions, clean it thoroughly afterward to prevent any long-term damage.
Bottom Line
If your chainsaw is squeaking, there are a few things you can do to fix the problem. First, check the chain to see if it is damaged or needs to be replaced. If the chain is in good condition, you can try cleaning the guide bar or replacing the drive sprocket.
You can also try troubleshooting the problem by checking the air filter or emptying and refilling the chain oil reservoir. If you follow these steps, you should be able to fix a squeaky chainsaw and get it running smoothly again.