The pitch on a chainsaw chain is the distance between three consecutive rivets divided by two. Chain pitch determines chain size and compatibility with the guide bar and sprocket. Common chainsaw chain pitches include 1/4 inch, .325 inch, 3/8 inch, and .404 inch. What is Chainsaw Chain Pitch? Chain pitch serves as the fundamental sizing…
A new Stihl chainsaw usually does not start because of incorrect starting procedure, stale fuel, a flooded engine, or an engaged chain brake. Cold engines require choke activation, fresh 50:1 fuel mix, and proper priming. Improper setup during first use is the most common cause. Understanding the Basics of Chainsaw Starting To understand why your…
Start a Stihl MS250 chainsaw by engaging the chain brake and setting the master control lever to full choke. Pull the starter rope until the engine burps, move the lever to half-choke, pull again until it starts, then squeeze the throttle to return the saw to the run position. Set Up a Safe and Ready…
A chainsaw cuts crooked due to an unevenly sharpened chain where teeth on one side are longer or filed at a different angle. Other common causes include uneven bar rail wear, improper chain tension, a bent guide bar, dull cutters, or uneven depth gauge filing from poor maintenance. Common Signs Your Chainsaw Is Cutting Crooked…
Use a chainsaw file guide by matching the file size and guide angle, typically 30°, to your chain. Align the guide with the cutter angle and direction arrow, file forward with even strokes, lift on the return, sharpen all teeth on one side, then repeat on the other side and check rakers. Understanding the Chainsaw…
Portland chainsaws are made for Harbor Freight Tools by various overseas manufacturers. Harbor Freight owns the Portland brand and uses it for budget-friendly gas and electric chainsaws. These chainsaws are not made by major brands like Stihl or Oregon, but are produced to meet Harbor Freight’s cost and retail specifications. The Origins of Portland Chainsaws…
Your chainsaw chain keeps coming off because the chain tension is too loose. Chain derailments also occur from worn bars, sprockets, or chains, incorrect chain size or type, poor tensioning technique, or new chains stretching during break-in. Damaged drive links or cutting brush that jams the chain also cause derailment. Common Signs Your Chainsaw Chain…
Clean a STIHL chainsaw by removing the bar and chain, then brushing or blowing out sawdust from the sprocket area, bar groove, cooling fins, and air filter. Remove burrs, clean with resin solvent if needed, lubricate the bar and chain, and reassemble. Clean lightly after each use and deeply each season. Get Ready: Safety and…
Crank a STIHL chainsaw by placing it on flat ground, engaging the chain brake, and setting the Master Control Lever to full choke. Pull the starter cord until the engine fires, move to half-choke, pull again to start, then tap the throttle to return to idle. Prepare Your Chainsaw and Work Area Proper preparation forms…