Tips from the pros on using a chainsaw

A chainsaw is a professional tool for cutting wood. The use of sharp cutting elements and a liquid-fuel engine can lead to serious injuries and consequences. Errors when using a chainsaw are primarily made by beginners. Proper use of the tool is essential for safe operation and the health of the worker and those around them.

Getting ready for work

A chainsaw is a familiar and standard tool, powered by a closed chain. The chain is driven by a two-stroke internal combustion engine. This engine runs on a mixture of gasoline and oil. To fuel the saw, prepare the fuel in advance. The components are gasoline of at least A92 grade (preferably at least A95 grade for imported engines), and special chainsaw oil. The mixture is diluted 1:50. After thoroughly mixing the mixture in a clean container, pour the fuel into the tank.

Beginners should carefully examine the filler neck markings. Chainsaws have two filler necks: one for fuel, and the other for oil, which lubricates the chain during operation. On some models, they are located next to each other and can be distinguished by distinctive symbols next to the opening. The fuel filler neck is marked with a gas pump symbol, and the oil filler neck is marked with a teardrop-shaped symbol. Refueling should only be done on a level, hard surface.

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Lubricating the chain and bar is essential for high-quality cutting and long-lasting tool life. Manufacturers recommend using only genuine, proprietary oils. However, you can also use standard oils suitable for car engines with a viscosity of W30-W40. The oil level mark is located next to the filler neck. During operation, periodically check the oil level to ensure timely top-up.

Before first use and every time thereafter (approximately once a month), lubricate the idler pulley bearing. It is located at the end of the bar and supports the chain guide. The guide has a special hole for lubrication; add a few drops of oil. A standard medical syringe can be used. The same chain oil is used as a lubricant.

Starting the saw

After adding fuel and chain oil, you can start the saw. It's a good idea to read the operating manual before starting the saw. When starting the saw for the first time, and again before starting it again, check the chain tension. To do this, pull the middle links. They should be 5-7 mm away from the bar. If this distance is greater, tighten the chain with the tensioner; if it is less, loosen it. Pull the cutting blade along the bar to check for smooth operation and no binding. Inspect the position of the chain brake. It is a plastic panel next to the front handle where you hold the saw (it is necessary to secure the chain when starting or warming up the engine). The brake should be engaged – pulled forward.

To start the saw, place it on a flat surface. Hold the front handle with your left hand. Place your right foot on the rear handle and turn on the ignition. Move the throttle to the closed position and pull the starter handle sharply several times. After the first "flash," open the throttle and pull the starter handle again until the engine starts.

Now you can disengage the chain brake, making sure there are no foreign objects under the cutting blade that could be pulled along. Press the accelerator several times to warm up the engine. Check the chain lubrication.

To do this, hold the tool against a light-colored surface (paper or board). Oil stains should appear on the surface, indicating sufficient lubricant supply. With the throttle closed, only start a cold engine. A warm engine does not require this procedure.

Beginner mistakes

A chainsaw is a highly dangerous tool. The slightest inaccuracy can result in serious injury or even death. Common mistakes include:

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1. Starting a chainsaw while it's suspended. Starting the engine in this position requires at least experience and strength. This is quite dangerous: a cold engine may not start on the first try, and the starter may jam.
2. The saw blade is raked with the end of the bar. In this position, the slightest movement will cause the saw to slip. This method of working should be avoided.
3. Moving with the saw running. If you need to take a few steps to the side, there's no point in stopping the saw and then restarting it. However, if you need to walk several dozen meters, it's best to turn off the saw.
4. Cutting timber with nails. When working with old logs and boards, it's easy to miss fasteners that could cause the saw blade to break if touched.
5. Chain tensioning without following the manufacturer's recommendations. An overly tight chain increases the load on the engine and bar. A loose chain can come off. To check the chain tension, pull the chain along the bar. The chain should move freely by hand, but not wobble.

It's important to understand that mistakes are made not only by beginners but also by experienced builders. Beginner saw users make mistakes due to ignorance or lack of practice. Experienced workers, on the other hand, make the same mistakes because they consider themselves professionals, but sometimes this is a misleading misconception. For safe work, it's important to follow safety precautions and the manufacturer's recommendations.

Safety rules and recommendations

The cutting edges of a saw blade can cause irreparable harm to a person's health. A few simple tips will help you work with a saw safely:

• read the manufacturer's instructions before use;
• use protective shoes, clothing and glasses;
• hold the chainsaw with both hands;
• saw while standing, slightly to the side of the cut;
• Always transport the chainsaw in the appropriate sheath;
• do not saw with arms outstretched or above shoulder height;
• Do not use a chainsaw on a tree or ladder;
• Do not allow the saw chain to come into contact with nail debris, wire or concrete.

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Chainsaw maintenance and repair should be performed by qualified personnel. Improper maintenance can damage the saw and pose a danger to the user. To extend the life of the bar and chain, maintain proper blade tension and use high-quality lubricant. Refuel the saw before starting the engine.

Operating a chainsaw without injury is easy. By following the manufacturer's recommendations and the advice of professionals, you can protect yourself and others.