Chainsaw Bars

Maintaining Chainsaw Guide Bars

The guide bar on the chainsaw goes from the saw’s body and gives support to the chain. The bar usually has a bow bar, a sprocket nose or a solid nose. It is essential to maintain the bar in order get the most out of it. It is fairly easy to maintain. 

Instructions 

Gather the following: 

• Owner’s  manual   
• Replacement bar   
• Lubrication   
• Putty knife  
• Wire   
• Wrench   
• Screwdriver  

1.      While the saw is running, push the oil squeeze bulb on it to oil both the guide bar and chain. 

2.      Take the guide bar off to clean it and be sure to go by the directions for your model. Usually, the side sprocket case is removed and the guide nuts are unscrewed. 

3.      Remove debris and sawdust from the bar using a putty knife or a wire. Clean from the nose moving towards the base. The sprocket nose has to turn freely. 

4.      The chain and bar’s oil slots should be cleaned after every use to ensure good oil flow. 

5.      Inspect the guide bar’s side for bur’s. Keep the sides square by filing the bar. 

6.       Look for bends, cracks, and uneven wear on your rails. If you find any of those defects, the bar should be replaced. Find the product code in your manual and order a replacement or one can be bought in a store that carries chainsaw parts. 

7.      Make sure that your chain tension is adequate. You usually have to loosen the bar nuts and set an adjustment screw to make the lowest straps and cutters come into contact with the bottom of your bar. Your manual will give the procedure and correct sizes of screwdriver and wrench. 

Tips & Warnings 

• The tie straps have to meet the guide bar rails. If they don’t touch, replace the straps.   
• If your rails are uneven. the chain will cut at the wrong angle. A chain saw dealer or saw specialist can grind the rails to even them.  
• If the guide bar and tip have a blue coloration, the lubrication may be poor, the chain may be too tight, or the wrong cutting method is being used. The metal may turn blue due to excessive heat.  
• Do not transport your loose chain in the bed of a pickup truck. It may get tossed around and cause bending of the guide bar. You could use a chain guard, a case, or the saw can be secured.   
• Do not ever work on or attempt to clean your saw while you have it running.