Daily checks (before each use)
A chainsaw is a dangerous tool. Daily checks are not optional: they determine your safety and the machine's longevity.
1. General machine condition
- Housing and handles: check for cracks and abnormal play. Anti-vibration handles must be firm.
- Front hand guard (chain brake): manually activate. The brake must stop the chain instantly.
- Exhaust: verify the muffler is in place and not perforated.
2. Chain
- Tension: pull a few millimeters below the bar without drive links fully disengaging.
- Sharpness: cutters should catch the skin through a glove. If they slide, sharpen.
- Lubrication: run at idle over cardboard and check for oil splashes.
Chain sharpening
File angle: typically 30 degrees. Use the correct diameter round file for your chain pitch. Sharpen after every fuel tank in normal conditions.
The 2-stroke mix
Standard ratio: 1:50 (20 ml oil per 1 liter gasoline). Use quality 2-stroke oil. Mix keeps maximum 30 days.
Air filter
Clean every 10 hours of normal use. A clogged filter causes poor running, power loss, and excessive smoke.
Spark plug
Check electrode color: light brown = good. Black = too rich. White = too lean. Typical gap: 0.5 mm. Torque: 10-15 Nm.
Winter storage
- Empty fuel tank and run engine dry
- Oil the cylinder through the spark plug hole
- Clean air filter
- Remove and oil chain and bar
- Store in a dry place