How To Tighten A Chainsaw Chain - Popular Mechanics

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Dennis van Zuijlekom - Flickr CC

After a few hours of use, a chainsaw's chain can loosen and begin to sag away from the bar. This can lead to the chain jumping off the bar and possibly injuring the user. You must check the chain tension every time you use the chainsaw and make adjustments when necessary.

The chain should have a slight give when you pull it, but the drive links below the sharp edges should remain in contact with the bar (the solid metal oval piece that the chain wraps around). There is a tension screw located near the base of the bar on the chainsaw. To tighten the chain, turn it clockwise, and to loosen turn it counterclockwise. Don't over-tighten the chain as this could cause it to break.

The video below from Echo demonstrates the proper way to adjust a chain tension.

View full post on YouTube

Many new cordless chainsaws have a chain adjusting dial instead of a screw, which allows you to adjust the tension by hand.

Timothy DahlDIY Editor

Timothy is a lifelong DIY enthusiast who is fixated on smart home tech, beautiful tools, and wrenching on his FJ62 Land Cruiser. He’s the DIY editor at Popular Mechanics and also the founder of the home improvement site, Charles & Hudson, the Webby-nominated family site, Built by Kids, and Tool Crave. When not working, you’ll find him on his board or bike enjoying the LA weather with his family and friends. Follow him on Instagram and Twitter.

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