Poulan Saw Chain Maintenance Tips

The most important part of your Poulan chainsaw is the chain. Proper maintenance and replacement of your Poulan saw chain will not only help keep the saw running and in good shape, but will also keep you safer while using the most dangerous power tool there is. You should always make sure your chain is properly sharpened, clean, has the right tension, and stays oiled during use.

Sharpening a Poulan saw chain can be very easy if you know what you are doing. When sharpening the chain be sure that you sharpen both sides of the cutting blade equally. Always check the chain for broken or damaged links prior to use and during every cleaning as these little defects can cause kickbacks, which can be dangerous to you and those around you.

Cleaning your Poulan saw chain can be an easy task. After making sure to disconnect the saw from any power source and remove the possibility of it being turned on accidentally, loosen the chain until it comes off the guide bar easily. After removing the chain from the saw completely, soak it in a household cleaner mixed with water while you gently scrub each piece or section with a soft brush.

When you're done it should look brand new and be free of dirt and grime. Dry completely with a rag, making sure there is absolutely no water left to prevent rust, and lubricate.

A Poulan saw chain with the incorrect amount of tension can be dangerous and will not cut very efficiently. Your chain should be tight enough that it fits snugly against the bar but loose enough to be easily spun with your gloved hand. Tightening the chain too much can also lead to premature wear of the bar and chain, requiring replacement more often.

A loose chain is even more dangerous as this can cause the saw to bind in the wood or the chain can fall off the bar. Chains stretch after use, especially if they are new. Check often to make sure your chain is still tightened properly.

Most chain saw chains today are self oiling. This means that there is a reservoir in the bar that lets out enough oil to keep the chain properly lubricated. This can be important for safety reasons as well as maintenance reasons and the quality of the cut. A well oiled chain builds less heat and friction between the bar and the chain, allowing your saw blade to spin and the cutters to cut even at the high speeds a chain saw runs.

Proper maintenance of your Poulan saw chain is the most important part of operating the saw. Not only will these tips give your chain saw and chain a longer, more efficient life, but they will also help you to stay safe even when operating this dangerous piece of machinery.

About the Author

Go to http://www.poulansawchain.com for more chain saw related information. There you'll find tips, ideas and cutting procedures to help you get the job done correctly and safely.