CORRECT WAY To Adjust The Chain Tension On Your Chainsaw

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The correct way to adjust the chain tension on your chainsaw is fairly critical. If its too loose or too tight it can cause damage to the saw or yourself! This video is for ALL chainsaw makes and models, including Stihl, Husqvarva, Echo, Etc....
In this video Steve is going to show you the correct way to adjust the tension of your chainsaw chain. He will show you where to find your adjustments screws, how to move the bar so it is the correct position when tightening the screws and where that chain should be holding itself to the bar when it gets tightened.
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👉Repair A Chainsaw That Cuts Crooked ➜ • How To Repair A Chains...
👉Fix A ChainSaw If It Won't Oil The Bar And Chain ➜ • How To Fix A ChainSaw ...
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#stevessmallenginesaloon #smallenginerepair #smallengine #troubleshooting #howto #doityourself #chainsaw #stihl #husqvarna #echo #stihlchainsaw #stihlchainsaw #husqvarnachainsaw #echochainsaw #chaintension

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Опубликовано:

21 июл 2017

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Комментарии : 4 тыс.

@StevesSmallEngineSaloon 5 лет назад

✅Need The proper tool? Check out this chainsaw wrench ➜ amzn.to/2iMUIIf For more videos like this, check out: 👉Top 5 Reasons A Chainsaw Won't Start ➜ ru-vid.com/video/%D0%B2%D0%B8%D0%B4%D0%B5%D0%BE-5Qit2CZFw6M.html 👉Correct Way To Sharpen A Chainsaw ➜ ru-vid.com/video/%D0%B2%D0%B8%D0%B4%D0%B5%D0%BE--GIxowey6IQ.html 👉Repair A Chainsaw That Cuts Crooked ➜ ru-vid.com/video/%D0%B2%D0%B8%D0%B4%D0%B5%D0%BE-AgCZxee2NPA.html 👉Fix A ChainSaw If It Won't Oil The Bar And Chain ➜ ru-vid.com/video/%D0%B2%D0%B8%D0%B4%D0%B5%D0%BE-6zscOSrFQjA.html You can connect with Steve here too: ✅Visit Steve’s WEBSITE ➜ www.stevessmallenginesaloon.com/ ✅Visit Steve’s PARTS & TOOL STORE ➜ www.amazon.com/shop/stevessmallenginesaloon ✅Follow Steve on FACEBOOK ➜ facebook.com/stevessmallenginesaloon ✅Follow Steve on INSTAGRAM ➜ instagram.com/stevessmallenginesaloon/ ✅Follow Steve on TWITTER ➜ twitter.com/SteveSaloon ✋Heads up guys, I did say a quick thing at about 1:55 that is not what I meant! The chain actually is not spinning at 12,000 RPM just because the engine is. But my point is still valid....👍

@chrispollak5688 5 лет назад

Carburator already!

@reclaimthelaw 5 лет назад

we knew what you meant ! ;)

@gludvig 5 лет назад

We knew what you meant. Great video. Thx.

@aliray1165 5 лет назад

12000 revs per minute implies engine speed I think. Anyway we know you basically meant frickin fast.

@nmmxiii9389 5 лет назад

What is the chains rpm at say 12000

@goarmysinknavy 11 дней назад

Hey man, I am not sure if you will see this since the video is nearly 6 years old now. However, I recently purchased a STHIL Chainsaw myself. This video helped me, as a first time young homeowner. I appreciate the fact there is no bullshit into, no "before we get into this, here's a thanks to my sponsors", or any other crap. Just straightforward and to the point. When I have a little extra money, I will be purchasing some stickers, coffee cup, and other items from your store as a thank you.

@StevesSmallEngineSaloon 11 дней назад

Thank You...and You're Welcome...

@joshhudman7751 2 дня назад

Helped me huge as well. I couldn’t figure out why the new chain was not cutting well before I learned you need to pull the tip of the bar up when adjusting. Good to go now. Thank you

@wazowski6709 Год назад

No shitty music, brand new saw or pointless waffle. Here is a guy that knows what he is talking about, concise & informative. Thank you sir, I think I shall sub. 👍

@StevesSmallEngineSaloon Год назад

WOW! Thank You...

@stevenbrown5210 5 месяцев назад

Get the gullet!

@jeffgood1580 3 месяца назад

Agreed!

@quillyaid 2 месяца назад

Hey Steve, is it normal to have the tension screw almost maxed out in, to have the correct tension?@@StevesSmallEngineSaloon

@bonitabromeliads Месяц назад

he waffles for 6 mins

@frankcostanzo8391 2 года назад

I'm a firefighter on a truck company in a major US city and we use Stihl saws for cutting ventilation holes in all types of roofs. Your video was fantastic. I'll definitely be using these tips and advice going forward. As someone who expects his saw to save lives, having your equipment set up properly can be a matter of life and death. Kudos!

@StevesSmallEngineSaloon 2 года назад

Right on Frank! Thank You...

@Slippindisc 2 года назад

If you’re going through shingles do you tear some shingles off first? Seems like your chain would dull immediately going through them

@alexdegrenier1910 Год назад

This is rad, thank you for your service

@akaLuptonPittman Год назад

@@Slippindisc Maybe on a pretty intact roof with little time to play/train/whatever. But if it’s gettin it and you’re going hard offensive to get ahead, occupants trapped… guys inside who’re gettin pressed down…that kind of fire, then it’s the least thing I cared about. I just wanted to safely get off the roof and provide the best environment I could for everyone inside workin in the dark.

@tylerc3576 Год назад

Carbide teeth?

@nathanrichardson8500 2 года назад

Nobody in my entire tiny career operating saws ever helped me out like that concerning chain tension. Huge thank you.

@StevesSmallEngineSaloon 2 года назад

You're Welcome...

@johnhitchcock5404 3 года назад

Finally, someone who knows how to make an informative video. Perfectly explained for the novice.

@StevesSmallEngineSaloon 3 года назад

Thank You...

@fransrichter7698 3 года назад

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@iqgun4532 3 года назад

@@fransrichter7698 b

@AntoniOrszykowski 2 года назад

And no shitty music in the background. Also like to say that your chainsaw seem a lot.

@michaelbruce2751 2 года назад

Yeah, it’s why I subbed the moment I found this channel. For once, somebody who doesn’t waste time with lots of unimportant information and also presents things clearly, and in a rational order. I learn more from these videos than I do from hours of others.

@OlJarhead 2 года назад

First guy I’ve seen who actually knows how to correctly set the chain tension. I’ve done it this way for 45 years.Great video!

@StevesSmallEngineSaloon 2 года назад

Right on Dave! Thank You...

@millomweb 2 года назад

@@StevesSmallEngineSaloon I'd say that's a tad tight ! I'd be looking for a tiny bit of slack - no more than 1mm (I don't know what that is in imperial even though I'm imperial ! 1/16" ??

@Staale69 2 года назад

@@millomweb It would be 1/25, as one inch is 25,4 mm.

@millomweb 2 года назад

@@Staale69 That's logical :)

@treeclimberman3337 2 года назад

Dave said what I was thinking . I was taught to hold the tip up thirty years ago.

@andrewbelbin Год назад

This was how I was taught to tension a chain when I purchased my first saw thirty five years ago. Thumbs up to you Steve.....

@StevesSmallEngineSaloon Год назад

Thank You...

@bobbyg4100 23 дня назад

Great, GREAT video. I’ve been wondering about the correct way to do that for 22 yrs.🤪. Finally someone taught us correctly . God Bless You 🙏🏼

@nacholibre1962 4 года назад

So, what you're saying is, "Hold your tip up when you tighten you nuts?" Makes perfect sense to me! Great vid. Thanks for posting!

@oneupmanship 4 года назад

Brilliant.

@faceious2006 4 года назад

Albert Head Nice. Would have added “while checking your oil” but well played sir

@rejmonwilson 4 года назад

🤔😂😂🤣🤣🤣👨🏾‍🔧🇯🇲🇨🇦🤙🏾👏🏾🙏🏿

@hotajax 4 года назад

Mostly I like holding the nuts up while you know who is playing with the tip.

@chasleask8533 3 года назад

Go to your room.

@googleboy7 10 месяцев назад

Thanks brother. I was a dealer and have been cutting wood for fifty years. I wouldn't sell a saw without training the customer. Here is what I taught: The bar and chain must be cold. Loosen the bar nuts. Hold the tip of the bar up while adjusting the tensioning screw. Increase the chain tension until the chain just kisses the bottom of the bar. Tighten the bar nuts. Manually pull the chain around making sure the chain continues to maintain contact with the bottom of the bar. Repeat the process if necessary. Shalom/gw

@garycoulombe574 2 года назад

It is important to remember that the chain will stretch a bit as it heats up with use. So check it again once you have cut some wood. Like wise ,if the chain is warm and adjusted accordingly it will shrink when it cools down especially when stored during winter months. I like to detention the chain for storage to decrease the stress on the equipment.

@apadgett01 Год назад

I agree. I always slightly overtighten mine when using a brand new chain for this reason.

@paulmontavon5055 Год назад

Especially if it’s a brand new chain.

@ED-es2qv Год назад

If you tighten it while it’s hot, you need to loosen it before it cools again because you can damage the bearings etc. This is stated in the manual. If I need to adjust mine hot, I don’t suck it all the way up, I leave 1/8th in. Often the chain sagging is time to clean out the bar and cover, and likely sharpen it too. If it smokes, I clean it and sharpen it. There’s a lot of heat involved when the bar cover is plugged up and there’s wood in the bar channel.

@frednoble1833 Год назад

That is very smart. Reducing. Tightness. In WINTER.

@maddawgnoll Год назад

I've had my chains also get tighter while bucking logs. I still don't understand that, but it happens. I check my chain constantly because I've thrown chains, and fried bars. Always take the tension off when you're done cutting.

@baldbollocks 2 года назад

Great tip thanks. I'm a British immigrant to Canada and been a Canadian citizen for over 40 years. Now that I have a chain saw I finally feel like a real Canadian!! Thanks ! 🙏

@StevesSmallEngineSaloon 2 года назад

Right on

@dubiousdistinction6500 Месяц назад

all u really need is a hockey stick..lol

@kyabrammotors2125 5 лет назад

Hi from Australia Steve, Have been selling chainsaws for 24 years. A tip I learned early on was to lift the handle so the nose touched the bench top while tensioning the chain and tightening the bar nuts. Saves needing three hands and you spill less beer. (Carlton Draught here buddy) Thanks for your great videos, Regards, Mark.

@StevesSmallEngineSaloon 5 лет назад

Right on Mark...

@BattlesBlades 4 года назад

maybe im mising something, its the same two hands either way. just a different end of the saw. lol

@noneyabus1 4 года назад

Maybe I'm just weird but I just turn my saw upside down, loosen the bolts, adjust the tension and then tighten it back up. After that, flip the saw back upright and go cut wood. If needed, turn it on its side to add gas and oil. Another weird thing I do. I fill the oil to the top, as much as I can get in there without over flowing it. Then I leave a little space with the gas, half to maybe 3/4". That way I will run out of gas first even if the oil is flowing faster than it should be for some reason. I'd much rather run out of gas than oil anyway. I'm still learning about saws, even tho I've ran one when I was much younger, but I've learned some weird ways over the years. ;-) I have a Stihl 028 av wood boss currently with a 20" bar. I am trying to find a good long lasting bar and chain tho. I cut oak and hickory which is tough on chains.

@terryslade4760 4 года назад

Kyabram Motors spilling less beer is always a good enough reason for me!!!

@dufus2273 4 года назад

I use a scrap of wood sometimes if it's handy

@margieoakes3092 4 года назад

Finally, someone who can make a point clearly !

@StevesSmallEngineSaloon 4 года назад

Thank You...

@stevemorris4220 3 года назад

The guy is pretty gifted. Easy to understand.

@davidstepeck2644 Год назад

I’ve been tensioning my chain like this for about 5 years now; I think I learned it from Steve. I watched it tonight just to have a beer with him, as this is one of the rare videos he doesn’t drink his beer!

@timothymartin2137 3 месяца назад

Dad was smart and taught me a ton BUT HE MISSED the trick about holding the bar up...makes sense,,,well presented...THANK YOU!!! (He, like me, would have held the bar in the middle forgetting it WOULD ride to the top!!)

@rogueart7706 3 года назад

I like to tighten the chain where it just starts to smoke the bar, then throw the saw in the shed and go fishing.

@kenbrown2808 3 года назад

if it performs how you want it to, you're doing it right.

@rogueart7706 3 года назад

@@kenbrown2808 it performs great when the fish are bitin.

@thebeardofgaming81 3 года назад

lmao

@moeman17able 3 года назад

Well that's smart in a way.

@makattak3550 2 года назад

I adjust the bar after every 20 be-headings.

@bryanreilly9111 Год назад

Thanks Steve! Lost my dad 5 years ago and he was always there to help and teach. He never taught me about chainsaws ( we never needed one) Now I do and your videos help. Almost like having my dad here with me. Thanks!

@StevesSmallEngineSaloon Год назад

Glad to help

@dg-hughes Год назад

Same Bryan my Dad who passed in 2021 built the family home 50 years ago and did pretty much anything a real blue collar guy. Started out on the docks at age 14, then a painter, janitor, then Coast Guard in 40C engine room or on barges in -20C hauling in buoys. A chainsaw wasn't something we owned. Good to get some tips and even better the why of why it's done from Steve.

@jesse1136 2 года назад

I appreciate people who can go in depth technically but keep their teaching engaging and interesting. From a self-described expert in the tree industry, I still watch or listen all the way through. You never know when someone is going to be able to challenge your mastery. The only time it might be acceptable to stop learning is after death, but I can't guarantee that either.

@StevesSmallEngineSaloon 2 года назад

Right on Jesse! Thank You...

@loridave1962 Год назад

Another good talk. All of yours are. When a marginally skilled person (me) never has any coworkers or cohorts, doing the same tasks, to talk to, it’s a little or a lot dangerous. No on-going learning takes place other than one’s own accidents or near misses. So this lone eagle develops bad habits or just plain underperforms. I’ve seen this a number of times while coming in contact with firms who decide to have one person do a task that nobody else in the whole company does. That worker has nobody to say “oh man, I had a close call today don’t do what I did” or “hey, Bub, let me show you something”. I find some show hosts, such as you, fill this sort of gap where I’m an amateur. So, thx a bunch being here with me.

@londedargenteuil1661 5 лет назад

I'm a new homeowner. Just moved in from years of living in an apartment in the city. Needless to say we don't use many small engine tools. So I'm an enthusiastic learner with no complexes. And you are by far one of the clearest and most enjoyable teachers I've watched. Thanks a bunch.

@StevesSmallEngineSaloon 5 лет назад

Thank you for the awesome comment, my friend....

@Maverick8t88 2 года назад

25 year arborist here. He’s absolutely right about holding the tip up. I always tell people to adjust the chain until you can just pull the drivers, which are the part opposite the cutting teeth, out of the bar at the middle of the bar without having to pull real hard. They should snap back into place with no sag at the bottom. Remember, a little loose is better than too tight. Also, I always flip the bar over every time I change the chain to minimize warp, but make sure you don’t put your chain on backwards!

@StevesSmallEngineSaloon 2 года назад

Good point! Thank You...

@Maverick8t88 2 года назад

@@StevesSmallEngineSaloon Happy to help! Great video, thanks for making it! I get asked this question all the time and I’m always hearing homeowners with their chains making a loud whirring sound cuz they’ve got too much tension.

@MrAloha-sy8zf 3 месяца назад

This is the best advice I have found on youtube. Even with my short attention span, the directness and detail had me locked in. Wish you did a sharpening AND tensioning video in one video and we’d all be done searchin!!

@DrRockso0 Год назад

I’ve been quietly watching your videos for a few years now. I’m a small engine repair tech at a large home improvement chain. I have to train others, most with no experience, in how to run all sorts of small engine equipment. Your videos have been invaluable to help me know how to train the new young folks how to use these machines. Thanks so much

@StevesSmallEngineSaloon Год назад

Thank You...and You're Welcome...

@ThUnDaHuNtA_Australia 4 года назад

yer you're onto it, been doing that since i bin cutting firewood started around 1980, one tip....shove a block or piece of wood under the tip, or in the field rest the tip on a small branch on the ground so the chainsaw is resting on the back of the handle and the tip. this ensures the bar is pushed up hard and you can concentrate on tensioning the chain and tightening the nuts. i have my bar oil cranked up to the max, you can have the chain with some tension on it because in operation when a large amount of heat is generated the chain will lengthen and the xtra tension will back off very quickly to ideal, also never tension a hot bar and leave it cool down, when the chain shrinks it can over stress the crankshaft, try to always set your tension just before you start cutting. my sthil was an 042 for 25yrs, bought an ms 361 back round 07. having said all that your vids are good steve, practical knowledge with no bullshit. regards...

@VQ1whales 4 года назад

Great way... I cut 8 cords a yr in Montana

@nevada8462 2 года назад

Thanks for that tip. Makes sense from what Steve explained too. I’ve had 4 dudes on my chainsaws and not one of my machines are fully functional anymore.... except the Husqvarna now that I took it in to Sthil repair place and they had to replace bar, chain and secure the handle for me! They gave me a small tutorial as well. No more dudes on my equipment because of people like you and Steve and a lot of “but why?”, instead of sticking my head in the sand after my late husband’s fatal accident, I tcb myself.

@awaitingthetrumpetcall4529 2 года назад

@@nevada8462 _"I’ve had 4 dudes on my chainsaws and not one of my machines are fully functional anymore..."_ Reminds me of all the different 'professionals' that cleaned my boiler. All of them improperly adjusted the igniter electrode. I would always hear fuel spraying before it finally ignited then 'woomp!' I watched them a few times then read the owners manual and bought a vernier caliper and adjusted the electrode gap myself. Ignition was instant.

@davidbeckenbaugh9598 2 года назад

Was gonna say the same thing. Why hold it up when you have all this wood around you to do it for you and give you two free hands?

@mcmuskie2563 2 года назад

Agree

@happycamper6352 2 года назад

A couple additional comments: re-tighten after warmed up, as the warm chain will sag a bit after heating/expanding, especially if it's a new chain. Also, loosen and store loose if you're going to store it a bit long-term. Pull the chain back and forth (with chain brake off and be careful not to cut yourself). It should move freely and smoothly. If there's a pretty good amount of resistance, you're too tight. Finally, there are certain areas of the bar that are tell-tale signs of a too-tight or too-loose chain. See other videos on the subject and you'll learn about them. Overall, this video does a very good job though. Thanks, Steve.

@Arlatube 2 года назад

Also, if you do this, dont forget to remove tension after use because as the chain cools it will contract causing huge stress on it and all connected components.

@stephenball7048 7 месяцев назад

Thanks Steve. This helped me a bunch in understanding how to adjust the tension on my chain!

@christinebacon9606 11 месяцев назад

Thank you so much!!!! It's been a while since I've had mine out for action... so I'm so thankful for the best explanation I have heard on how to do this safely , effectively and properly... ❤❤

@StevesSmallEngineSaloon 11 месяцев назад

Glad it helped!

@armondedge4187 2 года назад

As a more or less happy homeowner for 45 years in 24 acres of woods, I had figured this out over a number of years and chainsaws. Wish I had this video in the back then days. Thanks for passing on the word in your usual excellent style.

@StevesSmallEngineSaloon 2 года назад

Thanks for sharing!

@Ratter5 2 года назад

A great must-do tip. My first job was at 15 yrs old in a saw shop. Your tip was one of the main things I leaned, only the method was different. Instead of holding the bar up, just turn the saw over and the bar sag will be in the up position without holding.

@morganroberts1111 6 лет назад

Thanks Steve! Just bought a chainsaw and found the instruction booklet to be useless so turned to you-tube for help and found your video. Short, sweet and to the point. Sub'd straight away.

@StevesSmallEngineSaloon 6 лет назад

You're Welcome...

@stevengentry8648 7 месяцев назад

Thanks never knew why got tighter when I tightened the chain,thanks Steve

@MF-le7fp Месяц назад

Great video, and advice. I watched this a couple years ago after purchasing a new saw, and since then this information has served me well. It’s kept me safe, and definitely helped in regard to the extending the service life of the bar, and the chain. In regard to servicing in the field, I started carrying an awl, (or a thin flathead screwdriver), along with the standard nut/flathead tool. After servicing now, I’ve found that placing the awl through that single hole in the forward part of the bar allows you to keep constant upward tension on the bar while tightening the nuts. This also eliminates having your glove contacting the chain (or the bar), in the front sprocket area, which can sometimes be quite hot. But this method also allows you to pull the chain around a few times while the bar is fully upward, in order to detect any tight spots in the chain that might otherwise throw off proper tensioning. Before using this method, I had many an instance of “properly” tensioning the chain without moving it at all, only to find it overly loose again once throwing the brake on, and checking it after the first few cuts. Hope this helps someone, and thanks again for the video. 👍

@stewartbruce2409 5 лет назад

Dear Steve, Your tutorials are so well done; everything from the photography, sound of your voice, and clear easy to understand instructions. You are truly a blessing to us students in you tube land. Please keep your health and vitality because we need and love you. Bruce the swimmer New Rochelle N.Y.

@StevesSmallEngineSaloon 5 лет назад

Thanks brother....

@nathilliv1002 3 года назад

I have been over tightening my bar for years. As always, Steve's advice makes perfect sense.

@josephbadulak9146 9 дней назад

Am new to this site. Yet, having studied 3 of Steve's SE Saloon videos, I must conclude Steve's guidance is ☆☆☆☆☆Excellent.

@StevesSmallEngineSaloon 9 дней назад

Wow, thank you!

@markjames9205 2 года назад

Awesome, sharpened my first chain today ( I’m 54) shows you’re never to old to learn something new. Thanks. Excellent teacher…

@StevesSmallEngineSaloon 2 года назад

Thank You...

@Hmbldzy99 2 года назад

Great video, thanks. I'm 58 and was laid off last year due to Covid. Been a "desk jockey" my whole life. Been looking for a suitable job the last 10 months and getting lots of scams and "you are overqualified." My friend is a landscaper and she's been getting newer, more wealthy clients in an adjacent town so I agreed to take on some of her smaller clients to make ends meet. Just bought my first chainsaw (Poulan 18") and watching maintenance and safety videos. I wanted to start cutting some oak logs today but decided to wait a day until I can get chaps and a helmet/guard/ear protection. I don't wanna cut my body up in a stupid oversight of basic chainsaw operation. I'm excited. I did a big weed whack/pruning job the other day and my body survived. I live in the mountains of Southern California and most houses are on steep hillsides. I was able to complete the job and it felt great. Aside from assessing the property I was free to think about whatever I wanted, music, comedy, whatever. It felt so good to be outdoors and not handcuffed to a desk thinking about programming and number crunching. A year from now I'm going to have enough clients to start contracting out help, then buy a better truck and trailer, then eventually manage my little landscaping business. You, kind sir, have played a big role in this dream and for that I thank you. PS Based on everything I've watched my new Poulan came to me basically perfectly set up. I fired her up no problem, messed with the kickback guard, and gave the chain a few revolutions. No issues.

@FreeFinca Год назад

How's business?

@bltefft 2 года назад

Another great video. My family owned and operated a tree service for 30+ years and maintained our saws ourselves. You described the process perfectly, even the need to lift the tip of the bar as you re-tightened the nuts holding the bar on.

@StevesSmallEngineSaloon 2 года назад

Right on

@SovereignTroll 2 года назад

In all the Trades and products the Manufacturers Recommendations are the rule. For the chain, the bar and this guy mentions this early. BRAVO EXCELLENT video!

@StevesSmallEngineSaloon 2 года назад

Thank You...

@Aengus42 Год назад

Perfect, thanks! I just dashed in from the garden here in Kent, UK for exactly these tips as I'm cleaning, sharpening & adjusting a pruning chainsaw. It's only little but it's a handy device. You reminded me to get my hard hat, face guard & gloves out too! Cheers mate!

@sk22ng 2 года назад

As a homeowner and builder who occasionally helps clearing some of the lots that I build on, this video is helpful to me. Not pulling up on the end of the bar while adjusting the chain explains all my problems of often ending up with too tight of a chain soon after I begin cutting.

@StevesSmallEngineSaloon 2 года назад

Right on

@millomweb 2 года назад

Why are you putting so much weight into cutting ? Just let the saw and gravity work together !

@michaeldougfir9807 5 лет назад

There are a lot of guys from Ork that make chainsaw videos. Many of them I want to ask WHY? This is the BEST explanation of chain tightening I have ever seen on the Web. Tip: a little piece if 2x4 can be used to hold that tip up, so you can use both hands to adjust chain tension and tighten the nuts. If you have a stump vice, that makes a good bi-pod for the tip of the bar... like on a rifle. Notice his terminology. It is all correct. (There is NO "blade" on a chainsaw, for example.) READ your saw manual. It's there to help you.

@StevesSmallEngineSaloon 5 лет назад

Right on...

@burtvhulberthyhbn7583 5 лет назад

Actually there is a "blade" if you're in the British isles.

@DiscoFang 5 лет назад

Burt Hulbert Who in the British Isles makes chainsaws?

@akbychoice 5 лет назад

Burt Hulbert and a boot is a trunk and a bonnet is a hood.

@burtvhulberthyhbn7583 5 лет назад

@@DiscoFang who in America makes chainsaws?

@Mikefirstfloors 2 года назад

For 30 years I remember my first chainsaw bought and a shipmate that got out of navy got a job at earls small engine in goose creek South Carolina, told me to hold the bar down when tightening. Along comes RU-vid and I say let me see what this guy has to say( have an ms390 ready to replace chain) learned a bit, thanks you’ve helped with my string trimmer as well!

@Redslayer86 Месяц назад

I wasn't interested in maiming myself so I was trying to find the right tension. And you're right, there's a different answer depending on who you ask lol. But lifting the bar while adjusting is key info I didn't see yet.

@patricknesbit2334 2 года назад

All awesome stuff 🙂! I was blessed by being taught all the tips and tricks from a father who used to make a living felling trees by hand. He fell some of the last of the old growth trees here in Washington state. He used big saws with massive bars. He taught me to keep the chain tight enough to stay on but not tight enough to cause binding. The chain should always move freely when pulled by hand. The sound your chain makes will always indicate whether or not your running it to tightly. I have learned from experience to watch and listen to my saw and chain. They can tell you many things if you know what to look for. I have as you say slapped myself on more than one occasion after a long day of tree thining or brush clearing and my chain has stretched and slacked off. On a side note always make sure you have your wrench securely on the nuts when tightening, I forget once and sliced the side of my hand open on the new chain I had just installed. My wrench slipped of at full down force. I like to make sure my nuts a nice and tight. I lost a few in the woods once when they backed off. This was a nice refresher and very important for the longevity of your saw. 😊 Thanks 👍.

@michaeld.coulombesr.583 4 года назад

Finally Steve, I as one, have just seen somebody (you) tighten up a chainsaw chain the correct way. Myself I just place a block of wood under the end of the bar that holds the bar up the right amount. Keep up the good work, and the right information. Also I've been a logger and worked in wood mills of one sort or another, my father told me to put that chainsaw on the ground when you go to start it!!! Period. Even the little ones. Even a dull chain can cut the HELL out of you quicker than you can blink your eyes. Especially the little ones. MICHAEL said that bye for now my friend.

@daviddawkins1 2 года назад

Thanks for the info. Really well explained. Much appreciated!

@StevesSmallEngineSaloon 2 года назад

Very welcome!

@joharryman8332 2 года назад

First person I know who knows how to adjust a chainsaw chain.

@StevesSmallEngineSaloon 2 года назад

Right on Jo!

@merwynfleborg4365 3 года назад

Good job explaining chain tightening! Thanks Steve. A review of fundamentals is never a waste of time! Strange how one can develop bad habits from thin air! Couple of minor points a) Clean out behind the cover plate to free up the sprocket and chain before adjusting chain. All that rotten wood fiber and oil that inevitably gets packed in there! Otherwise your chain adjustments will not be accurate. But we all keep our saws clean anyway, right? b) After adjusting and before locking down the nuts, roll the chain with gloved hand a full rotation and recheck the tension. While holding up the tip with hand of course. And again after tightening the nuts c) New factory chains can change after first hour or so of work. Usually getting longer and looser. I've thrown chains because I failed to check a factory new chain...

@bjjbrawler1 Год назад

Bought a few "chain catchers" that got sheared in half due to this :^(

@dansumners8638 2 года назад

Always feels good to have a seasoned vet like yourself make sense of what I've been doing for the past couple years. Love your videos man, keep on keepin on!

@StevesSmallEngineSaloon 2 года назад

Right on Danny! Thank You...

@joes6883 Год назад

Great information. I look to you more often than not. Reason, I have Stihl power equipment. Chainsaw, Weed Trimmer and Blower/Vac. I want to keep them for a long time. Appreciate this information Steve. Joe from Indiana.

@jimatwood8870 Месяц назад

Thanks. Great video showing why and how to get this equipment adjusted properly. Clear. Understandable. I don't have much experience using chainsaws. This is big help.

@StevesSmallEngineSaloon Месяц назад

You are welcome!

@luvkountry 2 года назад

Great Video. Been adjusting my chain this way for many years. The other factor to consider is, that as the chain heats up it will become looser. I had the chain derail when I was a rookie and was lucky it only slapped me on the hand and wrist good. The little aluminum angle shaped safety damper is still on my saw although it is bent from that rookie mistake many years ago. It likely saved my hand and wrist from serious injury. That slap on the wrist always reminds me to monitor my chain tension often..

@zandralopez9238 4 года назад

This guy is the MAN! It’s like explaining to the brain dead, so I can understand lol

@StevesSmallEngineSaloon 4 года назад

Thank You...

@ParmerleeTube 3 года назад

@Steve's Small Engine Saloon Yeah, same here. I've ruined chains, bars and even one saw altogether by doing this wrong. It is all so straightforward as Steve explains it. The saw I ruined was from wearing out the sprocket by having it too tight. And once I wore out the sprocket, I could never tension the chain consistently because the chain would sometimes climb up the sprocket to be like its normal position, and at other times the chain would slip down into the deeper grooves I had ground into the sprocket. I could have replaced the sprocket, but it was a 40-year old saw and the new part cost more than the saw was worth. The only thing I would add to Steve's excellent discussion is that at all times, the chain should easily move on the bar. That is to say, after tensioning it and making a cut or two, turn the engine off and with a GLOVED hand, move the chain back and forth. It should move very easily, not binding at all. It is not a bad idea to do that quick check right before you start the saw EVERY time. Sometimes you will have some wood chips in the groove and by manually moving the chain both directions, you may clean out the groove a little. AND you will catch an over-tensioning situation before you damage your saw or yourself. It literally takes only 3 extra seconds each time.

@g18886 2 года назад

I noticed the chain tightening after adjustment. I assumed it was due to the bar heating up and expanding. Holding the tip of the bar up while adjusting tension is important. Good information.

@janvanholten7592 2 года назад

Finally, .......... someone who knows what he is talking about. Greetings from Europe.

@StevesSmallEngineSaloon 2 года назад

Thank You...

@donaldcampbell9987 Год назад

The Chainsaw adjustment video is brilliantly clear. Well done Steve

@StevesSmallEngineSaloon Год назад

Thank You...

@markgoostree6334 2 года назад

One thing I learned ... the hard way... watch the wear on your drive sprocket. If you start to see a groove wearing into the sprocket... get it changed. You'll think the chain is properly adjusted but the chain will slip back into those grooves, and it's automatically too loose again. Great instruction on this critical bit of chainsaw maintenance.

@bitcoinsmash1650 2 года назад

Good tip, something I can watch out for tomorrow

@Jcassel1000 3 года назад

Thanks again Steve, So many folks have given me different instructions and I did it my way anyway. Your example is simple and makes sense to me.

@StevesSmallEngineSaloon 3 года назад

Excellent!

@mattspurrell6572 6 месяцев назад

Thanks man. 40 years old, about time I learn how to use my chainsaw

@adublbeatz8656 7 месяцев назад

6 years later and this video is still serving a great purpose....Thank you.....

@StevesSmallEngineSaloon 7 месяцев назад

Glad it was helpful!

@chrisknapp15 Год назад

This is exactly the video I needed and now I know what I was doing wrong. You're the man

@StevesSmallEngineSaloon Год назад

Thank You...

@HQHQHQHQHQHQHQHQHQHQHQHQHQHQHQ 2 года назад

Now this is completely right! It will be helpful for starters! Some other youtubers don't know a thing about that and pretend to be a pro...

@StevesSmallEngineSaloon 2 года назад

Thank You...

@user-kk6ml4lg6e 11 месяцев назад

I appreciate you explaining the physics of the forces on the bar!

@StevesSmallEngineSaloon 11 месяцев назад

Thank You...

@googleboy7 2 года назад

Used to be a Husqvarna dealer. I've used that method for 50 years. Shalom/gw

@chrisdavison6678 2 года назад

My wife has four chainsaws and each manual gives different spec's for the 'correct' tension. It is so nice to see someone do a perfectly understandable video on how to do it properly. Thanks so much for this. It may save me a lot of repair work.

@StevesSmallEngineSaloon 2 года назад

Glad to help

@eternallearner4753 6 лет назад

Sir, you are a natural educator. Instant subscribe - with thanks.

@StevesSmallEngineSaloon 6 лет назад

You're Welcome...and Thank You...

@Milk192 2 года назад

I wish this information came in the saw's instruction manual. Thank you so much for taking your time to pass this on.

@StevesSmallEngineSaloon 2 года назад

Glad it was helpful!

@robertrent5218 Год назад

The best chain tension explanation and adjustment instructions ever. Kudos and subscribed.

@StevesSmallEngineSaloon Год назад

WOW! Thank You...

@YaxisX 2 года назад

Steve, for the sheer volume and great variety of explanations and techical details offered on video, you may be the very best of all instructors regarding Small Engine Repair and Equipment Maintenance. I like all of the instructors, but you have a particular knack for making complex things very simple for us ordinary "joes" and that is a unique gift.

@StevesSmallEngineSaloon 2 года назад

WOW! Thank You...

@YaxisX 2 года назад

@@StevesSmallEngineSaloon A friend to a friend.

@boatymcboatface2994 2 года назад

Definitely explains it to the average guy.... Who is also probably drinking a Lucky Lager while he works on his saw in the shed lol

@duranbailiff5337 2 года назад

I have done this many times, but it is nice to get the extra tips from someone that knows the process better. Great video- as always!

@StevesSmallEngineSaloon 2 года назад

Thanks for watching!

@daveb7999 Год назад

Thanks for 'splainin' Steve! Makes perfect sense that even I can follow.

@michaelphelps5064 Год назад

I'm a 3rd generation chain saw user. This is good basic info.

@StevesSmallEngineSaloon Год назад

Thank You...

@vladzo123 6 лет назад

This is the best instruction I've found. When you explain reasons why you do this or that, it make sense and it is easy to remember. I just cannot remember and follow advises that do not make sense. Well done

@StevesSmallEngineSaloon 6 лет назад

Thanks buddy

@tmacdonald4006 3 года назад

Thanks for all these tips, Steve! I bought myself a new MS170 last spring to help with cutting up deadwood into firewood, and your videos have been a big help in making me confident that I can keep it in good repair. I'll buy you a beer if I ever see you in BC!

@StevesSmallEngineSaloon 3 года назад

COOL!

@twobeards6714 Год назад

Been doing it this way for over 50 years. It turns out that this pearl of wisdom was right. If I live long enough it might happen again.

@richman61 Год назад

Another useful tip, thanks Steve. Just did mine now I'll double check myself.

@milham76 2 года назад

Incredibly helpful with clear, concise instructions. After an hour of frustration when my chain kept coming off (had it on too tight), this worked like a charm. Thank you so much.

@StevesSmallEngineSaloon 2 года назад

Great to hear!

@davidwright4537 Год назад

Your explanation for removing the “pre-load slack” is excellent. The same logic/method is used when tuning a guitar (or any stringed instrument), always “tune-up” (adjust in the direction of increased tension) to assure the structure of contact in the load direction. Pulling up on the bar will save a lot of time. I also find it best to run the saw for a minute to check the tension after adjustment, especially with new chains (true with guitar strings as well!).

@Magnabee97 Год назад

Again I learned something I didn’t know but should. Thank you Steve.

@StevesSmallEngineSaloon Год назад

Glad to help

@bigbeardog99 2 года назад

This is exactly how I tension my chain. I must have watched you and this video a few year ago ;) . As always great content !

@StevesSmallEngineSaloon 2 года назад

Right on Ronny! Thank You...

@splittingreen9735 4 года назад

6 months ago I didn’t know anything about small engines but now after watching so many of these videos and working on some that I bought for myself to mess with out of curiosity, I now use them on a regular basis and also repair them on the side. Thank you for all the great information and detail.

@StevesSmallEngineSaloon 4 года назад

Great to hear!

@LTVoyager 2 года назад

This is exactly how I adjusted my chain when I worked as a logger in the late 70s and early 80s. Normally I would rest the very tip of the bar on a log or stump and then lean forward a little on the top handle and that keep enough pressure under the bar to allow proper tensioning and tightening of the bar nuts.

@StevesSmallEngineSaloon 2 года назад

Perfect!

@P--O Месяц назад

This video is the best I've seen regarding chain tension. 100% no nonsense perfectly explained from a true pro! Thank you for sharing your knowledge

@StevesSmallEngineSaloon Месяц назад

Wow, thanks!

@peterhalstead7281 2 года назад

I have been using chainsaws for many years and Steve’s the only video that gets it right he knows what he’s talking about 👍👍

@StevesSmallEngineSaloon 2 года назад

Right on Pete! Thank You...

@DanielWilliams-ry6ub 3 года назад

I have way too arguments about this. There only direction that I had years ago was being able to slide the chain with a gloved hand, then it was properly tensioned. The one thing I could I could never figure out was the play in the bar with the bolts loose! Do hold it up or not? It seemed like everyone I ran into ignored this. This clear explanation of the complete process I have seen and I am 74. A total like and you have a new subscriber! Actually his end result is very close to my original perception of the correct process years ago. It was listening to other people that messed me up! Thank you.

@StevesSmallEngineSaloon 3 года назад

Thank You...and You're Welcome...

@dmccoon 3 года назад

I ran across your video by chance as I was strolling through my RU-vid videos. I said to my self "OK, let's see what kind of BS this guy is spreading" I am a certified Sthil and Husky tech, and you sir are 100% correct. No BS at all...................... RESPECT to you Steve.

@StevesSmallEngineSaloon 3 года назад

WOW! Thank you Danny...

@porknbeans7420 Год назад

Exactly what I needed to know! I had a feeling I was doing this incorrectly. Thks!

@StevesSmallEngineSaloon Год назад

Glad I could help!

@tomgarner553 Год назад

Well, I’ll admit, I clicked on this video apprehensively. However, after watching you’re one of the few that actually tighten your chain as I do. It has always worked well for me doing it this exact way. Good video sir.

@StevesSmallEngineSaloon Год назад

Right on Tom! Thank You...

@quadsman11 2 года назад

Hey again Steve ! Have probably watched this video well over 20 times, I have a small engine repair shop, much like you. Have used it for staff training, ( of course, they never believe the boss ) ! And every once in a while, I use it to refresh my own mind, ( gotta make sure I am telling my guys right ) ! Thanks again Steve ! ' Always have great information in your videos !

@StevesSmallEngineSaloon 2 года назад

Right on buddy! You're Welcome...

@frednurk8590 4 года назад

It also pays to pull the chain through once tightened up and just check the tension in a few places. Got me stuffed why, but there always seems to be a slack spot in it. If I find one, I take up half the difference and re-tighten.

@mikeslinde5506 4 месяца назад

Oh my gosh…once again thanks for showing me this!

@Eric-mp4ft Год назад

Hello, I’ve inherited some chainsaws and got kitted up with the trousers, jacket, face visors and gloves, Pappy never got that far telling me about the chain’s tension,, now I do, many thanks, Coventry uk

@jimb4978 3 года назад

Your chain sharpening video was very informative & in depth. I could appreciate your format of instruction,as a retired appliance tech & facilitator. Great job!

@StevesSmallEngineSaloon 3 года назад

Thank you very much!

@lewis2553 3 года назад

Good job! I personally, already knew this, but it's good that you're educating the new generation of wood cutters. They need to know these things. Keep up the good work! I usually just set the saw down on the floor of my trailer with the tip resting on a piece of firewood of sufficient diameter to raise it to the highest position and then tighten the nuts. That way I have the left hand free to stabilize the saw and keep it from moving around.

@StevesSmallEngineSaloon 3 года назад

Well said!

@thare82 11 месяцев назад

Great video! These are the kind of skills that we should be teaching to kids in high school.

@StevesSmallEngineSaloon 11 месяцев назад

We agree!

@mustangtonto5862 2 года назад

Holding the tip of the bar up while adjusting chain tension makes a ton (or cord) of sense. I did not know that. Thank you!

@StevesSmallEngineSaloon 2 года назад

Glad to help!

@bendoucette3530 3 года назад

Thanks Steve, I did not know about keeping the tip up when going through the tensioning process. It's a good day when I learn something. Take care, Ben from Nova Scotia

@StevesSmallEngineSaloon 3 года назад

Glad to help