Chainsaw Bar – Maintenance and Replacement

The power-driven chainsaw is primarily used for cutting trees and wood. Having a protruding arm it carries an endless chain into which the cutting teeth are set. Each segment on the chain is constructed from riveted metal sections much like a bicycle chain but without rollers. Down below each link is a tiny metal finger that locates the chain on the bar.

The drive link also helps to carry lubricating oil around the bar and uses the engine’s drive sprocket inside the body of the saw. Bars for chainsaws are designed for full time professional use in firewood cutting and heavy duty farm use. They are excellent for modern high speed saws requiring a combination of low weight and durability. Chainsaw bars require good maintenance by due cleaning and sharpening as it almost always wears out and needs replacement.

The bars along with the chain are critical components on a chainsaw and so need to be checked regularly for damage. Uneven wear of bar rails occurs from heat or improper filing. Bar grooves need to be kept clean and free of debris. The oil holes at the end should be always clear to allow proper lubrication. After every ten hours of operation the bar should be flipped over to keep the wear even. This ensures chainsaw bars lasting for longer time.

It is best to make good use of the owner’s manual to make sure the chainsaw bar remains in good working order. Check nose tip sprocket to ensure it is wheeling free and that anchoring rivets are tight. Many factors determine how a chainsaw performs in the cutting operation and first thing is that the bar and chain need to be a perfect match.

The chain pitch being the size of your chain must match your drive sprocket and bar tip sprocket. Also the bar’s cutting length is different from its overall length. Cutting length is actually the distance from the front of the saw right back to the tip. The chainsaw bar will thus require the most maintenance by cleaning and sharpening as it usually wears out first.
Chainsaw repairs therefore involve a guide bar to be kept in good condition with proper maintenance. You can lubricate the sprocket tips which are a simple way to keep the tool in good shape. This will also ensure that the cutting will not be too strenuous for you after prolonged use. A lot of tension on the chain increases wear and tear on the bar requiring replacement more often. It should fit just tight enough against the bar but should still spin freely when moved by gloved hands.

Majority of chainsaw chains being made are self oiling. Oil released from the bars reservoir keeps the chain on chainsaws well lubricated. Duly oiled chains have less heat and friction between the bar and chain. Reduced friction allows the blade to cut evenly and spin freely. Extra long chainsaw bars are fitted with roller noses and can be replaced on or off the field.