Do THIS Every Time You Buy A New Chainsaw Chain! How to avoid your chain from popping off.

Thanks for tuning back into Chickanic! If you found this video helpful, please LIKE, SUBSCRIBE and COMMENT!!
If you would like to show your support, find my Amazon Wish List HERE!
www.amazon.com...
Buy your own Chickanic T-Shirt or Hoodie HERE!
chickanic.com/
Find some of my favorite tools in the list below!
Get a WERA tool kit like mine HERE!
amzn.to/3CEkWo5
Get your WERA 8mm nut driver HERE!
amzn.to/3I4tx4B
Find your own 2 Cycle adjusting tool kit HERE!!
amzn.to/3IMn4vB
Get a compression tester like mine HERE!
amzn.to/3KM7Ibg
Get a spark tester like mine HERE!
amzn.to/3vIHUbM
Get your own digital tachometer like mine HERE!
amzn.to/3X2emS7
Find your own digital multimeter HERE!
amzn.to/38aX2FJ
Get some 12" hemostats HERE! I LOVE THEM!!
amzn.to/3tMvlvd
Get my FAVORITE pliers HERE!
amzn.to/36P5ud3
Get an Owl Torx drill bit set HERE!
amzn.to/3urvRze
Want a Endoscope like mine? Find it HERE!
amzn.to/3Ni71Ir
Looking for the BEST 2 Cycle Oil? Find it here!
amzn.to/3E4kCkT
My name is Bre. I took two years of small engine repair at the local college. When I left school, I fell into a wonderful job at a local small engine shop where I worked the counter for a couple years. In 2010 my husband and I opened up our own small engine shop in central Arkansas where I am able to work alongside my family and best friends. We see over 2,000 pieces of small engine equipment every year, and answer 1,000's of small engine questions. We specialize in brands such as Briggs and Stratton, Kohler, Echo and Shindaiwa, but work everyday on MANY other brands like Stihl, Husqvarna, Honda, Craftsman, Remington, Red Max, Troy Bilt, Scag, Bad Boy, Hustler, World Lawn, Poulan, Mantis, Etc.. Hopefully, my experience I share, will save you Time, Money and Frustration in the future!
DISCLAIMER: Links included in this description might be affiliate links. If you purchase a product or service with the links that I provide I may receive a small commission. There is no additional charge to you! Thank you for supporting my channel so I can continue to provide you with free content each week!
Although very informative, these videos are for entertainment purposes. Please use all possible safety precautions when repairing and operating your small engine equipment.

[@Chickanic]

Thanks for Watching! Find a link to all of my "Must Have", Favorite Tools HERE!! www.amazon.com/shop/chickanic?ref_=cm_sw_r_cp_ud_aipsfshop_aipsfchickanic_9ERPFPBNGQ924P8NS63B

[@justinblake420]

i know my chainsaws through n through watch all these types of videos and none are right. to my surprise i found one thats all correct and thoroughly impressed its a good looking womans video

[@JnitraM078]

Some of the things on your Amazon wish list can't be shipped to a wish list address 😢

[@Chickanic]

@@JnitraM078 Really! Thanks for letting me know! I had no idea.

[@yveslarose4774]

Hello from Québec 😊 My little echo 345 do that all the time when im cutting Small branch and it's annoying. A echo dealership guy told me to keep it really thigh because of that , Small chainsaw have tendency to do that and It helped a bit but still Y can't pinpoint why it's that bad 😢 really love my echo . I've changed the bar for a new one and Those little stud many time😅 It's a bit stupid to have so small 10mm bolt for keeping bar & chain on the saw but It works it you don't go Bananas on thighting it😂. Happy to see you again in a new shop and sexy as always Women And tools are the best 😊 thanks for the info I'll keep a eye on those driver After that chain got off My way of correction is Small hammer and A railroad track to punch it Back to shape it always seems to work for me 🎉 best luck to you for the future 🎉

[@danielcarter7430]

It's worth mentioning to make sure your saw is oiling properly/bar grooves and oil hole are clear. Lack of oil will cause a chain to stretch due to excess heat from friction.

[@kenbrown2808]

also worth mentioning that a good brand of bar oil will cost more, but it will provide much better lubrication than the discount brand.

[@danielcarter7430]

@@kenbrown2808 true. Stihl oil isn't what it used to be. I've tried both echo, and fram from advance auto parts and been happy with both. Boswell is the best I've ever tried if you can find it.

[@iffykidmn8170]

@@kenbrown2808 Good can be had for a discount just need to figure out which is which.

[@MrCelticatheart]

Right on, I could not agree more!

[@irieman442]

I saw she had a piece of cardboard near where she was running the saw.. I assume this was to check the spray pattern of the oiler.😀

[@LukeMcMullin]

Hi, I am 61 yrs. old and have been using chainsaws since I was 15yrs old, yet I never knew to look for 3 drivers to be free of the bar when you lift it. So, you just earned a new subscriber. I would like to also tell you that you are a very good teacher and I am a man that is not afraid to be taught by a younger woman. I don't have the problem of chains coming off but I have been running my chains too tight all these years. Thanks Luke.

[@kencleg7721]

I always do 2 w the 3 rd tip almost out

[@kencleg7721]

3 it’s is

[@savage22bolt32]

3 drivers out of the groove is too loose for my taste. Never threw a chain on any saw.

[@duke6024]

​@@savage22bolt32in vide did look like a gap more than I would prefer I 50% of the time lift the bar. Yes new will stretch I'm a novice did not know about the chain catcher at bottom. That was really nice she has the set up for making her chain size not sure cost of them tools yet good to know

[@savage22bolt32]

@@duke6024 Yesterday, I let my chain get a a little loose. I was up in a tree, pinched the bar and pulled the chain off. Glad I was wearing gloves! Got the chain back on and was really careful on the last few limbs. Generally, I tend to like tighter rather than looser chain slack.

[@mikesears8645]

This is the first time I have seen your video. I wish more people would explain the proper use of a chain saw. In the 80's I was lumberjack and always carried 2 saws when out cutting and 6 chains. I would change them every 3 trees I fell. At the end of the day I cleaned them and sharpened them for the next day. A lot of work but if it is maintained right you can get many years of service. I just recently retired my Stihl 056 magnum after 40+ years unable to find the parts necessary to fix it. I feel like apart of me is gone.

[@franklinmarchman3541]

In In short, your videos continue to teach this old 67 year old dog new ways to fix and use my power equipment. This one today addressed perfectly my questions about chains popping off saws. Thank you, well done!

[@scottnewton790]

I enjoyed your video, I'm 70 and have used chainsaws for 50 years...that being said, you have taught me today. My Grandpa told me something when I was eight years old.... when you stop learning, they are shoveling dirt on your face... thank you for today's lesson!

[@nelsondavis4310]

The day you stop learning is the day you stop living. same thing but a little different.

[@anthonywilson4873]

Watched a guy who uses chainsaws everyday. He takes the cover off the chain drive clutch assembly an completely cleans all the craps out of the casing, cleans the bar and chain and lubes them. He then mixes fuel for next day and tops up his bar oil. On starting each day he checks chain is being oiled by revving engine and seeing some oil being thrown off. A professional at work!

[@ernestinebass4371]

They say "cleanliness is next to godliness", but with a chainsaw, it's next to impossible.

[@krotiteleprirody]

Ha! He forgot to lube the bar sprocket!

[@73Datsun180B]

A professional or just not a lazy jock strap?

[@nothankyou5524]

What does that have to do with this content provider?

[@John-rr4zz]

Hi Love from the UK. I am retired now and I worked on every make going. Mainly Stihl and Husqvarna. I was a gold standard Husqvarna Technician. I have encountered everything that you mention and every variation that anyone can think of. The majority caused by incorrect chain tension. Generally most owner users haven't got a clue about using one of the most potentially dangerous tools that anyone can use. Some get away with it and some don't. BUT.. please use ear plugs of defenders. when you get older you WILL have hearing problems. WHAT SHE SAY... AND don't keep blipping the throttle. Raise the throttle up to full chat and then lower it back to tick over. It allows the run in of the new parts. once again great video, it brings back thoughts of all the crazy things customers did.

[@mattaynardi7655]

Thanks Chickanic! This is exactly what happened and no one else on KZbin was any help. Yer the best!❤

[@PeterJavea]

Just love what you share here. Your last point about a spare chain, is dead right. In my box is a perfectly good used chain, plus a new spare spark plug, etc Now I'm retired, when I chain wood i stop 15 mins early and use my compressor and brushes to "blow it all clean", then lovingly sharpen it, ready for tomorrow. Looking after tools is half the fun of having them....

[@PatsPurposefulPutzing]

stopping "early" is also a good safety tip being overly tired is when accidents happen

[@borowski07]

Great video. I’m in my 50’s female. Cutting trees and learning everything from my 80yr old dad. Your videos are so informative.

[@junoliang295]

My supervisor at my last tree care company was a lady in her 60s, didn't start her career in arboriculture until her mid 40s!

[@SteeleMagnolia]

Same here. Just turned 60, and quite efficient with the chainsaw, as well as safety conscious. It blows a lot of people away, especially men, to see a woman handle these machines with expertise 😊

[@Susann1984]

I've been cutting for a while too. Love the work but always learning. Always respect the tool.

[@mikejesters5046]

When you replace a chain or sharpening it’s a good rule to check the bar for ridges. Side dressing the bar greatly improves the cut. Also turn the bar over to even put the wear on the tip.

[@bobbg9041]

Ranch dressing or can i use Italian?

[@Fly4aWhiteGuy]

Honey mustard.

[@thegreatshitstain]

May i ask what you mean by "side dressing" the side of the bar? Thx

[@mikejesters5046]

@@thegreatshitstain yes sir sidedressing the bar means to remove the lip that forms as the chain rolls around the bar. I use a belt sander but you can do the same with a file. Remove the bar a run your fingers from the middle of the bar out to the edge. You’ll find a ridge. That needs to be removed from both sides of the bar all the way around. Lay the file on the side of the bar and file the ridge even with the rest of the bar. Pay attention to the nose of the bar. Now when you’ve done this clean out the groove in the bar. You can use a hacksaw blade to clean it out. Pay attention to the oiler holes near the back of the bar. You need to rotate your bar occasionally. The main wear will be on the bottom side of the bar. Turning it over equals the wear out on the bar and give you longer bar life

[@ellenramirez2955]

Do not run fingers allong bar lol

[@seanmchugh3476]

Been using chainsaws for 40 years but you stihl taught me something. Thank you.

[@HawksDiesel]

Ahhhh, i see what you did there!

[@danielbrown9469]

I learn something new every time I watch your videos. I love saving time, money, and frustration! ☺️

[@aaronblackford981]

Of course. Most ppl that watched this don’t need to be reminded.

[@richrobb2322]

She is the chainsaw " whisper "!

[@julesviolin]

⚠️Bedding the new chain into the old sprocket is one reason the slack increases initially with the 1st few runs. Also it beds down into the old bar groove also

[@markkerr9604]

Love your channel. Please leave the glasses on or off. It messes with my head.😊

[@stevesawyer6377]

67 years old and did not know this information. Great video, thank you

[@beingthere597]

Also a good idea to check the sprocket or rim sprocket when replacing a chain. If the sprocket is too worn, it can tear up a new chain. A worn chain on a new sprocket can cause premature sprocket wear.

[@jameshedrick605]

Agree with you on that. I do every time I put a new chain on my saws and anytime i go clean them

[@tclodfelter8789]

Yup.. just had to change mine yesterday!

[@paulrobinson5833]

Grease front sprocket.

[@ralphp3057]

I’m surprised it wasn’t mentioned that a worn grooved sprocket can throw a chain .😁

[@DutchKC9UOD]

Nice to see a young lady making mechanic videos I’m to old to make them not a software guy just infrastructure and fixing trucks and small engines! Thank you, I share them with my kids

[@VerdantHuman]

TY - as a part-time backyard "weekend warrior" from Oz, I greatly appreciate your advice on mowers/ride-ons & chainsaws - please keep doin your thing!

[@clanwatkins]

I've been running chainsaws since I was 13, 49 years, and no one ever told me about the way you tension a chain, glad I found your channel. No wonder I've worn out so many bars😁

[@alcodie1558]

I don't know if you will ever see this comment but I just wanted to say thank you for doing this video because my chain wouldn't go back into the bar and I couldn't see what the hell the problem was . Glad I found this video : )

[@henrybarker1159]

Check your sprocket as well and soak your chain in chain oil also helps

[@johnwilbanks3885]

Excellent tutelage Bre! I’ve been using chainsaws for decades and still learned a few things today😊

[@rodjspowell4720]

My first proper job in 1970 was repairing mower’s trimmers chain saw etc which did for three years small business in the uk love the way you explain things in joy your blogs

[@ushagorringe3250]

I have been watching you for a very long time and learn so much from you. We have a 20 acre goat ranch and for the last 25 we have been using lots of power equipment mostly chainsaws. I work on all my own equipment, thought I knew a lot till I watched you. All of your videos are well done and I learn so much. Your camera angles are perfect so I can see exactly close up what you are doing. If you reccomend something, I always do it because of all the experience you have had.Thank you so much, all the best to you. Chris

[@alanhollis9610]

I appreciate your channel. I'm so damn hardheaded that I rarely take time to listen to good advice. But when I do and the info really helps, I am grateful. So, thank you.

[@barryfirth1187]

I carry spare chain because I can maintain the cutting-edge for a bit,all the rocks jumping out of the ground at me dulled my chain. So every now and then, I have a coffee with my brother-in-law while he sharpens all my chains, and I'm good for a while! ☝️😁

[@ttommytom]

I'm on my 4th house. What never ceases to amaze me are nails in trees. The ones closest to driveways or when two trees might be close enough for laundry or whatever. I find them. I helped 2 neighbors who had trees fall when no one was home. We all have 500 foot driveways. Both times I found the nail. 2 chainsaws with 2 extra chains. Dirt is a quicker fix than a rock which is quicker than a nail but I believe I'm preaching to the choir...lol

[@joebrown9288]

After watching a few times, you are a very Educated young lady and very intelligent when it comes to chainsaws. I want to thank you for this KZbin channel, it definitely helps the new generation and even us old dogs can still learn from a person like you and you know dealing with the public sometimes there is just very little common sense, Can’t buy a book on it. You have both comment sense and very well educated and if was definitely a lot of self taught and experience for sure. Thank you 👍

[@peteschiavoni]

That’s great info! I was taught many moons ago (over 45 years- I know I’m old) to just make new chains slightly tighter, cut for a few minutes and then check. Your way I like better because once you start cutting, you never wanted to stop.

[@alexandercopeland2849]

And dont strain on clutch and engine

[@richardwallinger1683]

I keep on coming back at 79 years know it all year old .. there is always more to learn .. Although I wouldn,t admit it .. keep smiling . best wishes from Portugal. Old retired English guy.

[@beyond6storm]

03:25 pick stuff up, turn around, take short break to figure out where you can put it temporarily, put thing in final resting place. Such a familiar little dance :))

[@568843daw]

Wow. Finally, an informative and complete explanation. My problem is solved. Thank you.

[@beerdrinker6452]

Thank you for teaching me that I will never buy chain in 100' lengths. I also did not know I should lift my bar up while tightening the cover. Thank you.

[@ToddAdams1234]

Their are 2 reasons why you lift. One is that the bar will go up eventually and then the chain just become loose again. The other is so that you can take advantage of the felling sights that are built into the powerhead (engine). If the bar isn’t brought up then the sights will be off.

[@rc391995]

If you want to run less expensive you buy a sharpener a punch a riivet roller and a hundred foot roll of chain. I'm sure she makes.those chains up.per customers request

[@kennymead6917]

O MY god, Thank you. I will get 3 to 4 jumps and get frustrated. I always thought it was just a cheep saw, it is HF electric. Now it makes perfect sense. Now I will take the time too bring it to speed and readjust AND stop " wackin" the twigs. You are amazing.

[@MackMoore-q2n]

I love the sounds of chainsaws early in the morning and two stroke smoke it’s almost as good as a cup of coffee. Great tips as usual, your shop reminds me of when my kids got ahold of it lol.

[@How2Man_101]

And your clutter is like my garage and back porch since clearing out storage. The wife and I are swamped with life so it will get better eventually. I hope you open up the new shop soon, when I need a part I usually needed 30 minutes ago. Thanks for making the channel and all the info, it has helped me a lot.

[@wagonerjared]

I agree 100%. New chain, the adjustment tool stays in the back pocket for the first tank of fuel. By then, its generally broke in. One other thing is I never like to break in a new bar with a used chain. Start new bar with new chain. Great video!

[@LisaMedeiros-tr2lz]

If the adjuster tool has a screwdriver end, not good in the back pocket. One trip and you don't wanna think about where it is gonna sink. Just take your jug of bar oil and put a loose zip tie on the jug handle and drop the tool into that zip tie loop.

[@RiffRaff1062]

I just had chain throwing incident just couple days ago with my 455 Rancher, it trashed three of my drivers ripped the tips of the drive links right off. $24.00 bucks down the drain. I did have spare chains on hand and I was back to cutting in no time. Thank you for doing this video on this topic , I found it very helpful to prevent this in the future. I going to like and subscribe right now. Thanks again.

[@keithseymour3825]

Putting together videos for my grandsons to learn proper techniques this one is good.

[@midnightsailor1]

I get a lot help from your channel. I'm very good with large engines and diesel but small engines ,chainsaws etc not so much. Recently because of your channel I redirected two discarded chainsaws and one line trimmer. Thanks for your help.

[@fireballxl-5748]

Cut wood, heated house over 30 year. Never had chain pop off. Guess I've been fortunate because I have cut very small twigs and such now and then. So I've learned something and also the 3 link rule I didn't know. Wish your video was around 30 years ago. I'm sure many new cutters will be greatly benefited. Thanks!

[@ernestinebass4371]

I've found that trimming small twigs with the top of the bar rather than the bottom helps alleviate that problem. The chain will tend to throw off stringy debris like bark shards as it goes 'round the tip of the bar.

[@michaellabus5907]

You can take clear packing tape over the new "sticker" to help protect from that happening again. Love your videos. Only known about you for a couple months and I work on all my own stuff, not just small engines, but cars, electrical. Like they say jack of all trades but master of none. Keep up the great work and always be yourself!!!

[@roswald392]

Really great explanation, thank you. I've been using chainsaws of various sizes for four years now with heavy use in the summer. It took me a while to fully appreciate how much chains stretch and the increase risk of them slipping off when rapidly removing a lot of small limbs. It's so important to routinely check the chain tension when you're making a lot of cuts. I still slip a chain now and then, although more rarely, and every time I do it, I kick myself for not making more frequent tension checks.

[@johnthomas2255]

I'm 90 & ALWAYS CAN USE HELP WITH CHAIN SAWS, GOOD VIDEO & KEEP THEM COMING.

[@papascruffy]

I had one chain stretch so much I couldn't use it, would not tighten up, and it's a Stihl, only one I've had do this. Great video, I don't have a chain jump off often at all but noticed having to re adjust, makes sense!

[@kknows3512]

Just take a link out.

[@mr.cslawncare1347]

I didn’t even do a search for this video but needed it since I just bought a new Echo saw. I don’t use them much but I e already gone through two chains. I had to cut down bamboo, and all sizes of saplings in a bed. Now it makes since. Thank you

[@MrCelticatheart]

When cutting smaller limbs I always use the top of the bar instead of the bottom which pushes the debris away instead of pulling it in! The chain catcher on my saw is pristine the only ding on it is from when I loaned it out to someone. Great video Bre and btw awesome new shop, however I don't envy the mess you have there haha!

[@dougmoran13]

Ya man I hear you on loaning saws. Last 2 guys I loaned a saw to broke it. Getting tired of paying for others lack of skill. No more loaning saws, they buy their own. Or any tools for that matter. Employees can be really hard on tools.

[@obbiebeal3060]

I have no brother or friend that I will loan my chain saw too.

[@oldroscoe2590]

Loaning out tools/equipment. What I've learned, if it has a motor or engine don't loan it, if it doesn't have a motor or engine still don't loan it.

[@MrCelticatheart]

top not tip ;-)@@440tomcat

[@MrCelticatheart]

right@@hime273

[@redmesa2975]

Just bought a 25” bar & chain for my Uncles old Stihl 056AV. $160 !😳. 45 year old saw cuts like a beast ! 88cc

[@brookside5045]

Great video. Just to let you know I'm a contractor by trade and a mechanic of none or should I say " No leaves on my shade tree mechanic skills" I just bought a new saw and it's doing this. Now I think I have one or maybe to leaves on that tree now. Thanks 👍👍

[@joemcintyre2090]

I'm glad I watched this video again I either forgot a bunch of stuff you talked about or I wasn't paying attention the 1st time around.

[@EnGammalAmazon]

One of the best ways to keep your drive links from getting beaten up when the chain comes off, is to purchase an Oregon rim style clutch drum and rim appropriate to you r chain size. The 'star' sprockets have six to seven teeth (generally). When the chain comes off, it will drop down and the teeth of the star type sprocket have their way with the chain. A rim type sprocket has a smooth outer surface with nothing there to damage the chain. There are small slots in the outer face of the rim sprocket that the drive links fit into. Chain saws have been a huge part of my life for over 60 years. I have been a vocational forestry instructor in high schools, taught log building for many years and for felling timber on our property and while working with and for loggers. The single greatest thing you can do to improve your safety outcomes is to learn to file the sharpen the chain. Do not be intimidated by hand filing a saw chain. Once you learn the basic principles of how the chain works, it becomes very intuitive on how to sharpen a saw. Learning to file is about 10% knowledge and 90% practice. Once you learn to file a saw, you will be amazed at how easy it is and that you can keep your chain sharp while working all day long. I purchased an expensive, pro quality chain grinder over 20 years ago because I thought it might help my crew members. I used it once and it has been gathering dust ever since. It is easy to touch up your chain with a couple light strokes on each tooth every time you fill up your saw with fuel. It will give you a break in your work routine which will make you safer on the job. You will put out far less effort when cutting with a sharp chain which again makes you safer. Your chains will also last much longer if you keep the chain sharp. Learning to had file is a benefit all the way around. Remember.......10% knowledge and 90% practice and you will be a safer saw operator if you take the time to know your equipment.

[@gtdude2883]

This has happened to me recently with a brand new 18” greenworks electric when I was cutting some small twigs and the brand new chain popped off and damaged about 8 drivers. I had to file them down smooth in order to put the chain back on. Thanks for sharing this tip it was super helpful.

[@rw7594]

I was a first time chainsaw owner last February. I noticed after my first few cuts that my chain was a bit loose. Easy to tighten. I also learned from another that once it cools down to check that it isn't too tight with the metal contracting. I know to watch for this with a new chain.

[@cliffbushong2396]

You truly are excellent; I have run a saw for 40 years had my own tree service for 25 and still I have learned more from you than anyone you are more knowledgeable than most and you truly help people including me and thanks to you I am going to have my son who owns a machine shop build me some round chain stoppers for my saws, all the aggravation I could have avoided trying to file those guides with a round file to finish a job ha ha if only I could have watched you many years ago ha ha but I am much older than you but not even 1/2 as clever unfortunately for me 😂so thank you again I appreciate your expertise

[@donmoore7785]

Lots of good tips here, which I learned over the years.

[@susanfischer6746]

Good video, I agree with almost everything you said , BUT, I have worked with chains, both cutting and roller in industrial setting for between 30 to 40 years now retired, and was told by an old mechanic that chains do not stretch, stretching is from pulling, chains elongate which is caused by wearing at the pins resulting in increased overall length. I know this sounds like nit picking but when I taught classes the maintenace guys had a better understanding

[@peterfoote5342]

Great advice and thanks for your channel from Australia. I had never owned a chainsaw before but got a 14" Ego skin bundled with a multitool kit. I used it a few times and the chain popped off almost every time. Got a bit gun shy about flailing chains and basically used the pole saw for my occaisional need for one. It had been sitting in the shed and I was planning on getting rid of it when I came across this video. I'm going to get it out and work through your tips.

[@f0r3v3r_]

I am using an early 1970's era WEN T1400 Type-1 14" electric, that Grandpa had put a 16" bar on. I used it a few times in the past after my Dad gave it to me for a fallen limb at my neighbor's place. I was glad to get a hold of one for the few times I need one. And, even without any modern safety features, it has become one of the tools I remember both of them by. I never needed to adjust it until I loaned it to a friend and the chain jumped on him. After so many tries and other explanations, you are the first to solve the chain jumping issue it developed and it is now better than ever for me. I didn't understand in adjustment, that the order of events is so critical! I was tightening the bar first and ruining it! I truly appreciate your help getting Grandpa's chainsaw running again!

[@frankferrell3397]

You are so good at teaching love your content I get a little smarter every video. ❤

[@gscott5778]

Yup. A jumped chain 90% of the time I get to de-burr the drivers. Everything you said is spot on with my experience. One thing I have not done is to rev the saw a few times before the first use. I normally do a cut or two and look at the chain. If it's sagging I tighten it. So I learned something from ya and thanks. I normally run the drivers with my fingers after a jumped chain and typically I find between 3-6 drivers with burrs. Hand file works fine. QUESTION - Does sharpening a chain on the saw put a lot of filings in the bar groove and contribute to faster bar and chain wear. I never used to sharpen chains on the bar for that reason but, I've gotten lazy and sharpen on the bar. I did make a chaing holder for sharpening out of a couple of 8-10 inch pieces of Angle iron loosely bolted together. Put the chain drivers between the angle iron and tighten it in the vise. I used 8-10 inches of angle iron because any longer that he anglie iron won't hold the chain tight enough. But back to the question, do the filings from chain sharpening contribute to faster chain and bar wear?

[@73Datsun180B]

a file will fling the filings away from the chain and bar

[@DaddyBeanDaddyBean]

Timely video, as I just bought new chains for my little MS170 on Saturday. Decades ago I was taught to tension them to the point you couldn't easily lift *any* drivers all the way out of the groove - sounds like I've been over-tightening my chains for years.

[@valleypivot]

I HAVE MADE NEW CHAINS FOR 45 YEARS. I ALWAYS SOAK THE. CHAIN IN BAR OIL FOR A FEW HOURS BEFORE INSTALLING. YOUR CHAIN WILL NOT STRETCH/WEAR NEARLY AS MUCH, AS INSTALLING A DRY CHAIN. Guaranteed

[@Inkd_watkins]

I’m a new saw owner. So, this is super helpful!!

[@norwegiangadgetman]

I think my father used to have 3 or 4 spares for his chainsaw back before he retired. In the early days he used a round file to sharpen them in the evening, then he got some sort of holder for the file, and the last years he used a dedicated grinder for it. You never know what you're going to hit when cutting down a tree, and he was clearing fields for farms, so some might have old nails or crampons holding pieces of mesh fence or even barb wire deep in them. And since he did this mostly in warmer months, the trees were full of sap, and that also takes a toll on chains. (He didn't just cut down trees, he dug out the roots, dug trenches and laid down drainage pipes and backfilled. Not something you want to do when the ground is frozen solid.)

[@tomrogers9467]

Saws have an uncanny ability to find the ONLY nail in a forty foot tree! Ask me how I know!!!!

[@norwegiangadgetman]

@@tomrogers9467 They might just as well rename them 'Metal Debris Locators'

[@FatLittleOldLady]

Last year was the first time I ever had or used a chainsaw and I soon learned I had to get a sharpener and learn to sharpen because it saves money, I have 3 from last year ready to sharpen with my little Dremel sharpener but I forgot how so I was going to watch the tutorial again when I stumbled on your vid. I'm 60, btw. My little chainsaw is just 10 inches and a Ryobi. I hate when it throws the blade over and over. Watching and learning, I cut a lot of trees last year with my little chainsaw and pole saw, both ryobi 10". Thanks for making this video. Everything makes a lot of sense. You're an angel.

[@msgtdan60]

In addition to a spare chains I have a spare bar. This is a hold over from when I only had one saw. If I misjudged tension/compression and pinched the saw, I could unbolt the powerhead, install spare blade and chain, and cut the pinched blade free. Then carefully inspect blade and chain for damage before using again.

[@donmoore7785]

I just learned this lesson. Put my extra bar and chain in my car (sawing offsite) just in case.

[@savage22bolt32]

Been there, done that!

[@lonesquid]

Your videos are super! Excellent mechanical knowledge, combined with superb communication skills!

[@razinfishes1918]

Great video, I'm just a typical home owner that uses my saw on occasions. So this is good info that I never realized. Thank you!

[@tedv8789]

Issue I've had with electric trimming saw with the longer 16" to 18" Oregon bar with 3/8 skip tooth narrow sized .043 gauge chain, when cutting anything smaller than the distance between the skip tooth you can see the bar to the tip wagging like a sign wave. Must stop immediately or the chain will come off no matter what the age or adjustment of the chain is. Switched to a 10"-12" bar for the small stuff, no wagging with the shorter bar and I don't have to stop and swap out/repair the chain. My property is wooded, zoned agricultural. The electric keeps the urban sprawl HOA Karen neighbors from getting nosy annoying. Your tips here on warming up new chain, keep checking between cuts, adjust accordingly are what my dad taught me. Thanks for all your videos as my dad didn't teach me everything. lol

[@litewatefitr]

Thanks, Bre! Hope all is going smoothly with the shop transition, as well as the Mr's joint replacement! Stay safe

[@jamescraig8601]

As a retired axe man of 40 yrs. You should cleanthe bar groove every time you put a new chain on. You also run your chain a little looser than I do. FYI, I hate new chains. I spend the 1st hour tightening the stretch. Great video for new saw owners. Thank you.

[@ChrisJ144]

Learned more from this chainsaw video than any other and I’ve watched many. Thank you so much !

[@dantherentalman]

Chain stretch is actually all the rivets and rivet holes seating in to each other, making the chain longer. When making a chain from a roll, you must be careful to not install the joining links upside down, or the chain will jam on the sprocket. I did that in my early days.

[@stevegarboden2437]

You're right about the cost/quality of the chain, had a loop of ARCHER chain, had to tension it three times and it threw the chain once on an 8" walnut tree, swapped it for a loop of OREGON chain and bucked up a whole mess of 18'"-24" blow down Douglas fir, and only tensioned it once.

[@AN-eo9pf]

Nice looking motor you have wrapped up.

[@ryleyberg9438]

Great video you always explain everything well. Im professional arborist that uses chainsaws 8 hours day 5-6 days week one thing that you didnt mention is chains fall off if your bar has not been debur happens all the time when saws get used all the time.

[@johnfilce9236]

Very helpful! I was having this happen with my newer saw and finally realized that I needed to check chain tension frequently. I even discovered a little tool for this stored in the saw itself!

[@davidkettell1073]

read the manual ,which of course us guys never do .lol.

[@stickshaker101]

@@davidkettell1073 Even the name sounds like it's in another language!

[@neilholliker5131]

At age 82 I have been using Echo CS310 and 590 chainsaws along with a Lynxx battery pole chainsaw to take care of my 2.5 acre property. for a number of years. Your video contains the most helpful advice about on various aspects of chainsaws and blades that I have seen. You have helped me greatly with this. Thanks for your good work.

[@Matthew-ou2ie]

The chain elongates due to wear at the pivot points, but also due to heat. Don't forget to make the chain slack before you put the saw away.

[@kazparzyxzpenualt8111]

"Make the chain slack before you put it away" So smart to eliminate another mysterious cause of inadvertant chain stretching! All the logical dynamics at play which few ever even consider.

[@josephlacarrubba8219]

This may be helpful to some. A few (nearly 4) Home Depot had a sale on Ryobi chainsaws. You could purchase a 14” and a “16” together for the price of the “16”. Not too bad so I have 2 saws. Then 2 years ago I lent my “14” to a friend and he bent the bar. OK so time for a new bar. Come to find out, Ryobi uses the same engine and culch for the “14” as they do for the “16”. So, I bought a new “16” bar and chain. I have been using this saw for the last 2 years and have not had a problem. I wonder if any other manufactures’ do the same thing? So now I have a free back-up 16".

[@TheReal1953]

A few tips from a retired pro: Check your drivers every time the chain comes off-they can be re-shaped with a flat file and a round file. Copy the other drivers for shape. Never put a new chain on a worn floating rim sprocket. Dimensions of the new chain are larger than the recesses of the old floating rim sprocket. You can even grenade the rim sprocket. You can put a worn chain on a new rim sprocket. Push the bar tip down onto a wood block or whatever when you tighten the bar nuts after tightening the chain. This 'sets' the bar for work.

[@rider660r]

Tip from a logger and power right of ways..... That's BS, you can use a new chain on a worn rim. Done it for decades,only split one rim due to it being so worn the drives started to touch the clutch bell and cutting dead Black Locust. Every few chains I also flipped the rim like one should do to a bar with each chain. Same saws I bought (Jred 670 Champ an 2077) bought 30+ yrs ago are still throwing chips today. If I had a chain jump and it gets burrs I just reinstall it loose and give it a few blips of the throttle. The burrs are gone and just retighten chain.

[@markcompall5501]

Thank you for an informative video. Fortunately, I've never had a chain jump except when the sprocket cover nuts came loose on an ECHO 4910. One nut got lost. From then on, I replaced them with captured nuts. I also strongly recommend using quality chains only. 2 years in the forest, I've never had a problem with Stihl Yellow chains. And yes. Have spares. $20 - $30 is well worth the investment to stay at work rather than getting shut down.

[@michaelcountryman9130]

You also forgot to tell them to clean the bar guide and the clutch cover and the other side where t the oiler is sitting and clean the holes on the back of the of the bar guide that's how the bar chain gets lubrication and if you half to debur the drive links use a drimel it works alot better.

[@JHruby]

Good video. This is info most homeowner saw owners don't know. Also can I just call out that the chainsaw in the video is a great example of a saw that is tuned properly. It starts easily and runs almost immediately at low idle. There should be no need to start the saw and piss rev the hell out of it to get it to idle.

[@roncougar1]

Wow, so glad I found The Chickanic! Knowledge is power!❤️

[@kbittorf335]

Great information! I think the quality of the guide bar plays an important role as well. I have a 20” narrow kerf .325 bar on a Dolmar 5105 and have thrown the chain so much that the catcher is almost gone. The last time it happened I measured the slot of the bar with the ears of a dial calipers and found it to be .065” wide when the chain gauge is .050”! I never checked it when new but it was supposed to be .050”. I am patiently waiting to get a Sugihara bar once their North American shipment comes in. They’re made from tool steel as well as being light weight. I know a 95 y/o gentleman who told me he used a Mall chainsaw back in the day. It was gear driven and if he would hang the chain up while cutting the thing would pull the rivets out of the chain and trash it! I can understand how chains stretch today after use. 👍

[@iffykidmn8170]

any good saw shop should be able to close up the rails on a bar or one can purchase the tool for doing it yourself.

[@ngnmech]

Some of those narrow kerf bars have enough flex to jump the chain out of the groove with side pressure. For example I have taken a 20 inch Troybilt and laid the bar nose on a block of wood and held the rear handle with one finger with the saw laying on it side with just the weight of the saw and measured 1/2 inch of side flex. On some of the consumer saws, and some of the early 5105 saws they only came with the inside log spike and will cause the bar to twist if you leverage against the spike while sawing causing a moon cut. I have seen the 59" stihl branded bar used on an MS880 that would flip the chain off the bar due to bar droop, if the saw was turned on its side and the engine reved.

[@rider660r]

It's really a waste of $$ for those bars. I have cut for power companies in 3 states and logged in 2,cleared private land and firewood. In the time they wear out and for the price of them I can buy 4 Oregon bars and still save money. All I use is 24" bars,shorter you have to stoop to much and longer is a waste. With a 24" you can cut anything up to 7' diameter if you know how to cut. All bars wear out,it's up to you to know that and know what you're looking for. When sharpening it's simple to notice if there is to much slop in the bar groove. All chains do too.....bike,quad,saw...etc... they all do. If your oiler isn't properly oiling then it's going to effect both quicker than normal no matter what bar you use.

[@iffykidmn8170]

@@rider660r 84" fan cuts from inside the notch may or may not be possible with a 24" bar but I would like to see a 84" tree bucked with a 24" bar, by the way I am a fan of 24" bars for most cutting but not all cutting. perhaps I even cut with you while at Asplundh or one of the logging companies east of the Mississippi.

[@rider660r]

@@iffykidmn8170 It's absolutely possible,if one knows what they're doing and not saving the log for anything. When cutting for power we never had a need to save a log as if you're taking them to a mill. We actually would cut them up so woodwolves couldn't come by and haul them off to a mill. When I was logging I've cut a few Populars and 1 Red Oak that was in the 6' neighborhood with 24" bars (It's all I ever use and own) while logging. When logging the yard bucks the logs,let them run a stinking larger bar, I wasn't going to when there's no need,you're on mountain sides that are near vertical,and you might only have a few of those size trees on a job here and there. I filled in for a friend for a week at Aspounders in PA back in the early 90's and there's no way I'd work full time for those idiots. They're as dumb an lazy as Nelson,spent a month with them in OH and had to show those morons many things even though they had 10+ yrs there. Hell all those lazy idiots were running little 18" Craftsmans or Poulans.

[@liquidrockaquatics3900]

Your workshop reminds me of my dad‘s. Complete with the nails driven into the workbench, the chains scale scratched up, the chain breaker mounted, and spools of chain all over the place. He had a small engine repair business before the time I was born, until a couple of years before he died

[@gregwarren8583]

My uncle had a small engine shop and from the age of 6 (I am 72 now and still using a few I have at my lake property) I was using chain saws. He thought me everything you said and most of what the others were saying. Loved the Lexan cover idea one commenter had.

[@pigseye2]

great video! I learned so much and ahve been using a chainsaw for 30 years! Thank you!

[@danmacintosh4094]

Any time the bar is off check the oiler hole to make sure it's clean, you're there anyway.

[@tallanvor]

Great video! Now I not only know that new chains tend to go flying, but also WHY -and how to avoid it. Thanks a ton! (now I know why the one popped off chain won't fit into the bar anymore and how to go on fixing that as well)

[@andyroid5028]

*At **9:05**, you can almost see the 'nervous sweat' trickling out of those trees. LOL*

[@Ralf1erudd]

Great stuff. I had the crap build up with a pole saw attachment also a new chinee Bu Ko small saw. Both clogged up due to cutting small stuff as you said. I love intelligent women. I have one as a wife. She is my right hand man who is a left handed woman.

[@pedrowhack-a-mole6786]

Chainsaw chains must be broken in just like a new engine. The chain manufacturing process does not produce absolutely perfect parts, that would be absurdly expensive and unnecessary. The chain links and pins on a new chain must just be run together to lap their bearing surfaces to each other. You could say that this gives the chain its initial stretch.

[@stevephone4957]

They say you "can't teach an old dog new tricks ", well I'm 70 years old and that statement is absolute rubbish. You taught me something new today Bre and for that I thank you !!!! Oh, and a big hello to you from Australia !

[@stephenhair5501]

This Old Dog learned something new today. Thank you Bre!!

[@MidwesternNomad]

This was really helpful! It gave me a much better understanding of the dynamics involved, and it was fascinating to see a new chain cut. I run a Logosol chainsaw mill, so I go through lots and lots of chains. I run them very tight so I have few problems with the chain popping off. Occasionally at the end of a cant if I'm not careful the chain can get pinched and pop off. That's why I run it so tight. My brother does the logging, and he runs his chains very loose. They pop off all the time for him, but he insists that he is saving on wear on the bar and chain. After watching your video I'm wondering if there might be other considerations than wear for tightening up that chain a little.

[@kenbrown2808]

I have my own saw and I use saws provided and maintained by others. the others tend to run their chains loose. their standard policy is to have two saws handy so they can keep working when the first one throws the chain. they discard chains when the drivers are so beat up, they will no longer run in the bar. I discard chains when the teeth are completely worn away. I'm afraid I can't tell you what my bar replacement policy is. I've only had the saw for about 15 years, so the bar is still good. of course, I use premium bar oil, too.

[@fibreguy1971]

​@kenbrown2808 I also always take at least two saws. If the chain has issues it is just annoying if a saw fails when the tree is half cut and resting on the holding wood it can be life threatening.

[@kenbrown2808]

@@fibreguy1971 I'm guessing you also use your saw for more than a few minutes in a day. the "normal" use of the saws is 5 cuts. not 5 trees, 5 CUTS.

[@reiniernn9071]

Always good advice in these video's. About my experience with an electric chainsaw (battery powered). First: I NEVER use a chainsaw on wood less than 4 cm thick. (As the warning from Chickanic tells...the chain will rip it. I use for thid branches a special lopper for branches until 4 to 5 cm. Always take with your saw a lopper with you for taking off smaller branches. Next I noticed at my chansaw that the chain gets longer when jeating up during usage ... I tighten the chain up after a few cuts....after stopping for a longer time the chain will be to tight. When I stop sawing I loose the chain . Preventing that with cooling down the chain tightens to much.

[@timidater4803]

I used to use a die grinder to clean up the drivers after chain popped off. Thanks Bre for awesome videos!

[@melissasmess2773]

Yup, used a dremel to do that so I could continue the slaughter 😂 the bar was damaged, don’t remember what I did, probably cut it clear with a hacksaw blade, arborvitae with rocks in it, ugh😢

[@sidserv1978]

Growing up in a logging family in the Northwest, chainsaw maintenance was a family affair. My grandfather used to own a saw shop also. We always cleaned the drivers with a flat file. All chains were hand sharpened. My grandfather had a powered sharpener but it was custom built by him in the 50's and was designed for the heavy duty chains on the old Homelite saws that were the size of a small car engine these days. I still have one of his old homelites. Used it a couple years ago just to say I did. I was done after a few minutes.

[@grantdavis5992]

​@@sidserv1978 my brother still has his 650 Homelite he bought about 45 years ago. I did a video of him cutting down a Creek Fire killed fir which was over 55 inches at the butt. At the time the saw was 2/3 as old as he was, and he was 69. Sometimes you need the long sword, but it takes more to run it.

[@davidadams763]

@@melissasmess2773 300 miles north of nowhere in the ominica, chain jumps the bar on a willow, file the driver's pry open the track in the bar and back in business. Add more oil and good to go!

[@mikeconnolly9933]

I'm really happy to see someone who gives people tips like this and the safety tips that you give

[@benpoe4335]

Good video just to see how you installed the chain. Question: do you have a video that gives the pros and cons of making your own chains? I have a Stihl with a 20 inch bar, and in the past year the boxed premade chains have gone up almost $10 each in price. And how often do you recommend sharpening (before tossing)?

[@kenbrown2808]

how often or how deeply? I touch up my chain every tank of gas, and I generally rotate a chain out when the teeth are about to turn into triangles instead of trapezoids. - I keep the old chain as a throwaway in case I have to cut something I know will wreck it, like a power pole.

[@graemewhite5029]

We buy Oregon bulk chain and the cutters have a line on them to let you know when you've had your money's worth !

[@rider660r]

It's cheaper making your own. That's not including the tools she used. You can make chain with just a flat file,punch and a hammer.....about 30 yrs ago I learned how to do it and still do it this way today. Sharpen when it's dull... There is no magic number of tanks of fuel you used,how long it's been running,or how many trees you've cut. Sharpen it when it's dull. If you run your finger down the chain and it's not wanting to grab then it's getting or is dull.

[@supersportimpalass]

A single chain will cut a ton of wood before it needs to be replaced. Many chains have an angled mark on the cutter you can use as a guide and it also indicates the end life of the chain. I would recommend sharpening every couple of tanks. It usually only takes a few strokes with a file to touch them up rather than waiting until the chain is very dull. It really boils down to the type of wood and how dry it is as to how often the chain should be sharpened. I believe a chain will last longer with more frequent touch ups rather than using it until it won’t cut any more.

[@traviscarr6536]

Don’t worry about the price because Bidenomics is getting ready to cut your current chain prices in half. If you can keep the chain sharp then I’d use it till I couldn’t or the dentures are breaking off of it.

[@harfgud2go]

I just last week ran into the twice in about 10 minutes of use. I was clearing small brush of my camp road, about 1 1/2 miles long road. Mostly this year just small brush so I was using a Husqvarna weed eater with a saw blade. This was working great but after two summers the blade was getting quite worn down but I wanted to finish the job. With the last few strands of brush I just grabbed my Poulan chainsaw and it quickly threw the chain twice. I put it back on and did finish the job but now I know the reason for the chain coming off. Thanks for the video.