Regardless of whether it’s before you use your chainsaw, while you are working with your chainsaw or after you finished you work, inspection and maintenance are critical to not only the chainsaw’s mechanical integrity but also your chainsaw’s ability to function properly and safely. Most owners’ manuals will have a section with a maintenance chart detailing the types of maintenance you should perform and at what intervals.

In your manual, the section will cover the basic inspection and maintenance that you must perform to keep your chainsaw in top shape. If you are unable to perform any of the functions for any reason, return your chainsaw to any authorized dealer to have your inspection and maintenance performed before you use your chainsaw.

Performing an inspection and performing proper maintenance of your chainsaw and its components prior to using your saw will result in a more productive and safer cutting experience.

Always make sure that you have turned off the engine, the chain is stopped and the muffler is cooled before refueling, making adjustments, performing maintenance and repairs, changing the saw chain or cleaning the saw and never attempt any maintenance or repair work not described in your owner’s manual. Have those items taken care of by your authorized dealer.

First check the fasteners on your chainsaw, making sure they are snug. Retighten any loose fasteners and replace any that may be missing or damaged.

Check the AV system and that all of the buffers are in place and functioning properly. Replace damaged, broken or excessively worn buffers immediately. They may result in a loss of control of your chainsaw.

A sponginess in the feel of your chainsaw, increased vibration or noticeable bottoming during normal operation may indicate damage, breakage or excessive wear and if replacement is necessary, always replace the buffers in sets.

Check your air filter often. There are several different types and designs of air filters and if yours is dirty, clean the filter according to the manufacturers directions in the owners’ manual or replace the filter if necessary. Most filters can be cleaned temporarily by simply tapping them on the log, for instance, releasing the heavier particles that have built up on the filter.

A tip when accessing your air filter: always close the choke on your carburetor before removing the air filter. This will block sawdust and other dirt from accidentally falling into the throat of the carburetor.

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