What to Do When Your Chainsaw Cuts Crooked

Your chainsaw should cut straight and true. If it starts to veer off course or makes crooked cuts, it's often a sign of underlying issues. A chainsaw sharpener may be needed, or you might need to replace the cutting teeth entirely.

Here’s what you can do if your power tool is cutting unevenly.

Common Causes of Crooked Chainsaw Cuts

There are several reasons why a chainsaw might start cutting crooked. The issue could be with the chain itself, the bar, or even how you're using the tool. Common problems include a dull or uneven chain, incorrect tension, worn top plates, or damaged cutting teeth.

Uneven Chain Sharpness or Dull Chain

The chain is the key component that does the actual cutting. If it's not sharpened evenly or becomes dull, the chainsaw will not make straight cuts. This is especially true when working with hard wood or over time as the chain wears down.

Investing in a high-quality chain, such as a Stihl model, can help reduce the frequency of sharpening and improve performance over time.

Incorrect Chain Tension

Chain tension plays a crucial role in how well the saw performs. Too tight, and the chain can become damaged or break. Too loose, and it risks coming off the bar, which can be extremely dangerous.

Adjusting the tension is a simple task that takes just a few minutes and can significantly improve the performance of your chainsaw.

Uneven Top Plates

The top plate of the chain is the part that actually cuts through the material. If these are uneven or worn, it can cause the saw to cut in an inconsistent or crooked way.

Worn Out Chainsaw Bar

A damaged or worn chainsaw bar can greatly affect the performance of the chain. It’s responsible for guiding and supporting the chain as it moves. If the bar is not in good condition, it can lead to uneven cuts and potential safety hazards.

Damaged Cutting Teeth

Even if you know how to sharpen a chainsaw chain, it’s possible that some of the cutting teeth have been damaged. This can happen from accidentally hitting stones, dirt, or other hard objects while cutting.

Improper Depth Gauge

The depth gauge helps control how deep the chain cuts into the wood. If it's not set correctly, it can result in uneven or inconsistent cuts. Adjusting the depth gauge is an important step in maintaining the performance of your chainsaw.

How to Sharpen Your Chainsaw Chain Like a Pro

If your chainsaw isn't cutting straight, there are steps you can take to fix it. Here's how to sharpen your chainsaw properly and effectively.

Step 1: Clean the Chain

Before you begin sharpening, it's essential to clean the chain thoroughly. Any dirt, oil, or debris on the chain can interfere with the sharpening process and make it harder to achieve a consistent edge.

Soak the chain in a mixture of water and ammonia to remove grease and residue. Rinse it well and dry it before proceeding.

Step 2: Adjust Chain Tension

Once the chain is clean, adjust the tension so it's slightly loose but still secure on the guide bar. This ensures smooth movement without excessive strain on the chain.

Use the tensioning screw located on the side of the chainsaw to fine-tune the tightness.

Step 3: Start with the Shortest Cutter

Begin by sharpening the shortest cutter on the chain. This ensures all teeth are the same length. You can always shorten longer teeth, but you can’t make a short one longer.

Mark the first tooth you sharpen to keep track of your progress.

Step 4: File at the Correct Angle

Hold the file at the correct angle as specified by the manufacturer. This helps maintain the original shape and effectiveness of the cutting teeth.

File each tooth five to six times, then move to the next one along the chain.

Step 5: Finish with the Opposite Side

After sharpening one side, reverse the chainsaw and file the remaining teeth. Make sure you’re filing within the notch of the blade, not on the outside.

Step 6: Check the Depth Gauges

Finally, check the depth gauges to ensure they are shorter than the adjacent cutters. If they extend beyond the chain, it can prevent proper cutting and must be filed down to the correct level.

Find Quality Chainsaw Sharpeners at Jono & Johno

A chainsaw that cuts in a zigzag pattern is not only inefficient but also dangerous. Using a quality chainsaw sharpener is one of the best ways to restore its performance and ensure it cuts straight and true. Don’t forget to maintain other parts of your equipment for optimal results.

Jono & Johno offers a wide range of chainsaw tools, including sharpeners, replacement chains, and safety gear. Whether you're a professional or a DIY enthusiast, we have everything you need to keep your chainsaw in top condition.

Visit our website to explore our full inventory, or reach out to us with any questions. We're here to help you stay safe and productive in your work.

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