22
MAINTAINING THE SAW CHAIN
For safe, efficient operation, the saw chain must be maintained properly.
The saw chain will wear with use, causing the chain to stretch. This
is normal. When it is no longer possible to obtain a correct chain-
tension adjustment, the saw chain will need to be repaired by an
authorized service center or replaced. Refer to Replacing the Guide
Bar and Saw Chain.
Always keep the saw chain sharp. During operation, look for the
following indicators of a dull saw chain:
• Wood chips are small and powdery.
• The saw chain must be forced through the wood.
• The saw chain cuts to one side.
If any of these conditions exist, sharpen or replace the saw chain.
Refer to Replacing the Guide Bar and Saw Chain.
NOTE: If you do not fully understand the process for properly
sharpening a saw chain, have the saw chain sharpened by an
authorized service center or replace the saw chain.
WARNING:
The saw chain is very sharp. Always wear
heavy-duty protective gloves when handling or performing
maintenance on the saw chain.
WARNING:
An improperly sharpened saw chain
increases the chance of kickback. Failure to replace or
properly maintain the saw chain can cause serious injury.
REPLACING THE GUIDE BAR AND SAW CHAIN
When replacing the guide bar and saw chain, only use the
replacement parts specified by the manufacturer or their
equivalents. Refer to Replacement Parts. Use of any unauthorized
parts or accessories could lead to serious injury to the operator or
damage to the unit and will VOID the warranty.
Always use a replacement saw chain designated as “low-kickback”
or a saw chain that meets the low-kickback performance
requirements. A standard saw chain (a chain that does not have the
kickback-reducing guard links) should only be used by an
experienced professional pole saw operator.
WARNING:
Always use a low-kickback saw chain,
which significantly reduces the danger of kickback. Low-
kickback saw chain does not completely eliminate
kickback. A low-kickback or “safety chain,” should never
be regarded as total protection against injury.
