How To Take Apart A Chain Saw

If you own a chain saw, you may need to take it apart from time to time for maintenance and repairs. The chain itself will need to be replaced after extended use and the two-stroke cycle engine may need maintenance or repair. Knowing how to take the chain saw apart is the first step to completing these repairs.

Step 1: Prepare the Area  

Work indoors where you can avoid the elements and distractions found outside. Always place a blanket or large cloth on a flat surface area to protect the chain saw as well as the surface.

Step 2: Remove Sprocket or Engine Cover

Remove the protective engine cover by unscrewing the cover screws in each corner. You will also need to unscrew the tension control knob, or adjusting wheel, to remove the cover on many models.

Step 3: Remove the Chain Bar

After removing the adjusting wheel, carefully remove the chain bar. Make sure you are wearing protective gloves since the cutting chain is very sharp and could cause great harm. Be careful when removing the chain from the engine sprocket. It will now be loose and can fall off the bar easily.

Step 4: Remove the Chain

Carefully lift the chain from the groove where it sits along the chain bar.

Step 5: Three Components

The chainsaw is now separated into three components – the chain bar, the chain and the engine compartment.

Step 6: Engine Compartment

The chain saw engine contains several parts that can be removed and replaced if necessary including:

• Chain Catcher

This is a guard designed to keep the chain saw operator safe in case a chain breaks or becomes derailed.

• Fly Wheel and Clutch

Controls the engine's speed, and keeps it cool when operating.

• Decompression Valve

The decompression valve releases compression, allowing the saw to start easily.

• Muffler

Is a device used to reduce the heat and operating noise.

• Chain Brake

This component is designed to prevent a kickback from injuring an operator. A chain brake was mandated by law in 1995 to be included on all chain saws.

• Throttle

The throttle controls how fast a chain saw operates by controlling the amount of fuel dispensed. It also controls the chain movement which will stop when the throttle is released.

• Ant-Vibration Handle

The United States Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) recommends installation of an anti-vibration handles system to reduce the stress accompanying handling a chain saw during operation.

• Hand Guard

A hand guard is a heavy-duty plastic guard that is placed between the handle and the chain bar that protects an operator in the event of a kickback while using the chain saw.