How to Use Chainsaw Depth Gauges

by DoItYourself Staff

what you'll need

Sharpening file
Flat file
Lubrication
A chainsaw depth gauge guide
Grinding wheel

Whenever your chainsaw begins to lose it's cutting power and you find that it takes more effort to cut, or the motor is having to work harder, it's probably time to sharpen the saw. Sharpening the tool by hand isn't hard to do, but it's important that you have the right tools and know how to do it. When you sharpen a chainsaw the teeth need to be sharpened, but did you know that you must also file the depth gauges every time?

One of the best precautions you can take with your chainsaw is to keep it sharpened and well maintained. The first time your saw needs sharpening it's a good idea to have it done professionally. You should observe the process carefully so that when it comes time, you know what you are doing. Ask questions if you don't understand something or find a step confusing.

Step 1- Check the Lubrication

It is important to check the lubrication on your chainsaw every time you sharpen it. There is a chain sprocket which is located on the front of the bar. Use a small grease applicator to apply a small amount of grease to the fitting on the front of the sprocket.

Step 2 - Slide the Depth Guage

As a starting point, slide the depth guage carefully over your saw.

Step 3 - Sharpen the Saw

Using the appropriate size file, sharpen the teeth of the chain saw. Since every other tooth cuts a different direction, it is best to go around the chain sharpening every other one, and then to turn the chain around and sharpen the opposite teeth. You can sharpen the sawn in one of two ways. First, utilize a flat file and file down any protruding angles or pieces over the depth gauge tool. Second, using a grinding wheel, grind the depth gauge to a point where you are satisfied with the level.

Step 4 - Adjust the Gauge

Adjustments must occur after you have sharpened the saw two to three times in sucession. Adjustments are necessary as you will ensure further accuracy of your equipment. In the adjustment, the distance between the top plate and the top of the depth guage are measured and accurately set. A great adjusted chain saw insures good cutting results.

Step 5 - Take Careful Measurements

Using a chain saw checking tool, remeasure the distance between the top plate and the top most part of the depth guage. As you proceed through checking the distance, also check the pitch of the chains on your saw and re-measure the tool length. Finally, at the same time check the drive length and last, re-check the depth guage. Making these tiny checks, will help to insure sure your chain saw is working correctly. You may avoid un-necessary accidents by properly performing regular maintenance on your chain saw.