ADJUSTING THE CHAIN TENSION
CAUTION:
The guide bar, saw chain, and saw bearings
will wear more rapidly if the saw chain is not properly
tensioned. Maintaining proper chain tension will improve
cutting performance and prolong the life of the saw chain.
WARNING:
To prevent serious injury, never touch the
saw chain or adjust the chain tension while the unit is
running. Always turn the unit off and remove the battery to
prevent the unit from starting accidentally.
WARNING:
The saw chain is very sharp. Always wear
heavy-duty protective gloves when handling or performing
maintenance on the saw chain.
Check the chain tension before and during operation. The saw chain
will expand as it heats up during operation. Adjust the chain tension
whenever the flats on the saw chain hang out of the bar groove (Fig.
18 and Fig. 22).
NOTE: A new saw chain tends to stretch and will need readjustment
after as few as five (5) cuts. This is normal during the break-in
period. The interval between future adjustments will lengthen
quickly.
1. Turn the bar knob counterclockwise to slightly loosen the bar
cover (Fig. 19). DO NOT remove the bar cover.
2. Hold the guide bar tip up (Fig. 20) and turn the chain-tensioning
ring to adjust the tension (Fig. 21).
• Turn the chain-tensioning ring clockwise to tighten the saw chain.
• Turn the chain-tensioning ring counterclockwise to loosen the
saw chain.
The saw chain should fit snuggly against the underside of the
guide bar. There should be no sag (Fig. 22).
3. Continue to hold the guide bar tip up (Fig. 20). Turn the bar knob
clockwise to securely tighten the bar cover (Fig. 19).
CAUTION:
If the saw chain was tensioned while warm, it
may become too tight when cooled. Loosen the chain
tension after operation and check the chain tension before
the next use.
Tighten
Chain-Tensioning Ring
Loosen
Fig. 21
Flats
Bar Cover
Tighten
Correct Tension
Incorrect Tension
22
Drive Links
Guide Bar
Fig. 18
Bar Knob
Loosen
Fig. 19
Fig. 20
Fig. 22