Chainsaws come equipped with a chain brake which, when engaged, is a safety mechanism that prevents movement of the saw’s chain. You should always check your chain brake to make sure it’s functioning correctly and that it properly engages and disengages.
Your chain brake is subject to wear each time it’s engaged, and the amount of wear depends on the usage, the conditions in which the machine is use, etc. Excessive wear reduces the efficiency of the chain brake, eventually making it inoperable. Let our experts explain how to inspect a chainsaw chain brake and the importance of this procedure.
The chainsaw chain brake has two purposes. It reduces the risk of injury under kickback conditions. Kickback can occur when the moving chain at the nose or tip of the guide bar hits an object, or when the wood closes in and pinches the chain in the cut. Tip or bar nose contact can cause a lightning-fast reverse reaction, kicking the guide bar up and back toward the operator. Additionally, the chain brake is used to secure the chain when changing positions, moving between cuts, and starting a cold saw.
Before operating your chainsaw, read your owner’s manual. It covers important information that is specific to your chainsaw model. In addition to your own inspection, you should have your local dealer inspect your chain brake according to the scheduled maintenance in your owner’s manual.
When the front handguard is in the forward position, the chain brake is engaged. When the front handguard is in the rearward position, the chain brake is disengaged.
To inspect a chainsaw chain brake, with the engine running idle, release the chain brake. Accelerate the engine to full throttle for no more than 3 seconds to avoid premature wear to the braking system or harm to the engine. Engage the chain brake by moving your left wrist forward while gripping the handle. This should immediately cause the chain to stop rotating.
If the chain brake does not function properly, take your chainsaw to your local dealer for the necessary repairs before operating the machine again.
You May Also Enjoy These Articles:
18 Chainsaw Terms Every Homeowner Should Know
How to Replace the Chain on a Chainsaw
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Why Weingartz?
Weingartz, family owned and operated, began in 1945 as a farm supply store for local Michigan families. In the 1970s, we began to focus exclusively on outdoor power equipment. Over time, we morphed into the “power equipment superstore” that now defines all of our locations. The staff and experts at Weingartz work diligently to provide the best service possible and give honest and helpful advice to each and every customer.
Weingartz also sells parts for all outdoor power equipment at https://weingartz.com/parts-lookup.
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