How To Store A Chainsaw So It Doesn’t Leak Oil

Chainsaws might leak oil due to several reasons. Some are due to mistakes that are made while oiling the tool, while others might be maintenance issues. 

It is important not to overfill the oil reservoir of the saw as it might cause oil to leak out through the fill port. Mechanical problems can also be a significant reason for oil leakage. Hence, the question still prevails: How to store a chainsaw, so it doesn't leak oil? Keep reading to find out. 

Storing A Chainsaw Without It Leaking Oil 

It is not uncommon for chainsaws to drip some oil. What might appear to be an oil leak is simply  the chain releasing oil to maintain its high speed. And after it is stale, it drips from the guide bar and the saw body. 

Now, the chain and bar oil stored in the oil tank of the saw remains fitted with a valve that draws air inwards while pumping the oil out. Its primary function is to maintain a slight positive pressure in the tank so that oil is passed onto the chain once it starts moving, preventing the saw blade from wearing out soon. 

But there are a few tricks to prevent this oil from leaking: 

1. Don’t Overfill The Tank 

When storing chainsaws, you should always ensure that its oil tank isn’t full. You should top it only before its use, reducing the risk of oil seepage due to changing temperature. And if you wish to always maintain a filled oil tank, just make sure you are not overfilling it. I have kept a maximum level mark on my saw to ensure the oil remains lower than that. 

Another reason for oil leakage is an issue with the fill port plug itself. So, always ensure that the fill plug is tightened every time oil is topped off. 

2. Check For Mechanical Problems 

Mechanical problems in the saw also result in oil seeping from the tool when used or stored. You should conduct a thorough check into the machine failures that lead to oil leakage. 

3. Storing Different Models 

Husqvarna chainsaws are expected to leak small amounts of oil after the first few days of use. The company suggests you clean debris or sawdust from inside if it persists. Just open the showcase and clean the dirt inside it. Debris can absorb oil sitting inside the tool during its use and drips the same oil when kept in storage. 

Similarly, Craftsman chainsaws might leak oil due to high pressure built in oil tanks during use. With cooling, there will be increased pressure on your saw, leading to its leakage. In this case, it will be viable if the pressure is released after use. 

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