One of the most frustrating things to come across while working with a chainsaw has to be a kink or tangle in the blade.
This common occurrence might be incredibly confusing for someone who isn’t experienced with chainsaws. And, if not handled properly, the sharp edges of the blade can even hurt you.
Worry not, as I have come up with a guide to help you learn how to unkink a chainsaw chain. So, let’s get started!
Some of you may come across a kinked or tangled chainsaw chain as soon as you take it out of the packaging. It may seem like a messy affair, and if you aren’t aware of the right ways to untangle the chain, the process can take hours.
On top of that, people often get frustrated and pull the chain with force, which can give them cuts. So, remember that you need to be as calm as possible while finishing the task as it will hardly require a few seconds to get the chain free from knots.
Step 1: Lay The Chain Flat
Firstly, you need to place the chain on a flat table. Don’t try to shake too much, or it may get even more tangled. Then, find two opposite kinks or loops on the chain, and pull the chain apart to lay it flat on the table. This would usually get most of the chain kink-free, leaving some stubborn loops.
Try to pull the loops as far as possible and create a circle with the chain. Ideally, this would leave you with two loops at the opposite ends and one big loop in the middle.
Step 2: Raise The Chain
Now, it’s time to raise the chain while holding the two smaller loops in your hands while the bigger loop hangs down. Next, you have to raise the bottom of the chain to align it with the two smaller loops. Because of the stiff material, the lower part of the chain should straighten out and slip through the other two loops. And, once you let it hang down again, the tangles should be gone.
Another way to untangle the chain is to make the two smaller loops mirror each other and raise one loop over another to eliminate the kinks.
Step 3: Keep On Repeating With Two Loops
If your chain is old, it might have smaller loops. Try to be patient and use two loops to untangle the chain. The process might seem a bit complicated initially, but you’ll get the hang of it over time.
Apart from new chains, a typical reason for getting kinks is improper lubrication. So, before you start untangling the chainsaw chain, make sure to lubricate it thoroughly. Also, it’s essential to use safety gear like chainsaw gloves and protective goggles to keep yourself safe.
That’s everything I had to tell you about unkinking a chainsaw chain. Now, it may take you a bit more time to remove all the knots and kinks if the chain is old or long. But, keep at it, and it will be done in a few minutes.
Also, don’t forget to keep yourself safe while working with power tools. I hope that my guide helps you simplify the task of unkinking chainsaw chains.
Until then, goodbye and take care!