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Frequently Asked Questions: Chainsaws

Find the answers to some of the common questions and queries about McCulloch chainsaws.

How do I lubricate the bar and chain on my chainsaw?

Chainsaws from McCulloch are self-lubricating. Use only Universal powered by McCulloch bar and chain oil. This oil has been specially developed to retain its viscosity at the extreme temperatures generated by the chain and bar. If the bar is fitted with a nose roller, this should also be lubricated regularly.

Why does my chainsaw chain pull or cut to one side?

Conditions that could cause a chainsaw chain to cut crooked are:

1. Dull cutters damaged by rocks or other hard objects. It's important to remove all nearby objects before using a chainsaw.
2. Different depth gauge settings from left to right. Keep all depth gauge settings equal from left to right.
3. Different top-plate angles from left to right. It's important to keep all top plates equal length.
4. A worn guide bar. A badly worn guide bar will definitely cause a chain to cut to one side.

My chainsaw starts and then dies what is wrong?

This could be a number of things and is most likely fuel or storage related.

Over a short period of time, fuel will become stale. If the unit is stored with stale gasoline, the system will become clogged or restricted. Fuel related failures are not warranty.

This would need to be serviced by a local Authorised service center.

When should I replace the chain for my chainsaw?

The chain should be replaced if :

1. The drive links are burred and do not fit into the bar correctly.
2. If any of the cutter teeth or drive links are broken or bent.
3. If the chain has been sharpened over two thirds the length of the chain.

What maintenance should I perform on my chainsaw?

Daily maintenance Weekly maintenance Monthly maintenance
Clean the outside of the machine. On chain saws without a catalytic converter, check the cooling system weekly. Check the brake band on the chain brake for wear. Replace when less than 0.024 inch (0.6 mm) remains at the most worn point.
Check that the components of the throttle control work safely (throttle lockout and throttle control). Check the starter, starter cord and return spring. Check the clutch centre, clutch drum and clutch spring for wear.
Clean the chain brake and check that it operates safely. Make sure that the chain catcher is undamaged, and replace it if necessary with an aluminium chain catcher (is available as spare part). Check that the vibration damping elements are not damaged. Clean the spark plug. Check that the electrode gap is 0.020 inch (0.5 mm).
The bar should be turned daily for more even wear. Check the lubrication hole in the bar, to be sure it is not clogged. Clean the bar groove. If the bar has a sprocket tip, this should be lubricated. Lubricate the clutch drum bearing. Clean the outside of the carburetor.
Check that the bar and chain are getting sufficient oil. File off any burrs from the edges of the bar. Check fuel hose for cracks or other damage. Change if necessary.
Check the saw chain with regard to visible cracks in the rivets and links, whether the saw chain is stiff or whether the rivets and links are abnormally worn. Replace if necessary. Clean or replace the spark arrestor screen on the muffler. Empty the fuel tank and clean the inside.
Sharpen the chain and check its tension and condition. Check the drive sprocket for excessive wear and replace if necessary. Clean the Carburettor compartment. Empty the oil tank and clean the inside.
Clean the starter units air intake. Clean the air filter. Replace if necessary. Check all cables and connections.

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