Having a chainsaw makes big garden projects simple. Having all the right chainsaw accessories will keep your chainsaw performing at its best and ensure your safety with every use. From bars to safety gear, a guide to all your chainsaw needs can help you when shopping for parts.
Chainsaw bars and chains
The guide bar is a long rounded bar made of wear resistant alloy steel. The bar has edged grooves to guide the car across the surface it cuts. They come in lengths from 16 to 36 inches depending on the task of the saw.
The cutting chain resembles that of a bicycle chain. Each segment has small teeth called cutters. They are extremely sharp and should never be handled without gloves.
The cutting chains offer different pitches and calibers. The filing of the depth gauges is essential to operating the saw. They guide the cutters as to the depth of cut.
Accessories for sharpening and filing chainsaws
Sharpening and filing accessories are essential to maintain the life of your saw. Sharpening your chainsaw regularly will provide the best cuts and prevent injury.
Purchasing a clam shell file kit is a great investment. Offers everything you need for your chainsaw sharpening needs:
- file identifiers
- guide files
- round files
- Flat files for depth
You’ll also want a depth gauge guide for when you file your gauge. Filing down a gauge is easy and should be done every three or four sharpenings.
Safety Chainsaw Accessories
Proper safety should always come first when using a chainsaw. Buying the essential safety accessories will help you avoid serious accidents. Items to consider buying for safety include:
- Safety helmet or goggles system
- hearing protection
- Gloves
- body kit
If you choose not to purchase body gear, it’s important to wear tight-fitting clothing while working with a chainsaw.
Other chainsaw accessories
A well-maintained chainsaw can last a lifetime. To keep your chainsaw running, you may need to replace parts periodically. These parts include:
- Pinions
- Clutch
- Air filter
- muffling
Always read the operator’s manual for your chain saw for specific accessory requirements. Your operations manual also explains how to replace chain saw parts. Never repair or replace chain saw parts without wearing safety equipment. Always make sure to use the correct parts for your model of chainsaw.
By following these tips, your chainsaw will not only be more efficient and safer, but it will give you many years of trouble-free operation for all your projects.