What Are the Different Parts of a Chainsaw? Detailed Guide

What Are the Different Parts of a Chainsaw? Takes the guesswork out of choosing the most suitable chainsaw for your needs. This comprehensive guide breaks down each part of a chainsaw and explains what each one does.

You’ll learn about the engine, the bar, the chain, and more. After reading this guide, you’ll be able to use your chainsaw safely and effectively.

What Are the Different Parts of a Chainsaw?

The chainsaw is composed of many different parts to function properly. Some of the main parts include the bar, chain, engine, clutch, and guide all of which serve a specific purpose in the function of the chainsaw let’s know about them:

Chain

For the chainsaw to cut through wood, it needs a sharp chain that is spinning quickly. The chain is typically held in place by two guide bars that run parallel to each other along either side of the blade.

Bar

The bar is the metal piece that turns the chain around. It is mounted on the chainsaw and extends out from the body of the saw. it works by the chain spinning around it at high speeds and cutting through whatever it comes into contact with.

Engine

The engine is responsible for providing power to the chainsaw. It is typically a gas-powered engine, but there are also electric chainsaws available.

Engines, either two-stroke or four-stroke, that power a saw blade rotating at high speed, usually about 10–20 meters per second (36,000–72,000 ft/min). The saw blade is an angled disc with duller teeth on the inside edge closest to the engine.

Clutch

The clutch is a device that helps to engage and disengage the chain from the rotating sprocket. This is significant because it helps to prevent the chain from becoming overloaded and damaging the saw.

Guide

The guide is the metal piece that the chain runs along. It helps to keep the chain in place and prevent it from coming off of the bar.

Sprocket Nose

The sprocket nose is the part of the chainsaw that the chain wraps around. It is located at the end of the bar and has a series of teeth that help to grab onto the chain and keep it in place.

Pull Start

The pull start is a cord that is used to start the chainsaw. It is typically located near the handle of the saw.

There are also other parts on a chainsaw that help with its overall function and safety. These parts include the throttle, brake, and Chain Catcher.

Throttle

The throttle is a lever that is used to control the speed of the chainsaw. It is typically located near the handle of the saw.

Chain Brake/Hand Guard

The chain brake is a safety feature that is designed to stop the chain from spinning if it becomes overloaded. It is typically located near the front of the chainsaw, near the bar. It is operated by a lever or a switch, and when engaged, it will cause the chain to stop rotating.

This can be helpful in several situations, such as when the chainsaw is jammed or when the operator needs to stop the chain for some other reason.

The chain brake is an essential safety feature on a chainsaw, and it is helpful to understand how it works. If the chain brake is not used properly, it can result in serious injury or even death.

Therefore, it is critical to read the operator’s manual for your particular chainsaw before operating it and to follow all safety instructions carefully.

Chain Catcher

The chain catcher is a device that is designed to catch the chainsaw chain if it comes off of the bar. This can help to prevent serious injury.

Other parts of the chainsaw

Air Filter

The air filter helps to keep the engine of the chainsaw clean. It is typically located near the carburetor.

Spark Plug

The spark plug is a device that helps to ignite the fuel in the engine of the chainsaw. It is typically located near the carburetor.

Pull Start Recoil

The pull start recoil is a cord that is used to start the chainsaw. It is located near the handle of the saw.

Choke Lever

It is used to control the amount of air that enters the engine. It is typically located near the carburetor.

Oil Tank Assembly

The oil tank assembly is a device that helps to lubricate the chain and bar of the chainsaw. It is typically located near the handle of the saw.

Bar Clamp

The bar clamp is a device that is used to hold the bar in place. It is located near the front of the chainsaw.

Front Handle

The front handle is used to help control the chainsaw. It is located near the front of the saw.

Rear Handle

A chainsaw’s rear handle is used to control it. The saw’s blade is located near the back.

Safety Switch

The safety switch is a mechanism that shuts off the chainsaw if it is accidentally pressed. It is typically located near the handle of the saw.

Chain Tensioner

The Cain tensioner is located near the front of the chainsaw and is used to keep the chain tight against the bar.

Scabbard

The scabbard is a sheath that is used to cover the chain and bar when the chainsaw is not in use. It is typically located near the back of the saw.

Muffler / Exhaust

It is usually located at the back of the chainsaw, which helps to reduce the noise that the chainsaw makes.

Air Filter Cover

The air filter cover helps to keep the air filter clean which is located near the carburetor.

Spark Arrestor

The spark arrestor is located near the muffler and helps to prevent sparks from coming out of the exhaust.

Engine Cover

In most cases, located near the back of the saw, the engine cover keeps the engine clean.

Clutch Drum

The clutch drum is a feature that helps to engage the chain, located near the front of the chainsaw.

Flywheel

The flywheel helps keep the engine running smoothly. A saw’s blade is usually located near the back.

Piston / Cylinder

The piston and cylinder are parts of the engine that help to compress the air and fuel mixture. They are one of the most common places to find them, generally in the back of the saw.

Crankshaft

The crankshaft is a part of the engine that helps to convert the energy from the piston into mechanical energy. It is also located near the back of the saw.

These are just some of the parts that make up a chainsaw. For the saw to function properly, all of these parts must be in pristine working condition. If one of the parts is damaged or not functioning properly, it can cause the chainsaw to malfunction.

FAQs

What is the best way to clean a chainsaw?

The correct way to clean a chainsaw is to use a mild soap and water solution. You can also use a commercial cleaner specifically designed for cleaning chainsaws.

How often should I sharpen my chainsaw?

The frequency of sharpening will depend on how often you use the saw. However, it is generally recommended that you sharpen the chain at least once per month.

What are some of the most common problems with chainsaws?

Incorrect lubrication, dull chains, and dirty filters are some of the most common chainsaw problems. These problems can all be avoided by following the proper maintenance procedures for your saw.

What is the best way to store a chainsaw?

The best way to store a chainsaw is to keep it in a dry, clean, and cool place. You should also make sure that the saw is properly lubricated before storing it.

Final Thoughts

As you can see, many different parts make up a chainsaw. Each part plays an instrumental role in the function of the saw. Now you know the functionality of each chainsaw part, how to clean it, store it, and sharpen it.

If you have any questions, please feel free to ask in the comments section below. Also, check out our more informative saws related articles on our website.