3 Tips for a Smooth Chainsaw Chain Swap

Confirm the chain’s pitch and gauge match your bar If the numbers on the box don’t line up with the old chain, stop. Forcing a mismatched chain will bend drive links or gouge the bar.

Loosen the tension adjuster fully before fitting the chain The chain should sit loose enough that you can slide the drive links into the bar groove by hand. If it doesn’t slide in easily, the tension is still too tight or you have the wrong chain.

Work from the top of the bar down, starting at the nose Seat the drive links in the groove at the nose, then pull the rest around the sprocket at the rear. Spin the chain by hand after it’s on to ensure it tracks straight, then tighten to the right tension.