5 Rules for Breaking In a New Chainsaw

Avoid prolonged idling Letting the saw idle for more than a few seconds prevents the piston rings from seating properly against the cylinder walls. The rings need pressure from cutting to seat correctly.

Vary the RPMs constantly Run the saw under varying loads for the first 3-5 tanks of fuel. Do not just rev it in the air — actual cutting is required.

Use a slightly richer fuel mix If your saw has adjustable carburetor screws, run the mix a bit richer. Lean mixtures run hot and can damage a fresh engine.

Let the saw cool fully between tanks Heat cycling helps engine parts get acquainted without warping. Do not rush through tanks back-to-back.

Recheck chain tension and air filter after break-in Once you finish the first few tanks, inspect both before using the saw normally. Taking the hour to break it in properly pays off.