When your chainsaw isn't cutting right, the problem usually comes down to one of a handful of well-known issues with the chain, bar, or drive system. This guide helps you diagnose and fix the most common chainsaw chain and bar problems, without an expensive trip to a dealer.

Problem: The Saw Is Cutting but Pulling to One Side

Cause and Solution

Uneven tooth lengths, this is the most common cause. When one side of the chain has shorter cutters than the other (from uneven filing), the saw pulls toward the shorter side. Solution: re-sharpen the chain, ensuring exactly the same number of file strokes and pressure on every tooth. Keeping your chain sharp is critical, see our range of Chainsaw Sharpening Wheels.

Bar wear on one side, if the bar groove has worn unevenly, the chain will cant to one side. Dress the bar rails with a flat file or replace the bar.

Bent bar, a bar that has been twisted or bent (from pinching, or from dropping the saw) causes lateral cutting problems. Check the bar with a straight edge and replace if bent.

Problem: The Chain Comes Off the Bar

Cause and Solution

Chain is too loose, the most common cause. Re-tension the chain correctly. Check tension after every few cuts on a new chain until it fully seats.

Bar nose sprocket is worn, a worn or seized nose sprocket creates drag that pulls the chain off under load. Replace the sprocket tip.

Chain is stretched beyond usable limits, all chains stretch with use. A chain that can no longer be tensioned correctly needs to be replaced.

Replacing a worn chain? Our Stihl chainsaw chain size guide and Husqvarna chainsaw chain size guide list the exact pitch, gauge and drive links for every model.

Chainsaw Bar & Chain Combos | Farm & Acre Co

 

Problem: The Bar Overheating or Smoking

Cause and Solution

Bar oil isn't reaching the bar, check oil level, clear oil ports on bar and saw body, and confirm the oiler is functioning. A chain running dry will smoke and destroy the bar in minutes.

Chain is too tight, an over-tensioned chain overloads the nose bearing and creates excessive heat. Check and correct tension.

Blocked bar groove, compacted sawdust in the groove creates friction. Clean the groove thoroughly.

Problem: The Chain Dulls Very Quickly

Cause and Solution

Cutting contaminated wood, timber near the ground, old fence timber, or reclaimed wood often contains embedded soil, sand, grit, or metal that destroys cutting edges almost immediately. Switch to a carbide-tipped chain for this type of work.

Hitting rock or soil, even a momentary contact with soil or stone will dull or chip a standard steel chain. Lift the bar slightly at the start and end of each cut to avoid ground contact.

Incorrect filing angle, if the relief angle on the tooth is incorrect (too flat or too steep), the edge won't hold. Review your file angle and re-sharpen.

Problem: The Saw Vibrates Excessively

Cause and Solution

Loose chain, check tension first

Worn or damaged sprocket, the drive sprocket wears over time. A worn sprocket causes uneven chain movement and vibration. Inspect and replace if worn.

Bent or damaged drive link, a bent drive link creates a 'wobble' as it passes around the bar. Inspect the chain closely, if you find a damaged link, the chain should be replaced.

Bar damage, a worn or damaged groove allows the chain to move laterally, causing vibration.

Problem: Chain Stretches Quickly

Cause and Solution

Insufficient lubrication, if bar oil isn't reaching the chain properly, the friction causes heat, which accelerates wear and stretching. Confirm oiler function.

Worn sprocket, a worn drive sprocket has incorrect tooth geometry that causes uneven chain loading and accelerated stretching. Replace the sprocket.

Low-quality chain, not all chains are made to the same standards. Farm & Acre Co only stocks chains built to quality standards suited to Australian farm conditions.

When to Replace vs When to Repair

📞 Chain fitment advice: 0431 183 421, we'll help you find the right chain for your saw.