People are often looking for the best ways to maintain their useful tools so that they can use them in the long run.
So, If you are here looking for whether can you pressure wash your chainsaw or not? Then, YES! you surely can do that.
Though some proficient users might not suggest pressure washing yet it is acceptable and even good if done with special care. I am not saying to wash it daily but yes cleaning the chainsaw daily is highly recommended.
In this article, I will provide you with the necessary information that you need to know. Therefore, be with me and learn how you can pressure wash a chainsaw.
Can You Pressure Wash a Chainsaw? A Guide
Yes, you can pressure wash your chainsaw but for that, you really need to be careful. As you know, a chainsaw has a wiring system that might get disturbed if contact with water. In this regard, you should follow the guidelines properly.
A chainsaw is a tool that is exposed to wood, mud, and even ice as well. It is because a chainsaw is used for multiple purposes. In carrying out all these tasks, a lot of debris, waste, and dust is accommodated in the parts.
This situation gets worse when this waste comes in contact with oil and gets piled up there. In such cases, you should pressure wash your chainsaw to clean it and experience a better working experience with your gas saw.
How to Pressure Wash a Chainsaw in Simple and Easy Steps?
Now that I have told you that pressure washing chainsaws with water is of great importance, let me tell you how to do that.
First, we will start with the materials that you will need for washing. Then, I will guide you in simple steps to the process of pressure washing a chainsaw. Finally, I will also discuss the things that you must avoid while washing your chainsaw.
What is Required for Pressure Washing a Chainsaw?
Before getting started, gather all the required tools so that you would not get disturbed during working. The tools that you would require for cleaning are;
- Bar Groove Cleaner,
- Wire Brush,
- Grease gun,
- Universal Cleaner,
- WD40 Spray,
- Air Compressor,
- Power Washer,
- A Paint Brush,
- Warm Water for cleaning.
- Work Boots
After gathering all the supplies, head towards the steps below as follows:
Step 1:
The first step is to take out the batteries or disconnect the power connection in the case of a cordless chainsaw. Then, find a suitable place that is flat and stable to make your process easy.
Step 2:
The second step is to drain out the oil and other liquids that might be there in the chainsaw. It is like you need to empty everything before you start washing it. Also, place the required tools nearby.
Step 3:
Then, remove the chainsaw cover and separate the bar and chain from the machine. Also, you will find two nuts on the side, loose them as they are responsible for keeping up the power head.
Also, take out air filters. Now your chainsaw is in pieces and it is time to wash each part separately. I will be telling you how to pressure wash chainsaw parts under separate headings.
How to Pressure Wash a Chainsaw Bar?
If the chainsaw bar is too dirty because of residual dust mixed with oil, then pressure wash it. It will remove all the dirt from every corner. However, set the pressure at low as high pressure can damage the chainsaw bar.
Once you are done with these arrangements, follow these 3 simple steps for the pressure-washing chainsaw bar.
Step 1:
Turn on the pressure washer and start washing the bar. Keep moving the nozzle of the pressure washer so that you can reach all the areas of the bar.
Step 2:
If you feel that water is not enough to clean the bar due to oil remains then wash it with a brush. Dip the brush in soap water and start scrubbing the bar with soapy water.
Step 3:
After scrubbing with soapy water, rinse it thoroughly with clean water and remove the soap. Take a clean cloth and dry the bar with it. Or else, you can simply leave it for air drying.
How to Pressure Wash a Chainsaw Chain?
Is your chainsaw chain in quite dirty and nasty condition? Do not worry, you can pressure wash it to remove all debris and clean it deeply. Here are the steps that you need to follow to wash the chainsaw chain with a pressure washer.
Step 1:
Firstly, put the warm water in a bucket and add soap to it. If you are having chainsaw chain washing liquid, it will be better to add it. Then, put the chain in that soap water and leave it to rest for some time so the dirt gets soft.
Step 2:
Before you hold the chain or use your hands for cleaning, take safety measures. For this, you need to wear a safety costume. If you are not wearing a full costume, wear eye protection and gloves, they are a must.
Step 3:
Take out the chainsaw chain from the soap water. Keep the chain in one hand and hold the pressure washer in the other hand. Make sure that the pressure is not too high.
Step 4:
Then, keep the chainsaw chain at least 6 inches away from the pressure washer. Start pressure washing the chain by changing the directions so that the soap is removed from every part.
Step 5:
It is the final step where you have to dry the chain with a piece of clean cloth. After drying the chainsaw chain, lubricate it properly and you are done with preparing your chainsaw chain for next use.
How to Pressure Wash a Chainsaw Power Head?
Here are three easy steps that you can follow for pressure washing chainsaw power head:
Step 1:
The first thing you need to do for pressure washing the chainsaw power head is to remove the spark plugs. Never skip this step or else you will get in trouble.
Step 2:
After removing the spark plug, turn on the pressure washer. Keep the nozzle about 6 inches away from the head and let the water run through the head for a few minutes. Doing this will clean dirt from every nook and corner.
Step 3:
Dry the head completely. After that, reinstall the spark plugs in the head and check the chainsaw. Hopefully, it will work properly and you are successfully done with the pressure washing power head of the chainsaw.
How to Pressure Wash Chainsaw Air Filters?
The other parts of the chainsaw that need to be cleaned are the chainsaw air filters. You can follow the same method as you did for washing the chainsaw chain. However, you can use brushes to scrub the filter for better and deep cleaning.
If the air filters are too dirty and old, it is better to replace them. They are not very expensive and easily available in the market. So it is good to replace them with new ones when they get worn out.
Pressure Washing Chainsaw Case:
The chainsaw case is super easy to wash with a pressure washer. You do not need to spend too much energy and time cleaning it. Simply, wash it with water pressure
If the case is also filthy, then use soap first. Apply the soap water and gently rub it on the case. Then, start the pressure washer and rinse with water to remove the soap.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Can you pressure wash the chainsaw?
Yes, you can wash the chainsaw and its various parts separately with a pressure washer. However, doing so requires a lot of care and precautions. If you are having any intention of pressure washing your chainsaw then must follow the safety guidelines and take out precautionary measures.
What is the best way to clean a chainsaw?
There are many methods available for washing a chainsaw. But if your chainsaw is too dirty and full of mud, then pressure washing is the most effective way.
The pressure of water will wipe out all the mud and debris without much effort. Otherwise, you need to consume a lot of energy and time washing it. Yet, you must follow the safety rules and work with great care.
What should you never pressure wash?
Though pressure washing is quite easy and very effective yet you should never wash certain things. These things include glass windows, painted furniture, Plants, clothes, and other such stuff.
The high pressure is no doubt useful but for the mentioned things, it will bring a lot of damage and you will see the worst consequences. Therefore, never try such things.
Can I pressure wash my STIHL chainsaw?
Yes, You can pressure wash the STIHL chainsaw. For that, you will need to have a 2000 psi washer and brush attached to it. Just remove the spark plugs and clean the chainsaw with soap using a brush.
Then, wash the soap with a pressure washer, and do not increase the pressure beyond 2000 psi. Once you have cleaned the chainsaw, dry it. You can use the air drying method or dry it with a cloth. Finally, lubricate the chainsaw and chain properly before using it.
Last Words:
I hope you have got your question answered: “can you pressure wash a chainsaw?”. Also, I have told you how you can pressure wash your chainsaw in detail.
Never forget that you do not need to frequently pressure wash your chainsaw. On a daily basis, you can clean it thoroughly with a brush and cloth. Frequent pressure washing can bring a lot of damage to your chainsaw.
Moreover, there are many other ways of cleaning chainsaws. You can also use them if the chainsaw is not too grimy and dirty.
his personal experience and loves to share their nitty gritty details with his audience.
Although Richard does focus on other home improvement tools, his focus remains on cutting fallen trees or maintaining his backyard via chainsaw tools. He pledges to come up with new knowledge about chainsaws every once in a while.
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