Which Way Does a Chain Go On a Chainsaw? A Guide [2024]

Richard McMann

Knowledge Based

chainsaw chain directionDid you get your chainsaw? And you are ready to cut woods, but oops, your chain is just troubling, or you don’t know the way it should move.

Commonly, the best chainsaw chain uses the forwarded direction to move on the bar. The pointy or cutting edge side of the chain is faced on the top of the bar.

However, people also place the chain’s backward side on the bar (totally a wrong practice). You’ll not be able to cut anything, then; what would be the purpose of a chainsaw, right?

Therefore, setting the chainsaw chain in the right direction is essential to avoid mishaps or injuries.

Let’s dive more to find which way does a chain go on a chainsaw as follows:

Which Way Does a Chain Go on a Chainsaw?

Don’t tell us you have tried changing your chainsaw chain. Even if it’s true, you don’t have to worry because we have compiled an ultimate guide to help you get your chain back on track.

The chain direction is based on the chainsaw blade direction, which usually moves clockwise, which means that the blade rotates from the central machine part and goes back. Similarly, the chain also moves from ‘in’ to ‘out’ and then ‘inner back machine area.

However, for a general view, carefully assess your chainsaw chain. And find cutters (that face forward), a guide (a small piece faces front), and a drive link (that moves forward). Understanding these chain parts will help you set your chain more easily.

Consequently, make sure you give a read to the stepwise procedure mentioned below to avoid any misfortunes. If you are looking for;

All chains have a similar pattern, and you can easily replace your chains following the procedure mentioned below.

How to Put a Chain on Chainsaw in 2 Easy Steps

If you are about to check or change your chainsaw chain direction, you have to remove the casing chainsaw. By removing the chainsaw’s side case, you will find the bar guide and the chain. Afterward, take out the bar guide and chain separating them from the chainsaw. Now let’s do some technical work.

Step 1: Identifying Chain Direction

As discussed earlier, finding the right chain direction depends on its parts. Therefore, it’s necessary to identify three major parts for exact chain direction. You can also use only one part to identify.

  1. A cutter is basically an edge-shaped part that cuts the materials. However, check if the cutter has extended from the chain and pointed forward. If so, then your chain is in the right direction.
  2. A drive link is a pointed chain’s part with a wave-like shape and gets fixed in the grooves present on the guide bar. You just have to see if the drive link is pointing forward similar to the cutter or not. If it’s forwarded, then the chain is in the right position.
  3. The guide is not a metal-based long sheet; rather, it’s a small piece that moves towards the front. It ensures a specific amount of wood during cutting. If the guide moves towards the cutter, the chain is perfectly in the right direction.

Step 2: Reassembling the Chainsaw

After identifying the right chainsaw chain direction, you can start placing the chain and the bar guide back to their positions to put together the chainsaw. However, make sure you don’t connect the backward chain and tightly reassemble both things.

Test Your Chainsaw

After reassembling, now you can test practice your chainsaw whether it is showing the following signs or not;

If there’s a big NO, congratulations! You have been saved from buying a new mini chainsaw chain. Or else it’s time to empty your pockets.

Here’s a complete guide on chain directions given by donyboy73

FAQs: Easiest Way to Solve All Queries

What is the right way to put a chain on a chainsaw?

The blade direction determines the right way to put the chain on the tool. The pointy cuts or edges should be placed in the direction of blade rotation. Consequently, make sure the cutting edges are on the top side of the chain bar. And the chain moves towards the outer part of the bar (tip) and away from the main device area.

Can a chain be put on backward on a chainsaw?

Putting the backward side of the chain on the chainsaw bar would not help in cutting at all. Therefore, placing the pointy part of the chain outwards is necessary. Otherwise, you can move the chain from both sides.

Why is my chainsaw blade smoking?

A dull chain exerts pressure on the chainsaw bar to proceed cutting process leading to blade smoking. Major reasons for smoking include no oil (both chain and bar) and shutting of oil flow in the inferior parts that causes no lubrication.

How long should a chainsaw blade stay sharp?

A general estimated time is three hours for a blade to stay sharp. However, the average time might reduce if the machine is frequently used. Apart from that, a well-built chainsaw can retain its cutting potential for three hours straight and actively cut through the woods.

Why does my chainsaw chain get dull so fast?

Identify the type of wood or material you are cutting. For instance, if you cut a muddy wood or hard material such as metal or concrete, the chainsaw is more likely to experience dullness. Also, avoid using the chainsaw in the dirt.

Why does my chain keep coming loose?

An obvious reason for your query is the chain’s substandard setting. As long as your chain is not properly set on the bar, it will keep losing its place. Thus, follow the setting steps carefully and ensure setting the tension correctly to avoid any slips.

Wrapping Up

We hope now you have a clear idea about the way a chain should go on a chainsaw. However, if you still have any queries, drop them in the comment section below. And while our team gets back to you, read this guide on setting a chainsaw chain.

Have happy woody days!

Richard McMann
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