Hidden behind the sprocket cover, the chain sprocket is the driving force behind the chain. A seriously worn chain sprocket can cause the chainsaw chain and guide bar to wear at an increased rate, as well as reducing cutting performance too, so it’s important to keep an eye on. If the groove depth is too small, the tips of the drive links will scrape along the bottom and drastically impact how smoothly the chain moves around the guide bar.
A spur sprocket is a single piece of metal that has sprocket teeth made directly onto the clutch bell housing of the sprocket. Rim Sprocket Systems are typically used by professionals and chainsaw enthusiasts who cut large amounts of wood. Replacement rims typically cost around $7 while a whole Rim Sprocket System costs around $30. Properly maintaining your chainsaw will save you a ton of time and money down the line.
Chainsaw Sprocket – Maintenance & PerformanceA chainsaw sprocket plays a key part in the performance of a chainsaw. Chainsaw drive sprocket maintenance Worn out sprockets not only affect the efficiency and working of your chainsaw but can result in wear on all the other components connected to it. Even though sprocket maintenance is such as an important aspect of overall chainsaw maintenance, many tree professions tend to overlook it.
In my opinion some people change sprockets too often and others seem to never change them at all until they wear clean through. It’s hard to recommend replacing the sprocket after so many chains because some people can file a chain and can use one chain for a long time, while others end up replacing a chain after a few failed attempts at sharpening. Most sprockets have a little horizantal line on each side of the driver holes of the sprocket.
Replace a chainsaw drive sprocket after wearing out two chains or if it is damaged. If you decide to change your drive sprocket type, the new sprocket must be compatible with the chainsaw’s chain and bar’s pitch and gauge. Pro Tips If your chainsaw uses a rim-type drive sprocket, add a spare sprocket and retaining clip to your field service kit.
when to change chainsaw sprocket Related Question:
When should I replace my chainsaw sprocket?
You should replace drive sprocket systems after every two chains, or sooner. It’s important not to run a new chain on a badly worn drive sprocket.
When should I replace the sprocket on my Stihl chainsaw?
To maintain the service life of your saw chain, STIHL recommends that you replace the sprocket on your chainsaw after you have gone through two chains or sooner if the sprocket shows more than 0.5 mm of wear. STIHL advises alternating between the two saw chains to help keep the sprocket from wearing out prematurely.
How do I know if my chainsaw clutch is worn out?
Does the engine loose revs, or the engine keep revving and just the chain stops? If the engine is still running at normal revs, and the chain slows down, then it’s a problem with the clutch. Worn out, gummed up, jammed springs etc. If the engine looses revs under load then it’s more likely a fuel or carb problem.
How do I know if my chainsaw needs replacing?
The chainsaw pulls in one direction, which results in a crooked finish. Blunt cutting teeth on one side or uneven teeth lengths usually cause this. The teeth has hit rocks or dirt and broken. If you notice the tops of the teeth are missing you will need to replace the chain.
How long does a chainsaw sprocket last?
Even though sprocket maintenance is such as an important aspect of overall chainsaw maintenance, many tree professions tend to overlook it. The sprockets should ideally be changed every two to three chains. It’s also crucial you buy a sprocket that’s compatible with the chain on your saw.
Why does my chainsaw get dull so fast?
Dirt Causes A Chainsaw To Dull If you’re cutting through logs and your angle of approach is too steep, a simple cut through could nick dirt or even worse, rocks on the floor causing your chainsaw to jerk, thus dulling.
How many times can you sharpen a chainsaw?
Cutters can be sharpened up to 10 times or more before the chain needs replacing. If your cutters are worn unevenly after a few sharpenings, a professional can regrind them to uniform shape. If you use the same chain for a few years, then buy a new one, the new one won’t mesh smoothly with the sprocket and bar.
Why does my chainsaw vibrate?
The main causes that influence on vibration levels of chainsaw are mainly dynamic forces from the motor, sawing modes, unbalanced moving parts, shocks in gears, bearings and other mechanisms and also in the interaction between the operator, the machine and the wood being processed [5].
Are all chainsaw drive sprockets the same?
Sprocket Size & Gearing The pitch of your sprocket, the pitch of your saw chain, and the pitch of your bar tip must all match. On most pro saws this will usually be: . 325″, 3/8″, or . 404″.
Is my chainsaw sprocket worn out?
Look closely at the teeth of the sprocket for signs of a groove or notches. The teeth are supposed to be smooth and consistent. If you noticed that there is a groove worn in the teeth and the chain will not rotate consistently smooth, it’s time to replace the sprocket.
Which is better Rim sprocket or spur sprocket?
Rim sprockets are better than spur sprockets because they are easy to maintain, offer increased flexibility and have a lower cost. Unless you have a very specific use case, you will be happier with a rim drive sprocket and so will your chainsaw.
How do you match a chainsaw chain to a sprocket?
The pitch of the chain must match the pitch of the drive sprocket / drive rim and this must match the end sprocket of the bar. If these elements don’t match then damage will occur.
Are chainsaw sprockets gauge specific?
Drive sprockets can drive any gauge chain, only the pitch matters.
What does a clutch drum do?
An outer drum that turns freely – This drum includes a sprocket that engages the chain. When the drum turns, the chain turns. A center shaft attached directly to the engine’s crankshaft – If the engine is turning, so is the shaft.
What causes chainsaw bar wear?
The opposing surfaces inside the rails are parallel with each other. During use, the chain’s drive links rub against these “walls,” causing wear. Bars tend to wear fastest in the top of the groove, slowly turning what was once a “U” shaped groove into a looser “V” shape.