How to Replace a Chainsaw Chain

Last Updated on February 26, 2020 by Bob Campbell

This article is going to cover changing your chainsaw blade. I found a cool video that I figured we’d break down into a step by step plan.

How to Replace a Chainsaw Chain

Step 1 – Get Your Chainsaw And New Blade

As always… make sure the machine is OFF before you service it.

Step 2 – Locate The Nuts Holding On The Bar

Note that your model may look a little different.

Step 3 – Remove The Nuts

Remember… lefty loosey righty tighty!

Step 4 – Adjust To Take Some Tension Off The Bar

This will make it easier to work with.

Step 5 – Remove The Nuts And Side Cover

Clean off any debris or saw dust that has built up inside the cover.

Step 6 – Remove The Chain From The Drum

Step 7 – Inspect The Bar To Make Sure It’s Straight

Also clean out the groove and the oil holes.

Step 8 – Get The New Chain

You can wear gloves if you are uncomfortable. The new chain will be very sharp!

Step 9 – Put The Bar Back On

Step 10 – Put the Chain on the Drum

Be sure the cutting teeth are facing away from the saw. If you put the chain on backwards it won’t cut!!

Step 11 – Work The Chain Around The Bar

Be sure to push the bar back on the stud.

Step 12 – Reinstall the Side Cover

Put the nuts on loosely and make sure the chain spins freely before tightening.

Step 13 – Loosely Tighten The Nuts And Chain

Tighten the nuts so the bar doesn’t move, but don’t tighten them all the way yet. Tighten the chain. It should be tight enough that when you pull up on it, the teeth should start to come up, but not out of the groove.

Step 14 – Fully Tighten The Nuts

Step 15 – Test The Chain Brake

Engage the chain brake and try to move the chain. If it doesn’t engage, have the machine serviced by a professional.