24 March 2008

10 Steps to Correctly Use an Electric Chainsaw Sharpener

Here is a step-by-step guide to using an electric chain saw sharpener: acquire the blade specifications, put the machine on a stand, install the sharpening stone, place the chainsaw blade and set the swivel angle, set the angle of the blade tooth angle, adjust the blade tooth backstop, set the grinding head’s depth stop, start the grinder and begin, set the grinder for the opposite teeth, and start the grinder and begin for the opposite teeth.

Just like a pencil needs a pencil sharpener, chainsaws have their own sharpening gear. The machine used to sharpen the chainsaw’s individual teeth is called the electric chainsaw sharpener. Its unique adjustments make it practical for all kinds of chainsaws. At the same time, sharpening the chainsaw with the right angle and depth is simple because you can make adjustments yourself. By following this basic procedure, you can save money caring for your own chainsaw sharpener.

Step 1: Acquire the blade specifications

This information can be seen on the box of your purchased chainsaw or the blade itself. These specifications will help you following the rest of the steps.

Step 2: Put the machine on a stand

Find a stand that is steady and comfortable. It should be in the appropriate height so you won’t have to lean down or reach up when sharpening your chainsaw. Make sure that you can easily install and remove the blade from the machine. Set the electric chainsaw sharpener and proceed to the next step.

Step 3: Install the sharpening stone.

The specifications you obtained in the first step will now be used for this part. Go to a hardware store ask for a sharpening stone that has the correct width for your machine. One that is 3/16 inch wide blade is the most common and is suitable for most chainsaw blades.

Step 4: Place the chainsaw blade and set the swivel angle

Install the chainsaw blade on the sharpener. Now, adjust the blade’s swivel angle. You can find the adjustment knob, which ranges from 0 to 80 degrees, on the rear end of the machine. The most common angle used is 60 degrees. This swivel angle will affect the grinding head in its performance.

Step 5: Set the angle of the blade tooth angle

The next step is to adjust of the blade tooth angle. This angle adjustment is what provides the blade teeth its grasp so it can cut through wood. In standard machines, the adjustment knob is located under the blade holder. You can loosen this by turning to a negative or otherwise, positive direction 10 degrees. The specifications in step 1 will again be used here.

Step 6: Adjust the blade tooth backstop

This adjustment can be made by lowering the grinding wheel closer or farther away from the blade tooth. Set the spring-loaded backstop so that each tooth stays in the same position in the blade. Try a few teeth so you can set the backstop properly.

Step 7: Set the grinding head’s depth stop

You will know that the adjustment is right when the depth stop fits into the blade tooth. When you set this in excess, the blade will overheat and loose a huge part of it. Set this in a way where the depth stop just touches the teeth inside edge.

Step 8: Start the grinder and begin

Start the grinder and lightly let the wheel touch the first tooth. Remember that there will be a few sparks. Look at the tooth’s inside edge after lifting the wheel. There should be a full curve with a shiny metal look on the tooth. Proceed to the next tooth on the same side of the blade.

Step 9: Set the grinder for the opposite teeth

You can do this by following Step 5 once more. If you set the angle as 5 degrees, then it should be reset to negative 5 degrees for the opposite side of the blade.

Step 10: Start the grinder and begin sharpening the opposite teeth

For the second time, start the grinder and sharpen all the teeth on the opposite side of the blade. You are done when you see a full curve with a shiny metal look on all the teeth.

A tip that you can use is to mark the tip of the tooth with a black marker to identify if it’s done sharpening. Note that safety should be your first priority. Always use gloves and safety glasses to protect your hands and eyes.

No comments:

Post a Comment