How to properly break in a chainsaw - after purchase and overhaul

The service life of new chainsaw equipment largely depends on the quality of its preparation for subsequent operation. How to properly break in a European or Chinese-made chainsaw with maximum efficiency?

The process of running in a new tool, which is low in time and material investment, has a positive effect on its performance characteristics and duration of use.

Moderate loads during the first stage of running-in contribute to the full grinding in of internal parts, the complete and inexpensive development of the designated overhaul and operational service life.

Advantages of factory break-in

It should be noted that new saws from many leading manufacturers do not require running-in. The running-in of the piston group and working equipment using special technology is carried out directly during the control tests.

Reducing the time of this stage is facilitated by chrome plating the inner diameter of the cylinder and applying wear-resistant coatings to the working surfaces of loaded parts. However, recommendations for a gentle treatment during the first hours of operation of the instrument remain valid.

Analogues on the market

In the range of inexpensive chainsaws, Carver RSG 238 occupies one of the first positions in terms of price/quality ratio. However, there are other chainsaws on the market that compete with the Carver brand. A comparison can be made with several models that are closest in characteristics.

Each of the above models has its own pros and cons. In general, their performance corresponds to the price category in which they are located.

Criteria for independent selection of motor and chain oils

Motor and chain oils recommended by the manufacturer contain special additives that provide full lubrication to working surfaces over a wide range of operating temperatures.

You should not skimp on the quality of lubricants, so when choosing, you should give preference to lubricants from the Stihl, Husqvarna or Oregon brands. Motor oils from these manufacturers for two-stroke internal combustion engines can be purchased in specialized stores or sales offices of dealer companies.

Operational advantages of the model

The technical and operational capabilities of the product have been expanded by the use of new materials and technologies, the introduction of effective measures to increase labor productivity, extend the service life, and ensure the safety of highly complex work.

The saw copes with cross-cutting and longitudinal sawing of soft and hard wood with equal success, which determines its use in a wide range of logging, woodworking and construction works.

The tool is distinguished by good balancing and full-fledged vibration damping, which reduces fatigue and loss of working time when performing voluminous and complex sawing work.

Features of fuel preparation

Each chainsaw differs from similar models in terms of design features and dosage of the fuel-oil working mixture, so even if you have the proper experience, it is recommended that you familiarize yourself with the contents of the attached operating instructions.

To prepare fuel, it is recommended to use fresh gasoline with an octane number of at least 90 and heat-resistant motor oil recommended by the manufacturer, in the dosage specified in the instructions.

The fuel mixture in an amount sufficient for one-time operation is prepared in a fireproof metal container, preferably with a sealed cap. In the absence of oils recommended by the manufacturer, replacement with a full-fledged analogue of the JASOFB or ISOEGB category is possible.

Gasoline with an oil component should not be stored for more than 2 months. The performance properties of an overexposed gasoline-oil mixture deteriorate significantly over time.

Beginning of work

You will learn how to turn on STIHL chainsaws from this detailed description and illustrations

Please note that the first start of the STIHL saw must be carried out STRICTLY according to these instructions

Note The instructions provided for operating the chainsaw should only be considered as a supplement to the operating instructions for your STIHL chainsaw. The STIHL saw startup illustrations are for illustrative purposes only and do not apply to specific chainsaws because different types of chainsaws may have different controls. Before using the chainsaw, familiarize yourself with its design and carefully read the instruction manual. If you have any questions, please contact your dealer directly.

• Step 1 of 15: Before starting the chainsaw, apply the chain brake. To do this, press the chain brake forward (see illustration).
• Step 2 of 15: Before starting the chainsaw, be sure to remove the bar guard.
• Step 3 of 15: If your chainsaw has a decompression valve, press it. This will make it easier to start the engine and, thereby, start the chainsaw.
• Step 4 of 15: If your chainsaw has a fuel pump, press it. This will make it easier to start the engine and reduce the number of pumps.
• Step 5 of 15: Set the combination lever to the throttle/cold start position. To do this, first activate the throttle lever lock and the throttle lever itself, and then press the combined lever all the way down.
• Step 6 of 15: Place the chainsaw on a level surface before starting. The cutting attachment must not come into contact with the ground, otherwise it may become dull when starting, and you will needlessly expose yourself to danger.
• Step 7 of 15: Grasp the chainsaw lying on the ground with both hands. In this case, the left hand should be located on the handle, and the right hand should be on the starting cable. Step on the rear handle with the toe of your right foot to ensure the stability of the chainsaw.
• Step 8 of 15: Slowly pull the starter cord with your right hand until you feel resistance. After this, pull the starting cable with force several times so that the engine starts for a short time (if possible, pull up so that the cable does not rub against the fan housing).

  Chainsaw startup process (1.2 MB)

• Step 9 of 15: The engine starts only briefly and then turns off again. Open the throttle by moving the combination lever up one detent position (half throttle).

  Chainsaw startup process (1.2 MB)

• Step 10 of 15: Pull the starting rope again until the engine starts again.

  Chainsaw startup process (1.2 MB)

• Step 11 of 15: Once the engine starts and runs, briefly press the throttle lever with your index finger. This moves the combination lever to the normal idle position.

  Chainsaw startup process (1.2 MB)

• Step 12 of 15: Slowly lift the chainsaw off the ground, being careful not to touch the throttle lever.

  Chainsaw startup process (1.2 MB)

• Step 13 of 15: After this, release the chain brake by pulling the chain brake handle towards you with your left hand. In this case, the left hand should remain on the handle. A characteristic click means that the chain is unlocked and can move along the bar.
• Step 14 of 15: Before you begin, be sure to check the chain lubrication system. To do this, place the saw on a light background (for example, a stump or a piece of paper laid out on the ground) and give full throttle. If oil stains appear on a light background, this means that the chain lubrication system is functioning normally and you can start working.
• Step 15 of 15: The chainsaw is ready for use. For safety instructions when working with a chainsaw, see the instruction manual.

  Chainsaw startup process (1.2 MB)

Preparing for the first launch

Before starting the chainsaw, you must make sure that the emergency stop mechanism of the headset is turned off. The engine is started in the sequence recommended in the instructions.

After a short warm-up, it is recommended to bring the power unit to medium speed to check the lubrication system. To do this, just hold the headset over a sheet of paper. The presence of an oil streak indicates the serviceability of the system and complete lubrication of the saw chain.

The bearings of the driven sprockets of guide bars with a length of 16 inches or more are individually lubricated after 8-10 hours of operation.

Modification Huter BS-45M

Huter BS 45 has one improved modification, which is sold under the Huter BS 45M label.

It differs from its older sister with slightly more power (1.8 kW) and a shorter tire. The length of the bus supplied with Huter BS is 45 m 40 cm. This model uses a chain with a pitch of 3/8, so the headset from the modified model is not suitable for BS 45.

Otherwise, the chainsaws are almost the same, except for the cost. Typically, the modified model is slightly more expensive.

Carburetor adjustment

A full run-in of a new chainsaw involves properly setting up the fuel system. Standard factory carburetor adjustment is made on the basis of averaged data, therefore, depending on external factors, it needs to be adjusted.

A saw with an adjusted carburetor should quickly pick up speed, equally stable at operating mode and at idle speed. The proper quality of the air-fuel mixture is also indicated by the brown color of the spark plug insulator.

Characteristics of BS 45

The chainsaw chain drives a single-cylinder two-stroke engine. Its volume is 45 cubic meters. cm, which is why the name of the saw contains the marking 45. This volume allows you to produce 1.7 kW of power at maximum speed, which is slightly higher than the power of competing chainsaws, for example Shtil 180.

As standard, the saw is equipped with a long bar (45 cm) and a chain with a Husqvarna pitch of 0.325.

This length of the bar, combined with good power, allows you to comfortably cut tree trunks with a diameter of more than 30 cm.

The fuel consumption of the Huter 45 is slightly higher than that of the Shtil 180, this is due to the difference in piston volume. The fuel tank is 0.55 liters, enough to run for 30 minutes.

The Huter BS-45 has an anti-vibration system and an emergency chain brake system, which significantly increases the level of safety during operation. Shock absorbers of the 45th can be metal spring, there are also modifications with rubber-metal ones. It’s just that metal ones are a little more reliable, because rubber-metal ones tear quite often and are not able to withstand the load.

The weight of the equipped chainsaw is more than 7 kg. It is quite difficult to work with such a tool for a long time. Its heavy weight makes it difficult to use on construction sites. In terms of weight, the Huter BS 45 is much inferior to its competitors; the saw is also very noisy, producing more than a hundred decibels during operation, so you need to use headphones while working.

Recommendations for the initial break-in stage

• The practice of running in a new chainsaw without a saw set is fundamentally wrong, since all its moving elements need to be broken in.
• The standard break-in time is several hours. In any case, the design of chainsaws of any quality and price level does not provide for prolonged operation of the engine at idle speed.
• In this mode, the loaded parts of the piston group and connecting rod-crank mechanism experience a significant lack of lubrication, which inevitably leads to overheating and forced wear of the working surfaces.
• The total running-in time at idle with periodic gas releases of 25-30 seconds should not exceed 15-20 minutes.

Running a run-in engine without load at high speeds is strictly prohibited. Moreover, running in the tool at idle speed is ineffective; the best result can be obtained when subjected to moderate loads. The new chainsaw can be used to cut wood of medium density and small diameter within 100 mm.

How to break in a chainsaw chain and bar

Simultaneously with running in the engine, you need to grind in the saw set. To ensure proper lapping, you must ensure that:

• There is enough oil in the tank to lubricate the chain • The chain is tensioned well • Oil flows to the chain when the tool is in use

When starting up for the first time, you can apply an additional amount of oil to the chain, which will not be superfluous. It can be removed and soaked in oil for some time (1-2 hours). It is recommended to use special oil, but not waste oil.

After the chain is soaked in oil, it is installed on the chainsaw bar and tensioned. The tension should be sufficient so that the chain does not fly off, but at the same time moves freely by hand. After 10-15 minutes of operating the tool under load, the headset should be re-tensioned.

How to extend the life of a new headset?

Experienced sawyers practice keeping a new saw set in a container with hot chain oil at a temperature of no more than 60°C for a day.

This procedure, known as stabilizing the internal structure of the metal, has a positive effect on its resistance to external loads and temperatures. Identical technology is recommended for processing saw sets used as replacement equipment.

During the break-in process, it is necessary to periodically monitor the chain tension, the presence of chain oil in the tank and its supply to the cutting working area. It is better to postpone checking the emergency stop mechanism of the chain until you have developed certain working skills.

Model Promo PSG 52 18

The Carver Promo PSG 52 18 chainsaw easily copes with sawing any wood materials. The introduction of the basic functions inherent in this line of equipment contributes to the quick and high-quality execution of tasks of various levels of complexity. The weight of the device is only 5.2 kilograms, while the power of the unit is 2.6 hp. The engine capacity is 52 cm3.

Peculiarities:

• QuickStart of the Carver chainsaw will ensure trouble-free starting in any weather and temperature.
• The vibration damping system will protect your arms and back from excessive stress.
• For a secure grip, the handles are covered with rubberized material.
• The automatic supply of lubricant mixture to the chain of the Carver Promo chainsaw can be adjusted.
• The air filter can be easily accessed with minimal effort.
• If sudden kickback occurs, the chain brake will engage.
• The toothed stop of the Carver chainsaw will make the cut as precise as possible.
• The tire size is forty-five centimeters.

Analysis of controversial warranty situations

At the break-in stage, hidden defects often appear, which service and repair services must eliminate free of charge during the warranty period. Attempts to independently eliminate serious faults may become grounds for refusal of warranty repairs by service specialists.

Identified manufacturing defects, serious failures and malfunctions are eliminated at service centers free of charge, provided that the faulty component or unit does not have clearly identified signs of self-repair.

Incomplete depletion of the life of the saw set is not included in the list of manufacturing defects; replacement of tires and chains is carried out for a fee. Warranty repairs may be denied if the service department proves the use of surrogate consumable fuels and lubricants.

Purpose

The Huter BS 45 chainsaw is a household tool; it is not recommended to be used for industrial logging, since it has a limited resource, due to the fact that manufacturers tried to save as much as possible when developing it. But, despite this, the chainsaw has established itself as a reliable household assistant, with the help of which you can prepare firewood for the winter, maintain the site, and saw off anything at a construction site. Provided timely maintenance is carried out, the saw can last for more than one year.

The Huter BS 45 chainsaw is not suitable for outdoor enthusiasts, as its weight and dimensions are above average.

The chainsaw manufacturer, the German company Huter, has been represented on the Russian market since 2000.

According to the manufacturer, the Huter BS-45 saw is German, but if you look closely, it becomes clear that this is another creation of Chinese industry, imported into our country under a German brand.

Although this is a Chinese version of the chainsaw, the fact that it is sold under the Huter brand provides some advantages. The saw is covered by a warranty, and the company’s specialists also carry out post-warranty repairs; there are no problems with servicing the Huter 45.

A video review of the Huter BS 45 can be viewed below. After watching, you will find out what a chainsaw looks like and how it is equipped. Familiarize yourself with the main components. The video also shows how to properly start a chainsaw cold and hot and how it cuts.

conclusions

Today, there are many models of chainsaws and manufacturers represented by different countries (see the ranking of the best). And each of these devices requires its own individual approach, even though they all consist of almost the same parts. But even the slightest additions affect the operation of the chainsaw itself , as well as its maintenance.

Therefore, it is very important to be as attentive as possible to the instructions in the operating instructions established by one or another manufacturer (for example, read the instructions for the Husqvarna chainsaw). Take care of your tool, give it due attention and it will undoubtedly serve you for many years without breakdowns and provide you with good performance.