how to file rakers on chainsaw

3 min read 14-01-2025

Maintaining a sharp chainsaw chain is crucial for safety and efficiency. A dull chain requires more force, increasing the risk of kickback and accidents. Filing your chain correctly ensures smooth, clean cuts and extends the life of your bar and chain. This guide provides a step-by-step process for filing your chainsaw rakers (depth gauges).

Understanding Chainsaw Chain Components

Before we begin filing, let's quickly review the key components:

Cutting Teeth: These are the teeth that actually remove wood.
Depth Gauges (Rakers): These small metal projections sit just before each cutting tooth. They control the depth of cut. Incorrectly filed rakers lead to poor cutting performance and chain damage.
Drive Links: These connect the cutting teeth and keep the chain moving.

Properly filed rakers ensure that the cutting teeth remove a consistent amount of wood with each pass, preventing binding and kickback. This guide focuses on filing those rakers.

Tools You'll Need

You'll need a few essential tools for the job:

Round File: Specifically designed for chainsaw rakers. The size is crucial; it must match the raker height specified in your chainsaw's manual. Using the wrong size can ruin your chain.
Flat File (Optional): Useful for smoothing any burrs created during filing.
Measuring Tool (Optional): A depth gauge tool or a ruler to ensure consistent raker height.
Chain Sharpener (Optional): A more advanced tool that simplifies the process, especially for beginners.
Work Gloves: Protecting your hands is paramount.
Safety Glasses: Eye protection is essential to prevent debris from injuring your eyes.
Chainsaw Vise: Essential for securely holding the chain.

How to File Chainsaw Rakers: A Step-by-Step Guide

1. Secure the Chain: Use a chainsaw vise to firmly clamp the chain. Ensure the chain is securely held and won't move during filing. This prevents accidental injury and ensures accurate filing.

2. Inspect the Rakers: Examine the rakers carefully. Look for any significant variations in height. This will help you determine the amount of filing needed for each raker.

3. Choose the Right File: Select a round file that matches the specified raker height. Consult your chainsaw's manual for the correct size.

4. Filing Technique: Place the round file on top of a raker, making sure it's perpendicular (90 degrees) to the raker. Apply even, gentle pressure, pushing the file away from you in a smooth, controlled motion. Avoid rocking or tilting the file, which can cause uneven filing.

5. Consistency is Key: File each raker to the same height. Aim for consistency, so the teeth cut evenly. Use a measuring tool if necessary.

6. Check and Adjust: Regularly check your progress and compare the height of the filed rakers to ensure uniformity. Adjust your filing as needed.

7. Smoothing (Optional): Use a flat file to smooth out any burrs or rough edges after filing. This step improves the chain's performance.

Filing Frequency: How Often Should You File?

The frequency of filing depends on your usage. Regularly inspect your chain for dullness. If you notice the chain is struggling to cut smoothly, it's time to file. As a general guideline, sharpening may be necessary after every few hours of continuous use.

Professional Sharpening: When to Seek Help

If you're uncomfortable with filing, or if the chain is severely damaged, it's best to seek professional sharpening services. This will ensure the chain is properly sharpened and maintained, preventing damage and accidents.

Safety First!

Always prioritize safety. Wear appropriate safety gear, use a vise to hold the chain, and take your time. Never rush the process, as rushing can lead to mistakes and injuries.

By following these steps, you'll keep your chainsaw running smoothly and efficiently, ensuring safer and more productive cutting. Remember, a well-maintained chain is a safe chain.