In this article, we have prepared for you answers to the most frequently asked questions about replacing a chainsaw sprocket. After reading the article, you will learn how to replace the chainsaw sprocket, when and why you need to change the sprocket to chainsaw, types of sprockets for chainsaws, is the replacement of a star different in Chinese, Russian or European chainsaw.
To remove the sprocket from the chainsaw, you need:
- Loosen the retaining screws and remove the protective cover.
- Get the chain and bar.
- Detach the air filter with cover.
- Disconnect the clutch using a special key (included in the kit / you can buy a universal one / only available in branded services).
- There will be an asterisk in front of you. It can be collapsible or non-collapsible. The non-separable one is completely changed - the bed with a crown, this is a one-piece structure. Collapsible change depending on the situation. Inspect it: if there are no serious damages on the frame, only the crown is replaced.
After replacement, assemble the case back:
Insert the clutch, attach the air filter and its cover, if during the disassembly process it was necessary unscrew the spark plug - screw it back, install the chain with the bar, fix the housing and tighten the bolts, but not much. At this stage, you will need to tighten the chain, and then tighten the clamping bolts. Your chain should not sag - low tension, but should not go tight (try to turn it by hand, you should not make much effort) - strong tension.
Does the replacement of an asterisk differ on a Chinese, Russian or European chainsaw?
No. Professional and household chainsaws have the same design, regardless of where they were made. Yes, the build quality, the location of some elements and components may vary, but the general concept, principle and design are the same. Therefore, you can replace the sprocket on a Russian, European or Chinese chainsaw according to the same instructions.
The content of the article
- What types of chainsaw sprockets are there?
- Why might a chainsaw sprocket need to be replaced?
- When do you need to change the chainsaw sprocket?
What types of chainsaw sprockets are there?
There are two types of sprockets that are used in chainsaws:
- solid (non-separable);
- collapsible.
The first are a single structure of the frame, clutch plate, slotted mount and whisk. The whisk cannot be obtained separately. Such devices are cheaper than collapsible sprockets for chainsaws - $ 5-7, but wear out faster and are uneconomical. when replacing - you will have to replace the entire structure, and not just one part, despite the fact that the bed / plate is almost wears out. Such stars are used in budget, Chinese and Russian chainsaws.
The second is a construction of two elements: a bed / clutch plate and a whisk. The whisk is freely included in the plate, it can be obtained separately. Stars of this type are more expensive than solid ones - around $ 20, but they are more profitable when replacing - replacing one whisk is cheaper. Installed in European, premium and professional chainsaws.
Why might a chainsaw sprocket need to be replaced?
Firstly, due to natural causes - the chainsaw is used, the chain rotates, the sprocket transmits torque to the chain, during operation its teeth are erased in the same way as the cutting teeth of the chain. When the sprocket teeth are heavily worn, the chain begins to fly off, slip, ceases to be smooth - in general, performance decreases.
The chain can get stuck, jammed. For some reason, the chain gets stuck in the teeth of the sprocket. Such a tool is forbidden to use due to the high risk of injury.
The chain is too tight or there is no oil/lubrication. When this happens, there is more friction between the tire and the tire, so the engine has to exert more force to turn the chain. If there is no oil, then friction also increases. The asterisk is a passing link, it wears out with increased effort.
Defect. It can be technological - the marriage of an asterisk. Or acquired - in the course of working with the wrong chain, incorrectly installed chainsaw chain.
You decide to change the chain to a new one. If you want to replace the chain, then you need to change the sprocket as well. If the old sprocket has been used for a long time, and a new chain has been put on it, then the risk is high that the chain may break, fly off, peel off and sag. It could also be due to incorrect tension.
When do you need to change the chainsaw sprocket?
It depends on situation. Most manufacturers write in the instructions for the chainsaw what needs to be changed and when. In any case, you need to regularly inspect the device, in particular the sprocket:
- The plate should not be damaged - no cracks.
- Star teeth wear, worn metal, scratches, chips and other damage should not exceed a depth of half a millimeter.
- During operation, increased noise, strong vibration.
- The chain jerks, slips, sags (may be loose).
