Learn the Basics of Automatic Chainsaw Oiling for Hassle-Free Pruning!

First, pick the right kind of oil to use in your chainsaw oiler. Motor oil is a common choice but it’s best to use chainsaw bar oil as it is made specifically for this purpose. Too thin of an oil will simply get flung off by the high speed of the chain, making it difficult for the oil to sufficiently coat the chain and bar. This can cause serious damage to your chainsaw as the chain will expend more energy to overcome the friction from metal-to-metal contact and could eventually lead to a damaged chain. Using oil that is too thick can cause similar damage, especially in cold weather, because it will not be distributed properly.

Next, fill up your chainsaw oiler. Most are fairly easy to access and simply require an oil cap to be removed. If your chainsaw needs more than this done, consult your owner’s manual for the proper oil filling instructions. It is highly recommended to check the oil level often as most of these oilers run when the same amount of gas runs out of your chainsaw.

So how do these oilers work? Well, what it really comes down to is it creates a small reservoir of oil by using the crankshaft and pump assembly. The oil is then pumped up into a small canal behind a cover plate, which separates it from the bar. This canal is designed to guide the oil into a small hole in the bar. This small hole then leads up to a groove that goes all the way around the outer edge of the bar. This groove is where the chain rides and is where the oil will be dispersed.

As the crankshaft turns, it pumps the oil from the reservoir, into the canal, and finally into the hole in the bar which then dispenses the oil into the outer edge of the bar. This allows the chain to ride through the oil and properly lubricate both the bar and chain. This lubrication drastically reduces the damaging friction from the high speed and metal to metal contact.

Caring for your chainsaw automatic oiler is easy, especially compared to a manually operated oiler. To keep it in good working order, always make sure you’re using the right type of oil and also ensure that there is enough in the reservoir. Following these steps should keep your chainsaw running smoothly and make your job using it even easier!