Checking if your chainsaw oiler is doing its job

[Alan]

You’ve got your chainsaw in hand, ready to tackle some wood, but you can’t help but wonder if the oiler is doing its job to keep that bar and chain nice and slick. What’s your go-to method for checking it out before things start heating up and getting smoky?

 

[STIHLTECH]

Point the tip of the bar at something that will show oil. Look for oil sling. Then shut off the saw and look for oil on the side cover. This is the quickest and easiest method.
Also, monitor tank level at fillup. Most saws will use just over half a tank of oil, or more, between fillups.
If the oiler has an adjustment, make sure it is all the way open.
And #1- keep the chain sharp. A dull chain will burn the oil off. It doesn't matter how well the oiler is working. This will cure 75% of all not oiling enough complaints in a shop.

 

[madpogue]

... and look for oil on the side cover....

Another reason to start each day's work with a clean saw (or more accurately, to store your saw clean).

 

[Alan]

Great advice here. Simple oil checks, good habits, and the solid reminder that a clean, sharp saw can really improve how everything works.

 

[hunting1]

^^^ What STIHLTECH said. Spot on.

 

[Alan]

Couldn't agree more.

 

[Leon Couper]

Right on the money STIHLTECH

 

[Ken_stump]

Point the tip of the bar at something that will show oil. Look for oil sling. Then shut off the saw and look for oil on the side cover. This is the quickest and easiest method.
Also, monitor tank level at fillup. Most saws will use just over half a tank of oil, or more, between fillups.
If the oiler has an adjustment, make sure it is all the way open.
And #1- keep the chain sharp. A dull chain will burn the oil off. It doesn't matter how well the oiler is working. This will cure 75% of all not oiling enough complaints in a shop.

Really like the reminder about chain sharpness. Keeping an eye on the oil level and checking the sling are straightforward yet effective ways to stay on top of things. Appreciate your insights

 

[Paul]

When checking for that oil sling on a piece of cardboard or whatever, please be sure to hold the tip so the top quadrant doesn’t contact anything.

 

[Alan]

When checking for that oil sling on a piece of cardboard or whatever, please be sure to hold the tip so the top quadrant doesn’t contact anything.

Appreciate the heads-up! Wise move, thanks for highlighting it.