Keeping the bar groove clean when cutting dirty wood

[Zaylor]

I’m in the middle of a cut, the saw is buzzing, and dirt is flying everywhere. I can’t help but wonder how to keep that bar groove from getting all gunked up. What’s your secret for staying clean and keeping the chain in good shape? I’d love to hear your tips and tricks!

 

[LogLife]

Totally get it halfway through a cut, and my bar groove looks like a disaster zone. A quick brush every few logs and a little light oil keeps things running smoothly. It saves me from headaches and chain wear later on.

 

[benchguy]

What a mess! I usually give my bar a quick wipe during breaks and make sure my chain oil isn’t blocked.
A bit of maintenance while I work really helps keep those cuts smooth and my bars in good shape.

 

[Proxima]

I always keep a small brush and some degreaser close by. Just take a minute to clean the groove and re-lube it’s way quicker than dealing with a jammed chain when I’m in the middle of a cut.

 

[Leon Couper]

It pays to take the bar right off and there is a tool you can buy to clean the bar grove
out. I do this if I am in really dry logs. You can make one out of a hacksaw blade quite easy.
Just grind a half inch point on the file blade that will fit in the bar grove and you are in business
and go from the sprocket back to end of the bar. Then with compressed air give it a good blow
out and make sure you do the oiler holes as well.

 

[Alan]

I really appreciate you taking the time to provide clear and practical advice for everyone.

 

[Enginedoc]

The two metal strips that are part of hanging folders in a file cabinet sometimes become separated from the paper. When that happens I save them to use as groove cleaners. The ends of the strips have "hooks" on them that serve well as scrapers to get the debris out of the grooves.

 

[Alan]

Yeah, they can surely be used as scrapers again. I really appreciate the creativity, it's a smart way to give them a new purpose.