How to remove a sprocket from a chainsaw: features you need to know
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 a chainsaw sprocket, when and why you need to change a chainsaw sprocket, types of chainsaw sprockets, whether replacing a sprocket is different in a Chinese, Russian or European chainsaw.
To remove the sprocket from the chainsaw, you need:
- Unscrew the retaining bolts and remove the protective cover.
- Get the chain and bar.
- Disconnect the air filter with cover.
- Disconnect the clutch using a special key (included in the kit/you can buy a universal one/available only 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 replaced - the frame with the crown, it is a one-piece structure. The collapsible one is changed depending on the situation. Inspect it: if there is no serious damage to the frame, only the crown is replaced.
After replacement, reassemble the housing:
Insert the clutch, attach the air filter and its cover; if during the disassembly process you had to unscrew the spark plug, screw it back in, install the chain with the bar, secure the housing and tighten the bolts, but not too much. At this stage, you will need to tension the chain, and then tighten the clamping bolts. Your chain should not sag - weak tension, but should not go too tightly (try to turn it by hand, you should not use much force) - strong tension.
Is it different to replace a sprocket 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 and 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 using the same instructions.
The content of the article
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 consisting of a frame, a clutch plate, a spline mount and a rim. The whisk cannot be obtained separately. Such devices are cheaper than dismountable chainsaw sprockets - $5-7, but they wear out faster and are not economical to replace - you will have to replace the entire structure, not just one part, despite the fact that the frame/plate hardly wears out. Such sprockets are used in budget, Chinese and Russian chainsaws.
The second is a design of two elements: the clutch frame/plate and the rim. The whisk fits freely into the plate and can be taken out separately. Sprockets of this type are more expensive than solid ones - about 20 dollars, but they are cheaper to replace - replacing one beater is cheaper. Installed in European, premium and professional chainsaws.
Why might it be necessary to replace the sprocket on a chainsaw?
Firstly, due to natural reasons - the chainsaw is used, the chain rotates, the sprocket transmits torque to the chain, and during operation its teeth are worn out 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, and ceases to be smooth - overall performance decreases.
The chain may get stuck or jam. For some reason, the chain gets stuck in the sprocket teeth. It is prohibited to use such a tool due to the high risk of injury.
The chain is too tight or there is no oil/lubricant. When this happens, friction between it and the tire increases, so the engine has to work harder to turn the chain. If there is no oil, friction also increases. The sprocket is a transferable link; it wears out with increased effort.
Defect. It can be technological - a defective sprocket. Or acquired - while working with the wrong chain, an incorrectly installed chainsaw chain.
You decide to replace the chain with a new one. If you want to replace the chain, you also need to change the sprocket. If the old sprocket has been used for a long time, and a new chain is installed on it, then there is a high risk that the chain may break, fly off, peel off and sag. It could also be due to improper tension.
When should you change the sprocket on a chainsaw?
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.
- Wear on the teeth of the star, abraded metal, scratches, chips and other damage should not exceed a depth of half a millimeter.
- During operation, increased noise and strong vibration.
- The chain moves jerkily, slips, sags (may be poorly tensioned).
