Albert Einstein said, “People love chopping wood. In this activity one immediately sees results”.
And, it’s true - there are not many physical gardening tasks more rewarding than chopping wood; even more so when performed with a STIHL chainsaw.
At Sunshine Coast Mowers, we are the experts when it comes to wood cutting equipment, mainly chainsaws and chainsaw maintenance.
Our team have serviced almost every chainsaw on the market; and seen our fair share of chainsaw damage due to the owners failing to take care of the equipment.
A chainsaw should last a lifetime if maintained properly and service regularly. This will not only maximise the life of the tool but also save you money in the long-run.
Our team at Sunshine Coast Mowers can recommend a number of STIHL chainsaw options for any job, as well as provide some handy tips for maintaining your chainsaw in the long run.
Our top tips for maintaining your chainsaw:
Clean after every use
Cleaning your chainsaw after every use is the best way to make them last. And remember, before cleaning any petrol-powered tools make sure the machine has cooled down. Petrol-powered machines should be washed with warm soapy water and a soft brush. Never use a high-pressure cleaner on STIHL products of any kind. This can cause serious damage and lead to expensive repairs.
Emptying the fuel tank
Empty the fuel tank in a well-ventilated place and then clean it. Remember to drain the carburettor first, to prevent the carburettor diaphragms from sticking together.
Dismantling chainsaws if not in use
Remove the chain and guide bar, clean them and spray them with protective oil. If you’re planning to store petrol-powered equipment for more than three months without use, drain and rinse the fuel tank in a well-ventilated area and dispose of fuel correctly.
Store in a dry place
Your chainsaw should be stored in a dry place. Choose an area which is well ventilated and protected from the weather. Keeping it outdoors is not advisable. If you’re planning to store your chainsaw for more than three months without use, remove the bar and chain and spray with a corrosion inhibitor and chain lube to prevent rust.
Protect from the sun
Store the machine away from the direct rays of the sun. Exposure to the sun's rays causes UV embrittlement.
Staying dust free
Your chainsaw should always be packed away in a dust-free environment. STIHL has a line of special carry bags and cases to protect your machine.