Chainsaw cuts too slowly: Common causes and fixes

If your chainsaw’s dragging through wood instead of slicing cleanly, it’s downright frustrating and slows you down. Maybe the chain’s dull, or there’s something else going on. We’re going to look at common causes for a slow-cutting chainsaw and show you a few easy fixes you can try yourself.

The info in this article might not match your exact chainsaw model. We do our best to give helpful DIY advice, but different models can have different troubleshooting steps, error codes, part replacements, and so on. For the most accurate guidance, you should check your manufacturer’s documentation or reach out to us if you’ve got any questions.

Why your chainsaw cuts too slowly

There are a bunch of reasons your chainsaw might be cutting slow. Chainsaws need a strong engine, a sharp and well-tensioned chain, and a lubed-up bar to slice through wood like butter. When something’s off, the cutting speed takes a hit. Let’s check out the main culprits behind a sluggish chainsaw and how to fix them.

Dull chain

A dull chain is probably the number one reason your chainsaw’s having trouble. Even if the engine’s purring along, if the chain’s lost its edge, it just can’t bite into the wood like it should, making cutting a real chore. You need sharp teeth on that chain to slice through wood fibers smoothly instead of just grinding away. Signs of a dull chain:

• The saw pulls to one side when cutting, might mean the teeth are unevenly sharpened.
• You’re getting fine sawdust instead of those chunky wood chips, a sign the teeth aren’t doing their job.
• The chainsaw’s smoking or getting too hot, increased friction from a dull chain can cause this.

To fix a dull chain, you can sharpen it yourself or just replace it with a new one. Be sure to follow your saw’s manual for the right specs, or check out how to find your appliance’s model number if you need help figuring out the right chain for your saw.

How to sharpen or replace a dull chain

1. Turn off and secure: Make sure the chainsaw’s turned off and unplugged. For gas models, pull off the spark plug wire. Engage the chain brake to lock things in place.
2. Remove the chain: Loosen the guide bar nuts and ease the bar forward to release tension. Carefully lift the chain off, watching out for sharp edges.
3. Inspect the chain: Check out each tooth. If they’re chipped or really worn down, you might be better off just getting a new chain.
4. Sharpen if needed: If the chain’s salvageable, use a round file that fits the teeth. Keep the right angle and file each tooth evenly.
5. Adjust depth gauges: Those little bumps between the teeth (rakers) might need filing down after sharpening the teeth.
6. Put the chain back on: Reinstall the chain on the bar, making sure it’s sitting right in the guide track. Adjust the tension so it’s snug but not too tight.
7. Oil it up: Before you fire it up again, check that the bar and chain oil reservoir is filled. Lubrication keeps things running smoothly.

Improper chain tension

Having the right chain tension is super important. If it’s too tight, you’ll strain the engine and the bar; too loose, and the chain can slip or even come off, definitely not safe, and you’ll lose cutting power too. Getting it just right helps the motor do its job properly. Signs of chain tension problems:

• Lots of rattling or vibration when you’re cutting.
• The chain is sagging away from the bar.
• You can’t turn the chain by hand easily (means it’s too tight).
• Messy cuts or the chain seems to skip.

If the tension’s not right, your saw cuts slower, and you could be risking safety or damaging the bar and drive system. The good news is, you can fix chain tension yourself with a few easy steps.

How to adjust chain tension

1. Find the tensioning screw: Usually it’s near the clutch cover on the side. Check your manual if you’re not sure.
2. Loosen the bar nuts: Loosen the nuts holding the bar, don’t take them off, just loosen them so the bar can move.
3. Adjust the tension screw: If the chain’s too loose, tighten the screw to pull the bar out and tighten the chain. If it’s too tight, loosen it a bit.
4. Check the slack: Pull the chain in the middle of the bar. It should snap back into place, and the drive links shouldn’t come all the way out of the groove.
5. Tighten the bar nuts: Once it’s adjusted right, tighten those nuts back up. Engage the chain brake and make sure the chain still moves smoothly when the brake is off.

Engine power issues

If your engine’s not running strong, the chain won’t spin as fast, and cutting speed will suffer. Gas chainsaws need the right fuel mix, clean air filters, and a good spark. Electric ones need steady voltage and a well-kept motor. Common causes of engine power loss:

• Dirty air filter or a clogged carburetor.
• Stale or wrong fuel mix (for gas chainsaws).
• A worn-out spark plug that can’t ignite the fuel properly.
• Electric motor overheating because of bad ventilation.

How to restore engine power

1. Check the air filter: For gas chainsaws, pop off the cover and look at the air filter. If it’s clogged up with sawdust, clean it or get a new one.
2. Look at the fuel: Dump out any old gas and refill with fresh fuel mixed with the right amount of 2-cycle oil. Bad gas can mess up ignition.
3. Check the spark plug: Pull off the spark plug wire and remove the spark plug. If it’s dirty or worn out, replace it.
4. Tweak the carburetor: If the saw’s running rough, adjust the carburetor screws as per the manufacturer’s instructions. You’re aiming for a smooth idle and good acceleration.
5. Check for air leaks: Worn seals can let extra air in, making the engine run lean. If you think there’s a leak, you can spray soapy water around the seals and look for bubbles. For more help, check out our repair help section.
6. Inspect the electric motor (for electric saws): Unplug the saw and remove any covers to see the motor. Look for overheating signs or burnt wires. If you’re handy with a multimeter, test the motor windings for proper resistance.

Keep your chainsaw running smoothly

If you need parts or have questions about your chainsaw, check out AppliancePartsPros.com. We’ve got chains, bars, spark plugs, filters, you name it, to keep your gear running great. Follow us on Facebook and Twitter for more tips, updates, and guides.

Our team is here to help, so don’t hesitate to reach out with any questions. Let’s keep your chainsaw, and all your appliances, working like new.