How to easily fix a chainsaw oil leak

The information in this article may not apply exactly to your specific appliance model. For the most accurate guidance, it’s best to check your manufacturer’s documentation or reach out to us if you have any questions.

Why chainsaws leak oil

A little oil around your chainsaw is normal, but if you’re finding puddles or noticing your oil tank draining when the saw’s not in use, it might be time to inspect the oil line, cap, and seals. Regular cleaning and proper storage can go a long way in keeping things tidy.

It’s actually designed to “leak” a little

• Chainsaws automatically lubricate the bar and chain using bar oil.
• When the saw is sitting (especially on its side), some oil can seep out of the oil tank vent or onto the bar, this is normal.
• Many users mistake this for a leak when it’s just leftover oil dripping off the chain or from inside the housing.

Overfilling the oil tank

• Filling the bar oil reservoir to the brim can cause pressure to build up.
• Once the saw is stored (especially in a warm place), that pressure forces oil out through the cap or vent.

The oil cap or tank vent is faulty

• A loose, damaged, or poorly sealed oil cap can let oil leak out during use or storage.
• If the tank vent is clogged or faulty, pressure may force oil out somewhere it shouldn’t go.

Oil line is cracked or disconnected

• Over time, the flexible oil line that carries bar oil from the tank to the bar can crack, loosen, or dry out.
• This can cause steady drips or even pools of oil under your saw.

Gasket or seal is worn

• Inside the saw, especially near the oil pump or tank, gaskets and seals can wear out, especially on older or heavily-used saws.
• That lets oil leak out even when the saw isn’t running.

Storing the saw improperly

• Storing your saw flat on its side or with the bar down can let oil collect and seep out more easily.
• Try storing it with the bar upright or on a surface that won’t absorb oil to reduce mess and make leaks easier to monitor.

Safety precautions   

When working on any appliance, remember to keep safety first. Here are some tips to keep in mind:

• If working indoors, make sure there is adequate ventilation to prevent the buildup of exhaust fumes. Carbon monoxide poisoning can be a serious risk.
• Wear insulated work gloves to protect your hands from sharp metal parts, pinching hazards and debris.
• Never attempt to service or repair while it is running or when the engine is still warm. Wait for all moving parts to come to a complete stop.
• Exercise extreme caution when working near blades, augers, or any other moving parts. Keep your hands, fingers, and clothing clear of these areas at all times.
• If the appliance has recently been used, give it plenty of time for any hot parts to cool down before working on it. 
• Empty the gas tank before beginning any work. Refill using fresh fuel. 
• Clean up oil spills right away to prevent slipping or other damage. 
• When working with wires, avoid touching any exposed wires or terminals. If you need to touch a wire, use a non-conductive tool or wear insulating gloves to prevent electrical shock.
• Take your time and don’t rush while working to prevent accidents and personal injuries.
• Work in a well-lit area so you can clearly see and access the interior parts.
• Clear your workspace of clutter and other obstacles. Keep children and pets away from the work area.
• Be gentle when handling or removing parts. Excessive force might damage the appliance or cause injury.
• Wear safety glasses when working with chemicals, dust or cleaning large debris to prevent injury. 
• When not in use, store the machine in a safe and dry location.

Steps to fix a leaking chainsaw

When you spot oil leaks, it’s tempting to ignore them, but that’s a bad idea. Leaking oil wastes lubricant, makes a slippery mess, and can mess with your saw’s performance. The good news? You can usually fix these problems at home. Here’s how to tackle them step by step.

Clean the chainsaw thoroughly

1. Wipe down the entire saw with a rag to remove any built-up oil and sawdust.
2. Use compressed air or a soft brush to clear around the oil cap, bar, and chain area.
3. This helps you spot where the oil is actually coming from, not just where it ended up.

Check the oil tank cap

1. Inspect the oil cap for cracks, worn threads, or a damaged rubber gasket.
2. Tighten it firmly and see if that helps reduce the leak.
3. Replace the cap or gasket if it looks worn or doesn’t seal tightly.

Inspect the oil tank vent

1. Locate the oil tank vent (usually a small rubber valve).
2. If it’s clogged, it can create pressure that forces oil out.
3. Clean it gently or replace it if it looks damaged or blocked.

Examine the oil line

1. Remove the side cover and, if needed, the bar and chain.
2. Look for the oil line inside the saw, it runs from the oil tank to the bar oiler.
3. Check for cracks, kinks, or loose connections.
4. Replace the oil line if it’s damaged or brittle (most are inexpensive and easy to swap).

Check the bar oiler and outlet hole

1. Clean the oil delivery hole in the bar, it can get clogged with sawdust and gum up the flow.
2. Use a small pick or wire to clear any blockages.

Inspect the oil pump (optional for advanced DIYers)

1. If oil is pouring out while the saw sits still and the above steps don’t help, the oil pump might be worn or stuck open.
2. This may require disassembling more of the saw or checking for stripped gears or failed seals.
3. Replace the oil pump if necessary (be sure to get the exact match for your chainsaw model).

Store the chainsaw properly

1. Even after fixing a leak, storing your saw properly makes a big difference.
2. Keep it upright with the bar pointing down or resting on a catch tray or absorbent mat to contain any residual drip.

Test it after reassembly

1. Fill the oil tank about halfway.
2. Run the saw for a minute or two, then shut it off and check for new leaks.
3. Let it sit overnight on a clean surface to confirm everything’s sealed up.

Pro Tip: If you don’t plan to use the chainsaw for a while, drain the bar oil before storing it, this can prevent long-term seepage and reduce mess.

Keep your chainsaw in top condition

If you need any replacement parts for your appliances, you can enter your model number at AppliancePartsPros.com to locate and order them. Most orders arrive in just two business days, and we have tons of great information in our repair help section and YouTube videos to help you troubleshoot.

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