How to test and replace a chainsaw oil pump

Let’s face it, working on a chainsaw can be pretty daunting, especially when it’s your go-to for those heavy-duty cutting jobs. You want to keep it running like a champ without worrying about it overheating or the chain wearing out too soon. One of the key factors here is proper lubrication, all thanks to the oil pump. In this guide, we’ll show you how to test and replace a chainsaw oil pump so your machine keeps performing at its best without unnecessary downtime or mishaps.

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 the oil pump matters

The oil pump on a chainsaw may not seem like a big deal, but it’s one of the most important components when it comes to keeping your saw running safely and efficiently. Its job is to automatically deliver bar and chain oil while the saw is running. This lubrication is critical, without it, the chain and bar would quickly overheat, wear out, or even seize up.

Here’s why the oil pump matters:

• Reduces friction and heat: The oil pump ensures a steady flow of oil to the chain, which keeps it sliding smoothly around the bar. Less friction = less heat and longer-lasting parts.
• Protects your chain and bar: Proper lubrication helps prevent dulling, scuffing, or warping of the chain and bar. It extends the lifespan of both.
• Improves cutting performance: A well-oiled chain cuts faster and cleaner. If the chain isn’t properly lubricated, it can drag, bind, or cause uneven cuts.
• Reduces kickback risk: Dry or sticky chains can snag in the wood, increasing the chance of sudden kickback, something no one wants to deal with.
• Keeps sawdust from clogging the chain groove: Oil helps carry debris away and keeps everything moving freely.

Most chainsaws have either a fixed or adjustable oil pump. Adjustable ones are handy because they let you control how much oil is dispensed based on the type of wood you’re cutting or the length of your bar.

Signs your chainsaw oil pump needs attention

A failing or clogged oil pump can lead to serious wear and tear on your chainsaw. Here’s how to tell if something’s not right with the oiling system:

• Chain looks dry while running: If the chain is dry or shiny with no oil residue, the pump may not be delivering enough (or any) oil. 
• Chain burns or smokes while cutting: Friction from a dry chain can cause heat buildup, leading to smoke, even without touching the wood too hard.
• Bar and chain wear out faster than normal: Excessive wear, dulling, or visible scoring on the bar and chain can be caused by lack of proper lubrication.
• Poor cutting performance: If your saw is struggling to cut or feels like it’s dragging, the chain may not be properly oiled.
• No oil spray test results: Run the saw at full throttle with the bar tip pointed at a light-colored surface (like cardboard or wood). If you don’t see a light mist or splatter of oil, your pump likely isn’t working.
• Oil tank stays full: If you’re using your chainsaw regularly but the bar oil level isn’t going down, the oil isn’t flowing like it should.
• Oil leaking from strange places: While a little oil seepage is normal, heavy leaking around the clutch cover or under the saw may mean the oil pump or line is damaged.
• Visible clogs in the oil port or bar groove: Sawdust buildup can block oil flow, check and clean these spots if oiling seems off.

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.

How to test a chainsaw oil pump

Testing your oil pump can help you figure out if it needs replacing or if the issue is somewhere else, like a clogged port or a damaged oil line. Gather up some basic tools: usually, a small flathead screwdriver or hex driver, pliers, safety gloves, and eye protection will do the trick.

1. Check the oil level: Make sure the oil tank is filled up with the right bar and chain oil. If it’s running low, your saw won’t get proper lubrication.
2. Clean the oil outlets: Wipe down the oil outlet ports on the chainsaw body and the bar to get rid of any sawdust or debris blocking the oil flow.
3. Test the oil flow: With the saw off, put a piece of cardboard or paper on the ground. Fire up the chainsaw and hold it over the surface at medium speed. If you see oil splattering on the surface, that’s a good sign oil’s coming through properly.
4. Check the oil filter and line: If oil isn’t making it to the chain, take a look at the oil filter inside the tank for clogs and make sure the oil line isn’t damaged or blocked.
5. Adjust the oil pump (if you’ve got one): If your saw has an adjustable oil pump, double-check that the adjustment screw is set right for proper oil flow. Your manual will have the specifics.
6. Remove the bar and chain: If the problem’s still there, turn off the saw and disconnect the spark plug wire or battery if needed. Take off the side cover, remove the chain, and slide off the bar to get direct access to the oil outlet.
7. Check oil flow from the outlet: With the bar and chain off, start the engine briefly at low speed. Watch if oil comes out of the oil outlet. Wear your safety gear and only run it for a moment. If no oil shows up, it’s time to look at the oil pump itself.
8. Inspect the oil pump and drive gear: Look for any physical damage to the oil pump or drive gear. A busted gear or stripped threads can stop the pump from working right.

How to replace a chainsaw oil pump

1. Get the chainsaw ready: Disconnect or remove the spark plug wire. You don’t want the saw starting up while you’re working. Empty the oil tank by pouring any leftover bar and chain oil into a safe container.
2. Take off the chain and bar: Remove the side cover. Lift the chain off the sprocket and slide the bar away from the saw. Give the bar a good clean to get rid of wood chips and old oil gunk.
3. Access the oil pump: Depending on your chainsaw model, you might need to remove some extra covers or unscrew a few bolts holding the oil pump. Some saws have a gear-driven pump right under the clutch assembly.
4. Remove the clutch (if needed): Certain models require you to take off the clutch drum to reach the oil pump. If that’s the case, follow your manual’s instructions for removing the clutch. You might need a special clutch removal tool, or you might have to secure the piston to loosen the clutch nut. Remember, threads can be reversed on some chainsaws, so pay attention.
5. Take out the old pump: Carefully remove any screws or clips holding the pump in place. Slide the old pump away from the engine housing, noting how the drive gear or worm gear is positioned. Check any small plastic or metal drive parts for wear or damage.
6. Install the new pump: Put the new oil pump in the housing just like the old one was. Make sure the drive gear meshes correctly. Sometimes the gear or worm is separate, so check the alignment so the pump turns freely.
7. Put everything back together: Secure the pump with the right screws. If you removed the clutch drum, reinstall it, and put back any covers. Double-check that everything lines up and moves smoothly.
8. Refill and test: Fill up the oil tank with fresh bar and chain oil. Reconnect the spark plug wire, then start the chainsaw for a quick test. Look for steady oil flow to the bar. Don’t rev the engine too high until you’re sure it’s lubing properly.

Now that you’ve got a new oil pump in place, your chainsaw should be delivering plenty of oil to the chain. Swapping out the pump helps your tool last longer and keeps you cutting smoothly.  

Maintain reliable lubrication and keep cutting

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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