Echo 18" CS420 - Chain keeps popping off and getting burred up...

[5030]

I'll use the Silky over any chainsaw on small stuff. Uses no gasoline, don't have to be started and it actually provides some exercise.... power saws have their place. small branches isn't that place...imo.

 

[varmint]

"Run the chain from the master link, (where two teeth are on the same side of the chain in sequence)..." Whoa! Are you saying that is normal? When I got my Echo CS490, it wouldn't cut straight down- I tried sharpening, checked the bar on a flat plate, etc., and finally decided that because I had two teeth cutting on the same side, in a row, that was the reason it cut towards the right, no matter how careful I was. When I replaced the chain with a non-safety chain, it cut not only much faster, but straight. Now, after 4 or 5 sharpenings, it still cuts great. I hate to waste the chain it came with (basically, it was new) but I think I will have the same problem if I put it back on.

 

[s219]

"Run the chain from the master link, (where two teeth are on the same side of the chain in sequence)..." Whoa! Are you saying that is normal? When I got my Echo CS490, it wouldn't cut straight down- I tried sharpening, checked the bar on a flat plate, etc., and finally decided that because I had two teeth cutting on the same side, in a row, that was the reason it cut towards the right, no matter how careful I was. When I replaced the chain with a non-safety chain, it cut not only much faster, but straight. Now, after 4 or 5 sharpenings, it still cuts great. I hate to waste the chain it came with (basically, it was new) but I think I will have the same problem if I put it back on.

It's totally normal to see two same-handed cutters next to each other where the chain is joined. It should not bias the chain or be noticeable. Depends on the drive link count -- whether it's odd or even.

 

[davesl708]

Its not normal for chainsaws to throw chains. My saw has gone through 5 chains sharpened many times and have never thrown a chain. I cut 1/2" to 42" trees.
Are the chains stretching so much that they are coming out of the guides?

 

[MossflowerWoods]

Well I'M confused reading this..
Is this a saw Echo CS400 or 420 like the title says

Sorry, typo. It is a CS 400.

Thanks,
David

 

[MossflowerWoods]

Notes for the record...

When I was using it (have not used it in months now) it cut straight, and it cut fast. I agree it revs up and down fast, and has good power.

I have WAY TOO MANY complete tree tops to hand cut the little stuff. Some times I'm just cutting swaths of tree top in 7-8' sections so I can just grab with grapple and toss on burn pile.

I'm gonna be cutting tomorrow I think, so maybe I will test the Echo again (until the chain pops off 1st time).

Thanks,
David

 

[DFB]

Ok here's my take

If you have the proper chain...length, pitch, and gauge for the bar and if the bar tip is not bad, and you are getting the chain wrapped correctly on the drive sprocket then the notched bar end isn't in right before tightening the nuts down so it moves slightly when you run the saw and the chain jumps. Make sure the tensioner is backed off enough so the bar gets fully positioned right.

I have experienced similar but if you take the time to look you can figure where the problem.

Clean out the all crap good behind the cover and around the tensioner slide

 

[roadhunter]

I've got a cs-400 and have never had this problem. Something's not right with the saw.

 

[MossflowerWoods]

Ok here's my take

If you have the proper chain...length, pitch, and gauge for the bar and if the bar tip is not bad, and you are getting the chain wrapped correctly on the drive sprocket then the notched bar end isn't in right before tightening the nuts down so it moves slightly when you run the saw and the chain jumps. Make sure the tensioner is backed off enough so the bar gets fully positioned right.

I have experienced similar but if you take the time to look you can figure where the problem.

Clean out the all crap good behind the cover and around the tensioner slide

Interesting... You would not be able to take a picture would you?

Now that I think about it, I seem to recall I did not have this problem the first couple times I used the saw, only AFTER I changed the chain the first (and every time after that?) ?

As I see it there really are only 2 options, #1 - I did something wrong an #2 - Something is wrong/broke... Odds favor #1 regretfully...

Be well,
David

 

[tcreeley]

I've had a small McCullough, a Stihl, and a 266 Husky that I put an 18" bar on to replace the 20" bar. I sharpen my chains, replace if I need to. I've never had a chain come off. I tension them to the point where I can slide the chain with my hand with some resistance. Too tight and it overheats the bar. Too sloppy- just not good. I always grease my tip through the small holes and push greaser. Making sure it is getting bar oil is important. Whether my saw cuts left or right depends on if I filed it so it does that! Good luck.