How to Store a CHAINSAW (2 Important things you must do first)

The Importance of Proper Chainsaw Storage: A Quick Guide to Saving Time and Money

As we head into the off-season, it's essential to think about how to properly store our chainsaws for an extended period. In this quick tips video, I'll share two main things that can help ensure your chainsaw is in top condition when you need it again, saving you time and money on potential repair bills.

The First Thing: Draining the Fuel

If you've been using your chainsaw all season without any issues, there's a good chance that the fuel has started to degrade over time. Gasoline fuel is only at its best for up to six weeks old, and if not properly drained, it can lead to engine problems when you need it most. This is especially true if you've used a fuel stabilizer, which can prevent degradation but may not be enough to guarantee proper performance.

To avoid this issue, I recommend draining the fuel from your chainsaw's tank, pipes, and carburetor before storing it for an extended period. The best way to do this is by running the engine until it stops, allowing as much of the fuel as possible to burn off from the fuel pipes and carburetor. This simple step can help prevent stale fuel from causing engine problems when you need your chainsaw again.

The Second Thing: Lubricating the Chain

Another crucial aspect of proper chainsaw storage is lubricating the chain before storing it for an extended period. A well-lubricated chain will help prevent rust and corrosion, ensuring that your chainsaw is ready to go when you need it next season. However, if you've stored your chainsaw for several months without properly lubricating the chain, you may find that it's rusty and in need of replacement.

To avoid this issue, I recommend running your chainsaw with plenty of bar oil before storing it for an extended period. This will coat the chain and help prevent rust and corrosion, making it easier to use when you come back to it next season. By following these two simple steps, you can help ensure that your chainsaw is in top condition when you need it again, saving you time and money on potential repair bills.

Additional Tips for Proper Chainsaw Storage

While the two steps I mentioned above are essential, there are other things you can do to prepare your chainsaw for storage. Having a full service or deep thorough clean can help extend the life of your chainsaw, but it's not necessary if you follow the two main steps I've outlined above.

If you're interested in learning more about how to properly store and maintain your chainsaw, I have another step-by-step video on my YouTube channel that covers this topic in detail. Additionally, you can download a printable checklist by clicking on the link provided in the description below this video. This checklist will help you stay organized and ensure that you're following best practices for storing and maintaining your chainsaw.

Conclusion

Proper chainsaw storage is essential for extending the life of your machine and ensuring it's ready to go when you need it next season. By draining the fuel from your tank, pipes, and carburetor, and lubricating the chain before storing it, you can help prevent engine problems and rust. While there are other steps you can take to prepare your chainsaw for storage, these two main things will give you the best chance of success. Thank you for watching this video, and I'll be back soon with more tips and tricks for maintaining your equipment.