Hi guys I have a makita chainsaw and I need to sharpen the blade, how do I work out what size file I need ? is it just something that will fit or is there a specific requirement in relation to the blade size.
Thanks in advance Norm
As above - there will be a specific size and angle you need to use. If you don't know what chain is fitted, have a look for the specifications of that chainsaw to see what it most likely had fitted when it was new. It'll say what size file you need.
I have different length bars for my Stihl, but only use one type of chain as it makes it easier for sharpening purposes. For the 3/8" Stihl chain you need a 5.2mm file.
Not the easiest, item to sharpen. If you don't know what you are doing you can quickly scrap the chain. Either buy a fence, or one of the electric sharpeners.
The Electric ones are better as they take an equal amount off each tooth, without you having to figure it out
But the cheep ones have so much play in them they can scrap a chain at record speed! Oregon do some good online instructions on how to sharpen or get a powersharp chain, bar and sharpner
Never had a problem with Stihl chains, using Stihl files to be honest. They show the procedure quite well in the manual that comes with the chainsaw. One of my chains is close to it's last reduction of guide height before it's scrap, but in terms of the round file sharpening of the teeth, as long as you keep the angles right there's little to go wrong. Or are Stihl chains that much different to other brands?
I also find giving the chains a good soaking in petrol and a clean up with a brush every few times they're off for sharpening to remove all the gum and varnish from the links helps a lot in reducing the amount of work the chainsaw has to do which means the teeth cut with less effort so don't go blunt so quickly.