Remove chain, bar
Loosen the two nuts holding the guide bar and slacken the chain by loosening the chain tensioner. Remove the chain sprocket cover, bar and chain to expose the drive sprocket.
Clean out any debris and check that the chain catcher is intact. This nondescript little lug has the rather important function. It makes sure that, if the chain breaks or derails, it doesn’t wrap itself around some part of your anatomy.

Air filter
Remove the air filter cover and close off the choke to prevent dirt falling into the carburettor inlet. Remove and clean or replace the air filter. It’s a good idea to replace the air filter at least every service but at least clean it by blowing it out every day. If the saw is being used in especially dusty or dirty conditions it pays to change the filter more regularly.

Fuel
Drain any old fuel (older than six weeks) and clean the tank. Replace the fuel filter if dirty. Check fuel lines for perishing/cracks, replace if required.

Read more in the June/July 2010 issue of The Shed