CHAINSAW MAINTENANCE
A Comprehensive Guide to Chainsaw Maintenance
​
-
This manual is a comprehensive, up-to-date guide designed to support both new and experienced chainsaw users. Packed with the latest industry knowledge, it applies to all makes and models of chainsaws, making it the perfect companion for any operator.
-
Whether you're preparing for the NPTC Chainsaw Maintenance and Cross-Cutting Course or simply want to keep your saw running at peak performance, this manual covers everything you need in a clear, practical format.
-
Step-by-step instructions with clear explanations and detailed images.
-
Maintenance procedures for cleaning, sharpening, chain tensioning, lubrication, safety checks, and more.
-
Troubleshooting tables to help you identify common issues and fix them quickly.
-
Essential knowledge aligned with LANTRA and NPTC courses and assessment standards.
-
Suitable for tree surgeons, arborists, forestry workers, landscapers, landowners, and anyone who owns or operates a chainsaw.
-
This manual is not just for passing your course—it's for building lasting skills that make you a safer, more competent operator.
Example page on an In-Board Clutch:
The two positions of the clutch assembly are inboard or outboard.
The advantages and disadvantages are always debated and can come down to personal preference.
Generally speaking, an outboard clutch tends to make the chainsaw body thinner and more gyroscopically manoeuvrable when undertaking tasks like snedding.
An inboard clutch can make the body slightly wider but easier to change the sprocket.
- First remove the E-clip with a small screwdriver or similar.
​
- Remove the washer, sprocket and clutch drum.
This is an excellent time to inspect and/or replace your sprocket.
​
- Also remove the needle bearing. It should also be examined, greased and replaced if necessary.​​
​- Inspect the clutch drum for any damage, cracks, debris and wear. Clean as necessary.
​
- Inspect the clutch springs and clips. Over time the clutch springs can eat into the clutch weights or stretch, causing the assembly to malfunction and eventually snap or pull through the weights.
​
- To remove the clutch weights, first remove the spark plug and insert the correct piston stop.
​
- Use a combi spanner or manufacturer’s specific tool to turn assembly clockwise to loosen.
​
Always remember when replacing the clutch drum to align the cut out notch to the oil pump arm below.
If this is not done it can damage the arm and render the oil pump useless and not functioning correctly.
CROSS CUTTING
A Comprehensive Guide to Cross Cutting Timber
​
-
This manual delivers clear, detailed guidance on how to cut timber safely, efficiently, and to professional standards. It’s designed for anyone who needs to understand cross-cutting techniques, from complete beginners to seasoned chainsaw operators preparing for the NPTC Chainsaw Maintenance and Cross-Cutting Course (0039-20).
-
Whether you're managing woodland, working in arboriculture, or simply learning how to use your chainsaw correctly, this manual walks you through everything with step-by-step instructions and illustrative diagrams.
-
Safe and effective timber handling practices.
-
Cross-cutting methods used in industry and NPTC assessments.
-
Techniques for snedding, processing windblown timber, and cutting felled trees.
-
Key elements of site safety, risk assessment, and personal protective equipment.
-
How to start, hold, and operate a chainsaw with control and confidence.
-
Visual diagrams and photos to support every step.
-
This manual doesn’t just show you how—it helps you understand why, so you can develop the right habits, pass your assessment, and stay safe in real-world environments.
Example page on Work Positioning:
The body and head position are the most important aspect of using a chainsaw and should not be underestimated. You do not want the chainsaw to kickback into your head or neck area.
If your work position is correct you will find it more ergonomic, less tiring and above all, a lot safer. You will be able to cut comfortably for longer and in turn less likely to make mistakes because of tiredness.
Raise the timber to waist height if possible, this will reduce the time spent cutting with a bent back. Whatever the position of the timber, try to keep a staight back and the chainsaw close to your body, don’t over reach.
- Position yourself with the chainsaw on your right hand side.
- Your left thumb should always be wrapped around the handle.
- Hold the chainsaw close to yourself and use your body and legs to support some of its weight.
- Aim to keep a straight back.
- Ensure your head is NOT over the guidebar.
- If the timber is low or on the floor, crouch down or use one knee to support yourself.
-Always stand on the uphill side when working with the timber.
- Avoid kneeling on both knees as this may hinder your escape if the timber moves or rolls towards you.
Keep the chainsaw on your right hand side, your feet pointing in front of you and in the same direction as the chainsaw.
If the position of the chainsaw moves, move your feet to match the direction. This should keep your body in line and your head out the way.
