Maintain a chainsaw



Based on NZQA 43 This unit standard is designed for professional users of chainsaws in the forestry and other industries. People credited with this unit are able to: demonstrate knowledge of the chainsaw cutting unit; sharpen a chainsaw chain; and maintain a chainsaw power unit.


 * Library of resources
 * Learning activities

This unit is used in the following courses

 * Horticulture

Demonstrate knowledge of the chainsaw cutting unit
 Range: cutters (left and right), side straps, drive tangs, rivets, depth gauges. Range: chisel, semi chisel. Range: spur, rim. Range: sprocket and chain for pitch, bar and chain for gauge. Range: jointing tool, file guide, stump vice, callipers, file, file handle. Range: solid nose, sprocket tip. Range: uneven cutter lengths and angles, incorrect chain tension, chain wear, insufficient lubrication, worn drive and nose sprocket, incorrect depth gauge settings, damage and/or wear to the guide bar. Range: sprocket replacement, bar dressing.
 * Cutting unit components are identified by name and function.
 * Cutter profiles and uses are described.
 * Sprocket types are explained in terms of their characteristics.
 * The terms pitch and gauge are explained in relation to a chainsaw chain.
 * Cutting unit components that must be matched are explained.
 * Filing tools for sharpening a chainsaw chain are described.
 * Chainsaw bar configurations are described in terms of maintenance requirements.
 * Cutting unit faults are described and means to rectify explained.
 * Periodic maintenance requirements of a chainsaw cutting unit are explained.
 * Requirements for running in a new chain are explained.

Sharpen a chainsaw chain
Range: correctly tensioned, correct file size, use of filing aids as required, uniform cutter length, filing angles, depth gauge settings. Range: straight cuts, smooth cutting, cutting efficiency.
 * Chain cutter condition is evaluated during use for cutting efficiency.
 * Safe maintenance area is selected, clear of tree felling, moving logs, ropes or machinery, and clear of other workers.
 * Chain is consistently sharpened, on the saw, to manufacturer’s recommendations.
 * Sharpened chain is tested.

Maintain a chainsaw power unit
Range: daily, periodic. Range: cutting unit and covers are removed. Range: filter, inverting bar, power head, cutting unit, visual check for wear, damage or security. Range: clean or replace - filters, spark plug; service - starter mechanism, clutch, fuel and oil tanks, cooling system, ignition system.
 * Maintenance intervals recommended by manufacturer are stated.
 * Chainsaw is prepared for daily maintenance.
 * Tools suitable for each maintenance task are identified and correctly used.
 * Components are checked, cleaned, maintained or replaced according to manufacturer’s recommendations.
 * Chainsaw is reassembled and adjusted according to manufacturer’s recommendations.
 * Periodic maintenance requirements of a chainsaw power head are explained in accordance with manufacturer’s recommendations.
 * Need for specialist repairs beyond the scope of field maintenance is recognised as required.