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The compression in a chainsaw is what converts fuel into potential energy to run the chainsaw. So, what is a chainsaw compression test? A chainsaw compression test is conducted with a compression test gauge. This measures the level of compression the chainsaw produces. Every chainsaw requires a specific amount of compression. If production is more or less than required, the engine can’t perform properly and may end up shutting down. Read on to find out more! What a chainsaw compression test is A chainsaw compression test measures the level of compression that your chainsaw produces when in use. There are multiple ways to measure the compression of a chainsaw, but the most accurate way is to use a chainsaw compression test gauge. This is a gauge that fastens and seals in the spark plug hole of your chainsaw. Then when you pull on the chainsaw starter rope, it will measure the compression being produced. A chainsaw compression test using the compression test gauge measures the compression through PSI. Most chainsaw compression levels should sit around 110 PSI on a compression test gauge. By conducting a quick chainsaw compression test, you can see if the compression is dropping or increasing. Fluctuating compression levels can be causing other problems for your chainsaw. Without chainsaw compression tests, your chainsaw compression levels could be all over the place. This can end up damaging your chainsaw’s engine and resulting in you having to buy a whole new chainsaw. Performing a chainsaw compression test should be part of your regular chainsaw maintenance routines. The compressed air, when released, in your chainsaw, helps push pistons to fire and the whole chainsaw to function with power. If you don’t regularly check your chainsaw compression while doing chainsaw maintenance, the compression levels could be affecting your chainsaw engine. What is the purpose of a compression test? A compression test is designed to test only the compression levels of your chainsaw. Every chainsaw has its own unique level of recommended compression PSI depending on the brand, manufacturer, and model. Any increase or decrease in compression can lead to a number of problems. Therefore, the purpose of a compression test is to find out whether compression is affecting your chainsaw’s ability to function. Internal engines, like the one inside your chainsaw, use compression to function. Fuel pistons within the chainsaw’s engine mix gasoline and air and spray the mixture into the combustion chamber. Within the chamber, the mixture gets ignited and creates combustion that compresses the cylinders within the engine, powering the chainsaw. This is why compression is such an important factor for chainsaw functionality.  With the importance of good chainsaw compression, you need to know how to perform a chainsaw compression test. Signs that you may need to check your chainsaw compression levels include: Difficulty starting the chainsaw Poor chainsaw performance Miss fires when pulling the start rope Chainsaw won’t start at all An untidy finish A hard-to-control chainsaw Chainsaw kickback What can you use for a chainsaw compression test? The best tool to use for a chainsaw compression test is a chainsaw compression test gauge. These gauges are specifically designed to fit chainsaws, sealing over the spark plug hole. This is important to prevent air from affecting the compression test. When pulling on the starting rope after attaching the test gauge, a needle will flick to indicate the PSI of the chainsaw compression. There is also a chainsaw compression thumb test that you can conduct if you don’t have a compression test gauge. But you won’t get as accurate of a reading with this. It’s better to visit a gardening and construction tools centre to get a proper compression test done if you don’t have the tools. What is a good compression for a chainsaw? For most average-sized chainsaws a good compression reading should be around 110 PSI; for larger chainsaws, 160 PSI is better. But it’s important to note that every chainsaw is different depending on the brand and model. On top of this, the motor capacity and temperature will influence the best compression level for each chainsaw. You can check the recommended PSI for your particular chainsaw by reading the owner’s manual that comes this the chainsaw. A smaller chainsaw will usually have a compression range of between 90 and 110 PSI. A bigger chainsaw will typically have a compression reading closer to 160 PSI. If you get readings too low for an average chainsaw, it might be an indication of a leak of some kind. The leak can be a simple fix, such as tightening a loose component or a little troublesome such as replacing a component. A reading of below 70 PSI indicates a bigger problem and you may have to consult with a professional. Either way, having too high or low chainsaw compression increases the safety risks when using your chainsaw. How much compression does a 2-stroke chainsaw need to run? It’s advisable that a 2-stroke chainsaw maintain a compression reading of between 110 to 130 PSI. A 2-stroke chainsaw works by driving a piston up & down. The initial piston stroke creates a vacuum at the bottom. This vacuum is what sucks fuel up to the top. The piston stroke after ignites the fuel and pushes exhaust from the top.  The compressed air from the initial stroke creates a vacuum that pulls in the fuel. Without an appropriate amount of compression, the fuel can get sucked into the engine. As you can see, the compression needs to be ideal to ensure that the chainsaw functions properly. Luckily, you can easily check the compression of a 2-stroke chainsaw by using the compression test gauge we mentioned earlier! Once you have conducted a chainsaw compression test once, it becomes really easy. You just need to make sure that the test gauge is sealed properly over the spark plug hole. Otherwise, you’re going to end up with incorrect PSI readings. This might lead you to adjust the chainsaw compression and actually make it worse! Then

Diamond saw blades are a handy tool used by home renovators and professionals alike. When maintained properly, they can cut through most materials with ease. Keeping the blade clean is vital in order to preserve its cutting potential. So, how do you clean a diamond saw blade? A diamond saw blade can be cleaned using citrus-based kitchen cleaners mixed with water. The diamond blade is soaked in the solution until dirt comes away. It’s scrubbed with a bristle brush and rinsed under running water. The other method is to saw smooth concrete at full power to clear away grit. Let’s go over some of the basics about diamond saw blades, and how to keep them in the best condition. Why it’s important to clean and maintain your diamond blade Keeping your diamond saw blade clean and well maintained is important to make sure it doesn’t become damaged. A grit—covered blade creates friction and heat, lessening the effectiveness of your saw. To put it simply, if you want your blade to work properly, cleaning and maintenance are important. Regular maintenance of your diamond saw blade will help prolong the life of the blade. When using a diamond saw, you might notice bits of grit appearing on the blade. Or the diamond saw blade might stop cutting through materials as smoothly as it once did. These are both indicators that it’s time to take a closer look and give the diamond blade a good clean. After all, a clean-cut requires a clean blade. Working with a dull blade not only makes the cutting process slower, but it can also pose more of a danger to you. The saw could jump while sawing, causing kickback, and can result in serious injury. Keeping your diamond blade sharp and clean prevents this from happening. You should also know when to replace it as well. Even with proper care and maintenance, your diamond blades will eventually need replacing. When it’s time, be sure to check out the best quality diamond blades around. How to clean your diamond saw blade To look after your diamond saw blades, it’s important to clean them properly. The first thing to do is to examine the blade carefully. Check to see if it’s worn down or if it is just due for a good clean. If the diamond segments embedded are worn down to almost nothing, cleaning isn’t the answer. This is when you need a new blade. But if the blade looks gummed or gritty, it’s likely cleaning will help provide better performance from the diamond blade. There are two ways to clean your blade; either through sawing or the use of a cleaning solution. Clean a diamond saw blade through sawing Plugging in your saw and grabbing a spare piece of material might be enough to get your blade back up to speed. Find a spare piece of cement or concrete, making sure that it’s even and smooth. Then put on protective sawing gear. This includes earmuffs, safety goggles and a face mask to protect yourself from the dust and noise from sawing. Once you’re all geared up, turn on your diamond saw to its full power. Make a few small cuts in the concrete. About 5 centimetres should do the trick. After around 10 to 20 seconds, switch the diamond saw off and inspect the blade. If there is still some grit present, repeat the process. You can continue to do this until the grit is gone. Afterwards, your diamond saw blade should work like a brand-new saw. The downside to this cleaning method is that it can wear away at your saw over time. This is why you shouldn’t always use this to clean your diamond saw blade. Diamond saw blade cleaning solution The second method of cleaning a diamond saw blade is to use a suitable cleaning solution. This provides a thorough soak and clean to the blade. First thing is to find a cleaning solution that won’t damage the blade’s tips or the bond that keeps the diamonds in place. Citrus-based kitchen cleaners and standard oven cleaners are often used for this method. Slip on some heavy-duty gloves to protect your skin from being pierced by the blade. Mix the cleaning agent with water, following instructions provided by the manufacturer. Then pour the cleaning solution into a shallow container or pan that the blade can fit in. Soak the blade in the solution for several minutes. You can leave it in for as long as it takes for the dirt and dust to soften. Then use a bristle brush to give the diamond blade a good scrub. Once you’ve scrubbed the blade, rinse it under running water. You should be able to see the diamond-embedded pieces in the blade. If you can’t, it’s time for a replacement. Carefully dry the blade with paper towels and reinstall it on the saw. When cleaning a diamond saw blade isn’t quite enough Unfortunately, sometimes simply cleaning the blade isn’t quite enough. You might still find that it doesn’t cut quite like it used to. Even if you’re experienced with diamond saw blades, at this point it’s a good idea to call in an expert technician for help. You might need to get your diamond saw serviced. You may also need to investigate replacing the blade – depending on the type and quality, your blade might be at the end of its lifespan. If this is the case, head on down to your local gardening and construction centre to pick up a new diamond saw blade. What is a diamond saw blade? Not quite sure if it’s a diamond saw blade that you’re looking at? Let us clear it up for you! A diamond saw blade is a type of metal saw blade used for cutting hard or abrasive materials. It has diamonds fixed on its edge. Not the type you’d usually find on jewellery, but synthetic diamonds made through a high temperature, high-pressure synthesis process. They are

Chainsaws are a great gardening and construction tool to own. To get the most out of chainsaws, you need to make sure you’re looking after them properly. So, how often should you clean your chainsaw? Chainsaws should have a basic clean conducted after every use, and a good clean every month. This can vary depending on how often the chainsaw is used. Ensure the carburetor, plug, chain, guide bar, fuel tank, and air filter are cleaned out each month if the chainsaw is used regularly for maintenance. We’re going to talk all about cleaning your chainsaw, so read on to find out more! Do I need to clean my chainsaw after each use? You should be cleaning your chainsaw after every use to ensure that there is no build up in the bar or chain. This prolongs the lifespan of your chainsaw and maintains it’s good performance. Also, completing a basic clean at the end of each use can help you check that no damage has occurred to your chainsaw. You don’t need to complete an intense clean every time you use your chainsaw. But you should be sure to clean the chain and guide bar especially. This will stop any chunks of wood or dirt, plus any grime, from building up and rotting your chainsaw. You should also be sure to properly dry your chainsaw after use before putting it away in storage. There’s no point in conducting a good clean of your chainsaw, just to leave it wet and unable to dry. This can cause rust to form on your chainsaw and decrease the lifespan of it. Cleaning your chainsaw after each use is also important because it might be a while before you decide to use the chainsaw again. You don’t want to just use your chainsaw, chuck it in storage, and have to deal with the mess at a later date. You’re better off cleaning the chainsaw straight away and conducting chainsaw maintenance before putting it in storage. What regular cleaning should be done to my chainsaw? If you use your chainsaw regularly, a daily, weekly, and monthly maintenance routine is essential for a safe, maximally optimized chainsaw. We’re going to break these up below. Daily chainsaw cleaning tips Check your throttle trigger If you use your chainsaw almost every day, you should check your throttle trigger daily. This is vital to the function of the chainsaw. If the engine doesn’t return to an idle when you release the trigger, you need to take the chainsaw to be inspected. You should be testing this daily to ensure your safety and the proper functioning of your chainsaw. Clean chainsaw air filter  Always keep your chainsaw’s air filter clean before daily use. If you remove it to clean, ensure it dries appropriately before reinserting into the chainsaw. If it’s too dirty and clogged, please replace the air filter. Clean the bar groove To keep your chainsaw from wearing out, clean the bar groove each day. Check the lubricant hole to ensure it’s not clogged. Lubricate regularly; this will reduce friction and damage to the machine parts. Inspect the sprocket and sharpen the chain Inspect the chainsaw sprocket to make sure it’s in good condition; if not, replace it. Check the taut of your chain. If it’s fixed too tight or too loose, adjust correctly. If you want to sharpen your chain, it’s best to consult the manufacturer’s manual. Check the chainsaw starter Check that your starter cord and starter are in good condition. Your emergency stop switch should work promptly too. If any of these aren’t functioning correctly, then have your chainsaw serviced. Weekly chainsaw cleaning tips Each week you should be conducting maintenance checks to your chainsaw during cleaning. This includes checking that your anti-vibration parts are in good condition. They should not be torn, worn out, or damaged. Other weekly chainsaw checks include: Make sure that everything is running as it should with your chainsaw. If you are noticing any problems, you can take your chainsaw to be serviced. Or, you might be due to check out new chainsaws for sale. Monthly chainsaw cleaning and inspection tips  Each month you should conduct a thorough clean of every part of the chainsaw. While you are doing this, you should be inspecting each part to make sure it is working properly. Inspect the chain brake band to be sure there’s no weak bands or cracks. If there is a visible crack, you will need to replace this for your safety. Inspect the chainsaw clutch for any tear or damage. Clean and inspect your fuel filter. If it is getting a bit old, you might need to replace it. Clean the gas and oil tanks in the chainsaw. You should also be inspecting the wires, plugs, and cables that connect to your chainsaw. The monthly clean of your chainsaw should be similar to the clean you conduct before storing a chainsaw away. What happens if I don’t clean my chainsaw? We have collated a list of a few things that could go wrong if you don’t clean your chainsaw or check it routinely: So, if you have taken our advice to clean your saw regularly, what parts should you clean? What are the main parts of a chainsaw to clean? This section will list and explain the main parts of a chain saw and the best cleaning methods. They are: The chainsaw bar To clean the chainsaw bar, loosen the nuts that hold it in place with the chainsaw head. Use either a rag or compressed air to clean the dirt on the bar or a chain groove. After cleaning, put the bar in the reverse order from how you disassembled it at first; this will allow for even usage and longer. The chainsaw chain To clean your chain, ensure you are in a well-ventilated, open area. You also want to wear gloves to protect your hands. Make a solution containing ½ cup of water and ½ cup of

Professional loggers use some pretty big stuff to cut down and trim huge trees. That’s why you need professional chainsaws and professional chainsaw accessories designed for heavy-duty logging operations. So, what chainsaws do professional loggers use? Professional loggers use chainsaws that are lightweight but have lots of power behind them. The Husqvarna 455 Rancher is a popular choice by professional loggers. This chainsaw features low-kickback chains and an inertia safety chain break. It is a safe, powerful chainsaw, great for professional use. Professional loggers face rigorous demands, and their equipment plays a critical role in meeting those challenges. Recognizing this sets the stage for a deeper exploration. What do loggers specifically look for in a chainsaw? Let’s delve into the essential characteristics that define the ideal chainsaw for professional logging. These features ensure both safety and efficiency in one of the toughest occupations. What chainsaws do professional loggers use? Professional loggers require chainsaws that offer a blend of power, durability, and precision to handle the demanding nature of their work. These experts often turn to trusted brands known for reliability and performance in harsh conditions. One of the most favored models is the Husqvarna 455 Rancher, renowned for its robustness and versatility across a wide range of logging tasks. However, loggers’ needs vary depending on the specific conditions and challenges of their work environment. This prompts them to choose from a range of models suited to different tasks. Heavy-duty tasks like felling large trees or managing dense forests require chainsaws with powerful engines and strong durability. Models like the Husqvarna 572 XP and Husqvarna 390 XP are popular choices. These chainsaws deliver high power output and include features designed to maximize user safety and comfort. For tasks that require greater precision and maneuverability, such as limbing and bucking, loggers prefer models like the Husqvarna 550 XP Mark II. This chainsaw offers the needed agility without sacrificing power. For lighter tasks like pruning, models such as the Husqvarna 435 e-series are favored for their ease of use and efficiency. Regardless of the specific model, professional loggers prioritize chainsaws that ensure efficient, safe, and reliable performance. Brands like Husqvarna stand out for consistently meeting these critical needs. What does a professional logger seek from a chainsaw? Professional logging is both demanding and hazardous. Choosing the right chainsaw isn’t just a preference — it’s a crucial decision that impacts safety, productivity, and efficiency. Logging environments differ greatly, from the wet, dense forests of the Pacific Northwest to the rugged terrain of the Australian bush. ‘ Each location brings unique challenges and requires tools that are both reliable and adaptable. Loggers spend long hours with their chainsaws, cutting through thick trunks and navigating dense underbrush. This intense work demands equipment that can handle daily wear while reducing strain on the operator. Professional loggers, therefore, look for chainsaws that combine these features, ensuring they can meet the day’s demands safely and effectively. The choice of chainsaw is a critical one, directly affecting the efficiency of their operations and their physical well-being. What is the most popular professional chainsaw? The Husqvarna 455 Rancher 20″ Chainsaw is one of the most popular professional chainsaws among professional loggers and chainsaw users. This model has earned a reputation for its outstanding balance of power, durability, and user-friendly design. A powerful 55.5cc engine powers this saw. It delivers ample strength to cut through large trees and serves as a reliable workhorse for logging operations. The 455 Rancher also features Husqvarna’s X-Torq engine technology. This reduces emissions and increases fuel efficiency, aligning with the environmental and economic needs of modern logging operations. It’s a powerful saw that can cut through large logs and trees without any trouble, and it’s relatively easy to use. This saw is great for professional loggers and chainsaw users. It also works well for homeowners who need to cut down many trees on their property. There is such a range of Husqvarna chainsaws that you can find one to fit all your logging, gardening and construction needs. This is why they are a brand trusted by professionals. Do professional loggers use heated chainsaws? In colder climates, where temperatures can significantly affect the performance of machinery and the comfort of the operator, heated chainsaws are indeed used by professional loggers. These chainsaws come equipped with heated handles, which help to keep the operator’s hands warm, reducing fatigue and improving efficiency. While not all loggers use heated chainsaws, they are a valuable tool for those working in environments where cold weather is a constant challenge. In Australia’s temperate regions, where extreme cold is not a common concern for loggers, the demand for heated chainsaws would be minimal. However, in some of the higher altitude areas or southernmost parts of the country where temperatures can drop significantly, especially during winter, there might be some use for these types of chainsaws, albeit limited. The Australian logging industry’s equipment choices are more often dictated by the type of vegetation, the terrain, and the specific requirements of the logging operations rather than the need for heated equipment. Factors such as power, durability, and ease of maintenance tend to be the primary considerations when selecting chainsaws for professional use in Australia. Why is the Husqvarna 455 Rancher chainsaw so popular? The Husqvarna 455 Rancher chainsaw is one of the most popular chainsaws on the market, and for good reason. It’s a great bang for your buck. The Husqvarna 455 Rancher’s popularity among professional loggers can be attributed to several key factors: These characteristics make the Husqvarna 455 Rancher an ideal tool for the professional logger. It strikes a balance between performance, durability, and user comfort. This machine has been used by many professionals in construction, landscaping and other situations. They can quickly get the job done with a reliable, heavy-duty chainsaw that has features optimised for safety. People who use Husqvarna chainsaws frequently say that their equipment outlasts similar products made by competitors. If you need a machine that will last you many

Chainsaws are heavy machines that can take a significant amount of wear and tear from working with a variety of materials. It’s important to provide care and maintenance to your chainsaws, as well as good storage conditions.  Let’s talk about how to properly store your chainsaw. To properly store a chainsaw, pick a space that is dry and out of direct sunlight to reduce the chances of rust over time. Clean and perform maintenance on the chainsaw before putting it in a carry bag and away in the tool shed. The chainsaw should be locked away to prevent children from finding it. Read on to find all the steps to take to properly store your chainsaw. The best place to store your chainsaw The best storage location for your chainsaw needs to be dry, out of direct sunlight, locked away, and out of reach of children. Any potential dampness can cause condensation to form on the chainsaw and have parts of it rust. UV embrittlement occurs from exposure to sun rays which is why it’s important to store your chainsaw out of the sunlight. It’s also a good idea to invest in a carry bag or case for your chainsaw to protect it from dust while in storage. The best places to store a chainsaw includes but is not limited to: The most common storage space for chainsaws is in the owner’s garage/tool shed because it can be locked away. It’s also kept organized with the rest of your tools, often out of sunlight and in a dry area. Hanging your chainsaw or putting it on a shelf is a good way to keep it dry, in case of rain and a small flood in the shed. Your garage or tool shed is also recommended because children aren’t likely to go in there often, especially if you lock it. This will protect them from being injured by a stored chainsaw. How do you store a chainsaw when it’s not in use? When you are planning to store your chainsaw, you should clean it completely before locking it away. There are different storage steps to take, depending on how long you plan on storing your chainsaw. Short-term chainsaw storage (1-6 months) Below is a step-by-step guide on how you should store your chainsaw for the short term: Test your chainsaw Before storing your chainsaw, you need to give it a final test to make sure everything is working as it should. You don’t want to store a damaged chainsaw, then try to pull it out when you need it only for it to not work. Check your chainsaw for any potential chainsaw maintenance that needs to be completed before storing it away. You should carry out a compression test and repair any damages to the chainsaw before storing it in a safe place. Drain the chainsaw fuel tank Ensure that you drain all the fuel stored in the chainsaw fuel tank into a fuel storage container. You can use a siphon or a funnel to ensure that you drain all the fuel. You might find that you need to run the chainsaw for a little while to use up the last of the fuel. This is called ‘running it dry’. The chainsaw should be left running until it starts to splutter. This indicates that the fuel is running out. Add some fuel stabiliser to spread through the fuel system. Run the chainsaw again to encourage the spread. This will protect any last bits of fuel from forming gum deposits in the fuel circulation. Also, add fuel stabiliser to the stored fuel. Apply oil After the chainsaw runs dry, it’s time to apply some oil to the chain. Oil works as a durable shield for the metal parts of the chainsaw that get corrosion from exposure to air and water. That’s why it’s important to apply oil to a chainsaw you’re putting into storage. You should oil the chain and rubber parts of the chainsaw. The oil decreases the damage to rubber over time. By oiling your chainsaw, you will be promoting the longevity of its condition. Medium-term to long-term chainsaw storage Sometimes you end up locking your chainsaw away for a lot longer than expected. When you do this, there should be a few extra steps taken to maintain your chainsaw in storage. There are steps for the medium-term, which is up to 3 years of chainsaw storage. Also, long-term chainsaw storage, which is 4 to 10 years. You should complete the steps we laid out to follow for short-term chainsaw storage and then address these steps for medium to long-term storage: Get fuel stabiliser for chainsaw fuel tank When storing your chainsaw for a long period of time, you have the option to keep the chainsaw fuel in the tank for about two years. To do this, you need to invest in fuel stabiliser. We mentioned using fuel stabiliser to protect the chainsaw when you drain it. But you can actually keep the fuel in the chainsaw tank with the fuel stabiliser for two years. Remember, this is only for medium-term storage though. After two years, you will need to drain and clean the chainsaw fuel tank. Remove the chainsaw air filter You should remove the chainsaw air filter while preparing to put the chainsaw into storage. Use fogging oil and spray it on the inside of the air filter for about 30 seconds. This will clean it out and provide a protective layer over the filter. Drain the chainsaw fuel for long-term storage and disassemble We mentioned before that fuel stabiliser will only work for a medium-term storage period, so for long-term chainsaw storage, you need to drain the fuel. Follow the same steps we outlined for the short-term chainsaw storage. Afterwards, you should remove the carburettor and give it a good clean. Also, remove the chain from the guide bar and drive assembly. Clean out all the dirt, wood chips, and grime from the chain and bar.

If there’s one thing that is true of lawn care, it’s that it can feel like a never-ending battle. Ride on lawnmowers are an efficient solution to the lawn—but how often does the mower itself need to be cleaned? It is good to clean under a ride on mower at least three times a year, twice being the minimum number. This changes depending on how frequently you mow and if it is long or wet grass. Dirt and grass are more likely to get stuck in these cases, increasing the need for cleaning under a ride on mower. Read on to find out more. How often you should clean under your ride on lawn mower Under a ride on lawnmower should be cleaned at least twice a year if it is being used for dry grass that doesn’t grow lots. Three to four times a year is recommended if you have grass that grows well. If it is a wet season, or you are mowing wet grass often, you need to regularly check under the ride on mower and clean it. Wet grass clumps underneath a ride on mower and can affect how well it cuts grass. Wet conditions will also usually cause your grass to grow quicker, which will require more use of your ride on mower. The more you use the mower, the more often you need to clean under it. Otherwise, the grass clumps can cause breakdowns and damage to the ride on mower. If you let your grass grow long, you should be checking under your ride on mower after every mow. You will find that you need to clean out long strands of grass that became stuck under the ride on mower. You might need to clean weeds and soil that flicked up with the mow. The best thing you can do is to check under your ride on mower after every use and give it a quick clean. Then at least twice a year, perform a mower maintenance and thorough clean. How do you clean under a ride on lawn mower? Cleaning under a ride on lawnmower is a fairly straightforward process, but you need to be careful. You will be cleaning around the mower blades, which is why maintenance safety is vital to prevent injuries from a mower. Make sure you remove the key from the ride on mower ignition before you start another cleaning step. You will need to remove the mower deck so that you can give yourself access to the underside of the ride on mower. Then you need to tip the ride on mower on its side. Make sure it is on a flat surface and that the air filters are pointing up. Otherwise, the machine could flood with oil and you’ll be dealing with a lot more than just a dirty mower. Take a scraper or a putty knife and scrape off the biggest chunks of grass and debris. Remember to always be extremely careful around the blades, even the slightest touch could cut your hand. Ideally, you would then use a pressure washer to soak any remaining debris and leave it for a while. After letting the debris soak for a while, use the pressure washing again to wash off the rest of the dirt. For persistent pieces of dirt and clumped grass, use a stiff brush to scrub them away. While the mower deck is tipped over, you can spray vegetable oil lightly on the underside of the deck. This will slow the build-up of grass and dirt for a while. Leave the deck to fully air dry before re-attaching it to the mower and using it again. What about if I don’t have a pressure washer? Can usen a hose to clean a ride on lawn mower? A hose can be used to clean under a ride on mower. This is possibly a more convenient option for lots of people. We do recommend investing in a high-pressure washer because they are useful for all kinds of jobs. But you can get enough power out of a hose to clean under a ride on mower. You could also chop and change between using a hose and a pressure washer depending on the kind of clean you are doing. For the big, proper cleans of a ride on mower, you can use a pressure washer to remove the build-up of dirt and grass. These are the cleans that you should be conducting at least twice a year. For more regular cleaning under a ride on mower, you could just use a hose. This will remove dirt from a recent mowing. It’s a good idea to do this after a few mowing sessions. If you don’t have a pressure washer, you can use a hose to clean under a ride on mower at any time. It’s a good idea to invest in a nozzle that can make the water spray with more pressure. The pressure is the key to dislodging and removing build-up from under a ride on mower. Can you tip a ride on lawnmower on its side to clean it? To clean under a ride on lawnmower, it will need to be tipped on its side. This is how most of the maintenance to the mower is completed. By tipping the ride on mower on its side you gain better access to the engine, blades, and mower deck. It’s important to always be safe when tipping a ride on mower on its side for cleaning and maintenance. How to do so will depend on the type of mower that you have. For a large ride on lawnmowers such as a Cub Cadet zero turn 46” mower, it’s good to use a jack to tip it on its side. Don’t try to simply lift the ride on mower by yourself. That can easily result in injury and damage to the mower. When planning to tip a ride on mower on its side, you need to make

Chainsaws can cut through all kinds of wood and other tough materials. One material that finds people debating about whether to use a chainsaw with is ice. Will ice dull a chainsaw? Dirty and muddy ice will dull a chainsaw because the frozen dirt acts as tiny rocks that slowly file down the cutter teeth. However, pure, and clean ice has little effect on chainsaw sharpness. This kind of ice is used for sculptures at parties and are created by professionals using small chainsaws. Let’s talk more about ice dulling chainsaws. What causes a chainsaw to dull after using it on ice? Dirty ice will dull the cutter teeth of a chainsaw chain because of all the little pieces of other materials that are frozen in the ice. Outside ice will collect bits of dirt, dust, wood, metal, and even tiny rocks. When you try sawing through ice with your chainsaw, these frozen pieces can interrupt the cut. This will cause the chain to dull. Ice is smooth and easy to saw through, but these other materials aren’t, and more power will be required to saw through them. If not more power, then they will have to be sawed more than other sections of the ice. Another reason that could be causing your chainsaw to dull after using it with ice can be rust. The friction between the chain and the ice can produce enough heat to melt the ice a bit. The melted ice can run down the chainsaw bar and through the chain. If you don’t clean your chainsaw afterwards, the ice can rust the chain and bar. The ice can also build up in your chain and accumulate in your chainsaw. This rusts the bar, the chain, and the clutch, potentially causing problems for your chainsaw. All of these aspects will make a chainsaw dull sooner, which is part of why cleaning is so important. Tips when cutting ice with a chainsaw A chainsaw should always be sharp, to enable it to cut through ice with ease. A dull chainsaw only slows you down and makes it more challenging to do anything. For that reason, it’s important that you learn what to do whenever you use your chainsaw on ice. Here are several tips to keep in mind every time you use your chainsaw on ice. Wear protective gear when sawing ice You should always be wearing protective gear when using a chainsaw, and sawing ice is no exception. A helmet with a visor and your working boots is a good start. Some water-resistant clothing is a good idea to protect you from slush and water spray. If you don’t have a helmet with a visor, safety goggles will do the trick. You want to protect your eyes from little pieces of ice that could be flicked up. Make sure you wear gloves when sawing ice. Drain the ice reservoir before sawing Ensure that you drain out the ice reservoir before you start cutting the ice. Oil pollutes the ice and is also harmful when consumed by humans or wildlife. We recommend that you use biodegradable oil as an alternative. The water may seem like a good lubricant but it’s always good to be safe. Avoid sawing dirty ice Dirty muddy ice or snow will quickly dull your chainsaw. It may contain elements such as metal or tiny rocks that when hit by the chainsaw, will cause it to dull. This is why it’s recommended to only use your chainsaw on clean or pure ice. This kind of ice has little to no effect on the chainsaw because it is smooth to saw through. If you really need to saw some dirty ice, be prepared to deal with a duller chain afterwards. Dry your chainsaw straight away After using a chainsaw to cut ice, you need to immediately dry and oil the tool. If you leave it lying around for any real length of time, the chainsaw bar, clutch, and chain will rust. This causes more problems than just a dull chain. So, make sure you are properly wiping down the chainsaw, drying, and oiling it after sawing ice. Clear water residue from the chainsaw Before you turn your chainsaw off fully and start cleaning, you should rev it to clear out some of the water residues. To do this, walk away from where you were working, into an area with some space. Then hold the chainsaw out and rev it a few times. Make sure you safely operate the chainsaw when completing this task. This is a good way to clean bigger chunks of ice and water residue. If you just shut off the chainsaw in really cold weather, the water will freeze quickly and cause a hassle to start and use. What is the best chainsaw for cutting ice? A chainsaw can be a great tool to use to cut ice. We recommend that you use a chainsaw that has a 20-inch or more bar length. For example, our Husqvarna 455 Rancher chainsaw is a great option, with a 20-inch bar, anti-vibration technology, and easy start-up. Chainsaw like these give extra reach, stopping you from having to bend down when cutting ice. They can also cut through any ice thickness quite easily. If you are looking to only cut small pieces of ice, you could go for a smaller chainsaw, probably with a bar length of 16 inches. But no matter what chainsaw you use, make sure you have a good-grade lubricant on the chainsaw. This will protect the chainsaw a bit more when sawing ice and maintain its longevity. Cutting ice with a chainsaw can be an easy process given how smooth ice is. If you make sure to take care of your chainsaw and avoid cutting dirty ice, you won’t have many problems with dulling. But it is a good idea to sharpen the chainsaw cutter teeth each time. This will allow the chainsaw to cut through ice with more ease and

A regular lawn care routine is important as it helps keep the grass at an appropriate height and makes your property look better. But have you ever wondered what happens to the grass if you don’t cut it? When grass isn’t cut, it grows taller and begins to clump together. This causes the stems to become woody. Tallgrass consumes more nutrients from the soil and weakens the lawn. This causes patches across the lawn and eventually, it will be overrun by weeds and insects, becoming very unhealthy grass. Read on to find out more about the results of not cutting your grass. The negative implications of an unkept lawn For a lot of people, lawn maintenance is a chore that they would rather do without. Because of the overwhelming nature of routine lawn maintenance, it can become quite challenging, especially in summer or spring when grass grows faster. While cutting grass is definitely a tedious task, it’s also very important. Below are several problems that arise if you don’t cut your grass. Unhealthy Grass Grass that isn’t cut to the recommended height is usually more unhealthy than regular cut grass. If you’ve ever walked past an abandoned property, then you must have realized that the grass lacks the deep green appearance that healthy grass possesses. This is because, with tall grass, root growth usually slows down, causing the grass to weaken.   Mowing Difficulty Without a doubt, if you let the grass grow past its usual limit, it will be a little difficult to mow down. You may have to adjust the height of the mower and even then, you will still need to move a little slower, gradually reducing the height every time. Sometimes your mowing gets away from you and the lawn gets a bit tall and rough. With a quality lawnmower such as the Husqvarna TS354 Ride On Mower, you can tackle tough lawns more easily. Hidden Dangers It shouldn’t be a surprise that an overgrown lawn is a perfect home for pests and all other kinds of rodents. Pests that love to nest inside tall grass include mice, insects, raccoons, snakes, rats, gophers, opossums, among others. Such pests can become hazardous not only to homeowners but also to children and maintenance workers with access to the lawn. Lawn Problems Overgrown grass creates an untidy look. Some areas will grow taller while others start drying out & dying. If the grass is left to grow for an extended amount of time, weeds and woody shrubs will start to sprout. You will also be dealing with an abundance of insects in your yard that will become pests to your living. Should you let your grass grow tall? There aren’t any major benefits of letting your grass grow tall. If you let your grass grow tall, then it reaches a stage where it’s ready to seed. When it’s ready to seed, the problems we mentioned earlier arise; a patchy, unhealthy lawn, weed overgrowth, & an unpleasant look. Additionally, letting your grass grow taller doesn’t make your grass thicker. If you want to add more grass to your lawn, simply sow bought seeds. This is because tall grass usually becomes weaker as it grows. Therefore, if the grass seeds, the seeds will be weak as well and won’t help spread or thicken the lawn. Furthermore, the grass will take up more of the nutrients in the ground to grow taller than to grow thick and healthy. Reasons why you should cut your grass Short cut grass is usually neat and makes for a great curb appeal. Additionally, it does encourage others around you to maintain a nice, tidy lawn. With that said, here are some other reasons why it’s important to cut your grass: Cutting grass helps fend off pests and rodents Short cut grass doesn’t provide the kind of coverage that tall grass provides. Therefore, these pests and rodents won’t have anywhere to hide. If you don’t have litter or trash lying around the property, they won’t think twice about creating a home there. Keeps insects and termites at bay Insects and termites usually love to hang out around dead wood and overgrown vegetation. However, if you regularly cut your grass and clear out any overgrown vegetation, you deter any termites or insects that may think of making a home in your grass. Lower your watering costs If you have a regular lawn maintenance routine, you will quickly discover just how much water is needed to keep your grass green. Therefore, you won’t constantly water areas that don’t need watering, keeping your water bill down. You save time and money By regularly cutting down your grass, you are saving up a lot of money and time. This is because, if you let your grass grow until it becomes unmanageable, there is a chance that you may attract a city penalty. Additionally, you may have to pay a mowing company to get the grass cut down to size. Cutting grass, the importance of lawn care Cutting grass seems like a tedious insignificant chore that a lot of people would rather overlook. However, if you don’t cut your grass, it will grow back to a wilder state. Various types of grass, weeds, and shrubs will start growing on your lawn, forming a big tangled mess. Not to mention, it brings along big risks that make it unsafe for the family to play in. Many harmful pests such as snakes will be attracted to the shade that the tall grass provides, posing a threat to your family. Therefore, by cutting your grass, you lower the risk of such things happening & at the same time, boost the value of your property. Additionally, think about all the money you can save in the long run. Take the time to cut your grass, it’s a win-win situation in the long term. When Lawns Get Out of Hand Letting your lawn grow unchecked doesn’t just affect how it looks — it can quickly lead

Chainsaws are really useful for any gardener and homeowner, assisting in a huge range of tasks. While they can be simple to use, there’s a lot to know about your chainsaw, such as why your chain won’t fit on your chainsaw. Without matching a chainsaw chain length, drive links, gauge, and pitch to your chainsaw, the chain won’t fit on the guide bar. The measurements for these aspects are stamped on your chainsaw bar or written in your chainsaw manual. They will match a certain chain length that will fit your chainsaw. Let’s talk more about fitting your chain to your chainsaw. Why won’t my chain fit on my chainsaw? There are a variety of reasons that can cause your chainsaw chain to not fit on your chainsaw, including wrong chain measurements or worn-down chains. We’re going to go through a quick list of possible reasons your chainsaw chain isn’t fitting on the chainsaw. The first thing to consider is that you have grabbed the wrong sized chain for your chainsaw bar. Every chain comes with specific pitch, gauge, and drive link measurements that need to match your chainsaw. The measurements needed to fit your chainsaw can be found in the user manual and sometimes stamped on the bar. To check that your chainsaw chain matches these measurements, you can measure the chain yourself. We walk you through measuring these aspects below. If your chain used to fit your chainsaw but is now coming off of the bar, there are a few reasons that can contribute to this. This includes worn-out sprockets and/or chainsaw bars. This can reduce the tension in the chain and cause it to come loose from the bar. You could have the chain tension set wrong in the first place – also another contributor to chainsaw chains not fitting. Be sure to check that you have correctly tensioned your chainsaw chain before deciding if it is the wrong size altogether. Sometimes there isn’t a quick-fix DIY solution, such as if a worn-out bar heel is causing your chain to not fit/stay on the chainsaw bar. The bar heel is positioned near the machine drive sprocket. When a chainsaw bar heel wears out, the chainsaw grooves become less effective, lengthening the distance the chain must travel. This causes the chain to detach from the bar. A problem like this is best solved by a chainsaw maintenance service. How do you fit a chain on a chainsaw? All chainsaws should have a list of specifications in the manual regarding chainsaw and chain sizes. This should include the necessary pitch, gauge, and drive links that will fit that specific chainsaw. To ensure the chain fits your chainsaw, measure the chain and compare it to the saw’s specifications. The first step is to measure the pitch of the chain. To do this pick any three consecutive rivets to measure the distance between. Rivets are the studs that hold the links together. Measure from the first stud to the third stud, then divide the length by two. This gives you the size of your pitch. To measure the gauge on your chainsaw chain, you are just measuring the thickness of the drive links. Measure the part of the drive link that fits into the groove on the guide bar. Since it’s hard to get an accurate gauge reading with a tape measure, use a vernier caliper for better precision. This measurement is vital because if the gauge is too big, it can’t fit into the groove of your chainsaw bar. Your chainsaw bar will also have space for a certain number of drive links, which is why you must measure these on the chainsaw chain. This task is easier than the others. The drive links are the teeth on the underside of the chain (where you also find the gauge). All you need to do is count how many points there are. Then compile the drive link number with the pitch and gauge and you know the length of the chain. Compare these with the measurement guidelines for your chainsaw and you can find and fit the right chain to your bar. If you are looking for a new chain and want to make sure it will fit properly, we have provided all the information you need! Each product in our large selection of saw chains for sale tells you the suitable bar length and the number of drive links. As a result, you will always know exactly what your new chain will fit onto. Do all chains fit all chainsaws? You can mix chainsaw chain brands and chainsaws, for example, a Husqvarna petrol chainsaw and an AR-Pro chain. This is provided that the chain has the right pitch, gauge and drive link measurements to fit the chainsaw bar. If you grab a chain that is too small for a chainsaw, the chain can’t properly wrap around the sprocket and bar. This will ruin the tension in the chain and increase the risk of the chain coming out of the grooves. If you think you need a specific brand for your chainsaw chain, check the brain of the current chain on the chainsaw. You can do this by looking at the links on the chain. Usually, there will be some labelling of the brand that the chain is produced by. Remember to always check the measurements of your chainsaw bar and chain to make sure they are the right match. Not all chains will fit your chainsaw and the wrong chain increases the safety risks when working with your chainsaw. Why do my chains constantly come off my chainsaw? There are two main aspects that can contribute to your chainsaw chain coming off of the chainsaw. One is the chain tension, the other is the bar condition. Chain tension causing chain to come off chainsaw The first thing to check is the chain tension on your saw. There can be different tension systems. But most chainsaws use springs to keep

Chainsaws are used for all kinds of different jobs, which means there is a wide variety of chains available. If you’re trying to figure out the best chainsaw for you, you should know what a skip tooth chain is used for. Skip tooth chains are used for cutting large pieces of wood and cross-cutting sections of wood. The gaps between the cutting teeth reduce drag on the chain, minimizing the amount of debris produced. Skip tooth chains can be used with lower-powered saws and longer guide bars, reducing kickback risk. Let’s learn more about skip tooth chains. What is the advantage of a skip tooth chain? There are multiple advantages to skip tooth chains. Skip tooth chains reduce the amount of debris and woodchips that produce from sawing. The gaps between the cutting teeth scoop up this debris and allow it to be released from the chain easily. Other chains have the cutter teeth closer together which can cause sawdust to build up in the chain. This will mean you have to stop and clean out the chain and guide bar more often. Skip tooth chains reduce the number of times you have to do this. The other advantage is that skip tooth chains actually utilize less power than regular, full chains. Per unit length of chain, skip tooth chains take less power from the motor. This is what allows them to use the longer bars on any motor. This means you can work longer and more efficiently. There is also less risk of kickback occurring when working with a skip tooth chain. This makes the chain more beginner-friendly. A skip tooth chain is actually a great option for someone with less chainsaw experience. While the cutter teeth don’t dull as quickly as other chains, it is easier to sharpen them yourself. This is great practice for a beginner learning to perform maintenance on their chainsaw. With these advantages in mind, let’s consider what a skip tooth chain is best for. What is a skip tooth chain best for? A skip tooth chain is best for most saw jobs that need a long bar, such as sawing large trees. This is because skip tooth chains on a longer bar will provide a cut with a much wider diameter. As we mentioned, the cutter teeth also won’t dull as fast when sawing a big job. So you are more likely to get the job done before needing to have chainsaw maintenance done. This is better than other chains that will dull halfway through cutting a big tree. Skip tooth chains are also great for cross-cutting sections of wood and chainsaw milling. Most sawing jobs that don’t need to be clean and precise can be completed well with a skip tooth chain. When you shouldn’t use a skip tooth chain It’s best to use a different chain to a skip tooth chain when sawing material that is narrow or has a small diameter. A shorter bar with a chain like a full chisel chain is better for these kinds of jobs. A skip tooth chain would vibrate more and can be painful to your wrists from trying to hold the saw steady. Using a skip tooth chain on a shorter bar for smaller materials can feel very rough and grabby. At times, it wouldn’t be practical at all. Consider trying to saw branches that are between 1 and 3 centimetres in diameter. One tooth on a skip tooth chain will grab the branch and yank it. The branch is likely not to cut and you will have repetitive yanking and releasing. In these cases, it’s best to use a chain that has cutter teeth closer together. Can you run a longer bar with a skip chain? Skip tooth chains are recommended when using a longer chainsaw bar. Sawing jobs that require longer bars tend to have more debris. If you use chains that have closer cutting teeth, more of the motor’s power will be used. Skip tooth chains reduce the flying debris being produced and will use less power. This is ideal for long bars because your chainsaw power will last longer. The lesser power will also give you more control over the chainsaw boosting your chainsaw use safety. Plus, you won’t be dealing with as much debris. Also, you won’t need to stop as frequently to clean sawdust off the bar. Keep in mind that skip tooth chains do cause more vibration through the chainsaw, which can increase with the bar length. Even so, skip tooth chains are one of the best options for longer chainsaw bars. Is a skip tooth chain different to a ripping chain? A skip tooth chain is usually different to a ripping chain. A skip tooth chain has every other tooth or more, removed. Hence the name ‘skip tooth’. A ripping chain is designed to cut with the grain of the wood. This is different to regular chains that cut across the wood grain. They tend to leave a much smoother finish on the cut surface compared to other chains. This is very different to typical skip tooth chains which are very rough in the cutting finish. Ripping chains are usually micro-chisel or semi-chisel chains with a cutting angle of 10 degrees. A regular ripping chain is not the same as a skip tooth chain. But a ripping chain can be combined with a skip tooth chain style. This can be done by removing every second tooth from the chain, you could create a ripping skip tooth chain. This is not a common combination though. We did more research about skip tooth vs full chisel chains. Check out that and more chainsaw advice in our resources! For quality chainsaws for sale, take a look at our range of Husqvarna chainsaws. We also have plenty of chain saw chains for sale, including full chisel, micro chisel and semi chisel options. We have all the construction and garden care tools you need, have a browse through our