Chainsaw and Frozen Wood Original Message Jan 27, 2007 7:10 pm
We got a load of logs in the late fall, somewhere around 5-8 cords ( that a real, legal cord, 4'x4'x8') so I've got a bit of cutting to do.
The current temperature is averaging -25C ( -12F) and yes it is a bit nippy out.
The problem I'm having is that with a new chain it will cut like gangbusters for a log or two and then start getting noticeably duller. When I resharpen it there is some improvement but its not as good as when the chain was new and it goes dull very quickly. I've got the sharpener set for 35º and 0º. I'm also checking the rakers (a.k.a depth guages) and they seem OK. I'm suspicious that I should have the second setting at 5º instead of 0º but I don't see how that could make such a difference.
One or two of the logs had sand or small stones frozen to the bark and I hit it. I immediately had problems and sharpening didn't seem to help. I have two chains, one is on its last legs and the other is brand new. Both seem to have the same problem so I don't think the first chain is "too" old. I do expect to throw it out shortly. The only other syptom is that it is hard to saw in straight line, the cut seems to curve to the right. I use the dogs which are to the left of the bar.
Re: Chainsaw and Frozen Wood Reply #5 Feb 21, 2007 2:15 pm
OK it looks like this was a combination of two problems.
A number of the logs had mud and stones frozen to the bark, generaly on the bottom. Since we started marking where we are going to cut, cleaning the area and then cutting, the chain is staying sharp longer.
When I was sharpening the chain I wasn't using the jig properly and it wasn't as "nice" as it could be. I got an Oregon chain sharpening jig, spent some time learning how to set it up and use it, and sharpened the chain. It now cuts very well.
It doesn't look like the fact the wood was frozen was the direct cause of the problem, dirt and rock hits coupled with an incorrect sharpening procedure were the cause.
