Homelite Super XL Auto: Firewood Cutting Tips (5 Pro Tricks)

Let’s get straight to the point: I’m going to share five pro tricks that will significantly improve your firewood cutting experience with the Homelite Super XL Auto chainsaw. These aren’t just random tips; they’re techniques I’ve honed over years of using this particular model, turning stacks of logs into neatly seasoned firewood.

Homelite Super XL Auto: Firewood Cutting Tips (5 Pro Tricks)

The Homelite Super XL Auto. It’s a classic. A workhorse. Maybe even a bit of a beast. I’ve spent countless hours with this saw in hand, felling trees, bucking logs, and preparing firewood for long, cold winters. While newer, more technologically advanced chainsaws have entered the market, the Super XL Auto remains a reliable and affordable option, especially for smaller-scale firewood operations. However, to get the most out of this iconic chainsaw, you need to know its quirks and its strengths. These five pro tricks are designed to help you do just that, maximizing your efficiency, safety, and the lifespan of your trusty Homelite.

1. Mastering the Art of the Bore Cut (And Why It’s Essential)

The bore cut. It’s more than just a fancy technique; it’s a game-changer, especially when dealing with larger diameter logs that the Super XL Auto might struggle with using a standard felling cut. I remember the first time I tried a bore cut. I was intimidated, honestly. But after a few practice runs on some smaller logs, I quickly realized its power.

What is a Bore Cut?

Essentially, a bore cut involves plunging the tip of the chainsaw bar directly into the wood to create a controlled opening. This allows you to relieve internal stresses within the log before making the final cuts, preventing pinching and kickback, both of which can be dangerous and frustrating.

Why is it important for the Homelite Super XL Auto?

The Super XL Auto, while powerful for its class, doesn’t have the raw horsepower of some modern saws. This means it can be more susceptible to pinching, especially in hardwoods like oak or maple. The bore cut mitigates this risk. It also allows for a more controlled cut, reducing the likelihood of splitting or splintering the wood, which is crucial when aiming for consistent firewood sizes.

How to Execute a Bore Cut with the Homelite Super XL Auto:

Safety First: Ensure you are wearing appropriate safety gear: helmet, eye protection, hearing protection, gloves, and chaps. Your stance should be stable and balanced.
Initial Cut: Begin with a standard face cut, creating a notch on the side of the log where you intend to make the bore cut. This provides a starting point and helps prevent the saw from skipping. Aim for a notch that is about one-third of the log’s diameter.
Engage the Chain Brake: Before plunging the saw, engage the chain brake. This is a crucial safety step.
Positioning: Place the tip of the bar against the face of the notch.
Controlled Plunge: With the chain brake still engaged, firmly grip the saw and start the engine. Slowly and deliberately plunge the tip of the bar into the wood, using the top edge of the bar. Maintain a firm grip and be prepared for the saw to grab.
Create the Bore: Once the bar is buried to the desired depth (usually about halfway through the log), carefully pivot the saw back and forth to widen the bore.
Relieve Tension: Before completing the cut, carefully observe the kerf (the cut made by the saw). If you see the wood starting to pinch, use a wedge to keep the kerf open.
Complete the Cut: Once you’ve relieved the tension, carefully complete the cut from both sides of the log, meeting in the middle.

Measurements & Specifications:

Log Diameter: Bore cuts are most beneficial for logs exceeding 10 inches in diameter.
Notch Depth: Aim for a notch depth that is approximately one-third of the log’s diameter.
Bar Length: A longer bar (18-20 inches) is recommended for larger logs when using the bore cut technique.

Real-World Example:

I was once cutting a large oak log, about 18 inches in diameter, without using a bore cut. The saw kept pinching, and I was constantly fighting to keep it from stalling. After switching to the bore cut technique, the process became significantly smoother and faster. The saw moved through the wood with ease, and I felt much safer.

Takeaway: The bore cut is an essential technique for anyone using a Homelite Super XL Auto for firewood cutting, particularly when dealing with larger logs. It enhances safety, reduces pinching, and improves overall efficiency.

2. Optimizing Chain Sharpness and Maintenance (The Key to Effortless Cutting)

A dull chain is your worst enemy. It not only makes cutting significantly harder but also increases the risk of kickback and puts unnecessary strain on your chainsaw’s engine. I’ve learned this lesson the hard way, spending countless hours wrestling with logs simply because I neglected to sharpen my chain.

Why Sharpness Matters:

A sharp chain bites into the wood cleanly and efficiently, requiring less force and reducing the risk of the saw binding. It also produces larger, more consistent chips, which is a telltale sign of a properly sharpened chain.

Chain Sharpening Techniques for the Homelite Super XL Auto:

The Super XL Auto typically uses a 3/8″ pitch chain. The most common method for sharpening this type of chain is using a round file and a filing guide.

Gather Your Tools: You’ll need a round file (typically 5/32″ diameter for a 3/8″ pitch chain), a flat file, a filing guide, a depth gauge tool, and a vise to hold the saw securely.
Secure the Saw: Clamp the saw in a vise with the bar exposed.
Identify the Cutting Angle: The cutting angle is usually marked on the chainsaw’s bar or in the owner’s manual. It’s crucial to maintain this angle for optimal cutting performance. For the Super XL Auto, a 30-degree angle is typical.
Sharpen the Cutters: Place the round file in the cutter’s gullet (the curved area behind the cutting tooth). Use the filing guide to maintain the correct angle and depth. Push the file forward and slightly upward, following the contour of the cutter. Repeat this process several times for each cutter, until it is sharp. Always file from the inside of the cutter outwards.
Check and Adjust Depth Gauges: After sharpening the cutters, use a depth gauge tool to check the height of the depth gauges (the small protrusions in front of each cutter). If the depth gauges are too high, the chain won’t bite into the wood effectively. Use a flat file to carefully lower the depth gauges to the recommended height (typically 0.025″ for a 3/8″ pitch chain).
Sharpen All Cutters: Repeat the sharpening process for all cutters on the chain, ensuring that each cutter is sharpened to the same length and angle.
Inspect and Clean: After sharpening, inspect the chain for any signs of damage, such as cracks or broken cutters. Clean the chain with a wire brush and lubricate it with chain oil.

Maintenance Schedule:

Daily: Check chain tension and lubrication. Clean the chain and bar.
After Every Tank of Fuel: Sharpen the chain if needed.
Weekly: Inspect the chain for damage and wear. Clean the bar and sprocket.
Monthly: Deep clean the chainsaw, including the air filter and spark plug.

Measurements & Specifications:

Round File Diameter: 5/32″ for a 3/8″ pitch chain.
Depth Gauge Setting: Typically 0.025″ for a 3/8″ pitch chain.
Filing Angle: 30 degrees (check your saw’s manual).

Real-World Example:

I once spent an entire day struggling to cut through a pile of oak logs with a dull chain. I was exhausted and frustrated, and the saw was overheating. After finally taking the time to sharpen the chain properly, the difference was night and day. The saw sliced through the logs effortlessly, and I finished the job in a fraction of the time.

Takeaway: Maintaining a sharp chain is paramount for efficient and safe firewood cutting with the Homelite Super XL Auto. Invest in the right tools and learn the proper sharpening techniques. A sharp chain will save you time, energy, and frustration.

3. Fuel and Oil Optimization (Keeping Your Super XL Auto Running Smoothly)

The Homelite Super XL Auto, like most older two-stroke engines, is sensitive to fuel and oil mixtures. Using the wrong mixture can lead to poor performance, engine damage, and a shortened lifespan. I’ve seen too many Super XL Autos sidelined due to improper fuel practices.

Fuel Requirements:

The Super XL Auto requires a mixture of gasoline and two-stroke oil. The recommended ratio is typically 32:1 (32 parts gasoline to 1 part oil). Always use high-quality gasoline with an octane rating of 87 or higher. Avoid using gasoline that contains ethanol, as it can damage the engine’s fuel system. If ethanol-free gasoline is not available, use a fuel stabilizer to mitigate its effects.

Oil Recommendations:

Use a high-quality two-stroke oil specifically designed for air-cooled engines. Synthetic oils are generally preferred, as they provide better lubrication and reduce carbon buildup. Avoid using automotive oil, as it is not designed for the high temperatures and pressures of a two-stroke engine.

Mixing Fuel and Oil:

Use a Clean Container: Use a clean, properly marked fuel container.
Add Oil First: Add the correct amount of two-stroke oil to the container.
Add Gasoline: Add the gasoline to the container, carefully pouring it in to avoid spills.
Mix Thoroughly: Secure the cap on the container and shake it vigorously to ensure that the oil and gasoline are thoroughly mixed.

Chain Oil:

Use a high-quality bar and chain oil to lubricate the chain. This oil is specifically designed to adhere to the chain and prevent it from overheating and wearing out. Check the oil level frequently and refill as needed.

Measurements & Specifications:

Fuel Mixture Ratio: 32:1 (gasoline to two-stroke oil)
Gasoline Octane Rating: 87 or higher
Chain Oil Type: Bar and chain oil

Real-World Example:

A friend of mine was using a fuel mixture that was too lean (too much gasoline, not enough oil) in his Super XL Auto. The saw ran hot and lacked power. After switching to the correct 32:1 mixture, the saw’s performance improved dramatically.

Takeaway: Using the correct fuel and oil mixture is crucial for the longevity and performance of your Homelite Super XL Auto. Always follow the manufacturer’s recommendations and use high-quality products.

4. Felling Techniques for Firewood (Controlling the Fall)

While the Homelite Super XL Auto is often used for bucking (cutting logs into shorter lengths), it can also be used for felling smaller trees for firewood. However, felling trees is a dangerous task that requires careful planning and execution. I can’t stress this enough: safety is paramount.

Planning the Fell:

Assess the Tree: Before felling any tree, carefully assess its size, lean, and any defects (such as dead branches or rot). Also, consider the surrounding terrain, including any obstacles (such as power lines, buildings, or other trees).
Determine the Felling Direction: Choose a felling direction that is safe and minimizes the risk of damage to property or injury to people. Consider the tree’s natural lean and the prevailing wind direction.
Clear the Area: Clear a wide area around the base of the tree, removing any brush, rocks, or other obstacles that could trip you.
Plan Your Escape Route: Identify a clear escape route that is at a 45-degree angle away from the direction of the fall.

Felling Cuts:

The Face Cut: The face cut is a notch cut into the tree on the side you want it to fall. It consists of two cuts: a horizontal cut and an angled cut. The horizontal cut should be about one-third of the tree’s diameter. The angled cut should meet the horizontal cut at a 45-degree angle.
The Back Cut: The back cut is made on the opposite side of the tree from the face cut. It should be slightly higher than the horizontal cut of the face cut. Leave a hinge of wood between the back cut and the face cut. This hinge will help control the direction of the fall.
Driving Wedges: As you make the back cut, insert wedges into the cut to prevent the tree from pinching the saw and to help direct the fall.
Final Push: Once the back cut is almost complete, give the tree a final push with a felling lever or a wedge to initiate the fall.

Measurements & Specifications:

Face Cut Depth: One-third of the tree’s diameter.
Hinge Width: Approximately 10% of the tree’s diameter.
Escape Route Angle: 45 degrees away from the direction of the fall.

Real-World Example:

I once witnessed a logger felling a tree without properly planning the fell. The tree fell in the wrong direction and damaged a nearby building. This incident highlighted the importance of careful planning and execution when felling trees.

Takeaway: Felling trees is a dangerous task that should only be undertaken by experienced individuals. Always plan the fell carefully, use proper felling techniques, and wear appropriate safety gear. If you are not comfortable felling a tree yourself, hire a professional arborist.

5. Log Splitting Techniques (From Manual to Mechanical)

Once you’ve bucked your logs into firewood lengths, the next step is splitting them. This can be done manually with a splitting maul or axe, or mechanically with a log splitter. The Homelite Super XL Auto doesn’t directly assist with splitting, but the quality of your cuts directly impacts how easy the wood is to split. Clean, even cuts make splitting significantly easier.

Manual Splitting:

Choose the Right Tool: A splitting maul is generally preferred for splitting larger, tougher logs. An axe is better suited for smaller, easier-to-split logs.
Position the Log: Place the log on a sturdy chopping block. Ensure that the log is stable and won’t roll or shift during splitting.
Stance and Grip: Stand with your feet shoulder-width apart and maintain a balanced stance. Grip the maul or axe firmly with both hands.
Swing and Split: Swing the maul or axe in a controlled arc, aiming for the center of the log. Use your body weight to generate power.
Repeat as Needed: If the log doesn’t split on the first swing, repeat the process until it splits.

Mechanical Splitting:

Choose the Right Log Splitter: Log splitters are available in a variety of sizes and configurations. Choose a log splitter that is appropriate for the size and type of logs you will be splitting.
Position the Log: Place the log on the log splitter’s platform. Ensure that the log is centered and aligned with the splitting wedge.
Engage the Splitter: Engage the log splitter’s hydraulic ram to push the log against the splitting wedge.
Split the Log: The log splitter will split the log into two or more pieces.
Repeat as Needed: Repeat the process until all of your logs are split.

Tips for Easier Splitting:

Split Green Wood: Green wood (freshly cut wood) is generally easier to split than seasoned wood.
Split Along the Grain: Split the log along the grain, following the natural lines of the wood.
Use Wedges: If a log is particularly tough to split, use wedges to help force it apart.

Measurements & Specifications:

Firewood Length: Typically 16-18 inches.
Splitting Maul Weight: 6-8 pounds.
Log Splitter Tonnage: 20-30 tons for most firewood applications.

Real-World Example:

I used to struggle with splitting large oak logs manually. After investing in a log splitter, the process became much faster and easier. I was able to split a cord of wood in a fraction of the time it used to take me.

Takeaway: Splitting firewood can be a physically demanding task. Choose the right tools and techniques to make the job easier and safer. Consider investing in a log splitter if you split a lot of wood.

In Conclusion

The Homelite Super XL Auto, while a classic, requires a certain level of understanding and skill to operate efficiently and safely. By mastering the bore cut, optimizing chain sharpness and maintenance, using the correct fuel and oil mixture, understanding basic felling techniques, and employing effective log splitting methods, you can significantly improve your firewood cutting experience with this iconic chainsaw. Remember, safety should always be your top priority. Wear appropriate safety gear, follow proper operating procedures, and never hesitate to seek professional advice if you are unsure about anything. Now, get out there and start cutting!

Homelite Super XL Auto: Firewood Cutting Tips (5 Pro Tricks)