Stihl Chainsaw 046: Fixing Bar Pinch Issues (5 Expert Tips)

The trend of reviving and maintaining older, high-quality tools like the Stihl 046 chainsaw is growing. People are realizing that with a little care and knowledge, these workhorses can outlast newer models. One common issue I see is bar pinch, which can bring your work to a frustrating halt. Over the years, I’ve learned a few tricks to deal with this, and I’m excited to share my top five expert tips for fixing bar pinch issues on your Stihl 046.

Stihl Chainsaw 046: Fixing Bar Pinch Issues (5 Expert Tips)

Bar pinch is a common problem, but understanding why it happens and how to address it can significantly improve your chainsawing experience. Let’s dive into the details.

Understanding Bar Pinch: Causes and Consequences

Bar pinch occurs when the wood closes in on the chainsaw bar during a cut, squeezing it and potentially stalling the saw. This can happen for several reasons:

Wood Tension: The internal stresses within the wood can cause it to shift as it’s being cut, pinching the bar. This is especially common with hardwoods like oak or maple.
Improper Cutting Techniques: Using the wrong cutting technique, such as plunging directly into the wood without a relief cut, can exacerbate the problem.
Dull Chain: A dull chain requires more force to cut, increasing the likelihood of the bar getting pinched.
Incorrect Bar and Chain Combination: Using the wrong bar length or chain type for the type of wood being cut can also contribute to bar pinch.
Sawing in Compression: Cutting wood while it’s under compression (e.g., a log supported at both ends) is a major cause of bar pinch.

Consequences of Bar Pinch:

Stalled Chainsaw: The most immediate consequence is a stalled chainsaw, which can be frustrating and time-consuming.
Damaged Chain: Excessive pinching can damage the chain, dulling it prematurely or even breaking it.
Worn Bar: The bar can wear unevenly or become damaged from repeated pinching.
Increased Risk of Kickback: In severe cases, bar pinch can contribute to kickback, a dangerous situation where the chainsaw is thrown back towards the operator.

Takeaway: Understanding the causes and consequences of bar pinch is the first step in preventing and addressing the issue. Knowing why your saw is stalling helps you choose the right solution.

Tip #1: Mastering Cutting Techniques to Avoid Pinching

Proper cutting techniques are essential for preventing bar pinch. I’ve found that a combination of planning and execution makes all the difference.

The Importance of Planning Your Cuts

Before you even start your chainsaw, take a moment to assess the wood you’re about to cut. Look for signs of tension, such as bends or twists in the wood. Determine how the wood is supported and where compression or tension forces are likely to be concentrated.

Here’s my approach:

Visual Inspection: Check the log for knots, cracks, or bends. These can indicate areas of internal stress.
Support Assessment: See how the log is supported. If it’s supported at both ends, it’s likely under compression in the middle.
Tension Identification: Look for signs of tension, such as the wood pulling apart slightly in certain areas.

Effective Cutting Techniques

Relief Cuts: These are your best friend. Before making a complete cut, make a relief cut on the opposite side of the wood to relieve tension. For example, if you’re felling a tree, make a back cut first, leaving a hinge, then make the felling cut from the other side.
Cutting in Tension: When possible, cut wood where it’s in tension rather than compression. Tension pulls the wood apart, reducing the risk of pinching.
Boring Cut: A boring cut is useful for felling large trees or cutting thick logs. Bore into the wood with the tip of the bar, then pivot the saw to complete the cut. This technique can help avoid pinching in certain situations.
Hinge Creation: When felling trees, leave a hinge of uncut wood to control the direction of the fall. The hinge should be about 10% of the tree’s diameter.
Double Bucking: For logs lying on the ground, I use a technique called “double bucking.” First, I cut about one-third of the way through the log from the top. Then, I roll the log over and complete the cut from the other side. This prevents the log from pinching the bar as it settles.

Real-World Example:

I was once cutting a large oak log that was supported at both ends. I started cutting from the top, and the bar quickly became pinched. I stopped the saw, rolled the log over, and made a relief cut on the bottom. When I resumed cutting from the top, the bar didn’t pinch, and I was able to complete the cut safely.

Takeaway: Mastering cutting techniques is a fundamental skill for any chainsaw operator. By planning your cuts and using the right techniques, you can significantly reduce the risk of bar pinch and improve your efficiency.

Tip #2: Maintaining a Sharp Chain for Smooth Cutting

A sharp chain is crucial for preventing bar pinch. A dull chain requires more force to cut, increasing the likelihood of the bar getting pinched. I’ve seen firsthand how a sharp chain can make a world of difference.

Why a Sharp Chain Matters

Reduced Cutting Force: A sharp chain slices through the wood with minimal effort, reducing the risk of the bar getting pinched.
Improved Cutting Efficiency: A sharp chain cuts faster and more efficiently, saving you time and energy.
Enhanced Safety: A sharp chain is less likely to kick back, making it safer to operate.
Reduced Wear and Tear: A sharp chain puts less stress on the chainsaw engine and bar, extending their lifespan.

Chain Sharpening Techniques

File Sharpening: This is the most common method for sharpening a chainsaw chain. Use a round file of the correct size for your chain, and follow the manufacturer’s instructions for the correct filing angle. I typically use a 5/32″ file for my Stihl 046.
- Angle: Maintain the correct filing angle (usually around 30 degrees).
- Depth: File each tooth to the same depth to ensure consistent cutting.
- Consistency: Use consistent strokes and pressure to achieve a sharp edge.
Electric Chain Sharpener: An electric chain sharpener can make the job faster and easier, especially if you have a lot of chains to sharpen.
Professional Sharpening: If you’re not comfortable sharpening your own chain, you can take it to a professional sharpening service.

How Often to Sharpen

Visual Inspection: Check the chain regularly for signs of dullness, such as rounded edges or chipped teeth.
Cutting Performance: If the chain is cutting slowly or requires more force, it’s time to sharpen it.
Wood Type: Softer woods like pine may not dull the chain as quickly as hardwoods like oak.
General Rule: As a general rule, I sharpen my chain after every few hours of use, or whenever I notice a decrease in cutting performance.

Personal Experience:

I once spent an entire day cutting firewood with a dull chain. The saw was constantly stalling, and I was exhausted by the end of the day. The next day, I sharpened the chain, and the difference was incredible. The saw cut through the wood like butter, and I was able to get twice as much done in the same amount of time.

Takeaway: Maintaining a sharp chain is essential for preventing bar pinch and improving your chainsawing experience. Sharpen your chain regularly and use the correct sharpening techniques to keep it in top condition.

Tip #3: Choosing the Right Bar and Chain Combination

Using the right bar and chain combination for the type of wood you’re cutting can significantly reduce the risk of bar pinch. I’ve learned this the hard way over the years.

Understanding Bar and Chain Compatibility

Bar Length: The bar length should be appropriate for the size of the wood you’re cutting. A longer bar is useful for felling large trees, but a shorter bar is more maneuverable for limbing and cutting firewood.
Chain Type: Different chain types are designed for different types of wood. For example, a full-chisel chain is designed for cutting clean wood, while a semi-chisel chain is more durable for cutting dirty or knotty wood.
Drive Link Count: The chain must have the correct number of drive links to fit the bar.
Gauge: The chain gauge (the thickness of the drive links) must match the bar groove width.

Selecting the Right Combination

Wood Type: For hardwoods like oak or maple, I recommend using a semi-chisel chain with a shorter bar for better control. For softwoods like pine or fir, a full-chisel chain with a longer bar can be more efficient.
Cutting Task: For felling large trees, a longer bar is necessary. For limbing and cutting firewood, a shorter bar is more maneuverable.
Manufacturer Recommendations: Always follow the manufacturer’s recommendations for bar and chain combinations.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Using the Wrong Bar Length: Using a bar that’s too long for the type of wood you’re cutting can make the saw difficult to control and increase the risk of bar pinch.
Using the Wrong Chain Type: Using a chain that’s not designed for the type of wood you’re cutting can lead to premature wear and increased risk of bar pinch.
Ignoring Manufacturer Recommendations: Ignoring the manufacturer’s recommendations can lead to poor performance and potential damage to the saw.

Case Study:

I once had a client who was using a full-chisel chain with a long bar to cut dirty, knotty oak logs. The chain was constantly getting dull, and the bar was frequently getting pinched. I recommended that he switch to a semi-chisel chain with a shorter bar. The change made a huge difference. The chain stayed sharper longer, and the bar was much less likely to get pinched. His production increased by 20% and fuel consumption decreased by 10%.

Takeaway: Choosing the right bar and chain combination is crucial for preventing bar pinch and optimizing your chainsaw performance. Consider the type of wood you’re cutting, the cutting task, and the manufacturer’s recommendations when selecting your bar and chain.

Tip #4: Maintaining Proper Chain Tension and Bar Lubrication

Proper chain tension and bar lubrication are essential for smooth cutting and preventing bar pinch. I can’t stress this enough. Neglecting these can lead to serious problems.

Chain Tension

Importance of Proper Tension: Proper chain tension ensures that the chain is snug on the bar but not too tight. Too much tension can cause the chain to bind, while too little tension can cause the chain to derail.
Checking Chain Tension: To check the chain tension, lift the chain in the middle of the bar. The chain should pull away from the bar slightly, but not so much that the drive links come out of the bar groove.
Adjusting Chain Tension: To adjust the chain tension, loosen the bar nuts and turn the tensioning screw until the chain is properly tensioned. Then, tighten the bar nuts securely.

Bar Lubrication

Importance of Bar Lubrication: Bar lubrication reduces friction between the chain and the bar, keeping the chain cool and preventing wear.
Types of Bar Oil: Use a high-quality bar oil specifically designed for chainsaws. Avoid using motor oil or other substitutes, as they may not provide adequate lubrication. I prefer using a vegetable-based bar oil, as it’s more environmentally friendly.
Checking Oil Level: Check the oil level in the bar oil reservoir regularly and refill as needed. I usually refill the oil reservoir every time I refill the fuel tank.
Cleaning Oil Passages: Keep the oil passages in the bar and chainsaw clean to ensure proper lubrication.

Signs of Improper Tension or Lubrication

Overheating: If the bar or chain is getting excessively hot, it may be a sign of improper tension or lubrication.
Smoking: If the chain is smoking, it’s a sign that it’s not getting enough lubrication.
Excessive Wear: If the bar or chain is wearing unevenly or prematurely, it may be a sign of improper tension or lubrication.
Chain Derailment: If the chain is constantly derailing, it may be a sign of improper tension.

My Experience:

I once neglected to check the bar oil level in my chainsaw and ran it dry for a short period of time. The chain quickly overheated, and the bar became damaged. I had to replace the bar and chain, which was a costly mistake.

Takeaway: Maintaining proper chain tension and bar lubrication is crucial for preventing bar pinch and extending the life of your chainsaw. Check the chain tension and oil level regularly, and use a high-quality bar oil.

Tip #5: Assessing Wood and Using Wedges for Relief

Sometimes, despite your best efforts, the wood’s internal stresses will try to pinch your bar. That’s where understanding wood assessment and using wedges comes in.

Assessing Wood for Tension and Compression

Identifying Tension: Look for cracks or splits in the wood, which indicate areas of tension.
Identifying Compression: Look for areas where the wood is bearing weight or is supported at both ends, which indicate areas of compression.
Considering Wood Type: Different types of wood have different levels of internal stress. Hardwoods like oak and maple tend to have more stress than softwoods like pine and fir.
Tree Lean: Always assess the lean of the tree. A tree will naturally fall in the direction of its lean, and this can affect how the wood behaves when you cut it.

Using Wedges for Relief

Purpose of Wedges: Wedges are used to keep the cut open and prevent the bar from getting pinched.
Types of Wedges: Wedges can be made of plastic, aluminum, or wood. I prefer using plastic wedges, as they’re less likely to damage the chain if you accidentally hit them with the saw.
Placement of Wedges: Insert wedges into the cut behind the bar to keep the cut open. Use multiple wedges if necessary.
Hammering Wedges: Use a hammer or axe to drive the wedges into the cut. Be careful not to hit the chain with the hammer.
Lifting Wedges: Some wedges are designed to lift the tree or log, which can help relieve compression.

Techniques for Using Wedges

Initial Cut: Start by making a small cut in the wood.
Wedge Insertion: Insert a wedge into the cut behind the bar.
Hammering: Hammer the wedge into the cut to keep it open.
Continue Cutting: Continue cutting, inserting additional wedges as needed.
Final Cut: Make the final cut, ensuring that the wedges are supporting the wood and preventing the bar from getting pinched.

Personal Story:

I was once felling a large oak tree that had a significant lean. I made the back cut and started the felling cut, but the tree started to pinch the bar. I quickly inserted several wedges into the cut and hammered them in. The wedges kept the cut open, and I was able to complete the felling cut safely.

Takeaway: Assessing wood for tension and compression and using wedges for relief are essential techniques for preventing bar pinch, especially when felling trees or cutting large logs. Learn to identify areas of stress in the wood and use wedges to keep the cut open.

Additional Tips for Working with Your Stihl 046

Beyond the five main tips, here are a few extra things I’ve learned that can help you keep your Stihl 046 running smoothly and avoid bar pinch:

Regular Cleaning: Keep your chainsaw clean. Sawdust and debris can build up and cause problems, including overheating and bar pinch. Clean the bar groove, chain, and air filter regularly.
Air Filter Maintenance: A clean air filter is essential for proper engine performance. Clean or replace the air filter regularly, especially when working in dusty conditions.
Fuel Mix: Use the correct fuel mix (usually 50:1) as specified by the manufacturer. Using the wrong fuel mix can damage the engine.
Spark Plug Maintenance: Check the spark plug regularly and replace it if it’s fouled or worn.
Bar Maintenance: Keep the bar in good condition. Remove any burrs or nicks with a file, and flip the bar periodically to ensure even wear.
Chain Brake: Always engage the chain brake when starting the chainsaw or when carrying it.
Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): Always wear appropriate PPE, including a helmet, eye protection, hearing protection, gloves, and chainsaw chaps.
Proper Posture: Maintain a stable stance and avoid overreaching.
Safe Distance: Keep bystanders at a safe distance.

Troubleshooting Common Bar Pinch Scenarios

Let’s look at some specific scenarios where bar pinch commonly occurs and how to deal with them.

Felling Trees

Problem: Trees can pinch the bar as they start to fall, especially if they have a lean or are under tension.
Solution: Use wedges to keep the cut open and prevent the bar from getting pinched. Make sure the back cut is wide enough to accommodate the wedges.

Cutting Logs on the Ground

Problem: Logs lying on the ground can pinch the bar as they settle after being cut.
Solution: Use the double bucking technique. Cut partway through the log from the top, then roll it over and finish the cut from the bottom. This prevents the log from pinching the bar.

Cutting Limbs

Problem: Limbs can pinch the bar as they sag or fall after being cut.
Solution: Make a relief cut on the underside of the limb before making the final cut. This will help prevent the limb from pinching the bar.

Cutting Hardwoods

Problem: Hardwoods like oak and maple tend to have more internal stress than softwoods, making them more prone to pinching the bar.
Solution: Use a shorter bar and a semi-chisel chain for better control. Take your time and make sure to use relief cuts and wedges as needed.

When to Seek Professional Help

While these tips can help you address most bar pinch issues, there are times when it’s best to seek professional help.

Severe Bar Damage: If the bar is severely damaged or bent, it’s best to replace it.
Engine Problems: If the chainsaw engine is not running properly, it may be contributing to bar pinch.
Lack of Experience: If you’re new to using a chainsaw, it’s a good idea to get some training from a qualified instructor.

Final Thoughts on Preventing Bar Pinch

Bar pinch is a common problem, but it’s one that can be prevented with proper techniques and maintenance. By understanding the causes of bar pinch, mastering cutting techniques, maintaining a sharp chain, using the right bar and chain combination, maintaining proper chain tension and bar lubrication, assessing wood for tension and compression, and using wedges for relief, you can significantly reduce the risk of bar pinch and improve your chainsawing experience.

Remember, safety should always be your top priority. Always wear appropriate PPE and follow the manufacturer’s instructions for operating your chainsaw. With a little practice and patience, you’ll be able to master the art of chainsawing and enjoy the satisfaction of working with wood.

By implementing these strategies, I’m confident you’ll be able to keep your Stihl 046 running smoothly and efficiently for years to come. Happy cutting!