Super Jolly Chainsaw Sharpener Tips (7 Pro Tricks For Perfect Edges)

Super Jolly Chainsaw Sharpener Tips: 7 Pro Tricks for Perfect Edges

Alright folks, let’s talk about something near and dear to the heart of anyone who’s ever wrestled with a log – chainsaw sharpening. And not just any sharpening, we’re diving deep into the world of the Super Jolly chainsaw sharpener, aiming for edges so keen they’ll make your saw sing through even the toughest hardwoods.

But before we get our hands dirty, let’s address the elephant in the room – safety. Chainsaws are powerful tools, and a dull chain is often more dangerous than a sharp one. A dull chain requires you to force the saw, increasing the risk of kickback and loss of control. Sharpening also involves potentially hazardous equipment. So, before you even think about touching that sharpener, let’s lay down some ground rules:

Always wear appropriate safety gear: This means safety glasses (no exceptions!), gloves, and hearing protection. I also recommend a face shield, especially when you’re just starting out.
Disconnect the chainsaw: This seems obvious, but it’s a critical step. Remove the spark plug wire to prevent accidental starts.
Read the Super Jolly manual: Every sharpener is slightly different. Familiarize yourself with the specific instructions and safety guidelines for your model.
Work in a well-lit and ventilated area: You need to see what you’re doing, and you don’t want to be breathing in metal filings.
Take your time: Rushing leads to mistakes, and mistakes can lead to injuries.

I’ve seen too many near misses in my years working with wood, and trust me, a little prevention goes a long way. Now that we’ve covered safety, let’s get down to the nitty-gritty of achieving those razor-sharp edges.

My Journey with the Super Jolly (and a few close calls)

I remember the first time I tried to sharpen a chainsaw. It was a disaster. I ended up with a chain that was duller than when I started, and a healthy dose of frustration. I even managed to nick my thumb – a painful reminder that respect for these tools is paramount. It wasn’t until I invested in a Super Jolly and learned the proper techniques that I truly understood the art of chainsaw sharpening.

The Super Jolly, for those unfamiliar, is a bench-mounted chainsaw sharpener designed for precision and consistency. It’s a step up from hand filing, offering a more controlled and accurate sharpening experience.

But even with a great tool like the Super Jolly, there’s a learning curve. That’s where these seven pro tricks come in. I’ve learned them through trial and error (mostly error!), and I’m sharing them with you to help you avoid the same pitfalls.

7 Pro Tricks for Super Jolly Chainsaw Sharpening

1. Mastering the Angles: The Key to Cutting Power

The most crucial aspect of chainsaw sharpening is understanding and maintaining the correct angles. These angles dictate how the cutter bites into the wood, and getting them wrong can lead to a dull chain, increased vibration, and even damage to your saw.

There are two primary angles you need to focus on:

Top Plate Angle: This is the angle of the top of the cutter relative to the side plate. It typically ranges from 55 to 60 degrees, but consult your chainsaw’s manual for the specific recommendation. This angle affects the aggressiveness of the cut. A steeper angle (closer to 60 degrees) will cut more aggressively in softwoods, while a shallower angle (closer to 55 degrees) is better for hardwoods.
Side Plate Angle: This is the angle of the side of the cutter relative to the chain. It typically ranges from 5 to 10 degrees. This angle affects the smoothness of the cut and helps prevent kickback.

Data Point: Studies have shown that maintaining the correct angles can increase cutting efficiency by up to 20%. A study done by Oregon State University’s forestry department found that chains sharpened with precise angles required less force to cut through various wood types.

How to Achieve Accurate Angles with the Super Jolly:

The Super Jolly makes angle adjustments relatively straightforward. The sharpener has adjustable guides and scales that allow you to set the desired angles precisely. The key is to:

Consult your chainsaw’s manual: This is your bible. It will tell you the recommended angles for your specific chain.
Use the Super Jolly’s scales: Don’t eyeball it. The scales are there for a reason. Use them to set the top plate and side plate angles accurately.
Double-check your settings: Before you start grinding, double-check that your angles are set correctly. A few seconds of verification can save you a lot of frustration later.
Practice on a scrap chain: If you’re new to the Super Jolly, practice on an old chain before you tackle your good one. This will give you a feel for the machine and allow you to fine-tune your settings.

Personal Story: I remember once, I was cutting some oak for firewood. I thought I had the angles right, but the saw was just bouncing off the wood. After a frustrating hour, I finally realized I had the top plate angle set incorrectly. Once I adjusted it, the saw cut through the oak like butter. Lesson learned: always double-check your angles!

2. Depth Gauge Domination: Taming the Rakers

The depth gauges, also known as rakers, are the small tabs in front of each cutter. Their purpose is to control how much the cutter bites into the wood. If the depth gauges are too high, the cutter won’t be able to grab the wood effectively, resulting in a dull chain. If they’re too low, the cutter will bite too aggressively, leading to kickback and a rough cut.

Data Point: A study by the Forest Products Laboratory found that properly filed depth gauges can reduce the risk of kickback by up to 30%.

How to File Depth Gauges:

Use a depth gauge tool: These tools are specifically designed to help you file the depth gauges to the correct height. They typically have a guide that sits on top of the cutters and a file that you use to lower the depth gauges.
File evenly: Make sure you file each depth gauge evenly. Uneven depth gauges can cause the saw to cut unevenly.
Round off the corners: After filing, use a flat file to round off the corners of the depth gauges. This will help prevent them from catching on the wood.
Consult your chainsaw’s manual: Your manual will tell you the recommended depth gauge setting for your specific chain.

Unique Insight: Many people overlook the importance of depth gauges, but they are just as important as the cutters. Properly filed depth gauges will not only improve the cutting performance of your saw but also reduce the risk of kickback.

Example: When cutting softwoods like pine, I tend to set my depth gauges slightly lower than recommended. This allows the cutters to bite more aggressively, resulting in faster cutting. However, when cutting hardwoods like oak, I set them to the recommended height to prevent kickback and a rough cut.

3. Grinding Wheel Selection: Choosing the Right Tool for the Job

The Super Jolly uses a grinding wheel to sharpen the cutters. Choosing the right grinding wheel is crucial for achieving a sharp and durable edge.

Types of Grinding Wheels:

Aluminum Oxide: These are the most common type of grinding wheel and are suitable for sharpening most chainsaw chains.
Pink Aluminum Oxide: These wheels are slightly harder than standard aluminum oxide wheels and are better for sharpening harder chains.
CBN (Cubic Boron Nitride): These are the most expensive type of grinding wheel but offer superior performance and durability. They are ideal for sharpening high-performance chains and for professional use.

How to Choose the Right Grinding Wheel:

Consider the type of chain you’re sharpening: If you’re sharpening a standard chain, an aluminum oxide wheel will suffice. If you’re sharpening a harder chain or a high-performance chain, consider using a pink aluminum oxide or CBN wheel.
Consider the grit size: The grit size of the grinding wheel determines the fineness of the edge. A finer grit will produce a sharper edge, but it will also remove less material. A coarser grit will remove more material but will produce a less sharp edge. I generally use an 80-grit wheel for initial sharpening and a 120-grit wheel for finishing.
Consider the wheel’s diameter and thickness: Make sure the wheel is the correct size for your Super Jolly.

Data Point: CBN grinding wheels can last up to 10 times longer than aluminum oxide wheels. While the initial investment is higher, the long-term cost can be lower due to their extended lifespan.

Practical Insight: I’ve found that using a CBN wheel on my professional-grade chains has significantly improved their cutting performance and durability. While they are more expensive, the investment has been well worth it.

4. The Light Touch: Avoiding Overheating

One of the biggest mistakes I see people make when using a Super Jolly is applying too much pressure. This can overheat the cutter, causing it to lose its temper and become brittle.

Why Overheating is Bad:

Loss of Temper: Heat can change the molecular structure of the steel, making it softer and less able to hold an edge.
Blueing: Overheated steel will often turn blue. This is a sign that the steel has lost its temper and is no longer suitable for cutting.
Weakened Cutters: Overheating can weaken the cutters, making them more prone to chipping and breaking.

How to Avoid Overheating:

Use a light touch: Let the grinding wheel do the work. Don’t force it.
Take multiple passes: Instead of trying to remove all the material in one pass, take several light passes.
Use coolant: Some Super Jolly models have a coolant system. Use it! Coolant will help keep the cutter cool and prevent overheating.
Check the cutter frequently: Stop frequently and check the cutter for signs of overheating. If you see any blueing, stop immediately and let the cutter cool down.

Case Study: I once saw a logger completely ruin a brand-new chain by overheating it. He was in a hurry and applied too much pressure, causing the cutters to turn blue. The chain was essentially useless after that. This is a prime example of why it’s so important to use a light touch and avoid overheating.

5. Consistency is King: Maintaining Uniformity

Consistency is key to achieving a smooth-cutting and long-lasting chain. This means sharpening each cutter to the same length and angle.

Why Consistency Matters:

Even Cutting: A consistent chain will cut evenly, reducing vibration and strain on the saw.
Longer Chain Life: A consistent chain will wear evenly, extending its lifespan.
Improved Safety: A consistent chain is less likely to kick back or bind.

How to Maintain Consistency:

Use the Super Jolly’s stop: The Super Jolly has a stop that allows you to set the depth of the grind. Use this stop to ensure that you’re removing the same amount of material from each cutter.
Count your strokes: Count the number of strokes you take on each cutter. This will help you maintain consistency.
Use a magnifying glass: Use a magnifying glass to inspect the cutters after sharpening. This will help you identify any inconsistencies.
Rotate the chain evenly: When rotating the chain, make sure you rotate it the same amount each time.

Personal Tip: I like to use a permanent marker to mark the starting point on the chain. This helps me keep track of where I am and ensures that I sharpen all the cutters.

6. Dressing the Grinding Wheel: Keeping it Sharp

Just like your chainsaw chain, the grinding wheel on your Super Jolly needs to be sharpened periodically. This process is called “dressing” the wheel.

Why Dressing is Important:

Removes Metal Build-up: Over time, metal filings can build up on the grinding wheel, reducing its cutting efficiency.
Exposes Fresh Abrasive: Dressing the wheel exposes fresh abrasive, restoring its cutting power.
Maintains Wheel Shape: Dressing helps maintain the wheel’s shape, ensuring accurate sharpening.

How to Dress the Grinding Wheel:

Use a dressing tool: There are several types of dressing tools available, including star dressers, diamond dressers, and abrasive sticks.
Follow the manufacturer’s instructions: Each dressing tool is slightly different. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully.
Dress the wheel regularly: How often you need to dress the wheel will depend on how often you use it. I generally dress my wheel after every few sharpening sessions.

Actionable Tip: A dull grinding wheel can cause the cutters to overheat. Dressing the wheel regularly will help prevent overheating and improve the quality of your sharpening.

7. The Final Touches: Deburring and Oiling

Once you’ve sharpened the chain, there are a few final touches you can do to improve its performance and longevity.

Deburring:

After sharpening, there may be small burrs on the edges of the cutters. These burrs can reduce the cutting efficiency of the chain.

Use a fine file: Use a fine file to remove any burrs from the edges of the cutters.
Be gentle: Be careful not to damage the cutters.

Oiling:

Oiling the chain after sharpening will help protect it from rust and corrosion.

Use chainsaw oil: Use a good quality chainsaw oil.
Apply liberally: Apply the oil liberally to the entire chain.

Data Point: Regular oiling can extend the life of your chainsaw chain by up to 25%.

Real-World Example: I always oil my chains after sharpening, even if I’m not planning on using them right away. This helps prevent rust and keeps them in good condition for when I need them. I’ve had chains that have lasted for years thanks to this simple practice.

Beyond the Basics: Wood Species and Cutting Techniques

Now that we’ve covered the sharpening basics, let’s delve into some more advanced topics: wood species and cutting techniques.

Understanding Wood Species

Different wood species have different densities, hardnesses, and grain patterns. These factors can affect how your chainsaw cuts and how quickly your chain dulls.

Common Wood Species:

Softwoods: Pine, fir, spruce, cedar. These woods are generally easier to cut and are less likely to dull your chain quickly.
Hardwoods: Oak, maple, birch, ash. These woods are denser and harder than softwoods and are more likely to dull your chain quickly.

Data Point: Oak is approximately twice as hard as pine, according to the Janka hardness scale.

How Wood Species Affect Sharpening:

Hardwoods: When cutting hardwoods, you’ll need to sharpen your chain more frequently. You may also want to use a chain with a more aggressive cutting angle.
Softwoods: When cutting softwoods, you can get away with sharpening your chain less frequently. You may also want to use a chain with a less aggressive cutting angle.

Personal Experience: I’ve found that cutting cedar is particularly hard on my chains. The cedar oils tend to build up on the cutters, reducing their cutting efficiency. I make sure to clean my chain frequently when cutting cedar.

Cutting Techniques

The way you cut wood can also affect how quickly your chain dulls.

Common Cutting Techniques:

Bucking: Cutting a log into shorter lengths.
Felling: Cutting down a tree.
Limbing: Removing branches from a tree.

How Cutting Techniques Affect Sharpening:

Cutting Dirty Wood: Cutting wood that is covered in dirt or debris will dull your chain quickly. Try to clean the wood before cutting it.
Pinching: Pinching occurs when the wood closes in on the chain, causing it to bind. Pinching can damage your chain and your saw. Avoid pinching by using wedges or by cutting from both sides of the log.
Cutting at an Angle: Cutting at an angle can put extra stress on the chain, causing it to dull more quickly. Try to cut as straight as possible.

Unique Insight: I’ve found that using a sharp chain and proper cutting techniques can significantly reduce the amount of time it takes to process firewood. A dull chain requires more effort and increases the risk of injury.

The Global Perspective: Challenges Faced by Hobbyists and Professionals

Chainsaw sharpening is a universal skill, but the challenges faced by hobbyists and professionals can vary depending on their location and resources.

Challenges Faced by Hobbyists:

Cost: Chainsaw sharpeners can be expensive, especially for hobbyists who only use their saws occasionally.
Knowledge: Learning how to sharpen a chainsaw can be daunting for beginners.
Time: Sharpening a chainsaw can be time-consuming, especially if you’re not experienced.

Challenges Faced by Small Logging Operations and Firewood Producers:

Efficiency: Small operations need to be efficient to be profitable. Sharpening chains quickly and effectively is essential.
Durability: Chains need to be durable enough to withstand the rigors of daily use.
Maintenance: Maintaining chains and sharpeners can be time-consuming and expensive.

Addressing the Challenges:

Education: Providing accessible and affordable education on chainsaw sharpening techniques.
Affordable Tools: Developing affordable and reliable chainsaw sharpeners for hobbyists and small operations.
Community Support: Creating online forums and communities where people can share tips and advice on chainsaw sharpening.

Final Thoughts:

Sharpening a chainsaw is a skill that takes time and practice to master. But with the right tools and techniques, you can achieve razor-sharp edges that will make your saw sing through even the toughest wood. Remember to prioritize safety, understand the angles, and maintain consistency. And don’t be afraid to experiment and find what works best for you.

So, grab your Super Jolly, put on your safety glasses, and get ready to transform your dull chain into a cutting machine! Happy sharpening!

Super Jolly Chainsaw Sharpener Tips (7 Pro Tricks for Perfect Edges)