When your chainsaw starts to blow smoke, you may wonder what the problem is. If the smoke is an unusual color like blue or black, you'll want to address the problem quickly. What could be the reason behind the smoke? We've searched the web for some answers, and we'll share them with you.
There are several reasons why a chainsaw may start blowing smoke. These reasons include:
- Blunt chain
- Insufficient oil
- Problems with air filter
- Chain is hard to move
- Too much oil in the gasoline-oil mix
In addition to the reasons behind a smoking chainsaw, we will also discuss the three colors of smoke that may come out of the device. We've also included several chainsaw tools and accessories you may need.
![Old Smoking Chainsaw, Why Is My Chainsaw Blowing Smoke [Inc. Blue, White & Black]?](https://gardentabs.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/13.-Why-Is-My-Chainsaw-Blowing-Smoke-Inc.-Blue-White-_-Black.jpg)
Reasons Why Your Chainsaw Is Blowing Smoke
There are various reasons why a chainsaw blows smoke. Here are the top five issues:
Blunt Chain
A blunt chainsaw chain is one of the top reasons why a chainsaw produces smoke. Knowing when you should sharpen the chain is crucial so that you can get the most out of your device.
How will you know if your chainsaw needs sharpening?
- The chainsaw produces smoke.
- The chainsaw creates pressure or tension while cutting.
- Powdery wood is produced when cutting instead of rough pieces.
- It creates an irregular or jagged cut.
When your chainsaw shows one or more of these signs, you should sharpen it. Carefully grind the chainsaw teeth first, followed by the rakers.
Then inspect the chainsaw bar. Sharpening your chainsaw is vital, so do it step-by-step according to the method covered above.
Insufficient Oil
To help with friction in the chainsaw, you should keep it oiled. Too much friction can cause pressure on the chainsaw when cutting and cause the device to produce smoke.
Problems With Air Filter
The air filter is an essential chainsaw part. When you use the chainsaw, wood debris can collect in the air filter and block it.
With no air passing through due to the clogged filter, your chainsaw will overheat and produce smoke. When you have a dirty filter, it can damage the chainsaw's engine. You should check and clean the air filter regularly.
Chain Is Hard To Move
Another cause of chainsaw smoke is a chain that's hard to move. You should check and test the strain of the chain over the chainsaw bar. Make sure it isn't detached or too compressed to prevent smoke and damage to the chainsaw.
Too Much Oil In The Gasoline-Oil Mix
Another cause for a chainsaw blowing smoke is an unbalanced mix of gasoline and oil. To find out the proper balance, check your user's manual or search the web for the answer that's suitable to your model.
You should always use clean, high-quality oil and the best fuel. If you see any contaminants in the fuel mixture, you should change it.
What Do These Colors Of Smoke Mean?
Here are the three colors that may come out on your chainsaw. Let's find out the meaning behind each color.
Blue Smoke
If blue smoke comes out of your chainsaw, the device probably has a flooded engine, or there's an overflow of fuel.
Black Smoke
If your chainsaw emits black smoke from the exhaust, it's probably due to the following:
- You used the wrong oil-to-fuel ratio in the fuel mix (excessive oil).
- Your carburetor is not accurately adjusted, so it causes extra fuel to enter the engine.
White Smoke
If your chainsaw blows out white smoke, it could indicate that:
- There's water build-up brewing in the chainsaw.
- You used a poor-grade fuel/oil.
FAQs About Chainsaws
Below are some frequently asked questions about chainsaws.
How Can You Tell If A Chainsaw Is Overheating?
Several signs indicate that a chainsaw is overheating.
- Colored smoke: The chainsaw gives off a different color of smoke than the typical exhaust smoke.
- Not working effectively: You many noice a sudden or incremental decline in execution.
- Strange sounds: The chainsaw emits unusual sounds.
How Long Can You Run A Chainsaw?
The amount of time you can run a chainsaw depends on the type and usage. But the average time a gas chainsaw should be run is 15 to 40 minutes. In comparison, you can use battery-powered chainsaws for two hours at most.
Do Chainsaws Need To Cool Down?
Yes, chainsaws need to cool down to prevent overheating. They contain a cooling system or a flywheel fan on the starter side to avoid overheating.
To keep your chainsaw from overheating, you should clean it regularly and make sure you let it cool down for at least 10 minutes after use before adding more fuel and tackling another job.
Top Three Chainsaw Brands
Numerous chainsaw brands are available worldwide, but here are some of the best, most widely known brands.
Stihl
Stihl is possibly the best-selling brand overall. Stihl is a German company. It offers a wide array of superior-quality chainsaws for experts and homeowners.
Click here to see this Stihl chainsaw chain on Amazon.
Black And Decker
Black & Decker is a well-known machine and tool manufacturer. Established as a machine shop in Maryland in 1910, it now produces durable and affordable power tools.
Click here to see this Black & Decker chainsaw on Amazon.
Husqvarna
Husqvarna is a Swedish brand that showcased its first chainsaw in 1959. Since then, its reputation has grown, and it has created some of the best chainsaws for pros and homeowners.
Click here to see this Husqvarna chainsaw on Amazon.
Must-Have Chainsaw Tools And Accessories
We've included several chainsaw accessories that may be helpful to you.
Bei And Hong Mini 6-Inch Cordless Power Chainsaw
Click here to see this mini power chainsaw on Amazon.
Bei and Hong's mini chainsaw is one of Amazon's bestsellers in power chainsaws. It has a safety lock and a splash guard to protect you when using it.
Key Features:
- Upgraded copper wire high-efficiency motor
- Large-capacity battery pack
- Convenient one-hand use
Sharp Pebble Electric Chainsaw Sharpener Kit
Click here to see this tool on Amazon.
The Sharp Pebble Sharpener Kit is one of Amazon's choices for electric chainsaw sharpeners.
Key Features:
- Easier to use than a hand file.
- Has a super-sharp chain that works in seconds
- Efficient, fast, and accurate
DEWALT Biodegradable High-Performance Chainsaw Oil
Click here to see this product on Amazon.
DeWalt oil is a USDA Certified Bio-based Product. It provides superior quality and high-grade lubrication for your chainsaw.
Key Features:
- Eco-friendly and biodegradable lubricant
- Has a nontoxic formula
- High performance and excellent stability
Vgo Chainsaw Cow Leather Gloves
Click here to see this product on Amazon.
Vgo's cow leather gloves are made with 12-layers of protection to provide you with maximum safety. These gloves are CA65 and CE certified and meet the REACH regulations.
Key Features:
- It provides extra cut resistance and protection
- 3D pre-curved finger for a 45° angle cutting
- It provides exceptional dexterity and breathability
Yskjyxgs Chainsaw Holder
Click here to see this product on Amazon.
This high-quality chainsaw holder has a unique design. It can be used during transport or at home and accommodates various chainsaw sizes.
Key Features:
- Made from superior quality and durable materials
- Easy-to-install and easy-to-carry
- Has a range of accessories
SUNGATOR 3-Pack 16-Inch Replacement Chainsaw Chain
Click here to see this product on Amazon.
The SUNGATOR replacement chain is one of Amazon's bestsellers in chainsaw chains. It's compatible with various bar lengths.
Key Features:
- Made with superior industrial chrome
- Durable and long-lasting
- It can accommodate all sizes of chainsaws.
MotBach 6 Pack Chainsaw Scrench Replacement Tool
Click here to see this product on Amazon.
The MotBach scrench tool is one of Amazon's choices for chainsaw tools. The package includes various types and sizes of chainsaw screnches.
Key Features:
- Made of durable, superior-quality steel
- Compact and easy to carry and store
- Multifunctional
Chainsaw: Smoking No More
We've learned that there are at least five reasons why a chainsaw blows smoke, including a clogged air filter, insufficient oiling, and a blunt chain.
We also covered the differences and causes of blue, black, and white smoke issuing from a chainsaw. With this knowledge, you can address and fix certain issues and avoid future problems with your chainsaw.
You can check our list above if you're looking for the best chainsaw brands in the market today. If you ever need tools and accessories, we've also included several essential ones.
If you found this article helpful, check out these related posts:
Do Chainsaw Chains Come Sharpened And With The Chain?
Should You Run A Chainsaw At Full Throttle?