Things You'll Need:
- Chainsaw
- Bar and chain oil
- Oil rags or towels
- Rubbing alcohol
- Packaging paper
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Step 1
Disconnect the chainsaw's spark-plug wire from its socket. This will prevent the chainsaw from accidentally turning on while you're cleaning it. If you're not sure where the spark-plug wire is or how to access it, consult your owner's manual.
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Step 2
Brush away with your bare hands any loose chunks of dirt and debris. Then soak an old rag or towel in clean water and wipe down the entire exterior of the saw, including the bar and chain. Continue wiping with the damp rag until the entire saw looks essentially clean.
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Step 3
Dab some rubbing alcohol onto a different rag and go over the saw again, looking closely for areas that are particularly dirty. The rubbing alcohol will quickly cut through the more stubborn stains.
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Step 4
Check and top off the oil reservoir with bar and chain oil. Reattach the spark-plug wire. Start up the chainsaw; give the motor a minute to warm up and then rev the chain a few times. Do not, however, rev the chain all the way up to its maximum speed or hold it at a high rev for any prolonged period of time. This process is just to distribute the fresh oil throughout the chain and bar.
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Step 5
Allow the saw to cool completely, then wrap it loosely in packaging paper. If you have the kind of packaging paper with a water-resistant treatment on one side, make sure that side is on the outside. Place the paper-wrapped saw in a dry, secure place until it needs to be retrieved.
