Things You'll Need:
- Chainsaw file
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Step 1
Purchase a chainsaw file and make sure you have it with you whenever you are going to be using your chainsaw.
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Step 2
Use detergent and water to clean all of the dirt, grease and debris from your chainsaw's chain. The cleaner your chain, the easier it will be to sharpen. When you are cleaning your chain, be very careful so that you don't inadvertently get water inside the housing or in the engine which will ruin your chainsaw.
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Step 3
While you are cleaning the chain, make sure that there aren't any signs of wear such as broken or bent teeth. If the chain is getting worn, it will need to be replaced. Throw the old chain in the trash.
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Step 4
Place your chainsaw in a vice. This will prevent it from falling while you are sharpening the chain.
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Step 5
Choose a cutter (chain tooth) to sharpen. Use a permanent marker to mark the tooth, so that you will know where you started sharpening. Place you file in the notch in front of the cutter at a twenty-five degree angle.
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Step 6
Slide the file back and forth a few times. While you are filing make a slight twisting motion which will help move the metal flakes away from the chain.
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Step 7
Repeat the process with each cutter until you get all the way around the chain.
