Things You'll Need:
- Chainsaw
- Owner's Manual
-
Step 1
Read the manual. Depending on the brand you buy, most chainsaws come with a manual to guide you through the process of shortening the chain.
-
Step 2
Determine if the chain needs to be shortened. Unless you’ve bought a chain from a different manufacturer than your chainsaw, the chains shouldn’t need shortening unless they are not oiled properly or if they have lengthened due to wear and tear. You can tell if your chain needs shortening if it is stretched and the tension is very loose.
-
Step 3
Check to see if the chain has a master link. Depending on the manufacturer, some chainsaws come with a master link which will look different than the rest. This can be unsnapped and snapped back into place once you’ve shortened the chain. Many suppliers use chains on a spool so there isn’t a master link. However, it is recommended that you put one on after you have shortened the chain.
-
Step 4
Purchase a punch or a pocket chain breaker. If there isn’t a master link, you can use a punch or chain breaker kit to punch out the extra rivets on the chain. These special tools resemble a modified vise grip and will knock the extra link out with very little trouble.
-
Step 5
Reassemble the chain. Once you’ve snapped out the extra links and added the master link (if necessary), you should be able to snap it back together. The chain should be tight on the blade and fit perfectly.
-
Step 6
Take the chainsaw to a professional. If you aren’t sure about how to shorten the chain, the best alternative is to have a hardware store help you out. It usually only costs a few bucks and they can remove as many links as you need. They can even show you how to use the punch or pocket chain breaker for future reference.
