Have you ever found an oil stain under your chainsaw? Apparently so if you’re reading this article. And we know how to store a chainsaw so it doesn’t leak oil.
If you notice your chainsaw leaking bar oil when it’s stored, there are a few potential reasons why. Read to the end to eliminate all causes and achieve oil leaking-free storage.
Why Does My Chainsaw Leak Oil When Stored?
There are several reasons why your chainsaw might leak oil ports when stored. Let’s list them all to store your chainsaw without oil leaking:
- Poor ventilation of the fuel tank and oil tanks.
- Overfilling of the oil tank.
- Oil ports line leakage.
- Damaged O-ring or gasket on the bar.
- Oil reservoir cap isn’t tight enough.
- Test run without work done.
If you have already noticed that your chainsaw is leaking oil, don’t let it go unnoticed. Oil leakage leaves stubborn stains that are very hard to get rid of. It may also indicate a problem in the bar and chain oil tanks.
That’s why we’re here to get to the bottom of the oil leaking problem.
Let’s take a closer look at each of the causes that prevent you to store a chainsaw without oil leaking.
Storage temperature and ventilation
Poor ventilation of the oil tank can cause a chainsaw to leak oil ports when stored. When the chainsaw is not in use, the oil inside the tank can expand due to temperature changes.
If there is no ventilation in the tank, the pressure can build up and force the oil out of the tank and onto the bar and chain.
If the chainsaw oil tank in your chainsaw is overfilled, it can cause chainsaw oil ports to seep into various parts of its assembly.
This is especially common with limited storage space where temperature changes are frequent or extreme differences between day/nighttime periods.
Malfunctions of chainsaw parts and components
The oil line is responsible for transporting the bar oil from the chainsaw oil tank to the oil pump. So, if the oil line in a chainsaw is punctured, it can cause oil to leak out of the chainsaw.
By the way, do you know what you can use for your chainsaw bar oil to save your money?
An O-ring gasket is a mechanical seal that fills the space between two or more mating surfaces, generally to prevent leakage from or into the joined objects while under compression.
Usually, it is a loop of elastomer with a circular cross-section similar to the shape of a letter O.
The nuances of the previous use
If you find that the oil reservoir cap is not tight enough, you can try tightening it by turning it clockwise. However, be careful not to overtighten it as this can cause damage to the cap or the threads on the chainsaw oil reservoir.
You’d be surprised, but among the reasons why chainsaw oil leaking occurs would be a test run without cutting. This is because the oil pump is still working and pumping oil onto the bar and chain, but since there is no wood to cut, the excess oil has nowhere to go and can leak out of the saw.
How to Keep Chainsaw Away from Leaking Oil?
To prevent oil leakage from your chainsaw, you can follow these steps:
#1 Check the oil reservoir before storage
Overfilling the reservoir can result in oil leakage since the oil expands as the temperature changes.
If your chainsaw has a two-cycle engine and you have properly mixed gasoline and oil, checking the oil is as easy as making sure there is enough fuel mixture in the tank. Some chainsaws have a translucent tank, so you can easily see the level of gas mixture in the fuel tank.
If your chainsaw has an opaque tank, you should follow these steps:
- Clean the chainsaw thoroughly.
- Remove the oil cap and check the oil level. The level should be between the minimum and maximum marks on the dipstick.
- If the oil level is low, add more oil to the reservoir. Yes, you should add more oil to the reservoir before storing your chainsaw. This is because the oil will help lubricate the chain and bar during storage and prevent rust from forming on the metal parts of the chainsaw.
- Replace the oil cap and wipe off any excess oil.
#2 Secure the plugs before storage
You should always double-check that the rubber plugs for the oil are in place and secure before storage. Buffer plug caps made of plastic or rubber wear out over time, but replacements are cheap.
You can type Rubber Fuel Tank Vent Plug in your search box and get a bunch of offers from Ali Express, Amazon and others. Usually, the package includes five or ten fill plugs. Make sure you see your chainsaw model in the fit for line to buy the correct size.
#3 Store chainsaw in a storage case
A chainsaw storage case helps you protect your equipment from damage, allows for easier transport, and also provides the necessary space for your accessories.
When you purchase a STIHL chainsaw, you’re investing in the #1 selling brand of chainsaws in the world. Be sure to protect that investment with a heavy-duty STIHL carrying case and scabbard.
www.stihlusa.com
If you’re in doubt about whether a chainsaw case would be a good buy, consider that it will protect the trunk of your car from oil stains, sawdust, and other debris. The chainsaw case can be conveniently fastened during transport or storage.
#4 Check the inner body of your chainsaw before storing it
Before storing your chainsaw, you should clean and check a few mechanical points for any damage or wear and tear.
Inspect these mechanical parts carefully:
- chain brake,
- chain catcher,
- throttle lockout,
- Compressed air filter,
- oil pump,
- spark plugs,
- oil tank vent,
- outlets near the clutch.
If you notice any damage or wear and tear, you should replace the damaged parts before storing the chainsaw. If the oil pressure builds up inside the tool until oil leaks out of the lines, it could be due to a clogged oil filter or a damaged oil pump. You should have your chainsaw inspected by a professional if you notice any issues.
Servicing a few mechanical points
To service the spark plugs in your chainsaw, you should first remove the spark plug from the engine. Then clean it with a wire brush and check the gap between the electrodes. If the gap is too large or too small, you should adjust it accordingly.
Maintenance of filters will also not be difficult. The fuel filter is located in the fuel line, it is usually removed easily and conveniently. It should be pulled out and cleaned with a wire brush.
The air filter is located under the air filter cover. Take it out and clean it, sometimes a simple blow-through is sufficient.
#5 Issues of upright storage of a chainsaw
It is safe to hang your chainsaw for vertical storage as long as you take the necessary precautions. You should make sure that the chainsaw is securely fastened and that the chain is not touching anything.
As for storing your chainsaw so that it doesn’t lose oil, be warned that vertical storage increases the chance of gas and oil leakage. And you have two ways to handle this situation: drain the fluids at once or adjust the pressure in the chainsaw’s tanks.
Drain the chainsaw’s oil and gas beforehand
Draining all the fluids from the chainsaw will avoid oil leaks. Sure, no oil means no oil leaking. But dry storage increases the risk of rusting on the chainsaw’s metal parts.
A rust inhibitor spray can be used to protect your chainsaw from rust when stored vertically. This can be the same as the chainsaw oil or a silicone spray approved by the tool manufacturer.
Anyway, before applying the rust inhibitor, make sure the chainsaw is clean and free of debris. Also make sure that the chainsaw is stored in a dry place and not exposed to moisture.
Storing your chainsaw with leftover fluid
Vertical storage of your chainsaw with residual fluids in the fuel reservoir can be dangerous. Over time, leftover fuel fluids can release gases, creating excessive pressure in the chainsaw’s tanks. This will cause oil to leak in unsealed areas.
Fuel mixture, oil and their gases are highly flammable. Smoking near it or summer heat can cause an unexpected ignition. So, if you do insist on storing liquids inside the chainsaw, keep an eye on the pressure in the tanks.
You should vent the chainsaw tanks every few days. But visiting the shed to unscrew and tighten the tank cap isn’t much fun, is it? So, think twice. When asked how to store a chainsaw in the off-season, the answer from pros is this:
Drain all fuel and bar oil from the chainsaw. Start the chainsaw and allow to idle (chain brake disengaged) until all of the fuel has run out and the chainsaw stops working.
Husqvarna customer service
#6 Hanging by rear handle
Hanging your chainsaw by the rear handle can cause oil leakage. This is because the fuel and oil can leak down your chainsaw bar if you hang it in this way. The same problem occurs if you store the chainsaw vertically.
To store your chainsaw for a while, you should choose a space that is dry and out of direct sunlight to reduce the chance of rusting over time. Clean and maintain the chainsaw before putting it into the tool shed.
Hanging by the brake stop
It is not recommended to hang your chainsaw by the brake stop to store it. When you hang your chainsaw by the brake stop, the fuel tank and oil can leak down your chainsaw bar. This is because the fuel and oil are not in their proper place when the chainsaw is hung in this way.
It is not recommended to hang your chainsaw by the rear handle or brake stop to store it. If you are serious about storing your saw by hanging it, you should drain the oil and fuel tanks beforehand. The rear handle and brake stop are quite sturdy.
Don’t store chainsaw on its sides
To store your chainsaw properly, see how they are stored at the retailer or tool rental place. 100% percent that no chainsaw will just lie on its side.
Oil and fuel tank are liquids that can go where they don’t belong and ruin the inner mechanics in the chainsaw’s body.
Additional Preventative Measures + Short-Term Storage Tips
It is recommended that the chainsaw be stored in a dry, cool place. Oils tend to thicken in cold temperatures, making them less likely to be lost.
In a warm environment, oils expand and form gases that tend to escape. If a lot of liquids are left in the tanks, chainsaw storage will not be without leaks.
Use a chainsaw case or plastic bag under the chainsaw to keep it from getting dirty on the floor or shelf. Here are some more tips for proper chainsaw storage that can prolong its use:
Inspect the bar guide
If an oil leak is detected, check the condition of the guide bar. Carefully check to see if the broken part is leaking. If necessary, replace the broken part with a new one.
Watch the fluid pressure
You must make sure that the chainsaw’s oil system can withstand the oil pressure. Monitor the condition of the rubber seals and the tank plug. To keep the pressure from increasing, keep the tank cap slightly open during oil storage tank.
Check the rubber ring
If oil is still leaking, the rubber ring may be defective. Located between the chain and the oil reservoir, it plays an important role in the overall process.
Sometimes excessive pressure can be applied to it, causing it to leak. In this case, the rubber ring should be replaced.
Keep the chain clean
Keep the chain clean, as this will help keep it working properly. Small chips can clog the chain saw’s moving parts, making it difficult to operate. Also on the care of the chain, see the posts How to Untangle a Chainsaw Chain and What Is the Reason My Chainsaw Chain Is Slipping off.
Why Does Oil Leaks from Your Husqvarna Chainsaw?
There are several reasons why leaks oil. Usually, the same reasons create leaks not only for Husqvarna chainsaws, but for Stihl chainsaws and all other brands as well. Before store a chainsaw, follow these steps:
- Poorly vented oil tank. This can increase the air pressure within the tank and cause oil to seep out of it.
- A missing stud from oil oil storage tank.
- Overfilled oil storage tank.
- Ruptured oil lines.
- Worn gaskets
- Damaged rubber plugs or seals.
- Clogged oil reservoirs
In case of your Husqvarna chainsaw oil leaking, there are a few more signs to look out for, such as oil dripping from the bar, and oil residue on the chainsaw, and excessive smoke.
Is it normal for the chainsaws to leak oil?
It is common for many chainsaws to leak a small amount of oil after use. However, if there is a large puddle or it is clearly not coming from the chain oil, then something is wrong and further investigation is needed.
The amount of oil that leaks from a chainsaw can vary depending on the model and the manufacturer. If you are experiencing excessive oil leaking, it is best to consult the manufacturer’s manual or contact their customer service for more information.
It is considered acceptable if the chainsaw leaks bar oil within 20 ml. But if a chainsaw leaks oil from its reservoir, this is not normal. If you notice that an oil leaking was more than two tablespoons, it’s a sign to reconsider the oil storage tank conditions.
Be careful! It is not permissible to store chainsaws leak oil ports in the tank.
Do electric chainsaws leak bar oil?
Electric chainsaws do not require oil for sufficient lubrication like gas-powered chainsaws do. However, some electric chainsaws may have an oil reservoir that is used to lubricate its bar and chain oil and chainsaw guide bar.
If the oil reservoir is overfilled or if the chainsaw is stored improperly, your chainsaw can leak bar oil. To get rid of oil leakage in an electric chainsaw, use our tips for storing chainsaws with a gasoline engine.
For more watch this video by @Chickanic:
Conclusion: How to Store a Chainsaw without Oil Leaking
Hope that now it will be easy for you to store a chainsaw without oil leaks. Leave your feedback on which methods have helped you the most.
Chapter FAQs
Is it normal for a chainsaw to leak some oil during storage?
Yes, it is normal if a chainsaw leaks oil during storage. To prevent this from happening, you can store your chainsaw with the bar and chain pointing up and empty the oil tank before storing it.
it’s normal for a chainsaw to leak up to 10-20 ml of oil every day during storage. Anything more than that means there’s either an internal problem or issue with the storage.
Is it safe to hang a chainsaw?
Yes, a chainsaw can be stored hanging if the wall hook is strong enough. But can the chainsaw leak bar oil? Yes, and what’s more, hanging it can cause oil leakage from its tank.
Why does my Stihl Chainsaw drain oil when not in use?
If a chainsaw leaks oil when turned off, the chances are that the oil reservoir might be overfilled or poorly ventilated. The pressure buildup within the tank causes some oil to flow out of the tank. Punctures in the oil lines could also cause oil to leak when the chainsaw is not in use.
How do I prepare my chainsaw for winter storage?
Every manufacturer probably has their own tips on how to store a chainsaw in the winter, and you can look them up on their website or in the product instructions, but here are some basic things to take care of:
Clean the air filter, spark plug, and chain brake.
Sharpen and lubricate the chain, and protect the guide bar with a cover.
Apply oil to metallic components and moving parts, silicone spray is recommended but not required.
Drain fuel tank from the machine or add a stabilizer.
Check air filter for damage, replace or clean it.
Winterize the chainsaw in a dry, cool, and well-ventilated area, preferably with a protective case or scabbard.
How long will gas stay in my chainsaw?
There are two nuances to answering this question. The first is whether all the oil leaks will leak out during storage and whether the oil leaks will be usable after storage.
It is considered normal for the oil to leak within 10-20 ml per day of storage. Estimate how many days you plan to store your chainsaw and calculate if you are satisfied with this loss of oil leaks.
Second, it is believed that gasoline begins to break down after only a few months, so it is important to use only fresh gas in your chainsaw. If you are going to store your chainsaw for longer than a couple of months, it is best to empty the gas tank before doing so. This will help prevent the engine from being damaged by the stratified gasoline and keep the chainsaw as good as new.
Is it safe to store my chainsaw vertically?
Yes, but be warned that vertical storage increases the risk of gasoline and oil leaks. Still, chainsaws have a sturdy body so you can store it vertically as long as precautions are taken to ensure the safety of the tool from damage from other items, dust, and fluids in your shed. It should be in an area where it will not get direct sunlight.
