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How to Winterize a Chainsaw

Originally posted on Men's Journal | By Max Winters | Last updated Nov 12, 2024 7:00 AM ET

After the fall cleanup, it’s time to prepare your chainsaw for the winter months. Sure, you might need to use it winter long, but many people don't. In either case, taking care of your chainsaw before winter can prevent springtime surprises. Routine maintenance also keeps your outdoor power equipment ready in case it's needed. It's important to show a little care to the tool that worked so hard through fall.

“Properly winterizing your chainsaw is essential to prevent damage from cold weather and long-term storage," said Dr. Raymond Burns III, Director of Research and Development for Lucas Oil. "Cold temperatures can cause engine seals to dry out, fuel systems to gum up, and moisture to form, leading to corrosion in key components. Taking the proper precautionary steps and including the right fuel stabilizers, oil treatments, and rust inhibitors can help maintain optimal performance and extend the lifespan of your chainsaw, curbing any costly repair or maintenance fees you may face when you’re back to work in the spring.”

How to Winterize Your Chainsaw

Empty the Fuel Tank: Stale fuel can gum up, especially in cold conditions. Run the gas engine dry (or drain fuel tank) to keep a dirty carburetor from clogging up.
Add Fuel Stabilizer (if Needed): Mix the fuel stabilizer into your outdoor tool gas tanks to prevent fuel breakdown.
Clean the Air Filter: A clogged air filter puts extra strain on the engine. Remove the air filter, clean it with warm, soapy water, dry completely, and reinstall it. You can also swap it out with a new one.
Sharpen and Lubricate the Chain: Keep a chain sharp by filing each tooth. Lubricate the chain to prevent rust and unnecessary wear. Store with a chain cover or a chain guard.
Check and Add Bar Oil: Add fresh bar oil to the chain oil reservoir and distribute it along the chain bar to help keep things moving smoothly to prevent damage over long storage periods.
Store in a Dry, Cool Place: Damp or excessively cold areas can lead to rust. Store your outdoor tools in a dry location, ideally off the ground. Make sure the area is well ventilated in case of fuel vapors.
Remove the Spark Plug (Optional): Simply remove the spark plug and store it in a clean place in the even that the chainsaw is being stored for an extended period. This step prevents accidental startups.

Ongoing Winter Maintenance Requirements

If you need your chainsaw for winter tasks like chopping firewood or clearing fallen branches, you’ll want to “unwinterize” it briefly for each use.

Check Fuel Levels: Add fresh, stabilized fuel before each use to avoid gum deposits in cold conditions.
Inspect Chain Tension and Sharpness: Cold temperatures can cause metal to contract, so check that the chain is at the right tension and keep it sharp for best performance.
Warm Up the Engine: Start the saw and run the engine at idle for a minute to warm up. This helps prevent any sudden stalls from the cold.
Lubricate Regularly: Winter air is dry, so apply bar oil more frequently than usual to prevent dryness or rust.
After Each Use: Let the engine cool, wipe the saw clean, remove any debris, conduct regular maintenance and store it back in a dry place until the next time you need it.