When you have a chainsaw, you expect it to perform properly each time, but if there’s a problem with it, it may cut crooked, cut in a curve, not cut certain materials, or just not turn on. There are many things that can cause problems with a chainsaw, and it can take some time and trial and error to figure out the reason your chainsaw is not working as it should.
Chainsaw Not Cutting
If your chainsaw is not cutting, there can be several reasons. The chain can be dull, you use an incorrect chain tension, there is a problem with the adjustment screw, the clutch does not work correctly, or the emergency switch is faulty.

In this blog post, I will explain in more detail why a chainsaw is not cutting and what you can do about it. I will also show the reasons why a chainsaw chain can get dull quickly and why a chainsaw can cut in a curve.
Contents
Why Is My Chainsaw Not Cutting?
When a chainsaw stops cutting, it’s usually a problem with the chain or the tension. Many things can cause a chainsaw to stop cutting as it should, and you might need to troubleshoot the chainsaw to determine the real problem so you can make the proper repairs and get the chainsaw cutting properly.
● Dull Chain
One of the most common reasons a chainsaw won’t cut is that the chain is dull. The more you use a chainsaw, the more the chain will become dull. If you use it to cut different things, it could become dull based on the thickness and angles that you cut. You can easily sharpen the chain if needed.
I recommend you remove it from the chainsaw before you sharpen it. If you are not comfortable sharpening the chain yourself, you can take it to a professional to do it for you. If you do decide to sharpen it yourself, there are several methods, from a file to an electric sharpener. If the chain is damaged, I recommend replacing it.
● Incorrect Chain Tension
To check the chain tension, pull the chain in the middle of the bottom of the bar down. It should be such that one or two drive links can be pulled out of the guide bar. And when you release them, they should snap back to the correct position.
If this is not the case, you should set the correct chain tension with the tension screw. The tension must be correct for the chainsaw to make the proper contact with the wood to cut it. While you may set it correctly now, it could change over time when using the chainsaw.
Every time the chainsaw is jolted or makes contact with the wood, it could cause the tension to adjust slightly on its own. Before you know it, the tension is incorrect, and the chainsaw is no longer cutting. You can fix this issue by simply adjusting the tension as needed.
● Adjustment Screw
If the adjustment screw is loose or broken, the chainsaw will not be able to maintain the proper tension and could stop cutting wood. The screw can break if you drop the chainsaw if it is not stored, or if the chainsaw hits something, it can’t cut and has a sudden jolt.
If the screw is completely broken, the chain may fall off the chainsaw, or it may just hang loose and not spin or cut. You can find replacement screws at most home improvement stores or any shops and stores that sell chainsaws and parts.
It’s easy to replace the screw yourself, but if you aren’t sure how to do it or aren’t confident in your ability to do it correctly, you can have it replaced by a chainsaw repair company.
● Bad Chain Bar
The chain slides across the chain bar, and if it can’t do so easily, it may not be able to cut wood. If the chain bar is bent or damaged, it could prevent the chain from sliding across it properly. A chain bar can be bent or broken if the chainsaw is dropped, or other tools are stacked on top of it.
It can also bend with improper use or improper storage. Even the slightest bend can cause issues and make it impossible for the chainsaw to work the way it should. You can try to straighten the chainsaw bar, but ensure it works correctly before continuing with your job.
● Clutch
The clutch allows the chain to rotate. When the pads around the clutch wear down, it can prevent the chainsaw from cutting. This could also cause the chainsaw to fail to start. You can buy replacement clutch pads and repair the assembly yourself or buy a complete clutch replacement.
If these repairs are too difficult for you, you can have someone else make the repairs or replace the clutch or clutch pads for you.
● Emergency Switch
The emergency switch helps ensure you don’t accidentally start the chainsaw or leave it running when it’s not in a safe position or when you aren’t operating it. While it comes in handy for safety reasons, it can become worn down or damaged and may kick in when you least expect it.
This can cause the chainsaw not to start and could even prevent it from running while you are trying to cut the wood. You will need to replace the switch and ensure it is installed properly, so it will not cause any other problems.
Why Does My Chainsaw Chain Dull So Quickly?
Chainsaws dull quickly when things get caught in the teeth of the chain and grind down the edges. Few things are as frustrating as putting a new chain on your chainsaw or sharpening it, and to find out it almost instantly becomes dull again. There are many things that can cause a chainsaw blade to go dull quickly.
Consider these reasons when trying to fix the issue:
● Hitting The Ground
If you are hitting the ground often when you are using your chainsaw, it could be causing the chain to become dull fast. When the chain hits the ground, it can actually knock off tiny pieces of the chain teeth and cause it to become dull. Hitting the ground also means grass, mud, dust, and dirt could be on the teeth and wear them down faster.
● Tree Is Dirty
If you are cutting down or cutting up a dirty tree, it will cause your chain to be dull quickly. The dirt and mud on the tree will grind down the fine edges of the chain and dull them. It can also make it more difficult to cut the tree, which means you will have to use your chainsaw more, which will dull the blades too.
● Something Inside
If there is something inside the wood or tree you are trying to cut down, it could catch on the chair or dull it down. As the chain moves against the inside object, it will wear down the edges of the blades and make them dull.
It can be a much harder part in the wood or something metal or other rigid material. But I have to say that you would notice when you hit something from metal.
Why Does Chainsaw Cut In A Curve?
The most common reason a chainsaw cuts at a curve is a problem with the chain. Other common reasons are uneven sharpness, the top plate off-balance, incorrect tension, a bent bar, or a damaged chain.
If your chainsaw is not cutting straight, it can be frustrating and dangerous. Sometimes chainsaws can cut in a curve, and it can be hard to determine the reasons. If your chainsaw is cutting in a curve, be sure to consider one of these likely reasons for the problem.
● Uneven Sharpness
If your chain is sharper on one side or if certain parts of the chain are sharp and others are not, it could pull the chainsaw towards the dull side. This will allow it to cut smoothly on one side and may prevent it from cutting properly on the other side. Sharpening or replacing the chain will allow it to cut more evenly.
● Top Plate Is Off Balance
If the top plate is off-balance, it will cause the teeth of the saw to take off different sized pieces of wood and could cause it to pull to one side or the other. It can sometimes be hard to tell if the top plate is off balance or if there is a problem with the bar, and you may have to inspect both parts to see which one is really causing the issue.
● Incorrect Tension
If the tension is not correct on the chainsaw chain, it will pull to one side or the other. This can cause it to cut crooked. It can also affect the way the chain pulls on the chainsaw and how sharp the blades stay. If some of the blades become dull from incorrect tension, it could cause it to cut crooked as well.
To check the chain tension, pull the chain in the middle of the bottom of the bar down. You should be able to pull one or two drive links out of the guide bar. And when you release them, they should snap back to the correct position. If that is not the case, set the tension correctly.
● Bar Is Bent
If the bar is bent, it will not allow the chain to move as it should and could pull it from one side to another. The bar can be worn out over time, or it may become bent if it is dropped or something is dropped on it. You can replace the bar and readjust it to help the chainsaw cut straighter.
● Chain Is Damaged
The chain can become damaged over time, and when this happens, it can cut unevenly. It will cause the chainsaw to pull to the side that is sharper or that has the most teeth. Replacing the chain will allow it to straighten and cut correctly.
Can using the chainsaw in the rain affect its cutting ability?
Using a chainsaw in the rain can affect its cutting ability by dulling the blade faster and causing slippage. Make sure to properly dry and maintain your chainsaw after use.
I will be more mindful of how I store my chainsaw to prevent damage in the future.
Thanks for sharing, Mabel! Proper storage is key to maintaining the performance of your chainsaw. It’s great to see you taking proactive steps to prevent damage in the future.
Why does my chainsaw keep cutting in a curve?
It sounds like your chainsaw chain may be dull or the tension could be off. Try sharpening the chain and adjusting the tension to see if that helps with the curve cutting issue.
Thanks for the informative article!
Thank you, Flenn! I’m glad you found the article informative. Let me know if you have any other questions about your chainsaw!
How can I tell if the clutch in my chainsaw needs to be replaced?
Hi Harry, if your chainsaw is not cutting properly, it could be due to a dull chain, incorrect chain tension, a problem with the adjustment screw, clutch issues, or a faulty emergency switch. Check these factors to determine if your clutch needs replacing.
I will make sure to check the tension on my chainsaw chain more frequently now.
Thanks for the comment, Dean! Checking the tension on your chainsaw chain more frequently is a great idea to ensure it’s cutting properly. Happy sawing!
I had no idea that dirt on a tree could dull the chainsaw blades so quickly.
Thanks for pointing out the dirt on trees as a reason for dull chainsaw blades. It’s a common issue that many overlook, but it can definitely affect the cutting performance.
Is it okay to use my chainsaw on wet wood?
Yes, it is okay to use a chainsaw on wet wood, but be aware that it can cause the chain to dull quicker due to the moisture. Stay safe!
How often should I be sharpening my chainsaw chain?
It is recommended to sharpen your chainsaw chain every time you refill the gas tank to maintain optimal performance and prevent any issues with cutting.
This article has been really helpful in troubleshooting my chainsaw issues.
Thank you for your feedback, Edwin! I’m glad the article helped you troubleshoot your chainsaw issues. If you have any more questions, feel free to reach out. Happy cutting!
I didn’t know hitting the ground could dull the chain so quickly.
Hitting the ground can definitely cause your chain to dull quickly. Be mindful of where your chainsaw makes contact to prevent premature wear.
I never thought about how something inside the wood could affect the chainsaw chain.
Thanks for your comment, Aaron. It’s often overlooked, but something inside the wood can definitely affect the chainsaw chain. I’m glad you found the information helpful!
Should I be periodically checking the tension of my chainsaw chain?
Yes, you should periodically check the tension of your chainsaw chain to ensure it cuts properly. Improper tension can cause issues with cutting straight and efficiently.
This article has motivated me to learn how to sharpen my chainsaw chain properly.
Thank you, Dylan! I’m glad the article inspired you to sharpen your chainsaw chain properly. Happy cutting!
I appreciate the detailed explanations provided in this article.
Thank you for your kind words, Johnny! I’m glad you found the explanations helpful in troubleshooting chainsaw issues. Let me know if you have any other questions or need further assistance.
I will definitely be more careful not to hit the ground with my chainsaw from now on.
Thanks for sharing your experience, Armando! It’s great that you’re taking precautions with your chainsaw now. Safety is key when handling power tools. Stay safe!
What is the best way to store a chainsaw to prevent damage?
To prevent damage to your chainsaw, store it in a dry, cool place, and use a chain cover to protect the chain. Regular maintenance is key to keeping your chainsaw in top condition.
I never realized how many factors could affect a chainsaw’s cutting ability.
Thank you for your comment, Warren! There are indeed many factors that can affect a chainsaw’s cutting ability. I hope the information provided in the blog post helps you troubleshoot any issues you may encounter.
What should I do if my chainsaw chain keeps falling off?
Hi William, make sure to check the chain tension and the adjustment screw on your chainsaw. It might be causing the chain to fall off. Good luck troubleshooting!
Are there any specific maintenance tips to prevent my chainsaw chain from dulling quickly?
Hi Pedro, to prevent your chainsaw chain from dulling quickly, make sure to sharpen it regularly, check the chain tension, and avoid hitting the ground or cutting dirty trees. Proper maintenance will help extend the life of your chainsaw chain.