Using Your Chainsaw in the Dirt. Tips from a Professional

If you’re a homeowner who uses his chainsaw under all circumstances, it will see its fair share of dirt. In a lot of situations, this will be hard to avoid. This blog post will provide you with relevant insights into using your chainsaw in the dirt.

Using your chainsaw in the dirt.

Running your chainsaw in the dirt can quickly dull its cutting blades and affect performance. To avoid this from happening, you should cut 90% of the wood with a chainsaw. And use a regular saw to cut the remaining side close to the ground. Clean the wood from dust particles using a broom. Elevate the wooden log using a log jack while cutting. Keep a set of reserve chains that are sharpened.

I will look at the various points in more detail in this blog post, including cutting dirty wood.  I will also answer the question I sometimes get: if you can use a chainsaw to dig a hole or trench.

Is it OK to Use a Chainsaw in Dirt?

It is certainly not recommended to use your chainsaw in the dirt. Not only does dirt exposure dulls the cutter teeth, but sudden exposure to any dirt or debris has been reported to come with an increased risk of kickbacks.

Dirt can mean external outdoor particles such as soil, sand, clay, silt, or organic matter. In most cases, the logs to be sawed are covered with such particles, and it becomes imminent to deal with them. If I’d be straightforward, there’s no way in which this dirt could be beneficial for your chainsaw in any way.

Although there would be no damage on initial contact with dirt, any exposure to dirt during cutting can dull your machine’s cutting chain. I have seen situations in which the guide bar grooves get plugged with sawdust. This is quite critical for operation as the risk for kickbacks gets increased.

What Happens when you Use your Chainsaw in the Dirt?

Dirt contains various hard particles that are harder than the chain’s steel. As a result, it can dull the sharp chain cutters and affect its performance. Also, the dirt can get stuck between the sprocket and chain and may add additional load to the engine.

Depending on the location, dirt may contain various hard organic and inorganic minerals such as silica and quartz. Quartz is said to have a hardness value of 7, which is greater than what most machine tools have, i.e., around 6. Hence, when a harder material presses against a less hard chain, it is bound to reduce its sharpness by a process known as abrasive blasting.

Apart from the scientific evidence, dirt particles are pretty likely to get trapped between the guide bar and chain. This affects the smooth chain operation and adds an unnecessary load on the engine. This increases the lubricant consumption by the guide bar and consumes a large amount of fuel. Hence, this is certainly not ideal for your engine in any respect.

Following are the problems associated with running your chainsaw in the dirt:

● 1. Dull Chain Cutters:

I have seen users who report their chain getting dull almost instantly when running in dirt. You might need to sharpen your chain every five minutes after running it in the dirt. So, it would be best if you didn’t believe in the myths that say it is okay to run your chainsaw in the dirt once in a while.

To check if your chain is dull or not, notice if the chainsaw smokes excessively and produces fine sawdust instead of wooden chips. If yes, then your chain has become dull and needs sharpening.

● 2. Worn Out Chains:

If sand or dust gets trapped between the bar and chain, it can affect the smooth chain operation. If the chain isn’t maintained properly, it is bound to wear out and stretch, ultimately affecting performance. Running a dull chain implies you’re cutting for a longer period and with greater effort. In contrast, with a sharp chain, you’re not trying to push more to get your chain to cut at an optimal speed. This allows you to complete the same amount of work in less time and with less effort.

● 3. Sprocket Damage:

The chainsaw’s sprocket is attached to the engine and provides the power for the chain to rotate around the guide bar. (Image courtesy of Science Channel) The sprocket’s operation is critical in allowing the motor to run and fully transmit its power to the chain itself. If dirt becomes lodged in the sprocket or enters the motor, the chainsaw may lose performance or operate poorly.

● 4. Fuel Consumption:

A worn chain consumes more fuel. With a sharp chain, you can make your gasoline last longer, saving you money and healthier for the environment. The sharper your chain, the less gasoline it will require.

● 5. Overheating:

As I said earlier, trapped dust particles cause an additional load on the engine, damaging its internal components like pistons, cylinders, gasket/O-rings, etc. It increases the overall temperature in the engine, which increases the risk of an engine seizure.

Cutting Dirty Wood

It is clear now that using a chainsaw in the dirt is strictly not recommended if you want your device to keep functioning properly. While cutting through a log, the rotating chain is bound to hit the dirt once it cuts through the log. So, how should you proceed when cutting through dirty wood becomes unavoidable.  Please read the section below to address these points as we help you form your wood cutting strategy in the dirt.

● 1. Leave a fraction of wood uncut:

Cut carefully through the wood with your chainsaw until you’re about 90% of the way through. Roll the log to the uncut side at this point. You can break the remaining portion with an ax or your foot. Axes are more useful for larger pieces of wood, while your foot should be kept for the fast force required for smaller logs.

This kicking approach works well on pieces with a short side, but wear appropriate shoes and safety gear. If rolling the log is impossible, cut all the way down to the dirt, then return and finish the task. As a result, you end up cutting into the dirt and dulling your chain near the end of your session rather than at the start. You may now replace your chain as well as clean and sharpen it.

● 2. Wipe the wood from dust:

If you must flip the log over, make sure to remove the side that was in contact with the soil surface. To clear the debris, a broom should sufficient. This is necessary to avoid any interaction with the tiny sand particles.

● 3. Use a log jack:

A log jack is a tool used to lift wood off the ground so that it does not come into contact with the dirt or surface below. The tool wraps around the surface of the wood and employs a long handle with a stand on the bottom to forcefully lift the log. The log will be supported by the stand, allowing for clean cuts.

Mark the location where you wish to fell a tree if you are attempting to do so. Place a couple of poles perpendicular to the tree’s location on the ground. This way, the tree will not fall into the earth, and you will be able to cut through it safely.

● 4. Change and Sharpen Chains Often

Invest in 3-6 super-sharp chains, depending on your cutting volume and regularity. If your existing chain cuts into the dirt, your spare chains should be ready to replace it. Make it a point to change your chains frequently and sharpen them twice a day. I can give you a handy tip that most users have found quite helpful.

If your chain gets dull due to running in dust, you should keep it as it is. Instead, keep a separate sharp chain at your disposal, which can be used while cutting. You can keep the other blunt chain for cutting dusty wood or roots of trees. This sacrificial chain can be useful when you wouldn’t want to use your sharp chain, such as digging a trench.

Can I dig with a Chainsaw?

It is possible to dig small trenches as deep as a few inches using a chainsaw. But the process is extremely dangerous and may damage your chainsaw.

I would say that although it is possible to dig using a chainsaw. These trenches are 4-5 inches deep and not as wide. You can try routing thin underground wires into those trenches. Before you dig using a chainsaw, make sure that the ground doesn’t have hard rocks. I would recommend wetting the soil with some water as it would soften the ground and wouldn’t overheat the chainsaw.

Expert Opinion:

I would say that digging using chainsaws is possible, but it’s not a smart idea which everyone can try. You should only do so if you have a cheap chainsaw with a sacrificial chain. But remember that digging too much underground would cause rocks to collide with the bar and chain.

Now, the chain isn’t sharp enough to cut through hard rocks. Hence, pushing your saw, in this case, would severely overheat its engine and may cause an engine seizure. This can be extremely dangerous from the safety point of view as contact with rocks during cutting can cause a severe kickback injurious. It may bend your guide bar and make it useless. Also, due to a fast-rotating chain, a chainsaw would be extremely messy for use in dirt.

Ensuring Safety And Efficiency When Using Chainsaws

• Importance of Log Positioning

Firstly, while preparing to cut, always ensure that the log is far enough off the ground. This guards against potential slips of the chainsaw into the dirt. Trust me, from my experience, this alone can make a tremendous difference in safety and efficiency.

– Proper Blade Tension

Equally crucial is avoiding cutting with improper blade tension. Don’t underestimate this aspect as it could lead to the chain slipping off the bar, promptly wearing out the drive sprocket. Proper blade tension is integral to maintaining the longevity of your chainsaw.

– Chain Lube Reservoir

For optimal chainsaw performance, be sure to avoid filling the chain lube reservoir with used motor oil. This element is counterproductive as it accelerates the wear and tear of the bar and chain. In my professional opinion, this is a pitfall that every chainsaw owner should avoid.

– Safe Refuelling Practices

Remember, safety cannot be overstated when handling chainsaws. Always refuel the chainsaw only when it is cool. Doing so while it is hot poses a high risk of starting a fire. Be patient and allow your chainsaw to cool down first.

– Throttle and Brake Engagement

When handling your chainsaw, avoid having the throttle on while the brake is engaged. Doing so can cause damage to the centrifugal clutch. An experienced chainsaw user knows to separate these two actions to ensure the device does not malfunction.

– Cutting with Dull Blades

To maintain the chainsaw’s optimal performance, avoid cutting with a dull blade. This places unnecessary pressure on the chainsaw, negatively affecting its performance. Remember, a clean cut is a sure sign of a well-maintained chainsaw.

– Chainsaw Storage in Winter

Before storing your chainsaw for the winter, always empty the gas tank and run the carburetor dry. Taking this precaution prevents corrosion and the formation of gum in the engine. This step, though it might look minute, contributes significantly towards extending the life span of your chainsaw.

– Use of 2-Cycle Oil

As tempting as it may sound, never substitute 2-cycle oil with car motor oil. Doing so can foul the spark plug and leave carbon deposits in the engine. You must understand that these two oils have different compositions and uses.

• Regularly Checking and cleaning Air Filter

At regular intervals, always ensure to check, clean, or replace the air filter. This action prevents unwanted particles such as dirt and dust from entering the engine.

For those who might need further information or tips on how to clean or replace chainsaw air filters, please visit Oregon State University’s Extension Service page on forestry tools.

Maintaining your chainsaw doesn’t have to be challenging. If these steps are followed meticulously and regularly, you’ll experience fewer disruptions during logging operations.

Not only will the chainsaw’s life span be increased, its performance will be optimized. Every chainsaw owner, new or experienced, could benefit from these tips.

Remember, as the saying goes: “A stitch in time saves nine.” Investing the time and effort in early care and maintenance of your chainsaw can save you from unnecessary expenses and accidents in the future.

So invest wisely and maintain your chainsaw meticulously. This will not only prolong the life of the chainsaw but also guarantee your safety when using this powerful tool.

• Assessing the Severity of Dirt Contact on Your Chainsaw

In terms of chainsaw maintenance, one of the first things you need to do after your chainsaw hits the dirt is to assess the severity of the situation. This is largely dictated by factors like the duration of the contact with the dirt and the dirt’s qualities.

For instance, if your chainsaw was in contact with wet or coarse dirt for an extended period, the potential for damage could be greater than a brief encounter with dry and fine dirt.

Understand that various types of dirt impact your chainsaw differently. Wet mud, for instance, can infiltrate tight areas and initiate rust, while sandy or gritty dirt can scratch and deteriorate mechanical components.

• Inspecting the Chain for Damage

After the initial assessment, the first order of maintenance should be inspecting the chain itself. Damage caused by rocks and dirt can manifest in several ways, including broken teeth or cracked links on the chain.

These types of damage can decrease the efficiency of your chainsaw and potentially compromise its safety.

• Looking for Chain Cracks

Chain cracks can pose a safety risk as they can compromise chain integrity. Therefore, inspect the chain for cracks carefully. Pay particular attention to the chain’s drive links, cutters, and tie straps, as these areas are most vulnerable to cracking.

• Sharpen Chainsaw for Optimal Performance

Once you’ve checked for damages, it’s vital to sharpen the chainsaw before using it again. Whether your saw hit the dirt or not, regular sharpening ensures optimal cutting performance.

Keeping the cutting teeth sharp reduces the risk of kickback and facilitates efficient, smooth cutting. For more details on sharpening your chainsaw, you can visit this link from Iowa State University.

• Techniques to Prevent Ground Contact

Using innovative methods during cutting operations can help prevent chainsaw contact with the ground – a common cause of hitting dirt.

One of these techniques includes rolling the log, cutting mostly through it, and rolling it again to continue the cut. This minimizes the chance the chainsaw will touch the ground and consequently encounter dirt.

• Use of Felling Dogs or Log Jack

Utilizing felling dogs or a log jack can be beneficial. These tools elevate logs off the ground, preventing saw pinching and reducing the likelihood of dirt contact. They also guarantee a safer and easier cutting operation by offering stability and control.

• Cutting on Snow Benefits

In scenarios where there is snow present, cutting operations become less risky for your chainsaw. As the snow acts as a buffer between the chainsaw and the ground, it reduces the risk of damage caused by dirt contact. This allows for more latitude in cutting techniques.

• Chainsaw Dirt Contact Is a Common Occurrence

Hitting the dirt with a chainsaw is a routine occurrence for many operators. It’s essential not to fret over this, as any damage incurred can be repaired by following the steps outlined in this article.

However, preventive measures, as discussed in the previous sections, should always be taken to limit any potential damage.

• Continuous Learning and Improvement in Chainsaw Use

Evolution in chainsaw use is a continual journey. This is no different than any other skillset where constant learning and improvement are recommended.

Stay up-to-date with the latest safety and operating techniques to ensure you get the most out of your chainsaw while minimizing risks and potential damages.

By following these recommendations and guidelines, keeping your chainsaw in prime working condition – even after hitting dirt – will become a routine part of your maintenance regimen.

Above all, remember safety comes first. Always use personal protective equipment, and ensure that others stay at a safe distance when operating a chainsaw.

Versatility of Chainsaws

Chainsaws are amazing tools, highly versatile, and useful in a variety of environments. They are fundamental to many cutting projects; from pruning trees to splitting firewood, a chainsaw is the go-to tool.

• Risks of Using Chainsaw in Dirt

However, using a chainsaw in the dirt can be a huge threat to its performance and durability. This is one activity that can reduce your chainsaw’s lifespan in a heartbeat. Unfortunately, this isn’t a widely known fact among many people.

• Damages Involved

Why is this so? First, the dirt can dull the chain fast, regardless of the chainsaw model, type, or age. This can severely affect the performance of your chainsaw, diminishing its cutting efficiency.

Secondly, the dirt, which usually has abrasive materials like sand and small rock particles, swiftly wears out the chains. Lastly, dirt can enter the motor, thereby causing serious damage.

• Risks from Large Cuts

There’s also a risk involved when cutting large pieces of material. In such a situation, the force applied to the wood can lead to the chainsaw accidentally hitting the ground. This can potentially damage the rotating mechanisms far beyond what is immediately visible.

• Threat of Floating Debris

What many fail to realize is that even operating a chainsaw close to the dirt without touching it can cause damage. The chainsaw, due to its operational impact, may kick up debris, causing it to tamper with its components.

• Propping the Wood

To avoid chainsaw contact with the ground, it is advisable to prop the wood up on supports. This is an efficient way to keep your chainsaw operational for longer periods.

• The Primary Problems

There are primary problems associated with using a chainsaw in the dirt. They include a dull blade, worn or stuck chains, and motor and sprocket damage. All of these can reduce the longevity and efficiency of your chainsaw.

• Dirt Effect

Tiny particles in the dirt, like sand and small rocks, can scratch and get lodged in the moving parts of the chainsaw. This leads to frequent blade sharpening, inefficient chain movement, and motor underperformance, all of which are signs of an unhealthy chainsaw.

• Preventive Measures

To prevent dirt-related damage when cutting near or on the ground, certain measures can be employed. One effective way is to cut 90% of the wood with the chainsaw and then use an axe or your foot to break the remaining portion.

Similarly, you can also wipe the wood clean if you need to flip it over or use a broom to sweep away the dirt and debris surrounding your working area.

For a safer and cleaner cut, a log jack can also be used. This tool lifts the wood off the ground, providing an elevated area for cleaner, dirt-free cuts.

• Importance of Safety

Regardless of the environment, safety should be your utmost concern while operating a chainsaw. This involves wearing protective garments like supportive shoes, long pants, gloves, a helmet with eye protection, and ear protection to safeguard yourself from any potential hazards.

• Longevity and Performance

By keeping your chainsaw away from dirt, you not only extend its lifespan but also save yourself from expensive repairs. It is a small action with long-term benefits that every chainsaw owner should be aware of.

• Conclusion

In conclusion, the secret to the optimal performance and durability of your chainsaw lies in following safe operating practices, which include keeping it away from dirt. By paying attention to these details, you’ll get the best out of your chainsaw, rendering it a reliable companion for all your cutting needs.

Envisioning a Hybrid Gardening Tool

• Bridging the Gap: Chainsaw and Rototiller Capabilities

As a seasoned gardener, I often encounter deep-rooted challenges quite literally. Buried beneath the ground are tough roots that refuse to yield to conventional gardening tools.

It got me thinking, what if there were a tool that can slice through roots like a chainsaw while also navigating the soil like a rototiller?

A chainsaw’s robust cutting capability can be a great asset when dealing with stubborn roots. Meanwhile, the rototiller’s ease of navigating through soil makes it a reliable partner in gardening.

Combining these two characteristics into a single tool would make it a versatile piece of equipment capable of effortlessly tackling root-related gardening obstacles.

However, it’s important to note that chainsaws aren’t originally designed for such tasks. While they are excellent for dealing with branches and trunks, their design isn’t optimized for digging.

• Potential Benefits for Gardeners

Such a revolutionary tool could bring significant parking benefits for both casual and professional gardeners.

It would make swift work of stubborn roots, eliminating the need for bending, hacking, or digging. This dramatically reduces physical strain and injury risks, making gardening a more straightforward process.

Not only would it save time, but it could potentially lead to better gardening outcomes, as it permits a more efficient way to prepare the soil. A seamless blend of cutting and digging could improve planting conditions, leading to healthier plants and more abundant harvests.

• Safety Concerns and Responsible Usage

In as much as this idea piques curiosity and opens new doors for experimentation, there’s an undeniable aspect of danger associated with the novel use of chainsaw-like machinery for digging. Chainsaws, by their nature, are risky equipment. They are designed for professional use with robust safety protocols.

Should this hybrid tool come to life, users must prioritize safety precautions. Eye and hand protection, sturdy footwear, and safe operational techniques should be non-negotiable. Users must be trained to handle the tool responsibly, recognize its potential risks, and adhere strictly to safety guidelines.

Remember, every gardener’s first tool is caution. The appropriate training and consistent practice of safe usage will help ensure you benefit from your tools and maintain your health in the process.

• Appropriate Training and Guidelines

Speaking of training, it would be beneficial for users to familiarize themselves with the basic use and maintenance of chainsaws and rototillers.

Websites like the Oregon State University’s Extension Service (https://extension.oregonstate.edu/) provide comprehensive resources to help you safely operate and maintain such machinery.

Moreover, equipment manufacturers often provide detailed guides that explain the safe handling and operation of their tools. Gathering knowledge from credible sources like these and applying it responsibly is an essential step in securing your safety while wielding power tools.

• Diverting from Traditional Tools

While traditional chainsaws and rototillers serve their individual purposes well, the vision of a hybrid tool that successfully merges their respective capabilities is an attractive prospect.

In the diminishing landscape of manual labor, such inventive tools can potentially revolutionize gardening practices by streamlining processes and reducing physical effort. However, the inherent risks associated with chainsaws, and by extension, such a hybrid tool, need to be accounted for and diligently mitigated.

It might seem like an adventurous and somewhat daunting venture, but this tool could be the revolutionary breakthrough that avid gardeners have been anticipating.

Let’s continue to embrace innovation while maintaining a strong focus on safety and responsible usage, promoting a more productive and enjoyable gardening experience.

The Perils of Using Chainsaws for Cutting Roots

As an arboreal enthusiast with years of experience, one of the big quandaries I’ve seen is the heavy debate over chainsaws and their efficacy for root-cutting. The fact is, chainsaw blades, also known as saw chains, dull extraordinarily quickly when they come into contact with dirt.

Consequently, if you use a chainsaw to cut roots, the blade could render them unusable within seconds, whether you’re sawing through a mighty oak’s bole or a humble hedge.

• The Reciprocating Saw Alternative

Ideally, if you decide to venture into root cutting, maneuver away from engaging a chainsaw. Instead, adopt the use of a reciprocating saw armed with a pruning blade.

The pruning blade withstands contact with dirt for extended periods, significantly surpassing a chainsaw’s resilience. Additionally, it introduces an element of safety into the task. Operating a chainsaw while dealing with roots could steeply increase the risk of accidents and injuries.

• Opt for Tungsten Carbide Tipped Cutters

Another impressive substitute for chainsaws in cutting roots is tools fitted with tungsten carbide-tipped cutters.

These resist blunting exceptionally well, bearing up with prolonged contact with unconventional cutting surfaces like roots. My diversified experience within this field has proven that these cutters are a phenomenal choice for root cutting.

• Stump Grinder: A Cost-effective Solution

Hiring a small stump grinder also empowers you with a cost-effective method of grappling with roots and stumps. Handle roots without having to frequently sharpen or replace chainsaw blades, which can quickly spiral into a costly endeavor. Most tool rental companies offer stump grinders, making it a convenient option as well.

• Differing Opinions on Chainsaw Use

While some believe you can use chainsaws to prune roots, caution is imperative due to the blade’s rapid deterioration when it engages with dirt. This faction assumes the frequent necessity of sharp blades is worth the perceived benefits of a chainsaw.

However, an alternative school of thought vehemently opposes using chainsaws for root cutting, citing danger and inefficiency. They recommend opting for safer and more efficient alternatives or hiring professionals.

• Chainsaws and Their Original Design

A crucial thing to note is chainsaws were never designed for cutting roots or surfacing with dirt. Their niches are more directed at lumber purposes, such as felling trees and acquainting with clean timber.

By using a chainsaw to gnaw through roots, you push the tool beyond its design parameters, which could result in damage or malfunction.

• Prioritize Safety Over Efficiency

The key consideration when choosing your tool should be safety. The chainsaw’s rapid dulling, combined with the tool’s potent power and erratic behavior when cutting roots, might lead to unforeseen accidents.

As an experienced arboreal toolmaster, I’d advise hand tools or professional services as reliable alternatives.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) provides an informative guide on chainsaw safety, which you can find here.

In conclusion, while it seems tempting to utilize chainsaws for root cutting due to their accessibility, the risks and costs outweigh the possible gains. It is better to opt for safer and more cost-efficient methods.

Always remember maintaining safety and efficiency in every DIY endeavor is not a choice but a primal necessity.