Oregon 100457 16-Inch Chainsaw Bar and 91VG Chain Combination User Manual

1. Introduction

This manual provides essential information for the safe and effective use, installation, and maintenance of your Oregon 100457 16-inch guide bar and 91VG chainsaw chain combination. This product is designed for homeowners and occasional users, offering a low-vibration, low-kickback saw chain with Chamfer Chisel cutters for outstanding performance. It is compatible with various McCulloch and Craftsman chainsaw models equipped with a 16-inch bar, 3/8-inch low profile, .050-inch gauge saw chain, and 54 drive links.

2. Safety Information

Always prioritize safety when working with chainsaw components. Failure to follow safety instructions can result in serious injury or death.

• Read Your Chainsaw Manual: Always refer to your chainsaw's original instruction manual for specific safety guidelines, installation procedures, and operational instructions.
• Wear Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): Always wear appropriate safety gear, including a helmet with face shield, hearing protection, safety glasses, heavy-duty gloves, and chainsaw protective chaps or pants.
• Inspect Components: Before each use, inspect the guide bar and chain for any damage, wear, or dullness. Replace damaged components immediately.
• Proper Installation: Ensure the guide bar and chain are correctly installed and tensioned according to the instructions provided in this manual and your chainsaw's manual. An improperly installed chain can derail and cause injury.
• Lubrication: Ensure the chainsaw's automatic oiling system is functioning correctly and the oil reservoir is filled with appropriate bar and chain oil. Proper lubrication is crucial for safe operation and component longevity.
• Maintain Sharpness: A dull chain can increase kickback risk and require more effort to cut, leading to fatigue. Keep the chain sharp.

3. Setup and Installation

Follow these steps to install the Oregon 100457 guide bar and 91VG chain on your compatible chainsaw. Always ensure the chainsaw is turned off and the spark plug cap is disconnected before beginning any installation or maintenance.

3.1. Preparing Your Chainsaw

1. Place the chainsaw on a stable, flat surface.
2. Ensure the engine is off and the spark plug cap is removed to prevent accidental starting.
3. Engage the chain brake.
4. Remove the clutch cover/side plate by unscrewing the retaining nuts.
5. Remove the old guide bar and chain, if present. Clean any sawdust or debris from the clutch area and bar mounting studs.

3.2. Installing the Guide Bar and Chain

1. Slide the new Oregon 100457 guide bar onto the mounting studs. Ensure the bar's oil holes align with the chainsaw's oil port.
2. Carefully uncoil the 91VG saw chain. Note the cutting direction of the teeth; they should face forward, away from the chainsaw body, on the top side of the bar.
3. Place the chain around the drive sprocket (located behind the clutch).
4. Fit the drive links of the chain into the groove of the guide bar. Work your way around the bar, ensuring the chain is seated correctly.
5. Once the chain is fully seated, gently pull the guide bar forward to take up initial slack.

Image: Oregon 16-inch Bar and Chain Combination. This image shows the guide bar and chain as a complete unit, ready for installation.

3.3. Chain Tensioning

Correct chain tension is critical for safe operation and optimal cutting performance. Too loose, and the chain can derail; too tight, and it can cause excessive wear and damage.

1. Replace the clutch cover/side plate, but do not fully tighten the retaining nuts yet. Leave them finger-tight.
2. Locate the chain tensioning screw (its position varies by chainsaw model; refer to your chainsaw manual).
3. Adjust the tensioning screw to tighten the chain. The chain is properly tensioned when the drive links cannot be pulled out of the bar groove at the bottom, but the chain can still be pulled freely around the guide bar by hand. There should be no sag on the underside of the bar.
4. Once the tension is correct, hold the tip of the guide bar up and fully tighten the clutch cover retaining nuts.
5. Re-check the chain tension after tightening the nuts, as it can change slightly. Adjust if necessary.

4. Operating Guidelines

This Oregon bar and chain combination is designed for efficient cutting. Always operate your chainsaw according to the manufacturer's instructions and safety guidelines.

• Pre-Operation Check: Before each use, verify chain tension, check for proper lubrication (ensure oil is flowing to the bar and chain), and inspect all components for damage.
• Starting the Chainsaw: Follow your chainsaw's specific starting procedure.
• Cutting Technique: Allow the chain to do the work. Do not force the saw. The low-vibration, low-kickback design of the 91VG chain helps provide a smoother cutting experience.
• Lubri-Tec System: The built-in Lubri-Tec automatic oiling system on the bar extends chain life by delivering oil to critical parts. Regularly check that the system is functioning and the oil reservoir is adequately filled.

5. Maintenance

Regular maintenance ensures the longevity and safe operation of your Oregon bar and chain.

5.1. Chain Sharpening

The 91VG chain features Chamfer Chisel cutters that are durable and relatively easy to maintain. Sharpen the chain regularly to maintain cutting efficiency and reduce kickback risk. Use a round file of the correct diameter (typically 5/32 inch for 3/8-inch low profile chains) and a flat file for depth gauges. Refer to your chainsaw manual or an Oregon chain sharpening guide for detailed instructions.

5.2. Guide Bar Maintenance

• Clean the Bar Groove: Regularly clean the guide bar groove to remove sawdust and debris that can impede chain movement and oil flow.
• Check for Burrs: Inspect the bar rails for burrs, especially on the top edge. File them smooth with a flat file to prevent chain binding.
• Flip the Bar: To promote even wear, flip the guide bar periodically (e.g., every time you sharpen the chain).
• Sprocket Nose: If your bar has a sprocket nose, ensure it spins freely and is adequately lubricated (some require greasing).

5.3. Lubrication

Always use high-quality bar and chain oil. The Lubri-Tec system requires consistent oil supply to function effectively. Check the oil level frequently during operation.

6. Troubleshooting

Here are some common issues and their potential solutions:

7. Specifications

The Oregon 100457 bar and 91VG chain combination features the following specifications:

• Model Number: 100457
• Bar Length: 16 inches
• Chain Pitch: 3/8 inch Low Profile
• Chain Gauge: .050 inch
• Drive Links: 54
• Bar Mount: A318
• Material: High Speed Steel
• Color: Gray
• Item Weight: 1 Pound
• Compatible Saw Sizes: Up to 42 cc

Image: Bar Length. Indicates the length of the guide bar.

Image: Chain Gauge. Shows the thickness of the drive links.

Image: Chain Pitch. Illustrates the distance between three consecutive rivets divided by two.

Image: Drive Links. Displays the number of drive links on the chain.

8. Warranty and Support

Oregon products are manufactured to high standards and are backed by a manufacturer's warranty. For specific warranty details, claims, or technical support, please refer to the official Oregon website or contact Oregon customer service directly. Keep your purchase receipt as proof of purchase.

Oregon Tool, Inc.
Website: www.oregonproducts.com
(Please refer to the website for the most current contact information and warranty policies.)