1. Introduction
This manual provides essential information for the proper installation, operation, and maintenance of your TrueCut replacement chainsaw chain. This chain is specifically designed to fit Shindaiwa chainsaw models 346, 350, 352, 355, 357, 360, and 90. Adhering to these instructions will help ensure safe and efficient use of your chainsaw.
Figure 1: TrueCut Chainsaw Chain. This image displays the TrueCut replacement chainsaw chain, coiled. The individual links feature a dual raker and semi-chisel design, engineered for efficient cutting.
2. Safety Information
Always prioritize safety when working with chainsaws. Failure to follow safety guidelines can result in serious injury or death. This chain is a cutting tool and must be handled with extreme care.
- Read Your Chainsaw Manual: Always refer to your chainsaw's original instruction manual for specific safety procedures, maintenance, and operation guidelines.
- Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): Always wear appropriate PPE, including a helmet with face shield, hearing protection, safety glasses, heavy-duty gloves, chainsaw protective trousers or chaps, and steel-toed boots.
- Inspect Before Use: Before each use, inspect the chain for damage, dullness, or loose rivets. Never use a damaged chain.
- Proper Tension: Ensure the chain is correctly tensioned according to your chainsaw manufacturer's specifications. An improperly tensioned chain can derail or break.
- Sharpness: A sharp chain cuts efficiently and reduces the risk of kickback. Keep the chain properly sharpened.
- Lubrication: Ensure the chainsaw's oiling system is functioning correctly and the chain is adequately lubricated during operation.
- Kickback Awareness: Understand the risks of kickback and how to avoid it. Always maintain a firm grip on the chainsaw with both hands.
3. Installation Instructions
Follow these steps to safely install the TrueCut replacement chainsaw chain on your Shindaiwa chainsaw. Always ensure the chainsaw is turned off and the spark plug cap is disconnected before beginning any installation or maintenance.
- Prepare the Chainsaw: Ensure the chainsaw engine is off and cool. Disconnect the spark plug wire to prevent accidental starting. Engage the chain brake.
- Remove the Bar Cover: Loosen and remove the two nuts that secure the bar cover (clutch cover) to the chainsaw body. Carefully remove the bar cover.
- Remove Old Chain and Bar: If an old chain is present, carefully remove it from the guide bar and drive sprocket. Then, remove the guide bar from the chainsaw studs.
- Clean Components: Clean any sawdust, debris, or old oil from the guide bar groove, the drive sprocket, and the bar mounting area. This ensures proper fit and function of the new chain.
- Install New Chain on Bar: Place the new TrueCut chain into the groove of the guide bar, ensuring the cutting edges (cutters) are facing in the correct direction for cutting (usually forward on the top of the bar).
- Position Bar and Chain: Fit the guide bar onto the chainsaw studs, ensuring the chain is properly seated around the drive sprocket.
- Reinstall Bar Cover: Place the bar cover back onto the chainsaw, aligning it with the studs. Hand-tighten the nuts, but do not fully tighten them yet.
- Adjust Chain Tension: Locate the chain tensioning screw (typically on the side of the chainsaw or on the bar cover). Adjust the screw to achieve proper chain tension. The chain should be snug against the bottom of the guide bar, but you should still be able to pull it freely by hand. There should be no sag on the underside of the bar. Refer to your chainsaw's manual for precise tensioning instructions.
- Final Tightening: Once the chain tension is correct, fully tighten the bar cover nuts securely.
- Check Lubrication: Ensure the chain oil reservoir is full and the oiler is functioning by briefly running the chainsaw (with spark plug reconnected) and observing oil spray from the tip of the bar.
4. Operating with Your New Chain
After installing your new TrueCut chain, it is important to operate your chainsaw safely and effectively. Always follow the operating instructions provided in your chainsaw's original manual.
- Initial Run-in: Run the chainsaw for a few minutes at moderate speed to allow the chain to seat properly. Recheck chain tension after this initial run, as new chains can stretch slightly.
- Maintain Proper Tension: Regularly check and adjust chain tension during operation, especially during the first few hours of use.
- Adequate Lubrication: Ensure the chain is continuously lubricated by the chainsaw's automatic oiler. Insufficient lubrication will cause premature wear to both the chain and guide bar.
- Cutting Technique: Use proper cutting techniques to avoid kickback and ensure efficient cutting. Do not force the chain; let the chain do the work.
5. Maintenance
Regular maintenance extends the life of your TrueCut chainsaw chain and ensures optimal performance and safety.
- Sharpening: Keep the chain cutters sharp. A dull chain will not cut efficiently, increases fuel consumption, and can lead to kickback. Use appropriate sharpening tools and follow the correct angles for semi-chisel chains.
- Cleaning: After each use, clean the chain to remove sap, sawdust, and debris. A wire brush and chain cleaner can be used.
- Lubrication: Ensure the chain is always well-oiled. If storing the chain for an extended period, clean it thoroughly and apply a light coat of oil to prevent rust.
- Inspect for Damage: Regularly inspect the chain for bent or broken links, cracked rivets, or excessive wear. Replace the chain if any significant damage is found.
- Guide Bar Maintenance: Flip the guide bar periodically to ensure even wear. Clean the guide bar groove and oil holes regularly.
6. Troubleshooting Common Issues
| Issue | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Chain not cutting efficiently / dull quickly | Dull cutters, incorrect sharpening angle, hitting foreign objects (dirt, rocks) | Sharpen chain, verify sharpening angles, avoid cutting into ground or debris. |
| Chain comes off the bar | Incorrect chain tension (too loose), worn guide bar groove, worn drive sprocket | Adjust chain tension, inspect and replace guide bar or sprocket if worn. |
| Chain smokes or overheats | Insufficient lubrication, dull chain, incorrect chain tension (too tight) | Check oil reservoir and oiler function, sharpen chain, adjust chain tension. |
| Excessive vibration | Damaged chain links, unevenly sharpened cutters, worn drive sprocket | Inspect chain for damage, ensure even sharpening, check drive sprocket for wear. |
7. Product Specifications
The TrueCut replacement chainsaw chain features the following specifications:
- Brand: TrueCut
- Pitch: 3/8" Low Profile (LP)
- Gauge: .050" (G)
- Drive Links: 52
- Cutter Type: Dual Raker - Semi Chisel
- Compatibility: Designed for Shindaiwa Models 346, 350, 352, 355, 357, 360, 90
- Low Kickback: Yes
- Product Dimensions: Approximately 3 x 2 x 6 inches (packaged)
- Weight: Approximately 9 ounces
8. Warranty and Support
Specific warranty information for this TrueCut replacement chainsaw chain is not provided in this manual. For details regarding warranty coverage, please refer to the product packaging or contact the retailer or manufacturer directly.
For technical support or further assistance, please contact TrueCut customer service through their official website or the contact information provided with your purchase.