Ryobi P540 - Manual (Page 23)

23
CHAIN MAINTENANCE
See Figures 32 - 33.
Fig. 34
Fig. 33
CHECK FOR WEAR
OR DAMAGE
Use only low-kickback chain on this saw. This fast-cutting
chain will provide kickback reduction when properly main-
tained.
For smooth and fast cutting, chain needs to be maintained
properly. The chain requires sharpening when the wood chips
are small and powdery, the chain must be forced through the
wood during cutting, or the chain cuts to one side. During
maintenance of your chain, consider the following:
n
Improper filing angle of the side plate can increase the
risk of a severe kickback.
n Raker (depth gauge) clearance.
n Too low increases the potential for kickback.
n Not low enough decreases cutting ability.
n If cutter teeth have hit hard objects such as nails and
stones, or have been abraded by mud or sand on the
wood, have service dealer sharpen chain.
NOTE: Inspect the drive sprocket for wear or damage when
replacing the chain. If signs of wear or damage are present
in the areas indicated, have the drive sprocket replaced by
a Ryobi Service dealer.
HOW TO SHARPEN THE CUTTERS
See Figures 34 - 35.
Be careful to file all cutters to the specified angles and to
the same length, as fast cutting can be obtained only when
all cutters are uniform.
n
Wear gloves for protection. Properly tension the chain
prior to sharpening. Refer to “Chain Tension Section”
earlier in this manual. Do all of your filing at the mid-point
of the bar.
n Use a 5/32 in. diameter round file and holder.
n Keep the file level with the top plate of the tooth. Do not
let the file dip or rock.
n Using light but firm pressure, stroke towards the front
corner of the tooth.
n Lift file away from the steel on each return stroke.
n Put a few firm strokes on every tooth. File all left hand
cutters in one direction. Then move to the other side and
file the right hand cutters in the opposite direction. Oc-
casionally remove filings from the file with a wire brush.
CAUTION:
Remove the battery pack and make sure the chain has
stopped before you do any work on the saw.
Fig. 32
CUTTING
CORNER
SIDE PLATE
DEPTH GAUGE
TOE
GULLET
HEEL
RIVET HOLE
TOP PLATE
MAINTENANCE
LEFT HAND
CUTTERS
RIGHT HAND
CUTTERS
Fig. 35