How to Untangle a Chainsaw Chain

A tangled chainsaw chain can be a frustrating and potentially dangerous problem, but it is something that can be fixed easily with the right approach. If you find yourself dealing with a tangled chain, don’t panic! In this article, we will provide step-by-step instructions on how to safely and effectively untangle your chainsaw chain. You will be back to cutting in no time!

Chainsaw chains are rigid in nature and it seems impossible that they could get tangled. Then once they are tangled it seems like there is no possible way of getting it fixed. This problem can occur with poor storage practices. Whether it is your backup chain you keep in your storage bag/box or a brand new chain that is taken out of the box, the chances of a chain getting tangled when it is bunched up are high.

How to untangle a chainsaw chain

Lay the chain out on a flat surface in a circular position
Line all tangle loops so they are on the outside of the chain
Position entire chain so tangled loops are on the bottom
Take the top portion of the chain and move it across the bottom edge
Chain will unfold where the tangle loops meet

Take your time when untangling a chain. Laying the chain out on a flat surface makes it easy to tell if an untangle action is causing a tangle in a different portion of the chain.

Here are the key positions in image form below:

Lay the chain out on a flat surface with the tangled loops on the same side of the chain and on the bottom of your circle.

Pull the top chain portion over the below chain portion and between the tangles. You may need to hold both sides of the chain in place as it will want to move with the movement of the top portion of the chain.

Continue to extend the top part of the chain past the original bottom portion of the main chain loop until you see the chain completely untangle and free from overlaps.

There is no need to continue to hassle with your chains if you store them properly. There are many great storage options that will keep your chains organized and free from tangles!