Stihl 056 Instruction Manual - Page 25

Checking chain lubrication Worn chain sprocket Breaking in the Oilomatic chain Every new chain has to be broken in for about 2 to 3 minutes. Ample chain lubrication is essential during this period. After breaking in, check chain tension and adjust if necessary. When the chain saw is operated in extremely cold weather a correctly cold-tensioned Oilomatic chain will begin to sag noticeably as it warms up to normal operating temperature. The chain must then be retensioned. However, it must be slackened off again immediately after you stop the saw. This is necessary to avoid contraction stress which would occur as the chain cools down to ambient temperature. Correct chain tension The chain must always be slackened off after finishing cutting work. A chain properly tensioned when it is warm would, when the temperature drops, be subjected to such great contraction stresses that the chain would break and also damage the crankshaft and bearings. The Oilomatic chain must, therefore, always be tensioned (with the engine shut off) before you start cutting. Chain tension is correct in the cold condition when the chain fits snugly on the underside of the bar and can still be pulled around the bar by hand - take care, the cutting edges are very sharp. A new chain must be retensioned more frequently until it is fully stretched. Chain sprocket The stress and strain on the chain sprocket are particularly high. If the wear marks on the teeth are very pronounced (about 0.5 mm/0.02 in), the sprocket should be replaced. A worn sprocket reduces the service life of your saw chain. Replace the chain sprocket with every second Oilomatic chain. It is best to use two chains alternately with one sprocket. 23