Chain will not cut straight

The main causes of a chain that will not cut straight:

• Uneven or improperly sharpened chain teeth: If the chain’s cutters are different lengths or filed at inconsistent angles, the saw may drift to one side. Make sure all teeth are sharpened to the same height and angle for straight, even cutting. 

• Dull chain: A dull chain won’t bite evenly, causing the saw to drift or wander. Sharpen the chain or replace it if necessary to restore smooth, straight cutting. 

• Incorrect chain tension: Chains that are too loose or too tight can affect cutting performance. Ensure the chain is properly tensioned according to the manufacturer’s manual for optimal tracking and control.

• Bent guide bar: A bent or damaged guide bar can cause uneven cutting. Inspect the bar regularly and replace it if necessary to maintain straight, accurate cuts. 

• Unevenly worn drive links or chain: If certain drive links are more worn than others, the chain may not track straight. Inspect the chain regularly and replace it if uneven wear is detected to ensure smooth, accurate cutting

• Improper filing technique: Filing the top plate or depth gauges incorrectly can cause the chain to cut unevenly. Ensure proper filing angles and consistent depth gauge settings for straight, efficient cutting.

If the issue persists, the unit should be taken to an authorized ECHO® dealer for evaluation.