Keeping your saw in tip-top condition will definitely mean you will get the best from it and for longer. Cleaning your machine after use, as well as preparing it for longer-term storage, is essential. This guide is a general reference with specifics, as you'd expect, to ParkerBrand chainsaws.

Cleaning After Use

Your saw will be working hard for you, and keeping it in tip-top condition requires a bit of attention after use, before storage and more frequently. Of course, our manual does cover maintenance and care of your machine in the back section (we've popped the same checklist for your down below), but we thought a closer look at the essentials wouldn't hurt!

SAFETY FIRST

Before starting to clean the machine, it is essential that you:

• Fully switch off your machine
•  Allow it to cool down
•  Remove the coil-pack from the top of the spark plug to completely ensure the saw can not be started
•  Ensure that your machine has been fully drained of fuel and oil. 

ORDER OF SERVICE

• Clean the Exterior: Wipe down the exterior of the chainsaw with a clean cloth to remove any dirt, oil, or debris.
•  Remove the Bar and Chain: Loosen the chain tension and remove the guide bar and chain from the chainsaw. This is typically done by loosening the nuts on the side cover.
•  Clean the Bar and Chain: Use a wire brush or an old toothbrush to scrub dirt, sawdust, and oil from the guide bar and chain. If the chain is very dirty, you can soak it in a mixture of warm water and mild detergent before scrubbing.
•  Inspect the Chain: Check the chain for any damaged or worn-out links. If you find any, it's a good idea to replace the chain.
•  Clean the Air Filter:Remove the air filter cover and take out the air filter. Clean the air filter with soap and water or replace it if it's damaged or excessively dirty.
•  Clean the Spark Arrestor: If your chainsaw has a spark arrestor, remove it and clean it using a wire brush or compressed air. This helps maintain proper airflow and combustion.
•  Inspect and Clean the Cooling Fins: Check the cooling fins on the engine for any buildup of sawdust or debris. Use a brush or compressed air to clean them.
•  Inspect the Fuel and Oil System: Check the fuel and oil tanks for any debris or contamination. Clean the filters if necessary.
•  Check and Tighten Screws and Bolts: Inspect all screws, bolts, and nuts on the chainsaw and tighten any that may have loosened during use.
•  Lubricate the Chain and Bar: Apply bar and chain oil to the guide bar and chain to ensure proper lubrication during operation.
•  Reassemble the Chainsaw: Put the cleaned and inspected components back together, making sure to tension the chain properly.
•  Sharpen the Chain (if needed): If the chain has become dull, take the opportunity to sharpen it using a chainsaw file or a specialized sharpening tool.
•  Reconnect Spark Plug: If you disconnected the spark plug, reconnect it before starting the chainsaw.
•  Start the Chainsaw and Test: Start the chainsaw and run it for a few moments to ensure everything functions correctly.

Regular cleaning and maintenance will keep your chainsaw in good working condition and extend its lifespan. Always refer to your chainsaw's manual for specific instructions and guidelines.

Storage

If you are storing your machine for a good while, ensure that you have emptied your machine of both fuel and oil. Doing so prevents corrosion of the fuel tank, fuel pipes and two-stroke drying in the carb. You can find further useful information here, including how to run your machine dry for storage.