We carry a variety of cut off machines from Stihl, Husqvarna, Bosch and other quality manufacturers. Whether you’ve recently purchased your saw, or are getting back to work with one you already owned, it’s important to run through a pre-use inspection and perform some necessary maintenance first. Here’s an overview of what to do before putting your cut off machine to work.
Use the manual
Your cut off machine came with a manual that contains a checklist in the form of a maintenance chart. This will give you the key areas that will need to be checked periodically, and a timeline of when certain components will need routine maintenance. Be sure to run through this list before getting to work and perform any necessary maintenance. If additional maintenance is needed that you can’t perform yourself, take your saw to the dealer.
Check key areas
After studying the manual, it’s also important to look over your cut off machine and check for any issues that are obvious. Here are a few components to keep an eye on:
- Look for loose or missing fasteners. Be sure to tighten each and replace as necessary.
- Check the throttle trigger and, perhaps more importantly, the stop switch. Be sure each are in working order.
- Take a close look at the wheel guard and inspect for cracks or other damage. Also, be sure it’s correctly mounted and secure. If any issues are evident, do not operate the saw before they’re fixed.
- Check the anti-vibration mounts to be sure they’re also in working order.
- Remove any oil, grease, or other moisture that may be present on handles and make it difficult to hold the cut off machine. Take a rag to the handle to clean it.
- Inspect the muffler, particularly the spark arrestor screen, which can be easily pulled out and checked for debris and carbon that can plug it. Be sure to clean if necessary, or replace the screen completely.
Installing the wheel
With your inspections and repairs complete, you can install the wheel and begin your work. You’ll want to start by also inspecting the wheel, or wheels you’ll be using for this job. Be sure there is no damage, and that it’s the proper wheel for the job. Be sure the engine is not only in the off position, but also cooled before installing a new wheel, or performing any other type of maintenance. You’ll also need to insert a locking pin in the pulley guard in order to install the wheel. You can then fit the wheel into the arbor. If you’re using a diamond wheel, look for the arrow on the label that should be pointing down and notes the rotation. Composite wheels can be mounted either way, however. Next, you’ll install the thrust washer and hand tighten the hex bolt with the wrench that’s supplied with your machine. Now, remove your locking pin, and check the drive belt for proper tension. If there are no issues, you’re ready to cut.
If you need equipment like cut off machines, die grinders, and more, contact us at Maxwell Supply in Tulsa.