Choose saw to suit needs

Press, 16 May 1985, Page 28

Choose saw to suit needs

With so many models of chainsaws on the market, it is important to get the one that will suit individual needs. Important points to look for when choosing a suitable saw are:

• Lightest weight for the work requirements, and well balancd for use in the intended appliction. • A compact, smooth design with no hampering ir-

regularities. • Bar and chain of correct size for the work. • Front and rear handles shaped and placed to afford operating comfort and good control with adequate clearance. Handles should have a non-slip surface, and the level of vibration in the handles should be low.

• The vibration isolation devices should be robust,

durable and should not deteriorate in effectiveness. • Design should be such that failure of one vibration isolator does not cause a saw breakdown. A reduction in vibration isolator efficiency should in no way influence throttle control. ■9 Controls should be conveniently placed for easy operation. ® Saw should have a throt-

tle trigger lockout (interlock) to prevent accidental throttle activation when the operator’s hand is not gripping the rear handle. ® Ignition switch should be placed so that the operator can easily switch off while his hand is still gripping the rear handle.

9 The underside of the rear handle should have a chain guard to protect the operator’s hand if chain breaks. • The muffler design and placement should be such as to . avoid the chance of operator contact with a hot surface during use or while carrying; or the operator being exposed to harmful levels of exhaust fumes in normal operation. 9 The muffler efficiency in noise reduction should be at an acceptable level.

9 Fuel and oil filler caps should be reasonable size and located where no refilling obstructions exist. The oil filler cap should be in a place where overflow spillage will not come in contact with cylinder fins or the inner flywheel surrounds, and both caps should be clearly marked. © Automatic chain oiler, preferably adjustable, will increase bar and chain life. © Easy, safe starting characteristics; a decompression valve on the larger highcompression ratio saws is an advantage. 9 Chain break must be strong and efficient, and a safety mitt of an approved type fitted for protection. 0 Maintenance should be reasonably easy with a minimum of stripping necessary. © Generally, the saw should be robust enough to withstand continuous usage by the average professional operator. (Information supplied by the New Zealand Forest Service.)