How To Install a Locked Chainsaw Sprocket Plate

Chances are that you'll need to know how to reinstall a locked sprocket plate on your chainsaw if you perform your own repairs. This instructable explains how to reverse this common repair mistake.

It's not uncommon for chainsaw users to find themselves in the difficult situation pictured below. The chainsaw in the picture has just had its sprocket plate removed with the brake left in the locked position.

The chances to mistakenly leave the brake locked before removing the plate is very high because removing a chainsaw's sprocket plate is the first step in several frequently-performed chainsaw repairs and maintenance procedures.

This little oversight can get the best of even the most careful tool users.

We explain the steps to reinstall a locked chainsaw sprocket plate below because knowing how to quickly get that plate back on your saw can turn your unlucky day around.

Step 1 Remove the Chainsaw Chain and Bar

• Steps to Install a Locked Sprocket Plate

Remembering to unlock a chainsaw brake before removing the sprocket cover is such an important check to make because locked sprocket plates do not reinstall on their chainsaws easily.

This mistake only happens on chainsaw models where the saw's brake mechanism is actually part of the sprocket plate (like the saw pictured above), but this is the case for many models.

Basically, the matched brake mechanism dogs on the plate and the saw must be forced together while pulling on the brake lever to unlock them.

 

1. Remove the chainsaw chain and bar.

It is difficult or impossible to install the locked sprocket plate on the chainsaw with the chain and bar still on the bar.

Remove the bar and chain and set them aside until the brake mechanism is unlocked later in the repair.

2. Lay the chainsaw on its side.

Lay the chainsaw down with its sprocket plate side up.

This will make it possible to exert the pressure on the sprocket cover needed to force the brake mechanism back together.