How to fix stiff chain

[livemusic]

Threw a chain on an Echo 2511T, maybe it got a bit too loose. Now, there is a chain link that is stiff, I cannot make it fully swivel. I cannot see anything wrong with it. Any idea how I can make it loosen up when I can't see any burr to file down?

EDIT: This chain is pretty new, only has an hour or two run time on it and is the stock bar/chain that came on it.

 

[beaglebriar]

Is it bent?

 

[livemusic]

Is it bent?

As I said, I can't see anything wrong with it. But something is, obviously.

 

[Wood Doctor]

Spray Liquid Wrench on the stiff link, let is sit a minute, and then use two pairs of pliers to loosen it up. If that fails, replace the link. Check other links in the loop. This "disease" has been known to spread.

 

[beaglebriar]

As I said, I can't see anything wrong with it. But something is, obviously.

Could be the Viagra? Might have to talk it down.

 

[Woodpecker]

Show the chain some of Scott's filter pics. Problemo el solvedo. No mo stiffie chain.

 

[huskyboy]

Piss rev with the chain slightly loose. You didn’t hear this from me though lol. Sometimes it’s a burr that can be filed off.

 

[Philbert]

A few things can make a chain link 'stiff':

Some type of burr on the drive link, tie strap(s), or cutter may have formed when the chain was thrown. Look at these with a magnifying glass, especially, where they pass by each other. Sometimes this can be resolved by working the links back and forth while applying sideways pressure. Sometimes, that link needs to be replaced.

As above, but with a bent or twisted link.

The lube in really old chains can dry out, and keep the center rivet / bearing from moving, or receiving the thicker bar and chain oil. I put a drop of thin, 3-in-1 oil between the links, and work it back and forth. Works pretty quick, if that is the issue.

When a chain is assembled into a loop, sometimes the rivet gets spun too tight. Sometimes this can be loosened up with light pressure from a chain breaker. Other times, you replace the link.

I am guessing #1 from your description.

Philbert

 

[Wood Doctor]

Heat can also cause it. The chain gets too hot due to oil that's to thin or not enough applied. Hot weather, like what we have been having also makes it worse. Bars can get so hot you can brand yourself with them.

Lately I've had chains brought in for sharpening with links that are ready to snap right off.

 

[CR888]

Usually when spinning loops up if you join the rivets a little too hard this is what happens. Lo-pro/Picco chain is most susceptible to this. I bet it was where the chain was joined up. It may go away with use or you need to punch out the offending rivets (2) and do them again. Picco needs a finer touch that .325-.404. It takes good 'feel' to avoid it. A kid at the saw shop desk with minimal experience will almost always fail in this area...its easy to stuff up.

 

[livemusic]

UPDATE... I kept getting nowhere with the chain. Soaked it couple of days in diesel. No go still. I kept trying to loosen it and got nowhere. I finally grabbed some PB Blaster penetrating spray and within a minute, I had some movement. I finally got it reasonably free. Put it on the saw once it was decent and it seems fine now. The Blaster is good stuff.

 

[smokey7]

Krol oil is good chit too. But pb blaster is my standby regular stuff always several cans around my shop

 

[Wood Doctor]

Usually when spinning loops up if you join the rivets a little too hard this is what happens. Lo-pro/Picco chain is most susceptible to this. I bet it was where the chain was joined up. It may go away with use or you need to punch out the offending rivets (2) and do them again. Picco needs a finer touch that .325-.404. It takes good 'feel' to avoid it. A kid at the saw shop desk with minimal experience will almost always fail in this area...its easy to stuff up.

About 10 years ago I used to buy loops from a logger who made his own chains from reels. Several times his master links were too tight. He always told me, "Relax, Edwin. It will loosen up as you use the chain."

Seldom did it ever loosen up and it ran rough as it went around the bar, like an engine wth a bad knock. So, I learned to make my own chain loops. If I ever make the master too tight, I remake the link.