Concrete Chain Saw

Tips for using a concrete chain saw:

Using a concrete-cutting chain saw isn’t as difficult as it appears. Follow these helpful tips from ICS to simplify your project.

1. Keep steady, firm pressure on the saw as the chain cuts. This helps prevents chain bounce and chattering and helps extend diamond life.

2. For the straightest cuts, use the “step cut” method. After outlining the cut, score the cut line approximately 1/2" deep using the nose of the bar. Next, deepen cut by about 2", then plunge through and complete the cut using the Wallwalker attachment available with ICS saws as a lever.

3. Plunge cut instead of starting on top of the wall. Use the “step cut” method and begin with a plunge cut several inches from the top of the wall.

4. Always operate a chainsaw at full throttle. Apply enough feed force so speed drops between 20 and 30 percent when cutting. If too much feed force is applied, the engine will lug causing the engine to overheat. The chain will also not have enough speed to cut effectively. If too little feed force is applied, the diamonds will skid and not cut well.

5. When cutting heavy rebar, slowly rock the saw over the rebar. This keeps you cutting concrete as well as steel and helps keep diamond exposed. Expect shorter chain life when cutting heavy rebar.

6. A properly tensioned chain optimizes cutting performance. A good rule of thumb: The chain should be tight but can be pulled around the bar by hand.

7. If the saw begins to cut consistently crooked, turn the guide bar over and use the other side. If problem persists, dress worn rails with belt grinder. The normal life of a guide bar is two to three chains; heavy rebar can shorten bar life.

8. With a new chain, increase cutting speed to “open up the diamonds”. Do this by making a few cuts in an abrasive material such as a cinder block.