Makita Cordless Chainsaw Problems : Top 5 Issues And Solutions

Makita is the brand behind a broad range of cordless chainsaws. Makita cordless chainsaws come highly recommended. Today let us look at some of the common Makita cordless chainsaw problems. This will better prepare you if you are looking to purchase a Makita cordless chainsaw.

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What Is The Makita Cordless Chainsaw?

A Makita cordless chainsaw is any of the many different types of cordless chainsaws made by Makita. Makita is one of the most reputable brands for such utility tools. A Makita cordless chainsaw is battery-powered; typically by two 18 volts Li-ion batteries. There is great convenience in using a Makita cordless chainsaw but problems do occur sometimes.

Makita Cordless Chainsaw Problems

Makita cordless chainsaw problems are there and you must know them. They are usually the kind of problems you can avoid. Plus in the event they do occur, you can effectively address them. Here some of the common Makita cordless chainsaw problems:

1. Chainsaw Is Not Starting

This is definitely a common Makita cordless chainsaw problem. Upon switching it on the chainsaw may not start turning. At times it can stop during operation and not start again. This is a problem that can be caused by:

  • Battery cartridges may not be in place or not installed at all.
  • Battery charge may be low or the batteries could be faulty.
  • Power switch could be faulty or even off.

Troubleshooting Chainsaw Is Not Starting Problem

You have to make some checks to ascertain the root cause. This is often a straightforward problem to diagnose. Once you have thoroughly checked you can try out the following remedies:

  • Ensure batteries are installed and firmly in place.
  • Recharge or replace batteries.
  • Ensure the power switch is on.

2. Chainsaw Not Reaching Maximum RPM

Different RPMs are preferable when operating a Makita cordless chainsaw. There are times you will need to operate at the maximum RPM. A problem may occur where the chainsaw fails to reach that peak. The possible causes of the problem may be:

  • Batteries may be out of place.
  • Battery power may be going down.
  • Drive system could be faulty.

Troubleshooting Chainsaw Not Reaching Maximum RPM Problem

Obviously you must start by inspecting the chainsaw mechanism. Then you will check other associated systems and components. Once you have narrowed down the possible causes you can do the following:

  • Ensure batteries are correctly installed.
  • Recharge or replace batteries.
  • Get drive system serviced or overhauled.

3. Chain Not Properly Oiled

For your Makita cordless chainsaw to operate optimally, the chainsaw must be properly oiled. When operating your Makita cordless chainsaw you may notice there is no oil on the chain. That is problem that needs attention; it is often caused by:

  • Oil may be depleted.
  • Oil guide groove may be faulty or dirty.
  • Oil delivery could be faulty.

Troubleshooting Chain Not Properly Oiled Problem

This is a problem that is mostly easy to diagnose and fix. You just have to check the chain and the oiling mechanism for any issues. Some of the probable remedies to explore are:

  • Top up oil in the oil tank.
  • Fix or clean the oil guide groove.
  • Turn adjusting screw accordingly to rectify oil delivery anomalies.

4. Excessive Vibration

Under normal circumstances your Makita cordless chainsaw vibrates somehow. This is to be expected when operating your Makita cordless chainsaw. However, excessive vibration is problematic. This may be caused by the following:

  • Guide bar may be too loose or faulty.
  • Chain may be too loose or faulty.
  • Loose or worn out components e.g. bolts, nuts, bearings, and the like.

Troubleshooting Excessive Vibration Problem

When excessive vibration is at play you must carefully inspect your Makita cordless chainsaw. Inspecting whilst running and off will usually indicate where the issue is. Some of the solutions you can explore are:

  • Fix, adjust, or replace guide bar.
  • Adjust, fix, or replace saw chain.
  • Adjust or replace loose or worn out components.

5. Chainsaw Is Not Cutting

This is also another common Makita cordless chainsaw problem. You may notice that with the chainsaw properly running it will not be cutting. Sometimes it may not be effectively cutting. Possible causes of this problem are:

  • Cutting chain could be dull or worn out.
  • Chain tension may be improper.
  • Chain bar could be damaged or worn out.
  • Clutch pads may be worn out.

Troubleshooting Chainsaw Is Not Cutting Problem

You just have to closely check the chainsaw to figure out the root cause. Some of the possible solutions you can explore here are:

  • Sharpen or replace cutting chain.
  • Ensure chain is not too loose or too tight; adjust accordingly.
  • Fix or replace chain bar.
  • Fix or replace the clutch pads.

How To Avoid Makita Cordless Chainsaw Problems

Avoiding Makita cordless chainsaw problems largely depends on you. After every use of your Makita cordless chainsaw, thoroughly clean it. Store it in a cool dry place ensuring the chainsaw does not have any residual moisture. Before and after every use you must also thoroughly inspect your Makita cordless chainsaw. This will help you detect any issues needing attention quickly. Overall, learn to use your Makita cordless chainsaw responsibly. If you diligently do all this, you will avoid Makita cordless chainsaw problems.

What Is The Runtime Of A Makita Cordless Chainsaw?

That may depend on the exact type of batteries in a Makita cordless chainsaw. Let us suppose there are two 5.0 amp hour batteries. You can have your Makita cordless chainsaw running non-stop for 30 minutes.

How Many Times Can You Charge A Makita Cordless Chainsaw Battery?

Makita indicate that you can get more than 1000 charge cycles per battery. Let us assume you charge the battery once in a day, 5 days a week. That translates to almost 4 years.

Conclusion

The common Makita cordless chainsaw problems are mostly inevitable. However, they are not deal breakers if you are considering purchasing a Makita cordless chainsaw. The good thing is that now you know what to expect. Plus you are better prepared to avoid and mitigate any problems.