Polesaw

LippyDoodle

So I got myself a 40v polesaw. In the instructions it says to cut the higher limbs first. Why is this? Is it so

• the lower branches cushon the fall for safety
• or to encourage the user not just make one cut on a high branch? 

I only managed to cut a few branches before the weather changed. When cutting a branch it did jump about a bit. Is this down to me being new to using it or does the chain need to be tightened slightly? There was no give in the chain at all when it arrived so I just slackened it till the was a slight V in it when pulled.

Norman_Castle

What does the manual say about chain tension?

Davesnave

If the branch is thin or the chain is not the sharpest, the saw may jump about as you describe. It could also do this if you are over-reaching and not in full control. There shouldn't be much 'give' in the chain and a new chain will stretch.

Lower branches will make the fall of higher branches safer if they can still be reached. Be aware that large, higher  branches can bounce when they hit the ground. I ended up in casualty with a scratched eye, being well clear of the falling limb, but a tiny piece found its way up under my visor during the rebound.

LippyDoodle

Norman_Castle said:

What does the manual say about chain tension?

To have a slight v as I've described. 

LippyDoodle

Davesnave said:

If the branch is thin or the chain is not the sharpest, the saw may jump about as you describe. It could also do this if you are over-reaching and not in full control. There shouldn't be much 'give' in the chain and a new chain will stretch.

Lower branches will make the fall of higher branches safer if they can still be reached. Be aware that large, higher  branches can bounce when they hit the ground. I ended up in casualty with a scratched eye, being well clear of the falling limb, but a tiny piece found its way up under my visor during the rebound.

I think I was over reaching because I didn't fit the middle section which extends the pole. Needed to just try to see if it was in working order. 

Thanks for the warning. Sounds nasty.