Top Plate Sharpening Angles
(Fig. 20e)
CORRECT 30°- This optimal angle can be
obtained only when the specified files and
proper setting are used. File holders are
marked with guide marks to align the file
properly to produce the correct top plate angle.
LESS THAN 30°- The tooth is too dull for
cutting.
MORE THAN 30°- The edge of the cutting tooth
is feathered and dulls quickly.
Side Plate Angle (Fig. 20f)
CORRECT 40° - The optimal angle can be
produced automatically if the correct diameter
file is used in the file holder.
HOOK - "Grabs" and dulls quickly. Increases
potential of KICKBACK. Results from using a
file with a diameter that is too small, or a file
held too low.
BACKWARD SLOPE - Needs too much feed
pressure, causes excessive wear to bar and
chain. Results from using a file with a diameter
too large, or a file held too high.
Depth-Gauge Clearance
a. The depth gauge should be maintained at a
clearance of 0.025 in. (0.6 mm), as shown in
Fig. 20g. Use a depth gauge tool (available
separately) to check the depth gauge
clearances.
b. Check the depth-gauge clearance every time the chain is filed.
Use a flat file and a depth-gauge jointer (both available separately) to lower all gauges
uniformly (Fig. 20h). Use a 0.025 in. (0.6 mm) depth-gauge jointer.
Depth-gauges must be adjusted with the flat file in the same direction the adjoining cutter was
filed with the round file. Use care not to contact the cutter face with the flat file when adjusting
depth gauges.
Fig . 20g
Depth gauge clearance
30
0.025" (0.6 mm)
Fig . 20e
Top plate sharpening angles
Less than 30° More than 30°
30°
CORRECT
INCORRECT INCORRECT
Fig . 20f
Side plate angle
40°
CORRECT
INCORRECT INCORRECT
Fig . 20h
Depth gauge jointer
Backward
Hook
Slope
Flat file