3 Most Common Kobalt 80V Chainsaw Problems and Solutions

The Kobalt 80-Volt Max-Volt Lithium Ion (Li-ion) 18-inch Cordless Electric Chainsaw works great for trimming trees or clearing small saplings. The best part is that it does not make extra noise and is equipped with amazing safety features to ensure better user comfort.

Unfortunately, users might come across some typical issues like Motor malfunctioning or failure, Chainsaw won’t run, and Warning light or Alert LED indicator keeps illuminating.

In this article, I’ll go through each of these typical problems that one should be aware of before purchasing a Kobalt 80V chainsaw and offer possible solutions to fix them.

Features & Specifications of Kobalt 80V Chainsaw:

Motor	80V DC
Power Source	‎Corded Electric
Horsepower	3.5 HP
Battery Cell Type	‎Lithium Ion
Package Dimensions	34.5 x 10.5 x 10 inches
Bar Length	18 In. (458mm)
Chain Pitch	3/8 In. (9,50 mm)
Chain Gauge	0.05 In. (1,27 mm)
Chain oil tank capacity	6 oz. (177,44 ml)

Common Kobalt 80V Chainsaw Problems and Solutions:

Problems with Kobalt 80V Chainsaw	Solutions
Chainsaw Motor malfunctioning	Re-tension chain, replace the guide bar and chain as mentioned in the manual, sharpen the chain or reverse the direction of the chain.
Chainsaw won’t run	Charge the battery, install the battery correctly and pull back on the chain brake.
Alert LED Indicator Staying On	Check whether the battery requires charge or chainsaw is overloaded. Take necessary actions.

1. Chainsaw Motor Malfunctioning

There are two issues that one might encounter while using this chainsaw.

One of the situations that can arise is where the motor will run, but the chain will not rotate. It can occur if the chain is too tight or there’s an issue in the guide bar and chain assembly.

Another potential scenario is where the motor runs and even the chain rotates. But unfortunately, you will notice that the chainsaw will fail to cut. It’s either due to a dull chain or because the chain is on backward.

The Fix:

To re-tension, slacken the chain cover lock nuts slightly, and remember you do not have to remove them completely to adjust.

Rotate the chain adjustment screw 1/4 clockwise to increase the chain tension or turn counterclockwise to decrease the chain tension.

Once you are sure that it has reached the desired tension level, lift up the guide bar tip and retighten the chain cover lock nuts securely.

Do not forget to check the guide bar & chain assembly and if you see any damage, replace the guide bar and chain.

To replace the guide bar and chain, use a wrench to remove the battery, supplied wrench from the rear handle, the two chain cover lock nuts, and the chain cover from the mounting surface.

Lift the guide bar away from the main body of your chainsaw as well as release the chain from the sprocket.

Now, remove the old chain from the guide bar and lay out the new saw chain in a loop, and straighten any kinks.

Tips: Remember, the cutters should face the chain rotation direction.

Place the chain drive links into the bar groove and position the chain. Now, you will see a so a loop at the back of the guide bar so hold the chain and put the loop around the sprocket.

Then, replace the chain cover and turn the chain adjustment screw clockwise until the chain seats snugly against the bar with the drive links in the bar groove. Lift the guide bar tip up to check for sag. Release and turn the chain adjustment screw 1/2 turn clockwise to remove the sag. Hold the tip of the guide bar up and tighten the chain cover lock nuts.

Check the chain and if it’s dull, sharpen it. If it’s on backward, reverse the direction of the chain.

2. Chainsaw Won’t Run

This is another typical problem to encounter while using the Kobalt 80V chainsaw. It occurs due to a lack of battery charge, battery not correctly installed, or the chain is engaged.

The Fix:

First, check the battery charge and remove it by pressing the battery release button on the chain saw. Then, gasp the chainsaw firmly and pull the battery out of the battery opening. Now, follow the charging procedures provided in the charger manual.

Next, if the battery is not installed correctly, align the battery with the battery opening and insert the battery into that opening until the battery release button locks into place. Then, push the battery down until it locks into place, and you hear the click sound.

If the chain brake is engaged, then pull back on the chain brake to disengage.

3. Alert LED Indicator Staying On

Another common issue that you might encounter with your Kobalt 80V chainsaw is the warning light or alert LED indicator beeping. It can arise because the battery needs enough charge or the chainsaw is overloaded.

The Fix:

First, inspect the battery and if required, follow the previously mentioned removal procedure to charge it fully.

If the chainsaw is overloaded, make sure the Overload protection is active and release the trigger to reset the internal circuit breaker so that you can continue the work again.

Top 3 Alternative Saws of Kobalt 80V Chainsaw:

1. Oregon CS1500 18-Inch 15 Amp Self-Sharpening Corded Electric Chainsaw

A powerful 120V low kickback, auto-tension, UL Certified Tool with a 2-year warranty and works perfectly for yard work in all seasons. An ideal choice for homeowners and DIY creators.

Oregon electric chainsaw is a way better choice than the Kobalt 80V because it can generate 15 amps/120 Volts maximum power, makes low noise or vibration while operating, has no emission, as well as can cut every tree limb, branch, or trunk evenly.

2. Greenworks Pro 80V 18-Inch Brushless Cordless Chainsaw

Compact and lightweight design to offer maximum control, easy to use, operate, and adjust, which is perfect for professional users.

Initially, it might seem just similar to the Kobalt 80V, but this Greenworks Pro 80V chainsaw is equipped with TRUBRUSHLESS MOTOR TECHNOLOGY to deliver 100 up to 150 cuts per charge and ensures the ultimate sustainable cutting solution with no gas, no oil, and no emission.

3. EGO Power+ CS1804 18-Inch 56-Volt Cordless Chain Saw:

Equipped with auto tensioning chain system, bright LED headlights, brushless motor, and 300 cuts on 4×4 lumber cutting range.

According to 84% of amazon consumers, it is one of the best battery-powered chainsaws since it works excellent for both homeowners as well as professional projects.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Conclusion

The Kobalt 80V chainsaw works great taking down a large tree, cutting some thick wood logs, or removing long shrubs.

But it also has a fair share of limitations, and one might encounter earlier mentioned troubles while using this chainsaw.

However, you can easily fix those issues by following my instructions.

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