Can you use WD-40 on a chainsaw?
No. For your Craftsman 358740160 gas chainsaw, WD-40 is not a safe or effective substitute for bar and chain oil because it is not designed to provide the continuous, tacky lubrication the chain and guide bar need while cutting.
What to use instead (recommended lubricants)
Your saw is designed to run bar and chain oil through the oiler system to protect the bar, chain, and clutch area from heat and wear.
- Use bar and chain oil as your first choice
- In freezing weather, thin bar and chain oil with 5% to 10% #1 diesel fuel or kerosene so it stays free-flowing
- If bar and chain oil is not available, use a good grade SAE 30 oil
- Never use waste oil for bar and chain lubrication
- Always stop the engine before removing the oil cap
For model-specific operating and lubrication guidance, follow the 358740160 operator’s manual.
Why WD-40 is a poor choice for bar and chain lubrication
WD-40 is a water-displacing spray and light penetrant; it does not stay on the chain like proper chain oil.
| Item | Designed for continuous chain lubrication? | Stays on chain at speed? | Typical result on a chainsaw |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bar and chain oil | Yes | Yes (tacky) | Cooler cutting, less wear |
| SAE 30 oil (backup) | Somewhat | Less tacky | Works short-term, more fling-off |
| WD-40 | No | No | Rapid fling-off, poor protection |
Quick checks if you suspect poor lubrication
If lubrication is wrong or low, you can see overheating symptoms quickly.
- Check the bar and chain oil tank level before cutting
- Look for smoke from the chain or discoloration of the bar
- Confirm the oil is free-flowing (especially in cold weather)
- Clean debris from the bar groove and oiling holes when you service the chain
- If the chain brake is locked, unlock it before cutting (after starting and stabilizing the saw)
Why it matters
Proper bar and chain lubrication reduces friction and heat, which helps prevent premature wear of the chain, guide bar, and drive components. It also helps the saw cut more efficiently and reduces the chance of unsafe cutting behavior.
Last updated: February 2026
How can I tell what size chain my chainsaw needs?
For your Craftsman 358740160 gas chainsaw, the correct chain size is identified by three specs: pitch, gauge, and drive link count. We recommend matching those specs to what’s stamped on the guide bar or listed in the 358740160 owner’s manual so the chain fits and runs safely.
What to look for on the bar (fastest method)
Most guide bars have the chain specs stamped or printed near the mounting slot. Look for:
- Pitch (common sizes include 3/8 in or .325 in)
- Gauge (common sizes include .050 in, .058 in, .063 in)
- Drive links (DL count, such as 55, 56, etc.)
If any of those are missing or worn off, use the steps below.
How to measure chain specs if the bar markings are unreadable
- Count drive links: count the individual drive links that ride in the bar groove.
- Check gauge: measure the thickness of a drive link with calipers, or compare it to a gauge tool.
- Confirm pitch: measure the distance across 3 rivets (center-to-center) and divide by 2.
Quick reference table
| Spec | What it means | Why it must match |
|---|---|---|
| Pitch | spacing of chain rivets | must match the drive sprocket and bar nose sprocket |
| Gauge | thickness of drive links | must match the bar groove width |
| Drive links | chain length | must match the bar length and mounting geometry |
Why it matters (fit and safety)
A mismatched chain can bind in the bar groove, derail, or increase kickback risk. Your manual also emphasizes following safety and maintenance practices to reduce kickback hazards and keep the saw controllable during cutting and chain brake operation. See the kickback and chain guidance in the 358740160 owner’s manual.
If you are replacing the chain and related wear parts
When a chain is worn or repeatedly derails, inspect these common wear points:
- Bar rails and bar groove
- Drive sprocket and clutch drum
- Chain tensioner function
- Chain brake engagement
If you’re servicing the drive system, the ayp chainsaw clutch drum 501628301 is one of the model-matched parts commonly replaced with the clutch and sprocket components.
Last updated: February 2026
Is 40 1 or 50 1 better for chainsaws?
For the Craftsman gas chainsaw model 358740160, 50:1 is the correct fuel mix; it matches the operator guidance for this saw and provides the intended lubrication and performance. Using 40:1 adds extra oil, but it can increase smoke and carbon buildup compared with the specified ratio.
What we recommend for model 358740160
Follow the ratio shown in the 358740160 operator’s manual. Use fresh, properly mixed fuel and avoid higher-ethanol blends.
- Mix 50 parts gasoline to 1 part 2-cycle oil (50:1)
- Use quality 2-cycle oil intended for air-cooled engines
- Avoid E15 and E85 fuels
- Mix fuel outdoors, away from sparks or flame
- Wipe up spills and move the saw away from the fueling spot before starting
40:1 vs 50:1: quick comparison
| Mix ratio | Oil content | What you’ll notice | Best use case |
|---|---|---|---|
| 50:1 | 2.0% | Cleaner running, less smoke | What this Craftsman saw is designed for |
| 40:1 | 2.5% | More smoke, more deposits possible | Older equipment that explicitly calls for it or severe-duty use when allowed by the manual |
If you accidentally ran 40:1 in this saw
One tank of 40:1 typically does not cause immediate damage, but we correct it back to 50:1 on the next fill.
- Drain and refill with fresh 50:1 if the mix is unknown or very oily
- Check the spark plug condition (fouling can cause hard starting)
- Watch for heavy smoke and reduced idle quality
- Keep the muffler area clear; it runs hot during and after use
Why it matters
The fuel-oil ratio directly affects engine lubrication, spark plug life, and carbon buildup in the muffler and exhaust. Sticking with the specified 50:1 helps the 358740160 start easier, idle correctly, and cut consistently.
Last updated: February 2026
Who makes Craftsman chainsaws now?
Craftsman chainsaws are built by different manufacturers depending on the model and production era; for the Craftsman 358.740160 platform, the design and parts family commonly align with AYP/Husqvarna-style components, so the “maker” is best identified by the exact model number and the parts list in the 358740160 owner's manual.
How to tell who made your specific Craftsman chainsaw
We recommend using the model number and the parts breakdown rather than the badge on the cover.
- Match the full model number on the data label: 358740160
- Use the illustrated parts list to spot shared component families (starter, clutch, oil pump)
- Compare part descriptions that reference AYP-style components
- Confirm bar length and configuration (this model series is shown with a 16-inch bar)
- Use the manual’s “Parts & Ordering” section for the correct support channel
What “made by” means for parts and repairs
Craftsman is the brand on the saw, but manufacturing and component sourcing can vary across model families. For repairs, what matters is that parts are engineered to fit the 358740160 chassis.
| What you’re trying to do | Best identifier to use | Why it helps |
|---|---|---|
| Order replacement parts | Model number 358740160 | Ensures correct fit across similar-looking saws |
| Identify compatible assemblies | Part ID and part name | Avoids mismatched clutch, starter, or oiling parts |
| Follow service procedures | Owner’s manual steps | Prevents damage to flywheel, clutch, and fasteners |
Example parts that help confirm the platform
If your parts list includes items like these, it typically indicates the same component family used across certain AYP/Husqvarna-style designs:
Why it matters
Knowing the true model family helps you get the right chain, clutch, ignition, and starter parts the first time, and it also helps you follow the correct safety and maintenance procedures (especially around the clutch and flywheel).
Last updated: February 2026





