Had a problem with the pole saw chain stopping

when put up to cut something. Lost the plastic retaining

inset that stops the drive rod from slipping out of the

shaft a few months back, and therefore assumed it was

something connected with this. So examined all the gear

cogs and tested their turning capabilities while restraining the

drive rod with pliers. Came to the conclusion that they must be

jumping apart because of the lack of this component.

Got a new one, but this didn't work, took it apart again and greased

the cogs, tried again, flippin chain on backwards...  lol  but confident that

it felt better, turned chain around, - back to square one.

 Took it all apart and removed the bar, cleaned the dirt away and found

cog that drove the chain, discovered that this had a circular hollow centre

but the drive shaft was an symetrical longated oval shape...

(not sure of the correct name  lol  ) Thought at first that the circular shape

in the centre of the chain cog had been etched out by friction, but it was too

uniform and there were no left metal filings. Realised that this shape enabled

a certain amount of give/slip in an emergency thereby reducing any damage.

Then looked at all the spring washers surrounding this cog and realised that

these had to be pushing down fairly firmly to stop this cog slipping.

 Tightened the screw in the middle of the washers and tattaaa it worked.

 Made a mental note - next time flippin well ask about the problem on LJN :)