To get the most out of your chainsaw, proper maintenance is crucial. This includes keeping the machine clean, sharp, and well-oiled. It’s also important to ensure that all parts are compatible and in line. If the chain is too big or the bar doesn’t fit, your chainsaw simply won’t work.
Choosing the right bar and chain for your chainsaw can be a bit tricky. It’s not as simple as just picking the biggest and strongest one available. You need to know specific information about your chainsaw, such as its capacity and appropriate size, as well as which chains are compatible with which bars. In this article, we’ll provide you with some tips and tricks on how to measure your chainsaw bar and choose the right chain for optimal performance.
Measuring the chainsaw bar
To replace your old chainsaw bar, you need to measure it from the front of the chainsaw to the furthest cutting tip. Round the measurement to the nearest inch to get the length of the bar. The length of the bar is typically an even number, so round up odd numbers and fractions. Use a tape measure to ensure accuracy. Once you have the length, you can find a replacement bar that matches the size of your chainsaw. Remember to unplug the spark plug wire for safety before measuring your chainsaw bar.
Here are some resources that can help you measure your chainsaw bar:
- How to Measure Chainsaw Bar Length: 8 Steps (with Pictures) – wikiHow
- Tips for Measuring a Chainsaw Bar and Chain
- How to Measure a Chainsaw Bar and Chain
Remember to use caution when working with power tools.
Measuring your chain
When it comes to replacing your chainsaw chain, it’s important to know the chain’s “pitch” and “gauge”. To find the pitch, measure the distance between any three consecutive rivets on the chain and divide the result by two. The rivets are the small, round studs holding the chain segments in place. Start by measuring from the first rivet to the third, then divide the result in half to determine your chain pitch.
To determine your chain gauge, you can use a simple trick. Grab a dime, a quarter, and a penny, and place each coin into the bar groove of the chainsaw. See which coin fits the bar groove smoothly without having to force it in. This will be your reference for chain gauge. Clean out as much wood chips and sap from the bar as possible before testing the coins.
If you’re unsure of your chain’s pitch or gauge, you may be able to find the necessary information stamped directly onto your chainsaw bar. Most of the time, this information is located near the bar mounts on the saw. Even if you only have information on the pitch, gauge, and number of drive links, don’t worry. That information should be all you need to find the right replacement chain for your chainsaw.
If you need further assistance, employees at your local store can help you out. Additionally, there are many online bars and chain selection calculators that only require these measurements and can help you find the right replacement.
By following these tips and tricks, you’ll be able to confidently measure and replace your chainsaw chain with ease.
Conclusion on How to Measure the Chainsaw Bar
In order to measure the chainsaw bar, the following steps can be taken:
- Measure the effective cutting length of the chainsaw by placing a tape measure at the very tip of the bar and measuring straight back to the point where the bar enters the chainsaw body. Round that measurement up to the nearest even number.
- Find the cutting length by putting one tip of measuring tape on the chainsaw’s edge and measuring it till the bar’s merging point. Most commonly, it would range between 12-20 inches. You may measure it to a fraction number, so consider the closest natural even number.
- Measure the called length of your chainsaw bar by measuring it from its front tip all the way back to the cutter closest to the body of the saw. Round this measurement up to the nearest even number in inches.
- To determine the chain length, measure the distance between three consecutive rivets and then divide the result by 2. Commonly used chain sizes are; 1/4, 3/8 and 0.325.
By following these steps, you can accurately measure your chainsaw bar and determine the appropriate chain length for replacement. It is important to measure correctly to ensure safe and efficient use of your chainsaw.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the proper way to measure a chainsaw bar?
To measure a chainsaw bar, you need to measure the distance from the chainsaw’s front tip to the point where the bar emerges from the chainsaw’s housing. You can use a measuring tape or ruler to measure the length accurately.
What are the steps to replace a chainsaw bar?
To replace a chainsaw bar, you need to loosen the bolts that hold the protective case in place, remove the old bar, and install the new bar. Make sure to tighten the bolts securely and check the tension of the chain before using the chainsaw.
How do I determine the correct chainsaw bar length for my Stihl chainsaw?
To determine the correct chainsaw bar length for your Stihl chainsaw, you need to check the owner’s manual or the manufacturer’s website. The correct bar length depends on the model of your Stihl chainsaw.
What is the difference between chainsaw bar length and cc?
Chainsaw bar length refers to the length of the chainsaw’s guide bar, while cc (cubic centimeters) refers to the engine displacement of the chainsaw. The bar length determines the maximum cutting diameter, while the cc determines the power of the chainsaw.
How do I match a chainsaw chain to a bar?
To match a chainsaw chain to a bar, you need to consider the pitch, gauge, and number of drive links of the chain. The pitch and gauge should match the specifications of the bar, and the number of drive links should be compatible with the chainsaw’s sprocket.
What is the gauge of my chainsaw bar?
The gauge of a chainsaw bar refers to the thickness of the drive links that fit into the bar’s groove. You can measure the gauge of your chainsaw bar using a caliper or by checking the specifications in the owner’s manual or the manufacturer’s website.
