Pitch and gauge on a chainsaw chain refer to the size of the chain, which can vary by brand and model. The pitch of a chainsaw chain is the distance between any three consecutive rivets divided by two, while the gauge is the width of the drive link (the part of the chain that fits between the guide bar and the sprocket).
Knowing the pitch and gauge is important to ensure that a replacement chain is the right size for a given chainsaw. In general, a lower gauge (narrower drive link) indicates a smaller chain, while a higher pitch (greater distance between rivets) indicates a larger chain.
Pitch and gauge specifications can usually be found on the packaging of the chain, or can be located in the operator’s manual for the chainsaw.
What is the difference between .325 and 3/8 chain?
The primary difference between. 325 and 3/8 chain is their sizes. The. 325 chain has a 1/4 inch smaller cutting head compared to 3/8 inch for the 3/8 chain. The. 325 chain for chainsaws with a smaller engine size are often used. The.
325 chain is a better option for lighter cutting tasks, as it requires less power, while 3/8 chain is better suited for larger cutting tasks.
The. 325 chain also features a higher tooth count than the 3/8 chain, which helps provide cleaner cuts, while the 3/8 chain has a lower tooth count which is better able to cut through thicker material. The.
325 chain also tends to wear out faster than the 3/8 chain, due to having more teeth.
That said, there are actually a range of different sizes available in both the 3/8 and. 325 chains. In general, the 3/8 will be larger in size than the. 325, with a higher number of link lengths for each chain.
In terms of performance,. 325 chains are usually faster cutting than 3/8 chains, but also more prone to wear and breakage. In addition, the 3/8 chain is better for heavy-duty work and is often more cost-effective.
It all comes down to the application for which you need the chain and the type of job you are tackling.
How do I know what pitch my chainsaw chain is?
To determine what pitch your chainsaw chain is, you will need to look at the stamped number on the drive link that connects the individual chain loops. This number designates the pitch of the chain and can usually be found on the side opposite of the cutting teeth.
This number may be represented as a fraction, a decimal number, or a proportional number. For example, a stamped number of 3/8″ corresponds to a 3/8-inch pitch, a decimal number such as 0.404 corresponds to a 4/10-inch pitch, and a number such as 18 corresponds to a 1/4-inch pitch.
Additionally, numbers such as 91 and 95 represent a. 325-inch, 1/4-inch low-profile pitch, respectively.
It is important to note that different manufacturers may designate pitches differently, so it is best to look up the information in the manual or on the manufacturer’s website for your saw. Additionally, it is also important to note that different saws use different-sized chains, so make sure to verify the size of your saw chain before purchasing a replacement.
What size file do you use on a 3/8 chain?
For a 3/8 chain, the appropriate file size depends on the chain’s gauge. A 3/8 chain typically refers to the link group size and is usually a. 050 or. 058 gauge. For a. 050 gauge chain, the file size should be 5/32″, while a.
058 gauge chain should use a 3/16″ file. Generally, the larger the gauge number, the smaller the file size. This means that as the 3/8 chain size increases, the file size decreases. It is important to determine the gauge of the chain before using a file as using the wrong size can damage the chain.
Additionally, a chainsaw file guide should be used when filing a chain to ensure the correct angle and depth are maintained.
How often should you sharpen chainsaw blade?
Chainsaw blades should be sharpened as often as necessary in order to keep them in good working condition. Generally, it is recommended to sharpen the blade after every 8 to 10 hours of use depending on the type of cutting being done.
Also, it is important to inspect the chain for sharpness and signs of dullness before each use. If the blades seem to slip when cutting, it is likely time to sharpen the chain. Additionally, the blades may require more frequent sharpening if the wood is hard or if the chain is frequently used to make long cuts.
If left unchecked, a dull chain will reduce cutting performance and overall saw productivity. It is important to always use the correct file size when sharpening the chain in order to maintain the correct depth gauge settings which help to ensure optimal performance.
What angle should I sharpen my Stihl chainsaw chain?
The angle you should sharpen your Stihl chainsaw chain will depend on the type of chain you have, but generally speaking the recommended angle for most Stihl chainsaw chains is 25°. It is important to make sure the tooth angle is consistent throughout the chain, so check with a gauge during frequent sharpening intervals or when replacing the chain.
Additionally, if the saw is used mostly for ripping, then a deeper angle (30-35°) can be used to help keep the chain in the cut. Furthermore, make sure you are using the correct profiling file (the size and shape will depend on the type of chain you have) and they must not be overused as they will quickly become blunt and lose their cutting edge.
Lastly, make sure to lubricate the chain while cutting, as this will help to reduce friction and wear on the cutting teeth.
What is low profile chainsaw chain?
Low profile chainsaw chain is a type of chain that is designed to offer aggressive cutting performance and redued kickback at the same time. It has a low profile depth gauge, which is designed to cut deeper with each pass, as well as reduced kerf (the width of the cut) and tension.
This type of chain is capable of making very smooth cuts with very little kickback and is ideal for working in tight spaces, where kickback could be a potential hazard. This type of chain is also more efficient, as more of the chain remains in contact with the wood, allowing more of the power to be used for cutting rather than wasted heat.
Low profile chainsaws are commonly used on chainsaws with smaller engines and can be used to cut small to medium size logs.
What type of chainsaw chain cuts the fastest?
The type of chainsaw chain that cuts the fastest is determined by several factors, such as the chain design, the number of teeth, the chain speed, and the chain sharpness. Chainsaw chains with narrow-kerf cutting systems, such as the Oregon PowerSharp system, tend to be the fastest cutting.
The narrower cutting chain reduces the amount of friction generated when cutting, allowing the chain to move through the wood more quickly. Additionally, the number of teeth on the chain can affect the cutting speed.
Chains with more teeth have smoother cuts, but can also cause resistance, resulting in slower cutting speeds. Lastly, the chain speed and sharpness are also important. High chain speeds and sharp chains will provide the most efficient cutting power, allowing for faster cuts.
All of these factors should be taken into consideration when choosing the best chain for the job.
What makes a chainsaw chain low kickback?
A chainsaw chain with a low kickback feature is designed to reduce the risk of kickback when operating a chainsaw. Kickback is a dangerous reaction that occurs when the chainsaw chain is suddenly forced away from its intended cutting path, which can cause serious injury.
Chainsaw chains with a low kickback feature are specifically designed to reduce the chances of kickback by reducing the speed at which the chain moves and by reducing its potential for deflection. Low kickback chains also employ specially designed cutting teeth with angled edges and centripetal rakers that reduce the chance of kickback.
Additionally, many low kickback chains feature a guard on the side of the bar that helps restrain the top surface of the chain where kickback is most likely to occur. As a general rule, chains with a low kickback feature should be used whenever possible when operating a chainsaw.
By following this precaution, operators can greatly reduce the risk of kickback, and the associated injury, when working with a chainsaw.
What chainsaw chains do professional loggers use?
Professional loggers will typically use either a full-competition-chisel or a full-skip-tooth chain. Full-competition-chisel chains feature round-ground cutters, which cut quickly and efficiently with minimal kickback, while full-skip-tooth chains feature sharp, square-ground cutters that cut more deeply and leave a smoother cut.
Both types of chains are designed for use with professional-grade chainsaws that can handle the higher cutting speeds and more aggressive cutting power that the heavier duty chains require. Loggers may also opt for a semi-chisel or low-profile chains, which are designed for lighter-duty applications and consequently have lower cutting speeds.
Ultimately, the type of chainsaw chain used by a professional logger will depend upon the cutting job and the specific saw being used.
How do you read a chainsaw chain number?
Reading a chainsaw chain number typically requires looking at the markings on the side of the chain. Depending on the brand and model of your chainsaw, the markings and information contained on the chain can vary.
However, in general, the side of the chain will feature the following information, starting with the most common type of chainsaw chain:
• Pitch: Pitch is the distance between three consecutive rivets divided by two. This distance is typically expressed in inches; for example, .325 or 3/8 of an inch.
• Gauge: Gauge refers to the thickness of the drive link, which holds the cutters in place. It is usually expressed in thousandths of an inch, or millimeters.
• Number of Drive Links: The number of drive links is the total number of links in the chain and will typically be stamped on the chain itself.
• Number of Cutters: This is the total number of cutters in your chain and will also be stamped on the chain.
• Cutter Shape: The shape of the cutter is usually expressed as a letter, such as round, semi-chisel, full-skip or full chisel.
By examining the chainsaw chain for this information, you can determine the chain’s type, size, and its compatibility with your particular chainsaw. It is important to make sure you choose the correct chain for your chainsaw, as using the wrong type can greatly reduce the chainsaw’s performance and even cause damage.
How do you work out the length of a chain?
To work out the length of a chain, the most accurate way is to lay the chain onto a flat surface, preferably one with a straight edge, and measure the entire length with a ruler or a measuring tape. Alternatively, you can use a flexible measuring tape, which can be wrapped around the chain and then uncoiled to give a length measurement.
You can also measure the length of the chain by counting the number of full links and partial links, and then multiplying the number of full links by the length of each link. This method gives you a fairly accurate result, but does require you to know the length of each individual link.
What chainsaw pitch is best?
When it comes to selecting the best chainsaw pitch, it will depend on what you are cutting and the thickness of the wood. Generally, for light cutting, a narrow pitch is better, such as. 043”,. 058”,.063”, or.
076”. If you are dealing with tougher wood, like oak or maple, a longer pitch, such as. 087”,. 102”,. 127”,. 158” may be needed. Additionally, the chain speed of the saw, the capacity and torque of the motor, and your personal preference will also determine the best pitch.
It is important to note that a higher pitch will require higher chain resistance. Therefore, the saw needs to be powerful enough to cope with the pressure, otherwise it can lead to failure or jamming.
Additionally, using a long-pitch chain on a saw that is not made to handle such stress could cause damage to the motor and/or chain. Therefore, it is important to select the right size, speed, and pitch for the job.
Finally, when it comes to finding the best chainsaw pitch, it is advisable to consult your chainsaw’s manual or speak to a local saw dealer for the best advice.
Are all 18 inch chainsaw chains the same?
No, all 18 inch chainsaw chains are not the same. Different chainsaw models, brands, and even sizes require specific chains that are made to provide optimum performance. Additionally, chainsaws often require specialized oil, lubrication, and sometimes a combination of both to keep the chain running smoothly.
Different chainsaw manufacturers have different types of chains designed to work with their particular saws.
How many drive links in a 16 inch chain?
In a 16-inch chain, there are typically 80 drive links. Drive links are the metal links with the special ramped shape on them. This special shape helps guide the chain around the drive sprocket or jackshaft, which helps keep the chain turning smoothly.
The number of drive links in a given chain will vary depending on the manufacturer, so it’s important to look at the specs or instruction manual for the precise number of your particular chain. Additionally, you should always make sure that the number of drive links you purchase match the number of drive links you need to ensure a proper fit and precise performance.
Does it matter how many drive links are on a chainsaw chain?
Yes, the number of drive links on a chainsaw chain can affect the performance and efficiency of the chainsaw. Each drive link acts like a cog and engages with the drive sprocket on the saw’s engine to power the chain.
If the number of drive links is too low, the chain will slip and the saw will struggle to cut efficiently. On the other hand, if the number of drive links is too high, the saw’s cutting power will be reduced and the bar may start to vibrate.
The ideal number of drive links is usually the same as the number of grooves on the drive sprocket. It’s important to make sure the chain is sized correctly so that the same number of drive links fit into all the grooves on the drive sprocket.
To find the correct number of drive links for your chain saw, consult your owner’s manual or the manufacturer’s website.