The numbers on a chainsaw bar refer to the length of the bar. The numbers usually come first followed by the units (either inches or mm), for example: 16” or 400mm. The length of a chainsaw bar is a crucial factor in how well a chainsaw performs.
The longer the bar, the more power it has, but it also means that it is more difficult to maneuver. For typical home use, a 16” or 18” bar will be best, but for heavy-duty tasks, a larger bar might be necessary.
Furthermore, the size of the bar should match the size of the saw, i. e. a smaller saw needs a smaller bar while a large saw needs a larger bar. Lastly, when buying a chainsaw, make sure to use the right chain and bar to ensure optimal performance.
What does 3/8 mean on a chainsaw?
3/8” on a chainsaw refers to the width of the bar and chain that is used to cut through materials such as wood. A standard chainsaw bar and chain size ranges from ¼” to ¾” and the width of a 3/8” bar and chain is typically used for chainsaws with engine sizes between 28cc and 55cc.
Larger engines can use up to ¾” bars and chains, but the 3/8” size offers the most balance between cutting power and user comfort. For most general purpose cutting, the 3/8” bar and chain combination is recommended.
The size of a chainsaw bar and chain is important because it affects the depth of each cut and the amount of material that can be cut in a single pass. If the bar and chain is too small, the chainsaw will not be able to cut through larger pieces of material and the user would need to make multiple passes.
How do I know what size chain is on my chainsaw?
Figuring out the size of chain on your chainsaw isn’t as difficult as it may seem. The easiest way to determine what size chain is on your chainsaw is to look at the owner’s manual that came with the saw when it was purchased.
The owner’s manual will provide you with the specific model number for your chainsaw and the corresponding size of the chain for that particular model. Another way to find out what size chain is on a chainsaw is to check the inner diameter of the metal drive link.
To do this, use a ruler or a tape measure to measure the metal drive link. The chain pitch should also be marked on the chain itself, and any chain pitch size can be matched up with a certain chain size.
Depending on the brand of chainsaw, this can be on a sticker, a metal plate, or stamped into the body of the saw near the chain adjustment screws. If you have an older chainsaw and have lost the owner’s manual, you can contact the manufacturer directly to ask what size chain your chainsaw requires.
Finally, you can also visit a local hardware store to purchase a specific type of chain and then compare it to the one on the chainsaw to ensure it is the correct size.
How do you read a Stihl chain number?
Reading a Stihl chain number can be done by following a few simple steps. The first step is to locate the chain number. This can usually be found printed on the side of the guide bar or stamped into the drive link of the chain.
The next step is to decode what each of the numbers mean. The first number will indicate the pitch of the chain, which is the distance between drive links. The second number indicates the gauge of the chain, which is the width of the drive link.
The final number is the chain design or series number which indicates the combination of the pitch and gauge. Once you know the series number, you can use a Stihl chain chart to match the series number with the chain type (skip, chisel or semi-chisel).
After that you can use the chart to verify that the chain size is the correct one for your application.
How are Stihl bars measured?
Stihl bars are measured by their length, which is typically printed on one side of the bar (usually on the engine side) and ranges from 8-36 inches depending on the model of Stihl chainsaw. The length of the bar is also often printed on the sprocket cover.
The longer the bar, the more area that can be covered during a cutting operation. Additionally, the thickness, or gauge, of the bar can also vary based on the model of the chainsaw. The thickness of the bar has an effect on the tension of the chain on the bar, as smaller gauges require more tension than thicker bars.
Finally, Stihl bars are measured in a number of different pitches, ranging from 1/4” to 3/8” and 0.404”. Each pitch offers different advantages and disadvantages and is suited for certain chain types.
How big of a bar can I put on a Stihl MS 271?
The size of the bar you can use on a Stihl MS 271 will depend on the model you own. Generally, Stihl MS 271 chainsaws can use bars between 16-20 inches (40cm-50cm) in length. However, it is important to check your owner’s manual before you install a new bar to ensure you are using the correct size.
Using an incorrectly size bar can result in excessive wear and tear on the outer parts of the chainsaw as well as other safety risks. To check what size bar is correct for your Stihl MS 271, you can check the guide inside the bar scabbard for the correct bar size for your particular model.
What size bar can you put on a ms291?
The MS291 chain saw can accommodate a 20″ Bar and chain combination. This saw is powerful enough for a longer bar, but for safety reasons, a 20″ is the recommended size for optimal use. The MS291’s cutting power and reach make it an ideal saw for light and medium-duty cutting jobs.
For larger cutting tasks, other chain saws in the MS series may be more appropriate.
Can I put a different size bar on my chainsaw?
Yes, you can put a different size bar on your chainsaw. Be sure to select a bar size that fits your chainsaw. This can be done by measuring the length and width of the current bar and sprocket. Most bars are stamped with the length and width of the bar, however be sure to double-check with the manufacturer’s manual before purchasing a new bar.
When replacing the bar, be sure to inspect the guide bars regularly for any bends or damage, clean the drive sprocket, apply a light coat of oil to the cleaned sprocket, and ensure that all setting screws are tightened correctly.
Where is chainsaw bar length measured?
The length of a chainsaw bar is typically measured from the tip of the bar nose to the center of the bar where it mounts to the saw housing. The bar length is usually expressed in inches and is usually stamped into the side of the bar.
In most cases you will find a two or three digit number (15, 20, 24, 28, etc. ) that corresponds to the bar length. It’s important to remember that the chainsaw bar length does not necessarily relate to the chainsaw engine size, since the actual power of a chainsaw depends on a combination of factors, such as the engine size and the chain configuration.
How do you tell the difference between chainsaw chains?
The main way to tell the difference between chainsaw chains is to look at the three different aspects of the chain – its gauge, its pitch and its sequence. The gauge of a chainsaw chain refers to the thickness of the drive links that fit into the bar groove.
A larger gauge number signifies a thicker drive link, while a smaller gauge number signifies a thinner drive link. The pitch of the chain is the distance between three consecutive rivets divided by two, and is typically expressed in metric measurements.
The sequence of the chain is determined by the design of the chain links, which determines how easily the chain links will fit into the bar groove and how the chain cuts. Each chain saw chain model is designed for a particular type of wood and for specific cutting conditions, so understanding each of these features can help you determine the correct chain saw chain for your needs.
What size file do you use on a 3/8 chain?
A 3/8″ chain requires the use of a 3/8″ file size. Depending on the condition and brand of the chain, a depth-gauge tool may be needed to determine the exact file size prior to filing. The general rule of thumb is that the depth-gauge size needs to be smaller than the file size.
Be sure to always use the same file size for all the links in the chain. Using a file size that is too large can cause the chain to not symchronise properly and can cause performance issues. Additionally, if you do use the wrong file size, you may have difficulty fitting the drive links back into the chain.
When using a file to sharpen the chain, it is important to hold the file at a consistent angle and use a firm stroke to remove the chips. Starting at one side of the tooth, move the file slightly outward while filing in one direction.
File in a single direction until the saw is sharp and then move to the next tooth. Avoid filing more than necessary as this can cause the chain to be too sharp and become brittle. After sharpening, be sure to inspect the saw for any damage or wear and replace or repair any necessary components.