an use this number to help you replace worn parts. Now, count the number of drive links, or lugs, that make up the chain. These are the units that make up the chain and attach to the cog.
Next, define the pitch by measuring the distance between three of the circular rivets and dividing it by two. The chain should have the same pitch as the nose socket. By adding the pitch to the number of drive links, you’ll be able to figure out the measurement of your chainsaw chain.
Poorly fitted chainsaws are incredibly dangerous. For this reason, many people have them professionally serviced when it comes time to replace a part. Nevertheless, measuring your chainsaw is not difficult if you follow the aforementioned directions.
Plus, now that you know what size chainsaw bar you have, you can ensure you are using it for suitable tasks. For example, 16 to 18-inch bars are ideal for light work such as tree trimming and pruning.
Meanwhile, 20 to 24-inch bars can be used to fell mature trees and harvest large amounts of firewood.
See the graph below for a better understanding of bar measurements and their best applications.
|Pruning Trees||Limb Removal||Tree Felling||Firewood Harvest|
|8 to 16 inch||Prefered||Suitable||Not Suitable||Not Suitable|
|16 to 18 inch||Prefered||Suitable||Suitable||Not Suitable|
|18 to 20 inch||Suitable||Prefered||Prefered||Suitable|
|20 to 24 inch||Not Suitable||Suitable||Suitable||Prefered|
Some manufacturers incorporate the length into the model number of their chainsaws. For example, STIHL incorporates a five digit code that corresponds to pitch, gauge, cutter type, cutter shape, and any applicable special details. Meanwhile, companies like Dayton and Dolmar/Sachs do not tell you directly.
Therefore, you must reference the owner’s manual or perform the necessary tasks to get an accurate measurement.
For example, if you own a German-made STIHL with a chain that reads 33 RS3, you can use this marketing number to determine all the characteristics of the chain. The first three means it has a pitch of 3/8 of an inch. Meanwhile, the second 3 identifies the drive gauge as having a length of 1.3 millimeters.
Alternatively, companies like Husqvarna provide an online database of user manuals that allows you to reference part numbers.
Bars can last for several years. Replacing them is expensive and labor intensive, so many people have their chains professionally serviced when it’s time to replace a worn or broken part. It is important to note that chains that are bent or loose can often be repaired rather than replaced.
Power tools can become a liability if they are not properly maintained and cared for. Likewise, you should never work on or attempt to repair a power tool without the proper knowledge.
Moreover, you should always use safety gear, such as gloves, eye protection, and quality chainsaw chaps to ensure that you are well-protected. If you have any questions or concerns, contact the manufacturer or a local repair professional.
If you frequently use a chainsaw, learning how to measure the bar is an essential skill. Fortunately, this task only needs to be performed once. Once you have that information you can easily purchase replacement parts.
With that being said, investing in a quality saw and properly maintaining it can extend the life of your tools and save you money. Nevertheless, if you do need to buy replacement parts, you now have the know-how to do so.