Chainsaws are a highly effective and efficient tool for pruning and cutting trees. To get the maximum work out of them, you need to have all the right and compatible components. One of the essential but prime components is its chainsaw bar. First, we’ll need to understand what this bar is and how to measure a chainsaw bar.
In addition to that, if you left it ill-fitted or use the wrong bar, the results will be quite disastrous. Not every chain or bar is compatible and fit for every saw. A larger saw takes more power. You also need a larger chainsaw bar for that purpose. That’s the reason electric saw operators should always use a bar with 18’’ length or shorter than that. If you want to replace a bar or a chain on the chainsaw, you might find all the instructions and measurements in the user manual. But what if you lost the manual or you are now working outside and can’t access it?
Don’t Fret! Even if you are not willing to look upon the manufacturer’s website, we are here for the rescue. You can measure the length of your bar and chain to determine which replacement parts are further needed.
How to Measure a Chainsaw Bar
Steps to Measure Chain of Chainsaw
If you want to determine the length of the chain, you must know the following attributes: Drive links, pitch, and gauge. If you are confused about these terms, we have already covered them above.
1.Count Drive Links: First and foremost, count all the number of drive links along the entire chain length. This can be done easily by putting a chain over your worktable and careful counting. Add up all the drive links and record it. You’ll need this measurement during your final chain length determination.
2.Determine the pitch: Pitch measurement can be achieved by dividing the sum of the distance between any three rivets. It is very easy to do, and you need no special equipment except a general measuring tape. To calculate via an easy formula, the following expression can be noted.
Pitch of chain = (distance between 3 rivets) / 2
Finally, remember this number as well. Now let’s move towards the third and final step.
3.Measuring the Gauge: The width of the groove in your sidebar is a chainsaw gauge. The best and easiest method to determine gauge is via Coin Technique.
Why measuring the chainsaw bar is important and needed?
It can seem easy to measure bar and chain length at first. But with a wide variety of brands, types, and sizes, you should always work according to your chainsaw specs. Chainsaws can last pretty much longer than traditional manual saws if you take their proper care. Whether your machine is corded, gas-powered, or battery-powered, chains and bars can wear out with time. Another possible reason is sometimes you may need to fit the smaller or larger bar. In that case, you should know the size to make it easier for you while trying to buy a replacement for it.
The Four Important Attributes:
To focus on your chainsaw bar and chain measurement, you must be familiar with these:
1.Cutting Length: The actual length that is being used during the saw operation is cutting length. This is the area from the tip of the chainsaw nose to the point where the chainsaw body joins the bar.
2.Pitch: You can find the pitch by measuring the area between three rivet’s centers and divide it by 2. Pitch plays an important role in precise and accurate cutting.
3.Gauge: The gauge can be found by measuring the drive section that fits into the guide bar. The width of the groove from where the drive section is inserted is known as a chain gauge.
4.Tooth count: These are the drive links on the chainsaw chain. They resemble shark teeth. Their distance is associated with normal to aggressive cutting settings.
Measurement Procedure for Chainsaw Bar Length
- Personal safety is your number one priority. To prevent accidental startups, always make sure that your device is switched off. If you recently work with your machines, place it on the table and let it cool down. A heated chainsaw can burn your fingers when you try to approach its engine.
- The next step you need to do is just put your chainsaw on a flat surface like on your workbench. Before you go on to the next step, you’ll need a measuring tape to proceed with the measurements.
- Place your measuring tape on the tip of the saw blade to where the bar exits the main machine housing. The distance from the tip of the bar to the main unit is cutting length.
Some important points:
- You should get in mind that your measured length is not the actual bar length. To get the full bar length, detach your bar from the main motor unit.
- To get an accurate reading, always round off to the nearest whole figures. For instance, if the measured length is 18 ¾’’ (inches) then you round it up to 18 inches.
The Coin Method of Determining the Gauge:
It is the easiest measuring tactic to approximate the chain gauge. All you need is a quarter, dime, or a penny on your worktable. Just place the guide bar in front and place these coins in between the grooves until one of the coins fits in. Be sure to clean the debris between the grooves of the bar. The coin that is easily snugged in the groove gives you an approximation of a chain gauge. Below is the representation of coins concerning gauge.
Quarter = 0.063 gauge
Penny = 0.058 gauge
Dime = 0.050 gauge
Finally to compute chain saw the length
Chainsaw chain length = Drive links + Gauge + Pitch
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the ideal length of the chainsaw bar?
One great tip to determine bar size is you should make sure that its length is 2 inches more than your cutting wood. Besides, an ideal length entirely depends on the project requirements and type of material.
When should I get a chain replacement?
If your chain is rattling or has missing chain links, it’s time to replace the chain. One notable sign is your saw only cuts in a unidirectional fashion.
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Conclusion:
Now you got the idea of how to measure the chainsaw bar using the easiest way. In the real sense, all you have to know is the gauge, tooth count, and pitch and you can easily measure the bar. You don’t need any special tools besides a regular measuring tape. You can also read about the Reviews of the lapidary saw.