Chainsaws are powerful tools that are commonly used for cutting and shaping wood. However, like any other tool, chainsaws require regular maintenance to function at their best. One crucial aspect of chainsaw maintenance is measuring the chainsaw chain to ensure it is the correct size for the guide bar.
We will be covering how to measure the chainsaw chain quickly and accurately. Additionally, we will answer the question, “What kind of oil for a chainsaw?” to help you understand the importance of using the right oil for your chainsaw’s maintenance.
Measure the Chainsaw Chain
Measuring a chainsaw chain is a crucial task every chainsaw owner should know how to do. To measure a chainsaw chain accurately, you’ll need a tape measure or ruler, a pair of calipers, and the chainsaw chain you want to measure. Follow these steps to measure a chainsaw chain correctly:
Step 1: Determine the Chain Size The first step in measuring a chainsaw chain is to determine the chain size. You can usually find the chain size on the chainsaw bar or in the chainsaw’s user manual. The most common chain sizes are ¼ inch, ⅜ inch, and .325 inch. Make sure you know the correct chain size before measuring.
Step 2: Measure the Chain Length Next, measure the chain’s overall length by measuring from the chainsaw’s front to its rear. Ensure that the chain is off the chainsaw and fully extended when measuring.
Step 3: Measure the Distance between Links The next step is to measure the distance between the chainsaw chain’s links. This is the distance between the drive links or the cutting teeth on the chain.
Step 4: Count the Number of Drive Links. Finally, count the number of drive links on the chainsaw chain. Drive links are the links that fit into the chainsaw’s bar groove. To count the drive links, start from one end of the chain and count all the links until you reach the opposite end. Write down the number of drive links.
With these measurements, you can now purchase the correct replacement chain for your chainsaw. Before purchasing, check the user manual or the chainsaw bar for the correct chain size.
Measuring the Chain Manually
Measuring a chainsaw chain manually is a straightforward process that requires only a few tools. Measuring your chainsaw chain correctly ensures you purchase the correct replacement chain.
Follow these steps to measure the chain manually:
Step 1: Remove the Chain Before measuring the chain, remove it from the chainsaw. Ensure that the chainsaw is turned off and disconnected from any power source. Loosen the chain tensioner screw and remove the chain from the chainsaw’s guide bar.
Step 2: Determine the Chain Size Check the chainsaw bar or manual for the chain size. You should see a 3/8″ or .325″ code stamped on the bar. A 0.325″ chain will have a distance of 1.63mm between the rivets, while a 3/8″ chain will have a distance of 1.90mm.
Step 3: Measure the Chain’s Length Measure the chain’s length from one end to the other, excluding the rivets. Ensure that the chain is straight and not twisted or bent. Record the measurement.
Step 4: Measure the Distance between Links the distance between links is between the drive links or the cutting teeth on the chain. We suggest you use the Caliper to measure the gap between links. Measure the distance at the center of the link, and record the measurement.
Step 5: Count the Number of Drive Links Count the number of drive links on the chainsaw chain. Drive links are the links that fit into the chainsaw’s bar groove. Count from one end of the chain to the other and record the number.
Knowing the size of your chainsaw chain
Knowing the size of your chainsaw chain is essential when purchasing a replacement chain.
- Check the Chainsaw Manual or Bar: The easiest way to determine the size of your chainsaw chain is by checking the chainsaw manual or bar. The chain size should be listed in the manual or stamped on the chainsaw bar. Look for a code such as 3/8″ or .325″ on the bar.
- Measure the Distance between Rivets: Another way to determine the size of your chainsaw chain is by measuring the distance between the rivets. The rivets are the small, cylindrical parts that connect the links of the chain. A 0.325″ chain will have a distance of 1.63mm between the rivets, while a 3/8″ chain will have a distance of 1.90mm.
- Count the Drive Links: Count the number of drive links on the chain. Drive links are the links that fit into the chainsaw’s bar groove. Count from one end of the chain to the other and record the number. Multiply the number of drive links by the pitch, which is the distance between any three rivets on the chain. A 0.325″ chain has 78 drive links, while a 3/8″ chain has 72.
Measuring Your Chainsaw Bar
Measuring your chainsaw bar is essential in determining the correct size of the chainsaw chain you need to purchase. Here are the steps to measure your chainsaw bar:
Step 1: Remove the Chain. To measure your chainsaw bar:
- Remove the chain from the chainsaw.
- Turn off the chainsaw and disconnect it from any power source.
- Loosen the chain tensioner screw and remove the chain from the chainsaw’s guide bar.
Step 2: Measure the Length of the Bar the length of your chainsaw bar is measured from the tip of the bar to where it enters the chainsaw’s housing. Using the tape measure, you can measure the length in millimeters or inches.
Step 3: Measure the Distance between the Bar Mounting Holes. Next, measure the distance between the two mounting holes on the chainsaw bar. The mounting holes are the two small holes that attach the bar to the chainsaw housing.
Step 4: Measure the Groove Width. The groove on the chainsaw bar is where the chain sits. Measure the width of the groove using a caliper or ruler. Record the measurement.
With these measurements, you can now determine the correct size of the chainsaw chain you need to purchase. Remember to match the chain to the bar length, groove width, pitch, and distance between any three rivets on the chain. It’s crucial to have the correct size of the chainsaw chain for optimal performance and safety.
Look for Chain Measurements
To find the measurements of your chainsaw chain, you can look at various places, including:
- Chainsaw Manual: The chainsaw manual usually provides the chain measurements required. Check the section on chainsaw chains, which should list the necessary measurements, such as chain pitch and gauge.
- Chainsaw Bar: The chainsaw bar may also have the chain measurements stamped. Look for a code such as 3/8″ or .325″ on the bar, which indicates the chain pitch. The bar may also indicate the chain gauge.
- Chain Links: The chain links can also provide information about the chain measurements. Count the number of drive links, which are the links that fit into the chainsaw bar groove. The number of drive links, along with the pitch, can determine the length of the chain.
- Caliper: Use a caliper to measure the distance between two adjacent chain links. This measurement will give you the chain pitch, the distance between any three rivets on the chain. The Caliper can also measure the chain gauge, which is the thickness of the drive links.
By checking the chainsaw manual, bar, and chain links or using a caliper, you can find the necessary measurements for your chainsaw chain. Ensure that you have the correct measurements to purchase the proper replacement chain for your chainsaw.