Replacing a chainsaw chain is often necessary for home users. But do you know how to measure chainsaw bar and chain? Well, this is one of the most common queries from the user-end globally. Unless you know the right measure, you cannot replace the chainsaw bar or chain.
So, you have to get the exact measurement. The process is simple too. Instead of compiling the process together, they are separately explained. The readers would feel a sense of relief after going through the last portion of the texts here.
Part-1: Chainsaw Chain Measurement
To replace a chainsaw chain, the first thing is to measure the chain. The chain replacement is easy and straightforward. Remember to follow the safety measures before you start the procedure. There are several ways to measure a chainsaw chain.
What Do You Need To Know?
To replace the chainsaw bar and chain, you have to know certain information. To replace a chain, you have to see the pitch number, driver link number, and gauge measurement. The pitch is counted from the distance of any three rivets on a chainsaw chain. There are generally three types of pitch sizes available. For the 3/8 old profile chain, the measurement is 0.325.
The other information is to know the driver links. You can count the driver links by placing the chain on a table. Align the chain and count the driver links. The gauge refers to the thickness of a driver link. Using a dial caliper, the users can have the right measure of the gauge.
How To Measure The Chain?
At first, you have to measure the distance between the rivets on the chain. Experts suggest considering three consecutive rivets. Get the measurement from the center of the first rivet to the third consecutive one. Now, divide the measurement result by two. You will get the right length.
You can get the complete chain length by the measurement of the pitch and the driver number. The summation of the numbers will provide the length. When seeking a chain, the measures will determine which one to get.
In addition, chainsaw-related following topics discussed with a brief guide below that might be helpful for a beginner chainsaw user or a newbie who wants to use a chainsaw the first time.
Let’s have a look:
- How Tight Should A Chainsaw Chain Be? | Factors and Fixes
- How to Clean a Chainsaw | Complete Guidelines for Newbies
- How To Start A Chainsaw | The Basics To Explore
- What Size Chainsaw Do I Need? | Buying Guide For Beginner’s
Part-2: Chainsaw Bar Measurement
Measuring the chainsaw bar is also easy. You will need the following things.
- A measurement tape (steel-made)
- A chainsaw with bar
The Process Of Chainsaw Bar Measurement
Now, bring out the chainsaw bar. Measure the bar from head to toe using the measurement tape. You will get the perfect idea about the bar length. You can do it by keeping the chainsaw bar inside the machine. Or you can detach the bar too to have the perfect measurement.
When To Replace Chainsaw Bar and Chain?
Generally, chainsaws are used for multifarious reasons. They need frequent maintenance. As part of the maintenance, the users are to replace the bar and the chain as well. But you may also ask – what is the perfect time of replacing the bar and the chain?
The answers are below:
Time To Change The Chainsaw Chain
- Broken Teeth
If you see the chain teeth are broken. In this case, this is not possible to cut something. Even, you may not cut a sheet of paper using the chain. In such a case, you have to replace the teeth.
- Issues With Chain Tension
Besides, there might be issues with the chain tension. Despite tightening the chain, it will turn to lose. At times, the chain may pull out automatically. It happens for extensive use of the chainsaw.
- Imbalance While Cutting
Simultaneously, you will feel a sense of imbalance while cutting woods. The natural feel will be absent. And in such points, you have to replace the chainsaw chain.
When To Replace The Chainsaw Bar?
- Lengthy Operation
If the chainsaw takes double time to cut something points that it needs the bar replacement. Despite the chain’s sharpness, the users cannot reduce the chopping time. So, this is an indicator of chainsaw bar replacement.
- Unnecessary Movement
When you check the chain tension, there would be some unwanted movements. The chainsaw bar will try to reject the chain to get back in position. In such points, you have to replace the chainsaw bar.
- Shape Change
Besides, the natural shape of the chainsaw will change. The shape will appear like a V instead of a U shape. If you can notice the change, you must address the issues. Only replacement is the solution.
- Fails In Straight Edge Test
When you are checking the straight edge test, it will fail. There would be some gap with the measurement tape or ruler. The failure is the other indicator that points to change the chainsaw bar.
Safety Precautions
Replacing the chainsaw bar and chain is a dangerous job. The users need to be careful while replacing them. Some of the best safety tips are here. They will help you protect yourself from untoward injuries and incidents.
- Wear Protective Gear
The first issue is self-security. You need to wear protective gear like gloves, goggles, safety boots, etc.
- Switch Off The Chainsaw
Many of the users may keep it switched on unconsciously. Therefore, you need to check it.
- Using The Right Tool
It is the other safety precaution. If you do not use the right screwdrivers or tools to open it, there might be accidents causing severe injury.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Do I need to replace the chain every month?
No, you do not need to replace the chain every month. The chain decays based on the frequency of application. So, if you find the chain in a decaying state, replace it.
2. Is checking tension before bar replacement important?
Of course, you need to check the chain tension to know if the chainsaw bar is up to the mark or not.
3. How to select a chainsaw bar and chain for replacement?
After measuring the chainsaw chain and bar, you need to ask a retailer or supplier. They will provide you with the rightly measured chain and bar.
Last Words
Replacement of chainsaw chain and bar is not a big deal. You are now aware of how to measure chainsaw bar and chain. Thereby, be careful about the maintenance of this wood cutting gadget. Consequently, it will provide a durable service for years.
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