Why Measuring Chain Saw Bar is Important
Before we dive into how to measure chain saw bar, let’s understand why it’s important. As we mentioned earlier, the chain saw bar is the most crucial part of the chainsaw that guides the chain through the wood. If the bar is too long or too short, it can affect the performance of the chainsaw. A bar that is too long can cause the chainsaw to kick back, which can be dangerous. On the other hand, a bar that is too short can cause the chainsaw to bind, which can damage the chainsaw. Therefore, measuring chain saw bar correctly is essential.
Tools Needed to Measure Chain Saw Bar
To measure chain saw bar, you will need a few tools. These tools include a tape measure, a ruler, and a calculator. You may also need a pair of pliers to remove the chain saw bar if it’s attached to the chainsaw.
Steps to Measure Chain Saw Bar
Now that you have the tools, let’s move on to the steps to measure chain saw bar.
Step 1: Remove the Chain Saw Bar
The first step to measure chain saw bar is to remove the chain saw bar if it’s attached to the chainsaw. To do this, use the pliers to loosen the nuts that hold the bar in place. Once the nuts are loose, remove the bar from the chainsaw.
Step 2: Measure the Length of the Bar
The next step is to measure the length of the bar. To do this, place the bar on a flat surface and use the tape measure or ruler to measure the length of the bar from one end to the other. Make sure to measure the entire length of the bar, including the part that goes into the chainsaw.
Step 3: Measure the Distance Between the Chain Bar Mounting Holes
The third step is to measure the distance between the chain bar mounting holes. To do this, measure the distance between the center of one mounting hole to the center of the other mounting hole. Make sure to measure the distance accurately to get the correct measurement.
Step 4: Calculate the Gauge of the Chain
The next step is to calculate the gauge of the chain. The gauge is the thickness of the drive links on the chain. To calculate the gauge, measure the thickness of the drive links on the chain and divide it by two. The result will be the gauge of the chain.
Step 5: Choose the Right Size Bar
Once you have the measurements, it’s time to choose the right size bar for your chainsaw. To do this, refer to the owner’s manual of your chainsaw. The manual will have a chart that lists the recommended bar sizes for your chainsaw based on its horsepower and other specifications. Choose the bar size that matches the measurements you took earlier.
FAQ
Here are some frequently asked questions related to how to measure chain saw bar.
Q: Can I use a longer or shorter bar than recommended?
A: No, it’s not recommended to use a longer or shorter bar than recommended for your chainsaw. Using the wrong size bar can cause safety issues, poor performance, and damage to your chainsaw.
Q: How often should I measure my chain saw bar?
A: It’s recommended to measure your chain saw bar before each use to ensure it’s the right size for your chainsaw.
Q: Can I measure the chain saw bar while it’s attached to the chainsaw?
A: No, it’s not recommended to measure the chain saw bar while it’s attached to the chainsaw. It’s best to remove the bar to get an accurate measurement.
Conclusion
Measuring chain saw bar is a crucial step in maintaining your chainsaw. It ensures that you’re using the right size bar for your chainsaw, which can affect the performance and safety of your chainsaw. By following the steps we outlined in this article, you can measure your chain saw bar correctly and choose the right size bar for your chainsaw.