How to Measure a Chainsaw Bar: An Easy Guide for Everyone

Introduction

Hey there, friends! Ever found yourself staring at your chainsaw, wondering how to measure that darn bar? Maybe you’re planning to buy a new chain or just want to get to know your trusty tool better. Whatever the reason, measuring a chainsaw bar can seem a bit tricky if you’re not familiar with it. But don’t worry! We’re here to make it as simple as pie. Let’s dive into the world of chainsaw bars and uncover the secrets of getting those measurements right.

Why Measure a Chainsaw Bar?

Before we get into the nitty-gritty of measuring, let’s talk about why you’d even want to measure your chainsaw bar in the first place. Knowing the size of your chainsaw bar is essential for a few reasons:

Correct Chain Replacement: When it’s time to replace the chain, you need to know the bar size to get the right fit.
Optimal Performance: Using the right chain for your bar ensures that your chainsaw runs smoothly and efficiently.
Safety: An ill-fitting chain can be dangerous and can cause accidents.
Maintenance: Regularly checking your bar size helps in maintaining the chainsaw in good working condition.

Tools You’ll Need

Measuring a chainsaw bar isn’t rocket science, but having the right tools makes the job easier. Here’s what you’ll need:

A tape measure or ruler
A flat surface to lay your chainsaw on
A pen and paper (if you want to jot down measurements)

Step-by-Step Guide to Measuring Your Chainsaw Bar

Alright, let’s get down to business. Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have your chainsaw bar measurement in no time.

Step 1: Prepare Your Chainsaw

First things first, make sure your chainsaw is turned off and cooled down. Safety is always a priority, so ensure it’s not connected to any power source. Lay your chainsaw on a flat surface to prevent it from moving around while you measure.

Step 2: Locate the Bar

The bar is the long, flat metal piece that the chain runs around. It extends from the motor housing and guides the chain as it cuts through wood.

Step 3: Measure the Bar

Now, here’s the main event: measuring the bar. You want to measure the bar from the base where it connects to the motor housing to the tip of the bar. This is known as the “cutting length” or “effective length.”

Place the end of your tape measure or ruler at the base of the bar, just before it enters the motor housing. Stretch the tape measure along the bar until you reach the tip. Record the measurement in inches. This length is typically what’s referred to when discussing bar size, like a 16-inch or 20-inch bar.

Step 4: Measure the Total Length

For a comprehensive understanding of your chainsaw bar, you might also want to measure the total length. This includes the part of the bar that is inside the chainsaw housing. To do this, remove the chainsaw casing to expose the entire bar. Measure from the very end of the bar inside the housing to the tip. This measurement gives you the total bar length.

Common Chainsaw Bar Sizes

Chainsaw bars come in various sizes, each suitable for different tasks. Here are some common bar sizes and their typical uses:

12-14 inches: Ideal for light cutting and trimming jobs around the yard.
16-18 inches: Great for medium-duty cutting, like felling small trees and cutting firewood.
20 inches and above: Used for heavy-duty tasks, such as felling large trees and cutting thick logs.

Tips for Maintaining Your Chainsaw Bar

Measuring your bar is just one part of maintaining your chainsaw. Here are some handy tips to keep your chainsaw bar in top shape:

Regular Cleaning: Remove debris and sawdust from the bar after each use.
Check for Wear and Tear: Inspect the bar for any signs of wear, such as cracks or bends.
Proper Storage: Store your chainsaw in a dry place to prevent rust and corrosion.
Lubrication: Ensure the bar is well-lubricated to reduce friction and extend its lifespan.

Frequently Asked Questions

Now that we’ve covered the basics, let’s address some common questions people have about chainsaw bars. These are the top questions searched on Google, complete with detailed answers to help you out.

How do I know what size chainsaw chain I need? To determine the correct chain size, you need three measurements: the pitch, gauge, and the number of drive links. The pitch is the distance between the drive links, the gauge is the width of the drive link, and the number of drive links is the total links in the chain. This information is usually found in the chainsaw’s manual or on the bar itself.
Can I put a longer bar on my chainsaw? Yes, but it depends on the power of your chainsaw. Larger bars require more power to drive the chain effectively. Check your chainsaw’s specifications to see the maximum bar length it can handle.
How do I measure the pitch of a chainsaw chain? To measure the pitch, measure the distance between three consecutive rivets on the chain and divide by two. The result is the pitch size.
What is the gauge on a chainsaw bar? The gauge refers to the thickness of the drive links that fit into the bar groove. Common gauges are .050”, .058”, and .063”.
Why does my chainsaw chain keep coming off? A chain can come off for several reasons: incorrect tension, a worn-out bar, or a damaged sprocket. Regularly check and adjust the chain tension and inspect the bar and sprocket for wear.
How do I tighten a chainsaw chain? Locate the tension adjustment screw on the side of the chainsaw. Loosen the nuts holding the bar, adjust the tension screw to achieve the desired tension, and then retighten the nuts.
What causes a chainsaw bar to wear out? Common causes include lack of lubrication, improper chain tension, and cutting dirty or gritty wood. Regular maintenance can prolong the life of the bar.
How often should I sharpen my chainsaw chain? It depends on usage. For frequent use, you might need to sharpen the chain every few hours of operation. Look for signs like fine sawdust instead of wood chips, or if the saw requires more pressure to cut.
Can I use a chainsaw in the rain? It’s not recommended. Wet conditions can make the chainsaw slippery and more dangerous to handle. Additionally, water can damage the motor and electrical components.
What’s the difference between a full chisel and a semi-chisel chain? Full chisel chains have square-cornered teeth that cut quickly but dull faster. Semi-chisel chains have rounded-corner teeth that stay sharp longer but cut slower.
How do I clean a chainsaw bar? Remove the chain and clean the bar using a brush or compressed air to remove debris. You can also use a degreaser to clean any built-up oil or sap.
What type of oil should I use for a chainsaw bar? Use bar and chain oil specifically designed for chainsaws. It’s formulated to adhere to the bar and chain, providing necessary lubrication.
Why is my chainsaw smoking? Smoking can be caused by a dull chain, improper oil mix, or debris buildup in the bar. Ensure the chain is sharp, use the correct oil mix, and keep the bar clean.
How do I know if my chainsaw chain is too tight? A too-tight chain will not move freely around the bar. It should have a little slack but should still snap back into place when pulled.
Can I use any chain on my chainsaw? No, chains are specific to the bar size and type. Always use the chain recommended by the manufacturer or one that matches the bar’s specifications.
How do I prevent my chainsaw chain from rusting? After use, clean the chain and bar, then apply a light coat of oil to prevent rust. Store your chainsaw in a dry place.
Why is my chainsaw not cutting straight? A chainsaw not cutting straight can be due to an unevenly sharpened chain, a worn bar, or improper chain tension. Check and correct these issues to ensure straight cuts.
How do I replace a chainsaw bar? Remove the chain and the old bar. Place the new bar in the correct position, reattach the chain, and adjust the tension.
What’s the difference between a chainsaw bar and a chainsaw blade? The bar is the metal guide that supports the chain, while the chain (sometimes referred to as the blade) is the cutting part that wraps around the bar.
How long should a chainsaw bar last? With proper maintenance, a chainsaw bar can last several years. Regularly check for wear and keep it clean and well-lubricated to extend its lifespan.

There you have it, folks! Measuring a chainsaw bar doesn’t have to be a daunting task. With this guide, you can confidently measure, maintain, and understand your chainsaw better. Happy cutting, and stay safe out there!