How do I know what chain fits my chainsaw?

Picking the right saw chain for your chainsaw is extremely important for performance and safety. The chain connects to the engine and allows you to cut through wood. If you select the wrong size or style of chain, it can damage your saw or be dangerous to operate. Luckily, determining the proper chain for your specific model of chainsaw is straightforward. You just need to know the basic terminology, where to locate the key measurements, and how to decode the chain markings. With a little guidance, you’ll be able to select compatible, high-quality chains for optimal and safe operation.

What are the components of a chainsaw chain?

Chainsaw chains are made up of repeating links that include the cutters and rivets holding them together. Here are the key components:

Cutters – The cutters are the teeth that actually cut into the wood. They are mounted on the top side of the chain.

Tie straps – The tie straps connect the cutters together and are located underneath.

Drive links – The drive links attach to the chainsaw sprocket and power the chain around the bar. They have a bumped shape without cutters.

Rivets – Rivets hold all the links together so the chain is flexible but doesn’t fall apart.

Cutter types

The cutters come in three main types:

– Chisel – A basic flat top design that is all-purpose. Good balance of speed and durability.

– Semi-chisel – With a semi-rounded top for faster cuts but slightly less durability.

– Chipper – Designed for clearing brush and small limbs. Aggressive cutting with lowest durability.

What measurements are needed?

To match a chain to your chainsaw, you need three key measurements:

1. Chain pitch – The spacing in inches between any three rivets. Measured in inches, common sizes are 3/8″, .325″, and .404″.

2. Gauge – The thickness of the drive links, which affects durability. Measure in millimeters or thousandths of an inch. Common gauges are .050″, .058″, and .063″.

3. Bar length – The length of the chainsaw bar in inches. Chain loops must match in order to fit correctly around the bar.

Finding these measurements is quick and easy. First check your operator’s manual or on the outside of the chainsaw. You should see the pitch, gauge, and maximum bar length marked. You can also measure the pitch yourself by using a ruler.

How to read chain markings

Chainsaw chains will be marked with a sequence of numbers and letters indicating their specifications. Here is how to interpret them:

Chain pitch – The first number is the pitch in inches, like .325 or 3/8.

Gauge – Second is the gauge in thousandths of an inch, like 50 for .050″.

Cutter type – Next will be a letter for cutter types, like C for chisel.

Drive link count – Finally is a number for drive links, which must match your bar length.

For example, a chain marked “325 – 50 – C – 52” is a .325-inch pitch, .050 gauge chisel chain with 52 drive links.

You can also find the part number, which can be referenced when ordering replacements.

Selecting the proper chain length

Chainsaw chains are sold in loop lengths to fit specific bar lengths. Make sure to get a chain that is long enough to run fully around your guide bar with both ends fitting into the sprocket cover.

Here are some general length guidelines:

• 10” bars need 30-35 drive links
• 12” bars need 35-40 drive links
• 14” bars need 40-45 drive links
• 16” bars need 45-52 drive links
• 18” bars need 52-56 drive links
• 20” bars need 56-60 drive links

Refer to your operator’s manual for the ideal loop length. Chains stretch over time, so err on the side of one extra drive link to allow for adjustment.

Compatibility with your chainsaw

While many chains are designed to be universal, some chainsaw brands have proprietary mounting systems. Make sure any replacement chain states that it will fit your specific saw’s mount style before purchasing.

The most common mounting styles are:

• Oregon style – Used by many brands including Craftsman, Poulan, Homelite
• Husqvarna H30 – For Husqvarna saws
• Stihl – For Stihl chainsaws
• Echo – For Echo brand saws

Again, check for compatibility with your exact chainsaw model before selecting a chain.

Why does getting the right chain matter?

Getting a chain with the proper pitch, gauge, length, and mount style is crucial for three key reasons:

Performance

A correctly sized chain will seat into the bar groove smoothly and receive maximum power from the engine. The wrong chain can be loose or tight on the bar, reducing cutting speed and ability.

Safety

An incompatible chain can derail from the bar, posing serious injury risks. With excessive vibration or slack, chains can also break faster. Proper chain selection enhances safety for the operator.

Avoiding damage

The wrong chain can ruin your bar and sprocket by wearing unevenly. Using a chain that doesn’t match your saw model can void the warranty.

Taking a few minutes to get the right replacement chain saves money, time, and headaches down the road.

Where to buy chainsaw chains

You have several options for purchasing replacement chainsaw chains:

Local chainsaw dealerships

Specialized local businesses carry a variety of chains and can help you find the right one. They often sharpen chains as well.

Hardware and home improvement stores

Many hardware stores and home centers stock common pitches and sizes of chainsaw chains. Availability may be limited compared to dealers.

Online

Websites such as Amazon, Walmart, and eBay sell chainsaw chains. You can find specific brands, lengths, and styles. Make sure to check shipping times.

Direct from the manufacturer

Buying directly from chain brands such as Oregon, Husqvarna, or Stihl ensures you get an ideal match for your saw.

How to measure your existing chain

If you need to replace your existing chain, use a ruler to carefully measure:

• Chain pitch – Distance between three rivets divided by two
• Chain gauge – Thickness at drive link, usually .050” to .063”
• Number of drive links
• Mounting style – Manufacturer logo on connectors

Also inspect your bar’s marked length and sprocket size. With these measurements, finding an identical replacement chain is straightforward.

When to replace a chainsaw chain

Here are signs it’s time to swap out your old chain:

• Cutters are visibly worn down and dull
• Wood chips are powdery instead of coarse
• Chain stretches or slips off bar
• Increased vibration during cutting
• Slower cutting speed even when chain is sharp
• Drive links look cracked or peened over

Many professionals recommend replacing your chain after just a couple of sharpenings. Chains stretch over time. Swapping in fresh chains regularly enhances performance and safety.

How to maintain and sharpen chains

To get the longest life from chainsaw chains:

• Use the proper size bar and chain for your saw
• Check tension regularly and tension as needed
• Always cut at full throttle
• Watch for dull cutters and sharpen regularly
• Clean the bar groove periodically
• Use an oil formulated for chainsaws
• Store saws properly between uses

Sharpening is essential for chains to cut cleanly. You can use a round file and guide, or an electric grinder. Follow the original angle and be careful not to take off too much metal.

Safety tips when selecting and installing chains

Chainsaws are extremely dangerous tools if not used properly. Follow these precautions:

• Unplug saw before any work on the chain
• Wear heavy gloves when handling chains
• Mount bar and chain according to manufacturer instructions
• Ensure chain brake is engaged before starting saw
• Always tension chain prior to use

Take your time, double check your work, and refer to your user manual. Rushing when installing a new chain leads to accidents.

Signs of an improperly installed chainsaw chain

If your saw chain has been put on incorrectly, watch for:

• Loose or sagging chain
• Cutters facing the wrong direction
• Chain falling off the guide bar
• Grinding noises from the engine
• Excessive vibration
• Chain not sitting centered on the bar

Stop using the saw if you notice any of these issues and reinstall the chain. Forcing it to run with an improper chain risks severe damage and injury.

Conclusion

Selecting the appropriate chain for your specific make and model of chainsaw is a vital maintenance task. With the right pitch, gauge, length, and mounting style, a quality replacement chain enhances performance and safety. Take time to measure your bar and old chain, then use the diagrams and tips in this guide to order an optimal new saw chain. With basic knowledge of chain components and markings, you’ll be able to equip your saw with the best chain for the job.