Is your chainsaw in need of a new bar? Not sure which one you need? There are so many options, and knowing exactly which one you need the first time can be frustrating.
The first thing you need to do is measure the existing chainsaw bar, which will tell you exactly which replacement bar you will need. Here, I will tell you exactly how to measure a chainsaw bar and get the best fit.
This tutorial will show you how to determine the length of your chainsaw bar, as well as the pitch and gauge of the chain. All of these details are important when you need to replace either of these chainsaw components.
Contents
Things you will need
- A tape measure.
- A socket that fits over the nut holding the housing on. Your chainsaw may have come with a special tool to remove the housing. If so, use this tool instead.
- A pair of gloves with rubber finger grips, to prevent minor cuts from the stationary chain.
- Three coins (quarter, dime, and penny), to determine chain gauge. There is a chart below to help you determine the gauge using these.
- Flat head screw driver.
- Calculator
Measuring The Bar Steps-By-Steps
By measuring the bar and chain of your chainsaw, you will be able to replace either at a moment’s notice.
Make sure to measure the chain of your saw before using it for the first time.
The chain can become stretched over time, which will lead you to an incorrect measurement if you wait.
Step 1
You will want to measure the length of your bar. You will first need to measure for what is commonly called “called length.”
The called length is the measurement from the front of your chainsaw to the tip of the bar. Round the exact measurement obtained to the nearest inch.
Step 2
Check the bar inside of the housing. In order to do this, you will need to use a socket wrench to remove the housing. Here, you may find the information stamped on the bar, inside the housing.
If so, you should find the chain pitch, the gauge, and the number of drive links in the stamp.
Step 3
Once you have the measurement, you can put the housing back on your chainsaw, unless you need to measure the chain. If you do, follow the instructions below
Measuring The Chain Steps-By-Steps
If you are looking for a chain replacement, you will need to know the pitch and gauge of the chain.
This information also helps when you are replacing the blade, so you can ensure that all of your parts remain the same over time, and repairs can be done in the future.
Step 1
To determine the chain pitch or chain size, you will need to measure the distance between any three rivets that appear in a consecutive pattern.
You will then divide the measurement by 2. Rivets are small round studs that keep the chain together.
This information is essential to buy a new chain.
Step 2
Determining the gauge is a little different. The gauge is the width of the small groove in the bar of your chainsaw. Using a series of coins, you can perform a simple test.
Step 3
To perform this test, you will need a quarter, dime, and penny. Clean wood chips and sap out of a grove in the chainsaw blade.
Figure out which coin fits into this grove, without needing forcing. Use the guide below to determine the gauge.
Step 4
Once you know which coin fits into the groove, use this chart to determine the gauge.
| Quarter | 0.063 Gauge |
| Penny | 0.058 Gauge |
| Dime | 0.050 Gauge |
Conclusion
Even if you do not plan on replacing the bar or chain soon, it is important to know this information. You will definitely want to know the length of the chain, before it becomes stretched from use, or from being pinched.
After you have the measurements, make sure to keep them in a safe place for later use.
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