how to measure a chainsaw bar?

A chainsaw bar is the flat, blade-like component that extends from the body of a chainsaw and guides the cutting chain. Think of it as the backbone of your cutting system - it provides the structure and support the chain needs to work efficiently and safely.

Chainsaw bars come in different sizes. More powerful chainsaws have 20-inch bars, less powerful chainsaws have 18-inch bars or smaller.

Whether you are replacing a worn chainsaw bar, purchasing a new chain, or simply maintaining your equipment, accurate measurements ensure you get the right part. Using an incompatible chainsaw bar will not only reduce cutting performance, it can also create dangerous operating conditions.

Learn to properly measure your chainsaw bar in minutes with our step-by-step guide. It helps ensure your chainsaw operates at peak efficiency and meets the safety standards required by both professional and occasional users.

Why measuring chainsaw bars is important

Measuring chainsaw bars is an essential task that has several important implications in ensuring you purchase the correct replacement parts, maintain optimal performance, and ensure safety. Here are the main reasons why properly measuring chainsaw bars is critical:

Compatibility

Chainsaws are designed to work with specific bar and chain sizes. Using the correct bar length ensures smooth operation and prevents unnecessary wear on the chain saw engine and other parts. Incorrect bar length can cause the chain to become loose or overtight, which can lead to operational issues. Accurate measurements ensure that all of your chainsaw components work together as designed.

Performance

The length of a chainsaw bar can affect its cutting performance. Longer bars can handle larger logs and make deeper cuts, while shorter bars are better for precision and smaller jobs. However, a chainsaw's bar length is specifically designed to match the engine's power output. When you know the exact bar length, you can match it to the appropriate cutting task, increasing efficiency and reducing stress on you and the equipment.

For example, while you can use an 18-inch bar on a 14-inch chainsaw, it's generally not recommended. When the bar is larger than the chainsaw, it can overload the engine, resulting in reduced cutting performance and possible engine damage.

Safety

Safety is probably the most important reason to know the length of your chainsaw bar. Using the wrong size guide bar can lead to an increased risk of accidents such as kickback, chain derailment, and loss of control.

Maintenance

Regular maintenance is essential to extend the life of your chainsaw. Knowing your chainsaw bar length helps you perform accurate and timely maintenance tasks. Accurate measurements can prevent the purchase of the wrong replacement parts, saving you time and money.

Tools needed to measure a chainsaw bar

Properly measuring a chainsaw bar requires a few essential tools. Here is a comprehensive list of the equipment you will need:

• Tape measure: The tape measure measures the length of the chainsaw bar from the tip to where it enters the body. This is the most important measurement for determining the bar size.

• Ruler or caliper: Measure the width of the bar slot and the chain gauge with a caliper or ruler. The thickness of the drive chain link that slides into the bar slot is called the chain gauge.

• Notepad and pen: A notepad and pen are essential for recording measurements. Keeping a written record helps ensure that you have the information you need when purchasing replacement parts or performing maintenance.

• Protective gloves: Safety gloves protect your hands when handling a chainsaw bar. Chainsaw bars can have sharp edges, especially when the chain is still on the bar.

• Cleaning brush: The cleaning brush removes dirt, sawdust, and oil from the chainsaw bar before measuring. A clean surface ensures a more accurate measurement.

How to measure a chainsaw bar: A step-by-step guide

Safety first! Before measuring a chain saw bar, always:

• Make sure the chainsaw is completely off

• Engage the chain brake to prevent any unexpected movement

• If you are new to chainsaws, consider removing the spark plug wire for added safety

Method 1: Find chainsaw bar size

The easiest way to determine bar size is to check your chainsaw's owner's manual. Each model has a manual that lists the bar length in inches. It's a valuable reference to ensure compatibility and proper maintenance procedures. If you've lost your owner's manual, don't worry. You can measure the bar size yourself.

Method 2: step-by-step measurements

Step 1: Prepare the chainsaw

Place the chainsaw on a flat, stable surface with the chainsaw fully extended to one side. Wipe away any debris that may interfere with the measurement.

Step 2: Find the starting point

Find the tip of the bar - this is the rounded end farthest from the body of the chainsaw. This will be the starting point for your measurement.

Step 3: Find the end point

Look for the bar mounting shoulder, which is the point where the bar meets the body of the chainsaw. This point is usually where the saw blade begins to disappear into the chainsaw housing.

Step 4: Measure the distance

Stretch the tape measure from the tip of the saw blade to the shoulder of the saw blade. Keep the tape measure straight and aligned with the edge of the saw blade for the most accurate measurement.

Step 5: Record the measurement

Write down the distance in inches. This is the length of your chainsaw's blade.

Common measurement mistakes to avoid

Measure the entire bar

When we talk about chainsaw bar length, we are referring to the usable cutting length of the bar, not the total length of the entire piece of metal. This is an important distinction, but one that many people misunderstand. It is important to note that the length of a chainsaw bar does not include:

1. The powerhead (the main body of the chainsaw)

2. The portion of the chainsaw bar that sits within the powerhead

3. The chain itself

The correct way to measure the length of a chainsaw bar is to measure from the tip of the bar (the rounded end farthest from the body of the chainsaw) to the point where the bar meets the body of the chainsaw at the bar mounting shoulder. This measurement gives you the effective cutting length you can actually use when operating the chainsaw.

Finally, you must always round your measurements to the nearest largest even number in inches. This is because chainsaw bars are only expressed in even-numbered inches. Chainsaw bars typically come in standard sizes, such as 14 inches, 16 inches, 18 inches, 20 inches, and 24 inches. For example, if your measurement is 19.5 inches, your chainsaw probably has a 20-inch blade.

Measuring with chain

Chain can interfere with accurate measurements. While you can measure with chain, make sure the tape measure is along the edge of the bar and not the teeth of the chain.

Misreading the tape measure

You may misread inches or confuse metric and imperial measurements. Use a clear tape measure with bold markings. If using a metric tape measure, convert centimeters to inches (1 inch = 2.54 cm).

Measuring a bent bar

A twisted or bent bar will give inaccurate measurements. You need to first lay the bar on a flat surface to check if it is straight. If it is bent, consider replacing it instead of just measuring it.

Finally, don't forget to verify the accuracy of the measurement. Most chain saw models have specifications that include standard bar lengths. You can look for an online website that corresponds to your model and enter your model and get the correct bar specifications.

If you are unsure, measure several times and average them. Or take your chainsaw to a local dealer or repair shop. They can quickly confirm the correct bar size.

Conclusion

While measuring a chainsaw bar may seem simple, it requires close attention to detail and proper measuring techniques. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can confidently measure your chainsaw bar and maintain its performance and safety.

Remember, safety should always be your top priority when operating a chainsaw. Make sure your equipment is turned off and secured before attempting any measurements or maintenance. A little caution can prevent serious accidents.

We encourage you to take a few minutes today to properly measure your chainsaw bar, knowing your exact bar specifications will help you make an informed decision when purchasing replacement parts or upgrading your equipment.

As a professional chainsaw manufacturer with years of industry experience, we test every bar for precision and durability because we know the quality of our tools directly impacts the quality of your work.