Don’t measure the bar length while the spark plug wire is still attached to prevent the saw from starting while you’re working on it. The location of the screws or bolts may vary depending on the chainsaw model you have.
For example, if the measurement you took is 13 5⁄8 inches (35 cm), then the cutting length is 14 inches (36 cm). The cutting length may also be referred to as the called length, usable length, or effective length. The average cutting lengths on most chainsaws are 14 inches (36 cm), 16 inches (41 cm), 18 inches (46 cm), and 20 inches (51 cm).
If your chainsaw has a brake, make sure it’s in the locked position before removing the clutch cover. Otherwise, it will be difficult to put back on.
For example, if the measurement is 16 1⁄3 inches (41 cm), then the true length of the bar is 16 inches (41 cm). Standard chainsaw bar lengths are between 8–24 inches (20–61 cm). The true length of the chainsaw bar will always be longer than the cutting length.
Wear work gloves to help protect your hands from the chain’s teeth since they can be sharp.
For example, if the distance between the 3 rivets is 3⁄4 inch (1. 9 cm), divide it by 2 to get a pitch of 3⁄8 inch (0. 95 cm). The pitch may also be listed in inches on the right side of the chainsaw’s bar.
The gauge measurement is usually listed on the side of the chainsaw’s bar in inches if you aren’t able to measure it. The standard gauge sizes are 0. 050 inches (1. 3 mm), 0. 058 inches (1. 5 mm), and 0. 063 inches (1. 6 mm). Your chain gauge may also be 0. 043 inches (1. 1 mm), but it’s not very common.
You may be able to find the number of drive links on the side of the chainsaw’s bar labeled with “DL” (drive links).
