Chain saw questions

there is a master link when the chain is assembled for use. I imagine that when you get a roll of chain you also get a bag of master links.

The first questions to as are:

- Is the chain a quality type, or junk?

- Do you or your friend have a chain saw that used this type and size of chain?

Chain saw chain doesn't use connecting links, you spin in new rivets to secure it.

Will the chain fit his/your saw? There are a LOT of different sizes and types of saw chain. Use the wrong type and you can fry the bar and the clutch REALLY quick.

Sort of, Except you usually need to grind off the spun head on the rivet first.

You use a connecting link that has separate rivet pins, They then get spun into shape.

Also make sure of what type of cutting action the chain has. Some chain is VERY aggressive and unless you use the saw a LOT and get used to that chain it can cause problems. The chain I use on my saws probably makes OSHA cry....

I only use the non-anti-kickback chain with the zillion warning labels. It makes the consumer chains look like you're trying to cut down the tree with a plastic butter knife.

One of you must have a chain saw, else why would you ask. Look at the chain on that saw. I have never seen a "master link" on a saw chain. It is NOT like a motorcyle chain. On the motorcycle, the sides of the chain never touch anything. On the chain saw, they are rubbng all the time and would tear up a master link in no time, I'd say. Yes, you "squeeze" the pin to mushroom it.

There are usually some numbers on the link to tell you what size the chain is. You need to match the chain to YOUR saw.

Properly maintained saws and chains last a long time. Unless you are REALLY hurting, I'd just buy a new chain or two when I need it (them).

BTW, I DO hand-sharpen my chains in the field, rather than carrying sharp chains with me as some folks do.

Pete Stanaitis

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Steve B wrote:

My brother calls the things that regulate depth of cut, 'lawyers bumps'.

A bit of file work can turn it up to your level of aggression.

Wes

-- "Additionally as a security officer, I carry a gun to protect government officials but my life isn't worth protecting at home in their eyes." Dick Anthony Heller

Mine are full chisel with the rakers cut back some. One slip and you would be missing a leg or more!!!

I get the Oregon Micro-chisel chains for my Shindaiwa 488 and love them. I once cut a couple rocks in half with one of those chains (embedded in a tree) and the chain survived too.

Here=92s a tool for making chain loops from bulk chainsaw chain: