Size Chainsaw for Firewood?

[vogue]

Hi, i need a new chainsaw now that we have a wood heater (main source of heat).
I already have a Stihl ms210 which is great for camping etc, but now i need something bigger.
What size should i get?
I'm trying to decide between a Stihl 291, 311 or 391.
I like Stihl and do some work for the local dealer, so am not interested in other brands.
Stihl have $200 off the above saws at the moment, so a good time to buy.
Startup page | STIHL | Stihl, chain saws, brushcutters, hedge trimmers, clearing saws, high-pressure cleaners (http://www.stihl.com.au/)

STIHL Products | STIHL | Stihl, chain saws, brushcutters, hedge trimmers, clearing saws, high-pressure cleaners (http://www.stihl.com.au/STIHL-Products/Chain-saws/01572/Landowner-Chain-saws.aspx)

Thanks

[Saitch]

I've got a Stihl 170 & 290 for work around the place & never needed any more. The little 170 is perfect for pruning, trimming branches off felled trees etc. In my opinion you wouldn't need to go bigger than the 290 for firewood. An 18" bar & 64cc is more than adequate for firewood. Have had Stihl since early 70's & "Stihl" using them.:wasntme: Of course it depends on the timber in question. I'm normally sawing ironbark, red & gray gum & black wattle. The wattle is fantastic!

[Beckford]

I have the Stihl Farmboss 311 with a 20" bar. I use it for firewood, fencing and cleaning up fallen trees on our 10 acre block.

I get the pros in to fall really big trees, and then do all the hard work at ground level.

I used to have the previous model until it was stolen in a ram raid while getting serviced. The 311 has an improved vibration system, but I miss using my old 310.

[blitz]

Chain saws are a bit like power tools the big brands have a DIY level and a "trade" level.

Being a tradesman I always chose 'trade' so even though I have a different brand - huski, overkill maybe but I will still have working fine in 30 years

[uninformed]

as Blitz said, get your dealer to show you the "pro" models. I think the 361 has just been replaced by the 362???, Im not a Stihl guy so dont quote me. Huskies are a bit easier to size by their model number, for example a 372xt is 72cc. a 390xp is 88 cc, a 346xp is a 50cc

Good if you can afford to support your local dealer, but prices here in Oz, especially Stihl are rediculous. I have bought all but 1 of my saws 2nd hand from Ebay.USA

[Beckford]

I always chose 'trade' so even though I have a different brand - huski, overkill maybe but I will still have working fine in 30 years

We don't really have that problem on the central coast. My first chainsaw was stolen after only 5 years of use.

I now list my chainsaw and brushcutter on my home & contents as a portable valuable. (The repair shop eventually replaced my saw. But in the meantime I had to buy another one, so I could keep fencing and cleaning up from the 07 storm.)

[isuzurover]

I have a husky 357XP [pro series husky] which has filled all my firewood duties fine to-date. I think the closest STIHL equivalent is the 361/362.

I also have a Stihl 038 Magnum project saw, but just because I got it cheap, and occasionally could use a longer bar then the 16" bar on the husky.

When I bought the husky it came with an 18" bar, and while it has the power it was unbalanced, and is much nicer to use with a 16" bar. The 038 mag is a fat pig so feels balanced even with a 20" bar ;)

[Drover]

Have had a Husky 372 for the last few years, it's quite a saw.

More than enough power,nice balance and feel.

And remember, just like KTM -

If it ain't orange - then its a lemon.

[rick130]

It all comes down to what you are cutting, and can you sharpen a chain ;)

[edit] What I mean by that is that my modified 80cc saw almost isn't enough saw for some of what I cut, I really need a couple of more saws but I'm used to something that cuts pretty damned quickly and efficiently.

[LandyAndy]

AWESOME.
Another chainsaw thread.
You cant get any better than a Husky 120XP.
If you are ever in downtown Williams WA you can have a play with mine.
Bar length is your choice,3 foot 6 or 4 foot:twisted::twisted::twisted::twisted::twisted:: twisted::twisted:
120CC of pure grunt,sounds like a motocross bike :cool::cool::cool::cool::cool:
Andrew

[rick130]

Geez Andy, if you hand someone a 3120 who's only ever handled tiddler saws you'll put them off saws for life :twisted:

[Pedro_The_Swift]

OMG,,
another chainsaw thread,,
run for the hills!

[vogue]

Thanks for the help.
I'm not really interested in which brand rather whether a 55cc with 18" bar will be ok or will i regret not buying the 64cc with 20" bar?
I would love a pro saw, but the budget won't reach that far.
This year i managed to cut all our timber with a 33cc and 14" bar, so im looking for the balance between size, power, weight (i'm not a big bloke) and money.

[cewilson]

Any of those saws you mentioned will be fine. I'd personally get the 20" bar, but I have (and use) three different saws for cutting firewood. I only use the size I need to, as there's nothing worse than hanging off an oversize chainsaw all day doing fiddly branch work.

[blitz]

Any of those saws you mentioned will be fine. I'd personally get the 20" bar, but I have (and use) three different saws for cutting firewood. I only use the size I need to, as there's nothing worse than hanging off an oversize chainsaw all day doing fiddly branch work.

or trying to do more than the saw is capable of.

[Redback]

I wasn't going to post, but buggar it, we use a 251 Woodboss for our firewood duties, this is the farm duties saw, just got two loads last weekend, trailer and ute load full, the Woodboss is perfect for this and we use it for camping as well.

Baz.

[D110V8D]

Have been using and thrashing an 023 for years, still going but a little worse for wear. :angel:

Still got it but I mainly use a 460 Magnum now. Don't know how I ever got by without it. :twisted:

Honestly though, it is a very powerful saw, the weight can be a pain at times, sore lower back etc after a few hours serious cutting, but it'll do everything I need it for (felling tree's, firewood, scaring the local kids etc) all day, everyday.

[rick130]

OK, I wasn't going to get into the brand stuff, but I'm damned if I'd pay $1200 for a consumer grade POS 64cc saw :eek:

A Makita DCS6401 would run rings around an MS391, it's three times the saw, built to pro specs, almost half the price and built in Germany by Dolmar who have been making petrol powered chainsaws longer than Stihl (Fact, and have been owned by Makita since 1991)

For an extra $150 or so you can have a 73cc DCS7301 that runs alongside the Husky 372XP and creams the MS440 Stihl, with anti-vibe the equal of the Husky and miles ahead of the Stihl.
For another 150-200 you can have the DCS7901 which is yes, 79cc and blows the doors off an MS460 and easily beats the old MS064 (I've run them side by side, and I modified the muffler and re-tuned the 064)

The new MS441 is a really good saw, but are stupidly priced.
The MS361 has really poor air filtration, it isn't suitable for Australian timber/conditions, particularly firewood use, but I'm not sure about the new MS362.

Stihls are so ridiculously overpriced in this country it's almost immoral.

[Rick1970]

Thanks for the help.
I'm not really interested in which brand rather whether a 55cc with 18" bar will be ok or will i regret not buying the 64cc with 20" bar?
I would love a pro saw, but the budget won't reach that far.
This year i managed to cut all our timber with a 33cc and 14" bar, so im looking for the balance between size, power, weight (i'm not a big bloke) and money.

I cut most of my wood with small saw (488 Shindowia 48cc???), and yes i regret not going to something in the 65-75cc range.

[bushrover]

I cut most of my wood with small saw (488 Shindowia 48cc???), and yes i regret not going to something in the 65-75cc range.



built in Germany by Dolmar who have been making petrol powered chainsaws longer than Stihl
I love chainsaw threads just as much as Land Rover threads.

That first petrol chainsaw was in Australia, probably around 1986 - 87 on display and I put a helicoil in one of the bolt holes near where the bar pivots. The boss stripped a thread putting it together for display - don't tell Makita. I will have to find out where it is now and see if my helicoil lasted.

Three Rick's in a row............I am starting to feel a little bit common

[justinc]

I have a 55 Husky, 18" bar. My BIL has a Stihl 066 Magnum, 20+" bar. The difference in performance is staggering:( the Stihl looks like it is cutting through a wet paper bag....BUT I would hate to lug a bigger saw around when you are cutting household fire sized logs. For me, 18" bar and around 55 to 64cc is just fine.

I love the KTM line Drover...:D:D:D

JC

[Landy Smurf]

we are also looking at the stihl 291 and 311 because of the cash back. anything around 40cc and bigger would be good for firewood

[rick130]

OMG,,
another chainsaw thread,,
run for the hills!

and we're only just getting warmed up :D

[Landy Smurf]

get ready Pedro because this is going to be a RIPPING conversation

[rick130]

[snip]

Three Rick's in a row............I am starting to feel a little bit common

Don't, it's just that brains and good looks attracts itself :D

Oh, and modesty too :angel:

[rick130]

get ready Pedro because this is going to be a RIPPING conversation

Do you want me to post up a ripping video ? :D

[justinc]

Do you want me to post up a ripping video ? :D

:D:D:D:D:D:o:confused:


jc

[Landy Smurf]

that WOOD be good

[bushrover]

Do you want me to post up a ripping video ? :D I used to compete in post ripping races. Did a Steve Bradbury and actually won.................... once.

Rick

[Landy Smurf]

our neighbour does that he has gone to nationals a few times along with another local guy in my yr at school. i wouldnt mind having a go but the cost of the chainsaws is to much for me

[rick130]

I used to compete in post ripping races. Did a Steve Bradbury and actually won.................... once.

Rick

That's what I was going to post, not moi, but usually featuring a couple of blokes Serg and I know.

[vogue]

OK, I wasn't going to get into the brand stuff, but I'm damned if I'd pay $1200 for a consumer grade POS 64cc saw :eek:

A Makita DCS6401 would run rings around an MS391, it's three times the saw, built to pro specs, almost half the price and built in Germany by Dolmar who have been making petrol powered chainsaws longer than Stihl (Fact, and have been owned by Makita since 1991)

For an extra $150 or so you can have a 73cc DCS7301 that runs alongside the Husky 372XP and creams the MS440 Stihl, with anti-vibe the equal of the Husky and miles ahead of the Stihl.
For another 150-200 you can have the DCS7901 which is yes, 79cc and blows the doors off an MS460 and easily beats the old MS064 (I've run them side by side, and I modified the muffler and re-tuned the 064)

The new MS441 is a really good saw, but are stupidly priced.
The MS361 has really poor air filtration, it isn't suitable for Australian timber/conditions, particularly firewood use, but I'm not sure about the new MS362.

Stihls are so ridiculously overpriced in this country it's almost immoral.

Is anyone else using a Makita?
They seem like great value and aren't double the US price like Stihls.
Can get the Makita 6401 for $765 in Aus.
What is after sales service like? Parts etc?

[Yorkie]

ebay cheapy with 18" bar, has worked fine for the past 2/3 years for firewood duties. :)

[460cixy]

I use an old husky rancher 50 for fire wood its perfect i have about 30 saws to choose from and the husky is it .anything much bigger and you will be working harder then you need to. And of course there too expensive in Australia. And the dealers on both sides of the fence are lacking I make all my own chains and can't buy rolls of chain off the shelf at any dealers here very disappointing. Also don't fall in to the trap of the dealer saying chains are cheaper for stihl then a husky or vice versa my mate got sucked in by that was set to buy a husky and talked in to the bigger stihl . I laughed my guts out when he told me

[LandyAndy]

Is anyone else using a Makita?
They seem like great value and aren't double the US price like Stihls.
Can get the Makita 6401 for $765 in Aus.
What is after sales service like? Parts etc?

YEP.
Except mine is the original manufacturer before Makita took over,stihl(:twisted::twisted::twisted:) the same saw.
I agree with Ricks comments.It is excells in anti vibration and has better power than same CC saws.

Mine is the Dolmar 116si.Have a google,there is an identical Makita.

Be aware that all the major brands have handyman and professional versions,wich explains the varience in cost for the same size saw.

Both my big Huskie and the Dolmar are professional quality machines,I used to cut a bit of firewood to earn extra coin,would reccomend either saw and would buy the same again.The only issues I have had with the Dolmar are the front engine mounts split,easy to change and not too expensive.The only issue with the Husky,keeping PULP 2 Stroke up to it:twisted::twisted::twisted::twisted: Its a thirsty BEAST.
Andrew

[rick130]

Most all of the old school Dolly/Makita's have been replaced by new versions Andrew, and all the new ones use spring AV which is bloody unreal.

[rick130]

Is anyone else using a Makita?
They seem like great value and aren't double the US price like Stihls.
Can get the Makita 6401 for $765 in Aus.
What is after sales service like? Parts etc?

Yep, I use them and a mate in SA has a brace of them for professional falling.

Spares aren't an issue, Makita Oz has stocks of most everything although some prices are crazy, like the HD filter option for the 64/73/7900 is triple the US price :mad:
Other bits are cheaper than the equivalent part for a Husky, so go figure.

Easy fix is buy from the US, ten days tops.

I have a good dealer I use there on the US east coast for consumables, e.g. clutch springs, on-off switches, chain catchers, rubbing blocks, etc, and he often has the parts despatched the same day and I've had stuff turn up in under a week.

[Dockstrada]

I use a McCulloch Chain Saw-40cm works great .it was about $200
https://www.aulro.com/afvb/images/imported/2012/08/700.jpg
https://www.aulro.com/afvb/images/imported/2012/08/701.jpg

[LandyAndy]

I can see the health and saftey lovers getting into these pics:p:p:p:p:p
At least he is wearing steel capped boots;););););)
Andrew

[dromader driver]

you'll have to speak up i have been using the saw :wasntme:

[George130]

He He.
I just got myself the wimpy 1800 watt electric 14 inch chain saw yesterday! with 30 metres of extension cord on a roll. I'm happy after todays effort with it.

Killed my petrol cheapie last weekend when I remodeled the clothes line with a tree.

The petrol one was a $100 special that lasted 5 years of abuse cutting things that a 12 inch bar shouldn't before the clutch burn't out, chain died and a broke the switch.

Some pics

https://www.aulro.com/afvb/images/imported/2012/08/686.jpg (http://www.aulro.com/app/showphoto.php/photo/21882/title/img034/cat/1231)

https://www.aulro.com/afvb/images/imported/2012/08/687.jpg (http://www.aulro.com/app/showphoto.php/photo/21881/title/img033/cat/1231)

https://www.aulro.com/afvb/images/imported/2012/08/688.jpg (http://www.aulro.com/app/showphoto.php/photo/21880/title/img032/cat/1231)

https://www.aulro.com/afvb/images/imported/2012/08/689.jpg (http://www.aulro.com/app/showphoto.php/photo/21877/title/img029/cat/1231)

[Homestar]

I can see the health and saftey lovers getting into these pics:p:p:p:p:p
At least he is wearing steel capped boots;););););)
Andrew

Yeah, but in reality - how many of us actually use a saw like this? I think that most of us have/had/do at some point...:)

I always wear steel caps - and glasses (because they are always on my face:D) and sometimes hearing protection if I am cutting more than a few bits for the camp fire, but that's about it.

[Homestar]

Oh, and while I'm here - anyone got any comments on the smaller 'Homeowner' Huskys? I was looking at the 240 e-series today. It would fit well in the back of the Rangie for camping, etc. I don't have a wood fire any more and sold my 066 & 038 Stihl's years ago.

Cheers - Gav

[rick130]

Yeah, but in reality - how many of us actually use a saw like this? I think that most of us have/had/do at some point...:)

I always wear steel caps - and glasses (because they are always on my face:D) and sometimes hearing protection if I am cutting more than a few bits for the camp fire, but that's about it.

Andy's just stirring the pot as there was a hell of a kerfuffle once upon a time on one of these threads when someone was cutting sans PPE :lol2:

[bee utey]

He He.
I just got myself the wimpy 1800 watt electric 14 inch chain saw yesterday! with 30 metres of extension cord on a roll. I'm happy after todays effort with it.




My el cheapo Makita 1800W electric saw is a dream to use, best thing about it is that it cost about the same as ONE PLASTIC GEAR that spat the dummy in my Stihl electric saw's gear box. With a 16" bar the Makita will cut most things around my place, fells modest size trees with ease, is also very quiet! It's light enough that I can use it one handed if I need to prune something a little further away (Shhh the safety boys will worry) . The chain is very narrow so it cuts quickly with low power needs, and hasn't needed more that a touch of the sharpener in 2 years of occasional use.

It also runs well off the 2.5kVa genset, makes wood collecting easy.

[DanFoster7]

I have a MS381 which has been worked non stop for the past three years without missing a beat I have not been able to find a tree to big or to seasoned the MS381 is highly recommended.

[uninformed]

IMPO, If you cannot afford a pro grade saw, save until you can. Do your shopping research. Look online. As I have said I have bought all but 1 of my Huskies 2nd hand. They are all the older "2" ( 262, 272, 288 2100)series saws. No problems with them at all. I would have to win lotto before I bought a Stihl in Aus, and then I still wouldnt. It is just BS what they want for them and their dealers havent impressed me thus far (had one tell me I cant run Stihl chain on any other brand saw as it wont work....

The Makita/Dolmar Rick speaks of is a great saw. VERY good quality (way better than a home owner or commercial anything. It IS a pro saw. You can buy the 64cc model and just buy a P&C kit from the USA to make it 79cc (the saw shares all but the P&C with the 79cc version)

Dont compare Husky and Stihl numbers. Husky model numbers are series then approx cc, Stihl are sort of hp...JC mentioned a Husky 55 and a Stihl 066, the Husky is 55cc the Stihl is 93cc or so...........

Husky antivibe and filtration is better on most of there saws when compared to Sthil cc for cc. Stihl have a few new models that are gaining that back to equal.

I just like Husky balance and feel

Stihl make some good saws
Makita/Dolmar make some good saws
Solo make some good saws.

[LandyAndy]

BOTH my saws were bought secondhand,less than $1500 all up,both are low hour saws and legitimate purchases,both sellers provided the original reciept for the saws.
Andrew

[MacMan]

Gav, I picked up my Jonsered CS2159 (Husky 359 in red clothing) for a little over $420 from an eBay seller just up the road in as new condition. To buy a new Husky (Jonsered no longer sold locally) I'd have paid more than twice that. It's a little ripper though. Light enough to be pleasant to use but cuts superbly with a well sharpened chain.

[460cixy]

Jonserred and partner are both owned by husqvarna among others There sold under these cheaper brand first then badged huskys by the time there sold as a husky the bugs are well worked out

[d2dave]

Vogue. I would recommend a 20 inch bar. It is a good all round size. Can tackle larger logs as well as not being two big for smaller stuff. My very first saw, a second hand one, came with a 20 incher, and it did everything I needed, including dropping a large tree. I have had a couple of saws since, and apart from my pruning saw I use 20 inch.

http://img43.imageshack.us/img43/9264/img6797k.jpg (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/43/img6797k.jpg/)

My pruning saw and 20 inch Stihl demolished this tree.

[vogue]

OK, I wasn't going to get into the brand stuff, but I'm damned if I'd pay $1200 for a consumer grade POS 64cc saw :eek:

A Makita DCS6401 would run rings around an MS391, it's three times the saw, built to pro specs, almost half the price and built in Germany by Dolmar who have been making petrol powered chainsaws longer than Stihl (Fact, and have been owned by Makita since 1991)

For an extra $150 or so you can have a 73cc DCS7301 that runs alongside the Husky 372XP and creams the MS440 Stihl, with anti-vibe the equal of the Husky and miles ahead of the Stihl.
For another 150-200 you can have the DCS7901 which is yes, 79cc and blows the doors off an MS460 and easily beats the old MS064 (I've run them side by side, and I modified the muffler and re-tuned the 064)

The new MS441 is a really good saw, but are stupidly priced.
The MS361 has really poor air filtration, it isn't suitable for Australian timber/conditions, particularly firewood use, but I'm not sure about the new MS362.

Stihls are so ridiculously overpriced in this country it's almost immoral.

Thanks heaps for the advice on the Makita 6401. I did a heap of research on US sites and today just got one delivered for $770 from a place in South Oz. It was half the price of the equiverlant Stihl or Husky:D
Once this wind stops i'll be out giving it a go:D

[rick130]

Thanks heaps for the advice on the Makita 6401. I did a heap of research on US sites and today just got one delivered for $770 from a place in South Oz. It was half the price of the equiverlant Stihl or Husky:D
Once this wind stops i'll be out giving it a go:D

You won't be disappointed ;)

I'll be interested to see what chain it's supplied with.
If it's the bent over raker full chisel safety chain, get some semi-chisel loops for firewood use, and there's a little bit of art in making those safety chains cut well too, but the 'Vanguard' chain isn't too slow but isn't ideal for firewood/dirty timber use.

For chains and consumables a good mate of mine in South Oz can't be beaten for service and price.
Drop Matt a line at Riverland Saw Chain Supply and tell him Rick and Serg suggested you buy the saw on the Landy forum, he'll get a laugh out of it :D (he actually likes Landies, too)
Matt's number is 0438 813 459, email riverlandsawchain@gmail.com

BTW, he runs a couple of ported 7901 Dolmars (Makita's) for tree felling ;) (as well as a worked over 390XP and 3120XP Huskies)

[uninformed]

Congrats on the new saw, you won't be disappointed. A few tips. ONLY use fresh petrol and a hi quality 2t aircooled oil. Don't worry about the manual telling you to run the ratio at 25:1 if using non-dolmar branded oil. Mix at 50-1. If you are not familiar with tuning, take it to your local dealer. Be upfront, buy a few chains and stuff and ask to tune. Pop off the top cover and see how the air filter clicks in and out.

Only run sharp chains
Clean air filters regularly
Dump fuel and idle dry if not using for 2 weeks or more.
Run bp 98 octane (this has no ethanol)
Dont blip throttle or run at half throttle. Get use to using at full throttle and adjusting pressure with your touch.

[rick130]

[snip]

Dump fuel and idle dry if not using for 2 weeks or more.

[snip]

I know everyone recommends this, but I've never liked it and have never done it.
It just doesn't sit right with me when you rely on the fuel to carry your lube. http://www.freesmileys.org/smileys/smiley-confused013.gif

As Serg said, use good fuel, I also use BP Ultimate and use a high quality JASO FC/FD oil.
The manual will say 40:1 with non branded oil or 50:1 with Makita/Dolmar oil.
Either ratio is OK.

[uninformed]

Either is ok as long as tune is adjusted to fuel/oil ratio ;)

I'm not sure how idling dry will hurt. There is a film there until it stops dead. I have done it on all my stuff for a few years now. Nothing dead yet, but then again most not opened up to check???

[rick130]

[snip]

I'm not sure how idling dry will hurt. There is a film there until it stops dead.
[snip]


I know, but I just have this thing in my head that no fuel/lean and a two stroke = :(

[uninformed]

Yeah but you wear crocs......so something isn't right already

[LandyAndy]

Welcome to the DOLMARio GRIN,despite it being a Makita;);););)
Once you get your head around sharpening chain,its an art,you will love to see the chips fly off a full chisel chain,until you learn sharpening stick with the semi chisel,full chisel either cut or dont;););)
Andrew

[rick130]

Yeah but you wear crocs......so something isn't right already

They were a present OK, so I have to :p

I wear orange stripey hippy daks, and patchwork rainbow shorts by choice too, so maybe you're right :D

[uninformed]

They were a present OK, so I have to :p

I wear orange stripey hippy daks, and patchwork rainbow shorts by choice too, so maybe you're right :D

Those are fine, just the crocs that are a international crime!

Btt, don't you assemble piston/ring/cylinder dry ;)

[rick130]

Those are fine, just the crocs that are a international crime!

Btt, don't you assemble piston/ring/cylinder dry ;)

Naa, I lube the skirts :D

[pannawonica]

I got my first saw 038 Magnum about 15 years ago, worked it hard still going but to be realistic the high cost of evan small consumable parts, its not alot more dough to cough up for a new Dolmar/Makita. Quite interested in the big bore kit. The old Magnum is a real drinker and the filtration whilst good cloggs up too quickly.
I always dump old fuel and put a little more oil in 30-1 and idle dry after use ( 15 years). I have been paying $150 for multi cut chain ( Too much! ) I have found for me that chains last longer with regular sharpening using an Oregon sharpener, bit like a drop saw. This allows me to take off less than I would by using a file. Dressing the bar also keeps the cuts straight.
The biggest move forward in wood collecting was my 10.5 HP log splitter, this allows me to take firewood that everybody else leaves behind. Rounds of over 1metre, and heart wood split drys out real quick in comparision to a complete round.

[cewilson]

Prices can be ridiculous, and I find that ebay (or America) is a lot cheaper than any local store. Which is a crying shame as I'd rather support the local stores - but the price difference is huge!

I noticed since I last contributed in this thread that there has been a big conversation on prices and brands etc. IMHO any of the 3 brands will do the job however I only buy second-hand (although the 211C was dealer second hand). The price for new is crazy and I personally can't justify it.

I see a lot of people having trouble sharpening chains. I run 2 chains for each saw and only ever hand sharpen when out bush. No matter how good I am I still end up eventually with uneven teeth and it becomes a pain in the bum. So I forked out and got a decent bench grinder. 30 minutes when I get home with the grinder and my air compressor has all 3 saws and the 6 chains ready to go again - makes a huge difference.

Dressing the bar is done on my normal bench grinder. Yes you can buy fancy stuff or use a hand file but I suppose it comes down to what you are used to.

Log splitter - jeez it'd be nice!!!



Lastly if you look after them then they will look after you. Spend the extra time getting them right when you get home and you'll very rarely have an issue.


Cheers
Chris



BTW I run Stihl but only because that's what I found when I was shopping. A 211C (16" bar); 038 (20" bar); and 064 (26" bar).

[d2dave]

For dressing the bar I use one of these.

https://www.aulro.com/afvb/images/imported/2012/12/92.jpg

With the table 90 degrees to the disc I get a perfect finish

[460cixy]

For dressing the bar I use one of these.

https://www.aulro.com/afvb/images/imported/2012/12/92.jpg

With the table 90 degrees to the disc I get a perfect finish


That would work fine. In not going to bother posting up a pic of my machine that is basically the same but on a much larger scale but it also allows me to re groove the bar as well

[rick130]

That would work fine. In not going to bother posting up a pic of my machine that is basically the same but on a much larger scale but it also allows me to re groove the bar as well

A mate has one of those but has exploded a few discs so gave the groove grinding away.

I just use the small hand held, ski type Pferd/Oregon dressing tool.

Works well.

[460cixy]

Yes there very thin and there spinning pretty quick and explode if you make a mistake very un forgiving but realy by the time the bar needs re grooving it stuffed

[cewilson]

Yep - by the time I'm ready to go and buy a couple of new chains, I'm getting a new bar as well.

[pannawonica]

Yep - by the time I'm ready to go and buy a couple of new chains, I'm getting a new bar as well.

Yes I find exactly the same thing, especially if they:D are the multicut chains. In actual fact cutting only green wood it would be a very significant amount of firewood.

[LandyAndy]

I got my first saw 038 Magnum about 15 years ago, worked it hard still going but to be realistic the high cost of evan small consumable parts, its not alot more dough to cough up for a new Dolmar/Makita. Quite interested in the big bore kit. The old Magnum is a real drinker and the filtration whilst good cloggs up too quickly.
I always dump old fuel and put a little more oil in 30-1 and idle dry after use ( 15 years). I have been paying $150 for multi cut chain ( Too much! ) I have found for me that chains last longer with regular sharpening using an Oregon sharpener, bit like a drop saw. This allows me to take off less than I would by using a file. Dressing the bar also keeps the cuts straight.
The biggest move forward in wood collecting was my 10.5 HP log splitter, this allows me to take firewood that everybody else leaves behind. Rounds of over 1metre, and heart wood split drys out real quick in comparision to a complete round.

Another log splitter fan:cool::cool::cool::cool::cool::cool:
Love mine despite the grief I have had with it in the past.32tonne pressure and diesel powered,it destroys ANYTHING you throw at it:cool::cool::cool::cool::cool::cool::cool:
Andrew

[pannawonica]

My log splitter is a 34 ton Speco from the good Ol USA. Only had one problem with it ( not the 10.5 HP I/C Briggs) the end plate casting bent and was replaced under warranty with 70mm plate. I split about 30 ton or more the first year I had it, that sent the family and my retired assistant to Thailand for 3 weeks for R and R. Looked at making one myself and could not come close on parts at the time.
Generally I burn 4/6 ton year and would not be without the thing, it does'nt take that long to load the 2 ton trailer with hungry boards.:D

[LandyAndy]

Mine is an Ebay special.
USA Splitters or something similar.Cheap chinease CRAP!!!
Is going well now.
I get green hardwood we remove during roadworks and cut/split it green,dries quick.
Latest source is old jarrah powerpoles,we have been aquireing heaps of them,an axe will do the job,so much more fun with the splitter:twisted::twisted::twisted::twisted:
Andrew

[Sheppie]

Cutting firewood, should go with a hagen saw (sometimes called a boom saw), you know 18hp vtwin B&S motor mounted on some wheels and a 36 inch or so circular saw blade out the front.
Ive got dads one and its done heaps of work over the years from cutting sleepers to thousands of tons of firewood - all ironbark. This was in the Goonoo state forrest between Dubbo and Mendooran before some clown of a premier made it a national park and threw away the key.
have to find some pix :)

[rick130]

A Hargan saw :eek:

A mate once described them to me as a widow maker.

There's an old bloke around here has two and still uses them, and AFAIK he still has all his digits, limbs and head attached, much to my amazement.

[uninformed]

wasnt there a vid of one set up running of an old holden 6cyl runing...

[BathurstTom]

For home firewood cutting, any quality 50-60cc saw with an 16-18" bar and a couple of spare chains would be good. I used to do it for a living and used to lug around a Sachs Dolmar 166 which was a 119cc saw and weighed a ton, but could it cut through box wood. At that time, the Sachs Dolmar would eat the Stihl 90, but that was like 30 years ago now. Good saw to cut several tonnes of white box a day, but over kill for domestic use.

Tom.

[BathurstTom]

Welcome to the DOLMARio GRIN,despite it being a Makita;);););)
Once you get your head around sharpening chain,its an art,you will love to see the chips fly off a full chisel chain,until you learn sharpening stick with the semi chisel,full chisel either cut or dont;););)
Andrew

When I did it for a living I preferred full chisel over semi chisel. As LandAndy says, just keep them sharp. When I had the Dolmar 166, the chips sure did fly!

Tom.

[uninformed]

this could be a good saw for someone:

SOLO 656 Chainsaw 20 inch Bar made in Germany | eBay (http://www.ebay.com.au/itm/SOLO-656-Chainsaw-20-inch-Bar-made-in-Germany-/230934543593?pt=LH_DefaultDomain_15&hash=item35c4c57ce9)

[rick130]

Tom, you don't still have the 166 do you ?

I'd love a 166 just to shut up umm, quiet down all the Stihl heads that think an 090 was the ultimate lump of lead, err, saw :D

[BathurstTom]

Tom, you don't still have the 166 do you ?

I'd love a 166 just to shut up umm, quiet down all the Stihl heads that think an 090 was the ultimate lump of lead, err, saw :D

Rick, this will break your heart. When I got out of the woodcutting game, I gave them both (I had two) to my brother. He, against my advice "tuned" them and blew them both up in a month.:mad:

I see if he still has them though. If you can get a barrel and piston, you would certainly upset a couple of stihl 90 owners :twisted:

I'll find out.

Tom.

[rick130]

Rick, this will break your heart. When I got out of the woodcutting game, I gave them both (I had two) to my brother. He, against my advice "tuned" them and blew them both up in a month.:mad:

I see if he still has them though. If you can get a barrel and piston, you would certainly upset a couple of stihl 90 owners :twisted:

I'll find out.

Tom.

:o:(

Guess what are the two things you can't find anymore for the 166 :(

A collector in the US had the US race piston manufacturer Wiseco make a batch of forged pistons a few years ago. A few blokes even raced them still and were after pistons. Apparently the originals were made by Kolbenschmidt in Germany but they don't/won't make anymore.
Lee might have a couple left :)

[BathurstTom]

* Sachs Dolmar 166 piston NEW * chainsaw * | eBay (http://www.ebay.com.au/itm/Sachs-Dolmar-166-piston-NEW-chainsaw-/120776743167?pt=LH_DefaultDomain_0&hash=item1c1edad8ff)

[uninformed]

what about the 166/090 combo... :)

[uninformed]

* Sachs Dolmar 166 piston NEW * chainsaw * | eBay (http://www.ebay.com.au/itm/Sachs-Dolmar-166-piston-NEW-chainsaw-/120776743167?pt=LH_DefaultDomain_0&hash=item1c1edad8ff)

Thats not a bad looking piston. Very similar to the original KS Husky 2100 thin ring full circle. Looks like it has good skirt width for widening ports. If is the correct specs for a 166 then Id say thats a winner

[BathurstTom]

Don't know what the cost would be, but I don't think it would be that astronomical. This guy might have the answer.

http://www.arboristsite.com/chainsaw/115873.htm

Tom.

[uninformed]

Leeha is the Lee Rick130 was referring to regarding the custom Weisco 166 pistons.

[rick130]

Tom, I'm really starting to hope you turn a saw or two up :D

I don't know where that ebay piston is made, but if it's an Italian made Meteor or Golf it'd be very well made and it'd be nice to have some old girls running again.

They made an excellent race saw too.

[Sheppie]

A Hargan saw :eek:

A mate once described them to me as a widow maker.

There's an old bloke around here has two and still uses them, and AFAIK he still has all his digits, limbs and head attached, much to my amazement.


Like any tool they deserve respect, lots of them never had clutches which is a bit silly. I would not use one without a clutch.