How To Measure For A Chainsaw Chain

So, there I was, standing in the middle of my backyard, chainsaw in one hand, a puzzled look on my face, and a measuring tape in the other. I'd just bought this shiny new chainsaw, ready to tackle that pesky old tree stump, but I realized I had no idea how to measure for a chainsaw chain. I mean, it's not like they teach us this in school, right? I'm pretty sure the last time I measured something was for my growth chart in kindergarten.

Anyway, I figured I'd give it a shot. I mean, how hard could it be? I grabbed the measuring tape, stretched it out along the bar of my chainsaw, and... well, let's just say the numbers weren't adding up. That's when I realized, I needed to learn how to measure for a chainsaw chain the right way.

First Things First: Understand Your Chainsaw

Before we dive into the measuring part, let's get to know our chainsaw a bit better. Chainsaws have two main parts that we're interested in: the bar (that's the long part where the chain sits) and the chain itself. The bar comes in different lengths, usually ranging from 12 to 20 inches. The chain, well, that's what does the cutting.

Now, here's where it gets a bit tricky. The length of the chain isn't just the length of the bar. It's actually a bit longer, because the chain wraps around the sprocket at the base of the bar. So, when we measure for a chainsaw chain, we're measuring the total length that the chain needs to be.

Alright, Let's Get Measuring

Okay, so you've got your chainsaw, your measuring tape, and you're ready to get started. The first thing you want to do is remove the old chain. This is for safety reasons, obviously. You don't want that thing snapping back at you while you're trying to measure.

Next, take your measuring tape and measure the bar of your chainsaw. This is the easy part. Just stretch the tape along the length of the bar, from the tip to the base, where the sprocket is. Make a note of that measurement. Let's call this number 'X'.

Easy Ways to Measure Chainsaw Chain: 8 Steps (with Pictures)

Now, here's where it gets a bit more complicated. You need to add a certain amount to 'X' to account for the part of the chain that wraps around the sprocket. This extra length is usually about 2 inches, but it can vary depending on the type of chain and sprocket you have. So, your total chain length should be 'X + 2'.

For example, if your bar is 16 inches long ('X' is 16), then your total chain length should be 18 inches ('X + 2').

But Wait, There's More!

Before you go ordering your new chain, there's one more thing you need to consider: the pitch. The pitch is the distance between the lugs (that's the fancy term for the little bumps on the chain) and the teeth. It's usually measured in inches or millimeters, and it can vary. Common pitches include 3/8", 0.325", and 3/4".

How To Measure A Chainsaw Chain Length - CHAINSAW PARTS

You can usually find the pitch on the side of the chainsaw's bar or in the owner's manual. If you're still having trouble, you can measure it yourself. Just take a ruler and measure the distance between three lugs, then divide that number by 2. That's your pitch.

So, when you're ordering your new chain, make sure to specify the total length (that's 'X + 2') and the pitch. That way, you'll get a chain that fits your chainsaw perfectly.

And That's How You Measure For A Chainsaw Chain

See, that wasn't so hard, was it? I mean, it's not like you need a PhD in chainsaw chain measurements to figure this out. Just remember: measure the bar, add 2 inches, and make sure you've got the right pitch. And always, always, remove the old chain before you start measuring. Safety first, folks!

Now, if you'll excuse me, I've got a tree stump to tackle. Wish me luck!