Making sure that you have the right chain for the right bar can be a bit of concern if you are new to chainsaws. A chain is a composite of a parts of course and it really helps if you each part is clearly identifiable to you and just as importantly, just what the associated measurement is.
Remember, we are dealing with the cutting length - the amount of the bar that is used to cut, not the entire length of the bar. The ‘cutting length’ is usually an even number in inches; 10", 16" 18", 20", 24" and so on. The overall length is not a measurement used in any calculation with chainsaws in general.
Okay, so lets look at the constituent parts of a chain and the measurements that are attributed to those parts.
Drive links- Length
Drive links are the standard way to measure a chain - the amount of links is intrinsic to the length of the bar. Most bars will show the required amount of links for the chain on the bar itself. Here on this 20" bar you can see the code 2076 - meaning a 20 inch bar requiring a chain with 76 links.
So, if you need to know the chain size that you need simply count the number of links or reference the saw bar itself.
Pitch
In short the pitch informs us how close the chain links are on a chain. If we measure the distance between three rivets and divide by two we find the measurement know as the pitch. Most non-commercial chainsaws, such as ParkerBrand, have a pitch of 0.325" or 3/8" (chain measurements are usually in imperial).
Gauge
This is the measurement that determines if a chain will fit into the bar so that it can travel safely around the bar. The chain gauge is the thickness of the drive links Too thin and it's likely to jump out which is of course very dangerous, too thick and it isn't going to move smoothly. Having the right gauge is essential. The gauge is usually measured in thousandths of an inch. ParkerBrand chains have a gauge of 0.058" or 1.5mm.
Example Case
Victor needs a new chain for his chain saw. He isn't sure what size it is, as the bar is well used an the code has worn. He's pretty sure that it's 18" but really isn't sure as he did have a 20" that he was using at one point. He can:
- Count the number of links on the chain and reference the manual or contact the manufacture.
- Measure the gauge and the pitch (some vernier callipers may be useful at this point)
- Measure the cutting length of the bar and check the manufactures website for the correct available corresponding chain.
Customer Care
We like to make sure that anyone that asks such questions can find an answer here. However, if you're a ParkerBrand customer (or you'd like to become one!) you are very welcome to call us on 01507 499198. Our team based in Louth, Lincolnshire, will be more than happy to help you with any query. It may be for a part for a machine you already have or to provide further information on one that you may be considering. We'll look forward to helping you.
