C-51 noob setup questions

[frizzen]

I just picked up a running C-51 (1813926) to become the 'Big saw' in a little suburban fleet, i was wondering how you guys usually like to set them up? I'm not doing logging, it should just be some occasional use when i want something bigger than my Husqvarna 435, or Homelite 330, but don't yet need to get out the 2-man crosscut saws.

How long of a bar is a C51 actually comfortable pulling, preferably without needing skip chain? I'd rather avoid getting into "Well, i guess it COULD pull that..." i know Acres site said some of them came with a 30", but was there still enough power left to chew through hardwood? What do you consider a good balance?

Is there a muffler that'll tone down the factory straight pipe a little? I'm already gonna be wearing muffs anyway, but it might be nice to hear someone trying to yell some warning at me. Or maybe just not getting the neighbors too mad.

It's also my first manual oiler, how often do you usually pump? I know when it gets dry the saw has to pull harder, so i'm guossing there's some tone change to the engine? Cutting speed slows?

[undee70ss]

Yes there are quite mufflers available. On my manual oiler only saws, I slowly keep pushing the button anytime its cutting. I don't know on bar length, when I need something bigger I always go right for the S1050 or 750.

[xl130]

My C-51 has a 24” .404 pitch chain. It work well with that size bar. I actually like the original stack muffler. It’s very loud, but that’s half the fun of running these old saws!

[stillsawing]

I just recently picked up a C-52 at a local auction, it came with a decent 24" hard tip bar and 3/8 pitch chain. Having a new roll of 3/8 chisel chain sitting on the shelve, I'll leave it at that.