Chain Selection

[snoghost13]

This seems like a dumb question but the more I look at chains, the more confused I become.

What are the basic measurements that you need to look for when buying a chain loop?

Example: I have an XL-12 with 20" bar
OregonChain.com shows I need a D70 chain if I look under homeowners but under professionals it calls for a 72V070G. Now both chains say they are 70 drive links 3/8" pitch 0.050 gauge and use a 7/32" file. From what I can tell, those are the same chain with different part numbers since they are both Vanguard chains. I really don't like the rakers on the D70 which is what most stores carry so I was looking to buy one online.

Will the Oregon LP series chain work if the drive links pitch and gauge are the same or do the pitch and drive link count change from chain to chain?

[MCS]

To start with you need to know three basic things:

• Chain pitch - 3/8" pitch or .375 pitch is the most popular. The drive sprocket determines this and if there is a bar nose sprocket it has to match.
  
• Chain length - This depends on the bar length and the # teeth in the drive sprocket so your XL-12 needs 70 drive links.
  
• Chain gauge - This is the thickness of the drive links. .050", .058" and .063" are the most common. The gauge has to match the width of the groove in the bar.
  

If your XL-12 had been converted to .325 pitch chain then a 20" bar would have about 81 drive links.
There are several styles of cutters and some are geared more toward the professional user and most homeowner chain has some type of kick-back prevention built into the design.
Cutter shape can be rounded, which is chipper chain, or square shaped with is chisel chain. Of course there are lots of variations.

[snoghost13]

Thanks MCS..... It's confusing why they wouldn't list ALL the chains they make that will fit the saw in the application guide. Makes a person think that only one chain will fit the saw.

Is there a way to measure the drive sprocket and a sprocket tip bar to find the pitch and make sure they match?

I was given a C5 that I'm hoping to get up and running but it does not have a bar or chain. I was given a 36" sprocket nose bar a few years ago I thought would be a great match for that saw but need to find the pitch of the drives sprocket to get a chain and the bar is a universal so I also need to find out what pitch the sprocket nose is.