120 Super Review: Dolmar Chainsaw Insights (Pro Tips & Fixes)

I once made a colossal blunder when I underestimated the true cost of a firewood project. I thought, “How hard can it be? A chainsaw, some elbow grease, and boom – winter warmth!” I didn’t factor in the worn-out chain I had to replace three times, the hidden permit fees, or the fact that my ‘free’ wood source was infested with wood-boring insects that required special treatment. The project ended up costing nearly twice my initial estimate! This experience taught me a valuable lesson: proper budgeting and understanding all the cost components are crucial for any wood processing or firewood preparation endeavor.

120 Super Review: Dolmar Chainsaw Insights (Pro Tips & Fixes) – A Cost-Conscious Guide

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Initial Investment: Finding the Right Dolmar 120 Super for Your Needs

The initial purchase price of a Dolmar 120 Super can vary significantly depending on its condition and location.

New: While the Dolmar 120 Super is no longer in production, you might find new-old-stock models available through specialized dealers or online marketplaces. Expect to pay anywhere from $500 to $800 for a new unit, depending on the dealer and any included accessories.
Used: Used Dolmar 120 Supers are readily available, but their condition can vary widely. Prices can range from $100 for a project saw needing significant repairs to $400 for a well-maintained unit in good working order.
Refurbished: Refurbished Dolmar 120 Supers offer a middle ground. These saws have been inspected and repaired by professionals, ensuring they are in good working condition. Prices typically fall between $300 and $600.

Cost Considerations:

Inspection: Always thoroughly inspect a used chainsaw before purchasing it. Check for signs of damage, wear, and tear, such as cracks in the housing, loose components, and excessive wear on the bar and chain.
Compression Test: Perform a compression test to assess the engine’s health. Low compression indicates worn piston rings or cylinder damage, which can lead to poor performance and costly repairs. A good compression reading for a Dolmar 120 Super should be around 120-140 PSI.
Parts Availability: While the Dolmar 120 Super is a popular chainsaw, parts availability can be a concern. Before purchasing a used saw, research the availability and cost of replacement parts in your area. Online retailers often carry a wide range of parts, but shipping costs can add up.
Bar and Chain: Factor in the cost of a new bar and chain if the existing ones are worn or damaged. A good quality bar and chain can cost between $50 and $100, depending on the size and type.

My Experience: I once bought a ‘bargain’ Dolmar 120 Super for $80, only to discover it needed a new piston, cylinder, and carburetor! The repair costs ended up exceeding the price of a refurbished unit. Lesson learned: a thorough inspection and understanding of potential repair costs are essential.

Fuel and Oil: The Ongoing Expenses of Operation

Fuel and oil are essential for running your Dolmar 120 Super, and their costs can add up over time.

Fuel: The Dolmar 120 Super requires a mixture of gasoline and 2-stroke oil. The recommended fuel-to-oil ratio is typically 40:1 or 50:1, depending on the manufacturer’s specifications and the type of oil used.
- Gasoline: Use high-quality gasoline with an octane rating of 87 or higher. Avoid using gasoline containing ethanol, as it can damage the engine components. As of October 2024, the average price of gasoline in the United States is around $3.50 per gallon. (Source: AAA Gas Prices)
- 2-Stroke Oil: Use a high-quality 2-stroke oil specifically designed for chainsaws. Synthetic oils offer better lubrication and protection than conventional oils. A gallon of synthetic 2-stroke oil can cost between $20 and $40.
Chain Oil: Chain oil is essential for lubricating the bar and chain, reducing friction and preventing premature wear. Use a high-quality chain oil specifically designed for chainsaws. A gallon of chain oil can cost between $15 and $30.

Cost Calculation:

Let’s assume you use your Dolmar 120 Super for 20 hours per month.

Fuel Consumption: The Dolmar 120 Super typically consumes around 0.5 gallons of fuel per hour.
Monthly Fuel Consumption: 20 hours x 0.5 gallons/hour = 10 gallons
Monthly Fuel Cost: 10 gallons x $3.50/gallon = $35
Monthly 2-Stroke Oil Cost: Assuming a 50:1 fuel-to-oil ratio, you’ll need 0.2 gallons of 2-stroke oil per month. 0.2 gallons x $30/gallon = $6
Monthly Chain Oil Consumption: 1 gallon of chain oil might last for 2 months (depending on the type of wood and the amount of cutting you do). Cost per month: $15
Total Monthly Fuel and Oil Cost: $35 + $6 + $15 = $56

Pro Tip: Buy fuel and oil in bulk to save money. Store fuel in airtight containers in a cool, dry place. Properly dispose of used oil according to local regulations.

My Experience: I once ran my chainsaw with cheap, low-quality 2-stroke oil. The engine quickly developed excessive carbon buildup, leading to poor performance and ultimately requiring a costly repair. Investing in high-quality fuel and oil is crucial for long-term engine health.

Maintenance: Keeping Your Dolmar 120 Super in Top Shape

Regular maintenance is essential for keeping your Dolmar 120 Super running smoothly and extending its lifespan. Neglecting maintenance can lead to costly repairs and downtime.

Air Filter: Clean the air filter regularly to prevent dust and debris from entering the engine. A dirty air filter can restrict airflow, leading to poor performance and engine damage. Air filters typically cost between $5 and $15.
Spark Plug: Replace the spark plug annually to ensure reliable ignition. A faulty spark plug can cause starting problems and poor performance. Spark plugs typically cost between $5 and $10.
Fuel Filter: Replace the fuel filter annually to prevent debris from clogging the carburetor. A clogged fuel filter can cause starting problems and poor performance. Fuel filters typically cost between $5 and $10.
Bar and Chain Maintenance: Regularly sharpen the chain to maintain optimal cutting performance. Use a chain file or a chain grinder to sharpen the chain. Inspect the bar for wear and damage, and replace it as needed. Bar and chain maintenance can cost between $10 and $30 per month, depending on the frequency of sharpening and the cost of replacement parts.
Carburetor Adjustment: Adjust the carburetor as needed to ensure proper fuel mixture. A properly adjusted carburetor will improve performance and fuel efficiency. Carburetor adjustment is a skill that requires some experience and knowledge. Consider taking your chainsaw to a qualified technician for carburetor adjustment. Carburetor rebuild kits can cost between $20 and $50.
Professional Servicing: Consider taking your Dolmar 120 Super to a qualified technician for professional servicing annually. A professional service can include a thorough inspection, cleaning, and tune-up. Professional servicing can cost between $50 and $150.

Cost Calculation:

Annual Air Filter Replacement: $10
Annual Spark Plug Replacement: $7
Annual Fuel Filter Replacement: $7
Annual Bar and Chain Maintenance: $240 (assuming $20/month)
Professional Servicing (every 2 years): $100 (averaged over 2 years = $50/year)

Total Annual Maintenance Cost: $10 + $7 + $7 + $240 + $50 = $314

Pro Tip: Learn how to perform basic maintenance tasks yourself to save money. There are many online resources and tutorials available to help you learn how to clean the air filter, replace the spark plug, sharpen the chain, and adjust the carburetor.

My Experience: I neglected to clean the air filter on my chainsaw for too long, and the engine overheated and seized. The repair cost was significant. Regular maintenance is a small price to pay for preventing major problems.

Repairs: Addressing the Inevitable Breakdowns

Even with regular maintenance, your Dolmar 120 Super may require repairs from time to time. The cost of repairs can vary depending on the nature of the problem and the cost of replacement parts.

Common Repairs: Some common repairs for the Dolmar 120 Super include:
- Carburetor Problems: Carburetor problems can cause starting problems, poor performance, and fuel inefficiency. Carburetor rebuild kits can cost between $20 and $50.
- Ignition Problems: Ignition problems can cause starting problems and engine misfires. Ignition coils typically cost between $30 and $60.
- Piston and Cylinder Damage: Piston and cylinder damage can be caused by overheating, lack of lubrication, or using the wrong fuel mixture. Piston and cylinder kits can cost between $100 and $300.
- Fuel System Problems: Fuel system problems can be caused by clogged fuel lines, a faulty fuel pump, or a damaged fuel tank. Fuel lines and fuel pumps typically cost between $10 and $30.
Labor Costs: If you are not comfortable performing repairs yourself, you will need to factor in labor costs. Labor rates for chainsaw repair typically range from $50 to $100 per hour.

Cost Estimation:

Repair costs can vary widely depending on the severity of the problem. Here are some estimated costs for common repairs:

Carburetor Rebuild: $50 – $150 (including parts and labor)
Ignition Coil Replacement: $80 – $150 (including parts and labor)
Piston and Cylinder Replacement: $200 – $500 (including parts and labor)
Fuel System Repair: $50 – $150 (including parts and labor)

Pro Tip: Learn how to diagnose common chainsaw problems yourself. There are many online resources and tutorials available to help you troubleshoot problems and determine the cause. This can save you money on diagnostic fees.

My Experience: I once saved a significant amount of money by diagnosing and repairing a carburetor problem on my chainsaw myself. I watched a few online tutorials and was able to rebuild the carburetor with a kit I purchased for $30.

Safety Gear: Protecting Yourself While Working

Safety gear is essential for protecting yourself while operating a chainsaw. Never operate a chainsaw without wearing appropriate safety gear.

Helmet: A helmet provides protection for your head in case of falling branches or kickback. Helmets typically cost between $30 and $100.
Eye Protection: Eye protection, such as safety glasses or a face shield, protects your eyes from flying debris. Eye protection typically costs between $10 and $30.
Hearing Protection: Hearing protection, such as earplugs or earmuffs, protects your ears from the loud noise of the chainsaw. Hearing protection typically costs between $10 and $30.
Gloves: Gloves protect your hands from cuts and abrasions. Gloves typically cost between $10 and $30.
Chainsaw Chaps: Chainsaw chaps protect your legs from cuts in case of accidental contact with the chain. Chainsaw chaps typically cost between $50 and $150.
Steel-Toed Boots: Steel-toed boots protect your feet from falling logs and other hazards. Steel-toed boots typically cost between $50 and $200.

Cost Calculation:

Helmet: $50
Eye Protection: $20
Hearing Protection: $20
Gloves: $20
Chainsaw Chaps: $100
Steel-Toed Boots: $100

Total Safety Gear Cost: $50 + $20 + $20 + $20 + $100 + $100 = $310

Pro Tip: Invest in high-quality safety gear that fits properly and is comfortable to wear. Replace safety gear as needed when it becomes worn or damaged.

My Experience: I once had a close call when a branch kicked back and struck my helmet. Without the helmet, I would have suffered a serious head injury. Safety gear is not optional; it’s essential.

Permits and Licenses: Navigating the Regulatory Landscape

Depending on your location and the type of wood processing or firewood preparation you are doing, you may need to obtain permits or licenses.

Logging Permits: If you are harvesting timber from public lands, you will likely need to obtain a logging permit. The cost of logging permits can vary depending on the location and the amount of timber you are harvesting.
Firewood Permits: Some areas require permits for collecting firewood from public lands. The cost of firewood permits can vary depending on the location and the amount of firewood you are collecting.
Business Licenses: If you are selling firewood or providing wood processing services, you may need to obtain a business license. The cost of business licenses can vary depending on the location and the type of business you are operating.

Cost Estimation:

The cost of permits and licenses can vary widely depending on your location and the type of work you are doing. Contact your local government agencies to determine the specific requirements and costs in your area.

Pro Tip: Research the permit and licensing requirements in your area before starting any wood processing or firewood preparation project. Failure to obtain the necessary permits and licenses can result in fines and penalties.

My Experience: I once started a firewood business without obtaining the proper business license. I was fined $500 and had to shut down my business until I obtained the necessary license.

Labor Costs: Valuing Your Time (or Someone Else’s)

If you are hiring someone to help you with wood processing or firewood preparation, you will need to factor in labor costs.

Logging Crew: If you are hiring a logging crew to harvest timber, the cost of labor will depend on the size of the crew, the type of equipment they are using, and the amount of timber they are harvesting. Logging crew rates typically range from $500 to $2000 per day.
Firewood Handlers: If you are hiring someone to help you with firewood preparation, the cost of labor will depend on the amount of work they are doing and their hourly rate. Firewood handler rates typically range from $15 to $30 per hour.

Cost Calculation:

Let’s assume you hire someone to help you with firewood preparation for 4 hours per day, 5 days per week.

Hourly Rate: $20
Daily Labor Cost: 4 hours x $20/hour = $80
Weekly Labor Cost: 5 days x $80/day = $400
Monthly Labor Cost: 4 weeks x $400/week = $1600

Pro Tip: Consider the value of your own time when calculating labor costs. Even if you are not paying yourself an hourly wage, your time has value. Factor in the time you spend on wood processing or firewood preparation when determining the overall cost of the project.

My Experience: I used to underestimate the value of my own time when calculating the cost of firewood preparation. I would spend hours cutting, splitting, and stacking firewood, but I wouldn’t factor in the value of my time. I realized that I could make more money doing other things, so I started hiring someone to help me with firewood preparation.

Tool Costs: Beyond the Chainsaw

While the Dolmar 120 Super is a key tool, other tools are often necessary for wood processing and firewood preparation.

Axe or Maul: An axe or maul is used for splitting wood. Axes typically cost between $30 and $100. Mauls typically cost between $50 and $150.
Wedges: Wedges are used to split logs that are too large to split with an axe or maul. Wedges typically cost between $10 and $30 each.
Log Splitter: A log splitter is used to split large quantities of wood quickly and efficiently. Log splitters can be either manual or powered. Manual log splitters typically cost between $100 and $300. Powered log splitters typically cost between $1000 and $5000.
Measuring Tools: Measuring tools, such as a measuring tape and a log scale, are used to measure logs and firewood. Measuring tools typically cost between $10 and $30.
Transportation: You’ll need a way to transport the wood. This could be a pickup truck, trailer, or even just a wheelbarrow. The cost will depend on what you already own, and what you need to buy or rent. A good used pickup truck can be found for around $5,000 – $15,000, while a small utility trailer might cost $500 – $1,500. Renting a truck or trailer could cost $50 – $100 per day.

Cost Calculation:

Axe: $50
Wedges: $30
Log Splitter (rental for a weekend): $150
Measuring Tools: $20
Transportation (fuel for pickup truck): $50

Total Additional Tool Cost (for a specific project): $50 + $30 + $150 + $20 + $50 = $300

Pro Tip: Consider renting tools instead of buying them, especially if you only need them for occasional use. Tool rental can save you money on the initial purchase price and maintenance costs.

My Experience: I initially bought a cheap log splitter, but it quickly broke down. I ended up renting a high-quality log splitter, which was much more efficient and reliable. I realized that it was more cost-effective to rent a good tool than to buy a cheap one.

Transportation Costs: Getting the Wood Where It Needs to Go

Transportation costs can be a significant factor in the overall cost of wood processing and firewood preparation.

Fuel Costs: Fuel costs will depend on the distance you are transporting the wood and the fuel efficiency of your vehicle. As mentioned earlier, the average price of gasoline in the United States is around $3.50 per gallon.
Vehicle Maintenance: Vehicle maintenance costs will depend on the type of vehicle you are using and the amount of wear and tear it is subjected to.
Rental Fees: If you are renting a truck or trailer, you will need to factor in rental fees.

Cost Calculation:

Let’s assume you need to transport 2 cords of firewood 50 miles.

Fuel Efficiency: 15 miles per gallon
Distance: 50 miles (each way) x 2 = 100 miles
Fuel Consumption: 100 miles / 15 miles per gallon = 6.67 gallons
Fuel Cost: 6.67 gallons x $3.50/gallon = $23.35
Vehicle Wear and Tear: Let’s estimate $0.10 per mile for wear and tear. 100 miles x $0.10/mile = $10

Total Transportation Cost: $23.35 + $10 = $33.35

Pro Tip: Optimize your transportation routes to minimize fuel consumption and wear and tear on your vehicle. Combine trips whenever possible.

My Experience: I used to make multiple trips to transport firewood, which wasted time and fuel. I started using a larger trailer, which allowed me to transport more firewood in a single trip. This saved me time and money.

Drying Time and Storage Costs: The Long Game

Drying firewood is crucial for efficient burning and reducing creosote buildup in your chimney. However, drying takes time and space, which can translate to costs.

Drying Time: The amount of time it takes to dry firewood depends on the type of wood, the climate, and the storage conditions. Hardwoods typically take longer to dry than softwoods. In general, firewood should be dried for at least 6 months, and preferably 12 months, before burning.
Storage Space: You will need a place to store the firewood while it is drying. This could be a woodshed, a covered pile, or even just an open pile.
Storage Materials: You may need to purchase materials to build a woodshed or cover your firewood pile.

Cost Estimation:

Woodshed Construction: A simple woodshed can be built for $200 – $500, depending on the size and materials used.
Tarp: A tarp to cover a firewood pile can cost between $20 and $50.
Land Usage: If you’re using land solely for firewood storage, consider the opportunity cost. What else could you be using that space for? This is harder to quantify but important to acknowledge.

Calculating Drying Time:

Drying time is affected by wood species and moisture content. Generally, hardwoods like oak and maple need 6-12 months to dry properly. Softwoods like pine can dry faster. Moisture meters, costing $20-$50, are valuable tools for assessing dryness. A moisture content below 20% is ideal for burning.

Pro Tip: Stack firewood in a well-ventilated area to promote drying. Cover the top of the pile to protect it from rain and snow, but leave the sides open to allow for airflow.

My Experience: I once burned firewood that was not properly dried, and it produced a lot of smoke and creosote. I learned that it is important to dry firewood thoroughly before burning it.

Case Study: Budgeting a Firewood Project

Let’s consider a case study of a homeowner who wants to prepare 5 cords of firewood for the winter.

Assumptions:

The homeowner already owns a Dolmar 120 Super chainsaw and basic safety gear.
The homeowner will be harvesting the wood from their own property.
The homeowner will be doing all of the work themselves.
The homeowner will need to rent a log splitter for a weekend.
The homeowner will need to purchase fuel and oil.
The homeowner will need to transport the firewood a short distance.

Cost Breakdown:

Log Splitter Rental: $150
Fuel and Oil: $100
Transportation: $50
Maintenance: $50 (for chain sharpening and minor repairs)

Total Cost: $150 + $100 + $50 + $50 = $350

Cost Per Cord: $350 / 5 cords = $70 per cord

Comparison to Market Price:

The average price of a cord of firewood varies depending on the location and the type of wood. As of October 2024, the average price of a cord of mixed hardwood firewood in the United States is around $250. (Source: Local Firewood Suppliers)

Savings:

By preparing their own firewood, the homeowner can save approximately $180 per cord ($250 – $70). For 5 cords, the total savings would be $900.

Important Considerations:

This is just a simplified example. The actual cost of preparing firewood can vary depending on the specific circumstances. It is important to carefully consider all of the costs involved before starting a firewood project.

Pro Tips for Cost Optimization

Source Free or Low-Cost Wood: Look for sources of free or low-cost wood, such as fallen trees on your property, storm damage, or wood scraps from construction sites.
Buy Fuel and Oil in Bulk: Buy fuel and oil in bulk to save money.
Perform Regular Maintenance: Perform regular maintenance on your chainsaw and other tools to prevent costly repairs.
Sharpen Your Own Chains: Learn how to sharpen your own chains to save money on sharpening services.
Rent Tools Instead of Buying: Rent tools instead of buying them, especially if you only need them for occasional use.
Optimize Transportation: Optimize your transportation routes to minimize fuel consumption and wear and tear on your vehicle.
Dry Firewood Properly: Dry firewood properly to improve burning efficiency and reduce creosote buildup.
Sell Excess Firewood: Sell any excess firewood to recoup some of your costs.
Consider a Co-op: Team up with neighbors to share tools and labor.

Actionable Takeaways

Thoroughly assess the condition of any used Dolmar 120 Super before purchasing.
Factor in the ongoing costs of fuel, oil, and maintenance.
Invest in high-quality safety gear.
Research permit and licensing requirements in your area.
Consider the value of your own time when calculating labor costs.
Explore cost-saving strategies such as sourcing free wood, buying in bulk, and performing regular maintenance.

Next Steps

Determine your needs: How much wood do you need to process, and what size logs will you be working with?
Assess your budget: How much are you willing to spend on a chainsaw and related equipment?
Research local regulations: Find out about any permits or licenses required for wood processing in your area.
Shop around: Compare prices on new, used, and refurbished Dolmar 120 Supers.
Develop a detailed budget: Include all of the costs discussed in this article.
Start your project!

By carefully considering all of the costs involved and following these tips, you can successfully budget for your wood processing or firewood preparation project and enjoy the warmth and satisfaction of a job well done, without breaking the bank! Remember, a little planning goes a long way. Just like learning from my initial firewood fiasco, being prepared is half the battle.

120 Super Review: Dolmar Chainsaw Insights (Pro Tips & Fixes)