Stihl 028 Bar and Chain Size (5 Expert Tips for Perfect Fit)
Like a finely tuned engine, a chainsaw performs optimally when all its components work in perfect harmony. Nowhere is this truer than with the bar and chain. Over the years, I’ve seen countless chainsaws underperform, or even fail, simply because the wrong bar and chain combination was being used. In this guide, I want to share my expertise specifically on the Stihl 028, a workhorse chainsaw that, when properly equipped, can tackle a wide range of tasks. Getting the right bar and chain size is crucial for safety, efficiency, and extending the life of your saw. Let’s dive into my 5 expert tips for achieving that perfect fit.
Stihl 028 Bar and Chain Size: 5 Expert Tips for Perfect Fit
1. Understanding the Stihl 028’s Capabilities
The Stihl 028 is a mid-range chainsaw, popular for its versatility. Before even thinking about bar and chain sizes, it’s important to understand what this saw is capable of handling. The 028’s engine displacement typically falls between 44cc and 51cc, depending on the specific model (028, 028 Super, 028 Wood Boss). This range dictates the realistic bar length you can effectively use.
- Engine Displacement: 44cc – 51cc
- Ideal Bar Length: 16″ – 20″
Trying to run a bar that’s too long will bog down the engine, leading to overheating, reduced cutting speed, and potential damage. Conversely, a bar that’s too short might limit the saw’s potential and make certain tasks more difficult. My personal experience has shown that a 18″ bar is a sweet spot for most general-purpose work with the 028. It offers a good balance of maneuverability and cutting capacity.
2. Determining the Correct Bar Length
Choosing the right bar length is paramount. While the Stihl 028 can technically accommodate bars longer than 20″, I strongly advise against it for most users. The engine simply isn’t powerful enough to consistently drive a longer chain through dense wood without significant strain.
Here’s a breakdown of bar length recommendations based on typical applications:
- 16″ Bar: Ideal for limbing, pruning, and cutting small-diameter firewood (up to 12″ diameter). Offers excellent maneuverability in tight spaces.
- 18″ Bar: The “Goldilocks” size for the 028. Suitable for felling small to medium-sized trees (up to 16″ diameter), bucking firewood, and general-purpose use.
- 20″ Bar: Best suited for felling larger trees (up to 18″ diameter) and cutting larger firewood rounds. Requires more experience and careful technique to avoid bogging down the engine.
My Personalized Story: I remember once trying to fell a large oak tree with my Stihl 028 and a 20″ bar. While it technically could do it, the saw struggled significantly. The engine overheated, the chain bogged down repeatedly, and the overall process was slow and frustrating. I learned my lesson that day: respect the saw’s limitations.
Technical Data Point: Wood density plays a crucial role. Felling a 16″ diameter oak (a hardwood with a specific gravity of around 0.75) requires significantly more power than felling a 16″ diameter pine (a softwood with a specific gravity of around 0.45).
3. Matching the Chain to the Bar and Sprocket
Once you’ve determined the correct bar length, you need to ensure the chain is compatible. This involves understanding three key specifications:
- Pitch: The distance between any three consecutive rivets on the chain, divided by two. Common pitches are .325″, 3/8″ (0.375″), and .404″.
- Gauge: The thickness of the drive links that fit into the bar groove. Common gauges are .050″, .058″, and .063″.
- Drive Link Count: The total number of drive links on the chain. This is crucial for ensuring the chain fits properly on the bar.
The Stihl 028 typically uses a .325″ pitch chain with a .063″ gauge. However, it’s essential to always verify this information on your specific saw model and bar. The drive link count will vary depending on the bar length.
Here’s a table showing the typical drive link count for common Stihl 028 bar lengths with a .325″ pitch and .063″ gauge chain:
| Bar Length (Inches) | Drive Link Count (Approximate) |
|---|---|
| 16″ | 62 |
| 18″ | 68 |
| 20″ | 74 |
Important Note: Using the wrong chain pitch or gauge can damage the bar, sprocket, and even the saw’s engine. Always consult your Stihl 028’s owner’s manual or a reputable chainsaw dealer to confirm the correct chain specifications.
Case Study: In one of my projects, I was helping a local firewood producer optimize their cutting process. They were using a mix of Stihl 028s, and I noticed they were using the wrong chain gauge on one of the saws. This was causing excessive wear on the bar and sprocket, and the chain was constantly coming loose. By switching to the correct gauge chain, we significantly improved the saw’s performance and extended the life of the bar and sprocket.
4. Understanding Sprocket Compatibility
The sprocket is the toothed wheel that drives the chain. It’s crucial to ensure that the sprocket is compatible with the chain’s pitch. The Stihl 028 typically uses a .325″ pitch sprocket when used with a .325″ pitch chain.
- .325″ Pitch Sprocket: Compatible with .325″ pitch chains.
- 3/8″ Pitch Sprocket: Not compatible with .325″ pitch chains.
Important Note: Using the wrong pitch sprocket will damage the chain and potentially the saw’s engine. Always use the correct sprocket for your chain pitch.
Expert Tip: Consider replacing the sprocket when you replace the chain. A worn sprocket can prematurely wear out a new chain. Stihl recommends replacing the sprocket after every two chains.
5. Checking Bar Groove Width and Lubrication
The bar groove width must match the chain’s gauge. If the groove is too narrow, the chain will bind. If it’s too wide, the chain will wobble and potentially derail.
- .063″ Gauge Chain: Requires a bar with a .063″ groove width.
Regularly check the bar groove for wear and debris. Use a bar groove cleaner to remove sawdust and oil buildup.
Proper lubrication is essential for extending the life of the bar and chain. Always use a high-quality bar and chain oil, and ensure that the saw’s oiler is functioning correctly. I personally prefer synthetic bar and chain oil, especially in cold weather, as it flows more easily and provides better lubrication.
Technical Data Point: Insufficient lubrication can increase friction between the chain and bar by up to 50%, leading to premature wear and overheating.
My Personalized Story: I once neglected to check the oil level in my chainsaw and ran it for an extended period with insufficient lubrication. The bar quickly overheated, and the chain stretched and became dull. I ended up having to replace both the bar and chain, a costly mistake that could have been easily avoided with proper maintenance.
Additional Considerations for Stihl 028 Bar and Chain Selection
Beyond the core tips, here are some additional factors to consider when choosing a bar and chain for your Stihl 028:
- Chain Type: There are various chain types available, each designed for specific applications.
- Full Chisel: Aggressive cutting, best for clean wood. Requires more sharpening skill.
- Semi-Chisel: More forgiving, better for dirty or frozen wood.
- Low-Kickback: Designed for safety, ideal for inexperienced users.
- Bar Type:
- Laminated Bars: Lightweight and durable, suitable for most applications.
- Solid Bars: More durable but heavier, best for professional use.
- Sharpening: A sharp chain is a safe chain. Learn how to properly sharpen your chain or take it to a professional. A dull chain requires more force, increasing the risk of kickback and fatigue.
- Technical Data Point: A properly sharpened chain can cut up to 30% faster and consume 20% less fuel than a dull chain.
- Safety Gear: Always wear appropriate safety gear when operating a chainsaw, including:
- Eye Protection: Safety glasses or a face shield.
- Hearing Protection: Earplugs or earmuffs.
- Gloves: Heavy-duty work gloves.
- Chaps: Chainsaw-resistant chaps.
- Boots: Steel-toed boots.
Important Note: Safety should always be your top priority. Never operate a chainsaw without proper training and safety gear.
