Woods Ported Chainsaws (Explained)
A woods ported chainsaw refers to a chainsaw that has been modified to improve airflow and engine performance. Porting is the process of reshaping and smoothing out the inlet and exhaust ports on a 2-stroke engine to allow more efficient flow of the air/fuel mixture.
On a standard chainsaw, the inlet and exhaust ports have relatively sharp edges and corners that can restrict airflow. By porting the engine, these edges are smoothed and rounded to allow the air/fuel mixture to enter and exit the combustion chamber more freely.
Porting the engine can lead to several key benefits:
- Increased engine power and torque output
- Improved throttle response
- Higher maximum revolutions per minute (RPMs)
- Cooler running temperatures
- Extended engine life due to less stress on components
For chainsaw users, these performance gains can translate to faster cutting times, ability to use longer guide bars, and handling larger diameter wood.
In this comprehensive guide, we will cover everything you need to know about woods ported chainsaws, including:
What is Porting?
Porting refers to the process of reshaping and smoothing the intake and exhaust ports in a 2-stroke engine to improve airflow. As mentioned above, stock chainsaw engines often have relatively uneven, rough port surfaces from the factory.
When machining a port:
- Sharp edges are rounded off
- Corners are smoothed out
- Flashings or burrs are removed
- The port is enlarged and reshaped
This helps provide a smoother path for the air/fuel mixture to enter and exit the cylinder. In a woods ported chainsaw, special attention is paid to improving ports and airflow to maximize performance.
Key Areas Improved by Porting
On the intake side, the choke point around the inlet manifold is opened up to allow more mixture flow. The intake duration (the amount of time the intake port is open) may also be increased.
On the exhaust side, the exhaust port is smoothed and reshaped to avoid flow restrictions. The exhaust duration is often increased as well.
An experienced porter will understand the intricacies of port shape and timing and how to optimize them for a particular engine. This is where the “art” of porting comes into play.
Benefits of a Woods Ported Chainsaw
So why would you want a woods ported chainsaw? Let’s look at some of the key benefits:
Increased Power
By improving airflow and engine efficiency, a ported saw can gain 10-20% or more power compared to stock. The power band is also extended, providing strong acceleration for longer.
Better Throttle Response
The improved intake and exhaust flow from porting allows the engine to react more quickly and smoothly to throttle inputs. This gives you better control and feel.
Higher Maximum RPM
Porting removes flow restrictions that were limiting max RPM. By increasing the engine’s breathing, ported chainsaws can reach higher maximum speeds.
Cooler Operating Temps
The improved airflow allows more effective cooling, preventing overheating issues. This helps minimize wear and extends engine life.
Handles Larger Bar Lengths
The extra power enables running larger guide bars (20″+) that can handle bigger wood. Stock saws often lack the grunt for bars over 18-20″.
Longer Engine Life
By reducing friction and running cooler, a ported engine experiences less stress and wear over time. This can add many hours to the operating life if maintained properly.
As you can see, there are some compelling benefits to having your chainsaw ported rather than stock. The performance gains can be substantial if done properly.
Woods vs Standard Porting
You may also see porting referred to in different ways, such as:
- Standard porting
- Stage 1 porting
- Woods ported (or woods ported stage 2)
Standard porting involves basic smoothing, rounding, and opening up of the ports to remove glaring restrictions. This improves flow and power over a stock saw.
Woods porting takes it a step further for maximum gains. The ports are extensively reshaped and enlarged to optimize engine performance specifically for wood cutting applications. More precise machining is done to the combustion chamber, inlet tract, and exhaust outlet.
The name comes from the logging industry where optimal chainsaw power and reliability are essential. Companies like Pioneer/Partner and Husqvarna also have their own branded porting protocols.
So in short, a “woods ported” chainsaw refers to an aggressively ported saw optimized for demanding timber falling/forestry work. The engine is modified without restrictions to achieve every bit of power from the displacement.
Finding a Good Porting Service
Having your stock chainsaw ported is an involved process best left to experienced professionals. Here are tips for finding a good porting service:
Research Reputable Shops
Look for shops specializing in performance chainsaw modifications rather than general mechanics. Seek out recommendations from local arborists, loggers, and forums.
Evaluate Examples of Their Work
A quality porting service should be able to provide before/after dynamometer test results quantifying power gains. Ask to see photos or videos of finished port work.
Understand Their Process
Ask detailed questions about their methods, equipment used, porting philosophy, etc. Make sure to clarify if engine disassembly/reassembly is included and warranted.
Consider Cost
Pricing often ranges from $200 – $400+ depending on extent of port work performed. While cost is a consideration, avoid choosing based on price alone.
Verify Warranty Coverage
Most shops offer warranties on port work for 30-90 days. Ensure any related engine damage is covered if a defect arises.
Taking the time to vet providers helps ensure you get quality, reliable porting work that delivers the promised benefits. Rushing into cheap or sloppy porting can risk reducing engine life if not done properly.
Breaking in a Ported Chainsaw Engine
Once you get your saw back from the porting service, following a proper break-in procedure is critical before putting it into regular use. Here are tips:
Run at 50% Load First
For initial tank, run saw at 50% throttle load only to begin seating the rings without excess heat/pressure.
Vary Operating Speed
Gradually cycle between 50-100% throttle over next few tanks to ensure even seating while avoiding sustained high RPMs initially.
Change Oil After 1-2 Tanks
Used break-in oil will contain more metal shavings and debris so change oil after 1-2 tanks.
Let Cool Between Uses
Allow saw to completely cool before next use to avoid overheating during break-in.
Adjust Carb if Needed
The porting may require a carburetor adjustment for proper air/fuel mix. Fine tune as needed.
Take the time to break-in properly or you risk engine damage, shortened life, and even immediate failure in a worst case. Once past initial tanks, a ported saw should deliver reliable, high-performance use.
Maintenance Tips for Ported Saws
While porting offers substantial performance benefits, it also places greater demands on the engine. Here are tips for maintaining a ported saw:
Use High Quality Oil/Fuel Mix
Premium oils and fresh fuel help minimize wear and build-up from the increased heat and pressure.
Stay On Top of Air Filter Cleaning
Check and clean air filter more frequently than normal to prevent debris ingestion into the optimized ports.
Inspect Spark Plug Often
The increased demands also accelerate spark plug fouling and wear so replace more often than normal.
Tuned Pipe Maintenance
If running an aftermarket tuned pipe, check frequently for dents/damage which can alter the tuned effect.
Let Cool & Warm Up Properly
Always allow enough cool down time between uses and do not exceed idle RPMs until fully warmed up.
Replace Bearings/Seals Pre-Emptively
Upgraded bearings and seals are worthwhile upgrades to handle the extra vibration and pressures without failing prematurely.
By being diligent about preventative maintenance and using quality accessories, a ported engine can deliver reliable service for years to come. Neglect will shorten its lifespan.
Risks of Porting a Chainsaw
While a properly ported chainsaw can significantly outperform a stock model, there are some inherent risks to porting that should be considered as well:
Potential Engine Damage
Extensive porting done poorly can weaken engine structure, distort ports, and cause scuffing/scoring failure.
Decreased Reliability
Asking more from an engine also increases the likelihood of mechanical issues if not maintained vigilantly.
Premature Wear
The extreme stresses accelerate component fatigue if not running premium oils and parts.
Poor Idle Quality
Aggressive timing changes can cause uneven idling.
Added Expense
There is a substantial initial investment required for machining and upgraded components to support the performance.
Voided Warranty
Any factory powertrain coverage is voided when modifying the engine.
For the right application, a woods ported chainsaw can be extremely beneficial. But for occasional users or smaller saws, the risks and downsides may outweigh potential gains. Consider your usage levels and engine quality before porting.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can any chainsaw be ported?
Technically yes, but smaller “homeowner” grade saws usually lack the fundamental engine quality to benefit substantially or reliably from aggressive porting. Stick to professional models.
What size saw is best for porting?
Saws in the 60cc-90cc range tend to respond very well to porting in terms of reliability and performance gains. Smaller saws risk damage, while larger ones already breathe well.
How long does porting take?
The complete porting process can take 15-25 hours in total per saw when done properly. This includes disassembly, machining, cleaning, inspection, reassembly, and testing. Quick 1-2 hour jobs likely won’t deliver the same results.
Can I port my chainsaw myself?
While an experienced mechanic could port a saw themselves, as a beginner it is NOT recommended. The precise machining and engine nuances are very complex compared to basic maintenance. Leave it to the professionals without proper porting knowledge.
How much maintenance does a ported saw need?
As covered earlier, the increased stresses of a ported engine demand more frequent component inspections, oil changes, filter cleanings, etc to ensure maximum reliability and prevent premature failures. Budget extra maintenance time.
What should I pay for good port work?
Expect to pay $250-$400+ for professional quality woods porting service, depending on extent of machining needed for your model. Upgraded parts often needed add more cost. Beware discounts below $200.
Will porting void my chainsaw warranty?
Yes, any engine modifications will void any remaining factory warranty coverage. Many porting shops offer their own short-term warranties on the work, but understand that any engine issues down the road may incur repair costs.
Is porting worth it?
For professional chainsaw users that rely on maximum cutting performance and lowest failure risk, a properly ported saw is well worth the investment. More casual users may be better off with a stock professional model saw that’s properly maintained.
