Q. What is "Pitch" and "Gauge" of my chainsaw?

A. The pitch of a chain refers to the distance between its drive links.

It is determined by measuring the distance between any three consecutive drive links and dividing by two. Example: 3/4" divided by 2 = 3/8". Sometimes pitch is expressed as a fraction: 3/8" and sometimes it is expressed as a decimal: .404".

The gauge of a chain refers to the thickness of its drive links.

It is determined by measuring the portion of the drive link that fits into the groove of the guide bar. It is usually expressed in thousandths of an inch: ie .050" or .063".

Thicker drive links are usually stronger, but they are heavier. Weight affects performance, and to maximize cutting speed, weight should be kept to a minimum. The rule usually is: Run the lightest gauge chain that stays together and gives you decent service life.

Q. My Chainsaw wont start from cold with choke on, it fires but wont start?

A.  Starting a cold Chainsaw

Start the saw on the ground, place it on a flat surface. Remove the guide bar cover and make sure the guide bar is clear from obstacles that may hook up in the chain when the saw starts. 

1. Activate the chain brake.
2. Press the decompression control (on certain models) and pull and lock the throttle.
3. Activate the choke. If the saw is equipped with Air Purge/fuel pump, press the bulb a few times until the fuel becomes visible and enters the carburettor.
4.Start on the ground: Support with your right foot in the rear handle and keep a firm grip on the front handle with your left hand.
5. Pull the starter handle with your right hand. Repeat until the engine fires.
6. Deactivate the choke and pull the starter until the saw starts.
7. Accelerate so that the engine idles and then release the chain brake.