OP
Stihl 026
- Thread starter schoolsout
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Super Member
Bar length has more to do with what the saw will pull with a fully buried bar. Some saws are marginal as they go up in length when the above happens. For what you are cutting, try out what is on the saw and see how you like it. If it suffices, you won't have to do anything. About the 3/8th .325 discussion. Manufacturers put on the saw what they think is the best combination for what the saw will be the most capable with. I have heard the comparisons between some saws cutting better with the larger chain but I would want to know all the variables. Some saws find their power band more readily with a larger chain but I have seen saws turn into cutting monsters with a reduced pitch size but not too many the other way around with smaller saws. I'd use the saw the way it is. You are not going to pick up that much speed going from 20 to 18 but as the saw gets buried, that is when you'll see a bit better performance with a smaller bar and a slightly different balance point that will only come into effect after prolonged use of the saw.. Great looking saw for the money.
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schoolsout
Veteran Member
Thanks, y'all. The 20" is just too long for us, imo. I kept it and will try it out one day, but I just see it being a tad bit cumbersome.
cqaigy2
Super Member
Very nice, especially for the price! :thumbsup:
Redbug
Veteran Member
I bought a brand new 026 about 25 years ago. It is still my main wood cutting saw. I was using it last week. Stihl runs like new, (pun). Looking at your pictures I have to agree with Furu...that saw was an unbelievable deal. I did not know you could find an old saw in such good shape like that anymore. Bailey's has carb parts, sprockets and such for it.
I have 16 and 18 inch bars for it. Both bars are hardnose, (non-sprocket type), and made for handling dirtier conditions.
Great buy!
I have 16 and 18 inch bars for it. Both bars are hardnose, (non-sprocket type), and made for handling dirtier conditions.
Great buy!
RobertN
Super Member
I still use an 024, that my dad got new in '80-84; not sure exactly. I have always like the ergonomics and balance of the 024/026 saws. I have a basket case I need to get working on too, a little newer 024.
OP
schoolsout
Veteran Member
Any way to tell when the saw was made using the serial number? I'd be interested in knowing just how old it is.
LD1
Epic Contributor
I dont think there is anything published online about serial # breakdowns or model years. Maybe someone more versed in stihl can help, but I am sure a call to a local stihl dealer and he should be able to tell you.:thumbsup:
You might want to replace the fuel pickup body and lines as well as the oil tank lines not knowing how well it has been taken care of. No point in letting your new saw suffer from the lines if they have been abused. They are not that expensive and many replace the pickup body once a year as routine mx.