Round chain filing

[t4driller]

I'm doing some hand filing with a old file n joint. ( think that's what they are called) getting some chains ready for the pa gtg. I purchased this unit at a yard sale for 25 cents and really like it. I'm filing stihl chisel chain with a 3/16 round file. How's it look? What do you think I should set the depth gauges at? It will be on a ported 361 with 20 inch bar.

 

[angelo c]

Is that a new file ?
I can't see too much in the way of shavings coming off the tooth.

 

[Brewz]

It looks good.
Keep the file down as low as possible to keep a nice hook on the tooth
Try and get the gullet out and make it nice and smooth

Here are some 3/8 chains I did recently





Edit: I think that bottom one is 404

 

[t4driller]

Is that a new file ?
I can't see too much in the way of shavings coming off the tooth.

Yea it's a new file. I hit it with compressed air so you could see it good.

 

[t4driller]

It looks good.
Keep the file down as low as possible to keep a nice hook on the tooth
Try and get the gullet out and make it nice and smooth

Here are some 3/8 chains I did recently

View attachment 37591

View attachment 37592

Edit: I think that bottom one is 404

Looks nice. Real nice. What size file you using??

 

[Brewz]

3/16
I took the gullets out with my dremel

 

[Magic_Man]

Are you guys using 3/16 files on 3/8 chain to get more hook ? I assume to make them faster for gtg chains ?

 

[t4driller]

Are you guys using 3/16 files on 3/8 chain to get more hook ? I assume to make them faster for gtg chains ?

Yes. I use them for normal everyday cutting also. I have 7/32 files that I've used also. Seems like the 3/16 is faster but dulls quicker.

 

[t4driller]

3/16
I took the gullets out with my dremel

How does it hold up in your iron wood over there. Is that an everyday chain or a fun / go fast chain.

 

[Brewz]

It holds up ok but I find I need to sharpen every tank of fuel or 2 depending on the timber no mater how I sharpen them.
I did do those chains up extra sharp, put a bit more work into them than usual, brush them and they cut you open
I run the rakers at .025ish

 

[Wolverine]

I experimented with more hook before I learned to square file. It didn't hold up very well in my experience. If it stays in clean softwood it should be good. Square is where it's at...
Here's a pic messing around with the Timberline.

 

[junkman]

Those outside corners look real fragile ,like the littlest bit of dirt would kill them ?
How grabby are those chains with that much hook on them ?

 

[jakethesnake]

I do round only I'll grab a picture next time I'm out

 

[junkman]

This is all the hook i run if do a round .lasts longer and smoother running

 

[Gunn]

Keep in mind if you throw a ton of hook into your chain, you're eroding the side plate more than normal and as a result your chain will reach its end of life sooner.

 

[David Young]

This method holds up well you just compensate with the rakers for self feed.
It's more like what makes square cut better.

 

[David Young]

This the easy way to do chains.

The file holder helps. The company is top notch

 

[junkman]

This method holds up well you just compensate with the rakers for self feed.
It's more like what makes square cut better.

How much rake you run .030 ?

 

[David Young]

How much rake you run .030 ?

I use the gauge to keep it somewhat even then give a very scientific extra swipe and occasionally the extra extra swipe.
I don't know how my chains are compared to others but they seem smooth, self feed and make chips so alright I guess.

David

 

[junkman]

I use the gauge to keep it somewhat even then give a very scientific extra swipe and occasionally the extra extra swipe.
I don't know how my chains are compared to others but they seem smooth, self feed and make chips so alright I guess.

David

When my chips get over an inch long i do 2 swipes on the rakes is my method .