Makita 6401 bar and chain

[wolfjon]

Hey guys I am using a HD makita 6401 that I picked up recently and have cut up about 5 cords so far and loving the extra power. I am definatly more of a weekend warrior type when it comes to chainsaws, use it a bunch for the season then I may not pick it up again until next year.
What is a good replacement bar to put on? Th current bar is still OK but it has had its fair share of abuse, I took a file and cleaned it up good enough for this years cutting but it would be nice to pick up another 20" and keep this as a backup. How are the OEM dolmar/makita bars vs aftermarket? I also need a good chain. I am using the chains they gave with the saw but they are just throw away chains that seem to dull easily, and I know do not let them touch dirt and don't push the saw for chain life and keep the oiler running good. right not I am running a 3/8 .050 72.
Thanks,
Wolfjon

 

[striperswaper]

check out Bailey's good service, prices, selection guide...

 

[Ductape]

Your selection is wide open since they use the same bar mount as the large Husky.

 

[wolfjon]

I know about Baileys and have been on there a few time since I picked up the 6401 but I am really wondering are the aftermarket bars better then the OEM Dolmar bars? I can buy either I am just wondering were my money would be better spent. I know alot of people prefer the OEM stihl bars on stihl's but I do not see many dolmars running OEM bars.

How about chains advice for someone who only cut 5-6 cords at a time. I want something fairly well matched to the saw's power output. not to aggresive but not something that takes forever to cut because of safety.

 

[REJ2]

I know about Baileys and have been on there a few time since I picked up the 6401 but I am really wondering are the aftermarket bars better then the OEM Dolmar bars? I can buy either I am just wondering were my money would be better spent. I know alot of people prefer the OEM stihl bars on stihl's but I do not see many dolmars running OEM bars.

How about chains advice for someone who only cut 5-6 cords at a time. I want something fairly well matched to the saw's power output. not to aggresive but not something that takes forever to cut because of safety.

I like Oregons Powermatch bars, good quality, fair price. Chains, Oregons LGX in 3/8ths is great chain. Half the people like it and half dont. Go figure. If your made of money then get the Stihl RSC in 3/8ths. REJ2

 

[TreePointer]

That's what I run on my 6401--Oregon Power Match 24" bar and Stihl RSC (.375, .050).

 

[zr900]

The bar that came on my Dolmar 9010 was just a rebaged Oregon power match. I have not had any problems with the powermatch bars.

 

[WVshooter]

Very rarely do you hear about any aftermarket bar that is not worth having.

On a related note, I'd go to whatever saw shop you deal with and buy there. It's always good to have a relationship with your local shop, who knows when you'll need them. Shipping on a bar only will likely eliminate any savings you'd gain. For larger orders, though, I'd say go through Baileys.

 

[Swamp Yankee]

Another vote for Baileys

Their closeout bars are usually very high quality at a good price. They often have bar and chain specials that offer additional discounts.

I tend to to prefer the less expensive bars. When one rolls on the stump, (if you drop enough trees one will eventually) I'd rather lose a $25 bar than a $50 one.

Take Care

 

[CentaurG2]

I think my Makita came with a carlton bar and chain. It worked just fine. It now runs a Windsor speed tip but it will take any bar that has the husky large mount. Nothing wrong with Oregon LGX chain and baileys has the best prices around.

 

[mikefunaro]

Most of the dolmar OEM bars (all of those that I have seen) are rebadged powermatch, so there's no sense in hunting one down. Dolmar DOES NOT have its own bar manufacturing capabilities.

Most price conscious dealers dont stock the dolmar bars and just sell something else direct (oregon PM, windsor, etc).

Honestly, if you're looking to run 058, the 20" Carlton close outs are a STEAL at $25, in buying one, you're committing the robbery. (at baileys)

To the OP: Stihl is pretty much the only saw oem that widely manufacturers and distributes a full range of bars. it appears as though husky has limited manufacturing capabilities/maybe just direct subontractors, but most bars you get are just rebadged oregon

 

[wolfjon]

On Baileys site most of the closeout bar are .058, Is the much of a difference in cutting or life of the .058 vs. the .050 that I currently run? I work with metal for a living so I know .008 is generally not much however being this small it actually is 16% thicker then the .050 chain..

 

[mikefunaro]

No significant difference but some might argue that it's a TINY bit stronger/more stretch resistant. i havent really found this to be true.

058 is pretty common in the North East on huskies.

050 is more of a mid atlantic thing.

Stihl doesnt run much 058 at all here so it's hard to get stihl RSC in 058.

Also that's just the thickness of the chassis there is no difference in the size of the cutters gauge to gauge; you're not going to cut slower or take bigger chunks with 058 versus 050 in the same pitch.

 

[PLMCRZY]

Get a sugi hara or a frost bite they look so cool! They are on ebay!

 

[bsearcey]

This is funny. I actually almost posted this same topic yesterday, but chickened out. Just like the OP I have a HD Makita. I just opted for the Carlton 20" Premium Sprocket Tip Bar & Chain Combo (38RC-72).

https://www.baileysonline.com/itemdetail.asp?item=BCC+20+HU58&catID=

Like wolfjon I'm not a pro, but I want something good. I figured since Bailey's said a 058 would fit get it. Didn't think it would hurt.