I've got a 55 purchased circa 2001. AFAIK it is identical to the 55 Rancher model save a different sprocket/bar/chain. (I could be wrong about that - that's my understanding) The 55 came w/ a .325 050 and the Rancher came with a 3/8 050 chain - both with 18" bars. Both are 53 cc with 3.4 hp @ 9000 and peak 12,500 rpm. From what I can gather the saw is right on the border between being suited for either type of chain. Here's more info on the issue's I'm encountering...
Over the last decade plus Ive dealt with downed hardwood trees, large limbs, trimming and what not. I'm exclusively dealing with Oak and Hickory in unavoidable sandy conditions. As is - my 55 works OK with limbing, trimming and what not up to maybe 8" thick. Somewhere around 14" it starts to really struggle. Anything over 18-20" usually is hollow so that actually helps on the really big stuff. I often run into problems with it not cutting straight in thicker hardwood cuts, bar then binds, or simply not cutting well - generally a lot of work to get through. I keep the chain sharp and occasionally I check the bar for flatness - replace as necessary.
So assuming the sprocket can be replaced - I can consider the Rancher setup with 3/8 chain. I can also consider a thicker gauge 058 in either the original .325 or if changing to a 3/8. And I can even consider fancier solid bars.
Thanks
Over the last decade plus Ive dealt with downed hardwood trees, large limbs, trimming and what not. I'm exclusively dealing with Oak and Hickory in unavoidable sandy conditions. As is - my 55 works OK with limbing, trimming and what not up to maybe 8" thick. Somewhere around 14" it starts to really struggle. Anything over 18-20" usually is hollow so that actually helps on the really big stuff. I often run into problems with it not cutting straight in thicker hardwood cuts, bar then binds, or simply not cutting well - generally a lot of work to get through. I keep the chain sharp and occasionally I check the bar for flatness - replace as necessary.
So assuming the sprocket can be replaced - I can consider the Rancher setup with 3/8 chain. I can also consider a thicker gauge 058 in either the original .325 or if changing to a 3/8. And I can even consider fancier solid bars.
Thanks