Spot on 346 piston

[Lb7 dmax]

Hi, I've been lurking for a year or so, and decided it's time to become a member and ask a question. I came across a clean OE 346 at a pawnshop so i grabbed it, of course.When I pulled the muffler off, I saw this big black spot on one side, otherwise it looks good, with clear horizontal marks, I guess that's from machining? Is the spot carbon? Should I be worried or just run it? I don't have a compression tester but holding it up by the starter handle it hung for a second or two then dropped slowly. They started the saw at the pawnshop but the cover had been put on as best they could with the brake set, if you know what I mean, so it the chain couldnt turn and the saw couldn't rev. Worked out ok for me because I offered to take it "as is" for a chunk off the asking price. Just would like your opinions on the piston, hope the picture is clear enough to see it.

 

[Full Chisel]

Looks like blowby to me...cleaning up the piston and a new ring would not hurt. Otherwise, that saw looks clean as a whistle for as old as it is. Nice score!

 

[Landmark]

If it has plastic intake clamp than change for a metal one. If u can vac/pressure test would be good too. Nice score. Welcome to AS.

 

[Chainsaw Jim]

Hopefully there isn't damage past the opening. You should definitely remove the cylinder for proper cleaning before running again. Those oem pistons are still about $100, so you don't want to ruin it.

 

[Lb7 dmax]

Thanks guys! Sounds like I need to check it out further. Can't see much from the spark plug hole but I do see a faint gray line on the cylinder at that spot. I'll check the clamp too, get it running and decide whether to keep or sell.

 

[Chainsaw Jim]

Thanks guys! Sounds like I need to check it out further. Can't see much from the spark plug hole but I do see a faint gray line on the cylinder at that spot. I'll check the clamp too, get it running and decide whether to keep or sell.

I'll buy it if you decide to sell it as is.