Stihl 066 flat top inquiry

I know there have been many threads discussing the differences in the old 066 flat tops and Red Lights, etc. I've looked at many of them, but it's a lot of information to sift through and there seems to be some conflicting info. So, I figured I would start a post to ask specific questions about the saw I just acquired...

It's a nice 066 flat top with the oversized (west coast) chain sprocket cover and spikes. It has the 3/4 wrap handle. When I got it I was excited thinking it was a red light, but I'm not so sure anymore. It does have the clear plastic insert where the LED should be, but it looks to be just the clear plastic, no acutal light and no wires. This threw me for a loop?

Anyway, it has an aluminum flywheel and the thicker/deeper fan cover. Is there any chance it was a red light that just had the light removed and/or had the coil go bad and was converted to the normal type? Sorry for no pics, I have some, but I'm not on my own computer and am having trouble getting the photos loaded . . I'll try to figure it out tomorrow. Anyway, just trying to see if I can get any info on the type or vintage of the saw from the experts.

Thanks!

My 066 redlight had the "redlight" wires cut and a different coil. Its not the red light you want anyways, it the early model jug that makes them better runners.:msp_biggrin:

cutforfun said:

My 066 redlight had the "redlight" wires cut and a different coil. Its not the red light you want anyways, it the early model jug that makes them better runners.:msp_biggrin:

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Not all early jugs have the port timing guys are looking for. I have an early non-decomp cylinder that has a high exhaust, just like most other 066/660 jugs. Just a heads up for guys looking for these cylinders.

I understand the red light versions aren't desireable from usage/reliability standpoint, I just like the idea as a collector's saw. So, when it comes to the "early" jugs that are the good ones to look for, how can I determine if that's what I have? I've submitted the serial number to Stihl to see if I can get any information/background on the saw, but is there anything you guys can tell me? Features to look for, serial number ranges, etc.???

I didn't know the red light was desirable... was actually worried my new 066 was a red light but its not.

NewToStihl said:

I understand the red light versions aren't desireable from usage/reliability standpoint, I just like the idea as a collector's saw. So, when it comes to the "early" jugs that are the good ones to look for, how can I determine if that's what I have? I've submitted the serial number to Stihl to see if I can get any information/background on the saw, but is there anything you guys can tell me? Features to look for, serial number ranges, etc.???

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Okay, I'm finally back in civilization and have a computer capable of loading photos. I still have the question above about how to determine the vintage and if this is the desirable jug or not. Additionally though, can anyone help me solve the mystery of the apparently wannabe red light???

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The wires are missing and there is no LED installed in the clear holder. I would bet that the coil has been changed also.

I have a Red Light model and can provide some pictures tonight. About the better timing in some of the flat top models, I can't offer anything more that whats been said. I can say this is the 3rd flat top I've owned and it cuts very good!

I hate to keep pestering with questions, but I do have more photos of the saw, including the flywheel & coil. Would pictures help determine if the coil is original versus having been replaced?

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