decisions decisions.. 346 or 5100?

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Haywire Haywood

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I'm going to buy one or the other in the next couple of weeks for a limbing saw to go with the 372 and it's a tough decision. Here's some of the traffic that's been going through my head for the past couple days.

They're pretty much equivalent in stock form as far as power is concerned IF reports are accurate.

The 346 is a tad lighter.

The 5100S is a bit less expensive, especially after having to buy another bar, rim and chain to convert the 346xp to 3/8.

The 346 is thinner and 'feels' smaller and handier but tends to tip over on it's side when you set it down on uneven ground.

I've got a 7 y/o "small bore" 346 now so I'm already familiar with it. It's been a good saw.

My local Dolmar dealer is a hot steaming turd (I'd be buying from an AS sponsor). The closest Husky dealer is a 30 minute drive and his prices are high (Bailey's gets the nod), so dealer support isn't a real issue.

I know the new 346 is rev limited, but builder reports say that due to it's porting numbers, it doesn't need more revs to make power and bearings might last longer because it's not turning as fast as the 5100.

The 5100s has the inboard clutch so chain swaps would be easier.

Beyond that, it'll probably end up being a toss of the coin when the time comes,
Ian
 
Sounds like you have it down pat.But you forgot one important one though.....

The 5100S is a "Hot Chick Magnet":clap: :clap:
 
Sounds like you have it down pat.But you forgot one important one though.....

The 5100S is a "Hot Chick Magnet":clap: :clap:

My wife isn't too keen on that characteristic. I'll have to :bowdown: if I get that one.

Saturday someone bring a 346.. I know there will be several 5100s there

Good deal, I've never run a 5100. That'll help make the decision.

Ian
 
I say 346.

The 5100 feels good but for limbing and firewooding up tops the 346 is just a little handier.

the new 346 would look great with your 372.


Soon Troll will pop in and suggest a 361.:cheers:
 
I think there's some merit in sticking with one brand since you already have a 372. I think the 346XP would make a good compliment to it

However I do feel the 5100 is a better saw.
 
I think there's some merit in sticking with one brand since you already have a 372. I think the 346XP would make a good compliment to it

However I do feel the 5100 is a better saw.

So far it feels like they will be pretty even, Ian got it right in post one.

Neither of ours are run in, and they have different cutting attachments.

What I feel most likely will be the end result is that the Husky will get the nod for limbing and small trees, because it is handier (more nimble) - and the Dolmar will get the nod as an allround saw, being more versatile because of the inboard clutch. It will also balance a longer than 16" bar better, as more of the weight is behind the handlebar, if you need to use one (I don't want to).

Air filtration is no doubt better on the Husky, but I feel it is good enough on the Dolmar, no big deal.

They a both very nice saws!!!! :rockn: :rockn:

...but the MS361 is still my favourite.....
 
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A third option has reared it's ugly head. I could use the money toward upgrading my firewood trailer. I have been considering trading in my 5x8 single axle trailer with 25" sides to a 5x10 tandem with the same. My 5x8 stacked 2 feet deep in green oak and hickory is an overload and I'd feel better with an extra axle and brakes. I never have installed the brakes I bought for it. They're still in the box out in the barn. I have to buy new rims to fit the new lug pattern and just never have.

Doesn't it suck having X amount of funds and 10X worth of list?

Hmmm :dizzy:
Ian
 
I'm going to buy one or the other in the next couple of weeks for a limbing saw to go with the 372 and it's a tough decision. Here's some of the traffic that's been going through my head for the past couple days.

They're pretty much equivalent in stock form as far as power is concerned IF reports are accurate.

The 346 is a tad lighter.

The 5100S is a bit less expensive, especially after having to buy another bar, rim and chain to convert the 346xp to 3/8.

The 346 is thinner and 'feels' smaller and handier but tends to tip over on it's side when you set it down on uneven ground.

I've got a 7 y/o "small bore" 346 now so I'm already familiar with it. It's been a good saw.

My local Dolmar dealer is a hot steaming turd (I'd be buying from an AS sponsor). The closest Husky dealer is a 30 minute drive and his prices are high (Bailey's gets the nod), so dealer support isn't a real issue.

I know the new 346 is rev limited, but builder reports say that due to it's porting numbers, it doesn't need more revs to make power and bearings might last longer because it's not turning as fast as the 5100.

The 5100s has the inboard clutch so chain swaps would be easier.

Beyond that, it'll probably end up being a toss of the coin when the time comes,
Ian


For much limbing and to go with your 372, I would take the new 346. The 346 was made for your intended purpose. For allround use the inboard clutch of the Dolmar will be nice but for limbing you will have advantage of the outboard clutch and the thinner saw body of the 346. weight, slim saw body and engine character would make me go 346. 346/372 is the ultimate 2 saw combo. Looks good too….
I wouldn’t put 3/8 on a 50cc saw though… And stay with 16” or shorter.
 
Hey Ian, you realize you bought the 375 and sold the 361. Then I sold a 361 and bought a 375. Same money bigger saw.:cheers:
 
For much limbing and to go with your 372, I would take the new 346. The 346 was made for your intended purpose. For allround use the inboard clutch of the Dolmar will be nice but for limbing you will have advantage of the outboard clutch and the thinner saw body of the 346. weight, slim saw body and engine character would make me go 346. 346/372 is the ultimate 2 saw combo. Looks good too….
I wouldn’t put 3/8 on a 50cc saw though… And stay with 16” or shorter.


3/8" works very nicely on the 5100, so I think it will on the new 346 as well - time will show. :)
 
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Hey Ian, I see you asking about the new 50cc topend kits. Your not thinking about what I had mentioned now are you. :cheers:
 
I'm trying to make my money stretch as far as possible and what you posted made sense. Go figure. :)

Ian
 

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