Bent raker became broken raker ..... chian still OK to run ... right?

[dswensen]

Cutting through old oak (been standing dead for at least 10 years) at my mother's place for her winter firewood. Working with the MS 361. Brought a spare chain that was a brand new STIHL full skip chain. When chain #1 started making small chips, I switched them out - now have chain #2 on the saw. Finished the days work just fine.

Got home to put a file to chain #2 and found 1 of the rakers bent "outwards" so far that the file wouldn't fit on the cutter. Odd - there was no other damage to the chain that I could see - must be a manufacturing defect???. Got dumb for a second and grabbed some pliers to "bend" the raker back - yeah broke it off. (Note to self; hard steel is often brittle.)

Now I have an 84 link Stihl chain with one broken raker. I'm thinking I shouldn't have any trouble running it, but thought I'd ask here.

I can run the chain, right?

 

[bigredd]

There's a few threads on this subject. No experience myself, but do a search. Can also find them using a Google search of "missing chain raker"

 

[blsnelling]

Just grind that cutter off and run it.

 

[garyischofield]

Good advise

I agree with Brad.I've used chain with broken rakers but noticed especially when making the diagonal "scarf cut" the over feeding/uneven feeding was evident.I'd only recommend using that chain in a jam.Gary

 

[Gologit]

You could just break the chain and replace the damaged part. If not, run it like Brad said.

 

[Philbert]

You could just break the chain and replace the damaged part. If not, run it like Brad said.

I would prefer to have the entire cutter missing (like a skip tooth chain) than have a cutter without a depth gauge, that could be grabby and vibrate.

If you have a spinner and breaker, or know someone who does, you can simply replace that link. Or take it to a dealer, who might charge you $6 or so to do this. Not that much if it is a fairly good chain.

Philbert

 

[bplust]

Just grind that cutter off and run it.

Agreed. Otherwise, I'd expect some serious kickback or shaky cutting.

 

[dswensen]

OK, thanks guys. Off to the grinder I go.

 

[Arrowhead]

I'd run it as is. You'll never notice it.

 

[boutselis]

My main top handle had a chain like that on it until i had sharpend all the teeth off of it over time. But i mostly used it on palms. I can't see how one would hurt.

 

[herkomer]

definetly grind it off or put a new cutter in it. without it being gone it will be grabby at that part in the chain, and throw a big hunk of wood in your face. been there done that.

 

[wendell]

I'd run it as is. You'll never notice it.

I have a brand new RSC with a broken raker. Never notice it.