how to shorten saw chain?

[Jim C]

I just purchased a 72 drive tooth chain off ebay and it should of been 70. How do I shorten? I have a motorcycle chain breaker. Will that work? Can I just drive a rivet out on a vise with a hammer and punch? How do I put it back together? Will a shop shorten a saw chain? If so how much does it cost? thanks in advance, Jim

 

[jp hallman]

You could do it yourself, but it would be a pain without the proper tools. Sure, any saw shop can shorten it for you. Probably next to nothing. Buy something and ask em' to do it for you.

 

[Toneman]

You could do it yourself, but it would be a pain without the proper tools. Sure, any saw shop can shorten it for you. Probably next to nothing. Buy something and ask em' to do it for you.

I had my local Stihl dealer short a chain for me and he only charged me for the replacement link he used. I think it was only 2 or 3 bucks.

 

[jp hallman]

That doesn't sound too bad. I have my own breaker and spinner. I'd charge a buck or two if I had a shop. Stop what you're doing and fix a chain while a customer waits. Sounds right.

 

[THALL10326]

I had my local Stihl dealer short a chain for me and he only charged me for the replacement link he used. I think it was only 2 or 3 bucks.

If he charged ya a few bucks for the replacement link he charged ya for breaking the chain as well. Replacement links run anywhere from .13-.40 cents depending on ya dealer. However to get the chain to fit your saw its well worth a few bucks but don't let him fool ya on the link price...