I picked up the saw today and said, "what the heck". Started her up and SHE RAN LIKE A CHAMP! She'll stall at idle after a minute or two, but I can live with that. Besides, it's always done that.
I couldn't be more pleased with the muffler mod, the new FG3 file guide sharpen and my tune.
I think I'm understanding the 2 stroking thing. It's like a gurgle or warble sound. She's pushing a drop of smoke here and there, but nothing crazy. I'll prolly pull the plug after few hours and see what's what.
As for the FG3, JUST GET ONE! IGM on EBay. Set up a search and save it. It will then send you an email when one comes up. Cool, right? I now have the Grandcrap and the FG. If you have the means and AT ALL appreciate fine tools, GET THIS CONTRAPTION. First, it weighs like 10X the Grandberg so you can infer it's stronger, which it is. It's also more precise because it has way more rigidity. Also, it's designed by someone who actually cares about the mechanic. The Grandcrap is schlock POS. So, I have both. I find the G sufficient for my small saws and I leave it set up with the correct file. I use the FG for all the bigger stuff. The one thing about the G is it's lighter, so it's easier to manipulate on the smaller saw/bar.
Now I'm gonna do the same thing(s) to MS361 #2. The second muffler is in the mail.
Oh and the Chinese muffler seems fine. For $12 who cares? I'll update if necessary.
As for the mod, it sounds louder, especially in the beginning, but you get used to it ... as you can't hear anymore LOL "what honey?" Seriously, it's louder, but not crazy. Certainly not as loud as my "straight pipes" Homelite XL12! The saw feels more responsive and seems to have more grunt. "seems" at my car websites = "butt dyno" LOL.
The Husky deflector is a very good idea. I'd say 90% of the exhaust is using it, so it keeps it going away from the saw/operator. It came with a creepy turned up lip, which I removed on the grinder. At a glance, I looks stock.
I just ordered a set of carb screw bushing limiter thingies. If you plan doing this stuff, I'd recommend getting them BEFORE you start. Between the age of my 361 and my effort to remove them, they were pretty messed up. This makes your tuning a PITA because the slot is sloppy. It's especially noticeable when doing the H setting.
TomJV
