thanks for the suggestions everyone. i have already turned the powerhead side bar clamps around so the angle iron is facing out instead of in. easy enough, but a great suggestion.
I was thinking about using the rivet holes, but in the pictures the nose is squeezed between the bar clamps, not running through the rivet holes. (although they are only clamped on the rivets that hold the nose roller, not the bar itself if that makes sense.) i assume you shouldn't do this because it will burn up the bearings? Can i remove 1 rivet, and insert a bolt in it place to hold the nose? as was mentioned, this would get rid of a lot of the nose end bar clamp, be easier, and would probably gain a little cutting width.
EDIT: bobl, that is a great idea on the nose mounting side. i think i may end up going that route. all i have to do is drill and tap a bolt hole into the bar clamp i currently have, and cut off the excess angle iron. how safe is it to drill inside the rivets holding the sprocket? or should i use one of the rivets as i had thought?
I also will be adding in some "runners" in the center to give me that flat surface for beginning and ending the cut. and a couple handles will be built into the center runners.
I hope the 372 is up to the task, it is currently the biggest saw i have. I have been looking for something bigger, but work is a little slow so spending is down.... plus i will be milling mainly pine for framing and maybe some cherry or maple for trim and siding.
now i just need the rain/snow/sleet/hail/wind/freezing rain to stop so i can try this thing out!!
thanks again!