Thanks, Harry. Good stuff.

Mike

"Harry K" wrote in message
oups.com...

Michael wrote:
I have a 009 Stihl saw, 12 or 14 inch blade. It cuts find
to about an inch and a half, but then it acts like the chain
is dull or something. Cutting the rest of the way through a
limb takes a lot of doing.

I notice that the bar at the bottom is not in good shape. It's
worn down and spread out a little. So I turned the bar over
to the good side, and that didn't help.

The saw is 20 years old. The bar is probably 10.

Thanks,

Mike

Most likely cause: Chain misfiled and it's trying to cut in a curve.
If it only goes in that far before binding, the chain is really in need
of a professional touchup. Take it to a chainsaw shop or small engine
shop and have them grind it. Less than $10.
2nd most likely is worn bar. Turning the bar over may or may not cure
that. Lay a straight bar across the rails and eyeball to see if it is
square to the bar (both sides).

My bet is that you need both a new chain and a new bar.

BTW small chain (under 3/8") must be kept sharp for good performance.
That is true for all chains but the smaller the more critical. The
smaller the chain, the harder it is to file properly.

You might want to spend some time browsing in arborist.lawnsite.com in
the chainsaw forum. Lots of very good info there, people are happy to
help with problems.

Harry K