I had a bit of an impulse purchase and bought a saw I don't really need. On FB marketplace, I picked up a pristine MS290 with 5 chains. This was from the most affluent area of my town (million dollar + houses), looks like guy used it about 5 times each time buying a new chain, nearly zero wear on the bar or spur. So the saw starts and runs perfectly, fires on second pull. What I am kinda surprised by is that when in medium sized oak (lets say 8 - 10 inches), I constantly need to adjust the saw in the cut by lightening up on pressure. My 310 does not act like this at all. The chain stops moving quite easily, with very little pressure on saw. I have a lot of saws, so it does not feel like the engine or carb. Is this a clutch issue? Any advice would be appreciated?
Sounds like maybe the chain is a bit more aggressive than you are used to. Is it a different style than you use, full chisel (green chain vs the yellow safety)? I would not suspect the clutch at all. How much "bite" has the most to do with chain. Can you put a loop from one of your other saws on it?
I just checked and while the chain looks almost brand new, it does look like someone took a file to the raker. I will switch out the chains and try, but I think you may be correct. Thanks!
