Ported MS 461

[CTL logger]

Just got my new ported MS 461 all I can say is what a great saw. I only use it for bucking logs on landing, I bet it runs as good as my 660 and weighs less.

[cutter88]

Had mine done as well and a loud muffler on it sounds and performs awesome

[joe_indi]

......... I bet it runs as good as my 660 and weighs less.

It will also run 404 chain like the 660.

[Ken 45lc]

Can I ask what all is involved in having it ported, and where do you get it done?

One of my best friends had a MS 460, and it survived at least 4 years of him cutting down with it. Needless to say it had a very rough life, but it change my opinion of Stihl saws. Once my 372 gives up the ghost, I'll be replacing it with the MS 461.

Thanks,
Ken

[cutter88]

It's easy they just use a dremel bit to sand the rough Finnish off the intake and exhaust ports, then change the jetting to match, mine works great it has as much jam as a 660 I even bumped it up to an 8 tooth sprocket

[JohnG28]

There's a little more to it than that. More than can easily be explained really. What you say is true, but intake and exhaust ports are usually enlarged, as are transfers. They are polished after being cut larger. Timing is usually altered also, and base gaskets can be removed or the base milled to bump compression. Pop up piston can be used to accomplish this as well, with or without decreased squish. Carbs can be swapped, bored out larger,  jets changed. Exhaust opened up as well. That's a good start.  ;)

[AdkStihl]

Dyno tests have proved that a ported 461 will far out perform a 660 and do it with much less weight.

[JohnG28]

I'd take one, ported or not!

[Ken 45lc]

Ok, so is there certain shops that specialize in this? Does anyone know if there is anyone near central or western Pa that does this well?

Thanks,
Ken

[celliott]

I know member dozerdan is from PA, he's supposed to do pretty good port work.

[Al_Smith]

Pop up piston can be used to accomplish this as well, with or without decreased squish.

There is a difference of opinion on that verses a flat top piston .If the same base cut was make the flat top would produce higher pressures every thing else being equal

The real reason some including myself prefer a cut dome piston is because it changes the flow pattern above the piston on the transfer portion. The rear portion of the piston towards the intake port is the hardest area to sweep of unburned exhaust gases .Several methods are used ,cut piston is only one of.

[Ken 45lc]

CTL Logger, did you buy your saw at the same place that ported it?

Thanks,
Ken