361/362 converting to .325 pitch

[snonut12]

So after doing quite some researching here on this forum, it seems everyone is saying the only option to convert to .325" pitch chains on 361/362 is to install Stihl 9-pin sprocket (as well as a new bar too). Ideally, a 8-pin sprocket would be better as it would be very close to 7-pin 3/8" pitch but it is not listed in their b&c catalog.

So I did some digging in the catalog and see that they have 7, 8 and 9-pin .325" rim sprockets listed for 036. So I checked to see if the 9-pin part number for 036 match the 9-pin part number for 361/362 and they did! So to me it would appear the spline size on the clutch cover would be the same for both the 036 and 361/362? Meaning their 7-pin and 8-pin sprockets listed for 036 should also fit the 361/362?

[barbender]

Why do you want to convert to .325?

[Old saw fixer]

Maybe for a smoother cutting saw?

[snonut12]

Maybe for a smoother cutting saw?

Yes, and also due to the lack of power for its size. 

[barbender]

I've only ran a 361 briefly and never ran a 362, but it seems everyone on here thinks they have good power for their size. The 361 cut good the little bit I ran it. They are a 60cc saw, correct? They shouldn't have any issue at all pulling a well sharpened 3/8 chain.

[lxskllr]

My 362 pulls a 25" bar of ⅜" full comp without issue. I have a poulanpro pr5020 that weighs as much as the 362, but can't get out of it's own way with the 50cc motor, and inexplicable 20" bar with ⅜" full comp. That's the only experience I have in that general range, but I never thought the 362 felt weak.

[Magicman]

I run a 25" bar with a skip tooth chain on my MS362.  I have both chains and the skip tooth is faster.