044/046 interchangability

[lucky]

I have heard these two saws share some of the same parts. Are the crankcases the same? how about the flywheel?
Also i was wondering if you could bolt a 044 jug to a 046 bottom end and have a high compression/stroked 044. Maybe this wouldn't work as it would change the relationship with the ports and timing would be affected. What do you guys think? Anyone tried it? Thanks, Lucky

 

[Jacob J.]

Hello lucky- the crankcase, crank, flywheel, ignition, cylinder, piston, and oil pump are NOT interchangeable. The tanks can be interchanged with some modification. You cannot bolt an 046 cylinder to an 044 crankcase without a lot of modification. First, you'd have to machine the head bolt holes on the cylinder to line up with the narrower 044/440 mounting pattern, and then you'd have to machine not only the base of the cylinder but areas on the outside of the cylinder to be narrow enough to fit the smaller 044 case. Then, you'd have to modify the 046 piston heavily because the lighter 044 crank would vibrate a lot with the heavier 046 piston.

 

[lucky]

Thanks Jacob, didn't really think it would work, just curious.
Another question... is there anywhere to buy parts online or must I be fleeced by the local stihl dealer? ( my apologies to you dealers here but my local guy is a pirate. Last week I had to pay 13.00 for muffler gasket for a 046). Lucky

 

[Jacob J.]

Unfortunately Stihl parts are expensive because Stihl has a nazi-like grip on all of its servicing dealers, which are licensed to sell Stihl parts. Your best bet for cheap Stihl stuff is to watch E-bay.