325 or 3/8 lo-pro for Stihl 023?

[altair]

Just bought two Stihl 023 saws from a family. Both have spotless pistons and look like they have a lot of life in them yet, run like swiss watches.

Both have .325 chain on a 14 and 16 inch bar. Bars are worn so when the bars are done, I was thinking would a 3/8 lo-pro bar and chain be better for these smaller saws? Most 40cc saws seem to run this chain. Thought it may increase cutting speed, or reduce drag on the engine?

Or do they need the .325 for some reason?

Thanks

 

[Justsaws]

No reason that I am aware of, LoPro is my choice. If not LoPro then narrow kerf .325.

 

[lefturnfreek]

If your rough on your saw, hard wood, 3/8ths low pro, easy on the saw and soft wood, 325. I have broken quite a few 325 chains over the years, very few 3/8ths

 

[SawTroll]

Full size .325 really is a bit much for that saw for best performance, but don't ditch them if it feels OK to you. It mainly is a matter of performance, not about the saw holding up.

 

[altair]

Cheers, one of the .325 chains is new, so will wear that one out and then the bar will be done..if the saw feels strong I'll stay with the .325, if not go to 3/8 lo-pro..have heaps of files for 3/8 too. Thanks.