MS 290 Options

[HD-tech-NH]

Do I have any options for MS-290 hop up? Are there any links for info or links for porting services? Are there any easy big bore setups? I just want to make more power. Any help /advise would be great ! thanks

Tim

 

[excess650]

use the search function.....

Gains can be made by modding the muffler.

The 290/310/390 are more labor intensive to mod than the pro type saws due to clamshell engine vs cylinder bolted to crankcase.

 

[Nuzzy]

Absolutely

Muffler mod for one. Or can def upsize since 310 and 390 are same basic saw.

 

[Nuzzy]

I was too slow on the draw

 

[STLfirewood]

Best option is selling it and buying a Husky (not a rancher) opcorn:

Scott

 

[HD-tech-NH]

Best option is selling it and buying a Husky (not a rancher) opcorn:

Scott

hater

 

[HD-tech-NH]

use the search function.....

Gains can be made by modding the muffler.

The 290/310/390 are more labor intensive to mod than the pro type saws due to clamshell engine vs cylinder bolted to crankcase.

tried the search and all I found was my own thread. How about a link?

 

[excess650]

tried the search and all I found was my own thread. How about a link?

http://www.arboristsite.com/showthread.php?t=66105&highlight=290+muffler+mod

try different searches like Stihl 290 muffler mod and see how many threads appear

 

[TreePointer]

Another keyword search: 290 piston cylinder 390

 

[HD-tech-NH]

you guys rock! thanks for the links. I think I'll bring the saw to work and start choppin. Hopefully have pics later in the week! stay tuned... also what are good starting points for the carb. I gather 1.5 turns out on the main jet where should I start with the slow jet?

 

[cjcocn]

you guys rock! thanks for the links. I think I'll bring the saw to work and start choppin. Hopefully have pics later in the week! stay tuned... also what are good starting points for the carb. I gather 1.5 turns out on the main jet where should I start with the slow jet?

Check your PMs.

 

[oneoldbanjo]

The muffler mod is the place to start. The next step is to watch for a good 310 or 390 piston and cylinder on eBay.....or an affordable used 310 or 390 for the needed parts. I don't know of anyone porting a 290/310/390.....but I suppose it could be done. There is no way to alter the squish on the clamshell engines as the cylinder is part of the crankcase and the cylinder can't be lowered.

I have never understood whey the people that make an aftermarket piston and cylinder kit for the 290/310/390 engine chose to make it in the 290size....if they had made it for the 390 it would be a quick way to upgrade your 290/310.

Although I am a big fan of Stihl.....I have never felt that the extra $ 200 they charge for the 390 over the 290 is justified when all that is changed is the size of the bore. It can't cost them more than a few dollars to make a bigger hole in the cylinder and a bit bigger piston to fit in that larger hole.

 

[oneoldbanjo]

Here you go.....for $ 199 you can have a new 310 engine....and you could eBay your 290 engine and probably get most of your money back.

http://cgi.ebay.com/STIHL-MS310-MS-...5|66:2|65:12|39:1|240:1318|301:0|293:1|294:50

And if you like projects.....you could buy a toasted 290 saw and put your 290 engine in......and maybe even make some money. (Or have another 290 to modify!!!!!!)

 

[TJ-Bill]

One thing to keep in mind with the Muffler Mod is the large increase in Noise your saw will gain.. If it's not a concern then ignore my comment.

I went from a 180C to a Modded 310, the noise difference was pretty obvious. 2nd time I used the saw my neighbour came running over because he could tell I got a new saw and it sounded like I was having to much fun..

 

[HD-tech-NH]

One thing to keep in mind with the Muffler Mod is the large increase in Noise your saw will gain.. If it's not a concern then ignore my comment.

I went from a 180C to a Modded 310, the noise difference was pretty obvious. 2nd time I used the saw my neighbour came running over because he could tell I got a new saw and it sounded like I was having to much fun..

Ahh neighbors stricken with jealousy ... perfect

 

[HD-tech-NH]

looks like it'll be a couple of days I locked the keys in the truck with the saw in it..... *******.....

 

[excess650]

The muffler mod is the place to start. The next step is to watch for a good 310 or 390 piston and cylinder on eBay.....or <<an affordable used 310 or 390 for the needed parts. I don't know of anyone porting a 290/310/390.....but I suppose it could be done. There is no way to alter the squish on the clamshell engines as the cylinder is part of the crankcase and the cylinder can't be lowered.>>

Raising the top of the piston would increase compression without otherwise altering port timing. Unfortunately, no parts supplier is going to market a "kit" piston on which the dome needs adjusting.

<<I have never understood whey the people that make an aftermarket piston and cylinder kit for the 290/310/390 engine chose to make it in the 290size....if they had made it for the 390 it would be a quick way to upgrade your 290/310>>

agreed, the larger bore of the 390 would be the way to go

<<Although I am a big fan of Stihl.....I have never felt that the extra $ 200 they charge for the 390 over the 290 is justified when all that is changed is the size of the bore. It can't cost them more than a few dollars to make a bigger hole in the cylinder and a bit bigger piston to fit in that larger hole.

>>

You got that right! Unfortunately, Stihl wants the buyer to pay for the extra displacement and power whether it costs more to make or not. Likely, someone in marketing has envisioned that a $500 13# 390 is just $100 less than a 12.5# 361 with similar hp, but pro construction, so might cause some to take the leap to the high end saw

 

[HD-tech-NH]

Made the mod today! Set my main at 1.5 turns and the slow at 3/4 turn. Starts super easy and sounds awesome! Hoping to dive into a Maple this weekend that didn't make it through the storm! thanks again