Stihl 020t muffler screen

[Dadatwins]

Looking for opinions on Stihl 020t / MS 200 muffler screens. I have several of these saws that I use all stock from dealer. I have read several post here about modify saws and mufflers but have not seen this addressed. (Maybe I am not looking in right place) Question is Does the saw need it ? Run better without it? I have not tried running without , I simply change em out when they clog up. Any one run a saw long term with one removed? Sorry if this is old topic rehashed but was curious.

 

[NevadaWalrus]

The 20t/200t are pretty good saws as is but most of our commercial users do remove them, with no problems. But our commercial customers are tree trimmers around town, not up in the forrest up the hill. If you have no fire hazzards to worry about, try one with it out and see what you think.

By the way, a propane torch can be used to heat the screen up to a nice glow and a wire brush will then knock all the carbon off so the screens can be re-used.

 

[Frans]

try taking out the screen only and keep the screen holder in place. IF that does not work take the whole thing out and throw it away.
That is what I did and never looked back