dtnodya
ArboristSite Operative
I got a Makita 6401 from HD yesterday for 205 (sweet) and am trying to figure out how to mod the muffler. I was wondering if you guys could tell me how you un-crimp them or get em' open?
Thx
Thx
Un-Crimping Muffler - How To?
- Thread starter dtnodya
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You don't have to uncrimp it. You can get to everything through the existing muffler openings (inlet, outlet) and the new hole that you add either on the front or the side.
romeo
Addicted to ArboristSite
You don't need to open that one up, Dolmar is pretty good about not stuffing their mufflers full of CR@P.
The ones that I have had to open, I just cut the crimp seem off with an angle grinder then weld them back shut on the seem. I either use the MIG or Esab 40 amp easy strike welding rod with the cracker box. You can also braze them with a torch or gas weld them with coat hanger wire.
As far as un-crimping them I have never tried, but you could probably cut relief cuts around it with a dremel and do it. I wouldn't do it that way because I prefer to weld unmolested metal.
The ones that I have had to open, I just cut the crimp seem off with an angle grinder then weld them back shut on the seem. I either use the MIG or Esab 40 amp easy strike welding rod with the cracker box. You can also braze them with a torch or gas weld them with coat hanger wire.
As far as un-crimping them I have never tried, but you could probably cut relief cuts around it with a dremel and do it. I wouldn't do it that way because I prefer to weld unmolested metal.
dtnodya
ArboristSite Operative
Did you do anything to the inside after you drilled the front hole? It looks really good BTW! I bet that thing screams.
I was also wondering if I'm supposed to have a metal plate on the bar cover side? It didn't come with one but it has one on the saw side of the bar so I wanted to double check to see if I'm missing anything. (Last pic ..)
Here's a couple pics of the 6400 ... It's in really good shape for the price.
romeo
Addicted to ArboristSite
I think there is supposed to be a plate in there, but it should work ok without it, as log as you are still getting the bar oiled. Nice looking saw BTW.
dtnodya
ArboristSite Operative
Thanks .. Yeah that plate missing is the only thing 'wrong' so I think I'm going to use it as a 6401 for a while then do some big boy mods. :hmm3grin2orange:
The inside plate with the bar oil slot is on the saw ... it's just the outer one I'm curious about ...
The inside plate with the bar oil slot is on the saw ... it's just the outer one I'm curious about ...
No, there is not supposed to be a metal plate on the outside of the bar, against the bar cover.
As for the insides of the muffler, ask rahtreelimbs if you want to be sure, he did the muffler up for me. I believe there is a fairly open baffle box in there from the factory, but you should be able to get to it enough to drill it open a bit more if you want. Ericjeeper just cut his out completely on his 7900, but on the 6401 you should be fine just enlarging the holes in the existing internal basket.
By using the Search function on the site, I pulled this old thread for you on Makita/Dolmar muffler mods. Do a search and there is 2 pages of threads with different info out there. enjoy the reading.
http://www.arboristsite.com/showthread.php?t=32715&highlight=muffler+mod
http://www.arboristsite.com/showthread.php?t=32715&highlight=muffler+mod
TooTall999
ArboristSite Operative
I think this shows the guide plate you need http://www.dolmarusa.com/site/managed/downloads/1783/9957000592003_09.pdf
dtnodya
ArboristSite Operative
Thanks for the thread ... What did you type in the search box to pull up that thread? I searched for a while before I made this thread like "Makita muffler mod" and the like ....
Yeah, the one it shows is the plate on the saw side which is the one I have. It doesn't show one on the cover (as Computeruser mentioned) so I think I'm good on that. Thanks for the IPL though ... Know how to translate a PDF to English from German?
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Sometimes less is better, to many words make the search worse, just typed muffler mod.
dtnodya
ArboristSite Operative
OK, got another one for you wise ones ... I modded the muffler (will take pics when I find my camera) and I am wondering how to go about adjusting the H screw. The H screw is the only one with the little 'wing' limiter, the L screw doesn't have one. Should I cut the wing, will it be OK? Any advise from those of you who modded yours? Mine is running a tad on the lean side (IMO) and I didn't make that large of an opening ... Runs like a maniac though!
And also, can I use a Husky bar on it as long as it's .050 and 3/8in.
And also, can I use a Husky bar on it as long as it's .050 and 3/8in.
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Yes, you will need to remove the limiter tab if you are running your saw at/near the point of being lean. I nipped mine off with a Dremel and some diagonal cutters.
dtnodya
ArboristSite Operative
You don't have any issues with it turning without the tab? Or is that a bunch of crap anyway?..
Do you know if we can run Husky bars? Mine is pretty bent after a thorough examination.
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