550XP Mk2 bar compatibility

[KieranD]

Hi all, I bought a new Husqvarna 550XP Mk2 saw today. The dealer swapped the 15" bar to an 18" X-force bar on it at my request but when I got home and checked the bar I found it was 0.50/1.3mm bar rather than 0.58/1.5mm that is spec'ed for this saw. I cant see exactly the chain he put on but I assume it's 1.3mm, otherwise it wouldn't turn at all I guess. He started the saw in the shop for a minute before he gave it to me.

Would it make any difference to run this 0.5/1.3mm bar and chain or should I go back to the dealer and ask he put on a 0.58/1.5mm bar and chain for this new saw?

 

Thanks

[htb]

Will be fine, just crack on with it. Slightly narrower kerf so more perky than 0.58.

[Dan Maynard]

Exactly, I'd be a bit miffed if he sold it to me with the 1.5, the 1.3 is the newer spec because it cuts faster.

 

New 261s also come with 1.3 narrow kerf now as the 50cc saw market is so competitive and Stihl can't be seen to cut slower.

[KieranD]

Thanks a lot guys for the replies and info.

[Brushcutter]

Plus point the narrow guage on an 18" bar will reduce the drag making the saw a little bit more lively.  

The downside is that kerf can be a little narrow for some felling bars so you have to carve a bit more out.