I've been actively looking for a new(to me) saw for a little while. I stumbled across a makita 6401 on CL. It seems like it fits what I'm looking for which is 60+ cc pro saw. I've never used anything but stihls in the past, this one is listed for $400 with mix, bar oil has a new chain, filter, and spark plug. Anyone have real world experience with these? How's it compare to a ms-362? Will service parts be available long term? Any feedback would be appreciated.
Makita 6401?
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Dairyman
Minister of Fire
Don't know. But I have bought a couple of parts for my 1991 65cc Poulan, with over a hundred cords under it's belt, on eBay in the last four years.
Big parts. One air filter and and a fuel cap because the not thought of back then etythnol fuel swelled the gas cap.
TreePointer
Minister of Fire
Actually, although the saws differ in displacement, the 362 and 6401 saws have essentially the same horsepower (4.69hp vs 4.7hp, respectively). The 6401 is a bit bulky and on the heavy side for its displacement, so I'd choose the 362--setting cost aside, of course. As mentioned, putting the 79cc P&C on a 6401 makes it a fantastic ~80cc saw if that's what you want (I did it).
Makita 6401 = Dolmar 6400. Makita 6421 is the current version and has a CAT muffler. Both models have been used extensively as a rental saw at Home Depot rental centers.
The Dolmar 6400/7300/7900 family of saws are essentially the same saw but differ in piston & cylinder. Their parts are available lots of places online.
Makita 6401 = Dolmar 6400. Makita 6421 is the current version and has a CAT muffler. Both models have been used extensively as a rental saw at Home Depot rental centers.
The Dolmar 6400/7300/7900 family of saws are essentially the same saw but differ in piston & cylinder. Their parts are available lots of places online.
Sounds like it's a good saw just a bit heavy, and serviceable for years to come.
I've checked around, 400 seems like the going rate used on ebay, etc. you all agree?
Thanks for the insight.
I've checked around, 400 seems like the going rate used on ebay, etc. you all agree?
Thanks for the insight.
TreePointer
Minister of Fire
Every now ant then, Home Depot gets rid of their older rental saws. Some have been able to get their hands on a used 6401/6421 for $200-300. To get one you need to have a Home Depot with a rentals department in your area, and your timing needs to be right when you ask. Me? I had trouble getting a used Home Depot saw, so I bought a new 6401 for ~$470 to my door, but that was about four years ago.
Since you can buy online a brand new 6421 (same saw as 6401 but with catalytic muffler) for $559 and free shipping, I'd say $400 is little steep for a used 6401. If I were able to confirm that it's in very good condition, I'd consider the 6401 at that price if I needed that class of saw. Note that eBay prices for used saws are usually high.
Since you can buy online a brand new 6421 (same saw as 6401 but with catalytic muffler) for $559 and free shipping, I'd say $400 is little steep for a used 6401. If I were able to confirm that it's in very good condition, I'd consider the 6401 at that price if I needed that class of saw. Note that eBay prices for used saws are usually high.
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Babaganoosh
Minister of Fire
It's a great saw. I've got an stihl 036 and a dolmar 6421. The dolmar is heavier but outcuts the 036. I got it as a home depot rental for 250. When I get around to it I'm putting the 79cc top end on it. That's my 2 saw plan.
computeruser
Feeling the Heat
It's a great saw, whether it is in stock 64cc form or if you drop a 7910 piston/cylinder onto it later. It is definitely heavier and bulkier than the 362, but depending on your use, the bulk may or may not matter to you. I own a few of them, including heated handle versions, and think they're great saws.
Parts are easy to get online, in addition to through the Dolmar and Makita parts distribution channels.
Parts are easy to get online, in addition to through the Dolmar and Makita parts distribution channels.
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