RE: best chainsaw for converting
A lot of the chainsaws are more difficult to convert because the crankcase is part of the saw in general. But the Homelite 33cc and some older 45cc models are easy to convert. The Poulans from 32 to 42cc are easy to convert but must use electronic ignition because the magneto coil mounts on the saw; not on the engine. The Poulans are also a bit heavy, but run well.
The best thing to do is when you find a possible donor saw, look it up in a parts database like Empart to see how it is made and if it will work well for you.
AV8TOR