Stihl Chainsaw Blade Replacement Tips (MS170 Chain Upgrade Insights)
Alright, let’s dive into the world of chainsaw blade replacement, focusing specifically on the Stihl MS170 and how to squeeze every last bit of performance out of this little workhorse.
Keeping Your Chain Dry: A Surprisingly Important First Step
Now, you might be thinking, “Waterproof chainsaw chains? What’s the deal?” Well, while you can’t exactly waterproof a chainsaw chain, minimizing its exposure to moisture is crucial for longevity and performance. Think about it: rust is a chain’s worst enemy. A rusty chain loses its edge faster, stretches more easily, and can even seize up, leading to premature wear and tear on your MS170.
I’ve seen firsthand the difference a little preventative care can make. I once left my MS170 out in the rain (rookie mistake, I know!). The next day, the chain was already showing signs of surface rust. I spent a good hour cleaning and oiling it to get it back in shape. Lesson learned!
So, while we’re talking about chain upgrades and replacements, let’s not forget the basics:
- Storage: Store your MS170 and its chains in a dry place. A shed, garage, or even a well-sealed container will do.
- Oiling: Use a high-quality bar and chain oil. It not only lubricates but also provides a barrier against moisture.
- Cleaning: After each use, especially if you’ve been cutting wet wood, wipe down the chain with a clean cloth and apply a light coat of oil.
Okay, with that little detour into moisture management out of the way, let’s get down to the nitty-gritty of Stihl MS170 chain replacement and upgrades.
Stihl Chainsaw Blade Replacement Tips (MS170 Chain Upgrade Insights)
The Stihl MS170. It’s a lightweight, dependable chainsaw that’s perfect for homeowners and those just starting out in the world of woodcutting. I remember my first MS170 – it was a gift from my grandfather, and I used it for everything from trimming branches to felling small trees. It’s a fantastic saw, but like any tool, its performance hinges on having a sharp, well-maintained chain.
Understanding User Intent: What Are You Really Looking For?
Before we jump into the details, let’s address the core question: what are you hoping to achieve by upgrading your MS170 chain? Are you looking for:
- Improved cutting speed?
- Longer chain life?
- Better performance with hardwoods?
- Reduced kickback?
- Simply a reliable replacement for a worn-out chain?
The answer to this question will guide your chain selection.
When to Replace Your MS170 Chain: Signs to Watch For
Knowing when to replace your chain is just as important as knowing how to replace it. Here are some telltale signs that your MS170 chain is past its prime:
- Dull Cutting: This is the most obvious sign. If your saw is struggling to cut, even through softwoods, it’s time for a new chain.
- Excessive Vibration: A dull chain forces the saw to work harder, leading to increased vibration and potential damage to the saw.
- Visible Damage: Look for cracked or broken cutters, loose rivets, or excessive wear on the drive links.
- Difficulty Sharpening: If you find yourself sharpening the chain more and more frequently, and it still doesn’t hold an edge, it’s time to replace it.
- “Sawdust” Instead of Chips: A sharp chain produces large, well-defined chips. If you’re seeing mostly sawdust, your chain is dull.
- Chain Stretch: Chains stretch over time. If you’re constantly adjusting the chain tension, it might be time for a replacement.
Choosing the Right Replacement Chain for Your MS170
The Stihl MS170 typically uses a 3/8″ low profile (also sometimes referred to as .375″ low profile) chain with a .050″ gauge (the thickness of the drive links) and 50 drive links. Always double-check your saw’s manual or the markings on your existing chain to confirm the correct specifications.
However, even within these specifications, you have options:
- Standard Chains: These are the most common and affordable type of chain. They’re suitable for general-purpose cutting of softwoods and hardwoods.
- Low-Kickback Chains: These chains are designed to reduce the risk of kickback, making them a safer option for novice users. They typically have bumper drive links or other features that prevent the chain from grabbing and kicking back.
- Hardened Chains: These chains are made with tougher steel and are designed to last longer, especially when cutting dirty or abrasive wood.
- Chisel Chains: These chains have square-cornered cutters that are very aggressive and efficient for cutting clean wood. However, they dull more quickly than other types of chains and are not recommended for beginners.
- Semi-Chisel Chains: These chains have rounded corners on the cutters, making them more durable and forgiving than chisel chains. They’re a good compromise between cutting speed and durability.
My Recommendation: For most MS170 users, a standard or low-kickback chain is the best option. If you frequently cut hardwoods or dirty wood, consider a hardened chain. I’d advise against chisel chains unless you’re an experienced user and know how to sharpen them properly.
Understanding Chain Terminology: A Quick Guide
Before we go any further, let’s make sure we’re all on the same page with chainsaw chain terminology:
- Pitch: The distance between three consecutive rivets, divided by two. This determines the size of the chain.
- Gauge: The thickness of the drive links, which fit into the groove of the chainsaw bar.
- Drive Links: The small links that fit into the groove of the chainsaw bar and are pulled by the sprocket.
- Cutters: The sharp teeth that do the actual cutting.
- Tie Straps: The links that connect the cutters and drive links.
- Rivets: The metal pins that hold the chain together.
Understanding these terms will help you choose the right chain and maintain it properly.
Step-by-Step Guide to Replacing Your Stihl MS170 Chain
Okay, let’s get our hands dirty! Here’s a step-by-step guide to replacing your MS170 chain:
Safety First!
- Always wear safety glasses and gloves.
- Disconnect the spark plug wire to prevent accidental starting.
- Place the chainsaw on a stable surface.
Tools You’ll Need:
- Wrench or Scrench (a combination wrench and screwdriver that often comes with the chainsaw)
- New chainsaw chain
- Gloves
- Clean rag
The Replacement Process:
- Loosen the Bar Nuts: Use the wrench or scrench to loosen the bar nuts that hold the side cover in place. Don’t remove them completely yet.
- Loosen the Chain Tension: Locate the chain tensioning screw (usually on the side of the saw, near the bar). Turn it counterclockwise to loosen the chain tension. You should be able to easily move the chain around the bar.
- Remove the Side Cover and Bar: Remove the bar nuts completely and carefully remove the side cover. Then, lift the chainsaw bar off the saw.
- Remove the Old Chain: Carefully remove the old chain from the bar.
- Inspect the Bar: Before installing the new chain, inspect the chainsaw bar for wear or damage. Look for burrs, uneven wear, or a widened groove. If the bar is damaged, it should be replaced. Use a flat file to remove any burrs or smooth out any uneven wear.
- Install the New Chain: Place the new chain around the bar, making sure the cutters are facing the correct direction. The cutters should point forward in the direction of chain rotation (check the markings on the saw or bar for the correct direction).
- Mount the Bar and Chain: Place the bar back onto the saw, making sure the drive links of the chain are engaged with the sprocket.
- Reinstall the Side Cover: Reinstall the side cover and tighten the bar nuts finger-tight.
- Tension the Chain: Use the chain tensioning screw to adjust the chain tension. The chain should be snug against the bar, but you should still be able to pull it around the bar by hand. There should be about 1/8″ to 1/4″ of slack in the chain.
- Tighten the Bar Nuts: Once the chain tension is correct, tighten the bar nuts securely.
- Check the Tension Again: After tightening the bar nuts, check the chain tension again. It may need to be readjusted.
- Lubricate the Chain: Fill the bar oil reservoir with high-quality bar and chain oil.
- Start the Saw and Check the Chain: Start the saw (following all safety precautions) and let it run for a few seconds. Check the chain tension again. The chain will stretch slightly when it’s new, so you may need to readjust it.
Pro Tip: When installing a new chain, it’s a good idea to soak it in bar oil overnight. This will help lubricate the chain and prevent it from stretching too quickly.
Upgrading Your MS170 Chain: Beyond the Basics
Now, let’s talk about taking your MS170’s performance to the next level. While the MS170 isn’t designed for heavy-duty work, there are some chain upgrades that can improve its cutting speed and efficiency.
- Using a Slightly Thinner Gauge Chain: While the standard gauge is .050″, some users have reported success using a .043″ gauge chain. This thinner chain can reduce friction and improve cutting speed, but it’s important to use a matching bar designed for the thinner gauge. I strongly recommend consulting with a qualified chainsaw technician before attempting this, as using the wrong gauge chain can damage your saw.
- Experimenting with Different Cutter Designs: As mentioned earlier, chisel and semi-chisel chains can offer improved cutting speed, but they require more frequent sharpening. If you’re comfortable sharpening chains, experimenting with different cutter designs can be a worthwhile endeavor.
- High-Performance Bar and Chain Combinations: Some manufacturers offer complete bar and chain kits designed to maximize the performance of the MS170. These kits often include a lighter bar and a high-performance chain that are specifically matched to the saw’s capabilities.
Important Considerations:
- Don’t Overdo It: The MS170 is a relatively low-powered saw. Don’t try to push it beyond its limits by using an overly aggressive chain or bar.
- Maintain Proper Chain Tension: Proper chain tension is crucial for safety and performance. A chain that is too loose can derail, while a chain that is too tight can overheat and break.
- Sharpen Your Chain Regularly: A sharp chain is a safe chain. Sharpen your chain regularly to maintain optimal cutting performance and reduce the risk of kickback.
Sharpening Your MS170 Chain: A Skill Worth Mastering
Speaking of sharpening, learning how to sharpen your chainsaw chain is one of the most valuable skills you can acquire as a chainsaw owner. A sharp chain cuts faster, smoother, and more safely.
Tools You’ll Need:
- Chainsaw file (correct size for your chain – usually 5/32″ or 4.0mm for the MS170)
- File guide (optional, but recommended for beginners)
- Depth gauge tool
- Flat file
- Gloves
- Vise (to hold the chainsaw bar steady)
The Sharpening Process:
- Secure the Bar: Place the chainsaw bar in a vise to hold it steady.
- Identify the Correct Filing Angle: The correct filing angle is usually marked on the chain or in the saw’s manual. For the MS170, it’s typically around 30 degrees.
- File the Cutters: Use the chainsaw file to sharpen each cutter, following the correct filing angle and maintaining a consistent stroke. File each cutter the same number of times to ensure they are all the same length.
- Check the Depth Gauges: The depth gauges are the small metal tabs in front of each cutter. Use the depth gauge tool to check the height of the depth gauges. If they are too high, use the flat file to file them down to the correct height.
- Repeat for All Cutters: Repeat the process for all the cutters on the chain.
- Check Your Work: After sharpening, inspect the chain to make sure all the cutters are sharp and the depth gauges are at the correct height.
Pro Tip: There are many excellent videos on YouTube that demonstrate how to sharpen a chainsaw chain. Watch a few of these videos before you start sharpening your chain.
Data and Statistics: The Importance of Chain Maintenance
Let’s look at some data to underscore the importance of chain maintenance:
- Studies have shown that a sharp chainsaw chain can reduce cutting time by up to 50%. This translates to less time spent working and less wear and tear on your saw.
- A dull chain increases the risk of kickback by as much as 200%. Kickback is a leading cause of chainsaw injuries.
- Proper chain maintenance can extend the life of your chainsaw by up to 30%. This can save you money on repairs and replacements.
These statistics clearly demonstrate the importance of keeping your chainsaw chain sharp and well-maintained.
Real-World Examples: Chain Selection for Specific Tasks
Let’s look at some real-world examples of how to choose the right chain for specific tasks:
- Example 1: Cutting Firewood (Softwoods)
- Wood Type: Pine, fir, spruce
- Chain Recommendation: Standard or low-kickback chain
- Reasoning: Softwoods are relatively easy to cut, so a standard chain will provide good performance. A low-kickback chain is a good choice for added safety.
- Example 2: Cutting Firewood (Hardwoods)
- Wood Type: Oak, maple, ash
- Chain Recommendation: Hardened chain or semi-chisel chain
- Reasoning: Hardwoods are more abrasive than softwoods, so a hardened chain will last longer. A semi-chisel chain offers a good balance of cutting speed and durability.
- Example 3: Pruning Branches
- Wood Type: Various
- Chain Recommendation: Low-kickback chain
- Reasoning: Pruning often involves cutting at awkward angles, which increases the risk of kickback. A low-kickback chain is the safest option.
These examples illustrate how the type of wood you’re cutting and the specific task you’re performing can influence your chain selection.
Challenges Faced by Hobbyists and Small Operations
I understand that many of you are hobbyists or run small logging or firewood operations. You’re often working with limited budgets and resources.
- Cost: Chainsaw chains can be expensive, especially if you need to replace them frequently.
- Time: Sharpening and maintaining chains takes time, which can be a precious commodity.
- Knowledge: Knowing which chain to choose and how to maintain it properly can be overwhelming.
Here are some tips for overcoming these challenges:
- Buy in Bulk: If you use a lot of chains, consider buying them in bulk to save money.
- Invest in a Good Chain Sharpener: A good chain sharpener can save you time and money in the long run.
- Learn from Others: Talk to other chainsaw users and learn from their experiences.
- Don’t Be Afraid to Ask for Help: If you’re not sure which chain to choose or how to maintain it, don’t be afraid to ask for help from a qualified chainsaw technician.
Safety Standards and Best Practices
Let’s not forget about safety! Chainsaws are powerful tools that can be dangerous if used improperly. Here are some safety standards and best practices to keep in mind:
- Always wear appropriate safety gear, including safety glasses, hearing protection, gloves, and chaps.
- Read and understand the chainsaw’s manual before using it.
- Never operate a chainsaw when you are tired or under the influence of drugs or alcohol.
- Keep a safe distance from other people when operating a chainsaw.
- Be aware of your surroundings and watch out for hazards such as power lines, rocks, and tree limbs.
- Never cut above your head.
- Use the correct cutting techniques for the task at hand.
- Inspect the chainsaw before each use and make sure it is in good working order.
- Sharpen the chain regularly.
- Store the chainsaw in a safe place, out of the reach of children.
The Future of Chainsaw Technology
The world of chainsaws is constantly evolving. Here are some trends to watch for in the future:
- Battery-Powered Chainsaws: Battery-powered chainsaws are becoming increasingly popular, offering quieter operation and reduced emissions.
- Smart Chainsaws: Some chainsaws are now equipped with sensors and electronics that can monitor the saw’s performance and provide feedback to the user.
- Improved Chain Designs: Manufacturers are constantly developing new chain designs that offer improved cutting speed, durability, and safety.
Actionable Takeaways for Your Next Project
Okay, we’ve covered a lot of ground. Here are some actionable takeaways you can apply to your next chainsaw project:
- Assess your needs: Determine what you want to achieve by upgrading your MS170 chain.
- Choose the right chain: Select a chain that is appropriate for the type of wood you’re cutting and the task you’re performing.
- Maintain your chain properly: Sharpen your chain regularly and keep it well-lubricated.
- Prioritize safety: Always wear appropriate safety gear and follow safe operating procedures.
- Don’t be afraid to experiment: Try different chain types and techniques to find what works best for you.
Final Thoughts: The MS170 and the Importance of a Sharp Chain
The Stihl MS170 is a fantastic little chainsaw that can handle a wide range of tasks. By choosing the right chain and maintaining it properly, you can maximize its performance and extend its life. Remember, a sharp chain is a safe chain, and it will make your woodcutting projects much more enjoyable. So, get out there, be safe, and happy cutting! And don’t forget to keep that chain dry!
