MS250 Chain Replacement Tips (5 Pro Hacks Every Arborist Uses)

I believe in responsible forestry practices and sustainable firewood preparation. It’s not just about getting the job done; it’s about respecting the environment and ensuring the longevity of our forests. Replacing your chainsaw chain is a critical aspect of both safety and efficiency in wood processing. Over the years, I’ve learned a thing or two about keeping my chainsaws in top condition, and I’m eager to share my expertise. The Stihl MS250 is a popular and reliable chainsaw, and knowing how to properly maintain and replace its chain is essential for any user, from the weekend warrior to the seasoned arborist. Let’s get started!

Understanding the Importance of Chain Replacement

A dull or damaged chainsaw chain is a recipe for disaster. It increases the risk of kickback, requires more effort to cut, and can even damage your chainsaw. Replacing your chain regularly not only improves cutting performance but also enhances safety and prolongs the life of your saw. As someone who has spent countless hours in the woods, I can attest to the difference a sharp chain makes. It’s the difference between a productive day and a frustrating one.

Pro Hack #1: Identifying When to Replace Your Chain

Knowing when to replace your chain is crucial. Don’t wait until it’s completely blunt. Here are some telltale signs:

Rounded Cutters: The sharp edges of the cutters should be crisp and well-defined. If they appear rounded or worn, it’s time for a replacement. I often use a magnifying glass to get a closer look.
Slow Cutting: If your chainsaw struggles to cut through wood, even with proper pressure, the chain is likely dull. I’ve seen chains that take twice as long to cut through a log simply because they were neglected.
Excessive Sawdust: A sharp chain produces long, thin shavings. A dull chain produces fine sawdust, indicating that it’s tearing rather than cutting the wood.
Chain Stretch: Excessive chain stretch, even after tensioning, indicates wear. This can lead to the chain derailing or even breaking. I always check the chain tension before each use.
Visible Damage: Cracks, broken teeth, or other visible damage warrant immediate replacement. Safety first!

My Experience: I once tried to push a dull chain too far, resulting in a nasty kickback that thankfully only bruised my ego (and my leg!). Since then, I’ve learned to be proactive about chain replacement.

Pro Hack #2: Selecting the Right Replacement Chain

Choosing the correct replacement chain is vital for optimal performance and safety. The Stihl MS250 typically uses a 3/8″ low-profile chain with a .050″ gauge. However, it’s always best to double-check your owner’s manual or the markings on your old chain to ensure you get the right one. The chain’s length is determined by the number of drive links. Count the drive links on your old chain to determine the correct length for your replacement.

Key Chain Specifications for MS250:

Pitch: 3/8″ low profile
Gauge: .050″ (1.3 mm)
Drive Links: Typically 55, but verify with your specific bar length.

Chain Types:

Standard Chain: Suitable for general-purpose cutting.
Low-Kickback Chain: Designed to reduce the risk of kickback, ideal for beginners or those who prioritize safety.
Full-Chisel Chain: Offers faster cutting but requires more skill to use safely. I often recommend this for experienced users.
Semi-Chisel Chain: A good compromise between cutting speed and durability.

My Tip: I always keep a spare chain of each type on hand, allowing me to adapt to different cutting conditions and wood types.

Pro Hack #3: Gathering Your Tools and Preparing Your Workspace

Before you begin, gather the necessary tools and prepare your workspace. This will ensure a smooth and efficient chain replacement process.

Tools You’ll Need:

Combination Wrench or Scrench: This multi-tool typically includes a screwdriver for adjusting the chain tension and a wrench for removing the bar nuts.
Work Gloves: Protect your hands from sharp edges and debris. I always wear gloves when handling chainsaw chains.
Clean Rags: For wiping down the bar and sprocket.
Chain Oil: To lubricate the new chain before use.
Small Brush: For cleaning debris from the bar groove.

Workspace Preparation:

Clear a Flat Surface: Ensure you have a stable and well-lit workspace.
Secure the Chainsaw: Place the chainsaw on a firm surface, such as a workbench or stump.
Disconnect the Spark Plug: This is a crucial safety step to prevent accidental starting. I always double-check to make sure it’s disconnected.

Safety First: Always prioritize safety when working with chainsaws. Wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE), including safety glasses, gloves, and hearing protection.

Pro Hack #4: Step-by-Step Chain Replacement

Now, let’s get to the actual chain replacement process. Follow these steps carefully:

Step 1: Loosen the Bar Nuts:

Use the combination wrench to loosen the bar nuts that secure the bar cover. Don’t remove them completely yet.

Step 2: Loosen the Chain Tension:

Locate the chain tensioning screw, usually located on the side of the saw near the bar. Turn the screw counterclockwise to loosen the chain tension. The chain should be loose enough to easily remove it from the bar.

Step 3: Remove the Bar Cover and Chain:

Remove the bar nuts completely and carefully remove the bar cover. Lift the old chain off the bar and sprocket.

Step 4: Inspect the Bar and Sprocket:

Inspect the bar for wear, damage, or burrs. Clean the bar groove with a small brush or scraper. Check the sprocket for wear or damage. If the sprocket is worn, it should be replaced along with the chain. A worn sprocket can cause premature chain wear and reduced cutting performance.

Step 5: Install the New Chain:

Position the new chain around the bar, ensuring that the cutters are facing the correct direction (they should point in the direction of the chain’s rotation). The drive links should fit snugly into the bar groove.

Step 6: Position the Bar and Reinstall the Bar Cover:

Place the bar back onto the saw, aligning the bar studs with the holes in the bar. Make sure the chain is properly seated on the sprocket. Reinstall the bar cover and tighten the bar nuts finger-tight.

Step 7: Tension the Chain:

Use the chain tensioning screw to adjust the chain tension. The chain should be snug but still able to be pulled around the bar by hand. A properly tensioned chain will have a slight sag on the underside of the bar.

Step 8: Tighten the Bar Nuts:

Once the chain is properly tensioned, tighten the bar nuts securely with the combination wrench.

Step 9: Check Chain Tension Again:

After tightening the bar nuts, check the chain tension again to ensure it hasn’t changed. Readjust if necessary.

Step 10: Lubricate the Chain:

Before starting the saw, lubricate the new chain with chain oil. I usually apply a generous amount to ensure proper lubrication during the initial break-in period.

My Pro Tip: When installing the new chain, pay close attention to the direction of the cutters. I’ve seen many people install the chain backward, resulting in no cutting action whatsoever!

Pro Hack #5: Chain Maintenance and Longevity

Proper chain maintenance is essential for extending the life of your chain and ensuring optimal performance. Here are some tips:

Sharpen Regularly: Keep your chain sharp by using a chainsaw file or a chain grinder. A sharp chain cuts faster, requires less effort, and reduces the risk of kickback. I usually sharpen my chain after every few tanks of fuel.
Lubricate Properly: Always use high-quality chain oil to lubricate the chain. Proper lubrication reduces friction and wear, extending the life of the chain and bar. I prefer using a biodegradable chain oil to minimize environmental impact.
Tension Correctly: Maintaining proper chain tension is crucial. A chain that is too loose can derail, while a chain that is too tight can overheat and break. Check the chain tension before each use and adjust as needed.
Clean Regularly: Clean the chain and bar regularly to remove sawdust and debris. This will help prevent premature wear and ensure proper lubrication. I use a brush and compressed air to clean my chainsaws.
Store Properly: When not in use, store your chainsaw in a dry place. Remove the chain and bar and clean them thoroughly before storing. I also like to apply a light coat of oil to prevent rust.
Avoid Cutting Dirty Wood: Cutting dirty or sandy wood can quickly dull your chain. Try to avoid cutting wood that is lying on the ground or that has been contaminated with dirt or debris. If you must cut dirty wood, be prepared to sharpen your chain more frequently.
Inspect Regularly: Regularly inspect your chain for damage, such as cracks, broken teeth, or worn drive links. Replace the chain immediately if you find any damage.
Rotate Chains: If you use your chainsaw frequently, consider rotating between two or three chains. This will allow each chain to cool down and reduce wear.

My Experience: I once neglected to properly lubricate my chain, resulting in excessive wear and premature failure. Since then, I’ve been diligent about lubrication and have seen a significant improvement in chain life.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Even experienced chainsaw users can make mistakes when replacing or maintaining their chains. Here are some common pitfalls to avoid:

Using the Wrong Chain: Always ensure you are using the correct chain for your chainsaw model and bar length.
Installing the Chain Backward: This is a common mistake that will prevent the chain from cutting. Double-check the direction of the cutters before installing the chain.
Over-Tightening the Chain: Over-tightening the chain can cause it to overheat and break. Tension the chain properly, allowing for slight sag on the underside of the bar.
Neglecting to Sharpen the Chain: A dull chain is dangerous and inefficient. Sharpen your chain regularly to maintain optimal cutting performance.
Ignoring Bar and Sprocket Wear: Worn bars and sprockets can cause premature chain wear and reduced cutting performance. Inspect them regularly and replace them as needed.
Forgetting to Lubricate the Chain: Proper lubrication is essential for extending the life of your chain and bar. Always use high-quality chain oil and check the oil level frequently.
Skipping Safety Precautions: Always wear appropriate PPE and disconnect the spark plug before working on your chainsaw.

Advanced Tips for Arborists

For arborists and professional chainsaw users, here are some advanced tips for chain replacement and maintenance:

Chain Grinders: Invest in a chain grinder for precise and efficient chain sharpening.
Depth Gauge Adjustment: Adjust the depth gauges on your chain to optimize cutting performance for different wood types and conditions.
Bar Rail Maintenance: Use a bar rail dressing tool to maintain the bar rails and ensure smooth chain movement.
Chain Break-In: Break in new chains properly by running them at reduced speed for the first few minutes.
Specialized Chains: Consider using specialized chains for specific applications, such as ripping chains for milling lumber.

Case Study: I once worked on a large-scale logging project where we used specialized ripping chains to mill lumber on-site. This allowed us to maximize the value of the timber and reduce transportation costs.

Environmental Considerations

As responsible wood processors, we must be mindful of the environmental impact of our activities. Here are some tips for minimizing your environmental footprint:

Use Biodegradable Chain Oil: Choose a biodegradable chain oil to reduce the risk of soil and water contamination.
Dispose of Used Chains Properly: Recycle used chains whenever possible.
Maintain Your Equipment: Properly maintained equipment is more efficient and produces fewer emissions.
Practice Sustainable Forestry: Support sustainable forestry practices to ensure the long-term health of our forests.

Troubleshooting Common Chain Problems

Even with proper maintenance, you may encounter problems with your chainsaw chain. Here are some common issues and how to troubleshoot them:

Chain Dulls Quickly: This could be caused by cutting dirty wood, improper sharpening, or using the wrong chain for the application.
Chain Keeps Derailing: This could be caused by a loose chain, a worn bar, or a damaged sprocket.
Chain Binds in the Cut: This could be caused by a dull chain, improper chain tension, or a bent bar.
Chain Smokes Excessively: This could be caused by insufficient lubrication, a tight chain, or a worn bar.

Conclusion

Replacing your chainsaw chain is a vital aspect of chainsaw maintenance that directly impacts safety, efficiency, and the longevity of your equipment. By following these pro hacks and tips, you can ensure that your Stihl MS250 is always performing at its best. Remember, a sharp chain is a safe chain. I hope this guide has provided you with the knowledge and confidence to tackle your next chain replacement with ease. Now, get out there and put these tips into action! Embrace responsible forestry, respect your tools, and always prioritize safety.

MS250 Chain Replacement Tips (5 Pro Hacks Every Arborist Uses)