MS660 Stihl Chainsaw Tips (5 Pro Arborist Secrets)

As someone who’s spent years wrestling with timber, I’ve developed a deep respect for this saw and the skill it takes to wield it effectively. But power comes at a price, and understanding how to optimize your MS660 isn’t just about performance; it’s about protecting your bottom line. This article dives into 5 pro arborist secrets for maximizing your MS660’s potential, and more importantly, how these techniques directly impact your wood processing or firewood preparation budget. I’ll be sharing insights gleaned from years of experience, backed by data and industry knowledge.

1. The Razor’s Edge: Mastering Chain Sharpening and Its Cost Implications

Expert Pick: A sharp chain is the cornerstone of efficient and safe chainsaw operation.

Why It Matters: A dull chain doesn’t just slow you down; it increases fuel consumption, puts undue stress on the saw, and leads to premature wear and tear. Think of it like driving a car with underinflated tires – you’re burning more gas and damaging the vehicle.

My Experience: I remember one particularly grueling firewood season where I neglected my chain sharpening. I was pushing the saw harder, taking longer to cut each log, and going through fuel like water. It wasn’t until I finally took the time to properly sharpen my chain that I realized how much time and money I had been wasting.

The Pro Secret: Arborists don’t just sharpen their chains; they maintain them. This means regular touch-ups throughout the day, using a high-quality file and a consistent angle. They also understand the importance of depth gauge maintenance.

Cost Breakdown:

• Chain Sharpening Equipment:
  • Hand Filing Kit: (File, guide, depth gauge tool) – $30-$50. A good kit will last for years with proper care.
  • Electric Chain Sharpener: $80 – $200+. These offer faster and more consistent sharpening but require a higher initial investment.
• Time Investment:
  • Hand Filing: 5-10 minutes per sharpening.
  • Electric Sharpener: 3-5 minutes per sharpening.
• Impact on Fuel Consumption: A dull chain can increase fuel consumption by 20-30%.
• Impact on Chain Life: Regular sharpening extends chain life by preventing excessive wear. A well-maintained chain can last twice as long as a neglected one.
• Impact on Saw Life: Reducing stress on the saw by using a sharp chain minimizes wear and tear on the engine and other components, extending its lifespan and reducing the need for costly repairs.

Data Point: According to a study by the Forest Resources Association, dull chains contribute to an average of 15% increase in chainsaw-related accidents.

Budgeting Tip: Factor in the cost of sharpening equipment and the time required for regular maintenance. Consider the long-term savings in fuel consumption, chain replacement, and saw repairs.

Example Calculation: Let’s say you use your MS660 for 20 hours per month. A 20% increase in fuel consumption due to a dull chain could translate to an extra gallon of fuel per week. At $4/gallon, that’s $16/month wasted. Over a year, that’s nearly $200.

2. Bar None: The Importance of Proper Bar Maintenance and Selection

Expert Pick: The guide bar is the backbone of your chainsaw. Proper maintenance and selection are critical for performance and safety.

Why It Matters: A worn or damaged bar can cause the chain to derail, leading to kickback and other dangerous situations. It also affects cutting accuracy and increases wear on the chain and sprocket.

My Experience: I once tried to save money by using a cheap, generic bar on my MS660. It didn’t take long before the bar rails started to wear unevenly, causing the chain to bind and jump off. I ended up spending more time fixing the saw than cutting wood.

The Pro Secret: Arborists regularly inspect their bars for wear, clean the bar groove, and dress the rails to remove burrs and maintain a smooth surface. They also understand the importance of using the correct bar length for the job.

Cost Breakdown:

• Bar Costs:
  • Standard Bar (20-25 inch): $50 – $100.
  • Professional Grade Bar (20-25 inch): $100 – $250+. These bars are made from harder materials and designed for heavy use.
• Bar Maintenance Tools:
  • Bar Rail Dresser: $20 – $40.
  • Bar Groove Cleaner: $5 – $10.
• Impact on Chain Wear: A well-maintained bar reduces friction and extends chain life.
• Impact on Cutting Efficiency: A straight, true bar allows for smoother and more efficient cutting.
• Impact on Safety: A damaged bar increases the risk of chain derailment and kickback.

Data Point: Studies have shown that using a worn or damaged bar can increase the risk of kickback by as much as 30%.

Budgeting Tip: Invest in a high-quality bar and the necessary maintenance tools. Regular bar maintenance will save you money in the long run by extending chain life and preventing accidents.

Example Calculation: A professional-grade bar might cost twice as much as a standard bar, but it could last three times as long with proper maintenance. This translates to a lower cost per hour of use.

3. Oiling the Wheels: Mastering Lubrication for Peak Performance and Longevity

Expert Pick: Proper lubrication is the lifeblood of your chainsaw. It reduces friction, prevents overheating, and protects the engine from wear.

Why It Matters: Insufficient lubrication can cause the chain to bind, the bar to overheat, and the engine to seize. It also shortens the lifespan of the chain and bar.

My Experience: I once neglected to check the oil level in my MS660 before a long day of bucking firewood. By the end of the day, the chain was smoking, the bar was blue from overheating, and the saw was running rough. I learned my lesson the hard way.

The Pro Secret: Arborists use high-quality bar and chain oil specifically designed for chainsaws. They also adjust the oiler to ensure adequate lubrication, especially when cutting hardwoods or in hot weather. They also use synthetic oils in colder temperatures.

Cost Breakdown:

• Bar and Chain Oil:
  • Standard Oil: $10 – $20 per gallon.
  • Premium Oil (Synthetic Blend): $20 – $40 per gallon.
• Oil Consumption: The MS660 is a thirsty saw. Expect to use 1-2 tanks of oil for every tank of fuel.
• Impact on Chain and Bar Life: Proper lubrication can double or triple the lifespan of your chain and bar.
• Impact on Engine Life: Reducing friction and preventing overheating extends the life of the engine.

Data Point: According to Stihl, using the wrong type of bar and chain oil can void the warranty on your chainsaw.

Budgeting Tip: Don’t skimp on bar and chain oil. Invest in a high-quality oil and check the oil level frequently. Adjust the oiler to match the cutting conditions.

Example Calculation: Using a premium oil might cost twice as much as a standard oil, but it could extend the life of your chain and bar by 50%. This translates to a lower overall cost per cut.

4. Tuning In: Optimizing Carburetor Settings for Fuel Efficiency and Power

Expert Pick: Proper carburetor tuning is essential for maximizing fuel efficiency and power.

Why It Matters: An improperly tuned carburetor can cause the saw to run lean (not enough fuel) or rich (too much fuel). A lean condition can damage the engine, while a rich condition wastes fuel and reduces power.

My Experience: I used to think that carburetor tuning was a black art. I was afraid to touch the adjustment screws. But after watching a few videos and experimenting on an old chainsaw, I realized that it’s not that complicated. And the difference in performance is significant.

The Pro Secret: Arborists understand the relationship between the high and low speed jets and how they affect the saw’s performance at different throttle settings. They use a tachometer to ensure that the engine is running within the recommended RPM range.

Cost Breakdown:

• Tachometer: $30 – $100.
• Time Investment: Carburetor tuning takes time and patience. Expect to spend 30-60 minutes getting it right.
• Impact on Fuel Consumption: A properly tuned carburetor can improve fuel efficiency by 10-20%.
• Impact on Engine Life: Running the engine at the correct RPM range extends its lifespan.

Data Point: A study by the EPA found that improperly tuned small engines contribute significantly to air pollution.

Budgeting Tip: Invest in a tachometer and learn how to tune your carburetor. The savings in fuel consumption and engine repairs will quickly pay for the investment.

Example Calculation: A 15% improvement in fuel efficiency could save you $50-$100 per year, depending on how much you use your chainsaw.

Carburetor Adjustment Explained:

• L (Low-Speed Jet): Controls the fuel mixture at idle and low throttle. Adjusting this affects starting and idling smoothness. Turning it clockwise leans the mixture (less fuel), while counter-clockwise richens it (more fuel).
• H (High-Speed Jet): Controls the fuel mixture at full throttle. This is crucial for power and preventing engine damage. Leaning it too much can cause overheating and seizing. Richening it too much can cause bogging and reduced power.
• LA (Idle Adjustment Screw): Controls the idle speed of the engine. Adjust this after adjusting the L jet to achieve the correct idle speed.

Tuning Process:

1. Warm-up: Start the saw and let it warm up for a few minutes.
2. Idle Adjustment: Adjust the LA screw until the chain stops moving at idle. If the chain is still moving, turn the screw counter-clockwise. If the engine stalls, turn the screw clockwise.
3. Low-Speed Adjustment: Turn the L screw until the engine idles smoothly and accelerates cleanly. If the engine hesitates or bogs when you open the throttle, turn the screw counter-clockwise. If the engine runs rough or stalls at idle, turn the screw clockwise.
4. High-Speed Adjustment: This is best done with a tachometer. Run the saw at full throttle and adjust the H screw until the engine reaches the recommended RPM range (check your owner’s manual). If you don’t have a tachometer, listen to the engine. It should sound strong and healthy at full throttle. If it sounds strained or whiny, turn the screw counter-clockwise. If it sounds sluggish or muffled, turn the screw clockwise.
5. Fine-Tuning: After making these adjustments, let the engine cool down and then restart it. Make any further adjustments as needed to achieve optimal performance.

Important Note: Carburetor tuning can be tricky, and it’s easy to damage your engine if you’re not careful. If you’re not comfortable doing it yourself, take your chainsaw to a qualified technician.

5. The Right Mix: Fuel Quality and Storage for Optimal Performance

Expert Pick: Using the right fuel and storing it properly is crucial for engine health and longevity.

Why It Matters: Old or contaminated fuel can cause starting problems, reduced power, and engine damage.

My Experience: I once used some old gas that had been sitting in my garage for over a year. The chainsaw was hard to start, ran rough, and produced a lot of smoke. I ended up having to clean the carburetor to get it running properly again.

The Pro Secret: Arborists use fresh, high-octane fuel mixed with a high-quality two-stroke oil at the correct ratio (typically 50:1). They also add a fuel stabilizer to prevent the fuel from going bad during storage.

Cost Breakdown:

• Fuel:
  • Regular Gasoline: $3 – $4 per gallon.
  • Premium Gasoline: $4 – $5 per gallon.
• Two-Stroke Oil: $10 – $20 per quart.
• Fuel Stabilizer: $5 – $10 per bottle.
• Fuel Storage Containers: $10 – $20 each.
• Impact on Engine Life: Using fresh, high-quality fuel extends the life of the engine.
• Impact on Performance: Fresh fuel ensures optimal power and starting reliability.

Data Point: According to the Outdoor Power Equipment Institute (OPEI), using fuel containing more than 10% ethanol can damage small engines.

Budgeting Tip: Use fresh, high-octane fuel mixed with a high-quality two-stroke oil at the correct ratio. Add a fuel stabilizer to prevent the fuel from going bad during storage. Store fuel in approved containers in a cool, dry place.

Example Calculation: Spending an extra dollar per gallon on premium fuel and adding a fuel stabilizer could prevent costly engine repairs down the road.

The Ethanol Issue:

Ethanol is an alcohol that is often added to gasoline. While it can improve octane and reduce emissions, it can also cause problems in small engines like chainsaws. Ethanol attracts water, which can lead to corrosion and fuel system problems. It can also degrade rubber and plastic components.

How to Mitigate Ethanol Problems:

• Use Ethanol-Free Fuel: If possible, use gasoline that does not contain ethanol. This is the best way to avoid ethanol-related problems.
• Use Fuel Stabilizer: Add a fuel stabilizer to your fuel to help prevent ethanol from attracting water and degrading fuel components.
• Drain the Fuel Tank: If you are not going to use your chainsaw for an extended period of time, drain the fuel tank and carburetor to prevent fuel from going bad.
• Use Fresh Fuel: Always use fresh fuel that is no more than 30 days old.

The Importance of Octane:

Octane is a measure of a fuel’s resistance to knocking or pinging. Higher octane fuels are more resistant to knocking, which can damage the engine. The MS660 requires a minimum octane rating of 89. Using a lower octane fuel can cause the engine to run rough and damage it over time.

Choosing the Right Two-Stroke Oil:

Two-stroke oil is added to gasoline to lubricate the engine. It is important to use a high-quality two-stroke oil that is specifically designed for chainsaws. These oils contain additives that help to protect the engine from wear and corrosion.

Mixing Fuel and Oil:

The correct fuel-to-oil ratio for the MS660 is typically 50:1. This means that you should mix 50 parts gasoline with 1 part two-stroke oil. Use a measuring container to ensure that you are mixing the fuel and oil at the correct ratio.

Storing Fuel:

Store fuel in approved containers in a cool, dry place. Keep the containers tightly sealed to prevent evaporation and contamination. Do not store fuel for more than 30 days.

The MS660: A Cost-Effective Powerhouse with Proper Management

The Stihl MS660 is a powerful and versatile chainsaw that can handle even the most demanding tasks. However, like any tool, it requires proper maintenance and operation to ensure optimal performance and longevity. By following these 5 pro arborist secrets, you can maximize your MS660’s potential, reduce your operating costs, and extend its lifespan.

Variable Factors Affecting Overall Project Costs

Before diving into specific cost breakdowns, it’s crucial to acknowledge the variable factors that can drastically affect project expenses:

• Wood Type: Hardwoods like oak and maple require more power and time to process than softwoods like pine and fir.
• Location Accessibility: Difficult access to the work site can increase labor costs and transportation expenses.
• Seasonality: Timber prices and firewood demand fluctuate seasonally, impacting material costs.
• Terrain: Steep or uneven terrain slows down harvesting and increases the risk of accidents, raising insurance costs.
• Regulations and Permits: Logging operations often require permits and adherence to environmental regulations, adding administrative costs.

Beyond the Saw: Additional Cost Considerations

Owning and operating an MS660 is only one piece of the puzzle. To accurately budget your wood processing or firewood preparation project, you need to consider these additional cost components:

• Timber Purchase/Harvesting Costs:
  • Standing Timber: Price varies widely based on species, size, and location. Expect to pay anywhere from $20 to $100+ per thousand board feet (MBF).
  • Felled Logs: Prices are more stable but still vary depending on species and quality.
  • Harvesting Permits: Costs vary by state and locality.
• Labor Costs:
  • Logging Crew: Hourly rates for experienced loggers range from $25 to $50 per hour per person.
  • Firewood Handlers: Rates are typically lower, ranging from $15 to $30 per hour.
• Tool Maintenance and Replacement:
  • Chainsaw Maintenance: Regular maintenance (sharpening, cleaning, lubrication) can cost $50 to $100 per year.
  • Chainsaw Replacement: The MS660 is a durable saw, but eventually, it will need to be replaced. Budget accordingly.
  • Other Tools: Axes, wedges, splitting mauls, log carriers – all add to the overall cost.
• Transportation Costs:
  • Fuel: Transporting logs and firewood requires fuel, which can be a significant expense.
  • Truck Maintenance: Trucks require regular maintenance, which can add to the transportation costs.
• Safety Equipment:
  • Helmet: $50 – $150
  • Chaps: $75 – $200
  • Gloves: $20 – $50
  • Eye Protection: $10 – $30
  • Hearing Protection: $20 – $50

Industry Benchmarks and Statistical Data:

• Average Price per Cord of Firewood: The average price per cord of firewood in the US ranges from $200 to $400, depending on the species, location, and season. (Source: USDA Forest Service)
• Timber Prices: Timber prices fluctuate based on market demand and supply. Stay informed about current timber prices in your region. (Source: Forest2Market)
• Equipment Rental Fees: Renting a log splitter can cost $50 to $100 per day. (Source: Local Equipment Rental Companies)
• Fuelwood Market Rates: Fuelwood market rates vary depending on the region and the demand for firewood. (Source: Local Firewood Suppliers)

Practical Tips for Cost Optimization and Budget Management:

• Plan Ahead: Develop a detailed plan for your wood processing or firewood preparation project. This will help you estimate costs more accurately.
• Shop Around: Compare prices for timber, equipment, and labor from multiple sources.
• Negotiate: Don’t be afraid to negotiate prices with suppliers and contractors.
• Maintain Your Equipment: Regular maintenance will extend the life of your equipment and prevent costly repairs.
• Use Your Resources Wisely: Don’t waste fuel, oil, or other materials.
• Track Your Expenses: Keep track of all your expenses so you can see where your money is going.
• Consider the Long Term: Think about the long-term costs and benefits of your project.
• Learn New Skills: The more skills you have, the less you’ll have to pay others to do the work for you.
• Consider a Co-op: Co-ops can save you money on equipment and supplies.

Relevant Calculations and Formulas:

• Estimating Volume of Logs in Board Feet: Use the Doyle Log Scale or the Scribner Log Scale to estimate the volume of logs in board feet.
• Estimating Volume of Firewood in Cords: A cord of firewood is a stack of wood that is 4 feet high, 4 feet wide, and 8 feet long, totaling 128 cubic feet.
• Estimating Drying Time Based on Moisture Content: Firewood needs to be dried to a moisture content of 20% or less to burn efficiently. The drying time depends on the species of wood, the climate, and the stacking method.

Case Study: Firewood Preparation Project Budget

Let’s consider a hypothetical firewood preparation project where you plan to produce 10 cords of firewood from oak logs.

• Timber Purchase: 10 cords of oak logs @ $150/cord = $1500
• Chainsaw Fuel and Oil: $100
• Log Splitter Rental: 3 days @ $75/day = $225
• Labor (You and a Helper): 40 hours @ $20/hour = $800
• Transportation Costs: $100
• Safety Equipment: $100
• Total Estimated Cost: $2825
• Cost per Cord: $282.50

This is just an estimate. Your actual costs may vary depending on the specific circumstances of your project.

Actionable Takeaways and Next Steps:

• Sharpen your chains regularly: A sharp chain saves time, fuel, and wear on your saw.
• Maintain your bar properly: A well-maintained bar extends chain life and prevents accidents.
• Use high-quality fuel and oil: Fresh fuel and oil are essential for engine health and longevity.
• Tune your carburetor for optimal performance: A properly tuned carburetor saves fuel and increases power.
• Plan your wood processing or firewood preparation project carefully: A detailed plan will help you estimate costs accurately and avoid surprises.
• Track your expenses: Keeping track of your expenses will help you see where your money is going and identify areas where you can save.

Conclusion: Mastering Your MS660 and Your Budget

The MS660 is a powerful tool that can help you tackle a wide range of wood processing and firewood preparation tasks. By mastering the pro arborist secrets outlined in this article and by carefully managing your budget, you can maximize your investment and achieve your goals. Remember, knowledge is power, and a well-informed approach is the key to success in any wood processing or firewood preparation endeavor. So, get out there, be safe, and start cutting! Your MS660, and your wallet, will thank you for it.

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