Stihl Chain For MS170 (7 Pro Tips For Peak Performance)

Stihl Chain for MS170: 7 Pro Tips for Peak Performance

As a seasoned woodcutter, I’ve spent countless hours wrestling with logs, felling trees, and preparing firewood. Sustainability is at the heart of everything I do. I believe in responsible forestry practices and minimizing waste. Over the years, I’ve learned that even the best chainsaw, like the Stihl MS170, is only as good as its chain. A dull or improperly maintained chain can turn a simple task into a frustrating and potentially dangerous ordeal. That’s why I’ve compiled these seven pro tips to help you get the most out of your Stihl MS170 chain.

Understanding the Importance of Chain Selection

Choosing the right chain for your Stihl MS170 isn’t just about grabbing any chain off the shelf. It’s about understanding the specific needs of your saw and the type of wood you’ll be cutting. The MS170 is a lightweight, entry-level chainsaw, ideal for smaller jobs like pruning, limbing, and cutting small-diameter firewood.

A chain designed for larger, more powerful saws will be overkill and could even damage your MS170. Similarly, using a chain designed for softwood on hardwood will quickly dull the cutters and reduce cutting efficiency.

Takeaway: Select a chain specifically designed for the Stihl MS170 and the type of wood you’ll be cutting.

Pro Tip 1: Choosing the Right Chain Type

The Stihl MS170 typically uses a 3/8″ Picco Micro (PM3) chain with a .050″ gauge. This chain is known for its narrow kerf, which means it removes less wood per cut, making it more efficient and easier on the saw. However, within the 3/8″ PM3 category, there are different types of chains designed for specific applications.

Stihl Picco Micro 3 (PM3): This is the standard chain that comes with most MS170s. It’s a good all-around chain for general use, including cutting softwood and small-diameter hardwood.
Stihl Picco Duro 3 (PD3): This is a carbide-tipped chain, which is significantly more durable than a standard chain. It’s ideal for cutting dirty or abrasive wood, such as reclaimed lumber or wood that has been lying on the ground. While more expensive, the PD3 chain holds its edge much longer, saving you time and money in the long run.
Stihl Picco Micro Mini Comfort 3 (PMMC3): This chain is designed for even smoother cutting and reduced vibration. It’s a good option if you’re doing a lot of pruning or limbing and want a more comfortable experience.

My Experience: I once tried using a chain designed for a larger saw on my MS170. The saw struggled to pull the chain through the wood, and the engine bogged down constantly. It was a frustrating experience that taught me the importance of using the right chain for the job.

Takeaway: Familiarize yourself with the different types of chains available for the MS170 and choose the one that best suits your needs.

Pro Tip 2: Mastering Chain Sharpening

A sharp chain is crucial for efficient and safe cutting. A dull chain will cause the saw to vibrate excessively, making it difficult to control and increasing the risk of kickback. It also puts unnecessary strain on the engine and can lead to premature wear and tear.

I always recommend sharpening your chain after every few tanks of fuel or whenever you notice a decrease in cutting performance. The frequency of sharpening will depend on the type of wood you’re cutting and the condition of the wood (e.g., clean vs. dirty).

Sharpening Tools:

Round File: The most common tool for sharpening chainsaw chains. You’ll need a file that’s the correct size for your chain (typically 5/32″ for the MS170).
File Guide: A file guide helps you maintain the correct angle and depth when sharpening. This ensures consistent sharpening and prolongs the life of your chain.
Depth Gauge Tool: This tool is used to check and adjust the depth gauges (also known as rakers) on your chain. The depth gauges control how much wood the cutters remove with each pass.
Flat File: Used to lower the depth gauges.

Sharpening Procedure:

Secure the Saw: Place the saw in a vise or clamp it to a workbench to prevent it from moving during sharpening.
Identify the Cutters: Each cutter has a top plate and a side plate. You’ll be sharpening both of these.
Position the File: Place the round file in the cutter, using the file guide to maintain the correct angle (typically 30 degrees for the top plate and 10 degrees for the side plate).
Sharpen the Cutter: Push the file forward, following the curve of the cutter. Use smooth, consistent strokes. Avoid applying too much pressure, as this can damage the cutter.
Repeat for Each Cutter: Sharpen each cutter in the same direction, maintaining the same angle and number of strokes.
Check the Depth Gauges: Use the depth gauge tool to check the height of the depth gauges. If they’re too high, use the flat file to lower them.
Test the Chain: After sharpening, test the chain by making a few cuts in a piece of wood. The chain should cut smoothly and efficiently.

Common Mistakes to Avoid:

Using the Wrong File Size: Using a file that’s too large or too small can damage the cutters.
Sharpening at the Wrong Angle: Sharpening at the wrong angle will reduce the cutting efficiency of the chain.
Applying Too Much Pressure: Applying too much pressure can damage the cutters and shorten the life of the chain.
Ignoring the Depth Gauges: Neglecting the depth gauges will cause the chain to grab and vibrate excessively.

Original Insight: I’ve found that using a magnifying glass while sharpening helps me to see the cutting edges more clearly, ensuring a more precise and effective sharpening.

Takeaway: Learn how to properly sharpen your chainsaw chain. A sharp chain is essential for safe and efficient cutting.

Pro Tip 3: Maintaining Proper Chain Tension

Proper chain tension is crucial for both safety and performance. A chain that’s too loose can derail from the guide bar, causing damage to the saw and potentially injuring the operator. A chain that’s too tight can cause excessive wear and tear on the bar and chain, and it can also make the saw difficult to start.

Checking Chain Tension:

Turn off the Saw: Always turn off the saw and allow it to cool down before checking chain tension.
Wear Gloves: Wear gloves to protect your hands from the sharp chain.
Lift the Chain: Lift the chain at the midpoint of the guide bar.
Check the Clearance: The chain should pull away from the bar slightly, but the drive links (the small, tooth-like projections on the inside of the chain) should still be engaged in the bar groove.

Adjusting Chain Tension:

Loosen the Bar Nuts: Loosen the bar nuts that hold the guide bar in place.
Adjust the Tensioning Screw: Use the tensioning screw (usually located on the side of the saw) to adjust the chain tension. Turning the screw clockwise will tighten the chain, while turning it counterclockwise will loosen it.
Tighten the Bar Nuts: Once you’ve achieved the correct tension, tighten the bar nuts securely.
Recheck the Tension: Recheck the tension after tightening the bar nuts to ensure it hasn’t changed.

Important Considerations:

New Chains: New chains will stretch slightly after the first few uses. Check and adjust the tension frequently during this break-in period.
Temperature: Chain tension will change with temperature. Check the tension before each use, especially in hot or cold weather.
Bar Wear: As the guide bar wears, the chain tension may need to be adjusted more frequently.

Real-World Example: I was once cutting firewood on a cold winter day when my chainsaw chain suddenly came loose. I hadn’t checked the tension since the previous day, when the temperature was much warmer. The cold temperature had caused the chain to contract, making it too loose. Fortunately, I was able to stop the saw before the chain derailed, but it was a close call.

Takeaway: Regularly check and adjust your chain tension. Proper tension is essential for safety and performance.

Pro Tip 4: Optimizing Bar and Chain Lubrication

Proper lubrication is essential for extending the life of your bar and chain. The oil reduces friction between the chain and the bar, preventing overheating and wear. It also helps to flush away debris, keeping the chain and bar clean.

Choosing the Right Oil:

Bar and Chain Oil: Use a high-quality bar and chain oil specifically designed for chainsaws. These oils contain additives that help them adhere to the chain and bar, even at high speeds.
Viscosity: Choose an oil with the appropriate viscosity for your climate. In colder climates, use a lighter oil that will flow more easily. In warmer climates, use a heavier oil that will stay on the chain and bar better.
Biodegradable Oil: Consider using a biodegradable bar and chain oil, especially if you’re working in environmentally sensitive areas.

Checking Oil Level:

Fill the Tank: Always fill the oil tank before each use.
Monitor the Level: Monitor the oil level during use and refill as needed.
Oil Consumption: The rate of oil consumption will depend on the type of wood you’re cutting and the speed at which you’re working.

Adjusting Oil Flow:

Oil Flow Adjustment Screw: Most chainsaws have an oil flow adjustment screw that allows you to control the amount of oil that’s delivered to the bar and chain.
Adjust as Needed: Adjust the oil flow as needed to ensure adequate lubrication.

Troubleshooting Oiling Problems:

Clogged Oiler: A clogged oiler is a common cause of oiling problems. Clean the oiler regularly to prevent clogs.
Dirty Bar Groove: A dirty bar groove can also restrict oil flow. Clean the bar groove regularly with a scraper or wire brush.
Worn Oil Pump: A worn oil pump may not be able to deliver enough oil to the bar and chain. If you suspect that your oil pump is worn, have it inspected by a qualified technician.

Unique Insight: I sometimes add a small amount of tackifier to my bar and chain oil, especially when cutting in hot weather. The tackifier helps the oil adhere to the chain and bar better, reducing wear and tear.

Takeaway: Use a high-quality bar and chain oil and ensure that your bar and chain are properly lubricated at all times.

Pro Tip 5: Understanding Wood Types and Cutting Techniques

The type of wood you’re cutting and your cutting technique can significantly impact the performance of your chainsaw chain. Hardwoods, like oak and maple, are denser and more abrasive than softwoods, like pine and fir. Cutting hardwoods will dull your chain more quickly than cutting softwoods.

Cutting Techniques:

Boring Cuts: Avoid boring cuts (plunging the tip of the bar into the wood) whenever possible, as this can increase the risk of kickback.
Limbing: When limbing, cut from the top of the limb downwards to avoid pinching the bar.
Felling: When felling trees, use proper felling techniques to ensure that the tree falls in the desired direction.

Wood Characteristics:

Hardness: Hardwoods are more difficult to cut than softwoods and will dull your chain more quickly.
Moisture Content: Wet wood is more difficult to cut than dry wood and can also cause the chain to rust.
Dirt and Debris: Dirty or abrasive wood will dull your chain more quickly.

Data Point: A study by the U.S. Forest Service found that cutting hardwood dulls chainsaw chains approximately 30% faster than cutting softwood.

Takeaway: Understand the characteristics of the wood you’re cutting and adjust your cutting techniques accordingly.

Pro Tip 6: Inspecting and Maintaining Your Guide Bar

The guide bar is a critical component of your chainsaw. It supports the chain and guides it through the wood. A worn or damaged guide bar can cause the chain to derail, reduce cutting efficiency, and increase the risk of kickback.

Inspecting the Guide Bar:

Check for Wear: Check the guide bar for wear, especially along the edges and in the bar groove.
Check for Damage: Check the guide bar for damage, such as cracks, bends, or burrs.
Check the Sprocket: Check the sprocket at the tip of the guide bar for wear and damage.

Maintaining the Guide Bar:

Clean the Bar Groove: Clean the bar groove regularly with a scraper or wire brush to remove dirt and debris.
Dress the Edges: Dress the edges of the guide bar with a flat file to remove burrs and sharp edges.
Lubricate the Sprocket: Lubricate the sprocket at the tip of the guide bar with grease.
Flip the Bar: Flip the bar periodically to distribute wear evenly.

Case Study: I once had a guide bar that was badly worn along one edge. The chain kept derailing, and the saw was difficult to control. I replaced the guide bar, and the saw immediately started running much smoother and more efficiently.

Takeaway: Regularly inspect and maintain your guide bar to ensure optimal performance and safety.

Pro Tip 7: Safety First!

Chainsaw operation can be dangerous if proper safety precautions are not followed. Always wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE), including:

Eye Protection: Safety glasses or a face shield to protect your eyes from flying debris.
Hearing Protection: Earplugs or earmuffs to protect your hearing from the loud noise of the chainsaw.
Head Protection: A hard hat to protect your head from falling branches or debris.
Hand Protection: Gloves to protect your hands from cuts and abrasions.
Leg Protection: Chainsaw chaps or pants to protect your legs from accidental contact with the chain.
Foot Protection: Steel-toed boots to protect your feet from falling logs and debris.

Other Safety Precautions:

Read the Manual: Read and understand the chainsaw’s owner’s manual before operating the saw.
Be Aware of Kickback: Be aware of the risk of kickback and take steps to avoid it.
Maintain a Safe Distance: Maintain a safe distance from other people and objects when operating the saw.
Work in a Clear Area: Work in a clear area, free from obstacles and hazards.
Take Breaks: Take frequent breaks to avoid fatigue.
Never Operate Under the Influence: Never operate a chainsaw under the influence of alcohol or drugs.

Statistic: According to the Consumer Product Safety Commission, chainsaws cause approximately 30,000 injuries each year in the United States alone.

Personal Story: I once witnessed a fellow woodcutter who was not wearing leg protection suffer a serious injury when the chainsaw kicked back and contacted his leg. The injury required extensive surgery and physical therapy. This incident reinforced the importance of always wearing appropriate PPE when operating a chainsaw.

Takeaway: Safety should always be your top priority when operating a chainsaw. Wear appropriate PPE and follow all safety precautions.

By following these seven pro tips, you can get the most out of your Stihl MS170 chain, improve your cutting efficiency, and enhance your safety. Remember, a well-maintained chain is a key to a successful and enjoyable woodcutting experience. Happy cutting, and stay safe!

Stihl Chain for MS170 (7 Pro Tips for Peak Performance)