Stihl MS 170 Bar and Chain Upgrade Guide (3 Pro-Level Tips)

Stihl MS 170 Bar and Chain Upgrade Guide: Unleash the Beast Within (3 Pro-Level Tips)

Ready to transform your Stihl MS 170 from a trusty homeowner saw into a lean, mean wood-cutting machine? That’s exactly what I’m going to help you do. The Stihl MS 170 is a fantastic entry-level chainsaw, no doubt about it. But let’s be honest, sometimes it feels a little…underpowered. I remember when I first got mine. I was eager to tackle a pile of fallen oak after a storm. The saw struggled, bogged down in the denser wood, and frankly, it was frustrating. That’s when I started exploring upgrades.

This isn’t just about swapping parts; it’s about unlocking the potential hidden within your MS 170. We’re talking about increased cutting speed, smoother operation, and a saw that can handle tougher jobs with confidence. Think of it as giving your saw a new lease on life, a performance boost that will make your wood-cutting tasks significantly easier and more enjoyable.

Globally, the firewood and small-scale logging industries are seeing a resurgence. People are increasingly interested in sustainable heating solutions and managing their own land. A well-tuned and upgraded chainsaw is essential for both hobbyists and professionals in this space. According to a recent report by the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO), sustainable forest management is key to mitigating climate change and providing renewable energy sources. Properly preparing firewood contributes to this effort.

The information age has empowered individuals and smaller operations to take control of their wood processing needs. No longer are we solely reliant on large-scale commercial operations. With the right knowledge and tools, anyone can efficiently and safely manage their wood supply. I’ve seen countless individuals, from homesteaders to small-scale farmers, significantly improve their efficiency and reduce costs by upgrading their equipment and honing their skills.

This guide will provide you with three pro-level tips to elevate your Stihl MS 170. We’ll delve into bar and chain selection, address common issues, and provide actionable steps to ensure a successful upgrade. Let’s get started!

Understanding the MS 170’s Limitations

Before we dive into upgrades, it’s essential to understand the Stihl MS 170’s limitations. This isn’t about bashing the saw; it’s about acknowledging its intended purpose and identifying areas for improvement.

The MS 170 is designed for light-duty tasks like pruning, limbing, and cutting small firewood. It’s a popular choice for homeowners due to its affordability and ease of use. However, its smaller engine and stock bar and chain can struggle with larger diameter wood or denser species.

Here’s a breakdown of some common limitations:

• Engine Power: The MS 170 has a relatively small engine (around 30cc). This limits its ability to maintain consistent speed when cutting through tougher wood.
• Stock Bar and Chain: The standard bar and chain are designed for general use and may not be optimized for specific cutting tasks. They can be prone to dulling quickly, especially when cutting dirty or abrasive wood.
• Cutting Speed: Compared to more powerful saws, the MS 170 can be slow, particularly when felling larger trees or bucking thick logs.
• Vibration: While not excessive, the MS 170 can produce noticeable vibration, which can lead to fatigue during extended use.

Think of it like this: the MS 170 is a reliable compact car. It’s great for getting around town, but it’s not designed for off-roading or hauling heavy loads. By upgrading the bar and chain, we’re essentially giving it a more powerful engine and better tires, allowing it to tackle a wider range of tasks.

Pro-Level Tip #1: Choosing the Right Bar and Chain Combo

This is where the magic happens. Selecting the right bar and chain can dramatically improve your MS 170’s performance. It’s not just about buying the most expensive option; it’s about choosing a combination that’s well-suited to your specific needs and the types of wood you typically cut.

Understanding Bar Length

The first consideration is bar length. The MS 170 typically comes with a 16-inch bar, but you can also use a 14-inch bar.

• 14-inch Bar: This is a good option for increased maneuverability and lighter tasks. It reduces the amount of chain in contact with the wood, making the saw feel more responsive.
• 16-inch Bar: This is the standard length and provides a good balance between reach and control. It’s suitable for most common firewood cutting tasks.

I personally prefer the 16-inch bar for most applications. It provides enough reach to handle larger logs while still maintaining good control. However, if you primarily cut smaller branches and limbs, the 14-inch bar might be a better choice.

It’s crucial to avoid exceeding the recommended bar length for the MS 170. Using a longer bar will put excessive strain on the engine and can lead to premature wear and tear. The saw simply doesn’t have the power to drive a longer chain effectively.

Chain Types: Finding the Perfect Fit

The chain is the business end of the chainsaw, and choosing the right type is crucial for optimal performance. Here’s a breakdown of the most common chain types and their characteristics:

• Low-Profile Chain (Picco Micro): This is the standard chain type for the MS 170. It features a smaller cutter design, which reduces kickback and makes it easier to control. It’s a good choice for beginners and homeowners. However, it can be slower cutting than other chain types.
• Semi-Chisel Chain: This chain has a rounded cutter design, which makes it more forgiving of dirty or abrasive wood. It’s a good all-around choice for firewood cutting and general use. It’s also easier to sharpen than a full-chisel chain.
• Full-Chisel Chain: This chain has a square cutter design, which provides the fastest cutting speed. However, it’s more prone to kickback and requires more skill to use safely. It’s best suited for experienced users who are cutting clean wood.

My Recommendation: For most users, I recommend upgrading to a semi-chisel chain. It offers a good balance between cutting speed, durability, and ease of sharpening. It’s also more forgiving of less-than-perfect cutting technique.

Here’s a table summarizing the key differences:

Chain Pitch and Gauge: Getting the Specs Right

Chain pitch and gauge are critical specifications that must match your chainsaw’s bar and sprocket. Using the wrong pitch or gauge can damage your saw and create a safety hazard.

• Pitch: This is the distance between three consecutive rivets on the chain, divided by two. The MS 170 typically uses a 3/8″ low-profile pitch.
• Gauge: This is the thickness of the drive links that fit into the groove of the bar. The MS 170 typically uses a 0.050″ gauge.

Important: Always check your chainsaw’s manual or the bar itself to confirm the correct pitch and gauge before purchasing a new chain. Using the wrong specifications will prevent the chain from fitting properly and can damage your saw.

Bar and Chain Brands: My Top Picks

While Stihl offers excellent bars and chains, there are also several aftermarket brands that provide comparable or even superior performance. Here are a few of my top picks:

• Stihl: Stihl bars and chains are known for their quality and durability. They’re a reliable choice for most users.
• Oregon: Oregon is a well-respected aftermarket brand that offers a wide range of bars and chains for various chainsaws. Their products are known for their performance and value.
• Husqvarna: While primarily known for their chainsaws, Husqvarna also produces high-quality bars and chains that are compatible with Stihl saws.

My Personal Experience: I’ve had great success with Oregon chains on my MS 170. They seem to hold their edge longer than the stock Stihl chain, especially when cutting harder wood species like oak and maple.

Where to Buy: Finding the Best Deals

You can purchase bars and chains from a variety of sources, including:

• Local Chainsaw Dealers: This is a good option for getting expert advice and ensuring you’re buying the correct parts.
• Online Retailers: Online retailers like Amazon, eBay, and chainsaw specialty stores offer a wide selection of bars and chains at competitive prices.
• Hardware Stores: Hardware stores like Home Depot and Lowe’s typically carry a limited selection of bars and chains.

Pro Tip: Compare prices from different sources before making a purchase. You can often find significant discounts online. Also, consider buying multiple chains at once to save on shipping costs.

The Upgrade Process: Step-by-Step Guide

Now that you’ve chosen the right bar and chain, it’s time to install them on your MS 170. Here’s a step-by-step guide:

1. Safety First: Always wear gloves and safety glasses when working on your chainsaw. Disconnect the spark plug wire to prevent accidental starting.
2. Remove the Old Bar and Chain: Loosen the bar nuts and remove the side cover. Carefully remove the old bar and chain.
3. Inspect the Sprocket: Check the sprocket for wear and tear. If it’s worn, replace it before installing the new chain. A worn sprocket can damage the new chain and reduce cutting performance.
4. Install the New Bar: Place the new bar onto the mounting studs, ensuring it’s properly seated.
5. Install the New Chain: Drape the new chain around the sprocket and into the groove of the bar. Make sure the cutting edges of the chain are facing in the correct direction (they should point forward as you move the chain around the bar).
6. Adjust the Chain Tension: Reinstall the side cover and tighten the bar nuts finger-tight. 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.
7. Tighten the Bar Nuts: Once the chain tension is properly adjusted, tighten the bar nuts securely.
8. Check the Chain Tension Again: After tightening the bar nuts, recheck the chain tension to ensure it hasn’t changed.
9. Lubricate the Chain: Fill the chain oil reservoir with high-quality chain oil.
10. Start the Saw and Test: Reconnect the spark plug wire and start the saw. Let it idle for a few seconds to allow the chain oil to circulate. Test the saw by making a few cuts in a piece of wood.

Troubleshooting:

• Chain is too loose: Tighten the chain tensioning screw.
• Chain is too tight: Loosen the chain tensioning screw.
• Chain won’t stay on the bar: Check the bar and chain for the correct pitch and gauge. Also, make sure the bar is properly seated on the mounting studs.

Pro-Level Tip #2: Sharpening Your Chain Like a Pro

A sharp chain is essential for efficient and safe cutting. A dull chain not only slows you down but also increases the risk of kickback. Learning to sharpen your chain properly is one of the most valuable skills you can acquire as a chainsaw user.

Why Sharpening Matters

A sharp chain slices through wood cleanly, requiring less effort and reducing strain on the saw. A dull chain, on the other hand, tears at the wood, creating sawdust and increasing the risk of kickback.

Think of it like a knife: a sharp knife glides through food effortlessly, while a dull knife requires more force and is more likely to slip and cut you. The same principle applies to chainsaws.

Tools for Sharpening

There are several tools you can use to sharpen your chainsaw chain:

• Round File and File Guide: This is the most common and affordable method. It requires some practice but allows for precise sharpening.
• Electric Chain Sharpener: This is a faster and more convenient option, especially for sharpening multiple chains. However, it can be more expensive than a round file and file guide.
• Handheld Chain Sharpener: These are small, portable sharpeners that are easy to use in the field. However, they may not provide as precise a sharpening as other methods.

My Recommendation: I recommend starting with a round file and file guide. It’s a cost-effective way to learn the basics of chain sharpening. Once you’re comfortable with the technique, you can consider upgrading to an electric chain sharpener.

Sharpening with a Round File and File Guide: A Step-by-Step Guide

1. Secure the Saw: Clamp the chainsaw in a vise or secure it on a stump.
2. Identify the Cutting Angle: The cutting angle is typically marked on the chain’s cutter. If not, consult your chainsaw’s manual or the chain manufacturer’s website.
3. Position the File Guide: Place the file guide on the chain, aligning it with the cutting angle.
4. Sharpen the Cutter: Hold the round file at the correct angle and stroke it across the cutter, following the contour of the cutter’s face. Use smooth, even strokes.
5. Repeat for Each Cutter: Sharpen each cutter on the chain, maintaining the same angle and number of strokes for each one.
6. Lower the Depth Gauges: After sharpening the cutters, you may need to lower the depth gauges (also known as rakers). These are the small tabs in front of each cutter. Use a flat file and depth gauge tool to lower the depth gauges to the recommended height.
7. Test the Chain: After sharpening, test the chain by making a few cuts in a piece of wood. The chain should cut smoothly and aggressively.

Pro Tip: Sharpen your chain frequently, even if it doesn’t feel completely dull. A few strokes with a file after each tank of gas will keep your chain in top condition and prevent it from becoming excessively dull.

Common Sharpening Mistakes to Avoid

• Sharpening at the Wrong Angle: This can damage the cutters and reduce cutting performance.
• Using a Dull File: A dull file will not sharpen the chain effectively and can damage the cutters.
• Not Lowering the Depth Gauges: If the depth gauges are too high, the chain will not cut properly.
• Over-Sharpening: Over-sharpening can weaken the cutters and reduce their lifespan.

Sharpening Frequency: Knowing When It’s Time

There are several signs that your chain needs sharpening:

• The Saw Cuts Slowly: If the saw is taking longer than usual to cut through wood, it’s likely that the chain is dull.
• The Saw Produces Sawdust Instead of Chips: A sharp chain produces large, uniform chips. A dull chain produces fine sawdust.
• The Saw Smokes: A dull chain creates excessive friction, which can cause the wood to smoke.
• The Saw Pulls to One Side: This indicates that one side of the chain is duller than the other.

Pro-Level Tip #3: Mastering Chain Maintenance and Troubleshooting

Upgrading your bar and chain is just the first step. Proper maintenance is crucial for ensuring long-lasting performance and preventing costly repairs. Neglecting your chain can lead to premature wear, reduced cutting efficiency, and even safety hazards.

Chain Lubrication: The Lifeblood of Your Saw

Proper chain lubrication is essential for reducing friction and preventing wear. Without adequate lubrication, the chain and bar will overheat, leading to premature failure.

• Use High-Quality Chain Oil: Always use a chain oil specifically designed for chainsaws. Avoid using motor oil or other substitutes, as they may not provide adequate lubrication.
• Check the Oil Level Regularly: Check the chain oil reservoir level before each use and refill as needed.
• Adjust the Oil Flow: Most chainsaws have an adjustable oil flow. Adjust the flow according to the type of wood you’re cutting and the ambient temperature.
• Clean the Oiler: Regularly clean the oiler to ensure it’s functioning properly.

Chain Tension: Keeping It Just Right

Proper chain tension is crucial for safe and efficient cutting. A chain that’s too loose can derail from the bar, while a chain that’s too tight can overheat and break.

• Check the Tension Regularly: Check the chain tension before each use and adjust as needed.
• Adjust the Tension When the Chain is Cold: Adjust the chain tension when the chain is cold, as it will expand when it heats up during use.
• The Correct Tension: The chain should be snug but still able to be pulled around the bar by hand.

Cleaning and Storage: Protecting Your Investment

Proper cleaning and storage will extend the life of your chain and bar.

• Clean the Chain and Bar After Each Use: Remove sawdust and debris from the chain and bar after each use.
• Store the Chain and Bar in a Dry Place: Store the chain and bar in a dry place to prevent rust and corrosion.
• Use a Bar Cover: Use a bar cover to protect the bar from damage during storage and transport.

Troubleshooting Common Chain Problems

• Chain Keeps Derailling: This could be due to a loose chain, a worn sprocket, or a damaged bar.
• Chain Cuts Slowly: This could be due to a dull chain, a clogged oiler, or a worn sprocket.
• Chain Breaks Frequently: This could be due to a tight chain, a worn sprocket, or a faulty chain.
• Chain Smokes: This could be due to a lack of lubrication or a dull chain.

Beyond the Bar and Chain: Other Upgrade Considerations

While upgrading the bar and chain is the most impactful change you can make to your MS 170, there are a few other areas you might consider for further improvements:

• Air Filter: Upgrading to a high-performance air filter can improve engine airflow and increase power.
• Spark Plug: Replacing the stock spark plug with a high-quality aftermarket plug can improve combustion and increase fuel efficiency.
• Carburetor Adjustment: Adjusting the carburetor can optimize engine performance and improve throttle response.

Important Note: Modifying your chainsaw can void the warranty. Always consult with a qualified technician before making any significant modifications.

Case Study: The Firewood Hustler’s Upgrade

I know a guy named Dave. Dave runs a small firewood business. He started with a Stihl MS 170 and struggled to keep up with demand. He was constantly sharpening his chain, and the saw was bogging down in the denser hardwoods. He was ready to throw in the towel.

Then, he followed the advice in this guide. He upgraded to a 16-inch Oregon bar with a semi-chisel chain. He learned how to sharpen his chain properly and religiously maintained his saw.

The results were dramatic. He was able to cut through wood much faster, and his chain stayed sharp longer. He increased his production by 30% and significantly reduced his workload. He went from considering quitting to expanding his business.

Dave’s story is a testament to the power of simple upgrades and proper maintenance. By investing a little time and effort, you can unlock the full potential of your Stihl MS 170 and make your wood-cutting tasks much easier and more enjoyable.

Cost Considerations and Budgeting

Upgrading your Stihl MS 170 doesn’t have to break the bank. Here’s a breakdown of typical costs:

• Bar and Chain Combo: $30 – $70
• Round File and File Guide: $15 – $30
• Chain Oil: $10 – $20 per gallon
• Air Filter: $5 – $15
• Spark Plug: $3 – $10

Budgeting Tips:

• Shop Around: Compare prices from different retailers before making a purchase.
• Buy in Bulk: Consider buying multiple chains at once to save on shipping costs.
• Maintain Your Equipment: Proper maintenance will extend the life of your equipment and prevent costly repairs.

Next Steps: Take Your Saw to the Next Level

You’ve now armed yourself with the knowledge to transform your Stihl MS 170. Here’s what I recommend you do next:

1. Assess Your Needs: Determine the types of wood you typically cut and the tasks you need your saw to perform.
2. Choose the Right Bar and Chain: Select a bar and chain combination that’s well-suited to your needs.
3. Learn to Sharpen Your Chain: Invest in a round file and file guide and practice sharpening your chain until you’re comfortable with the technique.
4. Maintain Your Saw: Clean and lubricate your saw after each use and check the chain tension regularly.
5. Enjoy the Results: Experience the increased cutting speed, smoother operation, and improved performance of your upgraded Stihl MS 170.

Additional Resources

• Stihl Website: https://www.stihl.com/
• Oregon Products Website: https://www.oregonproducts.com/
• Chainsaw Forums: Online forums are a great place to ask questions and get advice from experienced chainsaw users.

By following the tips in this guide, you can unlock the full potential of your Stihl MS 170 and make your wood-cutting tasks safer, easier, and more enjoyable. Now go out there and make some sawdust!

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