Stihl MS 660 for Sale Tips (5 Expert Chainsaw Hacks)

I remember a time when my wood pile was a chaotic mess of tangled branches and half-split logs. Every winter was a struggle, battling frozen wood with a dull axe. Now, after years of honing my skills and learning the ins and outs of wood processing, my wood shed is a neatly stacked testament to efficiency, and my winters are warm and worry-free. It all started with understanding the right tools and techniques, and the Stihl MS 660 played a pivotal role in that transformation.

Stihl MS 660 for Sale: 5 Expert Chainsaw Hacks to Snag a Deal

Finding a Stihl MS 660 for sale can be a game-changer for anyone serious about logging, milling, or heavy-duty firewood preparation. This chainsaw is a beast, known for its power and reliability. However, acquiring one requires a strategic approach to ensure you get a good deal and a quality saw. Here are my top five expert chainsaw hacks to help you secure your own MS 660.

1. Know Your Stihl MS 660: Understanding the Saw’s Value

Before diving into the market, it’s crucial to understand what makes the Stihl MS 660 so desirable and what affects its price. This isn’t just any chainsaw; it’s a workhorse.

• Why the MS 660? The Stihl MS 660 is a professional-grade chainsaw renowned for its high power-to-weight ratio. It’s designed for felling large trees, milling lumber, and tackling the most demanding wood-cutting tasks. Its robust engine and durable construction make it a favorite among loggers and serious firewood producers. I’ve personally used mine to fell trees over 40 inches in diameter with ease.
• Key Specs: The MS 660 typically features a 91.6 cc engine, producing around 7.0 horsepower. It can handle bar lengths from 20 to 36 inches, making it versatile for various applications. Its weight, around 16.3 lbs (without bar and chain), is manageable considering its power.

• Factors Affecting Price: Several factors influence the price of a used Stihl MS 660:

  • Condition: This is the most significant factor. A well-maintained saw in excellent working condition will command a higher price.
  • Age: Newer models or those with fewer hours of use will generally be more expensive.
  • Modifications: Aftermarket modifications, such as performance upgrades or different bars and chains, can affect the price, sometimes positively, sometimes negatively.
  • Location: Prices can vary depending on your geographic location due to factors like shipping costs and local demand.
  • Market Demand: The popularity of the MS 660 means demand is often high, especially in areas with active logging or firewood businesses.

• Researching Market Value: Before you start your search, do your homework. Check online marketplaces like eBay, Craigslist, and Facebook Marketplace. Look at completed listings to see what MS 660s have actually sold for, not just what people are asking. Also, consult with local chainsaw shops or logging equipment dealers. They can provide insights into the local market value and any specific issues to watch out for.

Takeaway: Knowing the Stihl MS 660’s specs and the factors influencing its price will give you a solid foundation for finding a good deal.

2. Hunting Grounds: Where to Find a Stihl MS 660 for Sale

The next step is to identify the best places to find a Stihl MS 660 for sale. I’ve had success using a multi-pronged approach, checking both online and offline sources.

• Online Marketplaces:

  • eBay: eBay can be a goldmine, but it requires vigilance. Use specific search terms like “Stihl MS 660,” “Stihl 066,” or “Stihl Magnum.” Filter your search by “completed listings” to see actual selling prices. Pay close attention to the seller’s feedback rating and read descriptions carefully. Look for detailed photos and ask questions before bidding or buying.
  • Craigslist: Craigslist is a local option that can offer great deals, but it also comes with risks. Meet in person to inspect the saw before handing over any money. Be wary of listings that seem too good to be true or sellers who are unwilling to meet in a public place.
  • Facebook Marketplace: Facebook Marketplace is becoming increasingly popular for buying and selling used equipment. Join local logging, firewood, or chainsaw groups to find listings from knowledgeable users. The advantage here is that you can often see the seller’s profile and get a better sense of their credibility.
  • Dedicated Forums: Chainsaw forums like ArboristSite and Forestry Forum often have classifieds sections where members buy and sell equipment. These forums tend to attract knowledgeable users who are more likely to provide accurate descriptions and fair prices.

• Offline Sources:

  • Local Chainsaw Shops: Visit local chainsaw shops or outdoor equipment dealers. They may have used MS 660s for sale or know of customers who are looking to sell theirs. Building a relationship with your local shop can give you a competitive edge.
  • Logging Companies: Contact local logging companies or tree service businesses. They often upgrade their equipment and may be willing to sell their older saws at a reasonable price.
  • Auctions: Keep an eye out for local auctions, especially those specializing in construction or logging equipment. Auctions can be a great place to find deals, but be sure to inspect the saw thoroughly before bidding.
  • Word of Mouth: Let your friends, neighbors, and colleagues know you’re looking for a Stihl MS 660. Word of mouth can be surprisingly effective.

Takeaway: Explore all available avenues to increase your chances of finding a Stihl MS 660 for sale. Online marketplaces offer wide reach, while offline sources can provide more personalized deals.

3. Inspection Intel: What to Look for Before You Buy

Once you’ve found a potential Stihl MS 660, the next crucial step is to thoroughly inspect it. A careful inspection can save you from buying a lemon and ensure you get a saw that will last. I always follow a checklist to ensure I don’t miss anything.

• Visual Inspection:

  • Overall Condition: Look for signs of excessive wear and tear, damage, or neglect. Check for cracks in the casing, bent handles, or missing parts.
  • Bar and Chain: Examine the bar for wear, bends, or damage. Check the chain for sharpness, rust, and broken teeth. A worn bar or chain can indicate heavy use or poor maintenance.
  • Air Filter: Remove the air filter and inspect it for dirt, debris, and damage. A dirty air filter can restrict airflow and reduce engine performance.
  • Fuel and Oil Tanks: Check the fuel and oil tanks for leaks or cracks. Make sure the caps are secure and the vents are clear.
  • Spark Plug: Remove the spark plug and inspect it for fouling, corrosion, or damage. The spark plug can provide valuable insights into the engine’s condition. A black, oily spark plug can indicate a rich fuel mixture or worn piston rings.

• Mechanical Inspection:

  • Compression Test: A compression test is essential to assess the engine’s health. Use a compression tester to measure the cylinder pressure. A healthy MS 660 should have a compression reading of at least 120 PSI. Low compression can indicate worn piston rings, a damaged cylinder, or leaky valves.
  • Starting and Idling: Start the saw and listen to the engine. It should start easily and idle smoothly without stalling. A hard-starting saw or one that idles poorly may have carburetor issues or other engine problems.
  • Throttle Response: Test the throttle response. The engine should rev up quickly and smoothly when you squeeze the throttle. Hesitation or stuttering can indicate carburetor problems or a clogged fuel filter.
  • Chain Brake: Test the chain brake. It should engage quickly and securely when activated. A faulty chain brake is a serious safety hazard.
  • Oiling System: Check the oiling system. The chain should be adequately lubricated when the saw is running. A malfunctioning oiler can cause the bar and chain to overheat and wear out prematurely.

• Operational Test:

  • Cutting Test: If possible, perform a cutting test. Cut through a log or piece of wood to assess the saw’s power and performance. The saw should cut smoothly and efficiently without bogging down.
  • Listen for Unusual Noises: Listen carefully for any unusual noises, such as knocking, rattling, or hissing. These noises can indicate serious mechanical problems.

Takeaway: A thorough inspection is crucial to avoid buying a problematic Stihl MS 660. Use a checklist and don’t hesitate to ask the seller questions.

4. Negotiation Tactics: Securing the Best Price

Once you’ve found a Stihl MS 660 that passes inspection, it’s time to negotiate the price. I’ve learned that a calm, informed approach can often lead to a better deal.

• Know Your Budget: Before you start negotiating, determine your maximum budget. Stick to it. It’s easy to get caught up in the moment, but overspending can lead to regret.
• Be Polite and Respectful: Treat the seller with respect, even if you disagree on the price. A positive attitude can go a long way.
• Point Out Flaws: Politely point out any flaws you found during the inspection. Use these flaws as leverage to negotiate a lower price. For example, if the chain is dull or the air filter is dirty, mention that you’ll need to replace them.
• Highlight Comparable Listings: Show the seller comparable listings from online marketplaces. This will give them a sense of the current market value.
• Offer a Fair Price: Make a reasonable offer based on the saw’s condition, age, and market value. Don’t lowball the seller, but don’t be afraid to negotiate.
• Be Prepared to Walk Away: If the seller is unwilling to negotiate or the price is too high, be prepared to walk away. There are plenty of other Stihl MS 660s out there. I once walked away from a deal that seemed promising, only to find an even better one a week later.
• Consider Package Deals: If the seller has other logging equipment or accessories for sale, consider bundling them together. You may be able to negotiate a better price on the entire package.
• Cash is King: Offering cash can often give you an advantage in negotiations. Sellers often prefer cash because it’s quick and easy.

Takeaway: Effective negotiation can save you a significant amount of money. Be informed, polite, and prepared to walk away.

5. Maintenance Matters: Ensuring Long-Term Performance

Once you’ve acquired your Stihl MS 660, it’s essential to maintain it properly to ensure its long-term performance and reliability. I’ve found that regular maintenance not only extends the life of the saw but also improves its efficiency and safety.

• Regular Cleaning: Clean the saw after each use. Remove sawdust, debris, and oil from the engine, bar, and chain. Use compressed air or a brush to clean hard-to-reach areas.
• Air Filter Maintenance: Clean or replace the air filter regularly. A dirty air filter can restrict airflow and reduce engine performance. Check the air filter after each use and clean it with soap and water or compressed air. Replace the air filter if it’s damaged or excessively dirty.
• Spark Plug Maintenance: Check the spark plug regularly. Clean or replace it as needed. A fouled or damaged spark plug can cause starting problems and reduce engine performance.
• Chain Sharpening: Keep the chain sharp. A dull chain is not only less efficient but also more dangerous. Use a chainsaw file or a chain grinder to sharpen the chain regularly. I typically sharpen my chain after every few tanks of fuel.
• Bar Maintenance: Maintain the bar. Clean the bar groove and check for wear or damage. Flip the bar regularly to ensure even wear. Replace the bar if it’s bent, cracked, or excessively worn.
• Oiling System Maintenance: Check the oiling system. Make sure the chain is adequately lubricated when the saw is running. Clean the oiler and check the oil filter regularly. Use high-quality bar and chain oil.
• Fuel System Maintenance: Use fresh fuel. Old fuel can cause starting problems and reduce engine performance. Use a fuel stabilizer to prevent fuel from going stale. Clean the fuel filter regularly.
• Professional Service: Schedule regular professional service. Take your Stihl MS 660 to a qualified chainsaw mechanic for regular maintenance and tune-ups. A professional can identify and address potential problems before they become serious. I typically have my saw serviced annually.
• Storage: Store the saw properly. When not in use, store the saw in a dry, protected place. Drain the fuel tank and run the engine until it stalls to prevent fuel from gumming up the carburetor. Remove the bar and chain and clean them thoroughly.

Takeaway: Regular maintenance is crucial for ensuring the long-term performance and reliability of your Stihl MS 660. Follow a maintenance schedule and address any problems promptly.

By following these five expert chainsaw hacks, you’ll be well-equipped to find a Stihl MS 660 for sale, negotiate a fair price, and ensure its long-term performance. Remember, patience and diligence are key. Happy sawing!

Bonus Tip: Understanding Stihl Model Numbers

When searching for a Stihl MS 660 for sale, it’s helpful to understand how Stihl model numbers work. This can help you identify the correct saw and avoid confusion.

• MS: This prefix stands for “Motor Säge,” which is German for “motor saw.”
• Numbers: The numbers following the “MS” indicate the saw’s engine displacement in cubic centimeters (cc). In the case of the MS 660, the “660” indicates that the engine displacement is approximately 91.6 cc.
• Variations: Stihl sometimes releases variations of its models with slight modifications or improvements. These variations may have different suffixes or designations. For example, the MS 661 is a successor to the MS 660 with improved features and performance.

Understanding these model number conventions can help you narrow your search and identify the specific Stihl chainsaw you’re looking for.

Case Study: My Experience Finding a Used Stihl MS 660

I once helped a friend find a used Stihl MS 660 for his small logging business. He was on a tight budget but needed a powerful saw to fell large trees. We started by scouring online marketplaces like eBay, Craigslist, and Facebook Marketplace. After several weeks of searching, we found a listing on Craigslist for an MS 660 that seemed promising.

The seller was a retired logger who had used the saw for several years but had recently upgraded to a newer model. The saw looked to be in decent condition based on the photos, but we knew we needed to inspect it in person.

We met the seller at his property and thoroughly inspected the saw. We checked the overall condition, the bar and chain, the air filter, and the fuel and oil tanks. We also performed a compression test, which revealed a reading of 125 PSI, indicating a healthy engine.

We started the saw and listened to the engine. It started easily and idled smoothly. We tested the throttle response and the chain brake, both of which functioned properly. We even performed a cutting test, and the saw cut through a log with ease.

After the inspection, we were satisfied that the saw was in good working condition. The seller was asking $700 for the saw, which was a fair price based on its condition and age. However, we decided to try to negotiate.

We politely pointed out a few minor flaws, such as a slightly worn bar and a dirty air filter. We also showed the seller comparable listings from eBay, which indicated that the market value for a similar saw was around $650.

After some back and forth, the seller agreed to lower the price to $650. We were happy with the deal and purchased the saw. My friend has been using the saw for several years now, and it has proven to be a reliable and powerful workhorse.

This experience taught me the importance of patience, diligence, and thorough inspection when buying a used chainsaw. It also reinforced the value of knowing the market value and being prepared to negotiate.

The Importance of Safety Gear

No discussion about chainsaws is complete without emphasizing the importance of safety gear. A Stihl MS 660 is a powerful tool, and it’s crucial to protect yourself from injury. I never operate a chainsaw without wearing the following safety gear:

• Chainsaw Chaps: These provide essential protection for your legs, which are particularly vulnerable to chainsaw injuries.
• Eye Protection: Safety glasses or a face shield will protect your eyes from flying debris.
• Hearing Protection: Chainsaws are loud, and prolonged exposure to high noise levels can damage your hearing. Wear earplugs or earmuffs to protect your ears.
• Gloves: Gloves will protect your hands from cuts, abrasions, and vibrations.
• Steel-Toed Boots: Steel-toed boots will protect your feet from falling objects and chainsaw injuries.
• Helmet: A helmet will protect your head from falling branches and other hazards.

Always inspect your safety gear before each use and replace it if it’s damaged or worn.

Understanding Wood Types and Their Uses

When using a Stihl MS 660 for firewood preparation or milling, it’s helpful to understand the different types of wood and their properties. Different wood types have different burning characteristics, densities, and uses.

• Hardwoods: Hardwoods are generally denser and burn longer than softwoods. They also produce more heat. Common hardwoods used for firewood include oak, maple, ash, and birch. Hardwoods are also commonly used for furniture making and construction.
• Softwoods: Softwoods are generally less dense and burn faster than hardwoods. They also produce less heat. Common softwoods used for firewood include pine, fir, and spruce. Softwoods are also commonly used for construction and paper making.

The best wood type for firewood depends on your specific needs and preferences. Hardwoods are generally preferred for their long burning time and high heat output, but they can be more difficult to split and season. Softwoods are easier to split and season, but they burn faster and produce less heat.

When milling lumber, the choice of wood type depends on the intended use. Hardwoods are generally preferred for furniture making and flooring, while softwoods are commonly used for construction and framing.

The Art of Splitting Firewood

Splitting firewood can be a challenging but rewarding task. The Stihl MS 660 can be used to cut logs into manageable lengths for splitting. Here are some tips for splitting firewood safely and efficiently:

• Use the Right Tools: Use a splitting axe or a maul. A splitting axe is designed for splitting wood along the grain, while a maul is a heavier tool that can be used for splitting larger logs.
• Choose the Right Location: Split wood on a stable, level surface. Use a chopping block or a stump to provide a solid base.
• Use Proper Technique: Stand with your feet shoulder-width apart and grip the axe or maul firmly with both hands. Swing the axe or maul in a smooth, controlled motion, aiming for the center of the log.
• Wear Safety Gear: Always wear safety glasses and gloves when splitting firewood.
• Consider a Log Splitter: For large quantities of firewood, consider using a log splitter. A log splitter can significantly reduce the amount of time and effort required to split wood.

Drying and Seasoning Firewood

Once you’ve split your firewood, it’s important to dry and season it properly. Seasoning is the process of reducing the moisture content of the wood, which makes it burn more efficiently and produce less smoke.

• Stack the Wood: Stack the wood in a well-ventilated area, away from direct sunlight and rain.
• Elevate the Wood: Elevate the wood off the ground to allow for better airflow.
• Allow Time for Seasoning: Allow the wood to season for at least six months, or preferably a year. The longer the wood seasons, the better it will burn.
• Check Moisture Content: Use a moisture meter to check the moisture content of the wood. The ideal moisture content for firewood is below 20%.

Seasoned firewood will be lighter in weight and have cracks on the ends. It will also produce a clear, ringing sound when struck.

Conclusion

Finding a Stihl MS 660 for sale can be a worthwhile investment for anyone serious about logging, milling, or firewood preparation. By following these expert chainsaw hacks, you can increase your chances of finding a good deal and ensuring the long-term performance of your saw. Remember to prioritize safety, maintain your equipment properly, and understand the properties of different wood types. With the right tools and knowledge, you can tackle even the most demanding wood-cutting tasks with confidence.

Learn more