Stihl MS170 Bar and Chain Maintenance (5 Expert Tips)

Do you remember the satisfying rumble of your first chainsaw, the smell of fresh-cut wood filling the air? For many, that first experience often involves a reliable workhorse like the Stihl MS170. But even the most dependable tool needs some TLC to keep it purring. Today, I’m diving deep into Stihl MS170 bar and chain maintenance. I’ll share five expert tips, and, because I know cost is always a concern, I’ll also break down the expenses involved, drawing from my own experiences and industry data. Let’s get started!

Stihl MS170 Bar and Chain Maintenance: 5 Expert Tips

Maintaining your Stihl MS170 bar and chain is crucial for safety, performance, and longevity. Neglecting these components can lead to inefficient cutting, increased wear and tear on the entire chainsaw, and potentially dangerous situations. Let’s explore five expert tips to keep your MS170 running smoothly.

1. Chain Sharpening: The Key to Efficient Cutting

A dull chain is not only frustrating, but it’s also dangerous. It forces you to apply more pressure, which can lead to kickback and increased strain on the chainsaw’s engine.

• Why Sharpen? A sharp chain bites into the wood effortlessly, creating clean cuts and reducing the risk of binding. It also saves you time and fuel.
• When to Sharpen: As a rule of thumb, sharpen your chain every time you refuel. You’ll also want to sharpen it if you notice any of the following:
  • The saw produces fine sawdust instead of chips.
  • You have to force the saw through the wood.
  • The saw pulls to one side while cutting.
  • You see smoke even with a properly lubricated chain.
• How to Sharpen: You have several options:
  • Hand Filing: This is the most common and affordable method. Use a round file of the correct size for your chain (typically 5/32″ for the MS170). Follow the angles marked on the chain’s cutters and maintain a consistent stroke.
  • Electric Chain Sharpener: These sharpeners offer more precision and speed, but they require an initial investment.
  • Professional Sharpening: If you’re unsure about sharpening yourself, take your chain to a professional. This will cost you a bit more, but it ensures a properly sharpened chain.
• Personal Experience: I remember once trying to fell a small oak tree with a severely dull chain. It took me nearly twice as long, and the saw was working incredibly hard. After sharpening the chain, the difference was night and day. The saw sliced through the wood with ease, making the job much safer and more efficient.

2. Bar Maintenance: Keeping it Straight and True

The chainsaw bar guides the chain and plays a critical role in the cutting process. Proper maintenance ensures that the bar remains straight, the chain runs smoothly, and the sprocket wears evenly.

• Cleaning: Regularly clean the bar groove with a bar groove cleaner or a small screwdriver to remove sawdust, debris, and accumulated oil. This ensures proper chain lubrication and prevents premature wear.
• Flipping: Flip the bar regularly to ensure even wear on both sides. This will extend the life of the bar and prevent it from becoming bent or warped.
• Checking for Damage: Inspect the bar for any signs of damage, such as burrs, cracks, or excessive wear. Remove burrs with a file and replace the bar if you find any cracks or significant wear.
• Lubrication: Ensure that the bar is properly lubricated. The oiler should be delivering a steady stream of oil to the bar and chain. Check the oil level frequently and refill as needed. Using the correct type of bar and chain oil is also essential.
• Personal Experience: I once neglected to clean the bar groove on my chainsaw, and the build-up of sawdust eventually clogged the oiler. This led to the chain overheating and stretching, requiring me to replace it prematurely. Now, I make it a point to clean the bar groove after every use.

3. Chain Tension: Finding the Sweet Spot

Proper chain tension is crucial for safe and efficient cutting. Too loose, and the chain can derail or cause excessive vibration. Too tight, and it can overheat, stretch, and damage the bar and sprocket.

• Checking Tension: To check the chain tension, pull the chain away from the bar in the middle of the underside. You should be able to pull it out about 1/8 inch.
• Adjusting Tension: Most chainsaws have a tensioning screw located on the side of the saw. Loosen the bar nuts and use the tensioning screw to adjust the chain tension. Tighten the bar nuts securely after adjusting.
• Hot vs. Cold Tension: Remember to adjust the chain tension when the chain is cold. The chain will expand as it heats up during use.
• Personal Experience: I learned the importance of proper chain tension the hard way. I was cutting firewood one day when the chain suddenly came off the bar. Fortunately, I wasn’t injured, but it could have been much worse. After that, I always made sure to check and adjust the chain tension before each use.

4. Oiler Maintenance: Keeping Everything Slick

Proper lubrication is essential for the life of your bar and chain. The oiler delivers oil to the bar and chain, reducing friction and preventing overheating.

• Checking Oiler Function: Before each use, check that the oiler is working correctly. Start the saw and hold it over a piece of cardboard. You should see a steady stream of oil being ejected from the bar.
• Cleaning the Oiler: If the oiler isn’t working properly, it may be clogged. Clean the oiler port and filter to remove any debris.
• Using the Right Oil: Use only high-quality bar and chain oil. Avoid using motor oil or other substitutes, as they may not provide adequate lubrication and can damage the saw. Stihl makes excellent bar and chain oil.
• Personal Experience: I once used the wrong type of oil in my chainsaw, and it quickly gummed up the oiler. This caused the chain to overheat and seize, requiring me to take the saw to a repair shop. Since then, I’ve always been careful to use the correct type of oil.

5. Storage: Protecting Your Investment

Proper storage is essential for protecting your chainsaw from damage and extending its life.

• Cleaning: Before storing your chainsaw, clean it thoroughly to remove sawdust, debris, and oil.
• Draining Fuel: Drain the fuel tank to prevent the fuel from going stale and gumming up the carburetor. You can also use a fuel stabilizer to prevent fuel degradation.
• Storing the Bar and Chain: Remove the bar and chain and clean them thoroughly. Store them in a dry place to prevent rust. You can also coat them with a light oil to protect them from corrosion.
• Storing the Saw: Store the chainsaw in a dry, well-ventilated area. Avoid storing it in direct sunlight or extreme temperatures.
• Personal Experience: I used to store my chainsaw in a damp shed, and it quickly developed rust and corrosion. Now, I store it in a dry garage, and it’s in much better condition.

The Cost of Maintaining Your Stihl MS170: A Deep Dive

Now, let’s talk about money. Maintaining a Stihl MS170 involves several costs, from consumables like bar and chain oil to replacement parts and professional services. I’ll break down these costs based on my experience and industry data. Keep in mind that prices can vary significantly depending on your location and the specific products you choose.

Consumables: The Ongoing Expenses

These are the recurring costs you’ll encounter as you use your chainsaw.

• Bar and Chain Oil: This is arguably the most crucial consumable. You’ll need to keep your bar and chain well-lubricated to prevent wear and tear.
  • Cost: A gallon of high-quality bar and chain oil typically costs between $15 and $30. I’ve found that Stihl’s own brand is usually a good value, even if it’s slightly more expensive. I typically go through about 1 gallon per year with moderate use (around 20-30 hours).
  • Data Point: According to a survey by Forestry Equipment Magazine, the average logger spends approximately $100-$200 per year on bar and chain oil per chainsaw, depending on usage intensity.
• Chain Sharpening Supplies: Whether you’re using hand files or an electric sharpener, you’ll need supplies to keep your chain sharp.
  • Cost: A good quality round file (5/32″ for the MS170) costs around $5-$10. A file guide can add another $10-$15. An electric chain sharpener can range from $50 to $200, depending on the features and brand. I personally prefer hand filing for the MS170 as it gives me better control and is more cost-effective.
• Fuel: The MS170 requires a mix of gasoline and 2-cycle engine oil.
  • Cost: The cost of gasoline varies depending on your location. A gallon of gasoline typically costs between $3 and $5. 2-cycle engine oil costs around $10-$20 per quart. I usually mix a 50:1 ratio, as recommended by Stihl.
  • Data Point: The U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA) provides updated gasoline price data by region. Always check local prices to get an accurate estimate.
• Cleaning Supplies: You’ll need cleaning supplies to keep your chainsaw clean and free of debris.
  • Cost: A can of carburetor cleaner costs around $5-$10. You can also use compressed air to blow out debris.

Replacement Parts: When Things Break Down

Even with proper maintenance, parts will eventually wear out and need to be replaced.

• Chains: Chains are consumable items that will eventually need to be replaced.
  • Cost: A replacement chain for the Stihl MS170 typically costs between $20 and $40. The price depends on the length and type of chain. I usually buy two chains at a time to have a spare on hand.
• Bars: Chainsaw bars can also wear out or become damaged.
  • Cost: A replacement bar for the Stihl MS170 typically costs between $30 and $60.
• Spark Plugs: Spark plugs should be replaced periodically to ensure proper engine performance.
  • Cost: A replacement spark plug for the Stihl MS170 costs around $5-$10.
• Air Filters: Air filters should be cleaned regularly and replaced when necessary.
  • Cost: A replacement air filter for the Stihl MS170 costs around $5-$10.
• Fuel Filters: Fuel filters should also be replaced periodically to prevent fuel contamination.
  • Cost: A replacement fuel filter for the Stihl MS170 costs around $5-$10.
• Recoil Starter Rope: The recoil starter rope can break over time.
  • Cost: A replacement recoil starter rope costs around $5-$15. Replacing it yourself is a relatively simple task.
• Carburetor Rebuild Kit: If your chainsaw is running poorly, the carburetor may need to be rebuilt.
  • Cost: A carburetor rebuild kit for the Stihl MS170 costs around $20-$40.
• Personal Note: I once had to replace the carburetor on my MS170 after it sat unused for a long period. The fuel had gummed up the carburetor, making it impossible to start the saw. Rebuilding the carburetor was a relatively straightforward process, and it saved me the cost of buying a new chainsaw.

Professional Services: When You Need Help

Sometimes, you’ll need to take your chainsaw to a professional for repairs or maintenance.

• Chain Sharpening: If you’re not comfortable sharpening your chain yourself, you can take it to a professional.
  • Cost: Professional chain sharpening typically costs between $10 and $20 per chain.
• Repairs: If your chainsaw needs more extensive repairs, you’ll need to take it to a qualified repair shop.
  • Cost: The cost of repairs can vary depending on the problem. A simple repair, such as replacing a spark plug or air filter, may cost around $20-$50. More complex repairs, such as rebuilding the carburetor or replacing the engine, can cost several hundred dollars.
  • Data Point: According to Small Engine Repair Magazine, the average cost of a chainsaw repair is between $75 and $150.
• Tune-ups: A tune-up can help keep your chainsaw running smoothly and prevent future problems.
  • Cost: A chainsaw tune-up typically costs between $50 and $100.

Budgeting for Stihl MS170 Maintenance: A Practical Approach

Creating a budget for your Stihl MS170 maintenance can help you avoid unexpected expenses and keep your chainsaw running smoothly for years to come.

• Estimate Annual Usage: Determine how many hours you’ll be using your chainsaw each year. This will help you estimate your consumption of bar and chain oil, fuel, and other consumables.
• Track Expenses: Keep track of all your chainsaw-related expenses, including consumables, replacement parts, and professional services.
• Set Aside Funds: Set aside a certain amount of money each month or year to cover your chainsaw maintenance expenses.
• Consider a Maintenance Plan: Some dealerships offer maintenance plans that cover the cost of routine maintenance, such as chain sharpening, oil changes, and spark plug replacement.
• DIY vs. Professional: Decide which tasks you’re comfortable performing yourself and which ones you’ll need to hire a professional for.
• Shop Around: Compare prices for consumables, replacement parts, and professional services from different suppliers.
• Personal Story: I once neglected to budget for chainsaw maintenance, and I was caught off guard when my chainsaw needed a major repair. Since then, I’ve always made sure to set aside funds for chainsaw maintenance each year.

Cost Optimization Tips: Saving Money Without Sacrificing Performance

Here are some practical tips to help you save money on Stihl MS170 maintenance without sacrificing performance.

• Buy in Bulk: Purchase bar and chain oil, fuel, and other consumables in bulk to save money.
• Sharpen Your Own Chain: Learn how to sharpen your own chain to avoid the cost of professional sharpening.
• Perform Routine Maintenance: Perform routine maintenance tasks, such as cleaning the air filter and spark plug, to prevent more serious problems.
• Store Your Chainsaw Properly: Store your chainsaw in a dry, well-ventilated area to prevent rust and corrosion.
• Use the Right Fuel: Use the correct type of fuel and oil mix to prevent engine damage.
• Avoid Overloading the Saw: Avoid overloading the saw by cutting wood that is too thick or too hard.
• Take Advantage of Warranties: If your chainsaw is still under warranty, take advantage of it to get free repairs or replacements.
• Look for Discounts: Look for discounts on consumables, replacement parts, and professional services.
• Consider Used Parts: For some repairs, you may be able to save money by using used parts. However, be sure to inspect used parts carefully before installing them.
• Regular Cleaning: Clean your chainsaw after each use. A clean saw runs cooler and more efficiently.
• Personal Experience: I’ve found that buying bar and chain oil in bulk and sharpening my own chain has saved me a significant amount of money over the years. It might seem like a small saving, but it adds up!

Calculations and Formulas: Understanding the Numbers

Understanding some basic calculations and formulas can help you make informed decisions about chainsaw maintenance and wood processing.

• Fuel Mix Ratio: To calculate the correct fuel mix ratio, divide the amount of gasoline by the desired ratio. For example, for a 50:1 ratio, you would mix 50 parts gasoline with 1 part 2-cycle engine oil.
• Chain Speed: Chain speed is the speed at which the chain travels around the bar. It is calculated by multiplying the engine speed (RPM) by the sprocket size and the chain pitch.

• Board Feet: Board feet is a unit of measurement for lumber. One board foot is equal to a piece of lumber that is 1 inch thick, 12 inches wide, and 12 inches long. To calculate the number of board feet in a log, you can use the following formula:

  (Diameter in inches – 4)2 / 16 * Length in feet = Board Feet (Doyle Scale) * Cords: A cord is a unit of measurement for firewood. One cord is equal to a stack of wood that is 4 feet high, 4 feet wide, and 8 feet long. To estimate the number of cords in a pile of wood, you can use the following formula:

  (Height in feet * Width in feet * Length in feet) / 128 = Cords * Drying Time: The drying time for firewood depends on the type of wood, the climate, and the stacking method. As a general rule, firewood should be dried for at least six months before burning. * Personal Tip: I keep a small notebook with these formulas handy in my workshop. It helps me quickly estimate quantities and make informed decisions.

Case Studies: Real-World Examples

Let’s look at some real-world examples of how budgeting and cost management can impact wood harvesting and firewood preparation projects.

• Case Study 1: Small-Scale Logger: A small-scale logger in the Pacific Northwest was struggling to make a profit due to high operating costs. By implementing a strict budget and focusing on cost optimization, they were able to reduce their expenses by 15% and increase their profitability. They achieved this by buying fuel and oil in bulk, performing their own equipment maintenance, and negotiating better prices with their timber buyers.
• Case Study 2: Firewood Supplier: A firewood supplier in the Northeast was facing increasing competition from larger companies. By investing in more efficient equipment, such as a log splitter and a firewood processor, they were able to increase their production capacity and reduce their labor costs. They also implemented a marketing strategy to attract new customers and retain existing ones.
• Case Study 3: Independent Wood Processor: An independent wood processor in the Midwest was looking to expand their business. By conducting a thorough cost analysis and developing a detailed budget, they were able to secure a loan from a local bank and invest in new equipment and facilities. They also implemented a quality control program to ensure that their products met the highest standards.
• My Personal Experience: I once helped a friend who was starting a small firewood business. We created a detailed budget that included all the costs involved, from purchasing logs to delivering the firewood to customers. By carefully tracking our expenses and making adjustments as needed, we were able to keep the business profitable.

Actionable Takeaways and Next Steps

So, you’ve reached the end of this deep dive into Stihl MS170 bar and chain maintenance and the associated costs. Now, what are the actionable steps you can take?

1. Assess Your Needs: Determine how often you use your chainsaw and what types of tasks you perform. This will help you estimate your maintenance costs and create a realistic budget.
2. Create a Budget: Develop a detailed budget that includes all the costs associated with chainsaw maintenance, including consumables, replacement parts, and professional services.
3. Implement a Maintenance Schedule: Create a maintenance schedule and stick to it. This will help you prevent problems and extend the life of your chainsaw.
4. Learn Basic Maintenance Skills: Learn how to perform basic maintenance tasks, such as chain sharpening, air filter cleaning, and spark plug replacement.
5. Shop Around for the Best Deals: Compare prices for consumables, replacement parts, and professional services from different suppliers.
6. Track Your Expenses: Keep track of all your chainsaw-related expenses so you can monitor your budget and make adjustments as needed.
7. Invest in Quality Tools and Supplies: Invest in high-quality tools and supplies that will last longer and perform better.
8. Join a Community: Connect with other chainsaw users online or in person to share tips and advice.
9. Consider Professional Training: If you’re serious about wood processing or firewood preparation, consider taking a professional training course.
10. Start Small, Learn as You Go: Don’t be afraid to start small and learn as you go. With practice and experience, you’ll become a more skilled and efficient chainsaw user.

Maintaining your Stihl MS170 doesn’t have to be a daunting task. By following these expert tips and managing your costs effectively, you can keep your chainsaw running smoothly for years to come. Remember, a well-maintained chainsaw is a safe and efficient chainsaw. Now get out there and make some sawdust!

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