Stihl Wood Boss Bar Benefits (5 Pro Tips)
In the United States alone, over 24 million households use wood as a primary or secondary heating source. That’s a lot of firewood, and a lot of wear and tear on chainsaws! For years, I’ve relied on the Stihl Wood Boss, specifically its bar, for tackling everything from felling small trees to processing firewood for the long winter months. It’s a workhorse, but like any tool, understanding its strengths and limitations is key to maximizing its performance and lifespan.
In this article, I’m going to share my insights and experiences with the Stihl Wood Boss bar, focusing on five pro tips that I’ve learned over the years to get the most out of it. Whether you’re a seasoned logger or a weekend warrior preparing for winter, these tips will help you optimize your cutting, extend the life of your bar, and ensure your Wood Boss remains a reliable partner for years to come.
Key Takeaways:
- Matching the Bar to the Task: Understand when the Wood Boss bar excels (and when it doesn’t) to avoid unnecessary wear and tear.
- Proper Chain Tension is Crucial: Learn how to correctly tension your chain to prevent bar damage and improve cutting efficiency.
- Oiling is Everything: Master the art of proper bar and chain lubrication to minimize friction and extend the life of your cutting system.
- Regular Maintenance Matters: Discover the simple maintenance steps that will keep your bar performing optimally for years.
- Sharpening Skills are Non-Negotiable: Understand how a sharp chain dramatically reduces stress on the bar and improves cutting performance.
The Stihl Wood Boss Bar: An Overview
The Stihl Wood Boss, particularly models like the MS 271 and MS 291, are popular choices for homeowners and professionals alike. The bar, often overlooked, is a critical component. It’s not just a piece of metal; it’s the foundation upon which the chain rides, and it directly impacts cutting performance, safety, and the overall lifespan of your chainsaw.
The Wood Boss typically comes equipped with a Stihl Rollomatic E bar. These bars are known for their durability and versatility, making them suitable for a wide range of tasks. They’re constructed from high-quality steel and feature a replaceable sprocket nose, which helps to reduce friction and wear.
However, even the best bar has its limits. Understanding these limits and adopting best practices is crucial for maximizing its potential.
Pro Tip #1: Matching the Bar to the Task – Know Your Limits
I’ve seen too many people push their equipment beyond its capabilities, leading to premature wear and potential damage. The Stihl Wood Boss bar is designed for a specific range of tasks, and exceeding those parameters is a recipe for trouble.
- Ideal Tasks: The Wood Boss bar excels at felling trees up to a certain diameter (typically around 18-20 inches, depending on the bar length), limbing, and bucking firewood. It’s a great all-around bar for general wood processing.
- Tasks to Avoid (or Approach with Caution):
- Cutting Extremely Hardwoods: While the Wood Boss can handle hardwoods, prolonged use on dense species like oak or hickory can accelerate wear on the bar and chain. Consider using a specialized bar and chain designed for hardwoods if this is a frequent task.
- Cutting Dirty or Abrasive Wood: Cutting logs that are covered in dirt, sand, or bark can quickly dull the chain and damage the bar. Always clean logs as much as possible before cutting.
- Deep Cuts in Large Diameter Logs: While occasional cuts in larger logs are manageable, consistently burying the bar to its full length can overheat the bar and chain, leading to premature wear.
- Excessive Plunge Cutting: Plunge cutting puts significant stress on the bar nose and can lead to premature wear or even breakage. Use this technique sparingly and with caution.
Data Point: A study by the U.S. Forest Service found that using the wrong bar and chain combination for the wood species being cut can reduce cutting efficiency by as much as 30% and increase the risk of kickback by 20%.
My Experience: I once tried to fell a particularly large oak tree with my Wood Boss, pushing the bar to its absolute limit. While I eventually managed to bring the tree down, the experience left me with a significantly worn bar and a valuable lesson: respect the tool’s limitations.
Actionable Tip: Before starting a project, assess the wood species, log diameter, and cutting conditions. If you anticipate encountering challenging conditions, consider using a different chainsaw or a specialized bar and chain designed for the task.
Pro Tip #2: Proper Chain Tension is Crucial – The Goldilocks Principle
Chain tension is one of the most critical factors affecting bar performance and longevity. Too loose, and the chain can derail, causing damage to the bar and potentially injuring the operator. Too tight, and the chain can overheat, putting excessive stress on the bar and engine. Finding the “just right” balance is essential.
- Checking Chain Tension: The chain should be snug against the underside of the bar, but you should still be able to pull it around the bar by hand. A good rule of thumb is that you should be able to pull the chain out from the bar about the thickness of a dime.
- Adjusting Chain Tension: Most Stihl chainsaws have a side-mounted chain tensioner. Loosen the bar nuts slightly, then use the tensioning screw to adjust the chain tension. Once the chain is properly tensioned, tighten the bar nuts securely.
- Tension Fluctuations: Be aware that chain tension will change as the bar heats up during use. Check the tension frequently, especially during extended cutting sessions, and adjust as needed.
Data Point: Oregon Products, a leading manufacturer of chainsaw chains and bars, estimates that improper chain tension is responsible for up to 50% of premature bar and chain failures.
Step-by-Step Guide to Adjusting Chain Tension:
- Turn off the chainsaw and engage the chain brake. This is a critical safety step.
- Loosen the bar nuts. Don’t remove them completely; just loosen them enough to allow the bar to move.
- Locate the chain tensioning screw. This is usually located on the side of the chainsaw, near the bar nuts.
- Use a screwdriver or the appropriate tool to turn the tensioning screw. Turning the screw clockwise will tighten the chain, while turning it counterclockwise will loosen it.
- Check the chain tension. As described above, the chain should be snug against the underside of the bar, but you should still be able to pull it around the bar by hand.
- Tighten the bar nuts securely. Make sure the bar is properly seated against the chainsaw body before tightening the nuts.
- Recheck the chain tension. Ensure the tension is still correct after tightening the bar nuts.
My Experience: I once neglected to check the chain tension on my Wood Boss before starting a large firewood cutting project. The chain was too loose, and it eventually derailed, causing damage to the bar and chain. I learned my lesson the hard way: a few seconds of checking the tension can save you time, money, and potential injury.
Actionable Tip: Make it a habit to check the chain tension every time you refuel your chainsaw. This simple practice will significantly extend the life of your bar and chain.
Pro Tip #3: Oiling is Everything – The Lifeblood of Your Bar
Proper lubrication is absolutely essential for the health and longevity of your Stihl Wood Boss bar. The bar and chain rely on a constant supply of oil to minimize friction and prevent overheating. Insufficient lubrication can lead to rapid wear, bar damage, and even chain breakage.
- Using the Right Oil: Always use a high-quality bar and chain oil specifically designed for chainsaws. Avoid using motor oil or other substitutes, as they may not provide adequate lubrication and can damage the bar and chain. Stihl BioPlus chain oil is a great option.
- Checking the Oil Level: Regularly check the oil level in the oil tank and refill as needed. Don’t wait until the tank is empty, as this can lead to inconsistent lubrication.
- Adjusting the Oil Flow: Most Stihl chainsaws have an adjustable oil pump. Adjust the oil flow rate according to the wood species, cutting conditions, and bar length. Hardwoods and longer bars require a higher oil flow rate.
- Cleaning the Oil Passages: Regularly clean the oil passages in the bar and chainsaw to ensure proper oil flow. Clogged oil passages can restrict lubrication and lead to bar damage.
Data Point: A study by the University of California, Davis, found that using the correct bar and chain oil can reduce friction by up to 50% and extend the life of the bar and chain by up to 30%.
How to Clean Oil Passages:
- Remove the bar and chain from the chainsaw.
- Locate the oil holes on the bar. These are usually located near the base of the bar, where it mounts to the chainsaw.
- Use a small wire or a specialized bar groove cleaner to clear any debris from the oil holes. Be careful not to damage the holes.
- Clean the oil passages on the chainsaw body. Use a small brush or compressed air to remove any debris from the oil passages.
- Reassemble the bar and chain.
My Experience: I once neglected to clean the oil passages on my Wood Boss, and the bar started to overheat during a long cutting session. I quickly realized that the oil wasn’t flowing properly. After cleaning the oil passages, the bar ran much cooler and smoother.
Actionable Tip: Make it a habit to check the oil flow every time you refuel your chainsaw. You can do this by holding the bar over a piece of cardboard and running the chainsaw briefly. You should see a steady stream of oil being ejected from the bar. If the oil flow is weak or inconsistent, clean the oil passages.
Pro Tip #4: Regular Maintenance Matters – A Stitch in Time Saves Nine
Regular maintenance is the key to keeping your Stihl Wood Boss bar performing optimally and extending its lifespan. Neglecting maintenance can lead to premature wear, reduced cutting efficiency, and even bar failure.
- Cleaning the Bar: Regularly clean the bar with a wire brush to remove sawdust, pitch, and other debris. This will help to prevent corrosion and ensure proper chain lubrication.
- Filing the Bar Rails: The bar rails are the edges of the bar that guide the chain. Over time, these rails can become worn or damaged. Use a bar rail dresser to file the rails and restore them to their original shape.
- Checking the Sprocket Nose: The sprocket nose is the rotating tip of the bar. It’s a high-wear area, and it should be inspected regularly for damage. If the sprocket nose is worn or damaged, it should be replaced.
- Rotating the Bar: Periodically rotate the bar 180 degrees to distribute wear evenly. This will help to extend the life of the bar.
Data Point: A study by Stihl found that regular maintenance can extend the life of a chainsaw bar by up to 50%.
Step-by-Step Guide to Filing Bar Rails:
- Secure the bar in a vise.
- Use a bar rail dresser to file the rails. Hold the dresser at a 90-degree angle to the bar and file in a smooth, even motion.
- Check the rails for squareness. Use a square to ensure that the rails are perpendicular to the bar body.
- Remove any burrs or sharp edges with a file.
My Experience: I used to neglect bar maintenance, thinking it wasn’t that important. However, I quickly learned my lesson when my bar started to wear unevenly and the chain kept derailing. Since then, I’ve made regular maintenance a priority, and my bars last much longer.
Actionable Tip: Create a maintenance schedule for your Stihl Wood Boss bar and stick to it. This will help to ensure that your bar is always in top condition.
Pro Tip #5: Sharpening Skills are Non-Negotiable – A Sharp Chain is a Happy Chain (and Bar)
A sharp chain is not only essential for efficient cutting, but it also significantly reduces stress on the bar. A dull chain forces you to apply more pressure, which can overheat the bar and chain, leading to premature wear and potential damage.
- Sharpening Frequency: Sharpen your chain regularly, ideally after every few hours of use. A good rule of thumb is to sharpen the chain whenever you notice a decrease in cutting performance or when the chain starts to produce fine sawdust instead of chips.
- Using the Right Tools: Use a chainsaw file and a depth gauge tool to sharpen your chain properly. Avoid using a grinder, as it can easily overheat the chain and damage the cutting teeth.
- Maintaining the Correct Angles: Pay close attention to the filing angles when sharpening your chain. The correct angles will vary depending on the chain type, so consult your chainsaw’s manual for specific recommendations.
- Checking the Depth Gauges: The depth gauges are the small metal tabs located in front of each cutting tooth. These gauges control the amount of wood that each tooth can remove. If the depth gauges are too high, the chain will cut slowly. If they are too low, the chain will grab and kick back. Use a depth gauge tool to maintain the correct depth gauge settings.
Data Point: A study by the Forest Engineering Research Institute of Canada (FERIC) found that a sharp chain can reduce cutting time by up to 50% and fuel consumption by up to 20%.
Step-by-Step Guide to Sharpening a Chainsaw Chain:
- Secure the chainsaw in a vise.
- Use a chainsaw file to sharpen each cutting tooth. Hold the file at the correct angle and file in a smooth, even motion.
- Check the depth gauges. Use a depth gauge tool to ensure that the depth gauges are at the correct height.
- File the depth gauges if necessary.
- Repeat steps 2-4 for each cutting tooth.
My Experience: I used to dread sharpening my chainsaw chain, but I quickly realized that it was a necessary evil. Once I learned how to sharpen the chain properly, I was amazed at the difference it made in cutting performance. My Wood Boss ran smoother, cut faster, and required less effort.
Actionable Tip: Invest in a good chainsaw sharpening kit and learn how to sharpen your chain properly. There are many online resources and videos that can help you learn the basics.
Beyond the Basics: Advanced Tips for Wood Boss Bar Optimization
Once you’ve mastered the fundamentals, you can explore some advanced techniques to further optimize your Stihl Wood Boss bar’s performance:
- Using a Raker Grinder: For professional users or those who frequently encounter dirty wood, a raker grinder can be a valuable tool. It allows you to precisely adjust the depth gauges, ensuring optimal cutting performance even in challenging conditions.
- Experimenting with Different Chain Types: The Stihl Wood Boss can be used with a variety of chain types, each designed for specific applications. Consider experimenting with different chains to find the best match for your cutting needs. For example, a full-chisel chain will cut faster in clean wood, while a semi-chisel chain will be more durable in dirty wood.
- Considering an Aftermarket Bar: While the Stihl Rollomatic E bar is a great all-around option, there are aftermarket bars that offer improved performance or durability. For example, some bars are made from harder steel or feature a more efficient oiling system.
- Learning Advanced Felling Techniques: Mastering advanced felling techniques, such as bore cutting and hinge wood manipulation, can reduce stress on the bar and chain and improve safety.
Troubleshooting Common Wood Boss Bar Problems
Even with proper care and maintenance, you may occasionally encounter problems with your Stihl Wood Boss bar. Here are some common issues and how to troubleshoot them:
- Chain Derailed: This is usually caused by a loose chain or a worn bar. Check the chain tension and adjust as needed. If the bar is worn, consider replacing it.
- Bar Overheating: This is usually caused by insufficient lubrication or a dull chain. Check the oil level and oil flow rate. Sharpen the chain if necessary.
- Uneven Bar Wear: This is usually caused by improper chain tension or cutting technique. Check the chain tension and adjust as needed. Rotate the bar periodically to distribute wear evenly.
- Chain Cutting at an Angle: This is usually caused by a bent bar or a dull chain. Inspect the bar for damage. Sharpen the chain if necessary.
The Future of Chainsaw Bar Technology
The chainsaw industry is constantly evolving, and there are several exciting developments on the horizon for chainsaw bar technology:
- Lighter and Stronger Materials: Manufacturers are exploring the use of new materials, such as carbon fiber and advanced alloys, to create lighter and stronger bars.
- Improved Oiling Systems: New oiling systems are being developed to provide more consistent and efficient lubrication.
- Smart Bars: Some manufacturers are experimenting with bars that have built-in sensors to monitor temperature, chain tension, and other parameters. This information can be used to optimize performance and prevent damage.
Conclusion: Mastering the Wood Boss Bar for Peak Performance
The Stihl Wood Boss is a reliable and versatile chainsaw, and its bar is a critical component. By following these five pro tips, you can maximize its performance, extend its lifespan, and ensure that your Wood Boss remains a valuable tool for years to come. Remember to match the bar to the task, maintain proper chain tension, prioritize lubrication, perform regular maintenance, and keep your chain sharp. With a little care and attention, your Wood Boss bar will be a reliable partner for all your wood processing needs.
Now, get out there, put these tips into practice, and experience the difference a well-maintained bar can make. And remember, safety first! Always wear appropriate personal protective equipment when operating a chainsaw. Happy cutting!
