When It’s Time To Sharpen
• The saw does not cut in a straight line.
• The cutters are not properly sharpened.
• The chain chatters and jumps - the depth gauge needs
adjustment.
• You are getting fine saw dust instead of saw chips.
Construction of STIHL Saw Chain
STIHL saw chains are 3-link chains
and are always assembled in the
same basic pattern. The
illustration shows the
component parts
of a typical chain.
The important
characteristics
which define a chain are the chain
pitch, drive link gauge and chain length.
Pitch is the distance between the
centers of any three rivets and dividing
the measurement by two. The result is
the pitch in inches (3/8”). The pitch
size in inches is stamped on each
depth gauge.
Drive link gauge As the engine turns
the sprocket it engages the drive links
and propels the chain. The drive link
must match the width of the guide bar
groove so that the chain exactly fits the
bar. This measurement is quoted in
inches or millimeters of the thickness of
the bottom of the drive link. There are
chains with drive link gauges of .043”
(1.1 mm), .050” (1.3 mm), .058” (1.5 mm)
and .063” (1.6 mm). The last digit of the
measurement in millimeters is stamped
on every drive link.
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Important Information
The occurrence called “kickback” can cause
serious or fatal injuries. Always read Owner’s Manual
carefully before using your saw. In th U.S.A., STIHL has
developed a color code system using green and yellow
to help you select a power head, bar and chain combi-
nation that complies with the kickback requirements of
ANSI Standard B 175.1-2000. Ask your STIHL dealer
about safety operating procedures and the advantages
of the STIHL Quickstop
®
chain brake, STIHL reduced
kickback bars, and STIHL low kickback saw chains.
In Canada, STIHL saw chain meets kickback
requirements of CSA Standard Z62.3 M1990 when tested
on a representative sample of chain saws.
Chain Care Rules
1. Avoid hitting dirt, rocks or any other abrasive
material while cutting.
2. Check the chain tension often. Never allow the chain
to sag. (See page 7).
3. Never force a dull chain to cut, it increases the risk
of injury and will damage the bar and chain.
4. Never install a new chain without replacing a worn
sprocket.
5. Always sharpen cutters to correct angles. (See
pages 8-9).
6. Measure the depth gauges with every sharpening
and lower as necessary. (See page 10)
7. Check the entire chain often for visible wear or
damage. (See pages 13-16 for common wear
problems).
8. Check the depth of the bar groove for proper drive
link clearance, examine the bar rails for even wear,
and clean bar groove.
9. Always wear gloves when handling chain.
10.
Keep scabbard on the bar when the saw is not in use.
11. Make sure that your chain is always properly
lubricated. (See page 6).
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Pitch a/2
Drive link gauge
Bar groove width
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