Sharpening STIHL Saw Chains PDF

0457-181-0121_02.book Seite -1 Donnerstag, 13.
Dezember 2012 11:50 11
STIH)
Sharpening STIHL Saw Chains 2012-10

0457-181-0121_02.book Seite 0 Donnerstag, 13. Dezember 2012 11:50 11
Introduction
STIHL offers every user, from occasional to professional,

the right tools for maintaining the cutting attachment. Contents
The cutting attachment consists of the saw chain, guide STIHL Advanced Technology ..............................................1
bar and chain sprocket.
This handbook is intended as a guide to selecting and Construction of a Saw Chain ...............................................3
learning how to use the right tools for servicing your
cutting attachment. With a little practice you will be able to
sharpen your saw chains like a professional. Preparing the Saw Chain .....................................................6
Reading and observing the instructions in your chainsaw
manual and those for the use of the servicing tools is a Principles – Sharpening Saw Chain ..................................8
precondition for the operations described in this
handbook.
Filing Aids .............................................................................12
Please contact your STIHL dealer if you have any further
questions after reading this handbook.
Tensioning the Saw Chain .................................................17
Always wear protective gloves when working on Sharpening Errors and Damage ........................................18
and with the chainsaw and cutting attachment.
There is otherwise a risk of injury from the very
sharp cutters. Guide Bar Maintenance .....................................................23
Checking the Chain Sprocket ...........................................27
Determining the Correct Cutting Attachment .................28
Check List .............................................................................33

STIHL Advanced Technology
Apart from the quality and engine power of the chainsaw, STIHL is the only chainsaw manufacturer in the world to
cutting performance depends primarily on the choice of develop and produce its own saw chains and guide bars.
cutting attachment and its condition. STIHL has thus guaranteed since 1926 that the three
parts of the cutting attachment are always optimally
A properly sharpened, well maintained saw chain makes
matched to the chainsaw.
your work easier. It helps prolong the service life of the
whole cutting attachment, consisting of the saw chain, STIHL saw chains and guide bars not only provide
guide bar and chain sprocket. outstanding cutting performance on STIHL chainsaws,
but also on other brands of chainsaws.
Saw Chains
STIHL saw chains are This pre-stretching process

precision made in STIHL's reduces initial stretching of a
factories in Switzerland. They new chain to a minimum,
are produced on special increases durability and
production machinery custom reduces wear.
designed and built by STIHL.
 Comfort saw chains
 Smooth rivet holes
Almost all STIHL saw chains
A special punching process are comfort chains. They can
gives STIHL rivet holes a be identified by the letter "C"
smooth mirror-like finish. This stamped on each cutter.
enhances chain flexibility and
increases the chain's service The modified geometry of the
life. basic tooth body reduces
vibrations in the cut by up to
 Pre-stretching 70%.
Every length of STIHL chain is
subjected to a constant tensile
load at the end of the
production process.
1
STIHL Advanced Technology
Guide Bars Oilomatic System of Lubrication

STIHL guide bars are optimized in terms of their durability, This system ensures less friction and wear and thus
strength and weight. extends the useful life of the cutting attachment. Oil flows
up through fine oil channels in the drive links to the chain
joints and the running faces of the chain links. In addition,
 Complete symmetry chain oil collects in a number of dimples on both sides of
the drive links. This ensures an unbroken film of lubricant
As they are completely symmetrical, STIHL guide bars between the drive links and the bar rails.
can be turned over. This ensures even wear on both
sides. STIHL recommends the exclusive use of STIHL chain oils
to guarantee the best possible lubrication.
 Induction hardened bar rails
Induction hardening makes the bar rails more resilient and

wear resistant. The guide bar has a much longer life.
 Nose sprocket with encapsulated roller bearing
The standard encapsulated bearing prevents the ingress

of dirt and is maintenance free. The lubricant injected into
the bearing in the production process is sufficient to last
its entire service life.
2
Construction of a Saw Chain
STIHL saw chains are three-link chains and always They differ in the shape of the cutters and the dimensions
assembled in the same basic pattern. of the individual links.
Saw chains consist of the drive links (1), the tie straps (2), A STIHL saw chain can be repaired by your STIHL
the left hand cutters (3) and right hand cutters (4). servicing dealer by replacing individual links.
Low kickback saw chains have a humped drive link (5)

and are identified by the digit 3 in their designation, e.g. 36
RS3.
3
Cutters
The cutter consists of the basic tooth body (1), the depth
gauge (5) and top plate (2) with side plate cutting edge (4)
and top plate cutting edge (3).
Side and top plate cutting edges are at a given angle in

relation to one another; this is critical for optimum cutting
performance. The angle is obtained automatically if the
exact sharpening angles are observed.
Method of operation
The cutters work on the chipper tooth principle.
They remove chips from the wood. In this process the top
plate cutting edge lifts the chip off the bottom of the cut
while the side plate cutting edge separates the chip from
the wall of the cut.
The depth gauge setting determines the height at which

the cutter enters the wood and thus the thickness of the
chip removed.
The difference in height between the top of the depth

gauge and the leading edge of the top plate is known as
the depth gauge setting.
4
Filing angle Service and wear markings
ALTES 084 als Kette

dargestellt (Kalotten
„Golfballoptik“)
Hintergrund weg
Top plate cutting angle

Nearly all saw chains have service and wear markings to
simplify resharpening and enable the rate of wear to be
monitored:
1) Filing angle:
Marking for correct filing angle of top plate cutting edge

and the minimum cutter length. Chain must be replaced if
this marking is reached during resharpening.
2) Side plate angle:

Marking for correct angle of side plate and minimum cutter
length.
3) Depth gauge:
Side plate angle
Marking for correct angle of depth gauge and checking
wear. Contour of depth gauge must be filed back parallel
to this marking.
4) Toe and heel wear:
Reference marking for wear on bottom of cutter (running

faces). Uniform wear parallel to marking indicates normal
chain wear.
{ Pro Tip
Experience has shown that it is best to use four saw
chains with two chain sprockets and one guide bar in
rotation. (4-2-1 principle)
To ensure the chain runs evenly and smoothly, all cutters

must be the same length and sharpened to the specified
angle.
5
Preparing the Saw Chain
One of the main advantages of the chipper tooth chain is Preparing the Saw Chain
that it can be resharpened with a round file.
An exception to this rule are STIHL carbide-tipped chains

which are called "Duro". They are particularly wear
resistant and their extremely hard cutting edges have to
be resharpened with special diamond grinding wheels.
Please contact your STIHL servicing dealer for more
information.
All other saw chains can be resharpened relatively easily

with the right tools and the right technique.
When does the chain need sharpening?
Even the best saw chain wears and becomes dull after a
certain period of use. It is time to resharpen the chain  Start by cleaning the saw chain thoroughly, e.g. with
when one of the following conditions occurs: STIHL resin solvent. You should examine the chain for
signs of damage at the same time. Replace any
 The chain does not pull itself into the cut, it has to be damaged or worn parts immediately.
forced to cut by applying pressure to the powerhead.
 When bucking, fine sawdust is pulled from the cut

instead of coarse, thick chips.
 Smoking in the cut even though chain lubrication is in ALTES 084 als Kette
order and chain tension is correct. dargestellt
 The cut wanders in one direction. This is an indication Hintergrund weg-
of dull cutters on one side of the chain or irregular ABER HIER ohne
cutter lengths. PosNummern
 The saw "chatters" and "bounces" during the cut. In
this case you must check the depth gauge settings.
 If the wear marks have been reached, install a new

chain.
 In such a case you should contact your STIHL

servicing dealer for advice.
6
Preparing the Saw Chain
Master cutter in right hand row
 Clamp the guide bar with the bar nose facing to the
left.
Master cutter in left hand row

 The chain must be tensioned tighter than normal for
resharpening. This prevents the cutters tipping and
makes it easier for you to maintain the correct angles.
After resharpening, restore chain tension to normal.
 Clamp the guide bar with the bar nose facing to the
right.
 Pull the master cutter into the filing position and the
lock the chain in position with the chain brake.
 Disengage the chain brake to pull the saw chain along

 Find the shortest cutter. the bar and engage the brake again before filing the
next cutters.
 Mark it as the master cutter. All other cutters in the
chain have to be matched to the same length.
Sharpen the master cutter first and then file all other
cutters back to the same length.
 Clamp the guide bar in a vise to suit the position of the

master cutter.
7
Principles – Sharpening Saw Chain
Selecting the file Holding the file

Select the diameter of the round file to suit the chain pitch.
 Hold the file handle firmly with one hand and guide the
file with the other hand across the cutter on the
 Check the code digit for the chain pitch on the forward stroke.
outboard side of the depth gauge.
 Start with the master cutter and position the file so that
 Refer to the table below to obtain the chain pitch. you can apply pressure and file from the inside to the
Each chain pitch is assigned to a specific round file outside of the cutter.
diameter.
Use only special saw chain sharpening files. Your STIHL

servicing dealer has a wide selection of high quality files.
Round file diameter
Code digit on
depth gauge
depth gauge
Chain pitch
marking on
alternative
1 1/4 1/4" 4.0 mm
2 325 .325" 4.8 mm  Always hold the file at a right angle (90°) to the guide
bar.
3 3/8 3/8" 5.2 mm
 The file only sharpens on the forward stroke – lift the
4 404 .404" 5.5 mm file off the cutter on the backstroke.
 Rotate the file a little at regular intervals while filing to

6 P, PM 3/8" Picco 4.0 mm
avoid one-sided wear.
7 1/4" Picco 3.2 mm
8
{ Pro Tip
Before you start sharpening, mark one cutter with a felt-
tip pen. After two or three strokes of the file, check how
much material has been removed.
STIHL saw chains are generally filed to an angle of 30° –

parallel to the service mark for the filing angle.
If the surface looks uniform, your filing action is correct.
 Hold the file so that one quarter of its diameter projects

above the top plate.
{ Pro Tip If there are still patches of color in places, check that
Providing you observed these rules you will achieve you are using the right file and make sure you are not
perfect sharpening results, the correct side plate and holding the file too high or too low.
top plate angles will be obtained automatically and best
possible cutting performance guaranteed.
 File the master cutter until the cutting edge is perfect.
9
Checking the result: Lowering depth gauges

If you can see dark areas on the cutting edge, the cutter The depth gauge setting becomes smaller when the cutter
is not yet sharp. is sharpened.
After sharpening the cutters, check the depth gauge

setting and lower it if necessary..
{ Pro Tip
The depth gauge setting may be increased by up to 0.2
mm for cutting soft wood in mild weather conditions –
no frost.
The filing gauge for the next chain pitch up may be
used for this purpose.
The cutting edge is properly sharpened when it is

Chain pitch Depth gauge setting
uniformly bright.
Inch (mm) mm Inch
1/4 6.35 0.65 0.026
1/4 P 6.35 0.45 0.018
.325 8.25 0.65 0.026
3/8 9.32 0.65 0.026
3/8 P 9.32 0.65 0.026
.404 10.26 0.80 0.031
Check the depth gauge setting with a filing gauge that

Then file all the cutters in that row to the same length, then
matches the chain pitch.
turn the chainsaw 180° and file all the cutters in the other
row. All cutters must be the same length as the master Refer to the description in the next chapter on b "Filing
cutter. Aids".
{ Pro Tip
 Never continue working with the chain until it is
completely dull. A few strokes of the file at regular
intervals quickly restores full sharpness.
 Count the number of file strokes and use the same
number on each cutter to obtain cutters of identical
length.
 If you find that the cutters in one row are shorter than
those in the other row, you have used more pressure
while filing the row concerned. Correct the length of
the cutters by performing one or two strokes of the file
on the longer cutters..
10
 Simply place the filing gauge on the saw chain. On saw chains with humped drive links the hump is
lowered along with the depth gauge.
If the depth gauge is higher than the filing gauge, if must
be lowered.
{ Pro Tip
The filing gauge is not made of file-hard material and is
therefore only suitable as a measuring tool. Remove
the filing gauge from the chain before filing the depth
gauge.
File the top of the depth gauge parallel to the service mark
– but do not lower the highest point of the depth gauge in
this process.
Take care not to touch the freshly sharpened cutter with

the flat file..
The kickback tendency of the chainsaw is

increased if the depth gauges are too low.
 File down the depth gauge until it is level with the filing
gauge.
{ Pro Tip
 Count the number of file strokes you need to lower the
first depth gauge.
 File down all others with the same number of strokes.
All depth gauge settings should then be the same..
Carry out a few random checks with the filing gauge.
11
Filing Aids
12
Filing Aids
A lot of experience is required to resharpen saw chain

manually with a round file and variations are unavoidable.
{ Pro Tip
Maintaining all the angles and dimensions when filing
freehand is very difficult and requires practice. STIHL The filing gauge is not made of file-hard material and is
therefore recommends the use of filing aids and a regular therefore only suitable as a measuring tool. Remove
inspection and correction by your STIHL servicing dealer. the filing gauge from the depth gauge before filing.
STIHL has a line of filing aids to suit the needs of every

A filing gauge allows depth gauge settings to be checked
user.
quickly and simply and should be used with all the
Filing gauge following filing aids, except the 2-in-1 file holder and the
FG 4.
Filing template
1) Cut-out for checking depth gauge setting
2) Sighting edge for filing angle
3) Bar groove cleaner and scale for measuring groove

depth The STIHL filing template is an easy-to-use tool that helps
you maintain the correct filing angle.
4) Sighting edge for side plate angle
It simply attaches to the guide bar by means of two
STIHL offers filing gauges for checking the depth gauge magnets and has raised sighting lines for the correct filing
settings and tooth angles. Choose the filing gauge that angle.
matches the chain pitch and you can then check all
necessary angles and dimensions. The filing gauge
greatly simplifies the process of checking and lowering the
depth gauges.
{ Pro Tip
Should you not achieve the desired result using the
filing template, STIHL recommends the use of
additional tools, e.g. file holder, file holder guide or
STIHL filing tools.
13
Filing Aids
File holder FF 1 file holder guide

If you don't want to rely on purely optical alignment aids
when sharpening the chain, the STIHL file holder guide is
the ideal supplement.
The STIHL file holder helps you keep the file at the correct
height and angle during filing. The file holder must match
the chain pitch.
 Select the file holder guide that matches the chain

pitch and place it over the chain on the guide bar at an
angle of 30°.
Resting the STIHL file holder properly on the top plate and
depth gauge ensures that the file is held at the right height
and the correct side plate angle is maintained. A 30° mark
on the file holder also helps you maintain the filing angle.
The file holder is held and guided laterally by the file
The filing template can be used as an additional optical holder guide and lined up at the correct filing angle of 30°
aid for file alignment. to the guide bar.
14
Filing Aids
 All you have to do is to slide the file holder through the The illustration shows section through the 2-in-1 file
file holder guide at a right angle to the guide bar. holder.
 Once you have sharpened all the cutters, check the The cutter is sharpened with the round file (1) and the
depth gauge setting and correct it if necessary. depth gauge lowered to the right setting with the flat file (2)
in a single operation. Both files are optimally positioned by
resting the guide rails (3) on the top plates.
2-in-1 file holder
FG 4
The FG 4 roller filing guide is an excellent aid for manual
filing.
STIHL recommends the 2-in-1 file holder if you want to

sharpen the cutters and lower the depth gauges in a
single operation.
Like the standard file holder, the 2-in-1 file holder keeps
the file at the correct height in the cutter. The arrangement  Select roller filing guide and round file that suit the
of the handles and markings offers you a very good optical chain pitch.
guide to maintaining the 30° filing angle.
 The roller filing guide is placed directly over the chain
on the guide bar and assists you in positioning the file
in all directions.
 Place the round file in the roller filing guide.
 The alignment of the file is ideal when it glides

smoothly and without snagging over the two lower
rollers at the correct filing angle.
15
Filing Aids
Filing tools
Manual filing tools are suitable for precision sharpening of
saw chains. They ensure accurate positioning of the file
and thus restore dull saw chains to full sharpness.
The stop for positioning the cutter to be sharpened

simplifies maintenance of identical cutter lengths.
FG 2
The FG 4 also has a small fold-out filing plate for checking

and lowering the depth gauges.
{ Pro Tip
The filing plate checks two different depth gauge
settings, one for hardwood and one for softwood..
The FG 2 is mounted to a bench. The saw chain has to be

removed from the guide bar for sharpening.
FG 1, FG 3
FG 1 and FG 3 are attached to the guide bar. They

otherwise operate in the same way as the FG 2.
This filing plate is specially hardened so that can be left it

position while the depth gauge is filed down.
The orientation of the filing plate makes it easier to
maintain the depth gauge setting and eliminates the need
to subsequently file the depth gauge at a sloping angle.
16
Tensioning the Saw Chain
The correct chain tension has a decisive influence on the

service life of the cutting attachment. It must therefore be
checked at regular intervals. It is normal for new chains to
stretch – even though this is reduced by "pre-stretching"
at the factory. Check and adjust chain tension frequently.
Chain tension should be reduced slightly when Carving

guide bars are used. In such cases half the drive links
should be visible on the underside of the bar.
This has to do with the very narrow bar nose radius and
the very high loads that occur there if chain tension is too
high.
The following applies for all other guide bars: if the saw
chain sags on the underside of the guide bar – retension
the chain.
You will find detailed instructions on how to tension the

saw chain in every STIHL chainsaw manual.
A properly tensioned chain fits snugly against the

underside of the bar and, with the chain brake
disengaged, it must still be possible to pull the chain along
the bar by hand.
17
Sharpening Errors and Damage
18
If a saw chain does not perform satisfactorily after sharpening, chatters, bounces or wanders in the cut, it should be checked
for possible sharpening errors.
Condition Sharpening error Remedy
Chain snatches Sharpening angle too acute (narrow)  Use filing aid to maintain sharpening angle
in cut
Hooked side plate angle  Use filing aid, hold file higher, use right (larger)
diameter file
Different side plate angles  Use filing aid, pay attention to uniform pressure
Different cutter lengths  Find master cutter and file back all cutters
to same length
Depth gauge setting too wide  If possible, file back cutters, the saw chain must
otherwise be replaced
Different depth gauge settings  Find shortest depth gauge, file back all cutters to suit
shortest depth gauge setting, correct all other depth
gauges
Poor cutting Sharpening angle too obtuse (wide)  Use filing aid to maintain sharpening angle
performance
Backsloping side plate angle  Use filing aid, hold file lower, use right (smaller)
diameter file
Depth gauge setting insufficient  Lower depth gauges, using filing gauge that matches
chain pitch
Cut wanders Different side plate angles  Use filing aid, pay attention to uniform pressure
Different filing angles  Use filing aid, pay attention to correct sharpening angle
on all cutters
Different cutter lengths  Find master cutter and file back all cutters
to same length
Different depth gauge settings  Find shortest depth gauge, file back all cutters to suit
shortest depth gauge setting, correct all other depth
gauges
Increased risk of Hooked side plate angle  Use filing aid, hold file higher, use right (larger)
kickback diameter file
Depth gauge setting too wide  If possible, file back cutters, the saw chain must
otherwise be replaced
Short edge life Sharpening angle too acute (narrow)  Use filing aid to maintain sharpening angle
Backsloping side plate angle  Use filing aid, hold file lower, use right (smaller)
diameter file
Hooked side plate angle  Use filing aid, hold file higher, use right (larger)
diameter file
The following pages show some common errors, their effects and remedies.
19
Sharpening angle too acute (narrow) Hooked side plate angle
Error Wrong sharpening angle Error File not held properly, wrong file
diameter
Effects Cutters bite too deeply into wood, snag
and stick, reduced life, high load on Effects Chain snatches in cut, short life,
saw chain increased risk of kickback
Remedy  Use filing aid to maintain sharpening Remedy  Use filing aid
angle
 Hold file higher
 Use right (larger) diameter file
Backsloping side plate angle

Sharpening angle too obtuse (wide)
Error File not held properly, wrong file

Error Wrong sharpening angle diameter
Effects Poor cutting performance, high feed Effects Poor cutting performance, high feed
effort required pressure required, greater physical
effort and wear rate
Remedy  Use filing aid to maintain sharpening
angle Remedy  Use filing aid
 Hold file lower
 Use right (smaller) diameter file
20
Different side plate angles Different cutter lengths
Error File not held properly, uneven Error Different amounts of material removed
pressures during filing
Effects Cut wanders, chain snatches Effects Cut wanders, chain snatches
in cut in cut, poor cutting performance
Remedy  Use filing aid Remedy  Find master cutter and file back all
cutters to same length
 Pay attention to uniform feed
pressure
Depth gauge setting insufficient

Different filing angles
Error Depth gauge setting not checked after

sharpening
Error File not held properly
Effects Poor cutting performance although
Effects Cut wanders
chain is sharp
Remedy  Use filing aid
Remedy  Lower depth gauges, using filing
 Pay attention to correct sharpening gauge that matches chain pitch
angle on all cutters
21
Depth gauge setting too wide Different depth gauge settings
Error Depth gauge setting too wide Error Different amounts of material removed
during filing
Effects Chain snatches in cut, increased risk of
kickback and chain breakage Effects Chain snatches in cut, chain wanders
Remedy  If possible, file back cutters, the saw Remedy  Find shortest depth gauge
chain must otherwise be replaced
 File back all cutters until they suit the
shortest depth gauge setting
 Correct all depth gauges
Machine sharpening
If the angles differ greatly from the specifications and are
very difficult or impossible to correct with a file, STIHL
recommends you have your chain sharpened by a STIHL
servicing dealer.
He has the necessary knowledge and sharpening

equipment to restore the saw chain to its original condition
and full sharpness.
After this general overhaul you will be able to resharpen

the chain relatively easily with a file.
22
Guide Bar Maintenance
Guide bar wear is highest in the area where most of the Checking groove depth
cutting is done. That is normally the underside of the bar.
On guide bars without a nose sprocket (Duromatic bars) it
is the bar nose area that is highly stressed. Before
mounting the guide bar and chain:
 Clean the oil inlet holes and the bar groove. The
groove cleaner on the filing gauge is suitable for this
purpose
 Check the groove depth
 Check the bar rails for burrs and deburr if necessary
 Turn the bar over to ensure it wears as evenly as

possible on both sides
Rollomatic guide bars with sprocket nose
{ Pro Tip  Use the scale (groove cleaner) on a filing gauge to

check the groove depth on the top and the bottom of
Experience has shown that it is best to use four saw the guide bar.
rotation. (4-2-1 principle) Duromatic guide bars (without sprocket nose)
 Use the scale (groove cleaner) on a filing gauge to

check the groove depth over its entire length.
If the measured depth is less than specified, replace the

Groove depth
guide bar.
As the rails wear the bar groove becomes shallower. A
minimum depth must be maintained in order to ensure
that the drive link tangs do not scrape along the bottom of Deburring bar rails
the groove.
If this happens, the drive link tangs wear very quickly and
the running faces of the cutters and tie straps will no
longer ride on the bar rails.
Chain pitch Minimum groove depth
1/4" P 4 mm
1/4" 4 mm
3/8" P 5 mm
.325" 6 mm
A burr forms on the outside edges of the bar rails as they
3/8" 6 mm wear.
.404" 7 mm
23
Checking nose sprocket of Rollomatic guide bar
This burr can be removed with a flat file or the STIHL

guide bar dressing tool.
Here must be a clearance (a) between the chain and bar
If the left and right bar rails have been worn unevenly due nose. If there is no clearance, i.e. chain locates against
to an incorrectly sharpened chain, they can be leveled the bar nose, it indicates that the nose sprocket teeth are
with the STIHL guide bar dressing tool providing the worn or the nose sprocket bearing is damaged.
difference is not too great.
Your STIHL servicing dealer will assess whether a repair
It is important that the required minimum groove depth is is worthwhile, carry it out if required or replace the guide
maintained after the rails have been leveled. bar.
If the guide bar has more serious damage, contact your
STIHL servicing dealer for assistance.
Several typical pictures of wear and damage are shown
He will assess whether a repair is worthwhile, carry it out below together with their effects and remedies:
if required or replace the guide bar.
Wear on guide bar

A saw chain that has been too loosely tensioned over a
prolonged period has particularly negative effects on the
condition of the guide bar.
If these effects are identified in good time, measures can

be taken to counteract the high rate of wear.
For this reason the guide bar should be checked at regular

intervals for signs of abnormal wear.
24
Worn guide bar rails Battered guide bar rails
Left: Bar rails battered at top in entry area and at bottom behind
Evenly worn bar rails, minimum depth has been reached, nose; underside of bar rippled.
normal wear – replace the whole cutting attachment.
Error Chain tensioned too loosely for
Right: extended period
Unevenly worn bar rails.
Effects Chain runs roughly. Using a guide bar
Error Unevenly worn bar rails due to in this state will cause it and the chain
incorrectly sharpened chain to wear very quickly.
Effects Chain tips to one side and does not cut Remedy  Level the bar rails
straight
If damage is too advanced, install a new
Remedy  Level the bar rails and sharpen the cutting attachment (chain sprocket, guide
chain properly bar, chain). If only one of these parts is
replaced, it will be quickly worn again by
If minimum groove depth cannot be the other defective parts.
maintained, replace the cutting
attachment.
25
Pinched or splayed guide bar rails Guide bar rails chipped
Error Force has been used, e.g. guide bar Error Burr on guide bar not removed soon
pinched in cut enough
Effects Chain wobbles or is jammed Effects Chain runs roughly and wears rapidly
Remedy Your STIHL servicing dealer will Remedy  Level bar rails if minimum bar groove
assess whether the guide bar can be depth can be maintained
repaired or has to be replaced
 If bar wear is too advanced, have rails
leveled by STIHL servicing dealer
 Replace the guide bar if necessary
 Always remove burrs in good time
STIHL recommends you contact your STIHL servicing

dealer if one of the conditions described occurs in more
serious form and cannot be rectified easily. He will assess
whether a repair is worthwhile, carry it out if required or
replace the cutting attachment.
26
Checking the Chain Sprocket
The chain sprocket is also subject to normal wear. A Sprocket wear is accelerated by running a too loosely
seriously worn chain sprocket also causes the chain and tensioned chain. Therefore, correct chain tension should
the guide bar to wear at an increased rate. For this reason be checked regularly.
the chain sprocket should also be checked at regular
intervals.
Checking sprocket wear

{ Pro Tip
The chain sprocket must be replaced if the depth of the
Experience has shown that it is best to use four saw
wear marks reaches about 0.5 mm, i.e. the wear limit.
This is best checked with the STIHL reference gauge. rotation. (4-2-1 principle)
Spur sprocket
{ Pro Tip
Since a worn component of the cutting attachment
causes increased wear on the other components it is
advisable to use two chains in rotation with one
sprocket. The two chains generally wear at the same
rate along with the chain sprocket and both
components (chains and sprocket) can then be
replaced at the same time.
Rim sprocket
 Hold the reference gauge on the chain sprocket. The

sprocket must be replaced if the wear marks are the
same depth (a = 0.5mm) or deeper than the gauge
lugs.
27
Determining the Correct Cutting Attachment
If you need a new cutting attachment or want to equip your The following characteristics define a saw chain:
chainsaw with a different cutting attachment, the following
information will help you select the correct cutting
attachment.
1 Chain pitch assigns the saw chain to particular
The chainsaw instruction manual lists the cutting chainsaw models (power classes)
attachments that are suitable for your specific STIHL saw
model. 2 Drive link gauge assigns the saw chain to guide
bars with a certain groove width
The following parameters are used to determine the
existing saw chain, guide or chain sprocket. 3, 4 Cutter shape
5 The length of the saw chain is determined by

Characteristics of saw chain the length of the guide bar and is quoted as the
number of drive links
1
Chain pitch
You have already got to know the chain pitch while
selecting the right sharpening file. Here is the complete
2 explanation of the term:
The dimensions of the individual chain links are related to

one another. The size of the cutters and the other chain
links are determined by the chain pitch.
3 Micro Super Duro
4 Rapid Picco Rapid/Picco
5
The chain pitch is quoted in inches. A digit is stamped on
1 2 3 4 5 6 ... 54 55 56 57 58 59 each cutter in the area of the depth gauge.
See the table in chapter b "Selecting the file"
28
Digit Drive link gauge
1 1.1 mm
3 1.3 mm
5 1.5 mm
6 1.6 mm
The pitch is determined by measuring the distance (a)

from the center of one rivet to the center of the next but
one and dividing the measurement by two. The result is
the pitch in inches or millimeters.
(e.g. 3/8” = 9.32 mm)

It is necessary to measure across three rivets because the
rivet center distances may be different on drive links and
cutters or tie straps.
Drive link gauge

The drive link gauge is the measurement which allocates
the saw chain to particular guide bars (groove width). It
must match the groove width of the guide bar so that the
chain fits the bar exactly. The drive link gauge is quoted in
millimeters.
The last digit (arrow) of this measurement is stamped on

every drive link.
29
Cutter shape Super full chisel chain:
The cutter profile is viewed from behind the cutter, looking

along the bar in the direction of the bar nose.
Basic types:
Razor-edged, square shaped cutters. Combines excellent

cutting capacity and convenience. Meets highest
performance requirements of professional users in
logging. Resharpening requires more experience.
Conventional chipper-tooth chains with a standard height Duro carbide-tipped chain:
cutter are referred to as Oilomatic "Rapid".
Chipper-tooth chains with a low-profile cutter are called

Oilomatic "Picco".
The basic types are subdivided into the following

versions:
Micro semi-chisel chain:
Cutters with carbide tipping. The Duro chain combines

exceptional service life, convenience and good cutting
performance. It is not affected by dirty wood or brief
contact with the ground. Remains sharp up to four times
longer than a standard semi-chisel chain. Carbide-tipped
chains cannot be sharpened manually. They must be
resharpened by the STIHL dealer with a specially shaped
diamond grinding wheel.
Straight-sided cutter. Robust universal chain that
combines high cutting capacity, convenience, long edge
life and simple maintenance. Meets the demands of users
in agriculture and construction industry but also suitable Length
for occasional users. Easy to maintain and resharpen. The length of the chain is expressed as the number of
drive links.
30
Characteristics of guide bar Nose sprocket
The four following characteristics define a guide bar:
Groove width
A continuous groove is machined in the periphery of the

bar. The tangs of the drive links extend into the groove to
keep the chain running in a straight line. The bar groove
also serves as a supply channel for chain and bar
lubricant. The chain rides on the rails on either side of the
groove.
The pitch of the nose sprocket assigns Rollomatic guide

bars to certain saw chain and chain sprocket pitches. The
pitch of all three components must be the same.
Bar tail
The groove width must match the drive link gauge of the
chain being used.
Cutting length
The tail of the bar is defined by the position of the slot (1)
for the mounting studs, the position of the oil inlet holes (3)
and the fixing holes (2) for the chain tensioner.
Characteristics of chain sprocket

The chain sprocket is defined by the number of teeth and
the chain pitch. Both numbers are stamped on the chain
sprocket.
The length of the bar (a) determines the area of It is again important to ensure that the saw chain, guide
application (e.g. log diameter). bar and chain sprocket have the same pitch.
31
Service data Determining data
STIHL offers a reference gauge for simply determining all

the data of the guide bar, chain sprocket and saw chain.
Top: Previous service data block

Bottom: New service data block
All the afore-mentioned characteristics, except the cutter

profile and number of chain sprocket teeth, can be taken
from the service data block on the tail of every STIHL
guide bar. They are etched by laser in the following order.
1 Part number
2 Cutting length
3 Groove width / drive link gauge
4 Number of drive links
5 Chain pitch (Rollomatic bars only)
32
Check List

Taking Care of Cutting Attachment for Machine:
Part Operation Date Date
Ο Clean saw chain and inspect for damage
Ο Find and mark master cutter
Ο Tension saw chain slightly tighter
Ο Select and use filing aid and file diameter that match chain pitch
Ο Pay attention to same cutter length – (count number of file strokes)
Ο Rotate the file a little at regular intervals while filing to avoid one-sided wear
Saw Chain
Ο Check depth gauge setting and lower if necessary – use filing gauge that matches
chain pitch
Ο Remove and clean saw chain after sharpening – remove filings
Ο Lubricate chain thoroughly
Ο Carry out maintenance work on guide bar
Ο Mount guide bar and saw chain
Ο Tension the saw chain
Ο Check chain lubrication
Ο Clean oil inlet hole – use filing gauge
Ο Clean bar groove – use filing gauge
Ο Measure groove depth with scale on filing gauge
Ο Observe minimum groove depth for chain pitch

Guide Bar
Ο Examine guide bar for cracks and other damage
Ο Check bar rails and deburr if necessary
Ο Check nose sprocket rotates freely and check clearance between chain and bar
nose as described
Ο Turn guide bar over – every time chain is sharpened and changed
Ο Check depth of wear marks (check gauge, special accessory) – replace chain
Chain Sprocket
sprocket if wear marks are deeper than 0.5 mm
33
© ANDREAS STIHL AG & Co. KG, 2012

0457 181 0121. VA3.M12. Printed in Germany
Printed on chlorine-free paper

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What are the main components of a chainsaw cutting attachment?

What are the main components of a chainsaw cutting attachment?

What are the characteristics of a STIHL guide bar?

What are the characteristics of a STIHL guide bar?

0457-181-0121_02.book Seite -1 Donnerstag, 13.

Dezember 2012 11:50 11

Sharpening STIHL Saw Chains 2012-10

STIHL offers every user, from occasional to professional,

Checking the Chain Sprocket ...........................................27

Determining the Correct Cutting Attachment .................28

Check List .............................................................................33

STIHL Advanced Technology

STIHL saw chains are This pre-stretching process

STIHL Advanced Technology

Guide Bars Oilomatic System of Lubrication

Induction hardening makes the bar rails more resilient and

 Nose sprocket with encapsulated roller bearing

The standard encapsulated bearing prevents the ingress

Construction of a Saw Chain

Low kickback saw chains have a humped drive link (5)

Construction of a Saw Chain

Side and top plate cutting edges are at a given angle in

The depth gauge setting determines the height at which

The difference in height between the top of the depth

Construction of a Saw Chain

Filing angle Service and wear markings

ALTES 084 als Kette

Top plate cutting angle

Marking for correct filing angle of top plate cutting edge

2) Side plate angle:

4) Toe and heel wear:

Reference marking for wear on bottom of cutter (running

To ensure the chain runs evenly and smoothly, all cutters

Preparing the Saw Chain

An exception to this rule are STIHL carbide-tipped chains

All other saw chains can be resharpened relatively easily

When does the chain need sharpening?

 When bucking, fine sawdust is pulled from the cut

 If the wear marks have been reached, install a new

 In such a case you should contact your STIHL

Preparing the Saw Chain

Master cutter in right hand row

Master cutter in left hand row

 Disengage the chain brake to pull the saw chain along

 Clamp the guide bar in a vise to suit the position of the

Principles – Sharpening Saw Chain

Selecting the file Holding the file

Use only special saw chain sharpening files. Your STIHL

1 1/4 1/4" 4.0 mm

 Rotate the file a little at regular intervals while filing to

Principles – Sharpening Saw Chain

STIHL saw chains are generally filed to an angle of 30° –

If the surface looks uniform, your filing action is correct.

 Hold the file so that one quarter of its diameter projects

Principles – Sharpening Saw Chain

Checking the result: Lowering depth gauges

After sharpening the cutters, check the depth gauge

The cutting edge is properly sharpened when it is

1/4 P 6.35 0.45 0.018