9
Instructions:
File your chain
frequently, yet take away
as little material as
possible each time. If the
chain is damaged, file
back beyond the
damaged area.
Sharpening cutters.
Start by finding the cutter with the
shortest top length (the “master cutter”). Sharpen it to
the correct angle and then file all the other cutters to
match its length. (Use a caliper to measure the cutters.)
File all the cutters on one side of the chain first, then
file the cutters facing the opposite direction.
When filing the cutter, be sure to use a round file and
always direct it from the inside to the outside of the
cutter. (That is, sharpen only on the forward stroke – lift
the file off during the backward stroke.)
Looking toward the end of
the bar
Looking at the top of the bar
Push File
Push File
8
Breaking In Saw Chain
Even though STIHL OILOMATIC
®
saw chain is pre-
stretched at the factory, new saw chain needs a first run
just to “break in.” The break-in smooths out tiny
irregularities on the friction faces and allows the chain to
properly “seat” the rivets. The tension should be
readjusted just before the chain actually goes to work.
Run the saw at low speed for approximately three
minutes. If your automatic oiler is adjustable, initially
increase the flow for a short time.
Sharpening Saw Chain
Trying to cut wood with a dull chain means a loss of
power and cutting speed, higher fuel consumption, an
excessive rate of wear on the guide bar, the sprocket,
and the engine, and fatigue for the operator.
A properly sharpened chain will “feed” itself into a
cut when only slight pressure is applied. If a chain has to
be forced into a cut by bearing down on the saw, the
cutters either are too dull or have been damaged. Dull
chain is also evident when only fine sawdust is pulled
from the cut, rather than chips of wood.
Make sure your chain is always correctly tensioned if
you sharpen it on the saw. It is difficult to accurately file a
loose chain.
Use only the correct file size, guide, and file gauges
recommended for specific types of chain. See the chart
in the back of this booklet.
Always file to the correct angles recommended for
specific types of chain.
Have your chain resharpened by a servicing dealer
after sharpening it about five times yourself.
Even
with the correct hand tools, you run the risk of filing
incorrect angles. A dealer has the equipment to precisely
file chain, and a professional sharpening will make the
chain last longer.
STIHL Sharp Advice rdsp 110606 11/6/06 4:16 PM Page 11
