exceptions. Ripping chains have an X in the des‐
ignation.
B Side plate angle
The correct side plate angle results automatically
when the specified file holder and file diameter
are used.
Tooth shapes
Angle (°)
A
B
Micro = semi-chisel tooth, e. g.,
63 PM3, 26 RM3, 36 RM
30
75
Super = full chisel tooth, e. g.,
63 PS3, 26 RS, 36 RS3
30
60
Ripping chain, e. g., 63 PMX,
36 RMX
10
75
The angles must be identical for all cutters in the
saw chain. Varying angles: Rough, uneven run‐
ning of the saw chain, increased wear – even to
the point of saw chain breakage.
23.4
File holder
689BA025 KN
► Use a file holder
Always use a file holder (special accessory, see
table "Sharpening tools") when sharpening saw
chains by hand. File holders have markings for
the sharpening angle.
Use only special saw chain files! Other files are
unsuitable in terms of shape and type of cutting.
23.5
To check the angles
001BA203 KN
STIHL filing gauge (special accessory, see table
"Sharpening tools") – a universal tool for check‐
ing sharpening and side plate angles, depth
gauge setting, and tooth length, as well as clean‐
ing grooves and oil inlet holes.
23.6
Proper sharpening
► Select sharpening tools in accordance with
chain pitch
► Clamp guide bar if necessary
► Block saw chain – push the hand guard for‐
ward
► To advance the saw chain, pull the hand
guard toward the handlebar: The chain brake
is disengaged. With the Quickstop Super
chain brake system, additionally press the
throttle trigger lockout
► Sharpen frequently, removing little material –
two or three strokes of the file are usually suffi‐
cient for simple resharpening
689BA018 KN
90°
689BA043 KN
► Guide the file: horizontally (at a right angle to
the side surface of the guide bar) in accord‐
ance with the specified angle – according to
the markings on the file holder – rest the file
holder on the tooth head and the depth gauge
► File only from the inside outward
► The file only sharpens on the forward stroke –
lift the file on the backstroke
► Do not file tie straps and drive links
► Rotate the file a little periodically in order to
avoid uneven wear
► To remove file burr, use a piece of hardwood
► Check angle with file gauge
All cutters must be equally long.
English
23 Maintaining and Sharpening the Saw Chain
30
0458-506-0121-C