Comparison of Stihl 026 & 025 Chain Saws

Engine Specs

• The 025 engine has a bore of 42 millimeters and a stroke of 32mm with a total engine displacement of 2.77 cubic centimeters. The 026 has a slightly larger engine with a bore of 44mm, a stroke of 32mm and a displacement of 48.7cc. The stroke of the engine determines the distance that the cylinder travels while the bore determines its size. Engine displacement is a measurement of the area the cylinder occupies and is used as a general indicator of engine power. The motors of both saws are two-stroke engines using a single cylinder.

Fuel System

• The 025 and 026 use similar types of fuel and ignition systems. These saws use a carburetor and integrated fuel pump to supply the engine with fuel and engine oil. The 025 fuel tank carries 0.47 liters of fuel while the 026 carries 0.46 liters of fuel. The 025 and 026 use an electro-magneto ignition system. Both saws use the same type and size of spark plug with identical screw threads, making the spark plug for these saws interchangeable.

Cutting Attachments

• The Stihl 025 is compatible with several sizes of bar including 12-, 14-, 16- and 18-inch bars. The 026 supports larger bars measuring 16, 18 or 20 inches in length. Both saws are compatible with a variety of chains using a 0.325 or 3/8 inch pitch. The pitch of the chain is half the distance between three consecutive rivets of the chain. The length of the chain and its pitch determine the compatibility of different chains and bars.

Safety Equipment

• These saws include a number of standard safety features including hand guards, a chain brake, chain catcher and anti-vibration system. The hand guards are physical barriers designed to protect your hands from flying debris and ensure a firm grip on the saw during operation. The chain brake is a lever located in front of the forward hand grip that is designed to quickly stop the chain if the saw bucks up towards you. The chain catcher is intended to prevent injury if the chain breaks while the saw is running while the anti-vibration system is designed to decrease fatigue caused by running the saw.