Stihl Chain Saw Troubleshooting Guide

Check the fluids on the saw every time you fill the fuel tank. This means the oil and the chain lubrication. For the latter, run the engine at half throttle and watch for a trace of oil from the bar nose; it may help to use a light colored background such as a freshly cut tree stump.

Examine the oil inlet holes and bar groove to make sure there is no dirt or dust in them.

Tighten the chain. Put on work gloves to protect your hands and loosen the bar mounting nuts so the nose can move up and down slightly. Hold the nose up with one hand, turn the chain adjusting screw until you can move the chain easily by hand.

Sharpen the chain. It's easier if you've properly tightened the chain and if you use the manufacturer's recommended file for your chainsaw model. It's important to follow directions on the file to get the right angle as you push the file against each tooth of the chain.

Check the depth gauge when you sharpen the cutters. The manufacturer makes a depth gauge tool to measure this height.

Look at the guide bars to see if they are splayed (spread apart) or pinched together. If they are, it's important to replace these to extend the life of the bar.

Replace the drive sprocket if the wear is more than .02 inches or the second time you've replaced the chain.