How to Replace a STIHL Chainsaw Chain
Properly replacing the chain on your chainsaw is a task you'll need to perform regularly to maintain optimal performance. This guide covers safe removal, fitting the new chain, tensioning and testing, so your saw is ready for action.
Safety Before You Start
Before removing or fitting a chain, always ensure the saw cannot start unexpectedly.
- Cordless: remove the battery and apply the chain brake.
- Electric: unplug from the socket and apply the chain brake.
- Petrol: switch off the engine, set the combi-lever to "0" and apply the chain brake.
- Wear gloves made of robust material and eye protection, and work on a stable surface.
- Ensure you have the correct replacement chain and bar combination for your machine.
Fitting the New Chain
The procedure for fitting the cutting attachment is similar across electric, cordless and petrol models — the key difference is the tensioning device type (quick nut, side tensioner or front tensioner).
- Release the chain brake, then remove the chain sprocket cover (wing-nut or bolts, depending on model).
- Remove the old chain and guide bar. Inspect the bar, sprocket and groove for wear or damage.
- Install the new chain, ensuring the drive links locate into the sprocket and the cutters' arrows point in the correct direction of rotation.
- Replace the guide bar and ensure the pins line up; reinstall the sprocket cover but don't fully tighten yet.
Ensure drive links engage the sprocket and cutters are oriented correctly.
Tensioning & Final Checks
Correct chain tension is essential for safe and efficient operation. After replacing the chain, adjust tension while the bar tip is lifted slightly so the chain sags minimally, then tighten the cover fully.
- With the tip lifted, turn the adjustment screw or wheel until slack is removed; drive links should just move freely.
- Tighten the sprocket cover wing-nut or bolts securely.
- Check the chain oil reservoir is filled, oil holes and bar groove are clear, and run the saw at idle to verify smooth movement before cutting.
Maintenance After Chain Replacement
Once your chain is replaced and tensioned correctly, it's a great time to perform maintenance checks. Wear protective gloves, clean the bar groove and oil channels, check sprocket wear, and monitor chain condition throughout use.
- Inspect the sprocket for wear marks (replace if wear exceeds 0.5mm).
- Clean the bar groove and oil holes; ensure lubrication flows freely.
- After initial use with the new chain, re-check tension and bar alignment.
Checking sprocket wear and lubrication ensures long chain life.
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View ProductWhen should I replace my STIHL chainsaw chain?
You should replace the chain when it shows wear markers on the cutters, is damaged, or performance declines. A worn chain can also indicate the sprocket or guide bar needs checking.
How do I ensure the replacement chain is fitted correctly?
Make sure the saw is powered off and the chain brake is applied. Remove the sprocket cover, align the drive links with the sprocket, ensure the arrows on the chain point in the correct rotation direction, replace the bar and cover, then tension the chain before use.
What is the correct chain tension after fitting?
With the bar tip lifted slightly, turn the tensioning screw or wheel so the chain sits close to the underside of the bar but still moves freely. Then fully tighten the sprocket cover.
Do I need to replace other parts when changing the chain?
Yes — you should inspect the sprocket and guide bar for wear. If wear markers are reached, the sprocket or bar should be replaced to avoid accelerated wear of the new chain.