How to Tighten a Chainsaw Chain

When to Tighten Your Chain

If you can see that the saw chain no longer fits to the bottom of the guide bar, you need to tighten it — a correctly tensioned saw chain fits snugly to the underside of the bar but can still be easily moved around by hand when the chain brake is released. For STIHL chainsaws with QuickStop Super, press the brake lever on the lower handle to release the chain brake. Chains heat up during normal operation and expand; you should also tighten the saw chain if it has more play after warming up.

If you tighten the chain at operating temperature, remember to loosen it again once it has cooled down. Too high tension can put extra strain on parts of the chainsaw, causing damage. Always check chain tension before using your chainsaw.

Safety first:

• Never check or tighten the chain with the engine running.
• Wear suitable protective gloves.
• You can burn yourself on hot engine or muffler parts.
• For cordless/electric models, ensure it cannot turn on (remove battery, disconnect plug).
• Check the chain for wear or damage; do not use a damaged chain.
• Read the operating instructions, or contact Gustharts for advice.

STIHL Quick Chain Tensioner

STIHL chainsaws with a quick chain tensioner make it fast and convenient to tighten the saw chain. Models with a "B" in the name feature this, e.g. the MSA 60 C-B Cordless Chainsaw 12".

1. Switch off the tool (remove battery or disconnect plug if applicable).
2. Release the chain brake.
3. Loosen the wingnut.
4. Lift up the guide bar tip.
5. Turn the adjustment wheel until the chain is correctly tensioned.
6. Tighten the wingnut.
7. Let go of the guide bar tip.
8. Check chain tension; it should move easily and fit snugly at the bottom of the bar.

Side Chain Tensioner

The side chain tensioner provides convenient access to the tensioning screw and reduces risk of contact with hot engine parts. For models with QuickStop Super, press the QuickStop lever on the rear handle when moving the chain.

1. Switch off the tool, remove battery or disconnect plug.
2. Release the chain brake.
3. Loosen the fixing nut(s) 1–2 turns using the KombiTool.
4. Lift the guide bar tip during the next steps.
5. Tighten the chain with the tensioning screw clockwise until correct tension is achieved.
6. Distribute the chain tension evenly by pulling/pushing the chain around the bar.
7. Tighten the fixing nut(s) fully, then let go of the guide bar.
8. Check tension; it should move easily and fit snugly, lifting no more than 5mm in the middle.

Front Chain Tensioner

Only a few STIHL chainsaws have a front chain tensioner. It works like the side tensioner, just in a different position.

1. Switch off the tool, remove battery or disconnect plug.
2. Release the chain brake.
3. Loosen the fixing nut(s) 1–2 turns with the KombiTool.
4. Lift the guide bar tip during the next steps.
5. Tighten with the tensioning screw clockwise until correct tension.
6. Distribute tension evenly by moving the chain around, then tighten the fixing nut(s) fully.
7. Let go of the guide bar and check tension — it should lift no more than 5mm in the middle.

Operating Instructions

Download the operating instructions for your STIHL chainsaw at your convenience.