With STIHL pole saws, you can conveniently trim hard-to-reach branches while standing on the floor. However, STIHL pole saws can develop problems during usage. One common problem is that the chain stops when cutting.
STIHL Pole Saw chain stops when cutting for several reasons – problems with the chain, a worn or damaged sprocket, a damaged guide bar, and an inadequately tensioned chain. Replace damaged parts to restore the saw chain to normal function.
This article will explain the above reasons in greater detail and show you how to fix them. Read on!
1. The Saw Chain is Malfunctioning
The pole saw chain is usually the first culprit when it malfunctions when cutting. Several things could happen to the pole saw chain:
- The chain is damaged.
- The chain is stuck in the guide bar.
- The chain isn’t rotating.
These problems will affect the effectiveness of the pole saw: it may cut weakly due to the slow movement of the chain or may not cut at all.
How To Fix
Damaged chains need replacement. However, if the chain is in good condition but not rotating because it’s stuck in the guide bar, you need to loosen the area and unhook it.
Here’s how to change the saw chain (source).
- Unscrew the bolts on the chainsaw to access the clutch cover.
- Remove the old chain.
- Install the new chain in the correct direction. STIHL chains usually have an arrow showing the correct placement.
- Ensure proper tension in the chain while fixing.
- Replace the cover and screw the bolts into place.
Note: When you open the chain, clean any dirt and debris and remove old oil in the groove bar, clutch cover, and sprocket. This will help the easy spread of lubrication on the new chain.
Refer to this YouTube video for an illustration of how to replace chains:
2. Worn or Damaged Sprocket
A worn or damaged sprocket also causes the chain to stop while cutting. The sprocket works with the clutch and the crankshaft and has metal teeth. As the crankshaft spins, it causes the chain to rotate (source).
This turning keeps the chain moving, enabling the saw chain to keep cutting. The sprocket is prone to wear and tear and would lose grip afterward.
How To Fix
A worn or damaged sprocket needs replacement. It’s unsafe to use a pole saw chain with a bad sprocket. It can lead to accidents. A bad sprocket may also affect and damage other components in the pole saw chain.
So it’s advisable to change the part even before it becomes a problem. The general recommendation is to change the sprocket after every two chains or if the degree of wear exceeds 0.5 mm (0.02 in).
Changing the sprocket is not a difficult task. Follow the instructions in this video to change your sprocket:
However, if you still find the process tricky, seek professional help.
3. The Guide Bar Is Damaged
If the guide bar is damaged, your STIHL Pole Saw chain will also stop while cutting. As the name implies, the guide bar guides the chain’s rotation. The chain must rotate properly for the pole saw chain to cut effectively.
It’s also important to avoid damage to the pole saw chain. If the chain doesn’t rotate in a straight line, it will damage other parts. So, any damage to the guide bar will affect the chain’s rotation, function, and, ultimately, the pole saw chain.
How To Fix
Check the guide bar for any damage. Damaged guide bars should be replaced. The following signs necessitate guide bar replacement (source):
- Physical dent or damage
- Chain wobbling
- Tilted blade edges
These signs are non-negotiable. When you notice them, replace the guide bar immediately. Continued usage may be unsafe for you.
4. Inadequately Tensioned Chain
Sometimes, the reason why your saw chain stops while cutting may not be related to any damage. It may simply be due to an inadequately tensioned chain. Chain tensioning that’s either too tight or too loose will affect your machine’s performance (source).
When not in use, the chain will be cool, fitting nicely on the guide bar. However, the chain heats up while you’re using it, and this can loosen the tension a bit and make it come off while you’re cutting.
On the other hand, the tightly tensioned chain may even prevent the chainsaw from turning in the first place. Both scenarios are not ideal for your machine. Apart from the potential damage they may cause to parts like the crankshaft, they’re a safety hazard.
How To Fix
Since temperature changes affect the chain tensioning, you’d have to monitor the chain periodically while in use.
Don’t use your chain for a long period without stopping. Pausing helps the temperature to cool. Also, check the chain tension at regular 30 minutes intervals and adjust where necessary.
How To Care for Your STIHL Saw Chain
It’s easier and cheaper to prevent damage than to fix or replace damaged parts. Proper maintenance helps prevent damage and keeps your guide bar, and STIHL pole saw chain in good condition.
Here’s how to care for your saw chain and keep it useful for much longer.
- Regular checks: Regular checks will reveal anomalies that you may correct easily before it causes any damage. This way, you avoid problems with your pole saw chain. Check every part – the guide bar, clutch, and sprocket.
- Lubrication: Check and lubricate the chain from time to time to keep it useful and effective for a long time (source).
Here’s how to maintain your guide bar (source):
- Periodically check and clean any dirt or debris from the guide bar groove.
- Clean the oil lubrication hole.
- Check the guide bar for wear and tear regularly. Replace when necessary. Sometimes, you can turn to the other side if wear is only on one side of the tip.
Conclusion
Your STIHL pole saw chain allows you to trim difficult areas conveniently. However, it can malfunction; instead of cutting, the chain could stop.
Such problems are related to worn or damaged parts of the STIHL, such as the chain, sprocket, and guide bar. You may need to replace broken parts depending on the level of damage. However, if the chain tensioning is too tight or loose, you should adjust accordingly.
