The Stihl MS170 is a staple in the world of residential property maintenance, prized for its ability to handle pruning, firewood cutting, and light felling with ease. However, the performance of this compact saw is entirely dependent on the condition and quality of the chain it carries. A chainsaw chain is a precision cutting tool that operates under extreme tension and high speeds, meaning that even small issues with sharpness, sizing, or structural integrity can have a massive impact on both efficiency and safety. This guide is designed to help MS170 owners navigate the complexities of chain ownership, from understanding technical measurements to identifying when a chain has become a liability. By utilizing high quality components from trusted brands like Stens and Trilink, you can ensure your Stihl remains a reliable partner for all your outdoor projects.
Understanding the Technical Foundation of Your Chain
One of the most common points of confusion for chainsaw owners is the specialized language used to describe chain measurements. Because the Stihl MS170 is a light duty saw, it requires a specific type of chain that balances weight with cutting ability. The three pillars of chain sizing are pitch, gauge, and drive link count. Pitch refers to the distance between the rivets and determines if the chain will physically mesh with your drive sprocket. For the MS170, this is almost always a 3/8 inch Low Profile design. Gauge refers to the thickness of the drive links that slide into the guide bar, while the drive link count determines the total length of the loop.
Using a chain that does not perfectly match these three specifications can lead to catastrophic equipment failure. A chain with the wrong gauge will either be too tight to move or so loose that it wobbles, leading to crooked cuts and accelerated wear on the bar rails. To gain a complete understanding of how these measurements work together and how to find them on your specific equipment, read our Stihl MS170 Chainsaw Chain Size Guide: Pitch, Gauge, and Drive Links Explained. Mastering these numbers is the first step in ensuring your saw is equipped for success.
Identifying the Causes of Premature Dulling
A common frustration for MS170 users is a chain that seems to lose its edge after only a short period of use. While some dulling is a natural part of cutting wood, rapid dulling is often a sign of environmental factors or improper lubrication. When a chain becomes dull, it forces the engine to work harder and the operator to apply more pressure, which creates a cycle of heat that further damages the steel. Factors such as cutting "dirty" wood, allowing the bar tip to touch the soil, or a failing oiler system can turn a sharp chain into a blunt one in a matter of minutes.
Recognizing the difference between a chain that needs a simple touch up and one that is failing due to heat or abrasion is vital for maintaining your saw’s productivity. High performance replacement chains from brands like Trilink are engineered with harder chrome coatings to resist this type of wear, but even the best steel requires proper care. Learn more about the most common causes of chain wear and how to extend chain life in Why Chainsaw Chains Dull Quickly on a Stihl MS170 (And When It's Time for a Replacement).
Prioritizing Safety Through Rigorous Inspection
Beyond performance, the most critical aspect of chainsaw maintenance is safety. The MS170 is a powerful tool, and the chain is the part that poses the most significant risk to the operator. Over time, the physical stress of cutting can cause metal fatigue, leading to cracked tie straps or loose rivets. Furthermore, improper sharpening can leave the cutters uneven, causing the saw to pull or kick back unpredictably. A "heat stretched" chain, caused by a lack of lubrication, can become a permanent hazard as it loses its ability to stay tensioned on the bar.
Knowing when a chain has moved past the point of repair is a life saving skill. If a chain shows signs of structural damage or if the cutters have been filed down to their safety limit, it must be replaced immediately. Learn the critical warning signs by reading How to Tell When the Chain on Your Stihl MS170 Is Unsafe to Use. Replacing a worn chain with a low kickback option from Stens or Trilink is a small investment that significantly reduces the risk of accidents during your work.
Selecting the Right Replacement for Your Needs
When the time comes to replace the chain on your Stihl MS170, you have the opportunity to choose a part that matches your specific cutting style. Aftermarket leaders like Stens and Trilink offer specialized designs, such as narrow kerf chains that help smaller engines cut more efficiently, or safety chains with built in bumpers to dampen vibration and reduce kickback. These brands provide professional grade engineering that fits perfectly within the Stihl ecosystem, allowing homeowners to achieve high level results without the premium price tag of original manufacturer parts. By choosing the right replacement and following a consistent maintenance schedule, you ensure that your MS170 continues to deliver the precision and power you expect.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use any brand of chain on my Stihl MS170?
Yes, as long as the pitch, gauge, and drive link count match your bar and sprocket exactly. High quality aftermarket brands like Stens and Trilink are specifically designed to be compatible with Stihl equipment and often offer comparable or superior durability.
Why does my chain get loose after only a few cuts?
New chains will naturally stretch slightly during their first few minutes of use as the rivets seat themselves. However, if an older chain is constantly getting loose, it is usually a sign of poor lubrication or "heat stretching" from excessive friction.
Is a 16 inch bar too big for the Stihl MS170?
While a 16 inch bar can fit, it is often at the upper limit of what the MS170’s engine and oiler can handle. A 12 or 14 inch bar is usually the sweet spot for this saw, providing the best balance of power and maneuverability.
What are the "rakers" on a chainsaw chain?
Rakers are the depth gauges located in front of each cutter. They determine how deep the tooth bites into the wood. If they are too high, the saw won't cut, but if they are too low, the saw becomes aggressive and prone to dangerous kickback.
How do I know if my bar is worn out?
Inspect the rails of the bar for uneven wear or mushrooming where the metal spreads out. If the groove has become too wide, the chain will tilt to the side, causing crooked cuts and making it easier for the chain to jump off.
Your Source for Stihl MS170 Excellence
Maintaining your Stihl MS170 is a journey of understanding how each part of the cutting system works together. By staying informed about the technical specs of your chain, recognizing the early signs of dulling, and never compromising on safety, you can keep your equipment in top form for years to come. Whether you are a weekend warrior or a dedicated property owner, having the right information and the best parts is the key to a successful day in the yard.
For a wide selection of Trilink and Stens chains that are a perfect fit for your Stihl MS170, visit the experts at Xtreme OPE.