Understanding STIHL Guide Bars
STIHL guide bars are essential components of chainsaws, responsible for guiding the chain and ensuring precise cuts. They are designed for durability and minimal friction loss, translating engine power into cutting performance. STIHL offers a range of bars for diverse applications.
Types of STIHL Guide Bars
STIHL guide bars come in various types, each tailored to specific cutting needs. The ROLLOMATIC E Super is a solid, high-grade steel bar with a replaceable sprocket nose, ideal for limbing and boring. The ROLLOMATIC E Standard, a laminated bar with a star-shaped sprocket, offers robust performance, with the sprocket securely protected against dirt. Light 04 guide bars, found on models like the MS 261 and MSA 300, are designed for reduced weight.
These bars are engineered for precise maneuvering and minimal friction. STIHL guide bars can be divided into three basic types, each being designed to be an all-rounder for professional products.
ROLLOMATIC E Super Guide Bar Features
The STIHL ROLLOMATIC E Super guide bar is a solid-machined bar crafted from high-grade steel. It features a milled groove and a replaceable sprocket nose assembly riveted securely in place. The integrated sprocket carries the saw chain, minimizing wear and allowing for a narrower bar nose. This design is particularly advantageous for tasks involving extensive use of the bar nose, such as limbing and boring. This heavy-duty STIHL guide bar is produced in a range of sizes, and is equipped with the STIHL Ematic lubrication system.
The sprocket in the replaceable sprocket nose assembly carries the saw chain from the top to the bottom of the bar.
ROLLOMATIC E Standard Guide Bar Details
The STIHL ROLLOMATIC E Standard guide bar is constructed as a three-part laminated bar, spot-welded together and made from high-grade steel. A star-shaped sprocket is concealed within the bar nose, offering protection against corrosive and abrasive dirt, contributing to its longevity. The guide bar is designed to guide the saw chain precisely. STIHL guide bars are designed to provide precise guidance to the chainsaw with minimal friction loss. STIHL guide bars dont need to be greased.
The sprocket is securely protected inside the bar nose.
STIHL Guide Bar Selection
Selecting the right STIHL guide bar involves considering factors like chainsaw model, application, and desired cutting performance. STIHL provides tools and resources, including selector tools and compatibility charts, to aid in choosing the appropriate bar.
Using a STIHL Guide Bar & Saw Chain Selector Tool
STIHL provides a convenient online tool to simplify the selection process for guide bars and saw chains. This interactive selector guides users through a series of questions to determine the optimal match for their needs. Based on your answers, a recommended guide bar or saw chain will appear, ensuring compatibility and performance.
The selector considers factors like chainsaw model and intended use, providing tailored recommendations. Users can easily start over at any time by selecting the “start over” button. For personalized assistance, consult your local STIHL dealer, who possesses extensive knowledge of products.
Key Parameters: Length, Gauge, and Pitch
Selecting the correct STIHL guide bar requires careful consideration of three key parameters: length, gauge, and pitch. The length of the guide bar, measured in inches, determines the maximum cutting diameter. The gauge, measured in millimeters, refers to the thickness of the drive links that fit into the guide bar groove.
The pitch, a combination of imperial and metric measurements, indicates the spacing between the chain’s drive links. Matching these parameters ensures proper chain engagement and optimal cutting performance. Consulting a STIHL guide bar chart or selector tool will help you find the precise specifications for your chainsaw.
STIHL Guide Bar Identification
Identifying your STIHL guide bar is crucial for replacement and maintenance. The part number, typically stamped on the bar, is the key. Alternatively, measure the mount slot width using calipers for identification.
Locating the Part Number on a STIHL Bar
The part number on a STIHL guide bar is essential for finding compatible replacements and understanding its specifications. Typically, this number is stamped directly onto the bar itself. Examine the bar’s surface closely, often near the mounting area that connects to the chainsaw powerhead. Look for a series of numbers and possibly letters, such as “3005 000 4817” as an example.
This alphanumeric code is unique to that specific guide bar model. Note down the entire sequence accurately, as it will be needed when consulting compatibility charts, ordering replacements, or seeking advice from a STIHL dealer. With the part number, you can easily access detailed information about the bar’s length, pitch, gauge, and the appropriate chain to use with it.
Measuring Mount Slot Width
If the part number is unreadable or missing, measuring the mount slot width becomes crucial for identifying a compatible STIHL guide bar. The mount slot is the area where the bar attaches to the chainsaw. Use a caliper for accurate measurements. Carefully measure the width of the slot in millimeters.
Once you have the measurement, compare it with a STIHL mount table. This table lists the mount slot widths for various STIHL chainsaw models. By matching your measurement to the corresponding width on the table, you can determine the correct mount size for your chainsaw. This ensures that the replacement bar will properly fit and function safely. Accurate measurement is critical to avoid purchasing an incompatible bar.
STIHL Guide Bar Maintenance and Features
STIHL guide bars require proper maintenance for optimal performance and longevity. Features like the Ematic lubrication system and reversible design enhance their functionality; Regular inspection and care are crucial for safe and efficient operation.
Ematic Lubrication System
The STIHL Ematic lubrication system is a key feature designed to optimize oil delivery to the chain and guide bar. This system reduces oil consumption by up to 50% by ensuring that the chain is properly lubricated, minimizing friction and wear. The system works by directing oil to the chain links as they pass around the sprocket nose.
This precise oil delivery not only extends the life of the chain and guide bar but also contributes to a cleaner and more efficient cutting experience. Regular use of the Ematic system helps maintain optimal cutting performance and reduces the environmental impact of chainsaw operation.
Reversible Guide Bar Feature
STIHL guide bars are designed with a symmetrical construction, allowing users to reverse them periodically. This reversible design is a practical feature that promotes even wear across the entire bar surface, extending its overall lifespan. By flipping the bar, users can prevent localized wear patterns from developing, ensuring that the bar wears evenly on both sides.
This simple yet effective feature maximizes the value and longevity of the guide bar, saving users money on replacements. Regular reversal of the bar is recommended as part of routine maintenance to maintain optimal performance and prolong the life of the chainsaw.
STIHL Guide Bar Sizes and Applications
STIHL guide bars come in a wide range of sizes, from 10 inches to 59 inches, catering to various cutting needs. Matching the correct bar length to the powerhead ensures optimal performance and safety for different applications.
Range of STIHL Guide Bar Lengths
STIHL guide bars are available in a wide range of lengths to accommodate various cutting tasks. These range from compact 10-inch bars, ideal for pruning and pole pruners, to substantial 59-inch bars designed for extreme felling operations. This extensive selection ensures that there is a STIHL guide bar suitable for virtually any chainsaw application.
The length of the guide bar is a critical factor in determining the saw’s cutting capacity and maneuverability. Shorter bars are generally preferred for limbing and carving, while longer bars are better suited for felling large trees.
STIHL manufactures over eighty bar configurations, ensuring a precise match for diverse cutting requirements. They use laser-cut, wear-resistant steel and feature the exclusive Ematic lubrication system.
Matching Bar Length to Powerhead
Selecting the correct bar length for your STIHL chainsaw’s powerhead is crucial for optimal performance and safety. STIHL recommends specific guide bar lengths for each powerhead model to ensure proper balance, cutting efficiency, and to prevent overloading the engine. Using a bar that is too long can strain the powerhead, leading to reduced performance and potential damage.
Consulting STIHL’s compatibility charts or your local STIHL dealer is highly recommended to determine the appropriate bar length for your chainsaw. These resources provide detailed information on recommended bar lengths based on the powerhead model and intended use.
Consider the type of cutting you’ll be doing most frequently. For limbing and pruning, a shorter bar is typically preferred, while felling larger trees requires a longer bar.
Compatibility Charts and Resources
STIHL provides various resources, including compatibility charts, to help users select the correct guide bar and saw chain for their chainsaw. These charts ensure optimal performance and safety during operation of chainsaw.
STIHL Chainsaw Chain & Bar Quick Reference Chart
STIHL’s Chainsaw Chain & Bar Quick Reference Chart serves as a valuable tool for users to easily identify the correct bar and chain for their specific STIHL chainsaw model. Because of the size and depth of this quick guide, there is a quick selection section where you can click on your model and the page will quick jump you to the corresponding section of the quick guide. This chart simplifies the selection process. It ensures that users choose compatible components, optimizing chainsaw performance and safety.
The chart typically includes information such as bar length, chain pitch, gauge, and the number of drive links. It’s an essential resource for both professionals and homeowners looking to maintain or upgrade their STIHL chainsaw setup.
Online Resources and Dealer Assistance
STIHL provides a wealth of online resources to aid in selecting the correct guide bar and chain. Their website often features a STIHL Guide Bar & Saw Chain Selector tool, which narrows down choices based on user inputs. These tools ask several questions and provide recommendations based on your answers.
For personalized assistance, consulting a local STIHL dealer is highly recommended. Dealers possess in-depth knowledge of STIHL products and can offer expert advice tailored to specific needs. They can help identify the appropriate guide bar size, pitch, and gauge, ensuring optimal chainsaw performance. Furthermore, dealers can provide valuable insights into maintenance and safety practices, enhancing the longevity and usability of your equipment. They are familiar with local conditions as well.