28/10/2024
The Stihl MS170 chainsaw stands as a testament to Stihl's commitment to quality and user-friendliness, particularly for domestic users tackling firewood and general garden maintenance. Its compact, lightweight design, coupled with an economical 2-MIX engine and anti-vibration system, makes it an ideal entry-level tool. However, beneath its accessible exterior lies a sophisticated feature crucial for its performance and durability: the automatic chain lubrication system. Understanding this system is paramount for any MS170 owner, as it directly impacts the saw's efficiency, the lifespan of its cutting components, and ultimately, your safety and satisfaction.
Without adequate lubrication, a chainsaw chain and guide bar would quickly overheat, seize, and wear out. The sheer friction generated by a chain travelling at high speeds around a bar is immense. This is where the Stihl MS170's intelligent design truly shines, employing a system that ensures consistent, optimal oil delivery to exactly where it's needed.
The Heart of the System: The STIHL Ematic Chain Lubrication
The Stihl MS170 is equipped with the innovative STIHL Ematic chain lubrication system. This isn't just a basic oil pump; it's a meticulously designed system engineered to provide precise, demand-based lubrication. The primary goal of the Ematic system is to ensure that the saw chain and guide bar receive exactly the right amount of oil, no more and no less, leading to significant benefits for the user.
How does it achieve this? The Ematic system comprises three key components working in harmony:
- The Ematic Guide Bar: This specially designed guide bar features a unique oil channel that directs lubrication precisely to the chain's rivets and the bar's running rails. Unlike conventional bars that might flood the entire surface, the Ematic bar focuses the oil delivery.
- The Oilomatic Saw Chain: Stihl's Oilomatic saw chains are designed with small oil channels in the drive links. As the chain runs, these channels pick up oil from the guide bar's oil channel and distribute it across the entire chain and into the bar groove, ensuring comprehensive lubrication.
- The Automatic Oil Pump: The MS170 features an automatic, non-adjustable oil pump. This pump is driven by the engine and delivers oil to the guide bar whenever the saw is running. The flow rate is pre-set by Stihl to match the typical demands of the MS170's power output and cutting speed, ensuring a consistent supply without user intervention.
The synergy between these components means that the Ematic system can achieve remarkable efficiency. Compared to conventional lubrication methods, it can reduce chain oil consumption by up to 50%. This not only saves you money on consumables but also makes the MS170 more environmentally friendly due to reduced oil wastage.
Why Optimal Lubrication is Non-Negotiable
Understanding the 'how' is one thing, but appreciating the 'why' is equally important. Proper chain lubrication is absolutely critical for several reasons:
- Reduced Friction and Heat: The primary role of chain oil is to reduce the immense friction between the moving chain and the guide bar. This friction, if unchecked, would generate excessive heat, leading to rapid wear of both components. Oil acts as a coolant, dissipating this heat and keeping temperatures within safe operating limits.
- Preventing Premature Wear: Without lubrication, metal-on-metal contact would quickly grind down the chain's drive links, side links, and cutters, as well as the guide bar's rails. This leads to premature stretching, dulling, and ultimately, the need for costly replacements. The oil forms a protective film, significantly extending the longevity of these vital parts.
- Smooth Operation: A well-lubricated chain runs smoothly and efficiently around the guide bar. This reduces the strain on the engine, allowing the saw to maintain optimal cutting performance. A dry chain will drag, causing the engine to work harder, leading to potential overheating and reduced power.
- Enhanced Safety: A chain that is properly lubricated is less likely to bind or seize in the cut, which can be a significant safety hazard, potentially leading to kickback. Smooth operation contributes to better control and a safer cutting experience.
Choosing the Right Chain Oil for Your MS170
While the Ematic system is highly efficient, its performance is contingent on using the correct lubricant. Stihl strongly recommends using high-quality chain oil specifically designed for chainsaws. Do not be tempted to use engine oil, waste oil, or any other type of lubricant, as these are entirely unsuitable and can cause severe damage to your saw.
Types of Chain Oil
Chainsaw chain oils are formulated with specific properties to handle the high-speed, high-friction environment of a chainsaw chain. They typically contain tackifiers to ensure the oil adheres to the chain and is not flung off immediately, as well as anti-wear additives.
| Oil Type | Description | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mineral Chain Oil | Petroleum-based, standard chainsaw oil. | Cost-effective, good performance in most conditions. | Not biodegradable, environmental concerns if spilled. |
| Biodegradable Chain Oil | Vegetable-oil based (e.g., rapeseed oil). | Environmentally friendly, breaks down naturally. Often good adhesion. | Can degrade over long storage periods, may have lower cold-weather performance than some mineral oils. |
| All-Season Formula | Designed for a wide temperature range. | Versatile, reduces need for seasonal oil changes. | May be slightly more expensive than single-viscosity oils. |
Viscosity: Chain oil viscosity is crucial. It needs to be thin enough to flow through the pump and guide bar, but thick enough to cling to the chain and provide effective lubrication. Stihl chain oils are formulated with optimal viscosity for their saws. In colder temperatures, a thinner oil might be required to ensure proper flow, while in warmer conditions, a slightly thicker oil might be beneficial for better adhesion and protection. However, for the average domestic user with an MS170, sticking to Stihl's recommended all-season chain oil is generally the best approach.
Maintaining Your MS170's Lubrication System
Even with an automatic system like Ematic, regular maintenance is crucial to ensure its continued optimal performance. Neglecting these simple steps can lead to lubrication issues, premature wear, and potential damage to your chainsaw.
1. Regular Oil Level Checks
Before each use, always check the chain oil tank level. The MS170 has a translucent oil tank, making this easy to do. Never operate the saw with an empty or critically low oil tank. As a rule of thumb, one tank of chain oil should last approximately as long as one tank of fuel. If your oil is running out significantly faster or slower than your fuel, it could indicate a problem.
2. Cleaning the Guide Bar and Oil Outlet
Sawdust and debris can accumulate in the guide bar groove and around the oil outlet port on the chainsaw body. This buildup can impede oil flow. Periodically, especially when sharpening the chain or cleaning the saw:
- Remove the guide bar and chain.
- Use a Stihl guide bar cleaner or a thin flat tool to scrape out the groove on the guide bar.
- Clean the oil outlet hole on the chainsaw body where the oil exits the pump and enters the bar.
- Ensure the sprocket nose on the guide bar (if applicable) is clean and rotates freely.
3. Inspecting the Oil Pump Outlet
While the Ematic pump is not user-adjustable, you can visually confirm it's working. With the guide bar and chain removed, start the saw briefly (ensure safety precautions are followed, wear gloves and eye protection). Point the saw towards a light-coloured surface (e.g., a piece of cardboard) and rev the engine slightly. You should see a fine spray of oil emerging from the oil outlet port. If no oil appears, there's a problem that needs addressing.
4. Using Clean Oil
Always store your chain oil in a clean, sealed container. Contaminants like dirt or water can clog the oil pump or the fine channels in the guide bar, leading to lubrication failure.
Troubleshooting Common Lubrication Issues
Even with the reliable Ematic system, issues can occasionally arise. Here's a quick troubleshooting guide:
| Problem | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| No Oil Flow to Chain | Empty oil tank, clogged oil outlet/bar groove, damaged oil pump/line, blocked breather hole. | Fill tank, clean outlet/groove, inspect oil lines, check breather hole (small hole near oil cap). If pump is damaged, professional service is needed. |
| Insufficient Oil Flow | Partial clog, incorrect oil viscosity for temperature. | Thoroughly clean system, consider changing oil type if consistently too cold/hot for current oil. |
| Excessive Oil Consumption | Incorrect oil viscosity (too thin), incorrect guide bar/chain combination (unlikely with Ematic). | Ensure correct oil viscosity for ambient temperature. The Ematic system is designed to prevent excessive consumption, so this is less common. |
| Chain Appears Dry/Smokes | Lack of oil flow, dull chain/improper tension causing excessive heat. | Check oil flow (as above). Ensure chain is sharp and tensioned correctly. |
For persistent issues, especially if you suspect an internal pump problem, it's always best to consult a qualified Stihl service technician. Attempting to repair internal lubrication components without proper training can lead to further damage or unsafe operation.
Frequently Asked Questions About MS170 Lubrication
Q: Can I use old engine oil or waste oil for my MS170 chain lubrication?
A: Absolutely not! Using engine oil or waste oil is one of the quickest ways to destroy your chainsaw's guide bar and chain. These oils lack the necessary tackifiers to adhere to the chain and will be flung off instantly. They also don't have the lubrication properties required for high-speed chain operation and can cause severe damage to the oil pump and internal components due to contaminants or improper viscosity. Always use dedicated chainsaw chain oil.
Q: How often should I check the chain oil level?
A: You should check the chain oil level every time you refuel your chainsaw. The MS170 is designed so that the oil tank capacity is roughly equivalent to the fuel tank capacity, meaning they should ideally run out around the same time. Never operate the saw if the oil tank is empty or very low.
Q: My chain isn't getting oil, but the tank is full. What should I do?
A: First, ensure the guide bar groove and the oil outlet hole on the chainsaw body are completely clean and free of sawdust and debris. These are common culprits for blockages. Also, check the small breather hole on the oil tank cap or near the tank; if this is blocked, it can create a vacuum preventing oil flow. If these steps don't resolve the issue, you may have a clogged oil line or a faulty oil pump, which would require professional service.
Q: Is the Ematic system adjustable on the MS170?
A: No, the STIHL Ematic system on the MS170 features an automatic, non-adjustable oil pump. Stihl has pre-set the oil flow rate to be optimal for the MS170's power output and typical usage. This simplifies operation for the user and ensures consistent, efficient lubrication.
Q: How long does a tank of chain oil last on the MS170?
A: A tank of chain oil on the MS170 is designed to last approximately as long as a full tank of fuel. This provides a convenient visual cue for when to refill both. Actual duration can vary slightly depending on cutting conditions (e.g., cutting through very dry wood might consume slightly more oil due to increased friction).
Conclusion
The Stihl MS170's automatic chain lubrication, powered by the ingenious STIHL Ematic system, is a cornerstone of its design, contributing significantly to its ease of use, cutting performance, and remarkable durability. By understanding how this system works, consistently using the correct chain oil, and performing simple yet crucial maintenance tasks, you can ensure your MS170 remains a reliable, high-performing tool for years to come. Remember, a well-lubricated chain is a happy chain, leading to safer operation, more efficient cutting, and a longer lifespan for your valuable chainsaw.
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