STIHL saw chains are sharpened to a
filing angle of 30°. Exceptions are
ripping chains with a filing angle of 10°.
Ripping chains have an X in their
designations.
B
Side plate angle
The correct side plate angle is obtained
automatically if you use the prescribed
file holder and file diameter.
Cutter shapes
Micro = semi-chisel chain,
e.g. 63 PMC3, 26 RMC3,
36 RMC
Super = full chisel chain,
e.g. 63 PS3, 26 RSC,
36 RSC3
Ripping chain, e.g.
63 PMX, 36 RMX
The angles must be the same on all
cutters. If the angles are uneven: Chain
will run roughly, not in a straight line,
wear quickly and finally break.
File holder
Use a file holder
N
HT 56 C
A file holder must be used for manual
resharpening (see table "Sharpening
Tools"). The correct filing angles are
marked on the file holder.
Use only special saw chain
sharpening files. Other files have the
wrong shape and cut.
For checking angles
Angle (°)
A
B
30
75
30
60
10
75
Use a STlHL filing gauge (special
accessory, see table "Sharpening
Tools"). This is a universal tool for
checking the filing and side plate angles,
depth gauge setting, cutter length and
groove depth. It also cleans the guide
bar groove and oil inlet holes.
File correctly
Select sharpening tools according
N
to chain pitch.
If you use an FG 2, HOS or USG
N
sharpener: Remove the chain from
the bar and sharpen according to
the instructions supplied with the
tool.
Clamp the bar in a vise if necessary.
N
Sharpen the chain frequently, take
N
away as little metal as possible –
two or three strokes of the file are
usually enough.
Hold the file horizontally (at a right
N
angle to the side of the guide bar)
and file according to the angles
marked on the file holder. Rest the
file holder on the top plate and depth
gauge.
Always file from the inside to the
N
outside of the cutter.
The file only sharpens on the
N
forward stroke – lift the file off the
cutter on the backstroke.
Avoid touching the tie straps and
N
drive links with the file.
Rotate the file at regular intervals
N
while filing to avoid one-sided wear.
English
90°
33