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 automat‐
ically if you use the prescribed file holder and file
diameter.
Cutter shapes
Angle (°)
A
B
Micro = semi chisel cutter, e.g.
63 PM3, 26 RM3, 71 PM3
30
75
Super = chisel cutter, e.g. 63 PS3,
26 RS, 36 RS3
30
60
Ripping chain, e.g. 63 PMX,
36 RMX
10
75
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.
21.4
File holder
689BA025 KN
► Use a file holder
A file holder must be used for manual resharpen‐
ing (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.
21.5
For checking angles
001BA203 KN
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.
21.6
File correctly
► Select sharpening tools according to chain
pitch.
► If you use an FG 2, HOS or USG 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.
► Sharpen the chain frequently, take away as lit‐
tle metal as possible – two or three strokes of
the file are usually enough.
689BA018 KN
90°
689BA043 KN
► Hold the file horizontally (at a right 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 outside of the
cutter.
► The file only sharpens on the forward stroke –
lift the file off the cutter on the backstroke.
► Avoid touching the tie straps and drive links
with the file.
► Rotate the file at regular intervals while filing to
avoid one-sided wear.
► Use a piece of hardwood to remove burrs from
the cutting edge.
► Check angles with the filing gauge.
English
21 Maintaining and Sharpening the Saw Chain
20
0458-473-0121-E
