Lubrication is necessary to prevent premature wear and tear of the moving parts of the Stihl chainsaw. If your chainsaw is not oil, you might not be using it for long.
There are several reasons for this as well as fixes to apply. In this article, we have covered the likely causes of oiling issues in a Stihl chainsaw and the fixes to get it working again
Stihl Chainsaw Not Oiling: Likely Causes
Clogged or Damaged Oil Pump
If the oil pump on your Stihl chainsaw is clogged or damaged, it may not be able to deliver oil properly to the bar and chain. This can be caused by a variety of factors, including the build-up of dirt and debris in the pump, or damage to the pump itself.
Low Oil Level
If the oil level in the reservoir of your Stihl chainsaw is too low, the oil pump will not have enough oil to deliver to the bar and chain. It is important to regularly check the oil level and add oil as needed to ensure that the pump has a sufficient supply.
Worn or Damaged Oil Filter
The oil filter in a Stihl chainsaw is responsible for keeping contaminants out of the oil. If the filter is worn or damaged, it may not be able to properly filter the oil, which can lead to clogs in the pump or delivery system. A dirty or damaged oil filter can also reduce the overall effectiveness of the lubrication system.
Worn or Damaged Oil Pump Drive Sprocket
The oil pump drive sprocket is responsible for turning the oil pump. If the sprocket is worn or damaged, it may not be able to turn the pump properly, which can cause oiling issues.
The oil pump drive sprocket is located between the oil pump and the engine, and is subjected to a lot of wear and tear. It is important to regularly inspect the sprocket and replace it if necessary to ensure that the oil pump is functioning properly.
Stihl Chainsaw Not Oiling: Fixing the Problem
1. Check the Oil Level
Before attempting any other troubleshooting steps, it is important to first check the oil level in the reservoir. If the oil level is low, the chainsaw will not be able to lubricate itself properly, which can lead to problems such as the engine overheating or the chainsaw not operating efficiently.
To check the oil level, locate the oil reservoir on the chainsaw. This is typically a clear plastic or glass window on the side of the chainsaw that allows you to see the oil level inside. If the oil level is below the minimum fill line, you will need to add oil to the reservoir.
To add oil, first determine what type of oil your chainsaw requires. Stihl recommends using a high-quality two-stroke engine oil for their chainsaws. Once you have the correct oil, open the oil reservoir and carefully pour the oil into the reservoir until it reaches the proper level. Be sure not to overfill the reservoir, as this can lead to oil leaks and other problems.
2. Check the Oil Filter
To check the oil filter, locate it on the chainsaw. This is typically a small, cylindrical component located near the oil pump. If the oil filter looks dirty or damaged, it will need to be replaced.
To replace the oil filter, you will need a new oil filter and a set of tools. Consult your chainsaw’s service manual for specific instructions on how to remove and replace the oil filter. In general, you will need to remove the old oil filter and install the new one in its place, making sure that it is securely fastened.
3. Clean the Oil Pump
If the oil pump becomes clogged, it can hinder the flow of oil to the engine, leading to problems such as the chainsaw not oiling properly. To clean the oil pump, you will need to remove it from the chainsaw and soak it in a solution of degreaser and warm water.
To remove the oil pump, you will need a set of tools and a service manual. Consult your chainsaw’s service manual for specific instructions on how to remove the oil pump. In general, you will need to remove the cover that protects the oil pump, and then loosen and remove the bolts that hold the oil pump in place.
Once you have removed the oil pump, soak it in a solution of degreaser and warm water for a few hours. This will help to loosen and remove any dirt or debris that may be clogging the pump. After soaking the pump, thoroughly rinse it with clean water and dry it off before reinstalling it.
4. Replace the Oil Pump Drive Sprocket
To replace the oil pump drive sprocket, you will need a new sprocket and a set of tools. Consult your chainsaw’s service manual for specific instructions on how to remove and replace the oil pump drive sprocket. In general, you will need to disassemble the chainsaw to access the oil pump drive sprocket, and then remove the old sprocket and install the new one in its place.
5. Check the Oil Delivery System
The oil delivery system is responsible for delivering oil from the oil pump to the engine. If the oil delivery system becomes clogged or damaged, it can hinder the flow of oil to the engine, leading to problems such as the chainsaw not oiling properly.
To check the oil delivery system, you will need to disassemble the chainsaw and inspect the various components that make up the system. This may include the oil lines, the oil pump, and the oil filter, among others. If you notice any clogs or damage, you will need to clean or replace the affected components.
To clean the oil delivery system, you may need to remove and soak certain components in a solution of degreaser and warm water. You may also need to use a small brush or a compressed air nozzle to remove any debris that may be stuck in the system.
If you find that any components of the oil delivery system are damaged or beyond repair, you will need to replace them. This may require purchasing new parts and installing them according to the instructions in your chainsaw’s service manual. If you are not comfortable with this type of work, it is recommended to seek the assistance of a professional.
Stihl Chainsaw Preventative Maintenance
To prevent oiling issues in the future, be sure to follow these maintenance tips:
- Use high-quality bar and chain oil that is specifically formulated for chainsaws.
- Check the oil level regularly and add oil as needed.
- Clean or replace the oil filter regularly.
- Keep the oil pump clean by periodically cleaning it with a degreaser and warm water.
- Replace the oil pump drive sprocket if it becomes worn or damaged.
By following these steps, you can help ensure that your Stihl chainsaw is properly lubricated and running smoothly.