Stihl Chainsaw Chain Oiler Not Working? Check This First To Fix Oiling Problems! - Video

Stihl Chainsaw Chain Oiler Not Working? Check This First
Is your Stihl chainsaw not oiling the bar and chain properly? In this video I show you a common part failure as to why this happens on the STIHL ms261 chainsaw.
Worm gear is Stihl part number 1121 640 7102
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Easy to follow and thorough step by step tutorials do it yourself (DIY) to help you with your broken lawn and garden equipment including snowblowers.
I do my best to teach you how to easily diagnose problems the fastest, quickest and most efficient way with real repairs beyond just replacing a spark plug. These tips are for both the homeowner and shop owner.
Whether it be a handheld, two stroke, two cycle engine like a chainsaw, weed eater, weed wacker, string trimmer, grass trimmer, line trimmer, hedge trimmer, strimmer, brush cutter, leaf blower, or four stroke, four cycle units like a lawnmower, wood splitter, lawn tractor, snowblower, pressure washer, generator or a ride on mower that needs parts installed or replaced, I’m your go-to guy.
My favorite brands of spark plugs are NGK and Champion and are the ones I recommend.
I’ve been a small engine mechanic for many decades and also run my own repair shop so my videos are loaded with tips and tricks that I have learned and want to share with you. You will also find many tool and product reviews from top brands on my channel as well.
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[@donyboy73]

Watch my video here on why most Stihl chainsaws leak bar oil; kzbin.info/www/bejne/qJ2QaoOkjbJ3gZY

[@YaxisX]

Thank you Donyboy73. This is a great explanation. You are absolutely the most clear, concise, objective presenter I have ever found.

[@mmk5638]

Both my brother’s and my MS-261 chainsaws’ oiling system failed when brand-new. Both saws were serviced by dealers with a thick Echo chain oil (red) at delivery. The part you are talking about on this video is designed to slip to protect the oiling system (i.e. debris clogging the bar outlet). I suspect that if everyone used correct viscosity of chain oil this would not be an issue. Noticed your saw that was repaired looked to have some red dye in the oil (Echo chain oil). I use Stihl bar and chain oil exclusively which is a totally different viscosity.

[@robr9905]

That was as enjoyable as it was informative. You have an excellent speaking voice and perfect delivery.

[@adnacraigo6590]

I have learned more about outdoor power equipment maintenance by watching your channel for the last couple of years that I had learned in my life before. I'm 70 years old now.

[@MarkSWilliams27]

Me too. He's a great teacher.

[@stuinit2793]

Watching this video should be a prerequisite for people that are going to add "how to" or repair tip videos to KZbin. Quick, to the point and easy to understand info with no extra b.s. Thank you!

[@pjofurey6239]

This guy must be a biker , clear concise explanation, no “hi guys “ life story BS - GO CANADA !,,,

[@scottmohan1779]

Thank you DonyBoy, a very helpful and informative video. I have been having oiling issues for a long time and thought I had it nailed with your video. But when I took the clutch apart I discovered that the oiler was not loose as shown in your video. Instead, it seems like the sprocket or the clutch drum is too small, leaving about a 16th inch of wiggle room. Thus, when the clutch is engaged, the clutch drum simply lifts away from the oiler. Have you ever heard of anything like this? All I can think of is that the wrong part was installed by the manufacturer. I'm considering just purchasing a replacement clutch drum and seeing if it fits better.

[@dougjacobson6232]

Thanks for showing how the oil pump works,very clear video many thanks .

[@OpaKnows]

You're doing a good thing sharing all these tips and your knowledge with us, Don. Many thanks.

[@ProteusDIY]

This happened to me today. 029 was intermittently oiling. Either bone dry or working fine. No leaks in oil pick up line, cleaned out the reservoir just in case there was debris, and checked plastic bit that goes between the pump and the body. It turned out to be the oil worm gear. Replaced for $20 and was on my way. Thank you for posting this.

[@ColinQuinnuniverse]

Thank you for the clear and concise explanation. My MS261 just stopped oiling yesterday. Now I have an idea what to address.

[@famasmaster2000]

What a cheap part. Especially on a "pro" saw. Wow Good fix tho Don. Well done 👏

[@jimgiambruno5820]

Good video. You might check bar first (unlike I did) first because it can be clogged at the port resulting in no oil.

[@drslick1198]

I can't tell you how helpful your diy videos are. Explaining it clear with patience. Thanks.👍

[@mrrangemaster]

Great video, I have a Stihl MS391, I'm guessing that mine will have the same issue. I totally cleaned everything and still no oil comes out. Thanks for sharing

[@popoandsonlawncare710]

Another great one! Thank you! I only run stihl and do have issues and continue to keep them maintained. Meaning taking it to the mechanic 45 minutes away. I wish I had the time to work on them more. I do mostly everything now. Still learning. What brands do you see less of??? Meaning the better brand, haha, that you recommend for my small lawn care business. We do cut small trees and limbs. Thanks for the tips!! Ms170 16 inch is my favorite of my 4 chainsaws.

[@donyboy73]

yes the small ms170,180 are great little saws

[@RollingEasy]

Too much oil is my problem on a 260 but I saw 'Steve' point out that there was an oil hole right beside the exhaust which could and or should, be blocked off... This is interesting because I always seem to find at the start of a new season, a huge amount of gungy black oil appears here and yet over a little time and use, the problem eases right up... Recommendation is to get part 0000 953 1001 a set screw and to close up this oil hole.... How do you see this problem? Perhaps you've spoken of this before but I've yet to see... Thank you for your excellent videos as always.... Very well done every single one of them.

[@philipperenaud4273]

Thank you for this video. I'm a hero now I fixed our 441 by watching this video. My boss was ready to go buy a new 500i which wouldn't have been a bad thing but I manage to save a couple thousand dollars by swapping this piece. This was so much fun to do as well maybe its time I take a small engine mechanics course. As an arborist who uses saws everyday it would be very useful. 😊

[@49ProRatStreet]

You do a great job explaining these situations and are appreciated by us DIY guys. Thank you...

[@GrampiesWorkshop]

Hey there Dony!!! Great video again buddy!!! The only oiling problem I have had is on a Troy Built Saw. The oil pump was damaged and I can't find a replacement. Other than that, I enjoy watching you make repairs each week and you have saved me many times!!! Thanks!!! Take care!!

[@nightprowlerch19]

Does this ever happen on brand new chainsaws. I just picked up a 251C. The chain seems dry It doesn't seem like it's getting as much oil as it should.

[@leoramirez7583]

Sound's like a job for JB weld

[@obrienqwerty]

If I were a manufacturer, I'd be terrified every time you posted a new video.

[@fillslawncare]

I wonder if the MS500i has the same design 🤔

[@dprevish100]

Excellent helpful video! I did have a question before I dig into this issue and troubleshoot. There is some sort of oil filter that I see at the bottom of the galley of the tank for the oil. Could it be that this is just clogged with oil, if so, how would I fix this easily?

[@stephenabbott6063]

This is awesome my 261 is just starting to not oil the bar and chain thanks for the video

[@karlreading8559]

I have a brand new 261 and think this might be my issue. Mine is giving some oil out, but even after completely cleaning everything out and making sure nothing is blocked, and the oiler is turned to full open, i'm barely getting anything. My guess is this part is just not fully grabbing as it should. I probably have 3-4 hours on the saw at most, and mostly light to moderate cutting.

[@xo6910]

Same here in Maryland

[@trumpzilla4193]

A long time logger recently switched to Husqvarna - loves it.. are Husqvarnas putting out better quality?

[@zlatkovujevic7348]

The husqvarna OEM parts are more expensive that a Stihl, but last time when I check the air filter for husqvarna are made in Japan.

[@robertshoemaker6204]

Yep switched back to Husqvarnas...getting away from Stahls...

[@fillslawncare]

A true expert at work right here. Thanks Don!

[@tomgaffy9434]

I am an older adult. I have enjoyed watching all of your videos and learning how to make some repairs. As I'm retires I'm going to start doing some work. I have a little technical knowledge from the auto industry. Acquiring the correct manuals and specs would help as I proceed. I'm not on any social media though so I can't contact you that way. Keep up your thorough instruction....I'll keep watching.

[@richard9610]

Very informative. Advice on (MS261C) if the oil quantity control screw is stripped, do you need to replace the oil pump for the fix. Now pumping a lot of oil. Would like to reduce flow.

[@Average-AL]

Hi. Thank you for showing this. If there is a little oil coming out, but not enought could this part be the problem or does it totally stop oil from coming out if this is broken?

[@donaldmcclure373]

One of the best professional videos I've ever

[@joemesserhd1]

Piston stop demonstration would be helpful as well..... great video with useful information..... thank you

[@feez357]

Basically you get the piston about half way up so no ports are exposed and stuff a rope into the spark plug hole.

[@joemesserhd1]

@@feez357 Thank you so much .

[@michaelniemann6110]

Very helpful! Thank you for the video. I have an MS260 which I assume may be near identical.

[@richardstrada212]

Great information. Thank you. Can you do a video to how to lock the clutch for DYI'ers like me?

[@duanenewstead3282]

Thank you for actually making a decent video. Trying to look it up and get some info but every other videos were just cleaning a clogged oiler. 👍👍👍

[@mattsfirewoodvideos738]

It dont surprise me in the least that the parts are getting cheaper and cheaper with time thank you for letting the general public know I have a 026 im assuming its the same but now I have some guidance and will delve in this weekend

[@Mikey-g4g]

I’m rebuilding a 021. It’s over oiling, is it possible that I have installed the oiler in to far? How far should it go in. Where does the oiler meet the worm gear?

[@tdizzle2179]

what can you use if you dont have a piston stop without damaging the engine thanks for all you do👍

[@donyboy73]

kzbin.info/www/bejne/jYiZYneId9WJf9U

[@butler386]

I agree. An expensive top brand should be made with quality. As they cheapen their equipment folks will begin to purchase less expensive saws which will last about as long. Thanks for sharing.

[@stephenkeeling7549]

Thank you for getting to the point and not wasting my time. Great video donyboy73

[@cpd8619]

Thank you sir. You saved me hours of troubleshooting my MS461.

[@ericcorliss]

Fantastic vid. Clear explanation making me feel like I can investigate myself. I wonder how much they would charge at a shop for this?

[@davidsung560]

Are the parts the same on SM251? Please let me know. Thank you!

[@shader26]

Great info! Do you happen to know if the 241 also uses this part?

[@TreasureMann]

I might have just the problem you’re describing with my MS251, but I can’t get below the wheel: it just wont come off as it turns with the axis. How can I stop the axis from turning without damaging it?

[@garrettstevensen2467]

I have subscribed to your channel many years ago. Thank you for all your help. You have saved me a small fortune.

[@r6erbuyafool]

I have a MS260 that sends out bar oil like it gets paid by the ounce. What’s your advice? MS260. Non adjustable oiler. Should I just upgrade?

[@semco72057]

That is a great video and tip on that model saw and I have a MS 250 chainsaw and is still working with getting it to crank for me, but don't have the oiling problem yet. You must have save many people time and money by viewing your videos and getting their own equipment working themselves. After the problem I had with my Stihl saw I swore never to buy another one and got a Poulan Pro saw and have the same problem with it too. The Poulan saw had to go to the repair shop after getting it home and the company paid to have the defective carburetor changed out and it is collecting dust along with the Stihl saw. I purchased a battery saw from the Poulan company and it works great though.

[@donyboy73]

battery powered chainsaw is the way to go from small projects

[@martinswiney2192]

Thanks. I think that may be one of many problems on my saw. Did not know about this part.

[@thegt101ish]

Great vid Dony I have that problem right now. 7 dislikes don't understand that.

[@donyboy73]

jealous youtubers but that's ok

[@matthutchinson3139]

I have a ms362 with same problem, replaced oil pump, it has burnt up 25 inch chains, drilled out Oiler hole in bar, no help, changed oil pump ,again replaced with a pump of from bigger saw. ( took advice from arborists site). Didn’t work. When running saw with 25 inch bar. It uses less than a half of tank of bar oil, and ruins chain. And no the chain isn’t to tight

[@myawesomelife9269]

Good video Don, I have had my Stihl 017 since 1999, and thanks to this video it will continue to see good service.

[@jacobgood160]

Mr.....I feel like an idiot lol. I have a newer MS saw that will oil unless the bar is on it, iv messed with it a few times and remember wondering wow the helll that part worked free spinning... I've been using my old 028 for like 3 years because of it Thanks for the knolage

[@bryancollingwood5338]

Thanks again Donny Boy, you are saving me a bundel on gas and trips to the repair shop.

[@petersparkie]

Thanks from Australia. Very helpful

[@jimmyfaherty8588]

So, just bought a 261. I'm worried about the oiler. The Stihl oil is super thick. And, doesn't seem to disperse as fast as it should. Problem?

[@thardyryll]

I own a dozen pieces of Stihl equipment, and have used their stuff almost exclusively for 25 years. But a $125 Chinese saw I bought on eBay is sure giving my fancy Stihl top-handle saws a run for the money. It is pathetic that Stihl doesn’t have the balls to directly respond to excellent videos like this to explain precisely what is being done about reliability issues with their equipment. Dony has also done a top-notch vid about another lousy Stihl design: the “tool less” oil and fuel caps on many of their saws.

[@gettindrunker]

Man I was thinking these things cost way too much to find ourself on here chasing demons. Already had the little plastic gear pawl deal for the pull chord go bad twice. Saw is 3 years old

[@mrtaktiks]

Hey Don. Have an EGO cordless chainsaw and I have had it cutting exceptionally well ... and then not. I am good about sharpening the blade, and on numerous occasions I have cleaned the oil passage and blew out the bar grooves and oil slots and removed all cutting debris. I tried removing the chain and blade and ran the chainsaw. Oil flowed, albeit oozing slowly but I thought that was because it was cold out. Will a chainsaw oiler function if it is cold? And how cold? So, I put the chain back on ... in right direction, started it and spun blade in front of a log and did not see oil residue. What do you think? Brought chainsaw inside overnight and went out to try it. No. Even tried loosening the oil cap to see if it would release a "vacuum" if there was one. BTW EGO's customer service is outsourced BS. I have many EGO tools, but I am ready to jump ship because I cannot rely on their "Non" Customer Service! No wonder Home Depot cancelled their contract. Try going to an Ace Hardware and they have a half-dozen items (no space) and you'll talk to some knucklehead who has no understanding of the product.

[@Patriot1066Tom]

Nice and intuitive video! Thanks. Quick question. Do I need to clean the clutch chamber and clutch itself, since it's dirty? I tend to use brake cleaner. Is that harmful in any way?

[@louisthomas8989]

Thanks I have thissaw and having an oiling problem. Big help

[@danmeekis6208]

cool I was wondering about my ms 261 the oil hole was plug up with chips I cleaned it still now oil coming out I hope its this part

[@gadgethunter5732]

I have a ms260 but the oil pump is plastic and the worm gear is metal. Non adjustable model. What makes the worm gear spin? It mounts on the crank but is not keyed in any way. Friction ? Getting no oil to bar. The bar sprocket seizes up.

[@scubaseppy]

I have a Stihl 026 with a non-adjustable oil pump. Can you install a version like this on a non-pro 026? I'm having problems finding parts.

[@tomsawyer247]

After troubleshooting my ms170 the first thing I would check is turn the saw upside down and Rev up the saw and check for oil at the oil hole. If you get oil then it's most likely your hose is cracked.

[@mikesutton254]

Can you or do you have a video on replacing the engine housing on a Sthil 250 chain saw. When I removed the sprocket I discovered that the worm gear had melted to the plastic. It is a mess. The chain saw does not leak and it runs great. I don’t know what to do at this point. Help please. A frustrated father.

[@paulmollise1856]

Had this issue every once in awhile on my MS250C I bought brand new, after a refill of oil I had no oil at bar? Had it happen twice and took it back under warranty, dealer could not find anything wrong, had the saw for about 10 years now. Every once in awhile it will still do it, usually removing the full cap and pulling the bar will fix the issue, never really investigated it further since it was sporadic, yes Stihl products have definetly gotten cheaper compared to my 1971 O20 AVP that’s still running

[@kiwiinkampuchea]

Excellent info. Thanks you present the video clearly. Cheers from NZ.

[@pm270100]

yep just did one today on a 026C

[@DIESEL5313]

I’m having the same issue on my ms291. Would this likely be the culprit for no oil on a 291 as well?

[@jazpanoz4996]

Smooth as always Dony. I am going to call it , a part designed to fail for service/parts manufacturers revenue........$$$

[@lorinkramer1524]

Help! My 311 leaks/drips bar oil terribly. The oil leaks when the saw is run at moderate to full RPMs. It looks like it's being thrown over the sprocket and drips down the sprocket cover. Within a minute of starting, you've got drips everywhere right under the saw, not being thrown by the chain. I've been back to the dealer and they tell me: 1. They all do that. That is complete BS. 2. "Well gee, the oiler is set as low as it can go." Obviously, something is not right. Could the oil line that goes from the tank to the oiler be torn? The saw actually does not have that many hours on it. Thanks very much!

[@tomgorman9447]

Can you show the difference between a good clutch drum and a worn out one?

[@taxidriverfotogensamlaren9241]

Real nice video. Do you know witch else Sthil saws use the same oiler? Best regards from a cold Sweden

[@rinserepeat2877]

Terrific instructions and knowledge. Thank you!!❤

[@mikem4883]

Excellent video and explanation. One of the best

[@NHPatriot]

Thank you, I think this might be my problem with my 38 Magnum oiler. This video is very helpful!

[@13r4nd0]

Can I just use epoxy to keep it from happening again if I find this issue? Or will it cause an issue because it needs to slightly move for any reason?

[@donyboy73]

epoxy may not last

[@13r4nd0]

@@donyboy73 Okay, thanks bud. Also, my clutch covers seem to be burned up on 2 of my Stihl saws just around the edges, with no other indication of heat damage...maybe you could do a video on that or another quick knowledgeable idea of why would sufice, and be appreciated. I was thinking that maybe the worm gear may coincide with this issue too.

[@joeclem2060]

thanks man! we bought a new oil pump not knowing this!! now that ive seen this i know what to check!next ha ha

[@mattbrungard8285]

Does the ms180 mini boss have the same key for oiling the bar?

[@philipyourno7540]

Nice work! Can you show how to modify a 660 oiler to increase oil flow when the screw is all the way in?

[@Moparmucelli]

Hi donyboy73 I just had some one give me a stihl TS500i concrete saw what’s your opinion on these saws?

[@dcvariousvids8082]

One if the groups I volunteer with recently got two new saws, an MS261 C-M, on a 16” bar, which at the moment is good but then it’s done perhaps just over 1.5hrs. But their new MS391 on a 20inch bar, has done less than an hour and already has ceased oiling, is stalling and once hot, will only start on full throttle, (as if starting a flooding engine). The 391 has only had Aspen 2 in it and the carb has been adjusted by the qualified operator but the bottom end still bogs. The air filter is clean and in good condition. Now the operator that the saw was given to, could investigate this, that and the other and maybe spend out on parts if needed. But considering the saw has less than an hour on it, it’s going back to the dealer as a rejected buy. Whether the dealer gives them a partial refund or fixes it, is up to the dealer. But the operator who’d been given to believe, he’d be receiving an MS400 C-M and was a little surprised, has lost faith in the 391. Also, he’d prepped by buying a few spares for a 400, which are now surplus to requirement. He’s not a happy bunny and has gone back to the other operator’s old MS261. That saw is 5-6yrs. old and is running well. It had a minor erratic starting issue 6mths. back but a new plug solved it. The operator of the old and new 261s, said the 391 operator, would only get the newer 261, if prised from her cold dead hands. We’ll see what comes of the 391.

[@MrRanggong]

I love your concise videos. No mindless chatter like most. For fixers by a fixer.

[@adnacraigo6590]

I don't think my Stihl MS391 is oiling enough even though it is adjusted to max oiling. It has been like that since I bought it new. Any suggestions?

[@usaroseinc]

Thank you - all these videos i looked at show how to check if its working...well I knew that...stopped going through oil - oil are the first to show how to repair it. One question I have a MS291 - same part? Many thanks. Hmmm 8 thumbs down...whats up with those buggers ???

[@donyboy73]

not sure check parts numbers

[@bnscholet911]

I wonder if you could drill a small hole through the plastic flange and metal c clip and put a roll pin through it and run it

[@matthewvelderman900]

I replaced that part along with others, my saw isn’t getting oil on the bar any other possibilities what’s going on?

[@stuckinnj9554]

I noticed the end of the oiler lever appears to be well worn. What is this indicative of? Is this the casual component or subsequent failure? Great video. Like everyone else, I learn something new with every video🛠🔧👍👍

[@EdIverson-x5d]

I learn so much from Donyboy thank you.

[@alanross3435]

Hey Don, thanks for all you do for us peeps! My farm boss 271 doesn't use as much oil as it did when new, could it be that part starting to go bad? I have cleaned out the oil passages, no change!👍🏻✌🏻️

[@donyboy73]

check for an adjusting screw

[@jtreadwell9173]

@@donyboy73 the 271 doesn't have an adjustment screw. It's an "automatic" system. Currently having problems with it myself.

[@jeffersonprice3800]

​@@jtreadwell9173same problem with 271

[@davidpuccini5139]

Excellent video with all the right details and right to the point, no time wasted. Thank you and keep up the good work.

[@markwillride]

Exactly like a starter problem on certain older Yamaha models.

[@xx3868]

Can you bend in that c clip arm so it grabs the oiler tighter?

[@robbeaupre8110]

Don, Instead of replacing the part, do you think it's possible to take a CirClip pliers and close the ring around the rubber part, using the end with the two holes?

[@donyboy73]

possibly but I don't do that for customers because they will be back

[@gsschneck]

How did you get the reverse threaded clutch loose? Mine is on tight and rotates the shaft that passes through it while I try to get it off. Even when I use vice grips to hold the shaft still, it will not budge. Any tips would be helpful. Thank you,

[@donyboy73]

you can buy a piston stop at the stihl dealer

[@gsschneck]

@@donyboy73 I figured it ou. Use the rope method. However, I replaced the worm gear and still do not get bar oil. What should I check next. When I run the chain saw I can see small bubbles form in the bar oil reservoir when I remove the cap. Not sure what that means though.

[@donjohnson3082]

Great video that was easy to understand.

[@ngnmech]

After working on small engines and chainsaws for over 23 years, I have found that most oil pump driver failures can be traced back to using poor quality bar oil at low temperatures. the oil is too thick which causes too much resistance and strips the driver or pump gear. I have seen some oil almost refuse to pour from the bottle at low temperatures. 30W oil with the pour point of 140W gear lube.