In this video, we show you how to change the Recoil Assembly on a Stihl MS170.

Health & Safety Warning - Please ensure that you have safely prepared the machine and workspace. If you are unsure about any aspect of the task please seek professional advice.

Transcript

Today, we're going to change the Recoil Assembly on a Stihl MS170 Chainsaw. Make sure the chain is free before starting. Use a 19mm Hex Socket Spanner to loosen the two nuts that hold on the sprocket cover on the side of the machine. Then use a screwdriver to loosen the chain tensioning screw between the guide bar and the machine, you will notice the chain will begin to become slack. Continue to unscrew the two sprocket cover nuts on the side of the machine. This will allow you to remove the casing, completely freeing the chain and bar. Remove the shroud casing by using a 19mm hex socket spanner to release the lock. Then push the choke lever downwards in order to free the shroud from the base. You can then remove the shroud completely. This is a good time to replace your air filter if you need to. Now remove the screw holding the handle in place using a torx spanner. You will need to lift the hand guard out of it's position. Then unscrew and fully remove the fuel filler & oil filler caps. It would be a good idea to do this repair when the tanks are empty. Then remove the three remaining torx screws holding the recoil assembly on. This will release the recoil assembly. Remember to remove the model plate if you are not replacing it, this can be attached to your new recoil assembly. After you have placed the new recoil assembly on to your machine check that the pulley is free, with tension. Place the hand guard back into its position, and secure with the screw. Then fix the three remaining screws back onto the recoil assembly. Now screw the fuel fillers caps back into the machine. Place the shroud back onto the machine, and secure it with the lock. Make sure to test that the switch and triggers are working in all positions. When placing the chain onto the guide bar make sure that the cutting edge, highlighted in red, is facing away from the body of the machine on the top edge of the guide bar. This means that the cutting edge should be facing in the direction of the blades rotation.If the chain is placed in the wrong direction it could lead to further problems, and will give the affect of a blunt chain. This should be avoided by taking the correct precautions. Place the chain around the bar. Pick the bar up and feed the chain round by pulling it around the bar. Make sure the chain moves in a smooth motion and doesn't snag. Place the chain around the chain sprocket. Make sure the two screws are seated in the opening in the guide bar. Place the casing back on and hand screw on the two nuts. Using the screwdriver to tighten the chain tensioning screw between the guide bar and the machine. Once together, make sure the chain is moving smoothly and isn't too tight and doesn't have excessive slack. That's how you change the Recoil Assembly on a Stihl MS170.

Parts

Parts and tools included in the MS170 how-to video.

• Model Plate - 1130 967 1504
• Recoil Assembly - 725 019
• Genuine Recoil Starter Assembly - 1130 080 2100
• Sprocket Cover Nut M8 - 0000 955 0801
• Air Filter Element - 1130 124 0800
• Top Cover/Shroud - 1130 140 4709
• N/G Torx Wrench/Plug Spanner (13mm & 19mm) - 410 250