Stihl MS170 - quick tensioner

[Trock03]

My father in law got me an MS170 for Christmas. I use a saw a few times a year but don't have my own and he knows I hate borrowing things. Read some reviews and seems like it'll be a good limited use saw.

Looks like there is a quick adjust chain tensioner available. Curious if anyone has this kit and can comment on it's reliability.

TC

 

[johninct]

If it is the one with the plastic wignut,/ wheel, it actually works ok. I am sure it won't last as long as the nut/ adjusting screw setup.

 

[shawhite]

We have them on our saws at work. They get abused pretty good and have held up well. As far as convenience you can’t beat it.

 

[Lasu]

Keep the standard chain tensioner, simple, durable and even without extra weight.

 

[rick carpenter]

This is the side tensioner mod I did. Makes it much more convenient to adjust the chain tension. I was lucky to find the right kit with the correct screw and blanking plate right away. Not all include them.

This swap works well. Just make sure you clean and lube it too when you clean the saw after a cutting session. His other vid on the MS170 is worth watching too. I added the steel dogs/spikes too and have found them useful.

My only beef is that my boot toe doesn't fit into the handle opening when starting. So instead of starting it on the ground as an amateur like me should, I have to hold it in the air. Otherwise it's like you said, a good limited use saw.

PS - I like the fact he wears full PPE

 

[WittHay]

I have the MS171 with the 1 nut and side tensioner. Middle picture. Its easy to adjust and holds the tension well. Not sure if this is the same as the add on kits.

Also have a Sthil cordless with the plastic adjuster type and it has its advantages and disadvantages. good for taking the cover off quickly to clean the chain. But if the chain really gets jammed on something its kinda of gibbles it up and you have to play with it to get the right tension.