Tensioning The Chain - Stihl MS 500i Instruction Manual

10 Assembling the Chain Saw
► Direct the drive links into the groove of the guide bar (6,
arrow) while turning the side chain tensioner (3) clockwise
until it stops.
The guide bar and chain must be firmly and securely
mounted on the saw.
► Fit the sprocket cover on the saw so that it is flush with the
housing.
► Turn the nuts clockwise until the chain sprocket cover is
firmly attached to the saw.
10.2.2 Removing the Guide Bar and Chain
► Unscrew the nuts.
► Remove the chain sprocket cover.
► Turn the side chain tensioner counter-clockwise until it
stops and the chain is loose.
► Remove the guide bar and chain.
NOTICE
The top and bottom of the guide bar are symmetrical, and
the bar may be mounted with the printing facing up or down.
Flipping the guide bar each time the chain is sharpened or
changed will help reduce uneven wear and improve its
service life.

10.3 Tensioning the Chain

WARNING
To reduce the risk of severe personal injury from chain
derailment, check chain tension frequently, @ 5.6. At
operating temperatures, the chain stretches and sags. New
chain tends to stretch more than used chain. Tension the
chain so that the drive links cannot come out of the groove
on the underside of the guide bar.
To properly tension the chain:
► Shut off the engine, @ 15.
► Disengage the chain brake, @ 12.2.
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► Loosen the nuts (1).
► Lift the guide bar tip.
► Turn the side chain tensioner (2) clockwise to tighten the
chain.
A properly adjusted chain will sit closely against the
underside of the guide bar but can still be pulled easily
along the bar by hand. Always wear gloves when handling
the chain.
► If the chain cannot be moved along the guide bar, it is too
tight.
– Reduce the tension by turning the side chain tensioner
counter-clockwise until the chain can move freely along
the guide bar.
– Ensure that the drive links remain in the groove and that
the chain fits snugly against the underside of the guide
bar.
► Once the chain is properly tensioned, tighten the nuts to
secure the chain sprocket cover.
NOTICE
Always release tension on the chain after finishing work. The
chain contracts as it cools down. If it is not slackened, it can
damage the drive shaft and bearings. Properly re-tension
the chain before using the saw again.
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