Stihl 170 not switching off

[Bluebird]

Has anybody had problems with small Stihls eg 180, 170 in not being able to switch them off. In other words, the O position fails to action. I know what the problem is in that the plastic switch bar unseats itself so that the metal spring is unable to make the appropriate connection to stop the engine. This switch arrangement is on quite a few models and Stihl must be aware of it being  a design fault and also a safety issue but still must sell these chainsaws in their thousands without seemingly not bothering to modify the system. 
Would be happy to learn of your experiences.

Edited September 10, 2020 by Bluebird

[doobin]

Yes, the plastic linkage wears. Not much you can do. They are cheap saws. Built to a price and not designed to last for generations unfortunately. 
 

the husky 135 is cheaper, more power, handles better (for me) and has a proper kill switch if you end up changing. 

[Dan Maynard]

I came across a few videos on fixes for this switch when I was looking for help on my 461. I think people were heating and remoulding the holder, or filing the profile on the shaft itself. Worth a bit of time in YouTube to see if you can find one that matches yours.

Of course Stihl would say they do have a solution, buy a pro range saw.

[peatff]

I had  170 with the bullet connector popping out of the holder on the choke linkage. I used a small tiewrap to hold it and it stays in now, been OK for a couple of years.

[gobbypunk]

Hi yeah the bullet connector on my 170 falls out every so often I keep meaning to put a cable tie on it  and a fix for the broken plastic drill a tiny hole and threadlock a small hook into the hole insert the black bar and close up the hook with pliers .

Cheers Mark

[Bluebird]

I have sent an email to Stihl about this problem and I am aware of the YouTube listings. It seems a pretty inherent problem. Stihl should put a caution on their saws which use this linkage. I don’t expect anything by way of a successful result but will keep you posted.