Problems with Stihl MS261.....

[ldj92]

Hello

 

Im having a few problems with a second hand 261 i bought. It is a 2009 model i think.

 

Firstly

 

*The saw doesn't like to be left on tick over so it cuts out.

*Sometimes doesn't like the chain brake to be applied.

*I can notice it lags power for a second before revving up to full speed

*When it cuts out it doesn't like to warm start, I normally have to half choke it or something.

 

Secondly

 

I am a complete amateur at chainsaw mechanics but decided to try and fix the machine myself. I messed about with the carb settings a bit and currently can't decide if i made it better or worse. To be perfectly honest i couldn't tell the difference. I then took it to pieces and took the clutch drum off. Decided to give it some revs and shortly after the coil spring for the chain brake popped out. I shouldn't find this too difficult to repair but the existing one is bent and won't go back into place.

 

Does anybody know exactly what i need to do to fix this machine, what parts i am going to need and where is the best place to source them.

 

I need the saw at the weekend so any help would be hugely appreciated.

 

Thanks for reading!

 

Luke

[Ian C]

Early 261's are a bag of crap I have one as well!

 

The easiest fix is to sell it and buy a husky, dolmar, echo etc!

 

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[monkeybusiness]

Check the end of the crank isn't scored/damaged where the needle roller bearing runs. If it is then that will be likely be the answer to most of your problems (but is hugely expensive to repair unfortunately).

[munky0211]

Clutch springs,

Stihl is naff tho!

unfortunately

 

 

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[spudulike]

The chain break issue will be the clutch needle bearing.

 

The lack of pickup, try turning the L screw 1/4 turn out and adjust the idle to correct the lower idle it will create.

[SteveT1989]

Needle bearing dude, I'm on my third one now. just work without using the chainbreak

 

I didnt realise the first one go, it completely shattered. Then was told that the crank had been worn down and the oiler arm disintegrated.

 

Just a matter of time really before you write off the saw or keep chucking money at it.

 

[wood cutter]

I just got mine back after a clutch clip came off and was smashed by the worm gear!

 

Had to go back to shop and was repaired under warranty, new crank, clutch , needle bearing, and a sour drive sprocket fitted instead of rim drive.

 

All is working well for now.

 

Good luck

 

 

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[warren]

Do the new 261's have issues with chain brake?

[stihlmadasever]

  On 05/05/2018 at 09:06, warren said:

Do the new 261's have issues with chain brake?

Expand  

Chain brake issues can be a symptom of other underlying problems.

Is the chain brake stiff and difficult to engage?

If so have you checked for a build up of crud under the cover

[warren]

No sorry . I meant only able to start them with the chain brake off. . I think ive read its a clutch needle bearing problem .. just wondered if that is stihl(!) a problem on the new ie 2017/2018 saws.