Where is the Oil Adjustment on Stihl Chainsaw – The 1 Secret to it’s location

If you’re not getting enough bar-and-chain oil (or you’re getting way too much), many Stihl chainsaws let you adjust the oiler output with a small screw on the saw body.

Where is the oil adjustment on a Stihl chainsaw?

It depends on the model. On many Stihl saws that have an adjustable oiler, the adjustment screw is on the underside of the saw, close to the bar mount / clutch-cover area. Look for a small recessed screw head, often near a marking that indicates oil output (for example, a + / – or an oil drop icon).

If you do not see an adjustment screw, your model may have a fixed oiler (no manual adjustment). In that case, focus on the basics first: correct bar oil, clean bar groove and oil hole, clean/replace the oil pickup filter, and confirm the oil pump is functioning.

How to adjust bar oil flow (the safe way)

1. Safety first: shut the saw off and let it cool. Remove the spark plug boot if you are working around the clutch cover area.
2. Find the adjustment screw on the underside near the bar mount area (if your saw has one).
3. Use the markings, not left/right: turn the screw a small amount toward + (more) to increase oil and toward – (less) to decrease oil. Different models can place the screw in a way that makes left/right confusing.
4. Make small changes: start with a 1/8 turn, then test again.
5. Test oiling: run the saw briefly and point the bar tip at a light surface (cardboard/wood). You should see a light line/splatter of oil.

Important: if you see contradictory advice online about clockwise/counterclockwise, that is usually because (a) the screw orientation differs by model, and (b) people describe it as left/right while looking from different angles. Use the saw’s own + / – marking (if present) or your model’s owner manual.

If you’re adjusting the screw but it still isn’t oiling

• Bar oil tank is empty (or wrong oil viscosity for conditions)
• Bar oil pickup filter is clogged
• Bar groove / oil hole is packed with debris
• Oil pump drive issue or worn pump

In summary

On many Stihl chainsaws, the oiler adjustment screw is on the underside near the bar mount area, but not every model has an adjustable oiler. If yours does, adjust it in small increments and follow the saw’s own + / – markings (or your specific manual) rather than relying on left/right descriptions.

Safety note: always work on a cooled, shut-off saw, and wear eye and hand protection when servicing or testing.