Overview
When your saw’s bar is grooved out or the chain is stretched beyond adjustment, this 18” combo kit gets you back in action fast. You receive a matched guide bar and cutting chain engineered to OEM dimensions, delivering reliable performance at a fraction of the dealer price. A solid pick for weekend wood-cutting duties.
Key specifications
- Bar length: 18”
- Chain pitch: .325”
- Gauge: .050”
- Includes: guide bar and chain (matched set)
- Material: hardened alloy bar with chrome-plated chain
Compatibility
This combo is built to work with Stihl OEM 3005 008 7017 Fits MS170 and equivalent models that share the same bar-mount geometry. Confirm your saw’s model and year against the compatibility chart to ensure a proper fit, particularly if your saw has been updated with a different oiler setup.
Installation notes
Start by loosening the side-cover nuts and removing the worn bar and chain. Clean the bar pad and oil hole thoroughly. Mount the new bar, drape the chain over the nose sprocket and drive sprocket, and reinstall the cover. Set the tensioner so the chain has slight sag on the underside but stays in the rail, then fully tighten the cover.
Common questions
Q: Will this 18” bar and chain combo fit my Stihl MS170 if it uses OEM bar mount 3005 008 7017?
Yes, this combo is listed as compatible with the Stihl OEM 3005 008 7017 mount and fits the MS170. Before installing, also confirm your saw is set up for a .325” pitch, .050” gauge, and 68 drive link chain so the sprocket and chain match correctly.
Q: Can I install this 18 inch .325” pitch, .050” gauge 68 drive link chain myself, and what should I check after mounting it?
You can install it yourself if you’re comfortable removing the clutch cover, fitting the bar on the studs, routing the chain correctly, and setting chain tension. After installation, make sure the chain cutters face forward on the top of the bar, tension it so the drive links stay engaged while the chain still pulls by hand, and verify bar oil is reaching the chain.
Q: How often should I maintain this 18” guide bar and chain combo to keep it cutting well on my MS170?
Check chain tension every time you fuel up or whenever the chain warms up, since new chains can stretch during early use. Keep the chain sharpened, clean the bar groove and oil holes regularly, and flip the bar periodically to help it wear evenly and extend the life of both the bar and chain.
