Fix Your Stihl MS250 Chainsaw Brake in Minutes!

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Updated in April 2025 | By John
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Stihl Ms250 Chainsaw Chain Brake Not Working

The Stihl MS250 chainsaw is a popular and powerful tool for homeowners and professionals alike. However, one common issue that can occur with this chainsaw is a malfunctioning chain brake. This can be a frustrating and dangerous problem, as it can prevent the chainsaw from being safely stopped.

In this troubleshooting guide, we will discuss the common causes of a Stihl MS250 chain brake not working, and how to diagnose and resolve the problem. By following these steps, you can quickly restore functionality to your chainsaw and get back to work.

Most Common Reasons Of Stihl Ms250 Chainsaw Chain Brake Not Working

Most Common Reasons Of Stihl Ms250 Chainsaw Chain Brake Not Working

1. Loose or damaged chain brake

The chain brake is a safety device that prevents the chain from moving when the chainsaw is not in use. If the chain brake is loose or damaged, it will not be able to stop the chain from moving, which could result in serious injury.

2. Faulty chain brake lever

The chain brake lever is a mechanical linkage that engages the chain brake. If the chain brake lever is faulty, it may not be able to engage the chain brake properly, which could also result in the chain continuing to move.

3. Clogged chain brake oil port

The chain brake oil port is located on the front of the chainsaw and supplies oil to the chain brake. If the chain brake oil port is clogged, the chain brake will not be able to function properly.

4. Low chain brake oil level

The chain brake oil level should be checked regularly and topped up as needed. If the chain brake oil level is low, the chain brake will not be able to function properly.

5. Faulty chain brake switch

The chain brake switch is a electronic switch that engages the chain brake. If the chain brake switch is faulty, it may not be able to engage the chain brake properly.

How to Troubleshoot: Stihl MS250 Chainsaw Chain Brake Not Working

Symptoms of a Stihl MS250 Chainsaw Chain Brake Not Working

There are a few symptoms that you may notice if the chain brake on your Stihl MS250 chainsaw is not working properly. These include:

The chain brake lever does not engage or disengage easily.
The chain brake does not engage when you pull the lever.
The chain brake engages when you do not want it to.
The chain brake is not releasing when you push the lever.

Causes of a Stihl MS250 Chainsaw Chain Brake Not Working

There are a few different things that could cause the chain brake on your Stihl MS250 chainsaw to not work properly. These include:

A worn-out or damaged chain brake spring.
A dirty or damaged chain brake lever.
A misaligned chain brake.
A faulty chain brake switch.

How to Troubleshoot a Stihl MS250 Chainsaw Chain Brake Not Working

To troubleshoot a Stihl MS250 chainsaw chain brake that is not working properly, you will need to:

1. Inspect the chain brake spring for wear or damage.
2. Clean and lubricate the chain brake lever.
3. Align the chain brake.
4. Test the chain brake switch.

Inspect the Chain Brake Spring

The chain brake spring is a critical component of the chain brake system. It is responsible for applying pressure to the chain brake lever and engaging the chain brake. If the chain brake spring is worn out or damaged, it will not be able to properly engage the chain brake.

To inspect the chain brake spring, you will need to:

1. Remove the chain brake cover.
2. Locate the chain brake spring.
3. Inspect the spring for any signs of wear or damage.

If the chain brake spring is worn out or damaged, it will need to be replaced.

Clean and Lubricate the Chain Brake Lever

The chain brake lever is another critical component of the chain brake system. It is responsible for engaging and disengaging the chain brake. If the chain brake lever is dirty or lubricated, it will not be able to properly engage or disengage the chain brake.

To clean and lubricate the chain brake lever, you will need to:

1. Remove the chain brake cover.
2. Locate the chain brake lever.
3. Clean the lever with a clean cloth.
4. Apply a light coat of lubricant to the lever.

Align the Chain Brake

The chain brake must be properly aligned in order to function properly. If the chain brake is misaligned, it will not be able to properly engage or disengage the chain brake.

To align the chain brake, you will need to:

1. Remove the chain brake cover.
2. Locate the chain brake.
3. Align the chain brake so that it is parallel to the chain bar.
4. Tighten the chain brake mounting screws.

Test the Chain Brake Switch

The chain brake switch is a final safety feature that prevents the chain from moving when the chainsaw is not in use. If the chain brake switch is faulty, it will not be able to properly engage the chain brake.

To test the chain brake switch, you will need to:

1. Turn on the chainsaw.
2. Pull the chain brake lever.
3. The chain should stop moving.
4. Release the chain brake lever.
5. The chain should start moving again.

If the chain does not stop moving when you pull the chain brake lever, the chain brake switch is faulty and will need to be replaced.

Conclusion

If you have tried troubleshooting the chain brake on your Stihl MS250 chainsaw and it is still not working properly, you will need to take it to a qualified chainsaw repair technician for further diagnosis and repair.

FAQs: Stihl MS250 Chainsaw Chain Brake Not Working

Why is my Stihl MS250 chainsaw chain brake not working?

There are a few possible reasons why your Stihl MS250 chainsaw chain brake may not be working.

The chain brake lever is not engaged. Make sure that the chain brake lever is fully engaged before starting the chainsaw.
The chain brake spring is broken. If the chain brake spring is broken, the brake will not be able to engage properly. You will need to replace the chain brake spring.
The chain brake cam is worn out. If the chain brake cam is worn out, the brake will not be able to engage properly. You will need to replace the chain brake cam.
The chain brake housing is damaged. If the chain brake housing is damaged, the brake will not be able to engage properly. You will need to replace the chain brake housing.

How do I engage the chain brake on my Stihl MS250 chainsaw?

To engage the chain brake on your Stihl MS250 chainsaw, follow these steps:

1. Press the front hand guard down.
2. Pull the chain brake lever back.

The chain brake should now be engaged.

How do I disengage the chain brake on my Stihl MS250 chainsaw?

To disengage the chain brake on your Stihl MS250 chainsaw, follow these steps:

1. Release the front hand guard.
2. Push the chain brake lever forward.

The chain brake should now be disengaged.

What should I do if my Stihl MS250 chainsaw chain brake is still not working?

If your Stihl MS250 chainsaw chain brake is still not working after you have tried the steps above, you should take your chainsaw to a qualified service technician for further diagnosis and repair.

How can I prevent my Stihl MS250 chainsaw chain brake from failing?

There are a few things you can do to prevent your Stihl MS250 chainsaw chain brake from failing:

Keep the chain brake clean and lubricated.
Inspect the chain brake regularly for wear and tear.
Replace the chain brake parts as needed.
Use your chainsaw safely and according to the manufacturer’s instructions.

By following these tips, you can help to keep your Stihl MS250 chainsaw chain brake working properly for many years to come.

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About The Author

I am John, and I am the creator of this website. I have been in the woodworking industry for about 5 years. I developed my passion for DIY projects around the house when I was in high school. I have discovered a new appreciation for those who have the experience to pass along their expertise. They know what works best and are able to help others. I am proud to be among them.

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