It is scary when your Stihl chainsaw brake is not working. That brake stops the chain if the saw kicks back. It keeps you safe. I knew I had to stop work right away.
I put the saw on my bench. I have used saws for years. I knew I could fix this. If you have this problem, here is what I did.
Why the Brake Fails
I thought I broke a part. I worried it would cost a lot to fix. But honestly? It was just dirt.
I looked close at the saw. The parts were fine. The issue was a lack of cleaning.
Here is what I checked and how I fixed it.
1. The “Gunk” Build-Up
This was my problem. I took off the clutch cover. That is the orange side panel. Inside, it was a mess.
Sawdust and oil had mixed into a thick paste. It was packed tight around the brake band.
The brake band is a metal strip. It clamps on the drum to stop the chain. My band was stuck in the gunk. It could not close tight.
The Fix: I grabbed my tool and scraped out the big chunks. Then, I used an old brush to clean the rest. Once it was clean, the band could move freely.
2. The Worn Metal Band
I also checked the band itself. On old saws, this metal strip can wear down. It can get very thin. If it snaps, your brake is dead.
My band was still in one piece. If yours looks snapped or bent, you must buy a new one. They are cheap and easy to swap.
3. The “Tripped” Cover
This happens to me sometimes. Did you take the side cover off and now it won’t go back on?
If you take the cover off while the brake is “on,” the inside part locks shut. We call this a “tripped” brake. It won’t fit back on the saw.
The Fix: You have to reset it by hand. I put the cover flat on my bench. I put a wrench in the lever slot. Then, I pull it back hard until I hear a loud CLICK. That sound means it is fixed.
Quick Fix Guide
I made this chart to help you find the problem fast.
| Sign | What I Check | The Fix |
| Chain won’t stop | Is the cover dirty? | Clean it. Remove the oil and sawdust paste. |
| Chain won’t move | Is the brake locked? | Reset it. Pull the handle back until it clicks. |
| Hand guard is loose | Is the spring broken? | Replace it. Get a new brake spring kit. |
| Brake slips | Is there oil inside? | Wash it. Clean the drum with brake cleaner. |
Why This Matters
I love my Stihl MS 250. It works hard. But safety is a habit, not just a rule.
After I cleaned out the gunk, I put the saw back together. I started it up. I hit the brake.
Clunk. The chain stopped dead.
I smiled. It was a small win. But it meant I could get back to work safely.
If your Stihl chainsaw brake is not working, do not panic. Take the cover off. Look inside. Most of the time, it just needs a good cleaning.
FAQs – Stihl Chainsaw Brake Is Not Working
Why is my Stihl chainsaw brake not working?
Dirt and oil often jam the brake band. Open the side cover and clean out the gunk. If it is clean, check if the metal band is bent.
How do I test my Stihl chain brake?
Start the saw and rev it up. Push the hand guard forward. The chain should stop at once. If it spins, stop the saw now. It needs a fix before you cut any wood.
Can I fix a Stihl chain brake myself?
Yes, you can often fix it at home. Most times, it just needs a good clean. Remove the cover and scrape off the dirt. If parts are broken, buy a new kit to swap.
Why won’t my Stihl clutch cover fit?
The brake is likely “tripped” or locked. This happens if you take it off while the brake is on. Reset the lever with a wrench until it clicks. Then it will fit.
Is it safe to use a saw with no brake?
No, it is not safe at all. The brake stops kickback injuries. If your Stihl chainsaw brake is not working, do not use it. Fix it first to keep your hands safe.