Omar Khalid
Stihl chainsaws are known for their use of plastic parts, with some models featuring plastic crankcases. The clamshell design, commonly found in homeowner saws, has a plastic lower crankcase lined with metal crank journals and a cylinder head that cannot be removed without splitting the case. While the use of plastic in power tools may be controversial, Stihl's plastic components are made from good quality, glass-reinforced materials. Their homeowner saws, featuring plastic frames, are praised for their durability, and their pro saws, with metal crankcases, incorporate plastic handles and cylinder covers.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Crankcase design | Clamshell and vertical split case |
| Clamshell design | Upper half of the case integrated into the cylinder head |
| Attached with a horizontal split between the top half and the lower case | |
| Lower case | Usually made of plastic |
| Some older models have a separate metal lower case that fits in the plastic housing | |
| Cylinder head | Cannot be removed without splitting the case |
| Vertical split case | Two-piece case split vertically perpendicular to the crank |
| Separate cylinder head that can be removed without splitting the case | |
| Typical construction of a commercial-grade saw | |
| Plastic | Used in the frame, handles, cylinder covers, etc. |
| Glass-reinforced where needed |
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What You'll Learn
Stihl chainsaws with plastic crankcases
Stihl chainsaws are available in two main design types: Clamshell and vertical split case. The Clamshell design features a plastic lower crankcase lined with metal crank journals and an integrated upper case and cylinder head. This design is typically found in homeowner saws and is less expensive than the vertical split case design. The vertical split case design, on the other hand, has a two-piece case that is split vertically perpendicular to the crank, with a separate cylinder head. This type of design is more common in commercial-grade saws.
Stihl's use of plastic in their chainsaw design has been a topic of discussion among users. Some users have expressed disappointment in the use of plastic parts, concerned about their durability, especially when exposed to oils, heat, and long-term stresses. However, others have defended Stihl's use of plastic, stating that it is high-quality, glass-reinforced plastic that is durable and takes impact better than other materials. Stihl's homeowner saws, such as the MS250, are known to be reliable, lightweight, and powerful, and their plastic handles provide anti-vibration features.
While Stihl uses plastic in some parts of their chainsaws, it is important to note that they also utilise other materials such as aluminium and steel. The engine, for example, is typically made of aluminium and steel, ensuring its durability and performance. Additionally, Stihl offers a range of replacement parts for their chainsaws, including crankcase components, which can be purchased separately to extend the life of the tool.
Overall, Stihl chainsaws with plastic crankcases, such as the Clamshell design, offer a combination of durability, functionality, and ease of use for homeowners. While some users may have concerns about the use of plastic, Stihl's choice of materials and construction methods appear to result in reliable and long-lasting tools for their intended audience.
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Plastic crankcases on Stihl 440, 445, 450, 455, 460 models
Stihl 440, 445, 450, 455, and 460 models are known to have plastic crankcases. The "clamshell" design, where the upper half of the case is integrated into the cylinder head, is attached with a horizontal split between the top half and the plastic lower case. The crank, journals, and cylinder head are made of metal. This design has been around for 30+ years and is known to be durable.
The Stihl 440 model features a clutch PTO right-side crankcase half, which is in good used shape and fits the Stihl MS 440 Magnum. The Stihl 441 model also has a similar crankcase half with a guide bar bolt set, which is in good working condition.
The Stihl 450 model, also known as the 450 Rancher, features the same basic engine as the regular 450 and the 440, 445, 455, and 460 models, with variations in displacement. It has a "clamshell" design with a plastic lower case.
The Stihl 460 model, also referred to as the MS 460 or MS 460 Magnum, has a left flywheel side crankcase half made of plastic. It is in good used shape and fits the Stihl MS460 and MS 460.
The Stihl 455 model is mentioned alongside the 460 model in a list of compatible parts for Husqvarna chainsaws, but specific details about its crankcase are not provided.
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Plastic in Stihl products: good quality material
Stihl uses plastic in its products to make them lightweight and ergonomic. The company manufactures almost all of its plastic parts in-house, including battery covering hoods, hedge trimmer handles, and chainsaw housing parts. Stihl uses injection moulding to produce these parts, processing around 4,500 tons of plastic each year. The plastic source material comes in four colours: natural (for internal components), black, grey, and Stihl orange.
Stihl uses mostly glass fibre-reinforced plastics to give its parts more strength. The company also recycles excess glass-reinforced plastic produced during the injection moulding process, ensuring that its handles are made with 60% new material and 40% recycled material.
Some Stihl chainsaws feature a clamshell design, where the lower half of the crankcase is made of plastic, while the crank, journals, and cylinder head are metal. This design has been used for over 30 years and is known for its durability. While the plastic crankcase may be more challenging to rebuild than metal alternatives, it is still a reliable and long-lasting option for consumers.
In addition to plastic, Stihl also uses other materials such as aluminium and magnesium for its crankcase assemblies. The specific material used can vary across different models, such as the Stihl MS170, which features a magnesium crankcase.
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Stihl's plastic clamshell design
The plastic clamshell design is usually implemented in consumer-grade saws, while the vertical split case is more common in commercial-grade saws. The vertical split case features a two-piece case that is split vertically perpendicular to the crank, with a separate cylinder head that can be removed without splitting the case.
The plastic clamshell design has been around for 30+ years, and most people never have a problem with it. It is durable and will probably last a lifetime of normal use. However, it is not as easy to rebuild compared to commercial models.
Some services are easier with a clamshell design, such as bearing replacement, while some are harder, like pulling the cylinder. Additionally, the crankshaft seals and bearings may not last as long on a clamshell engine.
Overall, Stihl's plastic clamshell design is a popular and reliable choice for homeowner and consumer-grade chainsaws, offering ease of use and durability for normal applications.
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Plastic parts on Stihl saws
Stihl is a manufacturer of chainsaws and other power tools. The company offers a wide range of parts for its products, including both genuine Stihl parts and aftermarket options.
Some Stihl chainsaws feature a clamshell design, in which the upper half of the case is integrated into the cylinder head. This type of design typically features a plastic lower case half, which is lined with metal crank journals. The cylinder head cannot be removed without splitting the case. This design is commonly found on consumer-grade saws.
In contrast, commercial-grade saws often feature a vertical split-case design, where the case is split vertically perpendicular to the crank. This design allows for the removal of the cylinder head without splitting the case.
The use of plastic in the lower crankcase is a common feature in modern chainsaws, and it is worth noting that Stihl recommends using only Stihl replacement parts for their equipment to ensure optimal performance and longevity.
Aftermarket parts for Stihl chainsaws are also available from third-party vendors, offering a range of options to maintain and enhance the performance of Stihl power tools. These parts include chainsaw chains, carburetor kits, trimmer heads, mower blades, and more.
Overall, while Stihl does incorporate plastic components in some of their chainsaw designs, the company also utilizes metal parts to ensure durability and performance. The specific materials used may vary depending on the model and design type.
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Frequently asked questions
Yes, Stihl uses plastic in their chainsaw designs, including the crank case.
Stihl chainsaws typically have one of two designs: Clamshell or vertical split case. The Clamshell design has an upper half integrated into the cylinder head, with the lower case usually made of plastic. The vertical split case has a two-piece case that is split vertically with a separate cylinder head.
The Stihl 450 Rancher uses the Clamshell design, as do the 440, 445, 455, and 460 models.
Some users have expressed concerns about the durability of plastic parts, especially when exposed to oils and heat over long periods. However, others have noted that the plastic used by Stihl is of good quality and is glass-reinforced where needed.
Plastic parts can make the chainsaws lighter and improve their anti-vibration features. Plastic is also better for impact resistance and is commonly used for guards and handles.
