Stihl 066 Service Manual

The Stihl 066 is a professional-grade chainsaw known for its power, durability, and performance in demanding forestry and logging applications. This service manual provides comprehensive information for maintenance, troubleshooting, repair, and overhaul procedures. It covers the engine, fuel system, ignition, clutch, chain brake, bar and chain, and all other major components. Below are key sections for safety, specifications, maintenance intervals, disassembly, assembly, and troubleshooting.

1. Features at a Glance 2. Safety Information 3. Specifications 4. Maintenance Schedule 5. Engine Service 6. Fuel System 7. Ignition System 8. Clutch & Chain Brake 9. Bar, Chain & Sprocket 10. Troubleshooting 11. Torque Specifications

Features at a Glance

Key components: High-performance two-stroke engine, Anti-Vibration System (AV), Decompression valve, Electronic ignition (CDI), Adjustable automatic oiler, Chain brake, Quickstop inertia system.

FeatureDescription
Engine Displacement91.6 cc (5.6 cu. in.)
Power OutputHigh torque for large diameter cutting
Anti-Vibration SystemReduces operator fatigue
Decompression ValveEasier starting
Ignition SystemElectronic CDI with advanced timing
Fuel SystemDiaphragm carburetor with manual and automatic choke
Oiling SystemAdjustable automatic chain oiler with manual override
Chain BrakeInertia-activated Quickstop system
Bar MountStihl 3005 mount pattern
Weight (powerhead)Approx. 7.5 kg (16.5 lbs)

Safety Information

Always prioritize safety when servicing the Stihl 066. Disconnect the spark plug boot before any work.

  1. Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): Wear safety glasses, gloves, and hearing protection.
  2. Work Area: Work in a clean, well-ventilated area away from sparks or open flame.
  3. Fuel Safety: Drain fuel tank before service. No smoking.
  4. Sharp Tools: Use proper tools; keep hands clear of chain and sharp edges.
  5. Pressurized Systems: Relieve fuel pressure before opening carburetor or fuel lines.

WARNING! Failure to follow safety procedures can result in serious injury or death. This manual is for qualified technicians.

Specifications

Maintenance Schedule

Regular maintenance is critical for performance and longevity.

IntervalTask
Daily / Before UseCheck chain tension, sharpness, and lubrication. Inspect for loose fasteners, damage. Clean air filter if needed.
Every 10 HoursClean spark arrestor screen (if equipped). Check clutch drum and sprocket for wear.
Every 20 HoursClean or replace air filter. Clean cooling fins. Check fuel filter.
Every 50 HoursReplace fuel filter. Clean carburetor external surfaces. Check spark plug condition and gap.
Every 100 HoursReplace spark plug. Clean exhaust port and muffler. Check cylinder compression. Inspect anti-vibration elements.
Annually or 500 HoursOverhaul inspection: Piston, rings, cylinder, crankshaft bearings, seals, fuel lines, impulse line.

Engine Service

Disassembly and assembly procedures for the engine block.

  1. Cylinder & Piston: Remove muffler, decomp valve, cylinder bolts. Inspect cylinder scoring, piston ring end gap, piston pin bearing.
  2. Crankshaft & Bearings: Requires splitting the crankcase. Check crankshaft runout, main bearing play, and seal surfaces.
  3. Seals: Replace crankshaft seals during major service. Use proper seal driver.
  4. Compression Test: Should be above 120 psi (8.3 bar) for a healthy engine.
  5. Reassembly: Use new gaskets. Apply appropriate sealant to crankcase halves. Torque fasteners to specification.

CAUTION! Label all parts and fasteners. Take photos during disassembly for reference.

Fuel System

Carburetor adjustment and fuel line replacement.

  1. Carburetor (Walbro HD): Adjust H (high speed), L (low speed), and LA (idle) screws. Initial settings: H - 1 turn open, L - 1 turn open, LA - 1 turn open. Fine-tune for smooth acceleration and top speed.
  2. Fuel Lines: Replace if cracked or hardened. Use Stihl fuel line kit. Ensure proper routing to avoid kinks.
  3. Fuel Filter: Located in tank. Replace by pulling through filler neck with wire hook.
  4. Impulse Line: Connects crankcase to carburetor pump diaphragm. Check for cracks and secure fit.

Tip: Use a pressure/vacuum tester to check carburetor diaphragms and inlet needle.

Ignition System

Testing and replacement of ignition components.

  1. Spark Plug: Check for fouling, correct gap. Replace if electrodes are worn.
  2. Ignition Module (CDI): Test with multimeter for primary and secondary coil resistance. Check air gap between flywheel and coil (0.3 mm / 0.012").
  3. Flywheel: Check for sheared key if timing is off. Remove with proper puller.
  4. Stop Switch: Test for continuity. Wire should break connection when switch is pressed.

WARNING! Never crank engine with spark plug removed and boot unattended – risk of CDI damage from open circuit.

Clutch & Chain Brake

Service of the centrifugal clutch and inertia brake system.

  1. Clutch Removal: Hold piston at Top Dead Center (TDC) with rope, remove clutch nut (left-hand thread).
  2. Clutch Shoes: Inspect for wear, cracking, or glazing. Replace as a set.
  3. Clutch Drum & Sprocket: Check for groove wear from chain. Replace if grooves are deep.
  4. Chain Brake Band: Inspect for wear and heat discoloration. Replace if thickness is below spec.
  5. Brake Mechanism: Clean and lubricate pivot points. Test engagement by striking front hand guard.

Bar, Chain & Sprocket

Maintenance of cutting components.

  1. Bar: Clean bar groove and oil holes. Dress rails with flat file if burred. Check for straightness and wear.
  2. Chain: Sharpen with correct file size (typically 7/32" for .404" pitch, 5/32" for 3/8" pitch). Maintain correct depth gauge setting.
  3. Sprocket (Rim or Spur): Replace rim sprocket when worn. Inspect spur sprocket for hooking.
  4. Chain Tension: Adjust so chain snaps back when pulled from bar rail. Never tighten on a hot chain.
  5. Oiling: Verify oil flow by running saw at high speed pointed at a light surface; look for oil spray.

Troubleshooting

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
Engine will not startNo spark, flooded, fuel issue, compressionCheck spark, plug wetness, fuel lines/filter, compression test.
Engine starts then diesFuel starvation, air leak, carb adjustmentCheck fuel vent, carb diaphragms, impulse line, crank seals. Adjust L screw.
Lacks power / bogs downClogged filter, exhaust screen, carb H setting, air leakClean air filter/spark arrestor. Adjust H screw. Pressure test engine.
Engine runs unevenly / surgesLean condition, fuel deliveryCheck for air leaks. Adjust L and H screws. Inspect fuel line for cracks.
Excessive vibrationAV buffers worn, unbalanced clutch, bent crankshaftReplace AV buffers. Inspect clutch shoes. Check crankshaft runout.
Chain does not oilClogged oil passages, faulty oil pump, wrong oilClean bar groove and oil holes. Test oil pump output. Use proper bar & chain oil.
Chain brake does not engageWorn brake band, dirty mechanism, broken springInspect band thickness. Clean and lubricate. Replace spring if broken.

Torque Specifications

Critical fastener torque values (use calibrated torque wrench).

ComponentThread SizeTorque (Nm)Torque (ft-lbs)
Cylinder NutsM820-22 Nm14.8-16.2 ft-lbs
Crankcase ScrewsM610-12 Nm7.4-8.9 ft-lbs
Clutch Nut (LH Thread)M14 x 1.045-50 Nm33.2-36.9 ft-lbs
Flywheel NutM12 x 1.2540-45 Nm29.5-33.2 ft-lbs
Spark PlugM14 x 1.2520-25 Nm14.8-18.4 ft-lbs
Bar Mounting NutsM812-14 Nm8.9-10.3 ft-lbs
Muffler ScrewsM54-5 Nm3.0-3.7 ft-lbs

Note: Apply thread locker where specified. Replace self-locking nuts.

Service Support: For genuine Stihl parts and technical bulletins, contact an authorized Stihl servicing dealer.

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