Replacing The Fuel Line And Filter In A Stihl 026 Chainsaw

The Stihl 026 chainsaw has two types of fuel lines: the older, straight line, and the newer, S-shaped line. The S-shaped line is longer and makes changing the fuel filter easier, but it requires users to drill out the tank opening to make it fit. The straight line is more difficult to replace filters with and may eventually shrink, causing the fuel pickup to lift off the bottom of the tank. Users can replace the straight line with the S-shaped line or use the fuel line from a Stihl 036, which fits the smaller tank hole and is longer, making filter replacement easier.

How to replace fuel line and filter on a Stihl 026 chainsaw

The newer S-shaped fuel line is longer and makes changing the filter easier

The Stihl 026 chainsaw has two different fuel lines. The newer S-shaped fuel line is longer and makes changing the filter easier. The older, shorter line has a straight design and a smaller grommet, which is easier to install and remove. However, the newer line's larger grommet makes it a bit more challenging to install, especially if you have an older generation tank.

To replace the fuel line and filter on your Stihl 026 chainsaw, you'll need to purchase a new fuel line and filter. The newer S-shaped fuel line is recommended as it is longer and makes changing the filter easier. You can find these parts at your local Stihl dealer or online. When purchasing, ensure the parts are compatible with your Stihl 026 model.

Once you have the necessary parts, follow these steps:

Remove the old fuel line and filter:

• Carefully disconnect the old fuel line from the chainsaw, taking note of its routing for reference during the new line installation.
• Remove the old fuel filter.

Install the new fuel line and filter:

• If your chainsaw has the older, straight fuel line, you may need to drill and enlarge the tank opening to accommodate the newer S-shaped line. Use a step bit and drill slowly, being careful not to make the hole too big or out of round, as this can cause a leak.
• Install the new S-shaped fuel line, ensuring it is securely connected and routed correctly.
• Attach the new fuel filter to the end of the fuel line. Use a good-quality filter, such as a Husky-like filter.

Refill the fuel tank and test the chainsaw to ensure proper functioning.

By following these steps and using the newer S-shaped fuel line, you will find it easier to change the fuel filter in your Stihl 026 chainsaw.

The original straight fuel line is too short and makes changing the filter difficult

The Stihl 026 chainsaw is known for having a fuel line that is too short from the factory, making it difficult to change the fuel filter. This is an issue that has been recognised by Stihl owners and mechanics alike. The straight fuel line used in the original design of the Stihl 026 is not only short but also difficult to work with when compared to the newer, longer, S-shaped fuel line used in the MS260 model.

The fuel filter in a chainsaw needs to be changed regularly as part of the machine's maintenance, and having a fuel line that is too short can make this routine task challenging. When replacing the fuel line, it is recommended to use a quality fuel line, such as the black Stihl line, to ensure a proper fit and avoid leaks.

To address the issue of the short fuel line in the Stihl 026, one option is to replace it with the newer MS260 line, which is longer and makes changing the fuel filter much easier. However, this modification requires drilling the tank opening to accommodate the larger grommet of the new fuel line. It is important to enlarge the hole gradually and carefully to avoid making it too big or out of round, which could result in leaks.

Another option to deal with the short fuel line is to add a guide wire through the line. This method involves pushing the guide wire through the tank, grabbing the fuel line, and pulling it through from the inside. It is important to note that the fuel filter should be attached to the line before attempting this method.

While the short fuel line in the original Stihl 026 design may pose a challenge when changing the fuel filter, it is possible to address this issue with the right tools and techniques. Regular maintenance, including fuel filter replacement, is crucial to keep your chainsaw running smoothly and avoid performance issues.

You may need to drill the tank opening to make the new fuel line fit

When replacing the fuel line and filter on a Stihl 026 chainsaw, you may encounter an issue where the new fuel line doesn't fit through the tank opening. This is because there are two different fuel lines for the 026 model, with the newer version featuring a larger grommet that needs to be inserted into the tank.

If you have the older style straight line and want to use the newer S-shaped line, you will need to drill the tank opening to make it larger so that the new fuel line can fit. This process requires careful drilling to gradually increase the hole size until the new fuel line fits snugly. It is important to go slowly and use a good-quality drill bit to avoid making the hole too big or out of round, which could result in a leak.

Using a quality fuel line, such as the black Stihl line, is recommended. Additionally, it is suggested to use a good filter, such as a Husky-like filter, to ensure the best performance and avoid leaks.

It is worth noting that some people prefer to use a guide wire when installing the new fuel line. This involves pushing the wire through the tank, grabbing the fuel line, and pulling it through after attaching the fuel filter.

The newer fuel line may require a larger hole in the tank

When replacing the fuel line and filter on a Stihl 026 chainsaw, it is important to note that there are two different fuel lines for this model, and the newer fuel line may require a larger hole in the tank. The original fuel line on the Stihl 026 is straight and shorter, while the newer fuel line is S-shaped and longer. This newer, longer line is easier to install and allows for easier changing of fuel filters.

If you are replacing the fuel line on your Stihl 026, it is recommended to use the newer, S-shaped line as it is a better design and will make filter changes easier. However, this newer line may not fit through the existing hole in the tank. To accommodate the larger grommet on the newer fuel line, you will need to enlarge the hole in the tank. This can be done with a step bit by hand, gradually increasing the hole size until the new fuel line fits snugly. It is important to go slowly and carefully when enlarging the hole to avoid making it too big or out of round, which could cause a leak.

Additionally, it is recommended to use a quality fuel line, such as the black Stihl line, and a good filter, such as a Husky-like filter. The OEM Stihl line is also recommended as the best option for a longer-lasting rubber quality.

The older straight fuel line is prone to shrinking and can cause the fuel pickup to lift off the bottom of the tank

The Stihl 026 chainsaw is a powerful tool, but like any machine, it requires regular maintenance to keep it in good working order. One common issue with older models of the Stihl 026 is a problem with the fuel line and filter. The original fuel line tends to be prone to shrinking over time, which can cause the fuel pickup to lift off the bottom of the tank. This can result in fuel leaks and affect the performance of the chainsaw.

If you notice that your Stihl 026's fuel filter is not lying flat on the bottom of the tank, or if the fuel line appears rotted or damaged, it's likely time to replace the fuel line and filter. This is a fairly common issue and can be addressed by switching to a newer, longer fuel line, which is S-shaped rather than straight. The newer fuel line allows for easier filter changes and better performance.

To replace the fuel line, you will need to purchase a suitable replacement, such as the MS260 line, which is designed to fit the Stihl 026. Be sure to also get a quality fuel filter to go with it. The process of replacing the fuel line involves enlarging the hole in the tank to accommodate the newer, larger fuel line. This can be done using a drill or a tapered reamer, but it is important to work slowly and carefully to avoid making the hole too big, which could lead to leaks.

It is recommended to have a range of drill bits or a tapered reamer to gradually increase the size of the hole until the new fuel line fits snugly. Silicone grease can also be used to help with the installation and protect the rubber grommet. Additionally, a guide wire can be fed through the fuel line to help pull it through the tank, with the fuel filter already attached. This can make the process of replacing the fuel line and filter easier.

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