20% Off Our 12-Inch Chain Replacement for Stihl Chainsaw and Pole Pruner

12-inch replacement chain fitment overview

This 12-inch replacement chain is intended for select Stihl compact chainsaws and pole-pruner applications, including the MSA 120 C, MSA 140 C, MSA 160 C, MS 150 TC, MS 150 T C-E, MS 151 T C-E, and HT 103 Pole Pruner. If your machine is one of these models and it uses the matching 12-inch bar setup, this chain is a practical replacement when your original chain is dull, damaged, or stretched beyond adjustment.

It’s especially useful for light pruning, limbing, and arborist-style cutting where a short bar helps with control.

Will this chain fit your saw?

The safest way to confirm fitment is to match all four chain specs on your current setup:

• Bar length: 12 inches
• Pitch: must match your existing chain/bar
• Gauge: must match your bar groove
• Drive-link count: must match your current chain exactly

Even if two saws use a 12-inch bar, the chain still has to match the correct pitch, gauge, and drive-link count to fit and run properly. A chain that is close but not exact can cause poor cutting performance, derailment, or accelerated wear to the bar and sprocket.

According to the original listing, this replacement chain is designed for these Stihl models:

• MSA 120 C
• MSA 140 C
• MSA 160 C
• MS 150 TC
• MS 150 T C-E
• MS 151 T C-E
• HT 103 Pole Pruner

The source listing also references these part numbers:

• 71PM3-64
• 3670 005 0064

When checking your saw, compare the information stamped on the guide bar or printed in your owner’s manual with your existing chain packaging or part number. If your current chain or bar references one of the part numbers above and your saw is one of the listed models, that’s a strong indication this is the correct replacement.

A quick note on fitment: some models can be configured with different bar/chain combinations depending on market, year, or owner preference. That’s why matching the actual chain specs on your saw matters more than relying on model name alone.

Replacing the chain

Before working on your saw or pole pruner, remove the power source. On battery units, take out the battery. On gas models, make sure the engine is off and cool.

1. Loosen the side cover and back off the chain tension so the old chain can be removed easily.
2. Remove the old chain from the guide bar and drive sprocket, then inspect the bar groove and sprocket area for packed sawdust or oil residue.
3. Install the new chain around the sprocket and along the bar, making sure the cutter direction is correct. The cutting edges on the top of the bar should face forward.
4. Reinstall the side cover and lightly tension the chain until the drive links sit properly in the bar groove.
5. Set final chain tension so the chain is snug against the underside of the bar but can still be pulled by hand with a gloved hand.
6. Check chain oiling and recheck tension after the first few cuts, since a new chain can seat in and loosen slightly.

If the chain will not tension correctly, stop and verify that the bar length, pitch, gauge, and drive-link count match your setup.

Keeping it sharp

A short 12-inch chain cuts best when it stays sharp and properly tensioned. A few simple habits make a big difference:

• Touch up the cutters regularly instead of waiting until the chain is very dull. A lightly maintained chain cuts faster and puts less strain on the saw.
• Keep the chain out of dirt and debris. Even one cut into the ground can dull a sharp chain quickly.
• Maintain proper chain lubrication and tension. An under-oiled or loose chain wears faster and won’t cut as cleanly.

If you notice fine dust instead of chips, crooked cutting, or the need to force the saw through wood, it’s time to sharpen or replace the chain.

FAQ

Will this fit every Stihl saw with a 12-inch bar?

No. A 12-inch bar alone is not enough to confirm fit. Your saw must also use the same pitch, gauge, and drive-link count, and the listing specifically identifies the MSA 120 C, MSA 140 C, MSA 160 C, MS 150 TC, MS 150 T C-E, MS 151 T C-E, and HT 103 Pole Pruner.

Can I use this on a pole pruner as well as a chainsaw?

Yes, this chain is listed for the HT 103 Pole Pruner as well as the Stihl saw models above, provided your machine has the correct 12-inch bar setup and matching chain specifications.