Correct file for Stihl MS-180 3\8 Pico chain?

[stihlalivekicking]

I'm in New Zealand. My Stihl MS-180 handbook says the correct file for the 3\8 Pico chain is 4mm or 5\32.
I think that's a bit small. Also, I notice from watching US videos about chainsaw sharpening that a larger size is more commonly used.
Advice would be appreciated.

 

[RedneckChainsawRepair]

If you using 3/8LP chain 5/32 is right file. What I use on my 050.

Unless you have that 043 stuff then 11/64. I dont know why that is as I use 5/32 on that too.

shown here in pic

 

[RedneckChainsawRepair]

Here is per stihl. They say 5/32

Chart says 5/32 too.

 

[stihlalivekicking]

Thanks for your informative reply. So my handbook is correct with 4mm. However, as I said earlier, I'm sure I've seen a few US chainsaw sharpening videos where they were using larger files than 5\32 on MS-180 saws. Perhaps they weren't 3\8 Pico chains? Actually, before I posted I tried a 5mm (13\64 is 5.159mm) file on an old chain and it seemed to work OK. It was certainly easier to shape the leading edge of the teeth than with the 5\32 (4mm) file, which I have to keep pressuring upwards to get the same effect. My supplier is sending me a couple of 3\16 (4.76mm) files to try. I'll report back.

 

[J D]

It's normal to have to pull up slightly as you sharpen to prevent the file dropping into the gullet too much. There are jugs & sharpening aids to help with this & overall consistency.
Depending on the particular chain sometimes the "required" file size isn't ideal & either a size up initially or a size smaller towards the end of the chains life can be preferable. If I was going to vary the file I'd try a 4.5mm, any larger than that & you're likely to have a hard time getting the top plate cutting angle right

 

[Michael E]

Two things to consider with a larger file: The angle that the shaving has to travel might be too steep to have a smooth cut with efficient transport of the chips out of the kerf. Also, as you keep filing the tooth and gullet down, a larger file will damage the drive link earlier. A 4mm file is indeed the correct size for 3/8 p or lp.

 

[Te Rei]

I am in NZ. I have that saw. I use 4mm. Also use the Stihl file guide. Good tool.