Stihl Ms661 Ripping Intake Boots

[209CrownKing]

The 661 is a great saw but it has its fair share of issues. One of these issues is the intake boot tearing because the upper annular mount degrades and causes too much flex between the fuel tank and engine. If you don't catch it in time the intake boot will tear and cause a lean condition and eventually fry the top end. I would suggest to anyone out there with a 661 to swap their intake to the 660 boot. It's an accordion style boot and will allow for more flex and not tear as easily as the straight boot that comes stock on the 661. Also pay attention to the upper annular mount. Once they degrade there's nothing to cushion the bolt that holds the upper annular buffer in place. It will break the cup that the mount sits in and you will need a new case half. The aftermarket black annular mount is much better quality than the spongy soft orange the saw comes with. I would suggest replacing it when you do the intake.

 

[ZeroJunk]

The 661 is a great saw but it has its fair share of issues. One of these issues is the intake boot tearing because the upper annular mount degrades and causes too much flex between the fuel tank and engine. If you don't catch it in time the intake boot will tear and cause a lean condition and eventually fry the top end. I would suggest to anyone out there with a 661 to swap their intake to the 660 boot. It's an accordion style boot and will allow for more flex and not tear as easily as the straight boot that comes stock on the 661. Also pay attention to the upper annular mount. Once they degrade there's nothing to cushion the bolt that holds the upper annular buffer in place. It will break the cup that the mount sits in and you will need a new case half. The aftermarket black annular mount is much better quality than the spongy soft orange the saw comes with. I would suggest replacing it when you do the intake.

Not wanting a fight, keep your chain sharp

 

[209CrownKing]

Not wanting a fight, keep your chain sharp

Not sure what you mean by this. I repair saws and this a common theme I've seen amongst 661s that get used hard on a daily basis.

 

[stihltech]

Yes, keep it sharp and let the saw cut, not force it. I too have loggers (and Amish) using these and not tearing the boots.
It ain't an axe, it is a saw.
However, you solution don't sound bad.

 

[ZeroJunk]

Not sure what you mean by this. I repair saws and this a common theme I've seen amongst 661s that get used hard on a daily basis.

Well, if you work on other people's stuff you have no control over any treatment they get.

 

[Gord404]

Well, if you work on other people's stuff you have no control over any treatment they get.

you got that right