Stihl MS 171, MS 181, MS 211 Instruction Manual

STIHL MS 171, 181, 211

Instruction Manual2 - 44
English
Contents
1 Guide to Using this Manual.........................2
2 Safety Precautions......................................3
3 Reactive Forces.......................................... 7
4 Working Techniques................................... 8
5 Cutting Attachment................................... 15
6 Mounting the Bar and Chain (side chain ten‐
sioner)....................................................... 15
7 Mounting the Bar and Chain (quick chain
tensioner).................................................. 16
sioner)....................................................... 18
9 Tensioning the Saw Chain (quick chain ten‐
sioner)....................................................... 18
10 Checking Chain Tension...........................19
11 Fuel........................................................... 19
12 Fueling...................................................... 20
13 Chain Lubricant.........................................23
14 Filling Chain Oil Tank................................24
15 Checking Chain Lubrication...................... 24
16 Chain Brake.............................................. 24
17 Winter Operation.......................................25
18 Starting / Stopping the Engine.................. 26
19 Operating Instructions...............................30
20 Taking Care of the Guide Bar................... 31
21 Shroud...................................................... 31
22 Air Filter System........................................31
23 Cleaning the Air Filter............................... 32
24 Adjusting the Carburetor........................... 32
25 Spark Arresting Screen in Muffler............. 33
26 Spark Plug................................................ 34
27 Engine Running Behavior......................... 34
28 Storing the Machine.................................. 34
29 Checking and Replacing the Chain
Sprocket....................................................35
30 Maintaining and Sharpening the Saw Chain
.................................................................. 36
31 Maintenance and Care..............................39
32 Main Parts.................................................41
33 Specifications............................................41
34 Ordering Spare Parts................................ 43
35 Maintenance and Repairs......................... 43
36 Disposal.................................................... 43
37 EC Declaration of Conformity................... 44
Dear Customer,
Thank you for choosing a quality engineered STIHL product.
It has been built using modern production techni‐ ques and comprehensive quality assurance. Every effort has been made to ensure your satis‐ faction and trouble-free use of the product.
Please contact your dealer or our sales company if you have any queries concerning this product.
Your
Dr. Nikolas Stihl

1 Guide to Using this Manual

This Instruction Manual refers to a STIHL chain saw, also called a machine in this Instruction Manual.

1.1 Pictograms

Pictograms that appear on the machine are explained in this Instruction Manual.
Depending on the machine and equipment ver‐ sion, the following pictograms may appear on the machine.
Fuel tank; fuel mixture of gasoline and engine oil
Tank for chain oil; chain oil
Engage and release chain brake
Coasting brake
Direction of chain travel
Ematic; chain oil flow adjustment
Tension saw chain
Intake air baffle: winter operation
Intake air baffle: summer operation
Handle heating
Actuate decompression valve
Actuate manual fuel pump
Original Instruction Manual
0000008276_005_GB
Printed on chlorine-free paper
Printing inks contain vegetable oils, paper can be recycled.
© ANDREAS STIHL AG & Co. KG 2021
0458-533-8321-E. VA0.F21.
2 0458-533-8321-E

2 Safety Precautions English

1.2 Symbols in text

WARNING
Warning where there is a risk of an accident or personal injury or serious damage to property.
NOTICE
Caution where there is a risk of damaging the machine or its individual components.

1.3 Engineering improvements

STIHL's philosophy is to continually improve all of its products. For this reason we may modify the design, engineering and appearance of our products periodically.
Therefore, some changes, modifications and improvements may not be covered in this man‐ ual.
2 Safety Precautions
Special safety precautions must be observed to reduce the risk of per‐ sonal injury when working with a chain saw because of the very high chain speed and very sharp cutters.
It is important that you read the instruction manual before first use and keep it in a safe place for future reference. Non-observance of the instruction manual may result in seri‐ ous or even fatal injury.

2.1 General

Observe all applicable local safety regulations, standards and ordinances.
The use of noise emitting power tools may be restricted to certain times by national or local regulations.
If you have not used this model before: Have your dealer or other experienced user show you how to operate your machine or attend a special course in its operation.
Minors should never be allowed to use a chain saw.
Keep bystanders, especially children, and ani‐ mals away from the work area.
The user is responsible for avoiding injury to third parties or damage to their property.
Do not lend or rent your chain saw without the instruction manual. Be sure that anyone using it
understands the information contained in this manual.
To operate a chain saw you must be rested, in good physical condition and mental health. If you have any condition that might be aggravated by strenuous work, check with your doctor before operating a chain saw.
Do not operate the chain saw if you are under the influence of any substance (drugs, alcohol) which might impair vision, dexterity or judgment.
To reduce the risk of accidents or injury, put off the work in poor weather conditions (rain, snow, ice, wind).
Persons with pacemakers only: The ignition sys‐ tem of your chain saw produces an electromag‐ netic field of a very low intensity. This field may interfere with some pacemakers. To reduce health risks, STIHL recommends that persons with pacemakers consult their physician and the pacemaker manufacturer before operating this power tool.

2.2 Intended use

The machine may only be used to saw wood and wooden objects.
Do not use the machine for any other purpose – risk of accidents!
Do not modify the machine in any way – this may increase the risk of personal injury. STIHL excludes all liability for personal injury and dam‐ age to property caused while using unauthorised attachments.

2.3 Clothing and Equipment

Wear proper protective clothing and equipment.
Clothing must be sturdy and snug-fit‐ ting, but allow complete freedom of movement. Wear snug fitting clothing with cut-retardant pads – no loose-fit‐ ting jacket.
Avoid clothing that could get caught on branches, brush or moving parts of the machine. Do not wear a scarf, necktie or jewellery. Tie up and confine long hair (headscarf, cap, hard hat, etc.).
Wear suitable safety shoes – with cut­retardant material, non-slip soles and steel toe caps.
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001BA115 KN
English 2 Safety Precautions
WARNING
To reduce the risk of eye injuries, wear tight-fitting safety goggles con‐ forming to standard EN 166 or a face shield. Make sure that the safety gog‐ gles and the face shield fit correctly.
Wear "personal" hearing protection – for exam‐ ple, ear defenders.
Wear a hard hat wherever there is any risk of falling objects.
Wear sturdy protective gloves made of a resistant material (e.g. leather).
STIHL can supply a comprehensive range of per‐ sonal protective equipment.

2.4 Transporting

Before any transport – even over short distances – switch off the machine, engage the chain brake and attach the chain scabbard. This avoids the risk of the saw chain starting unintentionally.
Always carry the chain saw by the handle – with the hot muffler away from your body, the guide bar must point to the rear. To avoid serious burn injuries, avoid touching hot parts of the machine, especially the surface of the muffler.
In vehicles: Properly secure your saw to prevent turnover, fuel spillage and damage.

2.5 Cleaning

Clean plastic parts with a cloth. Harsh detergents can damage the plastic.
Clean the dust and dirt off the machine – do not use any grease solvents for this purpose.
Clean the ventilation slots if necessary.
Do not use a high-pressure cleaner to clean the machine. The hard jet of water can damage parts of the machine.

2.6 Accessories

Only use those tools, guide bars, chains, chain sprockets, accessories or technically equivalent components that have been approved by STIHL for this machine. If you have any questions in this respect, consult a servicing dealer. Use only high quality tools and accessories. Otherwise, there may be a risk of accidents and damage to the machine.
STIHL recommends the use of genuine STIHL tools, guide bars, chains, chain sprockets and accessories. They are specifically designed to match your model and meet your performance requirements.

2.7 Refuelling

Gasoline is an extremely flammable fuel – keep clear of naked flames and fire – do not spill any fuel – no smok‐ ing.
Switch off the engine before refuelling.
Never refuel the machine while the engine is still hot – the fuel may spill over – risk of fire!
Open the fuel filler cap carefully so that any excess pressure is relieved gradually and fuel does not splash out.
The machine may only be refuelled in a well ven‐ tilated place. Clean the machine immediately if fuel is spilled. Do not spill fuel over your clothing – contaminated clothing must be changed imme‐ diately.
The machines can be equipped with the follow‐ ing filler caps as standard:
Cliplock filler cap (bayonet-type)
Place the cliplock filler cap (bayonet­type) in position, turn as far as stop and fold the cliplock down.
This helps reduce the risk of unit vibrations caus‐ ing an incorrectly tightened filler cap to loosen or come off and spill quantities of fuel.
Look out for leaks! Never start the engine if fuel has been spilled or is leaking – Fatal burns may result!

2.8 Before Starting Work

Check that your saw is properly assembled and in good condition – refer to appropriate chapters in the instruction manual.
Check the fuel system for leaks, paying spe‐
cial attention to visible parts such as the tank
4 0458-533-8321-E
001BA087 LÄ
2 Safety Precautions English
cap, hose connections and the manual fuel pump (on machines so equipped). If there are any leaks or damage, do not start the engine – risk of fire. Have your saw repaired by a serv‐ icing dealer before using it again. Check operation of chain brake, front hand
guard Correctly mounted guide bar
Correctly tensioned chain
The trigger and trigger lockout must move
freely and spring back to the idle position when they are released. Master Control lever must move easily to
STOP, 0 or Check that the spark plug boot is secure – a
loose boot may cause arcing that could ignite combustible fumes and cause a fire. Never attempt to modify the controls or safety
devices in any way. Keep the handles dry and clean – free from oil
and dirt – for safe control of the saw. Make sure there is sufficient fuel and chain oil
in the tanks.
To reduce the risk of personal injury, do not operate your saw if it is damaged or not properly assembled.

2.9 Starting the chain saw

Always work on a level surface. Ensure a firm and secure footing. Hold the machine securely – the chain must not touch any objects or the floor – danger of injury due to the rotating saw chain.
Your chain saw is a one-person saw. Do not allow other persons to be in the working area – not even while starting.
Do not start the chain saw if the chain is in a cut.
Move at least 3 meters away from the place where the machine was refuelled and never start the motor in enclosed spaces.
Lock the chain with the chain brake before start‐ ing – risk of injury due to rotating chain!
Do not drop-start the engine – start as described in the Instruction Manual.

2.10 During operation

Ensure you always have a firm and safe footing. Take special care when the bark is wet – danger of slipping!
Always hold the chain saw firmly with both hands: Right hand on the rear handle – even if you are left-handed. To ensure reliable control, wrap your thumbs tightly around the handlebar and handle.
In the event of impending danger or in an emer‐ gency, switch off the engine immediately by mov‐ ing the Master Control lever / stop switch to STOP, 0 or .
Never let the machine run unattended.
Exercise caution with slippery surfaces, water, snow, ice, steep slopes, uneven ground or green wood that has just been stripped of its bark – danger of slipping!
Use caution with tree stumps, roots, ditches – danger of stumbling!
Do not work alone – keep within calling distance of others who are trained in emergency proce‐ dures and can provide help in an emergency. Helpers at the cutting site must also wear protec‐ tive clothing (helmet!) and stand well clear of the branches being cut.
More care and attention than usual are required when wearing ear protection, as warning sounds (shouts, beeps, etc.) cannot be heard properly.
Take a break in good time to avoid tiredness or exhaustion – risk of accidents!
Dust (e. g., sawdust), fumes and smoke pro‐ duced while using the machine may be hazard‐ ous to health. If dust is generated, wear a dust mask.
When the engine is running: Note that the saw chain continues to rotate for a short period after you let go of the throttle trigger – coasting effect.
No smoking when working with or near the chain saw - risk of fire! Combustible fuel vapour may escape from the fuel system.
0458-533-8321-E 5
English 2 Safety Precautions
Examine the saw chain periodically at short inter‐ vals and as soon as you note any tangible changes:
Switch off the engine; wait until the saw chain
is stationary Check condition and secure fitting
Check sharpness
Never touch the saw chain when the engine is running. If the saw chain becomes jammed by an object, switch off the engine immediately before attempting to remove the object – risk of injury!
Always turn off the engine before leaving the machine unattended.
To change the saw chain, switch off the engine. Risk of injury from the motor starting unintention‐ ally!
Keep easily combustible materials (e. g., wood chips, bark, dry grass, fuel) away from hot exhaust gases and hot mufflers – risk of fire! Mufflers with catalytic converters can become especially hot.
Never work without chain lubrication – monitor the oil level in the oil tank. Stop work immediately if the oil level in the oil tank is too low and top up with chain oil – see also "Topping up with chain oil" and "Check chain lubrication".
If the machine is subjected to unusually high loads for which it was not designed (e. g., heavy impact or a fall), always check that it is in good condition before continuing work – see also "Before starting work".
Check the fuel system for leaks and make sure the safety devices are working properly. Never continue using a machine that is not in perfect working order. In case of doubt, have the unit checked by your servicing dealer.
Check for correct idling, so that the saw chain stops moving when the throttle trigger is released. Check the idle setting regularly and correct when possible. Have the machine repaired by a STIHL servicing dealer if the saw chain still continues to move during idling.
The chain saw produces poisonous exhaust gases as soon as the engine starts. These gases may be colour‐ less and odourless and may contain unburnt hydrocarbons and benzene. Never work with the machine indoors or in poorly ventilated areas, even if your machine is equipped with a cata‐ lytic converter.
Ensure proper ventilation when working in trenches, hollows or other confined locations – risk of fatal injury from breathing toxic fumes!
If you feel sick, have a headache, vision prob‐ lems (e. g., your field of vision gets smaller), hearing problems, dizziness or inability to con‐ centrate, stop work immediately. Such symptoms may be caused by an excessively high concen‐ tration of exhaust emissions – risk of accident!

2.11 After finishing work

Switch off the motor, engage the chain brake and attach the chain scabbard.

2.12 Storage

When the machine is not in use, it should be stored in such a way that no-one is endangered. Secure the machine against unauthorised use.
Store the machine in a safe, dry room.

2.13 Vibrations

Prolonged use of the power tool may result in vibration-induced circulation problems in the hands (whitefinger disease).
No general recommendation can be given for the length of usage because it depends on several factors.
The period of usage is prolonged by:
Hand protection (wearing warm gloves)
Work breaks
The period of usage is shortened by:
Any personal tendency to suffer from poor cir‐
culation (symptoms: frequently cold fingers, tingling sensations). Low outside temperatures.
The force with which the handles are held (a
tight grip restricts circulation).
Continual and regular users should monitor closely the condition of their hands and fingers. If any of the above symptoms appear (e.g. tingling sensation in fingers), seek medical advice.

2.14 Maintenance and repairs

Always switch off the engine before any repair, cleaning or maintenance work and any work on the chain. Risk of injury if the engine starts inad‐ vertently!
Exception: adjustment of carburettor and idle speed.
6 0458-533-8321-E
001BA036 KN
001BA257 KN

3 Reactive Forces English

The machine must be serviced regularly. Do not attempt any maintenance or repair work not described in the Instruction Manual. All other work should be carried out by a servicing dealer.
STIHL recommends that maintenance and repair work be carried out only by authorised STIHL dealers. STIHL dealers receive regular training and are supplied with technical information.
Use only high-quality spare parts. Otherwise, there may be a risk of accidents and damage to the machine. If you have any questions in this respect, consult a servicing dealer.
Do not modify the machine in any way – this may increase the risk of personal injury –risk of acci‐ dents!
To reduce the risk of fire due to ignition outside the cylinder, move the master control level to STOP, 0 or before turning the engine over on the starter when the spark plug boot is removed or the spark plug is unscrewed!
Do not service or store the machine near a naked flame – risk of fire due to the fuel.
Check fuel cap regularly for tightness.
Use only spark plugs that are in perfect condition and have been approved by STIHL – see "Speci‐ fications".
Check ignition lead (insulation in good condition, secure connection).
Check that the muffler is in perfect working con‐ dition.
Do not use the machine if the muffler is damaged or missing – risk of fire, damage to hearing!
Never touch a hot muffler – risk of burns!
The condition of the anti-vibration elements influ‐ ences vibration behaviour – inspect anti-vibration elements periodically.
Inspect chain catcher – replace if damaged.
Switch off the engine
To check the chain tension
To retension the chain
To replace the chain
For remedying malfunctions
Observe sharpening instructions – for safe and proper handling, always keep the chain and guide bar in flawless condition. Keep the chain properly sharpened, tensioned and well lubrica‐ ted.
Change chain, guide bar and chain sprocket in due time.
Regularly check that the clutch drum is in perfect working condition.
Always store fuel and chain lubricant only in the specified type of containers and ensure they are correctly labelled. Store in a dry, cool and secure place protected against light and sunlight.
In the event of a chain brake malfunction, switch off the machine immediately – risk of injury! Con‐ sult a servicing dealer – do not use the machine until the malfunction has been remedied, see "Chain brake".
3 Reactive Forces
The most common reactive forces that occur dur‐ ing cutting are: kickback, pushback and pull-in.

3.1 Dangers of kickback

Kickback can result in serious or fatal injury.
(Kickback) occurs when the saw is suddenly thrown up and back in an uncontrolled arc towards the operator.

3.2 Kickback occurs if, e. g.,

when the upper quadrant of the bar nose unin‐
tentionally contacts wood or another solid
0458-533-8321-E 7
001BA037 KN
A
001BA038 KN
B

English 4 Working Techniques

object, e.g. when another limb is touched acci‐ dentally during limbing. when the chain at the nose of the guide bar is
pinched in the cut.

3.3 Quickstop chain brake:

This device reduces the risk of injury in certain situations – it cannot prevent kickback. When activated, the chain brake stops the saw chain within a fraction of a second – see the section "Saw chain" in this Instruction Manual.
the chain pulls the saw forward – risk, always engage the spiked bumper securely in the tree or limb.
to reduce this

3.6 Pushback (B)

3.4 To reduce the risk of kickback

Work cautiously and avoid situations which
could cause kickback. Hold the saw firmly with both hands and main‐
tain a secure grip. always cut at full throttle.
Be aware of the location of the guide bar nose
at all times. do not cut with the bar nose.
Take special care with small, tough limbs, they
may catch the chain. never cut several limbs at once.
do not overreach.
never cut above shoulder height.
Use extreme caution when re-entering a previ‐
ous cut. Do not attempt plunge cuts if you are not
experience in this cutting technique. be alert for shifting of the log or other forces
that may cause the cut to close and pinch the chain. always cut with a correctly sharpened, prop‐
erly tensioned chain – the depth gauge setting must not be too large. Use a low kickback chain and a narrow radius
guide bar.

3.5 Pull-in (A)

Pushback occurs when the chain on the top of the bar is suddenly pinched, caught or encoun‐ ters a foreign object in the wood. The reaction of the chain drives the saw straight back toward the operator – to avoid this risk:
Be alert to situations that may cause the top of
the guide bar to be pinched Do not twist the guide bar in the cut

3.7 Exercise extreme caution

with leaners
with trees that have fallen unfavorably
between other trees and are under strain when working in blowdown areas.
In these cases, do not use a chain saw – use a hoist, winch or drag line instead.
Pull out exposed and cleared logs. Select clear area for cutting.
Deadwood (dry, decayed or rotted wood) repre‐ sents a considerable risk that is difficult to assess. Identifying the extent of the dangers is complicated, if not impossible. Use aids such as a cable winch or tractor in such cases.
When felling in the vicinity of roads, railways, power lines, etc., take extra precautions. If nec‐ essary, inform the police, utility company or rail‐ way authority.
4 Working Techniques
Sawing and felling work, including all related work (plunge cutting, limbing, etc.) may only be carried out by persons who have been specially trained and instructed. Persons who are not
Pull-in occurs when the chain on the bottom of the bar is suddenly pinched, caught or encoun‐ ters a foreign object in the wood. The reaction of
8 0458-533-8321-E
experienced chain saw users should not carry out any such work – increased risk of accidents!
001BA082 KN
001BA033 KN
4 Working Techniques
English
Country-specific legislation on felling technique must be complied with during felling work.

4.1 Sawing

chain saw in the vicinity of easily combustible materials, dry plants or scrub. It is mandatory that you ask the responsible forestry office about the current fire hazard.
Do not operate your saw with the starting throttle lock engaged. Engine speed cannot be control‐ led with the throttle trigger in this position.
Work calmly and carefully – in daylight conditions and only when visibility is good. Ensure you do not endanger others – stay alert at all times.
It is advisable for first-time users to practice cut‐ ting logs on a sawbuck – see "Sawing thin wood".
Use the shortest possible guide bar: The chain, guide bar and chain sprocket must match each other and your saw.
If on a slope, stand on the uphill side of the log. Watch out for rolling logs.
When working at heights:
Always use a lift bucket
Never use the machine while standing on a
ladder or in a tree Never work on an insecure support
Never work above shoulder height
Never use the machine with just one hand
Begin cutting with the saw at full throttle and engage the spiked bumper firmly in the wood, and then continue cutting.
Position the saw so that your body is clear of the cutting attachment.
Always pull the saw out of the cut with the chain running.
Use your chain saw for cutting only. It is not designed for prying or shoveling away limbs, roots or other objects.
Do not underbuck freely hanging limbs.
Be careful when cutting scrub and young trees. Thin shoots can be scooped up by the chain saw and hurled towards the user.
Be careful when cutting splintered wood – Risk of injury from ejected pieces of wood!
Make sure your saw does not touch any foreign materials: Stones, nails, etc. may be flung off and damage the saw chain. The chain saw may kick back unexpectedly – risk of accident!
If a rotating saw chain hits a stone or another hard object, sparks may be generated which may ignite easily flammable materials under certain conditions. Also dried-out plants and brushwood are combustible, above all in hot and dry weather. If there is a risk of fire, do not use the
Never work without the spiked bumper because the saw may pull you forwards and off balance. Always hold the spiked bumper securely against the tree or limb.
At the end of the cut, the chain saw is no longer supported by the cutting attachment in the cut. The chain saw's weight must be borne by the user – risk of loss of control!
Sawing thin wood:
Use a sturdy and stable support – sawhorse.
Never hold the log with your leg or foot.
never allow another person to hold the log or
help in any other way.
Limbing
use a low kickback chain.
Work with the saw supported wherever possi‐
ble. do not stand on the log while limbing it.
do not cut with the bar nose.
watch for limbs which are under tension.
never cut several limbs at once.
Lying or standing logs under tension:
Always make the cuts in the correct order (first compression side (1), then tension side (2)), oth‐
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1
001BA151 KN
2
1
001BA152 KN
2
001BA189 KN
001BA088 LÄ
2
/
1
2
1 1
/
1
2
001BA040 KN
B
B
English 4 Working Techniques
erwise the cutting attachment may stick in the cut or kick back – risk of injury!
► Make relieving cut at the compression side (1) ► Make bucking cut at the tension side (2)
Be wary of pushback when making bucking cut from the bottom upwards (underbuck).
NOTICE
Do not cut a lying log at a point where it is touch‐ ing the ground because the saw chain will other‐ wise be damaged.
Ripping:

4.2 Preparing for felling

Check that there are no other persons in the fell‐ ing area – other than helpers.
Make sure no-one is endangered by the falling tree – the noise of your engine may drown any warning calls.
Maintain a distance of at least 2 1/2 tree lengths from the next felling site.
Determining direction of fall and escape path
Select gap in stand into which you want the tree to fall.
Pay special attention to the following points:
The natural inclination of the tree
Unusually heavy limb structure, asymmetrical
growth, damage to tree The wind direction and speed – do not fell in
high winds Direction of slope
Neighboring trees
Snow load
Take the general condition of the tree into
account – be especially careful with trunk damage or deadwood (brittle, rotten or dead wood)
Sawing technique without use of the spiked bumper – risk of pull-in – position the guide bar at as shallow an angle as possible – be especially careful – increased risk of kickback!
10 0458-533-8321-E
A Direction of fall
B Escape path (escape routes)
Establish escape paths for each worker –
approx. 45° diagonally opposite to the direc‐ tion of fall
001BA146 KN
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C
C
001BA153 KN
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4 Working Techniques English
Clear escape paths, eliminate obstacles
Put down tools and equipment at a safe dis‐
tance – but not on the escape paths When felling, stand only to the side of the fall‐
Determine direction of fall with gunning sight on cover and fan housing
ing trunk and only move back laterally onto the escape path Plan escape paths on slopes parallel to the
slope When walking away along the escape path,
watch out for falling limbs and watch the top of the tree.
Preparing work area at base of tree
First clear the tree base and work area from
interfering limbs and brush to provide a secure footing. Carefully clear the base of the trunk (e.g., with
an axe) – sand, stones and other foreign objects will blunt the saw chain
Your chainsaw has a gunning sight on the cover and fan housing. Use this gunning sight.
Making the felling notch
When making a felling notch, align the chainsaw so that the notch lies at a right angle to the direc‐ tion of fall.
During the procedure, various sequences are permitted for making a felling notch with a bottom (horizontal) cut and top (angled) cut – comply with national legislation regarding felling techni‐ que. ► Make a bottom (horizontal) cut ► Make the top (angled) cut approx. 45°‑ 60° to
the bottom cut
Remove largest buttresses: first the largest
buttress – saw first vertically, then horizontally
Checking the direction of fall
– only if the tree is in sound condition

4.3 Felling notch

Preparing the felling notch
► Insert the chainsaw with guide bar in the bot‐
tom of the felling notch. The gunning sight must point in the planned direction of fall – if necessary, correct direction of fall by re-cutting
The felling notch (C) determines the direction of
the felling notch.
fall.
Important:
Make a felling notch at right angle to direction
of fall Saw as close to the ground as possible
Cut to a depth of approx. 1/5 to 1/3 of the
diameter of the trunk
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001BA150 KN
001BA259 KN
G
E
C
C
Ø
1/10
001BA269 KN
3.
1.
2.
001BA270 KN
English 4 Working Techniques
With rotten trunks, leave a wider strip

4.4 Sapwood cuts

Plunge cutting
For relieving cuts during shortening
For wood carving
Sapwood cuts in long-fibered softwood help pre‐ vent sapwood splintering when the tree falls. Make cuts at both sides of the trunk at same height as bottom of felling notch to a depth of about 1/10 of trunk diameter. On large diameter trees, cut to no more than width of guide bar.
Do not make sapwood cuts if wood is diseased.

4.5 Basic information on felling cut

Basic dimensions
► Use a low kickback saw chain and proceed
with special care
1.Begin cut by applying the lower portion of the guide bar nose – do not use upper portion because of risk of kickback. Cut at full strength until the depth of the kerf is twice the width of the guide bar2.Swing the machine slowly into the plunge cutting position – risk of kickback and pushback!3.Make the plunge cut very carefully. Risk of pushback.
The felling notch (C) determines the direction of fall.
The hinge (D) functions like a real hinge to guide the tree to the ground.
Width of hinge: approx. 1/10 of the trunk diam‐
eter Never saw through the hinge while felling –
otherwise the tree will fall in a direction other than the one planned – risk of accident! With rotten trunks, leave a wider hinge
The tree is felled with the felling cut (E).
Cut horizontally
1/10 (at least 3 cm) of tree diameter higher
than bottom of felling notch (C).
The holding strap (F) or stabilizing strap (G) sup‐ ports the tree and helps prevent it from falling prematurely.
Width of strip: approx. 1/10 to 1/5 of the trunk
diameter Do not cut into the strip during the felling cut
12 0458-533-8321-E
Where possible, use a plunge blade. The plunge blade and the upper/lower side of the guide bar are parallel.
During plunge cutting, the plunge bar helps to keep the hinge parallel in form, i.e. the same thickness at all points. To do this, guide the plunge bar parallel to the sink chord.
Felling wedges
Insert the felling wedge as soon as possible, i.e. as soon as no obstruction of saw control is to be expected. Position the felling wedge in the felling cut and drive in with suitable tools.
Only use aluminum or plastic wedges – do not use steel wedges. Steel wedges can seriously damage the saw chain and cause dangerous kickback.
001BA260 KN
001BA261 KN
1.
2.
001BA273 KN
3.
001BA263 KN
4.
5.
1.
2.
3.
4 Working Techniques English
Select suitable felling wedges dependent on the trunk diameter and the width of the kerf (ana‐ logue to felling cut (E)).
Contact the STIHL dealer for the selection of the felling wedge (suitable length, width and height).
4.6 Selecting the appropriate felling
cut
The selection of the appropriate felling cut is
► Plunge cut the felling cut (E) – plunge the
guide bar fully in
► Engage the spiked bumper behind the hinge
and use this as the rotation point – reposition the chainsaw as little as possible
► Make the felling cut up to the hinge (1)
Do not cut into the hinge
► Make the felling cut up to the stabilizing
strap (2)
Do not cut into the stabilizing strap
dependent on the same tree characteristics that must be noted when determining the direction of fall and the escape paths.
There are various different features of these characteristics. This User Manual will only describe the two most commonly occurring var‐ iants:
► Set the felling wedge (3)
Shout a second warning immediately before the tree falls. ► Cut through the stabilizing strap, horizontal
level with the felling cut, with arms fully exten‐ ded
B) Thick trunks
left: Normal tree – vertically upright tree
with uniform crown
right: Leaner tree - crown pointing in direc‐
Implement this felling cut when the trunk diame‐ ter is greater than the cutting length of the machine.
tion of fall
4.7 Felling cut with stabilizing strap
(normal tree)
A) Thin trunks
Implement this felling cut when the trunk diame‐ ter is smaller than the cutting length of the chain‐ saw.
Shout a warning before starting the felling cut. ► Engage the spiked bumper at the height of the
felling cut and use this as the rotation point – reposition the chainsaw as little as possible
► Tip of the guide bar must penetrate the wood
Shout a warning before starting the felling cut.
0458-533-8321-E 13
before the hinge (1) – guide the chainsaw absolutely horizontally and swivel as widely as possible
► Make the felling cut up to the hinge (2)
Do not cut into the hinge
► Make the felling cut up to the stabilizing
strap (3)
001BA274 KN
6.
001BA265 KN
1.
2.
001BA266 KN
001BA267 KN
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
English 4 Working Techniques
Do not cut into the stabilizing strap
The felling cut must be continued on the oppo‐
Cut horizontally
Do not cut into the holding strap.
site side of the trunk.
Ensure that the second cut is at the same level as the first cut. ► Plunge cut the felling cut ► Make the felling cut up to the hinge (4)
Do not cut into the hinge
► Make the felling cut up to the stabilizing
strap (5)
Do not cut into the stabilizing strap
Shout a second warning immediately before the tree falls. ► With outstretched arms, cut through the hold‐
ing strap at a downward angle from outside.
B) Thick trunks
► Set the felling wedge (6)
Shout a second warning immediately before the tree falls. ► Cut through the stabilizing strap, horizontal
level with the felling cut, with arms fully exten‐ ded
4.8 Felling Cut with Holding Strap
(Leaner)
A) Thin trunks
Implement this felling cut when the trunk diame‐ ter is smaller than the cutting length of the chain‐ saw.
Perform this felling cut when the tree diameter is greater than the cutting length of the chainsaw. ► Engage the spiked bumper behind the holding
strap and use it as a pivot – avoid reposition‐ ing the chainsaw more than necessary.
► The guide bar nose enters the wood (1) before
it reaches the hinge – hold the chainsaw hori‐ zontally and swing it as far as possible.
Do not cut into the holding strap or hinge.
► Make the felling cut up to the hinge (2)
Do not cut into the hinge
► Make the felling cut up to the holding strap (3)
Do not cut into the holding strap.
The felling cut must be continued on the oppo‐ site side of the trunk.
Ensure that the second cut is at the same level as the first cut.
► Plunge cut the guide bar into the trunk until it
exits on the other side
► Make the felling cut (E) towards the hinge (1)
Cut horizontally
Do not cut into the hinge
► Make the felling cut towards the holding strap
(2)
► Engage the spiked bumper behind the hinge
and use this as the rotation point – reposition the chainsaw as little as possible
► Tip of the guide bar must penetrate the wood
before the holding strap (4) – guide the chain‐ saw absolutely horizontally and swivel as widely as possible
► Make the felling cut up to the hinge (5)
14 0458-533-8321-E
001BA268 KN
001BA248 KN
1
2
3
a
001BA244 KN
533BA001 KN
1
2
001BA185 KN

5 Cutting Attachment English

Do not cut into the hinge
► Make the felling cut up to the holding strap (6)
Do not cut into the holding strap.
Shout a second warning immediately before the tree falls. ► With outstretched arms, cut through the hold‐
ing strap at a downward angle from outside.
5 Cutting Attachment
A cutting attachment consists of the saw chain, guide bar and chain sprocket.
The cutting attachment that comes standard is designed to exactly match the chain saw.

5.1 Chain Scabbard

Your saw comes standard with a chain scabbard that matches the cutting attachment.
If guide bars of different lengths are mounted to the saw, always use a chain scabbard of the cor‐ rect length which covers the complete guide bar.
The length of the matching guide bars is marked on the side of the chain scabbard.
6 Mounting the Bar and
Chain (side chain ten‐ sioner)

6.1 Removing the chain sprocket cover

The pitch (t) of the saw chain (1), chain
sprocket and the nose sprocket of the Rollo‐ matic guide bar must match. The drive link gauge (2) of the saw chain (1)
must match the groove width of the guide bar (3).
If non-matching components are used, the cut‐ ting attachment may be damaged beyond repair after a short period of operation.
► Unscrew the nut and remove the chain
sprocket cover.
0458-533-8321-E 15
001BA186 KN
143BA003 KN
3
1
1
2
4
001BA187 KN
1
2
3
2310BA013 KN
1
2310BA014 KN
2310BA015 KN
2

English 7 Mounting the Bar and Chain (quick chain tensioner)

► Turn the screw (1) counterclockwise until the
tensioner slide (2) butts against the left end of the housing slot.

6.2 Disengage the chain brake.

► Turn the tensioning screw (4) clockwise until
there is very little chain sag on the underside of the bar – and the drive link tangs are engaged in the bar groove.
► Refit the sprocket cover and screw on the nut
only fingertight.
► Go to chapter on "Tensioning the Saw Chain"
7 Mounting the Bar and
Chain (quick chain ten‐ sioner)

7.1 Removing the chain sprocket cover

► Pull the hand guard towards the front handle
until there is an audible click – the chain brake is disengaged.

6.3 Fitting the chain

► Swing grip (1) into position (until it engages) ► Turn the wing nut (2) to the left until it hangs
loosely in the chain sprocket cover (3)
► Remove chain sprocket cover (3)

7.2 Mounting the tensioning gear

WARNING
Wear work gloves to protect your hands from the sharp cutters.
► Fit the chain – start at the bar nose.
► Remove and reverse tensioning gear (1)
► Fit the guide bar over the studs (1) – the cut‐
ting edges on the top of the bar must point to the right.
► Engage the peg of the tensioner slide in the
locating hole (2) –- place the chain over the sprocket (3) at the same time.
16 0458-533-8321-E
1
3
2310BA016 KN
2
2310BA017 KN
001BA186 KN
1
181BA012 KN
2
3
181BA013 KN
7 Mounting the Bar and Chain (quick chain tensioner) English
► Remove screw (2)
► Position tensioning gear (1) and guide bar (3)
relative to one another

7.4 Fitting the saw chain

► Insert and tighten screw (2)

7.3 Releasing the chain brake

► Pull hand guard towards the front handle until
it engages audibly – chain brake is released
WARNING
Put on protective gloves – risk of injury by the sharp cutters.
► Fit the saw chain – starting at the nose of the
guide bar – pay attention to the position of the tensioning gear and the cutting edges
► Turn tensioning gear (1) to the right as far as
possible
► Turn the guide bar so that the tensioning gear
faces the user
► Place the saw chain on the chain sprocket (2) ► Slide the guide bar over the collar screw (3);
the head of the rear collar screw must pro‐ trude into the oblong hole
0458-533-8321-E 17
135BA011 KN
4
5
2310BA018 KN
1
142BA063 KN
1
2
001BA112 KN
English
► Guide the drive link into the bar groove (see
arrow) and turn the tensioning gear to the left as far as possible
► Fit chain sprocket cover, sliding the guide lugs
into the engine housing openings

8 Tensioning the Saw Chain (side chain tensioner)

8 Tensioning the Saw Chain
(side chain tensioner)
Retensioning during cutting work: ► Switch off the engine. ► Loosen the nut. ► Hold the bar nose up. ► Use a screwdriver to turn the tensioning
screw (1) clockwise until the chain fits snugly against the underside of the bar.
► While still holding the bar nose up, tighten
down the nut firmly.
► Go to "Checking Chain Tension".
A new chain has to be retensioned more often than one that has been in use for some time. ► Check chain tension frequently – see chapter
on "Operating Instructions".
9 Tensioning the Saw Chain
(quick chain tensioner)
When fitting the chain sprocket cover, the teeth of the adjusting wheel and the tensioning gear must mesh; if necessary, ► turn the adjusting wheel (4) a little until the
chain sprocket cover can be slid completely
against the engine housing ► Swing grip (5) into position (until it engages) ► Fit wing nut and tighten lightly ► Next step: see "Tensioning the Saw Chain"
18 0458-533-8321-E
Retensioning during cutting work: ► Shut off the engine. ► Pull out the hinged clip and loosen the wing‐
nut.
► Turn the adjusting wheel (1) clockwise as far
as stop. ► Tighten down the wingnut (2) firmly by hand. ► Fold down the hinged clip. ► Go to "Checking Chain Tension"
A new chain has to be retensioned more often than one that has been in use for some time.
142BA064 KN

10 Checking Chain Tension English

► Check chain tension frequently – see chapter
on "Operating Instructions".
10 Checking Chain Tension
► Shut off the engine. ► Wear work gloves to protect your hands. ► The chain must fit snugly against the under‐
side of the bar and it must still be possible to pull the chain along the bar by hand when the chain brake is released.
► If necessary, retension the chain.
A new chain has to be retensioned more often than one that has been in use for some time. ► Check chain tension frequently – see chapter
on "Operating Instructions".

11 Fuel

Your engine requires a mixture of gasoline and engine oil.
WARNING
For health reasons, avoid direct skin contact with gasoline and avoid inhaling gasoline vapor.

11.1 STIHL MotoMix

STIHL recommends the use of STIHL MotoMix. This ready-to-use fuel mix contains no benzol or lead, has a high octane rating and ensures that you always use the right mix ratio.
STIHL MotoMix uses STIHL HP Ultra two-stroke engine oil for an extra long engine life.
MotoMix is not available in all markets.

11.2 Mixing Fuel

NOTICE
Unsuitable fuels or lubricants or mix ratios other than those specified may result in serious dam‐ age to the engine. Poor quality gasoline or engine oil may damage the engine, sealing rings, hoses and the fuel tank.
11.2.1 Gasoline
Use only high-quality brand-name gasoline with a minimum octane rating of 90 – leaded or unlea‐ ded.
Gasoline with an ethanol content of more than 10% can cause running problems in engines with a manually adjustable carburetor and should not be used in such engines.
Engines equipped with M-Tronic deliver full power when run on gasoline with an ethanol con‐ tent of up to 25% (E25).
11.2.2 Engine Oil
If you mix the fuel yourself, use only STIHL two­stroke engine oil or another high-performance engine oil in accordance with JASO FB, JASO FC, JASO FD, ISO-L-EGB, ISO-L-EGC or ISO-L­EGD.
STIHL specifies STIHL HP Ultra two-stroke engine oil or an equivalent high-performance engine oil in order to maintain emission limits over the machine’s service life.
11.2.3 Mix Ratio
STIHL 50:1 two-stroke engine oil: 50 parts gaso‐ line to 1 part oil
11.2.4 Examples
Gasoline STIHL engine oil 50:1 Liters Liters (ml) 1 0.02 (20) 5 0.10 (100) 10 0.20 (200) 15 0.30 (300) 20 0.40 (400) 25 0.50 (500)
► Use a canister approved for storing fuel. Pour
oil into canister first, then add gasoline and
mix thoroughly.

11.3 Storing Fuel

Store fuel only in approved safety-type fuel can‐ isters in a dry, cool and safe location protected from light and the sun.
0458-533-8321-E 19
001BA229 KN
001BA240 KN
001BA218 KN
001BA219 KN
001BA224 KN

English 12 Fueling

Fuel mix ages – only mix sufficient fuel for a few weeks work. Do not store fuel mix for longer than 30 days. Exposure to light, the sun, low or high temperatures can quickly make the fuel mix unusable.
STIHL MotoMix may be stored for up to 2 years without any problems. ► Thoroughly shake the mixture in the canister
before fueling your machine.
WARNING
Pressure may build up in the canister – open it carefully.
► Clean the fuel tank and canister from time to
time.
Dispose of remaining fuel and cleaning fluid
left: Filler cap - without markings right: Filler cap - with markings on cap
and fuel tank

12.3 Filler cap without marking

12.3.1 To open:
properly in accordance with local regulations and environmental requirements.
12 Fueling

12.1 Preparing the machine

► Open bracket until it is vertical
► Before fueling, clean the cap and the area
around it to ensure that no dirt falls into the fuel tank
► Always position the machine so that the cap is
facing upwards
► Turn the filler cap counterclockwise
(approx. 1/4 turn)

12.2 Different markings on filler caps

Filler caps and fuel tanks can be marked differ‐ ently.
Depending on the version, filler cap and fuel tank may be available with or without markings.
20 0458-533-8321-E
001BA220 KN
001BA221 KN
001BA222 KN
001BA223 KN
001BA225 KN
001BA227 KN
12 Fueling English
► Remove the filler cap
12.3.4 Checking the lock
12.3.2 Filling with fuel
Take care not to spill fuel while fueling and do not overfill the tank.
STIHL recommends using the STIHL filling sys‐ tem for fuel (special accessory). ► Fill with fuel
12.3.3 Closing
The lug on the bracket must engage entirely in
the recess (arrow)
Bracket is in an upright position: ► Position filler cap – position markings on the
filler cap and the filler port must be aligned with each other.
► Push the filler cap down as far as it will go
► Grip the filler cap – if the filler cap cannot be
moved or removed, then it is closed properly
12.3.5 If the filler cap can be moved or
removed
The base of the filler cap is twisted in relation to the upper part.
► Hold the filler cap down and turn it clockwise
until it engages
left: Base of filler cap twisted right: Base of filler cap correctly posi‐
tioned
► Fold down the bracket as far as it will go
0458-533-8321-E 21
001BA226 KN
001BA236 KN
001BA232 KN
001BA234 KN
001BA237 KN
001BA234 KN
English 12 Fueling
► Fit filler cap and turn it counterclockwise until it
engages in the seat of the filling port
► Continue to turn the filler cap counterclockwise
(approx. 1/4 turn) – this will twist the base of the cap into the correct position
► Turn the filler cap clockwise and close it – see
the section "Closing" and "Checking the lock"

12.4 Filler cap with marking

12.4.1 To open:
► Open bracket
Markings on filler cap and fuel tank must align
► Remove the filler cap
12.4.2 Filling with fuel
Take care not to spill fuel while fueling and do not overfill the tank.
STIHL recommends using the STIHL filling sys‐ tem for fuel (special accessory). ► Fill with fuel
12.4.3 Closing
► Turn filler cap (approx. 1/4 turn)
Bracket is in an upright position: ► Position filler cap – markings on filler cap and
fuel tank must align ► Push the filler cap down as far as it will go
22 0458-533-8321-E
001BA233 KN
001BA231 KN
001BA235 KN
001BA241 KN
1
001BA238 KN
001BA239 KN

13 Chain Lubricant English

12.4.4 If the filler cap will not lock onto the
fuel tank
The base of the filler cap is twisted in relation to the upper part. ► Remove the filler cap from the fuel tank and
look at it from above
► Hold the filler cap down and turn it clockwise
until it engages
Then the markings on filler cap and fuel tank will align
► Close bracket lock
Filler cap is locked
left: Base of filler cap is twisted – interior
marking (1) is aligned with the exte‐ rior marking
right: Base of filler cap is in the correct
position – interior marking is below the bracket. It does not align with the exterior marking
► Fit filler cap and turn it counterclockwise until it
engages in the seat of the filling port ► Continue to turn the filler cap counterclockwise
(approx. 1/4 turn) – this will twist the base of
the cap into the correct position ► Turn the filler cap clockwise and close it – see
section "Closing"
13 Chain Lubricant
For automatic and reliable lubrication of the chain and guide bar – use only an environmen‐ tally compatible quality chain and bar lubricant. Rapidly biodegradable STIHL BioPlus is recom‐ mended.
0458-533-8321-E 23
001BA158 KN
143BA024 KN

English 14 Filling Chain Oil Tank

NOTICE
Biological chain oil must be resistant to aging (e.g. STIHL BioPlus), since it will otherwise quickly turn to resin. This results in hard deposits that are difficult to remove, especially in the area of the chain drive and chain. It may even cause the oil pump to seize.
The service life of the chain and guide bar depends on the quality of the lubricant. It is therefore essential to use only a specially formu‐ lated chain lubricant.
WARNING
Do not use waste oil. Renewed contact with waste oil can cause skin cancer. Moreover, waste oil is environmentally harmful.
NOTICE
Waste oil does not have the necessary lubricat‐ ing properties and is unsuitable for chain lubrica‐ tion.
14 Filling Chain Oil Tank
STIHL recommends you use the STIHL filler noz‐ zle for chain oil (special accessory). ► Close the filler cap.
There must still be a small amount of oil in the oil tank when the fuel tank is empty.
If the oil level in the tank does not go down, the reason may be a fault in the oil supply system: Check chain lubrication, clean the oilways, con‐ tact your dealer for assistance if necessary STIHL recommends that you have servicing and repair work carried out exclusively by an author‐ ized STIHL servicing dealer.
15 Checking Chain Lubrica‐
tion
The saw chain must always spin off a small amount of oil.

14.1 Preparations

► Thoroughly clean the oil filler cap and the area
around it to ensure that no dirt falls into the tank.
► Position the machine so that the filler cap is
facing up.
► Open the filler cap.
NOTICE
Never operate your machine without chain lubri‐ cation. If the saw chain runs dry, the cutting attachment may very quickly be damaged beyond repair. Before starting work, always check the chain lubrication and oil level in the tank.
Every new saw chain needs a run-in time of 2 to 3 minutes.
After the saw chain has run in, check the tension of the chain and correct if necessary – see "Checking the chain tension".

16 Chain Brake

14.2 Fill up with chain oil.

► Refill the chain oil tank every time you refuel.
Take care not to spill chain oil while refilling and do not overfill the tank.
24 0458-533-8321-E
143BA011 KN
143BA012 KN
1
533BA003 KN
2

17 Winter Operation English

16.1 Saw chain, lock

16.3 Checking Operation of the
Chain Brake
Before starting work: Run engine at idle speed, engage the chain brake (push hand guard towards bar nose) and open the throttle wide for (no more than 3 seconds) – the chain must not rotate. The hand guard must be free of dirt and easily moveable.

16.4 Chain Brake Maintenance

in an emergency
when starting
when idling
Press the hand guard towards the nose of the guide bar with the left hand - or automatically due to kickback: Saw chain is blocked - and stops running.

16.2 Disengage the chain brake.

The chain brake is subject to (normal wear). It is necessary to have it serviced and maintained regularly by trained personnel. STIHL recom‐ mends that maintenance and repair work be car‐ ried out only by authorised STIHL dealers. The following intervals must be complied with:
Full-time use: quarterly Part-time use: every six months occasional use: annually
17 Winter Operation

17.1 Winter slide (MS 211 only)

At temperatures below +10 °C: ► Remove the shroud – see "Shroud"
► Pull the hand guard back towards the front
handle.
NOTICE
The chain brake must be released before open‐ ing the throttle (except during functional check‐ out) and before sawing.
Running the engine at high revs with the chain brake engaged (chain locked) will quickly dam‐ age the engine and chain drive (clutch, chain brake).
The chain brake is also activated by the inertia of the front hand guard if the kickback force of the saw is high enough: The hand guard is acceler‐ ated toward the bar nose – even if your left hand is not behind the hand guard, e.g. during felling cut.
The chain brake will operate only if the hand guard has not been modified in any way.
0458-533-8321-E 25
► Use the combination wrench to turn the slide
next to the spark plug by 45° counterclockwise
2
2
1
533BA014 KN
STOP
0
001BA140 KN

English 18 Starting / Stopping the Engine

1 winter operation 2 summer operation
► Fit the shroud – see "Shroud"
Heated air is now drawn in from around the cylin‐ der and circulates around the carburetor – this helps prevent carburetor icing.
NOTICE
At temperatures above + 20 °C, always return the slide to the position for summer operation! Risk of engine malfunction – overheating!

17.2 Attach cover plate

(Special accessory, not for ErgoStart versions)
► Fit cover plate (1) and fasten with screws (2) ► if the chain saw is extremely cold, after start‐
ing, bring the engine up to operating tempera‐ ture
MS 211 only: When using the cover plate, the winter slide can be set to winter operation or summer operation. At temperatures below +10°C, set the slide to the position for winter operation.
18 Starting / Stopping the
Engine
18.1 Positions of the master control
lever
Stop 0 – engine off – ignition is switched off Operating position F – engine is running or can
start Warm start n – this position is for starting the
warm engine – the master control lever returns to the operating position when the throttle trigger is squeezed
Cold start l – this position is for starting the cold engine
18.2 Adjusting the master control
lever
To adjust the master control lever from the oper‐ ating position F to cold start l, press and hold down the throttle trigger lockout and throttle trig‐ ger simultaneously – set master control lever.
To set the master control lever to warm start n, first set it to cold start l, then push the master control lever into the warm start n position.
Switching to the warm start n position is only possible from the cold start l position.
26 0458-533-8321-E
143BA018 KN
18 Starting / Stopping the Engine English
Simultaneously pressing the throttle trigger lock‐ out and blipping the throttle trigger causes the master control lever to jump from the warm start n position to the operating position F.
To switch off the engine, set the master control lever to Stop 0.
18.2.1
– –
18.2.2
Position choke shutter closed l
if the engine is cold if the engine stalls during opening of throttle after starting If the fuel tank has run empty (engine stalled out)
Position starting acceleration n
if engine is warm (once the engine has been running for approx. one minute) When the engine has turned over for the first time after ventilation of the combustion chamber, if the engine was flooded
18.4.1 On the ground

18.3 Fuel pump

Press the fuel pump bulb several times – even if it is still full of fuel:
When starting for the first time
If the fuel tank has run empty (engine stalled
out)

18.4 Holding the chain saw

There are two ways to hold the chain saw during starting.
► Place the chain saw securely on the ground –
assume a steady stance – the saw chain must
not touch any objects and also must not touch
the ground ► With the left hand on handlebar, press the
chain saw firmly against the ground – thumb
wrapped around the handlebar ► Place your right foot through the rear handle
0458-533-8321-E 27
143BA019 KN
143BA020 KN
English 18 Starting / Stopping the Engine
18.4.2 Between the knees or thighs
► with the right hand, pull the starter grip slowly
until you feel it engage – and then give it a
brisk strong pull – simultaneously press down
on the handlebar – do not pull the starter rope
out all the way – risk of breakage! Do not let
the starter grip snap back – guide it vertically
back into the housing so that the starter rope
can rewind properly
With a new engine or after a long period of dis‐ use, with machines without an additional manual fuel pump, it may be necessary to pull the starter rope several times – to prime the fuel line.
18.5.2 Versions with ErgoStart
WARNING
This machine is extremely simple and easy to start, even for children – risk of accident!
Make absolutely certain that children or other unauthorized persons cannot attempt to start the machine:
never leave the machine unattended during
work breaks
secure storage after work
► clamp the rear handle between the knees or
thighs
► grip the handlebar firmly with the left hand –
thumb wrapped around the handlebar

18.5 Starting

18.5.1 Standard versions
The ErgoStart stores the energy for starting the chain saw. For this reason, a few seconds may pass between the pulling of the starter rope and the starting of the engine.
For versions with ErgoStart, there are two ways to start the machine: ► pull the starter grip slowly and smoothly –
or – with the right hand, pull the starter grip in sev‐ eral short pulls of the starter rope, pulling the rope out only a little bit each time
► during starting, press down on the handlebar –
do not pull out the starter rope all the way – risk of breakage!
► Do not let the starter grip snap back – guide it
vertically back into the housing so that the starter rope can rewind properly

18.6 Starting the chain saw

WARNING
There must not be anyone within the swivel range of the chain saw.
► Observe safety precautions
28 0458-533-8321-E
533BA004 KN
2
1
533BA005 KN
0
3
3
4
5
0
533BA006 KN
18 Starting / Stopping the Engine English
18.6.1 Versions with fuel pump
► Simultaneously press the throttle trigger lock‐
out (2) and throttle trigger – set the master control lever (3):
Position choke shutter closed l
if engine is cold (even if the engine has stalled
during opening of throttle after starting)
Position starting acceleration n
if engine is warm (once the engine has been
running for approx. one minute)
► Hold and start the chain saw

18.7 When the engine has turned over for the first time

► Move the master control lever to the position
starting acceleration n
► Hold and start the chain saw

18.8 Once the engine is running

► Press the fuel pump bulb at least five times –
even if it is still full of fuel
18.6.2 For all versions
► Press the throttle trigger lockout and blip the
throttle trigger (4); the master control lever (3) jumps to the operating position F and the engine begins to idle
► Push the hand guard (1) forwards – the saw
chain is blocked
0458-533-8321-E 29
143BA012 KN

English 19 Operating Instructions

► Set the master control lever to starting accel‐
eration n – even if the engine is cold
► Restart the engine
19 Operating Instructions

19.1 During the break-in period

A factory new machine should not be run at high revs (full throttle off load) for the first three tank fillings. This avoids unnecessarily high loads dur‐ ing the break-in period. As all moving parts have to bed in during the break-in period, the frictional resistances in the shortblock are greater during this period. The engine develops its maximum power after about 5 to 15 tank fillings.

19.2 During work

NOTICE
Do not make the mixture leaner to achieve an apparent increase in power – this could damage the engine – see "Adjusting the Carburetor".
► Pull the hand guard toward the handlebar
The chain brake is released – the chain saw is ready for use.
NOTICE
Open the throttle only when the chain brake is off. Increased engine speeds with the chain brake on (saw chain is stationary) will quickly damage the clutch and chain brake.

18.9 At very low temperatures

► let the engine warm up briefly with the throttle
slightly open

18.10 Switch off the engine

► Move the master control lever to the stop posi‐
tion 0

18.11 If the engine does not start

The master control lever was not returned from the position choke shutter closed l to starting acceleration n in time, the engine may be floo‐ ded. ► Move the master control lever to the stop posi‐
tion 0 ► Remove the spark plug – see "Spark plug" ► Dry spark plug ► Crank the engine several times with the starter
– to clear the combustion chamber ► Replace the spark plug – see "Spark plug"
NOTICE
Open the throttle only when the chain brake is off. Running the engine at high revs with the chain brake engaged (chain locked) will quickly damage the shortblock and chain drive (clutch, chain brake).
19.2.1 Check chain tension frequently
A new saw chain must be retensioned more fre‐ quently than one that has been in use already for an extended period.
19.2.2 Chain cold
Tension is correct when the chain fits snugly against the underside of the bar but can still be pulled along the bar by hand. Retension if neces‐ sary – see "Tensioning the Saw Chain".
19.2.3 Chain at operating temperature
The chain stretches and begins to sag. The drive links must not come out of the bar groove on the underside of the bar – the chain may otherwise jump off the bar. Retension the chain – see "Ten‐ sioning the Saw Chain".
30 0458-533-8321-E
3
1
2
143BA026 KN
533BA002 KN

20 Taking Care of the Guide Bar English

NOTICE
The chain contracts as it cools down. If it is not slackened off, it can damage the crankshaft and bearings.
19.2.4 After a long period of full-throttle oper‐
ation
After a long period of full-throttle operation, allow engine to run for a while at idle speed so that the heat in the engine can be dissipated by flow of cooling air. This protects engine-mounted com‐ ponents (ignition, carburetor) from thermal over‐ load.
► Measure the groove depth – with the scale on
the filing gauge (special accessory) – in the area used most for cutting
Chain type Chain pitch Minimum
groove
depth Picco 1/4" P 4.0 mm Rapid 1/4“ 4.0 mm Picco 3/8" P 5.0 mm Rapid 3/8“; 0.325“ 6.0 mm Rapid 0.404“ 7.0 mm
If groove depth is less than specified: ► Replace the guide bar
The drive link tangs will otherwise scrape along the bottom of the groove – the cutters and tie straps will not ride on the bar rails.

19.3 After finishing work

► Slacken off the chain if you have retensioned it
at operating temperature during work.
NOTICE
Always slacken off the chain again after finishing work. The chain contracts as it cools down. If it is not slackened off, it can damage the crankshaft and bearings.
19.3.1 Short-term storage
Wait for engine to cool down. Keep the machine with a full tank of fuel in a dry place, well away from sources of ignition, until you need it again.
19.3.2 Long-term storage
See "Storing the machine"
20 Taking Care of the Guide
Bar

21 Shroud

21.1 Removing the shroud

► Squeeze the throttle trigger and move the
Master Control lever to l .
► Slide the lock to the rear. ► Remove the shroud upwards to the rear.

21.2 Installing the shroud

► Refit the shroud and secure it with the lock.

22 Air Filter System

The air filter system can be adapted to suit differ‐ ent operating conditions by installing a choice of filters. Changing the filter is quick and simple.
► Turn the guide bar over – every time you
sharpen the chain and every time you replace the chain – this helps avoid one-sided wear, especially at the nose and underside of the bar.
► Regularly clean the oil inlet hole (1), the oil‐
way (2) and the bar groove (3)
0458-533-8321-E 31
533BA008 KN
533BA009 KN

English 23 Cleaning the Air Filter

► Push the two locking tabs upwards, tilt the air
filter towards the rear handle and remove.
NOTICE
To avoid damaging the filter, do not use tools for removing and installing the air filter.
► Blow out the filter with compressed air from
the clean air side.
If the filter fabric is caked with dirt or no com‐ pressed air is available: ► Wash the filter in a clean, non-flammable solu‐

22.1 Fleece mat (MS 171)

Top illustration.

22.2 One-piece fleece filter with sealing lip (MS 181, MS 211)

Bottom illustration, special accessory on MS 171.

22.3 One-piece fabric filter (special accessory)

For damp and extremely cold operating condi‐ tions.
23 Cleaning the Air Filter

23.1 If there is a noticeable loss of engine power

► Remove the shroud – see "Shroud". ► Always replace damaged filters. ► Clean away loose dirt from around the filter.
tion (e.g. warm soapy water) and then dry. ► Reinstall the air filter. ► Install the shroud – see "Shroud".

24 Adjusting the Carburetor

24.1 General Information

The carburetor comes from the factory with a standard setting.
This setting provides an optimum fuel-air mixture under most operating conditions.

24.2 Preparations

► Shut off the engine. ► Check the air filter and clean or replace if nec‐
essary. ► Check the spark arresting screen (not in all
models, country-specific) in the muffler and
clean or replace if necessary.
32 0458-533-8321-E
H
L
533BA020 KN
LA
L
533BA021 KN

25 Spark Arresting Screen in Muffler English

24.3 Standard Setting

It is usually necessary to change the setting of the idle speed screw (LA) after every correction to the low speed screw (L).
24.5 Fine Tuning for Operation at
High Altitude
A slight correction of the setting may be neces‐ sary if the engine does not run satisfactorily: ► Carry out the standard setting. ► Warm up the engine. ► Turn high speed screw (H) slightly clockwise
► Turn high speed screw (H) counterclockwise
as far as stop (no more than 3/4 turn).
► Turn the low speed screw (L) clockwise as far
as stop, then turn it back 1/4 turn.

24.4 Adjusting Idle Speed

► Carry out the standard setting. ► Start and warm up the engine.
(leaner) – no further than stop.
NOTICE
After returning from high altitude, reset the car‐ buretor to the standard setting.
If the setting is too lean there is a risk of engine damage due to insufficient lubrication and over‐ heating.
25 Spark Arresting Screen in
Muffler
25.1 Spark arresting screen in muf‐
fler
WARNING
To reduce the risk of fire caused by hot particles
24.4.1 Engine stops while idling ► Turn the idle speed screw (LA) clockwise until
the chain begins to run – then back it off 2 turns.
24.4.2 Saw chain runs while engine is idling ► Turn the idle speed screw (LA) counterclock‐
wise until the chain stops moving – then turn it another 2 turns in the same direction.
WARNING
If the chain continues moving when the engine is idling, have your saw checked and repaired by your servicing dealer.
24.4.3 Erratic idling behavior, poor accelera‐
Idle setting is too lean ► Turn the low speed screw (L) carefully coun‐
tion (even though standard setting of low speed screw is correct)
terclockwise, no further than stop, until the engine runs smoothly and accelerates well.
escaping from the machine, never operate the machine without a spark arresting screen, or with the spark arresting screen damaged. Do not modify the muffler or spark arresting screen. To reduce the risk of fire from accumulated debris such as pine needles, branches or leaves, ensure that the muffler plugs are in place before taking up work.
NOTICE
According to the law or regulations in some countries or federal states, certain operations may only be carried out if a properly serviced spark arresting screen is provided.
► If the engine is down on power, check the
spark arresting screen in the muffler. ► If the muffler plugs are missing or damaged,
mount new plugs.
STIHL recommends that maintenance and repair work be carried out only by authorized STIHL dealers.
0458-533-8321-E 33
533BA007 KN
000BA039 KN
A
1
000BA045 KN

English 26 Spark Plug

26 Spark Plug
► If the engine is down on power, difficult to start
or runs poorly at idle speed, first check the spark plug.
► Fit a new spark plug after about 100 operating
hours – or sooner if the electrodes are badly eroded. Install only suppressed spark plugs of the type approved by STIHL – see "Specifica‐ tions".

26.1 Removing the spark plug

► Remove the shroud – see "Shroud".
WARNING
Arcing may occur if the adapter nut (1) is loose or missing. Working in an easily combustible or explosive atmosphere may cause a fire or an explosion. This can result result in serious inju‐ ries or damage to property.
► Use resistor type spark plugs with a properly
tightened adapter nut.

26.3 Installing the spark plug

► Pull off the spark plug boot. ► Unscrew the spark plug.
► Install the spark plug and connect the spark
plug boot (press it down firmly) – reassembly
all other parts in the reverse sequence.

26.2 Checking the Spark Plug

27 Engine Running Behavior

If engine running behavior is unsatisfactory even though the air filter is clean and the carburetor is properly adjusted, the cause may be the muffler.
Have the muffler checked for contamination (car‐ bonization) by your servicing dealer.
STIHL recommends that you have servicing and repair work carried out exclusively by an author‐ ized STIHL servicing dealer.
► Clean dirty spark plug. ► Check electrode gap (A) and readjust if neces‐
sary – see "Specifications".
► Rectify the problems which have caused foul‐
ing of the spark plug.
Possible causes are:
Too much oil in fuel mix.
Dirty air filter.
Unfavorable running conditions.
34 0458-533-8321-E

28 Storing the Machine

For periods of 3 months or longer ► Drain and clean the fuel tank in a well ventila‐
ted area. ► Dispose of fuel properly in accordance with
local environmental requirements. ► Run the engine until the carburetor is dry – this
helps prevent the carburetor diaphragms stick‐
ing together. ► Remove the saw chain and guide bar, clean
them and spray with corrosion inhibiting oil. ► Thoroughly clean the machine – pay special
attention to the cylinder fins and air filter. ► If you use a biological chain and bar lubricant,
e.g. STIHL BioPlus, completely fill the chain oil
tank.
001BA121 KN
001BA122 KN
1
2
4
5
6
1
2
3
6

29 Checking and Replacing the Chain Sprocket English

► Store the machine in a dry, high or locked
location, out of the reach of children and other unauthorized persons.
29 Checking and Replacing
the Chain Sprocket
► Remove chain sprocket cover, saw chain and
guide bar.
► Release chain brake – pull hand guard against
the front handle

29.1 Fit new chain sprocket

after use of two saw chains or earlier
if the wear marks (arrows) are deeper than
0.5 mm – otherwise the service life of the saw chain is reduced – use check gauge (special accessory) to test
Using two saw chains in alternation helps pre‐ serve the chain sprocket.
STIHL recommends use of original STIHL chain sprockets in order to ensure optimal functioning of the chain brake.
► Use a screwdriver to remove the E-clip (1) ► Remove the washer (2) ► Remove rim sprocket (3) ► Inspect transport profile on the clutch drum (4)
– if there are also heavy signs of wear, also
replace the clutch drum ► Remove clutch drum or spur chain
sprocket (5) including needle cage (6) from the
crankshaft – with QuickStop Super chain
brake, press throttle trigger lockout before‐
hand
29.2 Install spur chain sprocket / rim
► Clean crankshaft stub and needle cage and
► Slide needle cage onto the crankshaft stub ► After refitting, turn the clutch drum and/or spur
► Refit the rim sprocket – cavities toward the
► Refit washer and E-clip on the crankshaft
sprocket
lubricate with STIHL lubricant (special acces‐
sory)
chain sprocket approx. 1 full turn so that the
carrier for the oil pump drive engages – with
QuickStop Super chain brake, press throttle
trigger lockout beforehand
outside
0458-533-8321-E 35
689BA027 KN
a
A
B
689BA021 KN

English 30 Maintaining and Sharpening the Saw Chain

30 Maintaining and Sharpen‐
ing the Saw Chain
30.1 Sawing effortlessly with a prop‐ erly sharpened saw chain
A properly sharpened saw chain cuts through wood effortlessly even with very little pushing.
Never use a dull or damaged saw chain – this leads to increased physical strain, increased vibration load, unsatisfactory cutting results and increased wear. ► Clean the saw chain ► Check the saw chain for cracks and damaged
rivets
► Replace damaged or worn chain components
and adapt these parts to the remaining parts in terms of shape and level of wear – rework accordingly
Carbide-tipped (Duro) saw chains are especially wear-resistant. For an optimal sharpening result, STIHL recommends STIHL servicing dealers.
WARNING
Compliance with the angles and dimensions lis‐ ted below is absolutely necessary. An improperly sharpened saw chain – especially depth gauges that are too low – can lead to increased kickback tendency of the chain saw – risk of injury!

30.2 Chain pitch

The diameter of file to be used depends on the chain pitch – see table "Sharpening tools".
The angles of the cutter must be maintained dur‐ ing resharpening.

30.3 Sharpening and side plate angles

A Sharpening angle
STIHL saw chains are sharpened with a 30° sharpening angle. Ripping chains, which are sharpened with a 10° sharpening angle, are exceptions. Ripping chains have an X in the des‐ ignation.
B Side plate angle
The correct side plate angle results automatically when the specified file holder and file diameter are used.
Tooth shapes Angle (°) A B Micro = semi-chisel tooth, e. g., 63 PM3, 26 RM3, 36 RM Super = full chisel tooth, e. g., 63 PS3, 26 RS, 36 RS3 Ripping chain, e. g., 63 PMX, 36 RMX
The angles must be identical for all cutters in the saw chain. Varying angles: Rough, uneven run‐ ning of the saw chain, increased wear – even to the point of saw chain breakage.
30 75
30 60
10 75
The chain pitch marking (a) is embossed in the area of the depth gauge of each cutter.
Marking (a) Chain pitch Inches mm 7 1/4 P 6.35 1 or 1/4 1/4 6.35 6, P or PM 3/8 P 9.32 2 or 325 0.325 8.25 3 or 3/8 3/8 9.32 4 or 404 0.404 10.26
36 0458-533-8321-E
689BA025 KN
001BA203 KN
689BA018 KN
90°
689BA043 KN
30 Maintaining and Sharpening the Saw Chain English

30.4 File holder

► Use a file holder
Always use a file holder (special accessory, see table "Sharpening tools") when sharpening saw chains by hand. File holders have markings for the sharpening angle.
Use only special saw chain files! Other files are unsuitable in terms of shape and type of cutting.

30.5 To check the angles

► Guide the file: horizontally (at a right angle to
the side surface of the guide bar) in accord‐ ance with the specified angle – according to the markings on the file holder – rest the file
holder on the tooth head and the depth gauge ► File only from the inside outward ► The file only sharpens on the forward stroke –
lift the file on the backstroke ► Do not file tie straps and drive links ► Rotate the file a little periodically in order to
avoid uneven wear
STIHL filing gauge (special accessory, see table "Sharpening tools") – a universal tool for check‐ ing sharpening and side plate angles, depth gauge setting, and tooth length, as well as clean‐ ing grooves and oil inlet holes.

30.6 Proper sharpening

► Select sharpening tools in accordance with
chain pitch ► Clamp guide bar if necessary ► Block saw chain – push the hand guard for‐
ward ► To advance the saw chain, pull the hand
guard toward the handlebar: The chain brake
is disengaged. With the Quickstop Super
chain brake system, additionally press the
throttle trigger lockout ► Sharpen frequently, removing little material –
two or three strokes of the file are usually suffi‐
cient for simple resharpening
► To remove file burr, use a piece of hardwood ► Check angle with file gauge
All cutters must be equally long.
With varying cutter lengths, the cutter heights also vary and cause rough running of the saw chain and chain breakage. ► All cutters must be filed down equal to the
length of the shortest cutter – ideally, one should have this done by a servicing dealer using an electric sharpener
0458-533-8321-E 37
689BA023 KN
a
2
689BA061 KN
1
689BA051 KN
689BA044 KN
689BA052 KN
English 30 Maintaining and Sharpening the Saw Chain

30.7 Depth gauge setting

The depth gauge determines the depth to which the cutter penetrates the wood and thus the chip thickness.
a Required distance between depth gauge and
cutting edge
mark) is lowered at the same time as the depth gauge of the cutter.
WARNING
The rest of the humped drive link must not be filed; otherwise, this could increase the tendency of the chain saw to kick back.
When cutting softwood outside of the frost sea‐ son, the distance can be increased by up to
0.2 mm (0.008").
Chain pitch Depth gauge Distance (a) Inches (mm) mm (Inches) 1/4 P (6.35) 0.45 (0.018) 1/4 (6.35) 0.65 (0.026) 3/8 P (9.32) 0.65 (0.026)
0.325 (8.25) 0.65 (0.026) 3/8 (9.32) 0.65 (0.026)
0.404 (10.26) 0.80 (0.031)

30.8 Lowering the depth gauges

The depth gauge setting is lowered when the cutter is sharpened. ► Check the depth gauge setting after each
sharpening
► Lay the appropriate file gauge (1) for the chain
pitch on the saw chain and press it against the
cutter to be checked – if the depth gauge pro‐
trudes past the file gauge, the depth gauge
must be reworked
Saw chains with humped drive link (2) – upper part of the humped drive link (2) (with service
► Rework the depth gauge so that it is flush with
the file gauge
► Afterwards, dress the leading edge of the
depth gauge parallel to the service mark (see arrow) – when doing this, be careful not to fur‐ ther lower the highest point of the depth gauge
WARNING
Depth gauges that are too low increase the kick‐ back tendency of the chain saw.
38 0458-533-8321-E

31 Maintenance and Care English

► Lay the file gauge on the saw chain – the high‐
est point of the depth gauge must be flush with
the file gauge ► After sharpening, clean the saw chain thor‐
oughly, removing any filings or grinding dust –
lubricate the saw chain thoroughly ► In the event of extended periods of disuse,
store saw chains in cleaned and oiled condi‐
tion
Sharpening tools (special accessories) Chain pitch Round file^Round file File holder File gauge Taper square
file
Sharpening
1)
set
Inches (mm) mm (Inches)Part number Part number Part number Part number Part number
1/4P (6.35) 3.2 (1/8) 5605 771
3206
5605 750 4300
0000 893 4005
0814 252 3356
5605 007 1000
1/4 (6.35) 4.0 (5/32) 5605 772 40065605 750 43271110 893 40000814 252 33565605 007
1027
3/8 P (9.32) 4.0 (5/32) 5605 772
4006
0.325 (8.25) 4.8 (3/16) 5605 772
4806
3/8 (9.32) 5.2 (13/64) 5605 772
5206
0.404 (10.26) 5.5 (7/32) 5605 772
5506
5605 750 4327 5605 750 4328 5605 750 4329 5605 750 4330
1110 893 4000 1110 893 4000 1110 893 4000 1106 893 4000
0814 252 3356 0814 252 3356 0814 252 3356 0814 252 3356
5605 007 1027 5605 007 1028 5605 007 1029 5605 007 1030
1)consisting of file holder with round file, taper square file and file gauge
31 Maintenance and Care
The following maintenance intervals apply for normal operat‐ ing conditions only. When working under difficult conditions (high accumulation of dust, highly resinous lumber, lumber from tropical trees, etc.) or longer than normal each day, the specified intervals must be shortened accordingly. If you only use the tool occasionally, extend the intervals accordingly.
Weekly
Monthly
If faulty
Annually
If damaged
As required
Before starting work
Whenever tank is refilled
At the end of work and/or daily
Complete machine Visual inspection (condition,
X X
leaks) Clean X
Throttle trigger, throttle trigger
Function test X X lockout, choke lever, stop switch, master control lever (dependent on equipment)
Chain brake Function test X X
Have checked by dealer
1)
X
Manual fuel pump (if present) check X
Have repaired by a specialist
1)
dealer
1)
STIHL recommends STIHL servicing dealer
2)
When using professional chainsaws (with a power output of 3.4 kW or more) for the first time,
X
tighten the cylinder block screws after 10 to 20 hours of operation
0458-533-8321-E 39
English 31 Maintenance and Care
The following maintenance intervals apply for normal operat‐ ing conditions only. When working under difficult conditions (high accumulation of dust, highly resinous lumber, lumber from tropical trees, etc.) or longer than normal each day, the specified intervals must be shortened accordingly. If you only use the tool occasionally, extend the intervals accordingly.
Weekly
Monthly
If faulty
Annually
If damaged
Before starting work
Whenever tank is refilled
As required
Fuel pick-up body / filter in fuel tank
check X
Clean, replace filter insert X X
replace X X X Fuel tank Clean X Lubricating oil tank Clean X Chain lubrication check X
At the end of work and/or daily
Saw chain Check, pay attention to
X X
sharpness
Checking the chain tension X X
sharpen X Guide bar Check (wear, damage) X
Clean and turn over X
Deburr X
replace X X Chain sprocket check X Air filter Clean X X
replace X Anti-vibration elements check X X
Have replaced by servicing
1)
dealer
X
Air intake on fan housing Clean X X X Cylinder fins Clean X X Carburetor Check idle adjustment – saw
X X
chain must not rotate
Set the idle speed; if required
have the chainsaw repaired
by a specialist dealer
1)
Spark plug Adjust electrode gap X
Replace after 100 hours of
operation Accessible screws and nuts
(except adjusting screws)
Spark arresting screen in muf‐ fler
2)
Tighten
Check if installed X
Check or replace
1)
X
Chain catcher check X
X
X
1)
STIHL recommends STIHL servicing dealer
2)
When using professional chainsaws (with a power output of 3.4 kW or more) for the first time,
tighten the cylinder block screws after 10 to 20 hours of operation
40 0458-533-8321-E
10
4
13
14
6
3
1
12
9
8
2
5
7
11
7
8
20
26
25
21
19
16
15
17
18
22
23
24
#
533BA015 KN

32 Main Parts English

The following maintenance intervals apply for normal operat‐ ing conditions only. When working under difficult conditions (high accumulation of dust, highly resinous lumber, lumber from tropical trees, etc.) or longer than normal each day, the specified intervals must be shortened accordingly. If you only use the tool occasionally, extend the intervals accordingly.
Weekly
Monthly
If faulty
Annually
If damaged
Before starting work
Whenever tank is refilled
As required
replace X
At the end of work and/or daily
Safety information label replace X
32 Main Parts
9 Side chain tensioner
10 Bumper spike
11 Guide bar
12 Oilomatic saw chain
13 Adjusting wheel (quick tensioner)
14
Wings of the wing nut
1)
(quick tensioner)
15 Oil filler cap
16 Muffler
17 Front hand guard
18 Front handle (handlebar)
19 Spark plug boot
20 Starter grip
21 Fuel tank twist lock
22 Master Control lever
23 Throttle trigger
24 Throttle trigger interlock
25 Rear handle
1 Shroud slide
2 Carburetor adjusting screws
3
Manual fuel pump (Easy Start1))
4 Slide (summer operation/ winter operation,
MS 211 only)
5 Chain brake
6 Chain sprocket
7 Chain sprocket cover
8 Chain catcher
1)
STIHL recommends STIHL servicing dealer
2)
When using professional chainsaws (with a power output of 3.4 kW or more) for the first time,
tighten the cylinder block screws after 10 to 20 hours of operation
1)
According to version
0458-533-8321-E 41
26 Rear hand guard
# Serial number

33 Specifications

33.1 Engine

STIHL single cylinder two-stroke engine
33.1.1 MS 171, MS 171 C
Displacement: Bore: 38 mm
Stroke: 28 mm
31.8 cc
English 33 Specifications
Engine power to ISO 7293: 1.3 kW (1.8 bhp) at
Idle speed:
33.1.2 MS 181, MS 181 C
Displacement: Bore: 38 mm
Stroke: 28 mm Engine power to ISO 7293: 1.5 kW (2.0 bhp) at
Idle speed:
33.1.3 MS 211, MS 260 C
Displacement: Bore: 40 mm
Stroke: 28 mm Engine power to ISO 7293: 1.7 kW (2.3 bhp) at
Idle speed:
1)
1)
1)
10,000 rpm 2,800 rpm
31.8 cc
10,000 rpm 2,800 rpm
35.2 cc
10,000 rpm 2,800 rpm

33.2 Ignition System

Electronic magneto ignition
Spark plug (resistor type): NGK CMR6H BOSCH USR4AC Electrode gap: 0.5 mm

33.3 Fuel System

All position diaphragm carburetor with integral fuel pump
Fuel tank capacity:
270 cc (0.27 l)

33.4 Chain Lubrication

Fully automatic, speed-controlled oil pump with rotary piston
Oil tank capacity:
265 cc (0.265 l)

33.5 Weight

dry, without bar and chain MS 171: 4.3 kg MS 171 C 4.6 kg MS 181: 4.3 kg MS 181 C: 4.6 kg MS 211: 4.3 kg MS 211 C: 4.6 kg

33.6 Cutting Attachments for MS 171, MS 171 C, MS 181, MS 181 C

Actual cutting length may be less than the speci‐ fied length
33.6.1 Rollomatic E Mini Light guide bars
Cutting lengths: 30, 35 cm Pitch: 3/8" P (9.32 mm) Groove width: 1.1 mm
1)
to ISO 11681 +/- 50 rpm
42 0458-533-8321-E
Nose sprocket: 7-tooth
33.6.2 Rollomatic E Mini guide bars
Cutting lengths: 30, 35, 40 cm Pitch: 3/8" P (9.32 mm) Groove width: 1.1 mm Nose sprocket: 7-tooth
33.6.3 3/8" Picco chain
Picco Micro Mini 3 (61 PMM3) Type 3610 Pitch: 3/8" P (9.32 mm) Drive link gauge: 1.1 mm
33.6.4 Chain Sprocket
6-tooth for 3/8" P (spur sprocket) Max. chain speed according to ISO 11681: Chain speed at maximum power:
24.8 m/s
18.6 m/s

33.7 Cutting Attachments for MS 211, MS 211 C

Actual cutting length may be less than the speci‐ fied length
33.7.1 Rollomatic E Light and Rollomatic E
Cutting lengths: 30, 35, 40 cm Pitch: 3/8" P (9.32 mm) Groove width: 1.3 mm Nose sprocket: 9-tooth
33.7.2 3/8" Picco chains
Picco Micro 3 (63 PM3) Type 3636 Picco Duro 3 (63 PD3) Type 3612 Picco Super 3 (63 PS3) Type 3616 Pitch: 3/8" P (9.32 mm) Drive link gauge: 1.3 mm
33.7.3 Chain Sprocket
6-tooth for 3/8" P (spur sprocket) Max. chain speed according to ISO 11681: Chain speed at maximum power:
guide bars
24.8 m/s
18.6 m/s

33.8 Noise and Vibration Data

For further details on compliance with Vibration Directive 2002/44/EC see www.stihl.com/vib.
33.8.1 Sound pressure level Lp to ISO 22868
MS 171: 99 dB(A) MS 171 C: 99 dB(A) MS 181: 100 dB(A) MS 181 C: 100 dB(A) MS 211: 100 dB(A) MS 211 C: 100 dB(A)
33.8.2 Sound power level Lw to ISO 22868
MS 171: 112 dB(A)
000BA073 KN

34 Ordering Spare Parts

English
MS 171 C: 112 dB(A) MS 181: 112 dB(A) MS 181 C: 112 dB(A) MS 211: 113 dB(A) MS 211 C: 113 dB(A)
33.8.3 Vibration measurement a
hv,eq
to
ISO 22867
Handle, left Handle,
MS 171: MS 171 C: MS 181: MS 181 C: MS 211: MS 211 C:
4.0 m/s
3.5 m/s
3.5 m/s
3.5 m/s
3.5 m/s
3.5 m/s
2
2
2
2
2
2
4.5 m/s
3.5 m/s
3.0 m/s
3.0 m/s
3.5 m/s
3.5 m/s
2
2
2
2
2
2
right
The K‑factor in accordance with Directive 2006/42/EC is 2.0 dB(A) for the sound pressure level and sound power level; the K‑factor in accordance with Directive 2006/42/EC is
2.0 m/s2 for the vibration level.

33.9 REACH

REACH is an EC regulation and stands for the Registration, Evaluation, Authorisation and Restriction of Chemical substances.
For information on compliance with the REACH regulation (EC) No. 1907/2006 see www.stihl.com/reach.

33.10 Exhaust Emissions

The CO2value measured in the EU type approval procedure is specified at www.stihl.com/co2.
The measured CO2value was determined on a representative engine in accordance with a
standardized test procedure under laboratory conditions and does not represent either an explicit or implied guarantee of the performance of a specific engine.
The applicable exhaust emission requirements are fulfilled by the intended usage and mainte‐ nance described in this instruction manual. The type approval expires if the engine is modified in any way.
parts, always quote the saw model, the part numbers and names of the parts.
Model
Serial number
Guide bar part number
Chain part number

35 Maintenance and Repairs

Users of this machine may only carry out the maintenance and service work described in this user manual. All other repairs must be carried out by a servicing dealer.
STIHL recommends that you have servicing and repair work carried out exclusively by an author‐ ized STIHL servicing dealer. STIHL dealers are regularly given the opportunity to attend training courses and are supplied with the necessary technical information.
When repairing the machine, only use replace‐ ment parts which have been approved by STIHL for this power tool or are technically identical. Only use high-quality replacement parts in order to avoid the risk of accidents and damage to the machine.
STIHL recommends the use of original STIHL replacement parts.
Original STIHL parts can be identified by the STIHL part number, the { logo and the STIHL parts symbol K (the symbol may appear alone on small parts).

36 Disposal

Observe all country-specific waste disposal rules and regulations.
34 Ordering Spare Parts
Please enter your saw model, serial number as well as the part numbers of the guide bar and saw chain in the spaces provided. This will make re-ordering simpler.
The guide bar and saw chain are subject to nor‐ mal wear and tear. When purchasing these
0458-533-8321-E 43
STIHL products must not be thrown in the gar‐ bage can. Take the product, accessories and

English 37 EC Declaration of Conformity

packaging to an approved disposal site for envi‐ ronment-friendly recycling.
Contact your STIHL servicing dealer for the lat‐ est information on waste disposal.
37 EC Declaration of Con‐
formity
ANDREAS STIHL AG & Co. KG Badstr. 115 D-71336 Waiblingen
Germany
declare in exclusive responsibility that the prod‐ uct
Model: Chain saw Make: STIHL Type: MS 171
Serial identification number: 1139 Displacement all MS 171:
all MS 181: all MS 211:
conforms to the provisions of Directives 2011/65/EU, 2006/42/EC, 2014/30/EU and 2000/14/EC and has been developed and manu‐ factured in compliance with the following stand‐ ards in the versions valid at the time of produc‐ tion:
EN ISO 11681‑1, EN 55012, EN 61000‑6‑1
The measured and guaranteed equivalent sound power level has been determined in accordance with Directive 2000/14/EC, Annex V, and stand‐ ard ISO 9207.
Measured sound power level
all MS 171: 112 dB(A) all MS 181: 112 dB(A) all MS 211: 113 dB(A)
MS 171 C MS 171 C-BE MS 181 MS 181 C MS 181 C-BE MS 211 MS 211 C MS 211 C-BE
31.8 cc
31.8 cc
35.2 cc
Deutsche Prüf- und Zertifizierungsstelle für Land­und Forsttechnik (NB 0363) Spremberger Straße 1 D-64823 Groß-Umstadt
Certification No.: all MS 171: K-EG-2009/4442 all MS 181: K-EG-2009/4446 all MS 211: K-EG-2009/4444
The technical documentation has been retained by:
ANDREAS STIHL AG & Co. KG Product approval
The year of construction and the serial number are shown on the machine.
Done at Waiblingen, 03.02.2020
ANDREAS STIHL AG & Co. KG
p p.
Dr. Jürgen Hoffmann
Head of Product Data, Regulations and Licens‐ ing
Guaranteed sound power level
all MS 171: 114 dB(A) all MS 181: 114 dB(A) all MS 211: 115 dB(A)
The EC type approval test was carried out at the
DPLF
44 0458-533-8321-E
37 EC Declaration of Conformity English
0458-533-8321-E 45
English 37 EC Declaration of Conformity
46 0458-533-8321-E
37 EC Declaration of Conformity English
0458-533-8321-E 47
www.stihl.com
*04585338321E*
0458-533-8321-E
*04585338321E*
0458-533-8321-E
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