STIHL MS 462 C-M
Instruction Manual
Manual de instrucciones
WARNING
Read Instruction Manual thoroughly before use and
follow all safety precautions – improper use can cause
serious or fatal injury.
ADVERTENCIA
Antes de usar la máquina lea y siga todas las precauciones
de seguridad dadas en el manual de instrucciones – el uso
incorrecto puede causar lesiones graves o mortales.
WARNING
This saw is capable of severe kickback which
may cause serious or fatal injury. Only for
users with extraordinary cutting needs and
experience and training dealing with kickback.
Chain saws with significantly reduced kickback
potential are available. STIHL recommends
the use of STIHL reduced kickback bar and
low kickback chain.
ADVERTENCIA
Esta sierra es capaz de causar contragolpes
severos, los cuales pueden causar lesiones
graves o mortales. Sólo es apta para usuarios
con necesidades extraordinarias de corte y
mucha experiencia y capacitación en el
manejo de los contragolpes. Existen sierras
con un potencial mucho menor de causar
contragolpes. STIHL recomienda usar una
barra y cadena de contragolpe reducido de
STIHL.
Instruction Manual
1 - 67
Manual de instrucciones
68 - 142
Contents
English
1 Introduction
2 Guide to Using this Manual
2.1 Signal Words
2.2 Symbols in Text
3 Main Parts
3.1 Chain Saw
4 Safety Symbols on the Product
4.1 Chain Saw
Original Instruction ManualPrinted on chlorine-free paper
5 IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS
5.1 Intended Use
5.2 Operator
5.3 Personal Protective Equipment
5.4 Chain Saw
5.5 Fueling Instructions
5.6 Using the Chain Saw
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6 Kickback and Other Reactive Forces
6.1 Reactive Forces
6.2 Kickback
6.3 Pull-in
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6.4 Pushback
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7 Proper Techniques for Basic Bucking, Limbing,
Pruning and Felling
7.1 Bucking
Printing inks contain vegetable oils, paper can be recycled.
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7.2 Cutting Logs Under Tension
7.3 Limbing
7.4 Pruning
7.5 Felling
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8 Maintenance, Repair and Storage
8.1 Warnings and Instructions
9 Before Starting Work
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9.1 Preparing the Chain Saw for Operation
10 Assembling the Chain Saw
10.1 Cutting Attachment
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10.2 Mounting and Removing the Guide Bar and
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Chain
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10.3 Tensioning the Chain
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11 Lubricating the Saw Chain and Guide Bar
11.1 Bar and Chain Lubricant
11.2 Filling the Chain Oil Tank
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11.3 Adjusting the Flow of Bar and Chain Oil
12 The Chain Brake
12.1 Engaging the Chain Brake
12.2 Disengaging the Chain Brake
12.3 Maintaining the Chain Brake
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13 Mixing Fuel and Refueling the Chain Saw
13.1 Mixing Fuel
13.2 Refueling the Chain Saw
14 Starting the Engine
14.1 Holding the Chain Saw
14.2 Starting the Engine
15 Shutting Off the Engine
15.1 Shutting Off the Engine
16 Checking the Chain Saw
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16.1 Checking the Operation of the Chain Brake
16.2 Testing the Controls
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16.3 Testing Chain Lubrication
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17 Adjusting the Carburetor
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17.1 STIHL M-Tronic Engine Management System
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17.2 Calibrating the Chain Saw
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17.3 Winter Operation
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17.4 Summer Operation
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18 After Finishing Work
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18.1 Preparing for Transportation or Storage
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19 Transporting
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19.1 Transporting the Chain Saw
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20 Storing
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© ANDREAS STIHL AG & Co. KG 2020
0458-790-8621-A. VA5.L20.
0000008245_006_GB
0458-790-8621-A
This instruction manual is protected by copyright. All rights reserved, especially the rights to reproduce, translate and process
with electronic systems.
1
English
Contents
20.1 Storing the Chain Saw
21 Cleaning
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21.1 Cleaning the Chain Saw
21.2 Cleaning the Guide Bar and Saw Chain
21.3 Cleaning the Air Filter
21.4 Cleaning the Spark Plug
22 Inspection and Maintenance
22.1 Inspection and Maintenance Chart
22.2 Inspecting and Maintaining the Chain Saw
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22.3 Inspecting and Maintaining the Chain Sprocket
22.4 Inspecting and Maintaining the Guide Bar
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22.5 Inspecting, Maintaining and Sharpening the Saw
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Chain
23 Troubleshooting Guide
23.1 Chain saw
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23.2 Clearing the Combustion Chamber
24 Specifications
24.1 EPA
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24.2 STIHL MS 462 C-M
24.3 Chain Sprockets
24.4 Minimum Groove Depth of Guide Bars
24.5 Depth Gauge Setting
24.6 Symbols on the Chain Saw
24.7 Engineering Improvements
25 Combinations of Guide Bars and Saw Chains
25.1 STIHL MS 462 C-M
26 Replacement Parts and Equipment
26.1 Genuine STIHL Replacement Parts
27 Disposal
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27.1 Disposal of the Chain Saw
28 Limited Warranty
28.1 STIHL Incorporated Limited Warranty Policy
29 Emission Control Warranty
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29.1 STIHL Incorporated Federal Emission Control
Warranty Statement
30 Trademarks
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30.1 Registered Trademarks
30.2 Common Law Trademarks
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31 Addresses
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31.1 STIHL Incorporated
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0458-790-8621-A
1 Introduction
English
1Introduction
Thank you for your purchase. The information contained in
this manual will help you receive maximum performance and
satisfaction from your STIHL chain saw and, if followed,
reduce the risk of injury from its use.
SAVE THIS MANUAL!
Because a chain saw is a high-speed woodcutting tool, special safety precautions must be
observed to reduce the risk of personal injury.
Read this instruction manual thoroughly before
use and periodically thereafter. Follow all safety
precautions. Careless or improper use of the
chain saw can cause serious or fatal injury.
Have your authorized STIHL servicing dealer show you how
to operate your chain saw. All safety precautions that are
generally observed when working with an axe or a hand saw
also apply to the operation of chain saws. Observe all
applicable federal, state and local safety regulations,
standards and ordinances.
Do not lend or rent your chain saw without this instruction
manual. Allow only persons who have the proper training
and fully understand the information in this manual to
operate the chain saw.
For further information, or if you do not understand any of
the instructions in this manual, please go to
www.stihlusa.com or contact your authorized STIHL
servicing dealer.
DANGER
Indicates a hazardous situation that, if not avoided, will
result in death or serious injury.
WARNING
Indicates a hazardous situation that, if not avoided, could
result in death or serious injury.
NOTICE
Indicates a risk of property damage, including damage to the
machine or its individual components.
2.2 Symbols in Text
The following symbol is included to assist you with the use
of the manual:
Refers to a designated chapter or sub-chapter in this
instruction manual.
2 Guide to Using this Manual
2.1 Signal Words
This manual contains safety information that requires your
special attention. Such information is introduced with the
following symbols and signal words:
0458-790-8621-A
3
English
23
22
27
15
14
17
16
0000-GXX-3166-A0
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29
28
21
18
20
19
9
10
11
#
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12
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
24
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25
3 Main Parts
3Main Parts
3.1 Chain Saw
1 Front Hand Guard
Helps protect the operator's left hand from projecting
branches and contact with the saw chain. Serves as the
activation lever for the chain brake.
2 Muffler with Spark Arresting Screen
Reduces engine exhaust noise and diverts exhaust
gases away from the operator. The spark arresting
screen is designed to reduce the risk of fire.
3 Bumper Spike
Helps hold the saw steady against the wood during
cutting.
4Saw Chain
Toothed cutting tool consisting of cutters, tie straps and
drive links.
5 Guide Bar
Supports and guides the saw chain.
6 Chain Catcher
Helps contain the saw chain and reduce the risk of
operator contact in the event the chain breaks or comes
off the bar.
7 Side Chain Tensioner
Permits precise adjustment of saw chain tension.
8 Chain Sprocket
Drives the saw chain.
9 Chain Sprocket Cover
Covers the chain sprocket.
10 Nuts
Tighten the chain sprocket cover to the chain saw.
11 Shroud
Covers the air filter and engine.
12 Shroud Lock
Lock for the shroud.
13 Front Handle
Handle for the operator's left hand.
14 Decompression Valve (not available on all models)
Makes starting easier.
4
0458-790-8621-A
4 Safety Symbols on the Product
English
15 Spark Plug
Ignites the fuel-air mix in the engine.
16 Shutter for Summer or Winter Operation
With summer and winter positions. Carburetor is heated
in winter position.
17 Spark Plug Boot
Connects the spark plug with the ignition lead.
18 Air Filter
Filters the air drawn into the engine.
19 Throttle Trigger Lockout
Prevents activation of the throttle trigger until depressed.
20 Rear Handle
Handle for the operator's right hand.
21 Rear Hand Guard
Helps protect the operator's right hand in the event the
chain breaks or comes off the bar.
22 Throttle Trigger
Controls the speed of the engine.
23 Master Control Lever
Lever for choke control, starting throttle, run and stop
switch position.
24 Fuel Filler Cap
Closes and seals the fuel tank.
25 Starter Grip
The grip of the pull starter for starting the engine.
26 Oil Flow Adjusting Screw
For adjusting the amount of chain oil.
27 Oil Adjustment Limiter
Limits travel of oil flow adjusting screw.
28 Oil Filler Cap
Closes and seals the oil tank.
29 Chain Scabbard
Covers the guide bar and saw chain to reduce the risk of
injury from inadvertent contact during transportation and
storage.
Clutch (not illustrated)
Engages the chain sprocket when the engine is
accelerated beyond idle speed.
Anti-Vibration System (not illustrated)
The anti-vibration system includes a number of antivibration elements designed to reduce the transmission
of vibration created by the engine and cutting attachment
to the operator's hands.
# Rating Plate
Contains the product's serial number.
4 Safety Symbols on the Product
4.1 Chain Saw
The following safety symbols are found on the chain saw:
To reduce the risk of injury, follow the specified
safety precautions.
Read and follow all safety precautions in the
instruction manual. Improper use can lead to
serious or fatal personal injury or property
damage.
To reduce the risk of serious personal injury and
hearing loss, always wear proper eye protection,
hearing protection and an approved protective
helmet, @ 5.3.
Avoid contact of the bar tip with any object. This
can cause the bar to kick suddenly up and back,
which may result in serious or fatal injury. Always
use two hands to operate the saw, @ 6.
0458-790-8621-A
5
English
5 IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS
5 IMPORTANT SAFETY
INSTRUCTIONS
5.1 Intended Use
WARNING
￭ This chain saw is designed for cutting trees, branches and
limbs. Use of the chain saw for operations different than
intended could result in serious injury or death.
– Cut wood only. For example, do not use chain saw
for cutting metal, plastic or masonry.
– Read and follow the operating and use instructions
in this manual for approved applications and
recommended working techniques.
￭ Observe all applicable federal, state and local safety
regulations, standards and ordinances.
– When using a chain saw for logging purposes, for
instance, refer to the OSHA regulations for "logging
operations" at 29 Code of Federal Regulations
1910.266.
￭ Improper use could result in personal injury or property
damage, including damage to the chain saw.
– Use the chain saw only as described in this manual.
– Never attempt to modify or override the chain saw's
controls or safety devices in any way.
– Never use a chain saw that has been modified or
altered from its original design.
5.2 Operator
WARNING
￭ Working with the chain saw can be strenuous. The
operator must be in good physical condition and mental
health. To reduce the risk of personal injury from fatigue
and loss of control:
– Check with your doctor before using the chain saw if
you have any health condition that may be
aggravated by strenuous work.
– Do not operate the chain saw while under the
influence of any substance (drug, alcohol or
medication, etc.) that might impair vision, balance,
dexterity or judgment.
– Be alert. Do not operate the chain saw when you are
tired. Take a break if you become tired.
– Do not permit minors to use the chain saw.
– Bystanders, especially children, and animals should
not be allowed in the area where the chain saw is in
use.
￭ Prolonged use of a chain saw (or other power tools)
exposing the operator to vibration may produce white
finger disease (Raynaud's phenomenon) or carpal tunnel
syndrome. These conditions reduce the hand's ability to
feel and regulate temperature. They produce numbness
and burning sensations and may also cause nerve and
circulation damage as well as tissue necrosis.
￭ All factors which contribute to white finger disease are not
known. Cold weather, smoking and diseases or physical
conditions that affect blood vessels and blood transport,
as well as high vibration levels and long periods of
exposure to vibration, are mentioned as factors in the
development of white finger disease.
6
0458-790-8621-A
5 IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS
English
￭ STIHL chain saws are equipped with an anti-vibration
("AV") system designed to reduce the transmission of
vibration from the saw to the operator's hands. To reduce
the risk of white finger disease and carpal tunnel
syndrome:
– Wear gloves while working and keep your hands
warm.
– Keep the chain saw and its AV system well
maintained. A chain saw with loose components or
with damaged or worn AV elements will tend to have
higher vibration levels.
– Keep the saw chain sharp. A dull chain will increase
cutting time, and pressing a dull chain through wood
will increase the vibration transmitted to your hands.
– Maintain a firm grip at all times, but do not squeeze
the handles with constant, excessive pressure. Take
frequent breaks.
￭ These precautions do not guarantee that you will not
sustain white finger disease or carpal tunnel syndrome.
– Closely monitor the condition of your hands and
fingers if you are a regular operator.
– Seek medical advice immediately if any of the above
symptoms appear.
￭ The ignition system of this machine produces an
electromagnetic field of a very low intensity. This field may
interfere with some pacemakers or implanted medical
devices. To reduce the risk of injury:
– Persons with a pacemaker or other implanted
medical device should consult their physician and
the device manufacturer before operating this chain
saw.
5.3 Personal Protective Equipment
WARNING
￭ To reduce the risk of personal injury:
– Always wear proper clothing and protective apparel,
including proper eye protection.
￭ Loss of control and severe cut injuries may result if hair,
clothing or apparel make contact with the moving saw
chain or otherwise become entangled in the components
of the saw. To reduce the risk of severe personal injury:
– Wear sturdy and snug-fitting clothing that
also allows complete freedom of
movement.
– Wear the type of overalls, long pants or
chaps that contain pads of cut-retardant
material.
– Wear a long-sleeve shirt or jacket.
– Avoid loose-fitting jackets, scarves, neckties, flared
or cuffed pants, jewelry and any other apparel that
could be caught on branches, brush or the moving
chain.
– Secure hair above shoulder level before starting
work.
￭ To reduce the risk of eye injury:
– Always wear goggles or close-fitting
protective glasses with adequate top and
side protection that are impact-rated and
marked as complying with ANSI Z87 "+".
– To reduce the risk of injury to your face, STIHL
recommends that you also wear a face shield or face
screen over your goggles or protective glasses.
￭ To reduce the risk of head injury from falling branches or
other objects encountered during work:
– Wear an approved protective helmet.
￭ Prolonged exposure to power tool noise may result in
permanent hearing damage. To reduce the risk of hearing
damage:
0458-790-8621-A
7
English
5 IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS
– Wear sound barriers (ear plugs or ear
muffs).
– Regular operators should have their
hearing checked periodically.
– Be particularly alert and cautious when
using hearing protection. Your ability to
hear shouts, alarms or other audible
warnings is restricted.
￭ Good footing is very important. To help maintain a secure
footing and reduce the risk of injury while working:
– Wear sturdy boots with non-slip soles.
Steel-toed safety boots are
recommended. Do not wear sandals, flipflops, open-toed or similar footwear.
￭ To improve your grip and help protect your hands:
– Always wear heavy-duty non-slip work
gloves made of leather or another wearresistant material when handling the
chain saw or its chain.
5.4 Chain Saw
WARNING
￭ The saw chain has many sharp cutters. Contacting the
cutters may result in serious laceration injuries, even if the
chain is not moving. To reduce the risk of such injuries:
– Keep hands, feet and other parts of your body away
from the chain.
– Wear heavy-duty work gloves when handling the
chain saw or its chain.
– Never touch a moving chain with your hand or any
other part of your body.
– Cover the guide bar with a chain scabbard before
transporting or storing the chain saw to reduce the
risk of injury from inadvertent contact.
￭ Reactive forces, including kickback, can be dangerous.
– Pay special attention to the section of this instruction
manual on "Kickback and Other Reactive Forces,"
@ 6.
￭ To reduce the risk of personal injury to the operator and
bystanders:
– Always release the throttle trigger, engage the chain
brake and shut off the engine before assembling,
transporting, adjusting, inspecting, cleaning,
servicing, maintaining or storing the chain saw.
– Shut off the chain saw anytime it is not in use.
￭ To reduce the risk of fire and explosion:
– Only use the spark plug specified in this instruction
manual and make sure it and the ignition lead are
clean and in good condition.
– Always press the spark plug boot snugly onto the
spark plug terminal of the proper size.
– Never test the ignition system with the spark plug
boot removed from the spark plug or with a removed
spark plug.
￭ Although certain unauthorized attachments may fit your
STIHL chain saw, their use may be extremely dangerous.
Only attachments supplied by STIHL or expressly
approved by STIHL for use with this specific model are
recommended.
– Use only attachments supplied or expressly
approved by STIHL.
– Never modify this chain saw in any way.
– Never attempt to modify or override the chain saw's
controls or safety devices in any way.
– Never use a chain saw that has been modified or
altered from its original design.
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5 IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS
￭ Any modification to your muffler or spark arresting screen
could cause an increase in heat radiation, sparks or sound
level, thereby increasing the risk of fire, burn injury or
hearing loss. You may also permanently damage the
engine.
– Never modify your muffler or spark arresting screen.
￭ If the chain saw is dropped or subjected to similar heavy
impacts:
– Check that it is undamaged, in good condition and
functioning properly before continuing work.
– Check that the fuel system is tight and has no leaks.
– Check that the controls and safety devices, including
the chain brake, are working properly, @ 16.
– Never work with a damaged or malfunctioning chain
saw. In case of doubt, have the chain saw checked
by your authorized STIHL servicing dealer.
￭ Genuine STIHL replacement parts are specifically
designed to match your chain saw and meet safety and
performance requirements. Use of parts that are not
authorized or approved by STIHL may cause serious or
fatal injury or property damage.
– STIHL recommends that only identical STIHL
replacement parts be used.
5.5 Fueling Instructions
Fuel
WARNING
￭ Gasoline and its vapors are extremely flammable. Your
STIHL chain saw uses an oil-gasoline mixture for fuel. If
spilled and ignited by a spark or other ignition source, it
can cause fire and serious burn injury or property damage.
– Use extreme caution when handling
gasoline or fuel mix.
– Do not smoke or bring any fire or flame
near the fuel or the chain saw.
– Note that combustible fuel vapor may
escape from the fuel system.
English
Pick a Safe Location for Fueling
WARNING
￭ To reduce the risk of fire and explosion while fueling:
– Fuel your chain saw in a well-ventilated
area, outdoors away from flames, pilot
lights, heaters, electric motors, and other
sources of ignition. Vapors can be
ignited by a spark or flame many feet
away.
– Select bare ground for fueling and move
at least 10 ft. (3 m) from the fueling spot
before starting the engine.
– Wipe off any spilled fuel before starting
your chain saw.
– Take care not to get fuel on your
clothing. If this happens, change your
clothing immediately.
Allow the Saw to Cool Before Removing the Fuel Cap
WARNING
￭ Gasoline vapor pressure may build up inside the fuel tank.
The amount of pressure depends on a number of factors,
such as the fuel used, altitude, and temperature. To
reduce the risk of burns and other personal injury from
escaping gas, vapor and fumes:
– Always shut off the engine and allow it to cool before
removing the fuel cap.
￭ The engine is air cooled. When it is shut off, cooling air is
no longer drawn across the cylinder and engine
temperatures will rise for several minutes before starting
to cool. In hot environments, cooling will take longer. To
reduce the risk of burns and other personal injury from
escaping gas vapor and fumes:
– Allow the chain saw to cool. If you need to refuel
before completing a job, turn off the machine and
allow the engine to cool before opening the fuel tank.
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5 IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS
Fuel Spraying or "Geysering"
WARNING
￭ Removing the cap on a pressurized fuel tank can result in
gasoline, vapors and fumes being forcefully sprayed out
from the fuel tank in all directions. The escaping gasoline,
vapors or fumes can cause serious personal injury,
including fire and burn injury, or property damage.
￭ Sometimes also referred to as “fuel geysering,” fuel
spraying is an expulsion of fuel, vapors and fumes which
can occur in hot conditions, or when the engine is hot, and
the tank is opened without allowing the saw to cool
adequately. It is more likely to occur when the fuel tank is
half full or more.
￭ Pressure is caused by fuel and heat and can occur even if
the engine has not been running. When gasoline in the
fuel tank is heated (by ambient temperatures, heat from
the engine, or other sources), vapor pressure will increase
inside the fuel tank.
￭ Some blends of gasoline, particularly winter blends, may
cause tanks to pressurize more quickly or create greater
pressure. At higher altitudes, fuel tank pressurization is
more likely.
How to Avoid Fuel Spraying
– The engine is air cooled. When it is shut off, cooling
air is no longer drawn across the cylinder and the
engine temperature will rise for several minutes
before starting to cool.
￭ After the chain saw has cooled appropriately, follow the
safety instructions in this chapter for removing the cap.
– Never remove the cap by turning it directly to the
open position.
– First check for residual pressure by turning the cap
slowly to the vent position, approximately 1/8 turn
counter-clockwise.
– Use only good quality fuel that is appropriate for the
season (summer v. winter blends). Some blends of
gasoline, particularly winter blends, are more volatile
and can contribute to fuel spraying.
Removing the Toolless Fuel Cap: Turn Slowly and Stop in
the Vent Position
WARNING
￭
123
4
WARNING
￭ Removing the fuel cap on a pressurized tank can result in
gasoline, vapors and fumes being forcefully sprayed out
from the fuel tank in all directions. To reduce the risk of
burns, serious injuries or property damage from fuel
spraying:
– Follow the fueling instructions in this chapter.
– Always assume your fuel tank is pressurized.
– Allow the chain saw to cool before removing the fuel
cap.
– If you need to refuel before completing a job, turn off
the machine and allow the engine to cool before
removing the fuel cap.
– In hot environments, cooling will take longer.
10
5
0000-GXX-2144-A0
￭ After allowing the chain saw to cool, remove the fuel filler
cap slowly and carefully to allow any remaining pressure
build-up in the tank to release:
– Flip up the grip and press the cap down firmly (1).
– While maintaining steady, downward pressure, turn
the cap slowly counter-clockwise to the vent
position (2), approximately a 1/8 turn of the cap.
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5 IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS
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– If any significant venting occurs, immediately re-seal
the tank by turning the cap clockwise to the closed
position. Allow the saw to cool further before
attempting to open the tank.
– Turn the cap to the open position (3) only after the
contents of the tank are no longer under pressure. In
the open position, the exterior positioning mark (4)
on the cap will line up with the "unlocked" symbol (5)
on the fuel tank housing.
– Never remove the cap by turning it directly to the
open position without first allowing the saw to cool
adequately and then letting it release any residual
pressure at the vent position (2).
– Never attempt to remove the cap while the engine is
still hot or running.
Installing the Toolless Fuel Cap
WARNING
￭
1
4
1
￭ An improperly tightened fuel filler cap can loosen or come
off and spill quantities of fuel. To reduce the risk of fuel
spillage and fire from an improperly installed fuel cap,
correctly position and tighten the cap in the fuel tank
opening:
– Raise the grip on the top of the cap until it is upright
at a 90° angle. Insert the cap in the fuel tank opening
with the exterior positioning mark (1) lined up with
the "unlocked" symbol (2) on the fuel tank housing.
– Using the grip, press the cap down firmly while
turning it clockwise to the closed position
(approximately 1/4 turn). In the closed position, the
interior (4) and exterior (1) positioning marks will
align with the "locked" symbol (3) on the fuel tank
housing.
– Fold the grip flush with the top of the cap and check
for tightness.
– If the grip does not lie completely flush with the cap
or the detent on the grip does not fit in the
corresponding recess in the tank opening, or if the
cap is loose, the cap is not properly seated and you
must repeat the above steps. Refer to the procedure
below for returning the base of the cap to the proper
starting position for installation.
Misaligned, Damaged or Broken Cap
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WARNING
￭
2
3
A B C
0000-GXX-2935-A1
1
2
2
1
1
2
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5 IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS
￭ If the cap does not drop fully into the fuel tank opening
when the positioning marks (1, 2) line up, or if it does not
tighten properly when turned, the base of the cap may be
prematurely rotated in relation to the top. Such
misalignment can result from handling, cleaning or an
improper attempt at tightening.
– Illustrations A and B: The base of the cap is prematurely
rotated to the closed position and is not in the correct
starting position for installation. The tank will not seal in
this configuration. Note: in Illustrations A and B, the
interior positioning marks (1) are in line with the exterior
positioning marks (2).
– Illustration C: The bottom of the cap is in the correct
starting position for installation. Note: in Illustration C,
the interior positioning mark (1) is under the grip and not
in line with the outer positioning mark (2).
￭
￭ If your fuel cap still does not tighten properly, it may be
damaged or broken. Stop using the unit and take it to your
authorized STIHL dealer for repair.
Vapor Lock
WARNING
￭ Vapor lock occurs when fuel in the fuel line or carburetor
vaporizes, causing bubbles to block the free flow of liquid
fuel into the carburetor.
￭ Vapor lock cannot be relieved or affected by opening the
fuel tank. Removing the fuel filler cap without first allowing
the chain saw to cool adequately can result in fuel
spraying. Always follow the instructions in this section
when removing the fuel cap.
￭ To relieve vapor lock:
– Place the Master Control Lever in the start
position and try to start the chain saw, @ 14.
– If your chain saw will not restart, or if vapor lock
occurs again, the chain saw is being used in
conditions too extreme for the fuel being used.
Discontinue use and let the engine cool completely
before attempting to start the chain saw.
– Using good quality, fresh fuel (stored less than 30
days) also can help reduce the occurrence of vapor
lock.
￭ To return the base of the cap to the proper starting
position for installation:
– Drop the cap into the fuel tank opening (A).
– Turn the cap counter-clockwise with slight pressure
until it drops fully into the fuel tank opening
(approx. 1/4 turn) (B). This will rotate the base of the
cap into the correct starting position for
12
installation (C). The exterior positioning mark (1) on
the cap will line up with the "unlocked" symbol on the
fuel tank housing. The interior positioning mark (3)
should be under the grip and not in line with the outer
positioning mark (1).
– Then, turn the cap clockwise, closing it normally.
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5 IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS
English
5.6 Using the Chain Saw
5.6.1 Before Operation
WARNING
￭ Misuse or unauthorized use may result in personal injury
and property damage.
– Use the chain saw only as described in this
instruction manual.
￭ For proper assembly of the bar and chain:
– Read and follow the instructions on mounting the
guide bar and chain, @ 10.2.1.
￭ The chain, guide bar and sprocket must match each other
in gauge and pitch. Before mounting or replacing:
– Read the information on guide bar and chain
combinations, @ 25.
– Read and follow the instructions on kickback and
other reactive forces, @ 6.
– Select the shortest bar that will meet your cutting
needs. Longer bars add weight and may be more
difficult to control.
￭ Proper tension of the chain is extremely important to
maximize cutting performance and reduce the risk of
personal injury from chain breakage, derailment or
reactive forces:
– Never cut with a loose chain. If the chain becomes
loose while cutting, engage the chain brake and shut
off the engine before tightening the chain. Never
attempt to adjust the chain while the engine is
running.
– Read and follow the chain tensioning instructions,
@ 10.3.
– Always make sure the chain sprocket cover is
tightened securely after tensioning the chain in order
to secure the bar. Never start the chain saw with the
chain sprocket cover loose or missing.
– Check chain tension once more after tightening the
chain sprocket cover.
– After adjusting the chain, let the motor run for a
minute or two, then shut off the engine, engage the
chain brake and recheck chain tension.
– Check chain tension periodically thereafter at
regular intervals (only after engaging the chain brake
and shutting off the engine).
￭ To reduce the risk of fire and explosion:
– Check fuel system for leaks, especially the visible
parts, (e.g., filler cap, hose connections).
– Securely mount the spark plug boot on the spark
plug.
– Do not start the engine if the fuel system has leaks
or the saw is otherwise damaged. Have the chain
saw repaired by an authorized STIHL servicing
dealer before using it.
￭ Using a chain saw that is modified, damaged, improperly
adjusted or maintained, or not completely and securely
assembled can lead to a malfunction and increase the risk
of serious personal injury or death.
– Never operate a chain saw that is modified,
damaged, improperly maintained or not completely
and securely assembled.
– Always check your chain saw for proper condition
and operation before starting work, particularly the
throttle trigger, throttle trigger lockout, Master
Control Lever, front hand guard, chain brake and
cutting attachment.
– Ensure that the throttle trigger and throttle trigger
lockout move freely and always spring back to the
idle position when released. The throttle trigger must
not engage until the throttle trigger lockout is
depressed. The Master Control Lever must move
easily to STOP.
– Never attempt to modify or override the controls or
safety devices in any way.
– If your saw or any part is damaged or does not
function properly, take it to your authorized STIHL
servicing dealer. Do not use the saw until the
problem has been corrected.
0458-790-8621-A
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5 IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS
￭ Before starting the engine and disengaging the chain
brake, take the following steps to reduce the risk of
personal injury from reactive forces, loss of control or
inadvertent contact with the chain:
– Be sure that the guide bar and chain are clear of you
and all other obstructions and objects, including the
ground.
– Never attempt to start or accelerate the engine when
the guide bar is in a cut or kerf. Doing so could lead
to reactive forces and injury.
– Read and follow the instructions on starting the
chain saw, @ 14.
5.6.2 Starting
WARNING
￭ To reduce the risk of burns and other personal injury from
escaping gas vapor and fumes:
– Move at least 10 ft. (3 m) from the fueling spot before
starting the engine.
– Start your chain saw only outdoors.
￭ To reduce the risk of injury from chain contact and/or
reactive forces:
– Engage the chain brake before starting the chain
saw.
￭ To reduce the risk of serious or fatal injuries to the
operator or bystanders from loss of control:
– Start the chain saw only as described in the
"Starting" chapter in this manual, @ 14.
– Do not drop start. Drop starting means pushing the
chain saw away from the operator, or allowing it to
drop toward the ground, while pulling on the starter
grip. This method is very dangerous because you
may lose control of the chain saw.
– When you pull the starter grip, do not wrap the
starter rope around your hand.
– Do not let the grip snap back. Guide the starter rope
to rewind it properly.
– Be sure that the guide bar and chain are clear of you
and all other obstructions and objects, including the
ground. Never attempt to start the chain saw when
the guide bar is in a cut or kerf.
– Always engage the chain brake before starting.
When the engine is started, the engine speed with
the starting throttle lock engaged will be fast enough
for the clutch to engage the sprocket and, if the chain
brake is not activated, turn the chain.
– Once the engine has started, immediately blip the
throttle trigger, which should release the Master
Control Lever to the run position and allow the
engine to slow down to idle.
￭ Accelerating the engine while the chain brake is engaged
or the chain is otherwise blocked (i.e., not able to turn)
increases the load and will cause the clutch to slip
continuously. This may occur if the throttle is depressed
for more than a few seconds when the chain is pinched in
the cut or the chain brake is engaged. To reduce the risk
of overheating and damage to important components
(e.g., clutch, polymer housing components):
– Always disengage chain brake before accelerating
engine and before starting cutting work. The only
exception to this rule is when you check operation of
the chain brake.
5.6.3 Holding and Controlling the Chain Saw
0000-GXX-4119-A0
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5 IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS
0000-GXX-1889-A0
English
WARNING
￭ To maintain a firm grip and properly control your chain
saw:
– Keep the handles clean and dry at all times. Keep
them free of moisture, pitch, oil, grease and resin.
￭ To reduce the risk of serious or fatal injuries to the
operator or bystanders from loss of control:
– Avoid contacting any object with the
upper quadrant of the tip of the guide
bar. It may cause kickback to occur.
– Always hold the chain saw firmly with
both hands when you are working.
– Place your left hand on the front handle and your
right hand on the rear handle (see illustration). Left-
handers must follow these instructions too.
– Wrap your fingers tightly around the handles,
keeping the handles cradled between your thumb
and forefinger.
– Position the chain saw in such a way that all parts of
your body are clear of the cutting attachment
whenever the engine is running. Stand to the left of
the cut while bucking, outside of the cutting plane
(see illustration).
– Read and follow all warnings and instructions in the
chapter Kickback and Reactive Forces, @ 6.
￭ Operating the chain saw with one hand is extremely
dangerous. One-handed operation makes it difficult to
oppose and absorb reactive forces (pushback, pull-in,
kickback) without losing control of the chain saw. It also
makes it difficult to prevent the bar and chain from skating
or bouncing along a limb or log. To reduce the risk of
serious or fatal injury to the operator or bystanders from
loss of control:
– Never attempt to operate the chain saw
with one hand.
￭ To reduce the risk of serious or fatal cut injuries to the
operator or bystanders from loss of control, keep proper
footing and balance at all times:
– Take special care in overgrown or wet terrain and
always watch for hidden obstacles such as tree
stumps, roots, rocks, holes and ditches to avoid
stumbling or falling.
– Be extremely cautious when working on slopes or
uneven ground.
– For better footing, always clear away fallen
branches, scrub and cuttings. Freshly debarked logs
and other material can increase the danger of
slipping, tripping or falling.
– Use extreme caution when cutting small-size brush,
branches and saplings because slender material
may catch the chain and spring toward you or pull
you off balance.
￭ To reduce the risk of injury from loss of control:
– Never work on a ladder, roof, in a tree or
while standing on any other insecure
support.
– Never operate the chain saw above
shoulder height.
– Do not overreach. Keep proper footing and balance
at all times.
– Never attempt to start or accelerate the engine when
the guide bar is in a cut or kerf. Doing so could lead
to reactive forces and injury. Instead, remove the
guide bar from the cut and re-enter the cut at full
throttle, taking care to avoid contacting any object
with the tip of the guide bar.
0458-790-8621-A
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5 IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS
￭ The bumper spike is designed to provide greater control
of the chain saw while cutting. If you work without the
bumper spike, the chain saw may pull you forward
suddenly. This could cause loss of control or, if the tip of
the guide bar strikes an object, kickback.
– Position the bumper spike against the material you
are cutting and use it as a fulcrum.
– Always work with the bumper spike to maintain
better control of the saw.
￭ Applying pressure to the chain saw when reaching the end
of a cut may cause the bar and rotating chain to accelerate
out of the kerf, go out of control and strike the operator or
some other object. To reduce the risk of injury:
– Use caution when approaching the end of a cut.
– Never put pressure on the chain saw when reaching
the end of a cut.
– STIHL recommends that first-time chain saw users
work under the supervision of an experienced
operator.
5.6.4 Working Conditions
WARNING
￭ Operate your chain saw only under good visibility during
favorable daylight conditions.
– Postpone the work if the weather is windy, foggy,
rainy or inclement.
– Never cut near power lines.
￭ Your chain saw is a one-person machine.
– Do not allow other persons in the general work area.
– Bystanders, especially children, and animals should
not be allowed in the area where it is in use.
– Shut off the engine immediately if you are
approached. Engage the chain brake.
￭ To reduce the risk of injury to bystanders and
unauthorized users:
– Never leave the chain saw unattended when the
engine is running.
– Shut off the engine and engage the chain brake
during work breaks and any other time the chain saw
is not in use.
￭ To reduce the risk of fire and explosion:
– Never operate the chain saw in a location where
combustible gases, liquids, vapors, dusts or other
combustible materials and substances are present.
– Always move the Master Control Lever to stop
position 0 before pulling the starter grip if the spark
plug boot has been removed.
– Read and follow recommendations issued by
government authorities for identifying and avoiding
the hazards of combustible gases, liquids, vapors,
dusts or other combustible materials and
substances.
– Never modify the chain saw muffler or spark
arresting screen.
￭ If a rotating chain strikes a rock or other hard object,
sparks may be created, which can ignite flammable
materials under certain circumstances. Flammable
materials can include dry vegetation and brush,
particularly when weather conditions are hot and dry.
– When there is a risk of fire or wildfire, do not use your
chain saw around flammable materials or around dry
vegetation or brush.
– Contact your local fire authorities or the U.S. Forest
Service if you have any question about whether
vegetation and weather conditions are suitable for
the use of a chain saw.
￭ As soon as the engine is running, it generates toxic
exhaust gases containing chemicals, such as unburned
hydrocarbons (including benzene) and carbon monoxide,
that are known to cause respiratory problems, cancer,
birth defects, or other reproductive harm. Some of the
16
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English
gases (e. g. carbon monoxide) may be colorless and
odorless. To reduce the risk of serious or fatal injury or
illness from inhaling toxic exhaust gases:
– Never operate the chain saw indoors, in
confined spaces or other poorly
ventilated locations.
– If exhaust fumes become concentrated
due to insufficient ventilation, clear
obstructions from the work area. Ensure
proper ventilation before proceeding.
￭ Using this chain saw and sharpening its chain can
generate dust, oil mist and other substances containing
chemicals known to cause respiratory problems, cancer,
birth defects and other reproductive harm.
– Consult governmental agencies such as EPA,
OSHA, CARB and NIOSH and other authoritative
sources on hazardous materials if you are unfamiliar
with the risks associated with the particular
substances you are cutting or with which you are
working.
￭ Inhalation of certain dusts, especially organic dusts such
as mold or pollen, can cause susceptible persons to have
an allergic or asthmatic reaction. Substantial or repeated
inhalation of dust or other airborne contaminants,
especially those with a smaller particle size, may cause
respiratory or other illnesses. This includes wood dust,
especially from hardwoods, but also from some softwoods
such as Western Red Cedar.
– Control dust (such as saw dust) and mists (such as
oil mist from chain lubrication) at the source where
possible.
– Always work with a properly sharpened chain, which
produces wood chips rather than fine dust.
– To the extent possible, operate the chain saw so that
the wind or operating process directs any dust, mist
or other particulate matter raised by the chain saw
away from the operator.
– When respirable dust or other particulate matter
cannot be kept at or near background levels, always
wear a respirator that is approved by NIOSH and
rated for worksite-specific conditions. Follow the
recommendations of governmental authorities (e.g.,
OSHA/NIOSH) and occupational and trade
associations.
￭ If the vegetation being cut or the surrounding ground is
coated with a chemical substance, such as pesticide or
herbicide:
– Read and follow the instructions and warnings that
accompanied the substance coating the vegetation
or surrounding ground.
￭ Breathing asbestos dust is dangerous and can cause
severe or fatal injury, respiratory illness or cancer,
including mesothelioma. The use and disposal of
asbestos-containing products is strictly regulated by
OSHA and the EPA.
– Do not use your chain saw to cut or disturb asbestos
or asbestos-containing products.
– Stop work immediately and contact the relevant
state and local authorities and/or EPA, your
employer or local OSHA representative if you have
reason to believe that you might be disturbing
asbestos.
￭ Repeated contact with waste oil can cause skin cancer
and its use is harmful to the environment.
– Do not use waste oil to lubricate the bar and chain of
your STIHL chain saw.
5.6.5 Operating Instructions
WARNING
￭ In the event of an emergency:
– Shut off the engine immediately and engage the
chain brake.
￭ To reduce the risk of personal injury from loss of control
and/or contact with the chain:
– Do not use your chain saw with incorrect idle
adjustment. When the idle speed is correctly
adjusted, the chain should not move when the saw
0458-790-8621-A
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5 IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS
running at idle. If it does, have your STIHL dealer
check your chain saw and make proper adjustments
and repairs before use.
￭ To reduce the risk of severe personal injuries from
unintentional starting:
– Never touch a chain with your hand or any part of
your body when the engine is running, even when
the chain is not rotating.
￭ The chain continues to move for a short period after the
throttle trigger is fully released. This is known as the
"flywheel effect." To reduce the risk of serious personal
injury from contact with the chain:
– Wait for the chain to stop and engage the chain
brake before walking with the chain saw or putting it
down.
￭ Your chain saw is equipped with a chain catcher. It is
designed to reduce the risk of personal injury in the event
of a thrown or broken chain.
– Never operate the chain saw with a damaged or
missing chain catcher.
￭ Contacting foreign objects while sawing might cause the
chain to break or be thrown, or cause the chain saw to
propel dangerous debris or kick back in the direction of the
operator. To reduce the risk of severe or fatal personal
injury caused by contact with foreign objects:
– Inspect the tree, log or branch before cutting.
– Remove any foreign objects to ensure that the wood
is free of materials such as nails, spikes, cables, or
wires.
– Before starting a cut, ensure that it can be completed
without contacting surrounding objects or structures
such as fencing or stonework.
￭ Check the chain saw, chain and guide bar at regular short
intervals during operation, or immediately if there is a
change in cutting behavior:
– Shut off the engine and activate the chain brake.
– Have damaged, broken or excessively worn anti-
vibration elements replaced immediately. A
"sponginess" in the feel of the saw, increased
vibration or increased "bottoming" during normal
operation may indicate damage, breakage or
excessive wear.
– Anti-vibration elements should always be replaced in
sets. If you have any questions as to whether the
anti-vibration elements should be replaced, consult
your authorized STIHL servicing dealer.
– Check the condition and tension of the chain. Look
for damage to the chain or guide bar.
– If the chain cannot be properly tensioned, or if other
components of the saw are worn or damaged, stop
work immediately and take your chain saw to an
authorized STIHL servicing dealer for inspection,
repair or maintenance.
￭ The muffler and other parts of the engine (e.g. fins of the
cylinder, spark plug) become hot during operation and
remain hot for a while after stopping the engine. To reduce
the risk of burn injury:
– Allow the engine to cool before inspecting,
transporting or storing the chain saw. Avoid
contacting the muffler while it is still hot following
operation.
– Keep the area around the muffler clean. Remove
excess lubricant and all debris such as pine needles,
branches or leaves.
– Allow the chain saw to cool on concrete, metal, bare
ground or solid wood (e.g. the trunk of a felled tree)
away from any combustible substances.
– Do not continue work with a damaged or improperly
mounted cylinder housing or a damaged/deformed
muffler shell. It may interfere with the cooling
process of the muffler.
￭ The muffler of this chain saw is furnished with a spark
arresting screen. If your gas/oil mix ratio is correct (i.e.,
not too rich), this screen will normally stay clean as a
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result of the heat from the muffler and need no service or
maintenance. To reduce the risk of fire from the emission
of hot particles:
– Never operate your chain saw with a missing or
damaged spark arresting screen.
– If you experience loss of performance and suspect a
clogged screen, have your muffler serviced. Some
state or federal laws or regulations may require a
properly maintained spark arrester for certain uses.
￭ In California, it is a violation of § 4442 or § 4443 of the
Public Resources Code to use or operate gasolinepowered tools on forest-covered, brush-covered or grasscovered land unless the engine's exhaust system is
equipped with a complying spark arrester that is
maintained in effective working order. The owner/operator
of this product is responsible for properly maintaining the
spark arrester. Other states or governmental
entities/agencies, such as the U.S. Forest Service, may
have similar requirements.
– Do not use your chain saw around flammable
materials or around vegetation or brush when there
is a risk of fire or wildfire.
– Contact your local fire authorities or the U.S. Forest
Service if you have any question about laws or
regulations relating to fire protection requirements.
DANGER
￭ To reduce the risk of electrocution:
– Never operate this chain saw in the
vicinity of any wires or cables that may
be carrying electric current.
– Never cut near power lines.
– Do not rely on the chain saw's insulation
against electric shock.
6 Kickback and Other Reactive Forces
6.1 Reactive Forces
WARNING
￭ Reactive forces may occur any time the chain is rotating.
Reactive forces can cause serious or fatal personal injury.
￭ The powerful forces used to cut wood can be reversed and
work against the operator. If the rotating saw chain is
suddenly and significantly slowed or stopped by contact
with any solid object such as a log or branch, or is
pinched, the reactive forces may occur instantly.
￭ These reactive forces may result in loss of control, which,
in turn, may cause serious or fatal injury.
– An understanding of the causes of these reactive
forces may help you avoid the element of surprise
and loss of control. Surprise contributes to
accidents.
The most common reactive forces are:
– Kickback
– Pull-in
– Pushback
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6 Kickback and Other Reactive Forces
6.2 Kickback
6.2.1 Kickback
WARNING
Kickback may occur when the moving chain near
the upper quadrant of the bar nose contacts a
solid object or is pinched.
￭ When this occurs, the energy driving the chain can create
a force that moves the chain saw in a direction opposite to
the chain movement at the point where the chain is slowed
or stopped. This may fling the bar up and back in a
lightning fast reaction mainly in the plane of the bar and
can cause severe or fatal injury to the operator.
￭ Kickback may occur, for example, when the chain near the
upper quadrant of the bar nose contacts the wood or is
pinched during limbing or when it is incorrectly used to
begin a plunge or boring cut.
￭ The greater the force of the kickback reaction, the more
difficult it becomes for the operator to control the chain
saw. Many factors influence the occurrence and force of
the kickback reaction. These include chain speed, the
speed at which the bar and chain contact the object, the
location and angle of contact, the condition of the chain,
and how quickly the chain is slowed or stopped, among
other factors.
– The type of bar and chain you use is an important
factor in the occurrence and force of the kickback
reaction. Some STIHL bar and chain types are
designed to reduce kickback forces.
– STIHL recommends the use of reduced kickback
bars and low kickback chains.
6.2.2 Chain Saw Kickback Standards
The following standards apply with respect to kickback:
– § 5.11 of ANSI/OPEI B175.1
This standard, referred to as "the chain saw kickback
standard" in this chapter, sets certain performance and
design criteria related to chain saw kickback.
To comply with the chain saw kickback standard:
a)Chain saws with a displacement of less than 3.8 cu. in.
(62 cm³):
– must, in their original condition, meet a 45° computer-
derived kickback angle when equipped with certain
cutting attachments; and
– must be equipped with at least two devices to reduce
the risk of kickback injury, such as a chain brake, low
kickback chain, reduced kickback bar, etc.
b)Chain saws with a displacement of 3.8 cu. in. (62 cm³) and
above:
– must be equipped with at least one device designed to
reduce the risk of kickback injury, such as a chain brake,
low kickback chain, reduced kickback bar, etc.
The computer derived angles for chain saws below
3.8 cu. in. (62 cm³) displacement are measured by applying
a computer program to test results from a kickback test
machine.
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WARNING
￭ Compliance with the chain saw kickback standards does
not mean that the bar and chain will rotate at most 45° in
a real life kickback.
￭ The computer-derived angles of the chain saw standards
may bear no relationship to actual kickback bar rotation
angles that may occur in a real life cutting situation.
￭ Devices designed to reduce the risk of kickback injuries
may lose some of their effectiveness when they are no
longer in their original condition, especially if they have
been improperly maintained.
– Read and follow the safety precautions and
instructions in this manual.
– When working, always position the chain saw such
that your body is clear of the cutting attachment and
outside of the cutting plane.
– Follow the maintenance and service instructions in
this manual.
￭ For the chain saw to meet the chain saw kickback
standards, use only the following cutting attachments:
– Compliant bar and chain combinations listed in
"Combinations of Guide Bars and Saw Chains,"
@ 25;
– Other replacement bar and chain combinations
marked in accordance with the standards for use on
the chain saw; or
– Replacement chain designated "low kickback chain."
6.2.3 Devices for Reducing the Risk of Kickback Injury
The STIHL Quickstop chain brake and STIHL's greenlabeled, reduced kickback bars and green-labeled, low
kickback chains are designed to reduce the risk of kickback
injury.
1. STIHL Quickstop Chain Brake
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There are two mechanisms for activating the chain brake if
it is in a properly maintained condition:
– Manual Activation: If a kickback occurs, the chain saw
moves upwards toward the user in a rotating motion
around the front handle. The brake is designed to engage
if the left hand contacts the front hand guard, which is the
activation lever for the brake, and pushes it forward.
– Inertia Activation: All STIHL chain saws are equipped with
an inertia Quickstop chain brake. If the kickback impulse
is strong enough, this alone is sufficient to engage the
brake even without contacting the front hand guard.
WARNING
￭ To reduce the risk of kickback injury:
– Never use a saw if the chain brake does not function
properly.
– When in doubt, take the saw to an authorized STIHL
servicing dealer for inspection and/or repair.
– Do not use the saw until the problem has been
corrected.
￭ In a kickback situation, the front hand guard helps protect
your left hand from contacting the chain. Removal of the
front hand guard on a chain saw equipped with a
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6 Kickback and Other Reactive Forces
Quickstop chain brake will reduce this protection and also
disable the chain brake, increasing the risk of kickback
injury.
– Never operate your saw without a properly
functioning front hand guard. If the front hand guard
is missing, manual activation and inertia activation of
the chain brake will be completely disabled.
– Never attempt to remove, modify or disable the front
hand guard or any other component of the chain
brake.
￭
￭ No Quickstop chain brake or other chain brake device
prevents kickback. These devices are designed to reduce
the risk of injury, if activated, in certain kickback
situations. To reduce the risk of severe personal injury or
death from kickback:
– Always follow the instructions in this manual and
follow good working technique. For example,
position your body clear of the cutting attachment
whenever the engine is running. Stand to the left of
the cut while bucking, outside of the cutting plane,
see chapter "Holding and Controlling the Chain
Saw", @ 5.6.3.
– Maintain as much distance as possible, and never
less than 45 degrees, between the bar and your
body to ensure that the Quickstop chain brake has
sufficient time to activate and stop the chain before
reaching any part of your body.
– Follow the other precautions provided in chapter
@ 7.
￭ An improperly maintained chain brake may increase the
time needed to stop the chain after activation, or may not
activate at all. For the Quickstop chain brake to reduce the
risk of kickback injury, it must be properly maintained and
in good working order.
– Read and follow the instructions on engaging and
disengaging the chain brake, @ 12, and
maintaining and repairing it, @ 12.3.
2. Low Kickback Saw Chain and Reduced Kickback Bars
STIHL offers a variety of guide bars and chains. STIHL
reduced kickback bars and low kickback chains are
designed to reduce the risk of kickback injury. Other chains
are designed to achieve higher cutting performance or
sharpening ease, but are more prone to kickback and may
kick back with more energy, making it more difficult to
control the chain saw.
STIHL has developed a color code system to help you
identify the STIHL reduced kickback bars and low kickback
chains.
– Cutting attachments with green labels on the packaging
are designed to reduce the risk of kickback injury.
– Matching green-marked or labeled chain saws with green-
labeled bars and green-labeled chains provides
compliance with the computed kickback angle
requirements of the chain saw standards when the
products are in their original condition.
– Products with yellow labels are for users with
extraordinary cutting needs, who have experience and
specialized training for dealing with kickback.
STIHL recommends the use of its green-labeled reduced
kickback bars, green-labeled low kickback chains and a
chain saw equipped with a STIHL Quickstop chain brake for
both experienced and inexperienced operators.
STIHL recommends green-labeled bars and chains for all
chain saws. See your "STIHL Bar and Chain Information"
leaflet for details.
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New bar and chain combinations may be developed after
publication of this literature, which will, in combination with
certain chain saws, comply with the chain saw standards as
well.
WARNING
￭ Use of bar and chain combinations not listed in the STIHL
Bar and Chain Information leaflet (or other combinations
that do not comply with the chain saw standards) may
increase kickback forces as well as the propensity for
kickback and increase the risk of kickback injury.
– Please ask your authorized STIHL servicing dealer
to properly match your chain saw with the
appropriate bar and chain combination to reduce the
risk of kickback injury.
￭ Reduced kickback bars and low kickback chains do not
prevent kickback, but they are designed to reduce the risk
of kickback injury.
– STIHL recommends green-labeled bars and green-
labeled chains for all chain saws and all users.
￭ Even if your saw is equipped with a Quickstop chain
brake, a reduced kickback bar and/or low kickback chain,
this does not eliminate the risk of injury from kickback.
– Observe all safety precautions discussed in this
manual to avoid kickback situations.
a. Low Kickback Saw Chain
Some types of chain have specially designed components to
reduce the propensity for kickback and the force of kickback
if it occurs. STIHL has developed low kickback chain for your
chain saw.
A "low kickback chain" is a chain that has met the kickback
performance requirements of ANSI/OPEI B175.1 when
tested according to the provisions specified in ANSI/OPEI
B175.1.
been specifically certified to comply with the 45°
computer-derived kickback angle of the chain saw
standards.
– STIHL recommends green-labeled bars and green-
labeled chains for all chain saws and all users.
– Please see your STIHL Bar and Chain Information
leaflet for the appropriate bar and chain
combinations for your saw.
– Please ask your authorized STIHL servicing dealer
to properly match your chain saw with the
appropriate bar and chain combination to reduce the
risk of kickback injury.
￭ A blunt or incorrectly sharpened chain may reduce or
negate the effectiveness of design features intended to
reduce kickback energy and the propensity for kickback.
Improper lowering or sharpening of the depth gauges or
changing the shape of the cutters may increase the risk
and the energy of kickback.
– Always cut with a properly sharpened chain.
– Read and follow the instructions on sharpening a
chain, @ 22.5.
￭ Any chain saw mounted with a bow guide is potentially
very dangerous. The risk of kickback is increased with a
bow guide because of the increased kickback contact area
and because the design of bow guides places the upper
portion of the bar closer to the operator's body. Using a
low kickback chain will not significantly reduce the risk of
kickback injury when used on a bow guide.
– Never mount a bow guide on any STIHL chain saw.
b. Reduced Kickback Bars
STIHL green-labeled reduced kickback bars are designed to
reduce the risk of kickback injury when used with STIHL
green-labeled low kickback chains.
WARNING
￭ Some low kickback chains have not been tested with all
chain saw and bar combinations. There are potential saw,
bar and low kickback chain combinations which have not
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6 Kickback and Other Reactive Forces
WARNING
￭ When used with other, more aggressive chains,
green-labeled reduced kickback bars may be less
effective in reducing kickback.
– STIHL recommends green-labeled bars and green-
labeled chains for all chain saws and all users.
￭ For proper balance and to comply with the chain saw
standards:
– Use only bar lengths listed in this manual, @ 25.
6.2.4 To Avoid Kickback
The best protection from personal injury that may result from
kickback is to avoid kickback situations:
1)Hold the chain saw firmly and with both hands and
maintain a secure grip, with your right hand on the rear
handle and left hand on the front handle. Maintain a
secure grip with thumbs and fingers encircling the chain
saw handles. Don't let go.
2)Make sure the area in which you are cutting is free from
obstructions.
3)Be aware of the location of the guide bar nose at all times.
Never let the nose of the guide bar unintentionally contact
any object. Do not cut limbs with the nose of the guide bar.
Be especially careful near wire fences and when cutting
small, tough limbs, small size brush and saplings which
may easily catch the saw chain.
4)Do not overreach.
5)Do not cut above shoulder height.
6)Begin cutting and continue at full speed.
7)Cut only one log at a time.
8)Use extreme caution when re-entering a previous cut.
9)Do not attempt to plunge cut if you are not experienced
with this cutting technique.
10)Be alert for shifting of the log or other forces that may
cause the cut to close and pinch the saw chain.
11)Maintain saw chain properly. Cut with a correctly
sharpened, properly tensioned saw chain at all times.
12)Stand to the side of the cutting path of the chain saw.
13)Use only replacement bars and chains specified by
STIHL, or the equivalent.
6.3 Pull-in
WARNING
￭ Pull-in occurs when the chain on the bottom of the bar is
suddenly stopped or significantly slowed when it is
pinched, caught or encounters a foreign object in the
wood. The reaction of the chain pulls the saw forward and
may cause the operator to lose control, which, in turn, may
cause serious or fatal injury. If the tip contacts an object,
kickback may occur.
￭ Pull-in usually occurs when the bumper spike of the saw
is not held securely against the tree or limb and when the
chain is not rotating at full speed before it contacts the
wood.
￭ To reduce the risk of pull-in:
– Cut with a sharp, properly tensioned chain.
– Always start a cut with the chain rotating at full speed
and with the bumper spike in contact with the wood.
– Use wedges to open the kerf or cut, where possible.
– Use extreme caution when cutting small-size brush
and saplings which may easily catch the chain,
spring towards you or pull you off balance.
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6.4 Pushback
WARNING
￭ Pushback occurs when the chain on the top of the bar is
suddenly stopped or significantly slowed when it is
pinched, caught or encounters a foreign object in the
wood. The reaction of the chain may drive the saw rapidly
straight back toward the operator, causing loss of control
which, in turn, may cause serious or fatal injury.
￭ Pushback usually occurs when the top of the bar is used
for cutting.
￭ To reduce the risk of pushback:
– Be alert to forces or situations that may cause
material to pinch or bind the top of the chain.
– Do not cut more than one log at a time.
– Do not twist the chain saw when withdrawing the bar
from an underbuck cut because the chain can pinch
or bind.
– Cut with a sharp, properly tensioned chain.
￭ Be aware of rolling logs. Rolling logs can cause serious or
￭ To reduce the risk of kickback caused by contacting the
￭ When cutting splintered wood, sharp slivers of wood may
7 Proper Techniques for Basic Bucking,
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0000-GXX-4567-A0
WARNING
fatal personal injury. To prevent a log from rolling while
bucking:
– Make sure the log is secure and will not roll downhill
before starting your cut. If necessary, use sturdy
wedges, shims or chocks.
– If on a slope, always stand on the uphill side of the
log.
– Never stand on the log.
nose of the guide bar with other logs or limbs:
– Cut only one log at a time.
– Do not cut logs in a pile.
be caught and flung in the direction of the operator of the
saw or bystanders.
– Use caution when cutting splintered wood and
always wear appropriate apparel and personal
protective equipment, including eye protection.
– Keep bystanders out of the work area.
7.1 Bucking
Bucking is cutting a log into sections.
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7 Proper Techniques for Basic Bucking, Limbing, Pruning and Felling
￭ When cutting smaller logs, make sure the log is properly
supported to reduce the risk of personal injury from loss of
control of the chain saw or movement of the log. Small
logs can move when contacted by the teeth of the chain:
– Place logs through "V-shaped" supports on top of a
sawhorse whenever possible.
– Never permit another person to hold the log.
– Never stabilize the log with your leg or foot.
￭ Failing to control the saw at the bottom of a bucking cut
can cause severe personal injury or death.
– Prepare the saw to exit the bottom of the cut by
reducing the feed force you exert on the saw.
– Cushion the weight of the saw so that the bar and
chain are not thrust downward into your lower body
and legs as the bar/chain exits the cut.
When bucking:
► Position the bumper spike of the saw against the log and
use it as a fulcrum.
► Continually repositioning the bumper spike while pushing
the guide bar completely through the log.
7.2 Cutting Logs Under Tension
WARNING
￭ There is an increased danger of pinching the chain saw
when cutting logs under tension. The tension in wood can
also release suddenly and with great force, propelling the
log, limb or chain saw into the saw operator, causing injury
or loss of control.
￭ To reduce the risk of severe or fatal personal injury from
reactive forces, including kickback, or loss of control when
cutting wood under tension:
– Always start with a relieving cut (1) at the
compression side of the log, and then make a
bucking cut (2) at the tension side.
– If a pinch occurs that traps the bar/chain, shut off the
engine and activate the chain brake before
attempting to remove the saw from the log,
exercising caution that the limb does not suddenly
snap or release.
￭ Working in areas where logs, limbs and roots are tangled
is extremely dangerous.
– Drag the logs, limbs and other material to be cut into
a clear area before cutting. Pull out exposed and
cleared logs first. Do not cut where the tip of the bar
may come into contact with other logs, limbs or leafy
material.
26
7.3 Limbing
Limbing is removing the branches from a fallen tree.
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WARNING
￭ To prevent a log from rolling while limbing:
– Start limbing by leaving the limbs on the lower,
downhill side of the log to hold the log off the ground.
– Stabilize the log with sturdy wedges, shims or
chocks, if necessary.
– Never stand on a log while limbing it.
￭ There is an increased danger of kickback during limbing
operations, as limbs, leaves, stems and other material can
entangle (bind) the cutters of the chain in the upper
quadrant of the bar nose, causing the chain to slow or stop
suddenly.
– Do not use the nose of the bar to cut limbs.
– Be extremely cautious and avoid contacting the log,
the ground, other limbs and any leafy materials with
the nose of the guide bar.
￭ When underbucking freely hanging limbs, a pinch may
result or the limb may fall, hitting the operator or the chain
saw and causing loss of control.
– If a pinch occurs that traps or holds the bar or chain,
shut off the engine and activate the chain brake
before attempting to remove the saw from the cut,
exercising caution that the limb does not suddenly
snap or release.
￭ Limbs or logs under tension (spring poles) can spring back
toward you with great force, striking you or causing you to
lose control of the saw, resulting in severe or fatal injury.
– Be extremely cautious when cutting limbs or logs
that may be under tension.
– Read and follow the warnings and instructions on
cutting logs under tension, @ 7.2.
When limbing:
► Rest the chain saw on the log.
► Stand on the side of the log opposite the limb to be cut if
it can be done safely.
► Push the guide bar at full throttle with a hinge motion
against the branch.
► Cut the branch with the top or the bottom side of the guide
bar, keeping the tip of the bar free of the log, the ground,
other limbs and any leafy materials.
7.4 Pruning
Pruning is selectively removing branches from a standing
tree.
WARNING
￭ To reduce the risk of injury from loss of control:
– Do not use the chain saw one-handed.
– Never work on a ladder, on a roof, in a tree or while
standing on any other insecure support.
– Never operate the chain saw above shoulder height
or cut overhead.
– Do not overreach.
– If you are unable to follow these instructions, you
must use a different tool, such as a pole pruner, or
have the work performed by a reputable tree service.
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￭ To reduce the risk of injury:
– Never stand directly underneath the branch you are
cutting.
– Watch for falling branches. As soon as the branch
starts to fall, step aside and keep a sufficient
distance away from the falling wood. A branch may
spring back at you after it hits the ground.
– Prior to beginning work, clear the work area of limbs
and brush to reduce the risk of tripping and losing
control of the chain saw.
To cut branches from a standing tree:
2
1
► Make the first cut (1) on the underside of the branch,
approximately 2 in. (5 cm) from the trunk. Cut through
approximately 1/4 of the diameter of the branch. This will
help prevent the branch from splintering after it is cut.
► Make the second cut (2) on the top side of the branch,
approximately 2 in. (5 cm) from the first cut.
► As soon as the branch starts to fall, withdraw the chain
saw and let the branch fall to the ground.
7.5 Felling
7.5.1 Felling Conditions
Felling is cutting down a tree. Before felling a tree, carefully
consider all of the conditions that may affect the direction of
fall.
WARNING
￭ Before starting the felling operation, make sure the saw
you are using has sufficient size, power and adequate fuel
to complete the felling operation efficiently.
￭ There are a number of factors that may affect and change
the intended direction of fall, e.g. wind direction and
speed, lean of tree, surrounding trees and obstacles,
sloping ground, one-sided limb or foliage structure, wood
structure, decay, snow load, etc.
– To reduce the risk of severe or fatal injury to yourself
or others, look for, analyze and plan for these
conditions prior to beginning the cut, and be alert for
a change in direction while the tree is falling.
￭ Felling a tree that has a diameter greater than twice the
effective cutting length of the guide bar requires use of
either the sectioning felling back cut or plunge-cut
method. These methods can be extremely dangerous
because they involve the use of the nose of the guide bar
and can result in kickback. Only properly trained
professionals should attempt these techniques. If you are
inexperienced with a chain saw, plunge-cutting should not
be attempted. Seek the help of a qualified professional.
￭ Before starting any felling operation, make sure the saw
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you are using has sufficient size, power and adequate fuel
to complete the felling operation. Never attempt to fell a
large diameter tree with a chain saw that lacks the bar
length, power or run-time to complete the task efficiently.
￭ Trees that are split, decayed or rotted inside or that are
leaning or otherwise under tension are more likely to snap
or split while being cut, causing serious or fatal injury to
the operator or bystanders.
– Always observe and be aware of the general
condition of the tree.
– Inexperienced users should never attempt to cut
such trees.
– Also look for broken or dead branches which could
vibrate loose and fall on the operator during the
felling operation. Certain types of trees are more
susceptible to this condition, such as Douglas firs.
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You should check with a reputable tree service if you
have questions about the stability of the trees you
will be cutting.
– When felling on a slope, the operator should stand
on the uphill side if possible.
When felling:
1 1
► Maintain a distance of at least 2 1/2 tree lengths from the
nearest person or structure.
► Take extra precautions in the vicinity of roads, railways
and power lines. Inform the police, utility company or
railway authority before beginning to cut.
7.5.2 Escape Path
Before making your first cut, prepare an escape path:
1
2
/
1
2
2
/
► First clear limbs and brush from the area around the base
of the tree. Remove vegetation from the lower portion of
the tree with an axe.
► Next, establish at least two clear paths of escape (B) and
remove any obstacles such as brush, small trees and
other vegetation. These paths should lead away from the
planned direction of the tree's fall (A) at a 45° angle from
the expected fall line. Place all tools and equipment a safe
distance away from the tree, but not on the escape paths.
7.5.3 Conventional Notch
For a conventional notch:
C
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C
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► The felling notch determines the direction of the tree's fall.
Make the felling notch perpendicular to the line of fall you
have determined, close to the ground.
► Be aware of conditions such as wind, limb and foliage
structure, tree lean, the slope of the terrain and other
factors that could alter the direction of fall.
► Cut down at a 45° angle to a depth of approximately 1/5 to
1/4 of the trunk diameter.
► Make a horizontal cut that meets the bottom of the first cut.
► Remove the resulting 45° piece. The size of the wedge will
vary by tree size. The larger the tree, the larger the wedge.
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7 Proper Techniques for Basic Bucking, Limbing, Pruning and Felling
7.5.4 Open-faced Notch
For an open-faced notch:
C
C
► The felling notch determines the direction of the tree's fall.
Make the felling notch perpendicular to the line of fall you
have determined, close to the ground.
► Be aware of conditions such as wind, limb and foliage
structure, tree lean, slope of the terrain and other factors
that could alter the direction of fall.
► Cut down at a 50° angle to a depth of approximately 1/5 to
1/4 of the trunk diameter.
► Make a second cut that meets the bottom of the first cut
from below at a 40° angle.
► Remove the resulting 90° piece. The size of the wedge will
vary by tree size. The larger the tree, the larger the wedge.
7.5.5 Sapwood Cuts
Sapwood cuts help prevent soft woods in summer from
splintering when they fall:
0000-GXX-1439-A1
► Make cuts at both sides of the trunk, at the same height as
the subsequent felling back cut.
► Cut no deeper than the width of guide bar.
7.5.6 Felling Back Cut
WARNING
￭ If the tip of the bar contacts a wedge that has been used
to help keep the kerf or cut open, it may cause kickback.
Wedges should be of wood or plastic and never steel,
which can damage the chain.
￭ Whichever felling method you select, never cut through
the hinge when making your felling back cut. The hinge
helps control the fall of the tree. Cutting through the hinge
will eliminate the feller's ability to control the tree's fall and
may result in serious or fatal personal injury or property
damage.
￭ In order to reduce the risk of personal injury, never stand
directly behind the tree when it is about to fall, since part
of the trunk may split and come back towards the operator
(barber-chairing), or the tree may jump backwards off the
stump.
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7 Proper Techniques for Basic Bucking, Limbing, Pruning and Felling
D
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English
￭ Always keep to the side of the falling tree. When the tree
starts to fall, withdraw the bar, release the trigger switch,
engage the chain brake and walk away briskly on the preplanned escape path.
￭ Watch out for limbs falling from the felled tree.
￭ Be extremely careful with partially fallen trees. When the
tree hangs or for some other reason does not fall
completely, set the saw aside and pull the tree to the
ground with a cable winch, block and tackle or tractor.
Trying to cut it down with your saw is extremely dangerous
and may result in serious or fatal injury. Trees of this
nature can fall suddenly and often are under tension.
The tree is brought down with the felling back cut (D).
7.5.7 Fan Cut
Use the simple fan cut for making the felling back cut on
trees with a diameter less than the effective cutting length of
the guide bar.
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► After creating the felling notch, engage the bumper spikes
of the chain saw directly behind the location of the
intended hinge and 1 to 2 in. (2.5 to 5 cm) higher than the
bottom of the felling notch. Pivot the saw around this point
only as far as the back of the hinge. Do not cut through the
hinge. The bumper spike should roll against the trunk until
the back cut is complete.
7.5.8 Sectioning Method
For both conventional and open-faced notches:
► Begin 1 to 2 in. (2.5 to 5 cm) higher than the bottom of the
felling notch.
► Cut horizontally toward the felling notch.
► Leave approximately 1/10 of the diameter of the tree
uncut. This is the hinge (E) that will help control the fall of
the tree.
► Do not cut through the hinge because you could lose
control of the direction of the fall.
► If necessary, wedges can be driven into the felling back
cut to keep the cut open and to help control the direction
of the fall. For example, if a tree tends to "sit back,"
causing a bind of the saw, wedges can be used to re-
position it.
0458-790-8621-A
WARNING
This method is extremely dangerous because it involves the
use of the nose of the guide bar and can result in kickback.
If you are inexperienced with a chain saw, plunge-cutting
should not be attempted. Seek the help of a professional.
31
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7 Proper Techniques for Basic Bucking, Limbing, Pruning and Felling
Use the sectioning method for making the felling back cut on
trees with a diameter more than the effective cutting length
of the guide bar.
3
1
2
4
► After creating the felling notch, make the first part of the
felling back cut with the guide bar fanning in toward the
hinge and 1 to 2 in. (2.5 to 5 cm) higher than the bottom of
the felling notch. Pivot the saw around this point only as
far as the back of the hinge. Do not cut through the hinge.
► When repositioning for the next cut, keep the guide bar
fully engaged in the kerf to keep the felling back cut
straight. If the saw begins to pinch, insert a wedge to open
the cut. On the last cut, do not cut the hinge.
► Avoid repositioning the saw more than necessary.
7.5.9 Plunge-cut Method
Use the plunge-cut method for making the felling back cut on
trees with a diameter more than twice the effective cutting
length of the guide bar.
3
4
2
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► After creating a large felling notch, begin the plunge cut by
applying the lower portion of the guide bar nose to the tree
at an angle. Cut until the depth of the kerf is about the
same as the width of the guide bar. Next, align the saw in
the direction in which the recess is to be cut.
► With the saw at full throttle, insert the guide bar in the
trunk.
► Enlarge the plunge cut as illustrated in the illustration
above.
► Follow the sectioning method described previously to
make the felling back cut.
1
0000-GXX-1443-A1
WARNING
This method is extremely dangerous because it involves the
use of the nose of the guide bar and can result in kickback.
If you are inexperienced with a chain saw, plunge-cutting
should not be attempted. Seek the help of a professional.
32
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8 Maintenance, Repair and Storage
English
8 Maintenance, Repair and Storage
8.1 Warnings and Instructions
WARNING
￭ There are no user-authorized repairs for the chain saw. To
reduce the risk of fire or other personal injury and property
damage:
– Users may carry out only the cleaning and
maintenance operations described in this manual.
– Strictly follow the cleaning and maintenance
instructions in the appropriate sections of this
instruction manual.
– STIHL recommends that all repair work be
performed by authorized STIHL servicing dealers.
￭ To reduce the risk of personal injury and property damage
from unintentional starting:
– Shut off the engine and engage the chain brake by
moving the front hand guard forward before
inspecting the chain saw or carrying out any
cleaning, maintenance or repair work. Always shut
off the engine before storing the chain saw, and any
other time it is not in use.
￭ Proper maintenance will help maintain cutting
performance and reduce the risk of personal injury caused
by chain derailment and reactive forces.
– Wear gloves when handling the saw chain.
– Keep the chain, guide bar and sprocket clean.
– Replace the chain and guide bar when they become
worn or damaged.
– Keep the chain sharp and at proper tension.
– Tighten all nuts, bolts and screws after each use.
￭ Like an automobile brake, the chain brake on your chain
saw incurs wear each time it is engaged. In order for the
chain brake on your STIHL chain saw to function properly,
it must be properly maintained. Return the chain saw to
your STIHL servicing dealer for periodic inspection and
servicing of the brake system according to the following
schedule:
– Heavy Usage: every 3 months
– Moderate Usage: every 6 months
– Occasional Usage: every 12 months
￭ Return the chain saw immediately for maintenance
whenever the brake system cannot be thoroughly cleaned
or there is a change in its operating characteristics.
￭ Use of parts that are not authorized or approved by STIHL
may cause serious or fatal injury or property damage.
– STIHL recommends that only identical STIHL
replacement parts be used for repair or
maintenance.
￭ Improper storage can result in unauthorized use, damage
to the chain saw and an increased risk of fire and other
personal injury or property damage.
– Shut off the engine and engage the chain brake by
moving the front hand guard forward before storing.
– Store the chain saw indoors in a dry, secure place
that cannot be accessed by children or other
unauthorized users.
9 Before Starting Work
9.1 Preparing the Chain Saw for Operation
Before starting work:
► Mount the guide bar and saw chain, @ 10.2.1.
► Tension the chain, @ 10.3.
► Fill the chain oil tank, @ 11.2.
► Refuel the chain saw, @ 13.2.
► Check the chain brake, @ 16.1.
► Check the controls for proper function and condition,
@ 16.2.
► Check the chain oil flow rate, @ 16.3.
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1
2
3
a
t = a 2
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10 Assembling the Chain Saw
10 Assembling the Chain Saw
10.1 Cutting Attachment
WARNING
If non-matching components are used, the cutting
attachment will be damaged beyond repair after a short
period of operation, and the chain could de-rail, resulting in
serious or fatal personal injury.
A cutting attachment consists of the chain, guide bar and
chain sprocket.
– The pitch (t) of the chain (1), chain sprocket and, if using
a Rollomatic guide bar, the nose sprocket must match.
– The drive link gauge (2) of the chain must match the
groove width of the guide bar (3).
To mount the guide bar and chain:
► Shut off the engine, @ 15.
► Unscrew the nuts (1).
► Remove the chain sprocket cover (2).
► Turn the side chain tensioner (3) counter-clockwise until
the tensioning gear (4) sits flush against the housing.
10.2 Mounting and Removing the Guide Bar and
Chain
10.2.1 Mounting the Guide Bar and Chain
WARNING
The chain has many sharp cutters. If they contact your flesh,
they will cut you, even if the chain is not moving, @ 5.4.
Always wear heavy-duty work gloves when mounting or
otherwise handling the chain, @ 5.3.
34
► Position the chain in the groove of the guide bar, starting
at the tip.
► Make sure that the cutters in the groove on the top side of
the guide bar face the tip of the bar. STIHL chains are
manufactured with arrows on the tie straps to help the
operator determine the proper direction of the chain.
Arrows on the tie straps on the top of the bar must point
toward the bar tip.
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10 Assembling the Chain Saw
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7
0000-GXX-2928-A0
► Point the guide bar tip away from the chain sprocket (7).
► Place the chain around the chain sprocket.
► Slide the guide bar (6) over the collar screws (5). The
head of the collar screw must protrude into the oblong
hole.
► Fit the pin of the tensioning gear in the hole (8) of the
guide bar.
► Disengage the chain brake, @ 12.2.
English
10.2.2 Removing the Guide Bar and Chain
► Unscrew the nuts securing the chain sprocket cover.
► Remove the chain sprocket cover.
► Turn the side chain tensioner counter-clockwise until it
stops and the chain is loose.
► Remove the guide bar and chain.
NOTICE
The top and bottom of the guide bar are symmetrical, and
the bar may be mounted with the printing facing up or down.
Flipping the guide bar each time the chain is sharpened or
changed will help reduce uneven wear and improve its
service life.
10.3 Tensioning the Chain
WARNING
To reduce the risk of severe personal injury from chain
derailment, check chain tension frequently, @ 5.6. At
operating temperatures, the chain stretches and sags. New
chain tends to stretch more than used chain. Tension the
chain so that the drive links cannot come out of the groove
on the underside of the guide bar.
► Direct the drive links into the groove of the guide bar (6,
arrow) while turning the side chain tensioner (3) clockwise
until it stops.
The guide bar and chain must be firmly and securely
mounted on the saw.
► Fit the sprocket cover on the saw so that it is flush with the
housing.
► Turn the nuts clockwise until the chain sprocket cover is
firmly attached to the saw.
0458-790-8621-A
To properly tension the chain:
► Shut off the engine, @ 15.
2
1
1
► Loosen the nuts (1).
► Disengage the chain brake, @ 12.2.
a
0000-GXX-2929-A1
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11 Lubricating the Saw Chain and Guide Bar
► Lift the guide bar tip.
► Turn the side chain tensioner (2) clockwise to tighten the
chain.
The chain is properly adjusted when the distance a
between the underside of the guide bar and the chain is
within 0.04 in. (1 mm) and 0.08 in. (2 mm) and can still be
pulled easily along the bar by hand. Always wear gloves
when handling the chain.
► If the chain cannot be moved along the guide bar, it is too
tight.
– Reduce the tension by turning the side chain tensioner
counter-clockwise until the chain can move freely along
the guide bar.
– Ensure that the drive links remain in the groove and that
the distance (a) between the underside of the guide bar
and the chain is within 0.04 in. (1 mm) and 0.08 in.
(2 mm).
► Once the chain is properly tensioned, lift the guide bar tip
and tighten the nuts to secure the chain sprocket cover.
► Finally, ensure that the distance a between the underside
of the guide bar and the chain is within 0.04 in. (1 mm) and
0.08 in. (2 mm).
NOTICE
Always release tension on the chain after finishing work. The
chain contracts as it cools down. If it is not slackened, it can
damage the drive shaft and bearings. Properly re-tension
the chain before using the saw again.
may break, resulting in severe or fatal personal injury.
Always check chain lubrication and the oil level in the tank
before starting work and periodically during work.
WARNING
Never use waste oil to lubricate your STIHL saw chain and
guide bar. Repeated contact with waste oil can cause skin
cancer. Moreover, waste oil is environmentally harmful.
Bar and chain oil lubricates and cools the rotating saw chain.
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 formulated chain lubricant.
► For automatic and reliable lubrication of the chain and
guide bar, use only an environmentally compatible quality
chain and bar lubricant. STIHL recommends using rapidly
biodegradable STIHL BioPlus.
NOTICE
Biodegradable chain oil must be resistant to aging, 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.
NOTICE
Waste oil does not have the necessary lubricating properties
and is unsuitable for chain lubrication.
11.2 Filling the Chain Oil Tank
11 Lubricating the Saw Chain and Guide
Bar
11.1 Bar and Chain Lubricant
WARNING
Never operate your saw without bar and chain lubrication. If
the chain runs dry, the cutting attachment will be damaged
beyond repair within a very short time. A damaged chain
36
Opening and Filling the Chain Oil Tank
To fill the chain oil tank:
► Shut off the engine, @ 15.
► Engage the chain brake, @ 12.1.
► Position the chain saw on a level surface with the oil filler
cap facing upwards.
► Clean the area around the oil filler cap with a slightly
dampened cloth.
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11 Lubricating the Saw Chain and Guide Bar
English
123
4
5
► Flip up the grip and press the cap down firmly (1).
► Turn the cap slowly counter-clockwise (2) to the open
position (3). In the open position, the exterior positioning
mark (4) on the cap will line up with the symbol (5) on the
chain oil tank housing
► Remove the cap and fill the tank with bar and chain oil.
► Take care not to spill bar and chain oil while refilling the
tank.
► Do not overfill the tank. Leave approximately 0.5 in.
(13 mm) of air space.
Closing
To close the tank:
1
4
1
► Using the grip, press the cap down firmly while turning it
clockwise to the closed position (approximately 1/4 turn).
In the closed position, the interior (4) and exterior (1)
positioning marks will align with the closed symbol (3) on
the chain oil tank housing.
► Fold the grip flush with the top of the cap and check for
tightness.
► If the grip does not lie completely flush with the cap or the
detent on the grip does not fit in the corresponding recess
in the tank opening, or if the cap is loose, the cap is not
properly seated and you must repeat the above steps.
0000-GXX-2930-A1
11.3 Adjusting the Flow of Bar and Chain Oil
WARNING
Never operate your saw without bar and chain lubrication. If
the chain runs dry, the cutting attachment will be damaged
beyond repair within a very short time. A damaged chain
may break, resulting in severe or fatal personal injury.
Always check chain lubrication and the oil level in the tank
before starting work and periodically during work.
This chain saw is equipped with an adjustable oil pump. The
flow of bar and chain oil can be set for different guide bar
lengths, types of wood and working techniques.
To adjust the flow of bar and chain oil:
► Shut off the engine, @ 15.
► Engage the chain brake, @ 12.1.
A
2
► Raise the grip on the top of the cap until it is upright at a
90° angle. Insert the cap in the chain oil tank opening with
the exterior positioning mark (1) lined up with the open
symbol (2) on the chain oil tank housing.
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12 The Chain Brake
The chain oil feed rate is suitable for most applications when
the oil flow adjusting screw (1) is in position E (Ematic).
To increase the flow:
► Turn the oil flow adjusting screw clockwise.
To reduce the flow:
► Turn the oil flow adjusting screw counter-clockwise.
To increase the flow beyond the standard setting:
► Press in the end stop (2) using a suitable tool. Once the
oil adjustment limiter has been pressed in, it will remain
permanently in this position.
► Turn the oil flow adjusting screw clockwise.
NOTICE
Depending on the setting, the oil tank may run dry before the
fuel tank. Monitor the bar and chain oil level between
refuelings and add bar oil if necessary. Refill the chain oil
tank every time you refuel.
NOTICE
Once the oil adjustment limiter has been pressed in to allow
increased flow beyond the standard setting, it will remain
permanently in the depressed position.
In the event of a kickback, the chain brake is designed to
engage if the left hand contacts the front hand guard and
pushes it forward.
The chain brake is also designed to be activated by the
inertia of the front hand guard if the forces are sufficiently
high. When the brake is activated by inertia, the hand guard
accelerates toward the bar nose, even if your hand is not
behind the hand guard, e.g., during a felling back cut.
Engaging the chain brake locks the chain. To manually
engage the chain brake:
► Push the front hand guard away from the front handle.
You will hear an audible click when the front hand guard
reaches the locked position.
12 The Chain Brake
12.1 Engaging the Chain Brake
WARNING
The chain brake will operate only if it has been properly
maintained and the front hand guard has not been modified,
@ 6.2.
WARNING
No chain brake device prevents kickback. This device is
designed to reduce the risk of kickback injury, if activated, in
certain kickback situations. For the chain brake to remain in
good working order, it must be properly maintained, @ 6.2.
38
NOTICE
High revs with the chain brake engaged will quickly damage
the powerhead and chain drive (clutch, chain brake). Always
disengage chain brake before accelerating the engine and
before starting work.
12.2 Disengaging the Chain Brake
WARNING
Before disengaging the chain brake and accelerating the
engine, be sure that the guide bar and saw chain are clear
of you and all other obstructions and objects, including the
ground, @ 5.6.
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13 Mixing Fuel and Refueling the Chain Saw
0000-GXX-2933-A0
English
Disengaging the chain brake unlocks the chain. To
disengage the chain brake:
► Pull the front hand guard toward the front handle.
You will hear an audible click when the front hand guard
reaches the unlocked position. In this position, the chain
brake is disengaged and the engine can be accelerated.
12.3 Maintaining the Chain Brake
WARNING
An improperly maintained chain brake may increase the time
needed to stop the saw chain after activation, or it may not
activate or stop the chain at all, @ 6.2. The chain brake is
subject to wear, depending on the amount of usage,
conditions under which the saw is used and other factors.
Excessive wear will reduce the effectiveness of the chain
brake and can render it inoperable.
► Your chain saw should be returned to your authorized
STIHL servicing dealer for periodic inspection and
servicing of the brake system according to the following
schedule:
– Heavy Usage: every 3 months
– Part-Time Usage: every 6 months
– Occasional Usage: every 12 months
13 Mixing Fuel and Refueling the Chain
Saw
13.1 Mixing Fuel
Information on Fuel
Your engine requires a mixture of high-quality gasoline and
2-cycle air cooled engine oil. This engine is certified to
operate on mid-grade unleaded gasoline with a minimum
octane rating of 89 and no more than 10 % ethanol and
2-cycle oil for air cooled engines at a mix ratio of 50:1.
If you mix the fuel yourself, STIHL recommends the following
2-cycle engine oils:
– STIHL HP Ultra 2-Cycle Engine Oil
NOTICE
Fuel with an octane rating below 89 may increase engine
temperatures. This, in turn, increases the risk of piston
seizure and damage to the engine. The chemical
composition of the fuel is also important.
NOTICE
Some fuel additives not only detrimentally affect elastomers
(carburetor diaphragms, oil seals, fuel lines, etc.), but
magnesium castings and catalytic converters as well. This
could cause running problems or damage the engine. For
this reason STIHL recommends that you use only quality
unleaded gasoline.
Information on Ethanol Content
WARNING
At correct idle speed, the saw chain should not move. To
reduce the risk of personal injury from loss of control and/or
contact with the running chain, have the chain saw inspected
by an authorized STIHL servicing dealer before further use
if the chain moves while the engine is idling.
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13 Mixing Fuel and Refueling the Chain Saw
Gasoline with an ethanol content of more than 10% can
cause running problems and major damage in engines and
should not be used. For further details, see
www.STIHLusa.com/ethanol.
The ethanol content in gasoline affects engine speed. It may
be necessary to readjust the carburetor if you use fuels with
varying ethanol content.
The idle speed and maximum speed of the engine change if
you switch to a fuel with a much higher or lower ethanol
content. This problem can be avoided by always using an
ethanol-free fuel or fuel with consistent ethanol levels.
STIHL MotoMix
STIHL MotoMix is ethanol-free, has a high octane rating and
ensures that you always use the right gasoline/oil mix ratio.
STIHL MotoMix uses STIHL HP Ultra 2-Cycle Engine Oil
suited for high performance engines. For further details, see
www.STIHLusa.com/ethanol.
STIHL recommends using MotoMix in your chain saw. If not
using MotoMix, use only STIHL HP Ultra 2-Cycle Engine Oil
or equivalent high quality 2-cycle engine oils that are
designed for use in air cooled 2-cycle engines.
The use of non-seasonal gasoline blends may increase the
potential for pressure to build in the fuel tank during
operation. For example, using a winter blend during the
summer will increase pressure in the fuel tank. Always use
gasoline blends appropriate to the season, altitude and
other environmental factors.
Do not use BIA or TCW rated (2-cycle water cooled) mix oils
or other mix oils that state they are for use in both water
cooled and air cooled engines (e.g., outboard motors,
snowmobiles, chain saws, mopeds, etc.).
the risk of sparks from static discharge and resulting fire
and/or explosion, do not fill fuel containers that are sitting in
or on a vehicle or trailer.
WARNING
Shaking fuel can cause pressure to build in the fuel
container. To reduce the risk of fire and severe personal
injury or property damage from fuel spraying, allow the fuel
container to sit for several minutes before opening. Open the
container slowly to release any residual pressures. Never
open the fuel container in the vicinity of any ignition source.
Read and follow all warnings and instructions that
accompany your fuel container.
To properly mix fuel:
► If not using STIHL MotoMix, only mix sufficient fuel for a
few days of work. Never mix more than a 30-day supply of
fuel.
► Store the fuel mix in an approved fuel container.
► Depending on the required amount of fuel, determine the
correct amounts of 2-cycle engine oil and gasoline in a mix
ratio of 50:1. Examples for fuel mixes:
– 1 US gals of gasoline: 2.6 oz. of 2-cycle engine oil
– 2.5 US gals of gasoline: 6.4 oz. of 2-cycle engine oil
– 5 US gals of gasoline: 12.8 oz. of 2-cycle engine oil
► When mixing, pour oil into the container first, and then add
gasoline. Close the container and shake it by hand to
ensure proper mix of oil and gasoline.
► Dispose of empty mixing-oil containers only at authorized
disposal locations.
13.2 Refueling the Chain Saw
Mixing Fuel
WARNING
Take care when handling gasoline. Avoid direct contact with
the skin and avoid inhaling fuel vapor. Anytime you are filling
a container at the fuel pump, remove the container from your
vehicle and place it on the ground before filling. To reduce
40
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13 Mixing Fuel and Refueling the Chain Saw
0000-GXX-2144-A0
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5
English
WARNING
Removing the fuel cap on a pressurized fuel tank can result
in gasoline, vapors and fumes being forcefully sprayed out
from the tank in all directions. The escaping gasoline, vapors
or fumes, sometimes referred to as fuel spraying or
“geysering,” can cause serious personal injury, including fire
and burn injury, or property damage, @ 5.5.
WARNING
Fuel spraying can occur when the engine is hot and the tank
is opened while under pressure. It can occur in hot
environments even if the engine has not been running.
Spraying is more likely to occur when the fuel tank is half full
or more. Always follow the fueling instructions in this
manual:
– Treat every fuel tank as if it is pressurized, particularly
if it is half full or more.
– Always allow the chain saw to cool adequately before
attempting to open the fuel tank or refueling. This will
take longer in hot conditions.
– Never remove the cap by turning it directly to the open
position. Turn it first approximately 1/8 of a turn
counter-clockwise to the vent position to relieve any
residual pressure.
– Never open the fuel tank while the engine is still hot or
running.
– Never open the fuel tank or re-fuel the saw near any
sparks, flames or other ignition sources.
– Pick the right fuel: use only good quality (89 octane or
higher), fresh fuel blended for the season.
– Vapor lock: do not remove the fuel cap in an effort to
relieve vapor lock. Removing the cap has no effect on
vapor lock.
– Be aware that fuel spraying is more likely at higher
altitudes.
Opening and Refueling
To refuel the chain saw:
► Shut off the engine, @ 15.
► Engage the chain brake, @ 12.1.
► Allow the chain saw to cool. Never attempt to remove the
cap while the engine is still hot or running.
► Position the chain saw on a level surface with the fuel filler
cap facing upwards.
► Clean the area around the fuel filler cap with a slightly
dampened cloth.
► Flip up the grip and press the cap down firmly (1).
► While maintaining steady, downward pressure, turn the
cap slowly counter-clockwise to the vent position (2),
approximately a 1/8 turn of the cap. Never remove the cap
by turning it directly to the open position.
► If any significant venting occurs, immediately re-seal the
tank by turning the cap clockwise to the closed position.
Allow the saw to cool further before attempting to open the
tank.
► Turn the cap to the open position (3) only after the
contents of the tank are no longer under pressure. In the
open position, the exterior positioning mark (4) on the cap
will line up with the "unlocked" symbol (5) on the fuel tank
housing.
► Remove the fuel filler cap and fill the tank with fuel.
► Take care not to spill fuel while refilling the tank.
► Do not overfill the tank. Leave approximately 0.5 in.
(13 mm) of air space.
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41
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0000-GXX-3136-A1
1
2
ABC
13 Mixing Fuel and Refueling the Chain Saw
Closing
To close the tank:
1
4
1
2
► Raise the grip on the top of the cap until it is upright at a
90° angle. Insert the cap in the fuel tank opening with the
exterior positioning mark (1) lined up with the "unlocked"
symbol (2) on the fuel tank housing.
► Using the grip, press the cap down firmly while turning it
clockwise to the closed position (approximately 1/4 turn).
In the closed position, the interior (4) and exterior (1)
positioning marks will align with the "locked" symbol (3) on
the fuel tank housing.
► Fold the grip flush with the top of the cap and check for
tightness.
► If the grip does not lie completely flush with the cap or the
detent on the grip does not fit in the corresponding recess
in the tank opening, or if the cap is loose, the cap is not
properly seated and you must repeat the above steps.
► Also refer to the procedure below for returning the base of
the cap to the proper starting position for installation.
3
A B C
1
2
If the cap does not drop fully into the fuel tank opening when
the positioning marks (1, 2) line up, or if it does not tighten
0000-GXX-2935-A1
properly when turned, the base of the cap may be
prematurely rotated in relation to the top. Such misalignment
can result from handling, cleaning or an improper attempt at
tightening.
– Illustrations A and B: The base of the cap is prematurely
rotated to the closed position and is not in the correct
starting position for installation. The tank will not seal in
this configuration. Note: in Illustrations A and B, the
interior positioning marks (1) are in line with the exterior
positioning marks (2).
– Illustration C: The bottom of the cap is in the correct
starting position for installation. Note: in Illustration C, the
interior positioning mark (1) is under the grip and not in
line with the outer positioning mark (2).
To return the base of the cap to the proper starting position
for installation:
2
1
2
1
0000-GXX-2134-A1
If the filler cap will not engage into the tank housing
The base of the filler cap is rotated in relation to the upper
part.
42
0458-790-8621-A
14 Starting the Engine
English
► Drop the cap into the fuel tank opening (A).
► Turn the cap counter-clockwise with slight pressure until it
drops fully into the fuel tank opening (approx. 1/4
turn) (B). This will rotate the base of the cap into the
correct starting position for installation (C). The exterior
positioning mark (1) on the cap will line up with the
"unlocked" symbol on the fuel tank housing. The interior
positioning mark (3) should be under the grip and not in
line with the outer positioning mark (1).
► Then, turn the cap clockwise, closing it normally.
► If your fuel cap still does not tighten properly, it may be
damaged or broken. Stop using the unit and take it to your
authorized STIHL dealer for repair.
14 Starting the Engine
14.1 Holding the Chain Saw
A B C
► When starting, hold the chain saw firmly in one of three
ways:
– Position the chain saw on a level surface. Hold the saw
firmly on the ground with your left hand on the front
handle. Your thumb should be under the handle. Put the
toe of your right boot into the rear handle and press
down (Illustration A).
– Position the chain saw on a level surface. Hold the saw
firmly on the ground with your left hand on the front
handle. Your thumb should be under the handle. Put the
heel of your right boot onto the rear hand guard and
press down (Illustration B).
– Hold the saw firmly with your left hand on the front
handle. Your thumb should be under the handle. Hold
the rear handle tightly between your legs, just above the
knees (Illustration C).
14.2 Starting the Engine
WARNING
Never operate your chain saw if it is damaged, improperly
adjusted or maintained, not completely and securely
assembled or not functioning properly, @ 5.4. To reduce
the risk of personal injury, always wear proper clothing and
protective apparel, including proper eye protection, when
operating your chain saw, @ 5.3.
Before starting the engine:
► Make sure you have a secure and firm footing.
► Stand upright.
► Always hold and operate the chain saw with your right
hand firmly on the rear or control handle and your left hand
0000-GXX-2936-A1
firmly on the front handle. Always hold the chain saw with
two hands in this manner, whether you are right-handed or
left-handed.
0458-790-8621-A
To start the engine:
► Engage the chain brake, @ 12.1.
► Remove the chain scabbard.
► Depress the decompression valve.
43
English
3
1
2
The Master Control Lever (3) will automatically be in run
position if the engine is shut off.
► Hold the chain saw firmly and pull the starter grip slowly
with your right hand until you feel it engage.
3
1
2
15 Shutting Off the Engine
► Pull the starter grip quickly and allow the starter rope to
rewind several times until the engine runs.
► If the Master Control Lever was set to position , press
down the throttle trigger lockout (1) and blip the throttle
trigger (2). The Master Control Lever will move to the run
position and the engine will settle down to idle speed.
► Disengage the chain brake, @ 12.2.
Your chain saw is ready for operation.
► If the saw chain rotates when the engine is idling, shut off
the engine, engage the chain brake and have the chain
saw inspected by an authorized STIHL servicing dealer
0000-GXX-6502-A0
before further use.
NOTICE
Accelerating the engine while the chain brake is engaged or
the chain is otherwise blocked (i.e., not able to turn)
increases the load and will cause the clutch to slip
continuously. This may occur if the throttle is depressed for
more than a few seconds when the chain is pinched in the
cut or the chain brake is engaged. To reduce the risk of
overheating and damage to important components (e. g.
clutch, polymer housing components), always disengage the
chain brake before accelerating engine and before starting
cutting work. The only exception to this rule is when you
check operation of the chain brake, @ 16.1.
► If the engine has not yet been started, or if it shut off when
it was accelerated the first time or shut off because the
fuel tank ran dry, use the following cold starting
procedure: depress and hold the throttle trigger lockout (1)
and squeeze the throttle trigger (2) while moving the
Master Control Lever (3) to start position .
► Pull the starter grip quickly and allow the starter rope to
rewind several times until the engine runs.
► Do not pull out the starter rope to full length and do not let
the starter grip snap back. Guide it slowly back into the
housing so that the starter rope can rewind properly.
► Hold the chain saw firmly and pull the starter grip slowly
with your right hand until you feel it engage.
44
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15 Shutting Off the Engine
15.1 Shutting Off the Engine
WARNING
The saw chain will continue to rotate for a short while after
the throttle trigger is released. To avoid serious or fatal
injury, avoid contact with the moving chain. To reduce the
risk of personal injury from unintended activation or
unauthorized use, shut off the engine, ensure the chain has
stopped and engage the chain brake before walking with the
saw or setting it down.
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16 Checking the Chain Saw
0000-GXX-1637-A0
2
1
English
To shut off the engine:
3
1
2
► Release the throttle trigger (2) and throttle trigger
lockout (1).
► Move the Master Control Lever (3) to stop position .
16 Checking the Chain Saw
16.1 Checking the Operation of the Chain Brake
WARNING
Operating the saw with a missing, damaged, modified or
improperly maintained chain brake increases the risk of
severe or fatal injury from kickback. Never attempt to modify
or disable the chain brake. Never operate a saw if the chain
brake has been modified or does not function properly. If you
detect a change in the operating characteristics of the chain
brake, have your saw serviced immediately by an authorized
STIHL servicing dealer.
Before starting work, check the operation of the chain brake:
► Run the engine at idle speed.
► Engage the chain brake, @ 12.1.
► Accelerate up to full throttle for no more than 3 seconds.
A properly functioning chain brake prevents the chain from
rotating.
► If the chain brake fails to prevent the chain from rotating,
have the saw inspected and repaired by an authorized
STIHL servicing dealer.
16.2 Testing the Controls
Before starting work, confirm that the throttle trigger
lockout (1) and throttle trigger (2) are undamaged and
functioning properly.
0000-GXX-6503-A0
Throttle Trigger Lockout (1) and Throttle Trigger (2)
WARNING
To reduce the risk of serious or fatal injuries, keep hands,
feet and other parts of the body away from the chain. Do not
touch the saw chain while the engine is running. Never touch
a moving chain with your hand or any part of your body,
@ 5.6.3. Keep bystanders out of the area while testing the
controls.
To test the controls:
► Shut off the engine, @ 15.
► Attempt to depress the throttle trigger.
If the trigger can be depressed without first depressing the
throttle trigger lockout, take the chain saw to an
authorized STIHL servicing dealer to be repaired before
use.
Stopping the Engine
► Start the engine, @ 14.
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1
min
AB C
s> 30 s30-60 s
0000-GXX-3825-A0
17 Adjusting the Carburetor
► Move the Master Control Lever to position .
The engine should stop and the Master Control Lever
should spring back to position when released.
► If the engine does not stop, move the Master Control
Lever to position .
The engine will stop.
► Take the chain saw to an authorized STIHL servicing
dealer to be repaired before use.
16.3 Testing Chain Lubrication
WARNING
Never operate your saw without bar and chain lubrication. If
the chain runs dry, the cutting attachment will be damaged
beyond repair within a very short time. A damaged chain
may break, resulting in severe or fatal personal injury.
Always check chain lubrication and the oil level in the tank
before starting work and periodically during work.
To confirm that the chain oil is flowing properly:
► Start the engine, @ 14.
► Disengage the chain brake, @ 12.2.
► Point the guide bar toward a bright surface.
► Accelerate the engine.
The chain should throw off a small amount of oil.
If the chain oil cannot be seen, check the oil level and refill
the tank as necessary.
► Test the chain lubrication again.
► If chain oil is still not visible, the lubrication mechanism is
not functioning. Take the saw to an authorized STIHL
servicing dealer to be repaired before use.
17 Adjusting the Carburetor
17.1 STIHL M-Tronic Engine Management System
The STIHL M-Tronic engine management system
electronically controls the ignition timing and fuel metering in
any operating condition, factoring in altitude and fuel quality.
This system provides optimum performance, whether you
are just starting to work or resuming after a break. Manual
carburetor adjustments are no longer required. The
carburetor does not have adjusting screws.
17.2 Calibrating the Chain Saw
WARNING
Before disengaging the chain brake and accelerating the
engine, position the chain saw in such a way that all parts of
your body are clear of the cutting attachment, @ 5.6.3.
The chain saw adjusts itself automatically for optimum
performance during operation. Calibrating enables the saw
to be adjusted faster for optimum performance.
► If the outside temperature is below 14 °F (-- 10 °C) or the
engine is cold, warm up the engine by opening and closing
the throttle for about 1 minute.
► Move the Master Control lever to position .
► Engage the chain brake, @ 12.1.
► Start the engine without depressing the throttle trigger.
The engine runs and the Master Control lever remains in
position .
► Run the engine for at least 30 seconds but no more than
60 seconds (A) without depressing the throttle trigger.
► Disengage the chain brake, @ 12.2.
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17 Adjusting the Carburetor
0000-GXX-3163-A0
11
3
4
3
0000-GXX-3164-A0
► Fully depress the throttle trigger for at least
30 seconds (B) and hold it in that position.
The engine will accelerate, the chain will rotate and the
chain saw will be calibrated. Engine speed will vary
noticeably during calibration.
► If the engine shuts off, retry to calibrate. The calibration
was aborted.
► If the engine keeps shutting off, engage the chain brake
and have the chain saw inspected by an authorized STIHL
servicing dealer before further use.
► Release the throttle trigger as soon as the engine speed
drops noticeably (C).
The engine will run at idling speed. The chain saw is
successfully calibrated and ready for operation.
NOTICE
The chain saw may be incorrectly calibrated if the throttle
trigger is not kept fully depressed during calibration. This
may result in damage to the saw.
NOTICE
The calibration process will be aborted if the throttle trigger
is released before the saw is properly calibrated. It is then
necessary to restart the entire calibration process.
English
► Open the shroud locks (1) by turning them 1/4 turn
counter-clockwise with the combination wrench.
► Remove the shroud (2).
► Pull out the shutter (3).
17.3 Winter Operation
The carburetor may ice up when the saw is used at ambient
temperatures below 50 °F (10 °C). To prevent icing, the
shutter must be converted to allow warm air from around the
engine to heat the carburetor.
► Shut off the engine, @ 15.
► Engage the chain brake, @ 12.1.
0458-790-8621-A
► Re-insert the shutter as shown above. The "winter"
symbol (4) points toward the chain saw.
► Push the shutter into the slot until it stops.
► Place the shroud in position.
► Tighten the shroud locks until you hear an audible click.
NOTICE
The winter operation setting should only be used in ambient
temperatures below 50 °F (10 °C). Use at higher
temperatures may cause the engine to overheat, resulting in
permanent damage. Always remember to return the shutter
to the configuration that is appropriate for ambient
temperature conditions.
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0000-GXX-3807-A0
11
3
3
4
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18 After Finishing Work
17.4 Summer Operation
The shutter must be set to summer mode when working at
temperatures above 50 °F (10°C).
► Shut off the engine, @ 15.
► Engage the chain brake, @ 12.1.
► Open the shroud locks (1) by turning them 1/4 turn
counter-clockwise with the combination wrench.
► Remove the shroud (2).
► Pull out the shutter (3).
18 After Finishing Work
18.1 Preparing for Transportation or Storage
WARNING
To reduce the risk of personal injury from unintended
activation or unauthorized use, shut off the engine and
engage the chain brake before transporting the chain saw or
putting it down. To reduce the risk of injuries from the sharp
cutters on the chain, always cover the guide bar with the
chain scabbard before transporting or storing the saw.
To prepare the saw for transportation or storage:
► Shut off the engine, @ 15.
► Release the chain brake and loosen the chain, @ 12.2.
► Re-engage the chain brake.
► Slide a chain scabbard over the guide bar so that it covers
the entire guide bar.
► Before using the saw, remember to re-tension the chain.
NOTICE
The chain contracts as it cools down. Failing to loosen the
chain after finishing work can damage the drive shaft and
bearings.
► Re-insert the shutter as shown above. The "summer"
symbol (4) points toward the chain saw.
► Push the shutter into the slot until it stops.
► Place the shroud in position.
► Tighten the shroud locks until you hear an audible click.
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0458-790-8621-A
19 Transporting
English
19 Transporting
19.1 Transporting the Chain Saw
When transporting the chain saw:
► Slide a chain scabbard over the guide bar so that it covers
the entire guide bar.
► When transporting the saw by hand, hold it by the front
handle with the guide bar pointing backwards, opposite
the direction in which you are walking. Place the muffler
away from the body.
► When transporting the saw in a vehicle, cover the guide
bar with a chain scabbard. Secure and position the chain
saw to prevent turnover, fuel spillage, impact and
damage.
Your saw comes standard with a chain scabbard that
matches the cutting attachment. If you use guide bars of
different lengths on the saw, the length of the chain
scabbard must be matched to the guide bar to reduce the
risk of injury. It should cover the full length of the guide bar.
20 Storing
20.1 Storing the Chain Saw
WARNING
Store the chain saw indoors in a dry, secure place that
cannot be accessed by children or other unauthorized users,
@ 5.4. Improper storage can result in unauthorized use and
damage to the chain saw, @ 5.4.
When storing the saw short-term:
► Wait for the 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.
When storing the saw for three months or longer:
0000-GXX-2156-A0
► Drain and clean the fuel tank in a well ventilated area.
Dispose of fuel properly in accordance with local
environmental requirements.
► Run the engine until it shuts off. The carburetor will be dry.
This helps prevent the carburetor diaphragms from
sticking together.
► Remove the chain and guide bar.
► Clean and spray the guide bar with a resin solvent, such
as STIHL Resin Remover and Lubricant.
► Clean the saw, @ 21.1.
► Clean the air filter, @ 21.3.
► Fill up the chain oil tank, @ 11.2.
► Store the saw indoors in a dry and secure location, out of
the reach of children and other unauthorized persons.
0458-790-8621-A
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1
2
0000-GXX-2951-A0
3
3
21 Cleaning
21.1 Cleaning the Chain Saw
WARNING
To reduce the risk of personal injury from unintended
activation, shut off the engine and engage the chain brake
before carrying out any cleaning work, @ 8. Users of this
chain saw should carry out only the cleaning described in
this manual.
To clean the chain saw:
► Shut off the engine, @ 15.
► Engage the chain brake, @ 12.1.
► Clean the chain saw's polymer components with a slightly
dampened cloth. Do not use detergents or solvents. They
may damage the polymer components.
► Remove the shroud and clean the cylinder fins.
► Remove the sprocket cover and clean the area around the
chain sprocket with a slightly dampened cloth or resin
solvent, such as STIHL Resin Remover & Lubricant.
► Do not use a pressure washer to clean the chain saw or
otherwise spray it with water or other liquids.
21.2 Cleaning the Guide Bar and Saw Chain
WARNING
To reduce the risk of personal injury from unintended
activation, shut off the engine and engage the chain brake
before carrying out any cleaning work, @ 8. Users of this
chain saw should carry out only the cleaning described in
this manual.To help prevent injuries, always wear heavyduty work gloves when handling the chain.
21 Cleaning
► Clean the oil outlet duct (1), oil inlet bore (2) and groove
(3) with a brush, a slightly dampened cloth or resin
solvent, such as STIHL Resin Remover & Lubricant. Do
not use detergents.
► Clean the chain with a brush, a slightly dampened cloth or
resin solvent. Do not use detergents.
► Do not use a pressure washer to clean the guide bar or
chain or otherwise spray them with water or other liquids.
21.3 Cleaning the Air Filter
Very fine dust can collect in the air filter and block proper air
flow. This dust cannot be removed by simply brushing the air
filter or knocking it out. The air filter must be cleaned with the
STIHL special cleaner or another cleaning agent with a
pH value higher than 12.
To clean the air filter:
► Shut off the engine, @ 15.
► Engage the chain brake, @ 12.1.
To properly clean the guide bar and chain:
► Shut off the engine, @ 15.
► Engage the chain brake, @ 12.1.
► Remove the guide bar and the chain, @ 10.2.2.
50
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21 Cleaning
0000-GXX-2952-A0
2
1
3
0000-GXX-3808-A0
3
English
► Open the shroud locks (1) by turning them 1/4 turn
counter-clockwise with the combination wrench.
► Remove the shroud (2).
► Clean the area around the air filter (3) with a damp cloth
or soft brush.
► Rotate the air filter a 1/4 turn counter-clockwise by hand.
► Remove the air filter.
► Rinse away coarse dirt from the outside of the air filter
under running water. Never spray the air filter with a
pressure washer.
► If the air filter is damaged, replace it.
► Spray the outside and inside of the air filter with STIHL
special cleaner or a cleaning agent with a pH value higher
than 12.
► Allow STIHL special cleaner or cleaning agent to act for
10 minutes.
► Use a soft brush to clean the outside of the air filter.
► Rinse the outside and inside of the air filter under running
water. Never spray the air filter with a pressure washer.
► Allow the air filter to air dry.
► After the air filter (3) has dried thoroughly, push it into
place by hand and rotate it clockwise until it engages in
position.
The “STIHL” logo should be horizontal.
► Place the shroud in position.
► Tighten the shroud locks until you hear an audible click.
WARNING
Cleaning agent may cause irritation if it contacts the skin or
eyes. Avoid contact. Read and follow all safety precautions
that accompany the cleaning agent. In case of contact with
the skin: Wash affected areas with plenty of water and soap.
In case of contact with the eyes: Rinse eyes with plenty of
water for at least 15 minutes and seek medical advice.
NOTICE
To reduce the risk of damage, never use a tool to install or
remove the air filter.
NOTICE
Exposure to high temperatures and oil can damage the air
filter and reduce filtering efficiency. Allow the air filter to air
dry away from external heat sources. Keep the air filter away
from oil.
0458-790-8621-A
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0000-GXX-1662-A0
1
2
11
3
0000-GXX-3809-A0
21.4 Cleaning the Spark Plug
WARNING
To reduce the risk of fire and burn injury, use only spark
plugs authorized by STIHL. Always press the spark plug
boot snugly onto the spark plug terminal.
WARNING
Do not use a spark plug with a detachable SAE adapter
terminal (1). Arcing may occur that could ignite combustible
fumes and cause a fire. This can result in serious injuries or
damage to property. Only use resistor type spark plugs with
solid, non-threaded terminals (2).
Using the wrong fuel mix (too much engine oil in the
gasoline), a dirty air filter, and unfavorable running
conditions (running for extended periods at partial throttle)
can affect the condition of the spark plug and cause deposits
to form on the insulator nose, degrading performance.
21 Cleaning
► Open the shroud locks (1) by turning them 1/4 turn
counter-clockwise with the combination wrench.
► Remove the shroud (2).
► Remove the spark plug boot (3).
► Clean the area around the spark plug with a damp cloth or
soft brush.
► Unscrew the spark plug.
► Clean the spark plug with a damp cloth.
► If the spark plug is corroded, install a new spark plug.
To clean the spark plug:
► Shut off the engine, @ 15.
► Engage the chain brake, @ 12.1.
► Allow the chain saw to cool down.
52
3
► If damp, dry the spark plug thoroughly before re-inserting
it.
► Insert the spark plug and tighten it down firmly.
► Connect the spark plug boot (3) and press it down firmly.
► Place the shroud in position.
► Tighten the shroud locks until you hear an audible click.
0458-790-8621-A
0000-GXX-5806-A0
22 Inspection and Maintenance
English
22 Inspection and Maintenance
22.1 Inspection and Maintenance Chart
The following maintenance intervals are examples and apply for normal
operating conditions. Actual use and your experience will determine the
frequency of required inspection and maintenance.
Before starting
work
After finishing work
or daily
Whenever fueling
Weekly
Monthly
Yearly
Complete Machine Visual inspection XX
Clean X @ 21.1
Controls Check function and condition XX @ 16.2
Chain Brake Check function X @ 16.1
Chain Oil Tank Clean
1)
XX
Chain Lubrication Check chain oil flow rate X @ 16.3
Fuel Tank Clean
Fuel Pick-Up Body / Filter Clean
1)
1)
Replace
X
X
1)
X
Air Filter Clean X @ 21.3
Saw Chain Check chain tension XX @ 10.3
Sharpen
Guide Bar Inspect for proper groove depth and
spread
1)
XXX @ 22.5
X @ 22.4
Deburr X @ 22.4
Chain Sprocket Inspect X @ 22.4
Chain catcher on sprocket cover Inspect
1)
X
Air intake on fan housing Clean XX
Cylinder fins Clean XX
Spark arresting screen in muffler Check and Clean
1)
STIHL recommends an authorized STIHL servicing dealer
1)
X
Relevant Chapter
0458-790-8621-A
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a
0000-GXX-2945-A0
a
0000-GXX-1217-A0
22.2 Inspecting and Maintaining the Chain Saw
WARNING
To reduce the risk of personal injury from unintended
activation, shut off the engine and engage the chain brake
before inspecting the chain saw or carrying out any
maintenance, @ 8. Carry out only the maintenance
operations described in this manual. There are no userauthorized repairs. STIHL recommends that repair work be
performed by authorized STIHL servicing dealers.
Proper maintenance of the chain saw includes the following
activities:
► Installing a new spark plug after approximately
100 operating hours or earlier if the electrodes are badly
eroded or corroded.
► Having the spark arresting screen inspected and cleaned
periodically by an authorized STIHL servicing dealer.
► Inspecting the chain sprocket periodically and having a
worn chain sprocket replaced by an authorized STIHL
servicing dealer.
► Inspecting the guide bar for proper groove depth and
spread and replacing the guide bar if it shows signs of
excessive wear or damage.
► Periodically sharpening the chain, maintaining the depth
limiting guides at the appropriate height and replacing the
saw chain when indicated by the relevant wear marks or
when the chain is damaged or shows signs of excessive
wear.
► Having worn, missing or damaged safety labels replaced
by an authorized STIHL servicing dealer.
If you make a warranty claim for a component that has not
been serviced or maintained properly, coverage may be
denied.
22 Inspection and Maintenance
► Check the chain sprocket cover for wear marks.
► If the wear marks are deeper than a = 0.020 in. (0.5 mm),
have the chain sprocket replaced.
STIHL recommends using genuine STIHL chain sprockets to
ensure optimal functioning of the chain brake.
Alternating between two chains helps reduce wear to the
chain sprocket.
22.4 Inspecting and Maintaining the Guide Bar
► Shut off the engine and engage the chain brake.
► Remove the guide bar and saw chain, @ 10.2.2.
22.3 Inspecting and Maintaining the Chain Sprocket
► Shut off the engine and engage the chain brake.
► Remove the chain sprocket cover, saw chain and guide
bar.
54
► Measure the depth of the guide bar groove in the area with
the greatest wear using the measuring tool on the file
gauge (special accessory, not included).
► Replace the guide bar if the measured depth is less than
the required minimum depths stated in @ 24.4.
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22 Inspection and Maintenance
1
2
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2
English
► Check the spread of the guide bar groove with the
measuring tool on the file gauge.
► Replace the guide bar if the groove is narrowed, spread or
shows other signs of substantial wear or damage.
To maintain the guide bar:
► Flip the guide bar after each sharpening and each time the
chain is changed. This will help reduce uneven wear.
There is no "top" or "bottom" of the bar. It may be used in
either orientation, even though the printing on the bar may
be upside down.
► Clean the oil outlet duct (1), oil inlet bore (2) and groove
(3) with a brush, a slightly dampened cloth or resin
solvent, such as STIHL Resin Remover & Lubricant. Do
not use detergents.
► Periodically remove any metal burrs that develop along
the guide bar with a flat file or a STIHL guide bar dressing
tool.
► Replace the guide bar if the burrs cannot be filed or if the
guide bar becomes damaged.
22.5 Inspecting, Maintaining and Sharpening the
Saw Chain
kickback tendency of the chain saw and can increase
kickback forces, making it more difficult to control the saw.
Always review and follow the sharpening angles and
dimensions recommended by STIHL when checking or
sharpening the chain.
WARNING
Never use a dull or damaged chain. This leads to increased
physical strain, increased vibration load, unsatisfactory
cutting results and increased wear. If the chips from cutting
are fine, more like saw dust than wood chips, the chain likely
is dull.
► Shut off the engine and engage the chain brake.
► Check the height of the depth gauge (1) with a STIHL file
gauge (2) matching the pitch of the chain.
► If the depth gauge protrudes higher than the file gauge,
file the depth gauge to the appropriate height.
► Work carefully. Do not file the depth gauge too low. A
depth gauge that is too low must be replaced or
sharpened by an authorized STIHL servicing dealer, as it
can increase the kickback tendency of the chain saw and
can increase kickback forces.
WARNING
An improperly sharpened chain can increase the risk of
kickback and other reactive forces, resulting in severe
personal injury or death. For example, depth gauges that are
too low or cutters that are filed incorrectly can increase the
0458-790-8621-A
55
English
0000-GXX-1372-A0
1
2
3
4
STIHL chain is manufactured with wear marks to help the
operator identify excessive wear. The wear marks depicted
above (1 - 4) must remain visible.
► Replace the chain if any wear marks are no longer visible.
► Check the 30° sharpening angle of the cutters with a
STIHL file gauge matching the pitch of the chain.
► If the sharpening angle is incorrect, file the cutters to a 30°
angle.
► If you are unable to achieve the proper angle, or suspect
you have not achieved the proper angle, have the chain
sharpened by an authorized STIHL servicing dealer.
An improperly filed chain can be very dangerous. It can
increase the potential for reactive forces, including kickback,
and also increase the magnitude of those reactive forces.
a
22 Inspection and Maintenance
Marking (a) Saw Chain Pitch
11/4"
2 .325"
33/8"
4 .404"
6 3/8" PICCO
7 1/4" PICCO
To sharpen the chain:
► Shut off the engine and engage the chain brake.
► Select a chain file with a diameter matching the pitch of
the chain.
Other files are unsuitable and can result in improperly filed
chain, which can increase the potential and force of
kickback and other reactive forces.
► Clamp the guide bar if necessary to make filing easier.
► To advance the chain, first disengage the chain brake,
@ 12.2.
► Use a file holder.
File holders have markings that indicate the proper
sharpening angle.
► File all the cutters with an identical angle. Two or three
strokes of the file are usually sufficient for simple
resharpening. Remove a little material with each stroke.
Sharpening at varying or inconsistent angles or heights
can be very dangerous and may result in rough or uneven
running of the chain and increased wear, even to the point
of chain breakage. It also can increase the tendency and
force of kickback and other reactive forces.
The chain pitch marking (a) is embossed in the area of the
depth gauge of each cutter.
The markings mean the following:
56
0000-GXX-1446-A0
0458-790-8621-A
22 Inspection and Maintenance
0000-GXX-1219-A0
0000-GXX-1220-A1
► Guide the file horizontally at a right angle to the side
surface of the guide bar in accordance with the specified
angle.
► File only from the inside of the cutter outward.
► Lift the file on the backstroke. The file only sharpens on
the forward stroke.
► Do not file tie straps or drive links.
► Periodically rotate the file in order to avoid uneven wear.
► To remove a file burr from the cutter tooth, run the cutter
across a piece of hardwood.
► Check the sharpening angle with a file gauge.
All cutters must be of equal length and filed down to the
length of the shortest cutter. Otherwise, the tendency and
force of kickback and other reactive forces will increase.
STIHL recommends having your chain sharpened by an
authorized STIHL servicing dealer to reduce the risk of
severe or fatal injury from an improperly sharpened chain.
English
a
0000-GXX-1447-A0
The depth gauge determines the depth to which the cutter
penetrates the wood and thus the chip thickness.
A depth gauge that is too low will increase the kickback
tendency of the chain saw and can increase kickback forces.
A depth gauge that is too high will prevent the cutter from
entering the workpiece and will lead to poor cutting
performance. Always keep the required distance (a)
between depth gauge and cutting edge, @ 24.5.
WARNING
Depth gauges that are too low increase the potential and
force of kickback and other reactive forces, which can
increase the risk of serious personal injury. Always maintain
the proper distance (a) between the depth gauge and the top
of the cutter.
0458-790-8621-A
To properly lower the depth gauge:
► Lay the appropriate file gauge for the chain pitch on the
chain and press it against the cutter to be checked. If the
depth gauge protrudes past the file gauge, the depth
gauge must be filed down.
► File the depth gauge so that it is flush with the top of the
file gauge.
57
English
► Afterwards, remove the file gauge and file the leading
edge of the depth gauge parallel to the service mark.
When doing this, be careful not to further lower the highest
point of the depth gauge.
► Lay the file gauge on the chain to check the height of the
file gauge. The highest point of the depth gauge must be
flush with the top of the file gauge.
► After sharpening, clean the chain thoroughly, removing
any filings or grinding dust.
► Oil the chain thoroughly.
22 Inspection and Maintenance
58
0458-790-8621-A
23 Troubleshooting Guide
English
23 Troubleshooting Guide
23.1 Chain saw
Many performance issues can be resolved with a few simple steps. When troubleshooting, STIHL recommends that you start
with the following measures:
► Clean the air filter, @ 21.3.
► Clean or replace the spark plug, @ 21.4.
► As appropriate for conditions, set the saw's "shutter" for winter or summer operation, @ 17.3 or @ 17.4.
► If these measures do not resolve the issue, continue to the steps described below.
Always shut off the engine before carrying out any inspection, cleaning or maintenance.
Condition Possible Cause Remedy
The engine does not start. There is insufficient fuel in the fuel tank. ► Refuel the chain saw, @ 13.2.
The engine is flooded. ► Clear the combustion chamber, @ 23.2.
The carburetor is iced up. ► Allow the engine to warm up gradually to a
temperature of about 50 °F (10 °C).
The engine idles
erratically.
The engine stops while
idling.
Acceleration is poor. The chain is tensioned too tight. ► Properly tension the chain, @ 10.3.
The engine does not reach
maximum speed.
The chain does not rotate
when throttle is opened.
During sawing, the wood
smokes or smells burnt.
The carburetor is iced up. ► Allow the engine to warm up gradually to a
temperature of about 50 °F (10 °C).
The carburetor is iced up. ► Allow the engine to warm up gradually to a
temperature of about 50 °F (10 °C).
Insufficient bar and chain oil. ► Increase oil feed rate, @ 11.3.
The chain saw is not properly calibrated to the
ambient conditions.
The chain brake is engaged. ► Disengage the chain brake, @ 12.2.
The chain is tensioned too tight. ► Properly tension the chain, @ 10.3.
The guide bar sprocket is blocked. ► Spray the guide bar sprocket with resin
The chain is dull or improperly sharpened. ► Properly sharpen the chain, @ 10.3.
Working technique is improper or the saw is
being mis-used.
Insufficient bar and chain oil. ► Have the chain lubrication mechanism
► Calibrate the chain saw, @ 17.2.
remover.
► Obtain instruction on proper working
technique.
checked by an authorized STIHL servicing
dealer.
0458-790-8621-A
59
English
11
3
0000-GXX-3809-A0
23.2 Clearing the Combustion Chamber
WARNING
To reduce the risk of fire and burn injury, use only spark
plugs authorized by STIHL. Always press the spark plug
boot snugly onto the spark plug terminal.
WARNING
To reduce the risk of fire, always move the Master Control
Lever to position before pulling the starter grip if the
spark plug boot has been removed.
If you believe the engine is flooded, you must clear the
combustion chamber before you can start the saw. To clear
the combustion chamber:
► Shut off the engine, @ 15.
► Engage the chain brake, @ 12.1.
► Allow the chain saw to cool down.
► Open the shroud locks (1) by turning them 1/4 turn
counter-clockwise with the combination wrench.
► Remove the shroud (2).
► Remove the spark plug boot (3).
► Unscrew the spark plug and dry it.
► Move the Master Control Lever to position .
► Pull the starter grip and guide it back several times.
The combustion chamber will be cleared.
24 Specifications
3
► Re-insert the spark plug and tighten it down firmly.
► Connect the spark plug boot (3) and press it down firmly.
► Place the shroud in position.
► Tighten the shroud locks until you hear an audible click.
24 Specifications
24.1 EPA
The Emission Compliance Period referenced on the
Emissions Compliance Label indicates the number of
operating hours for which the engine has been shown to
meet federal emission requirements.
Category:
A = 300 hours
B = 125 hours
C = 50 hours
24.2 STIHL MS 462 C-M
– Displacement: 4.41 cu. in. (72.2 cm³)
– Engine power according to ISO 7293: 5.9 bhp (4.4 kW)
– Idle speed according to ISO 11681: 2,800 ± 50 rpm
– Maximum engine speed: 13,500 rpm
– Recommended spark plugs: NGK CMR6H by STIHL
0000-GXX-5806-A0
60
0458-790-8621-A
24 Specifications
English
– Spark plug electrode gap: 0.02 in. (0.5 mm)
– Weight without fuel, oil, guide bar or saw chain:
– MS 462 C-M: 13.2 lbs. (6.0 kg)
– MS 462 C-M R with wrap-around handle:
13.9 lbs. (6.3 kg)
– Maximum fuel tank volume: 24.3 oz. (0.72 l)
– Maximum oil tank volume: 11.5 oz. (0.34 l)
Do not use BIA or TCW rated (2-cycle water cooled) mix oils
or other mix oils that state they are for use in both water
cooled and air cooled engines (e.g., outboard motors,
snowmobiles, chain saws, mopeds, etc.).
24.3 Chain Sprockets
The following chain sprockets are available for this model
chain saw:
– 7-tooth for 3/8" pitch
24.4 Minimum Groove Depth of Guide Bars
The minimum groove depth of a guide bar depends on the
pitch of the guide bar.
– Minimum groove depth for 3/8" pitch guide bars:
0.236 in. (6 mm)
24.5 Depth Gauge Setting
The depth gauge setting of a saw chain depends on the pitch
of the chain.
– Depth gauge setting for 3/8" pitch chains: 0.026 in.
(0.65 mm)
Chain Oil Tank
Direction of saw chain rotation
Oil Flow Adjusting Screw
Turn clockwise to tension the saw chain
Shutter configuration for winter operation
Shutter configuration for summer operation
Decompression Valve
Position of the Master Control Lever: Engine is shut
off
Position of the Master Control Lever: Engine is shut
off
Position of the Master Control Lever: Engine runs or
can fire
Position of the Master Control Lever: Used to start the
engine
Certification/listing mark of CSA
24.6 Symbols on the Chain Saw
Engage and disengage the chain brake.
Fuel Tank
0458-790-8621-A
STIHL products must not be disposed of in the
household trash, but only in accordance with local,
state and federal laws and regulations and as
provided in this manual, @ 27.
61
English
24.7 Engineering Improvements
STIHL's philosophy is to continually improve all of its
products. As a result, engineering changes and
improvements are made from time to time. Therefore, some
changes, modifications and improvements may not be
covered in this manual. If the operating characteristics or the
appearance of your machine differs from those described in
this manual, please contact your STIHL dealer or the STIHL
distributor in your area for assistance.
24 Specifications
62
0458-790-8621-A
25 Combinations of Guide Bars and Saw Chains
25 Combinations of Guide Bars and Saw Chains
25.1 STIHL MS 462 C-M
Pitch Drive link
gauge/groove
width
3/8”
3/8”
0.050 in.
(1.3 mm)
0.063 in.
(1.6 mm)
Length Guide Bar Number of teeth
16 in. (40 cm)
18 in. (45 cm)
20 in. (50 cm)
25 in. (63 cm)
28 in. (71 cm)
16 in. (40 cm)
18 in. (45 cm)
20 in. (50 cm)
22 in. (55 cm) Rollomatic ES 11 76
25 in. (63 cm)
28 in. (71 cm)
Rollomatic E
Rollomatic ES
Rollomatic E
Rollomatic ES
Rollomatic E
Rollomatic ES
Rollomatic ES Light
Duromatic -
Rollomatic E
Rollomatic ES Light
Rollomatic ES
Rollomatic ES Light
Rollomatic E
Rollomatic ES Light
Rollomatic E
Rollomatic ES
Rollomatic E
Rollomatic ES
Rollomatic ES Light
Duromatic -
Rollomatic E
Rollomatic ES Light
Rollomatic ES
Rollomatic ES Light
of sprocket nose
11 60
11 66
11
11 84Rollomatic ES
11 91
11 60
11 66
11
11 84Rollomatic ES
11 91
Drive link
count
72
72
English
Saw chain
33 RS (Type 3623)
33 RS3 (Type 3624)
33 RSF (Type 3676)
36 RS (Type 3621)
36 RS3 (Type 3626)
36 RSF (Type 3678)
0458-790-8621-A
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English
26 Replacement Parts and Equipment
The guide bar and chain combinations listed above meet the
45° computed kickback angle requirement of § 5.11 of
ANSI/OPEI B175.1 when used on this model chain saw with
the matching chain sprocket listed above.
Use replacement guide bars or chains only as listed above
or as listed elsewhere by STIHL as conforming with the 45°
computed kickback angle requirement of § 5.11 of
ANSI/OPEI B175.1 when used on this model chain saw.
The listed guide bars are green-labeled reduced kickback
STIHL guide bars. The listed chains are green-labeled low
kickback STIHL chains.
Since new bar/chain combinations may be developed after
publication of this manual, ask your authorized STIHL
servicing dealer for the latest STIHL recommendations.
26 Replacement Parts and Equipment
26.1 Genuine STIHL Replacement Parts
STIHL recommends the use of genuine STIHL replacement
parts. Genuine STIHL parts can be identified by the STIHL
part number, the logo and, in some cases, by the
STIHL parts symbol . The symbol may appear alone on
small parts.
27 Disposal
27.1 Disposal of the Chain Saw
STIHL products must not be thrown in household trash or
disposed of except as outlined in this manual.
► Take the chain saw, accessories and packaging to an
approved disposal site for environmentally friendly
recycling.
► Contact your authorized STIHL
latest information on disposal and recycling.
servicing dealer for the
28 Limited Warranty
28.1 STIHL Incorporated Limited Warranty Policy
This product is sold subject to the STIHL Incorporated
Limited Warranty Policy, available at
www.stihlusa.com/warranty.html. It can also be obtained
from your authorized STIHL dealer or by calling
1-800-GO-STIHL (1-800-467-8445).
29 Emission Control Warranty
29.1 STIHL Incorporated Federal Emission Control
Warranty Statement
Your Warranty Rights and Obligations
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and
STIHL Incorporated are pleased to explain the Emission
Control System Warranty on your equipment type engine. In
the U.S. new 1997 and later model year small off-road
equipment engines must be designed, built and equipped, at
the time of sale, to meet the U.S. EPA regulations for small
non road engines. The equipment engine must be free from
defects in materials and workmanship which cause it to fail
to conform with U.S. EPA standards for the first two years of
engine use from the date of sale to the ultimate purchaser.
STIHL Incorporated must warrant the emission control
system on your small off-road engine for the period of time
listed below provided there has been no abuse, neglect or
improper maintenance of your small off-road equipment
engine.
Your emission control system includes parts such as the
carburetor and the ignition system. Also included may be
hoses, and connectors and other emission-related
assemblies.
64
0458-790-8621-A
29 Emission Control Warranty
English
Where a warrantable condition exists, STIHL Incorporated
will repair your small off-road equipment engine at no cost to
you including diagnosis (if the diagnostic work is performed
at an authorized dealer), parts and labor.
Manufacturer's Warranty Coverage
In the U.S., 1997 and later model year small off-road
equipment engines are warranted for two years. If any
emission-related part on your engine is defective, the part
will be repaired or replaced by STIHL Incorporated free of
charge.
Owner's Warranty Responsibilities
As the small off-road equipment engine owner, you are
responsible for the performance of the required
maintenance listed in your instruction manual. STIHL
Incorporated recommends that you retain all receipts
covering maintenance on your small off-road equipment
engine, but STIHL Incorporated cannot deny warranty solely
for the lack of receipts or for your failure to ensure the
performance of all scheduled maintenance.
Any replacement part or service that is equivalent in
performance and durability may be used in non-warranty
maintenance or repairs, and shall not reduce the warranty
obligations of the engine manufacturer.
As the small off-road equipment engine owner, you should
be aware, however, that STIHL Incorporated may deny you
warranty coverage if your small off-road equipment engine
or a part has failed due to abuse, neglect, improper
maintenance or unapproved modifications.
You are responsible for presenting your small off-road
equipment engine to a STIHL service center as soon as a
problem exists. The warranty repairs will be completed in a
reasonable amount of time, not to exceed 30 days.
If you have any questions regarding your warranty rights and
responsibilities, please contact a STIHL customer service
representative at 1-800-467-8445 or you can write to
STIHL Inc, 536 Viking Drive, P.O. Box 2015, Virginia Beach,
VA 23450-2015 (www.stihlusa.com)
Coverage by STIHL Incorporated
STIHL Incorporated warrants to the ultimate purchaser and
each subsequent purchaser that your small off-road
equipment engine will be designed, built and equipped, at
the time of sale, to meet all applicable emissions
regulations. STIHL Incorporated also warrants to the initial
purchaser and each subsequent purchaser that your engine
is free from defects in materials and workmanship which
cause the engine to fail to conform with applicable emissions
regulations for a period of two years.
Warranty Period
The warranty period will begin on the date the utility
equipment engine is purchased by the initial purchaser.
Product registration is recommended, so that STIHL has a
means to contact you if there ever is a need to communicate
repair or recall information about your product, but it is not
required in order to obtain warranty service.
If any emission-related part on your engine is defective, the
part will be replaced by STIHL Incorporated at no cost to the
owner. Any warranted part which is not scheduled for
replacement as required maintenance, or which is
scheduled only for regular inspection to the effect of "repair
or replace as necessary" will be warranted for the warranty
period. Any warranted part which is scheduled for
replacement as required maintenance will be warranted for
the period of time up to the first scheduled replacement point
for that part.
Diagnosis
You, as the owner, shall not be charged for diagnostic labor
which leads to the determination that a warranted emissions
part is defective. However, if you claim warranty for an
emissions component and the machine is tested as nondefective, STIHL Incorporated will charge you for the cost of
the emission test. Mechanical diagnostic work will be
performed at an authorized STIHL servicing dealer.
Emission test may be performed either at STIHL
Incorporated or at any independent test laboratory.
0458-790-8621-A
65
English
30 Trademarks
Warranty Work
STIHL Incorporated shall remedy warranty defects at any
authorized STIHL servicing dealer or warranty station. Any
such work shall be free of charge to the owner if it is
determined that a warranted part is defective.
Any manufacturer-approved or equivalent replacement part
may be used for any warranty maintenance or repairs on
emission-related parts and must be provided without charge
to the owner. STIHL Incorporated is liable for damages to
other engine components caused by the failure of an
emissions warranted part still under warranty.
The following list specifically defines the emission-related
warranted parts:
– Air Filter
– Carburetor (if applicable)
– Clamps
– Control Linkages
– Cylinder
– Fly Wheel
–Fasteners
– Fuel Cap
– Fuel Line
– Fuel Line Fittings
–Fuel Pump
–Fuel Tank
– Intake Manifold
– Magneto or Electronic Ignition System (Ignition Module or
Electronic Control Unit)
– Muffler
– Spark Plug
– Solenoid Valve (if applicable)
– Catalytic Converter (if applicable)
– Choke (Cold Start Enrichment System) (if applicable)
– Injection Pump (if applicable)
– Injection Valve (if applicable)
– Throttle Housing (if applicable)
Where to Make a Claim for Warranty Service
Bring the product to any authorized STIHL servicing dealer.
Maintenance Requirements
The maintenance instructions in this manual are based on
the application of the recommended 2-stroke fuel-oil
mixture. Deviations from this recommendation regarding
quality and mixing ratio of fuel and oil may require shorter
maintenance intervals.
Limitations
This Emission Control Systems Warranty shall not cover any
of the following:
– repair or replacement required because of misuse,
neglect or lack of required maintenance,
– repairs improperly performed or replacements not
conforming to STIHL Incorporated specifications that
adversely affect performance and/or durability, and
alterations or modifications not recommended or
approved in writing by STIHL Incorporated,
– replacement of parts and other services and adjustments
necessary for required maintenance at and after the first
scheduled replacement point.
30 Trademarks
30.1 Registered Trademarks
STIHL
®
FARM BOSS
iCademy
MAGNUM
®
®
®
66
0458-790-8621-A
31 Addresses
TM
STIHL
Injection
English
The color combination
orange-grey (U.S.
Registrations #2,821,860;
#3,010,057, #3,010,058,
#3,400,477; and
#3,400,476)
AutoCut
YARD BOSS
STIHL ROLLOMATIC
WOOD BOSS
®
®
®
®
MasterWrench Service
MotoMix
OILOMATIC
ROCK BOSS
STIHL Cutquik
®
®
®
®
STIHL DUROMATIC
STIHL Quickstop
STIHL WOOD BOSS
TIMBERSPORTS
®
®
®
®
®
30.2 Common Law Trademarks
4-MIX™ HT Plus™
BioPlus™ STIHL PowerSweep™
Easy2Start™ STIHL Protech™
EasySpool™ STIHL MiniBoss™
ElastoStart™ STIHL MotoPlus 4™
Ematic™ Master Control Lever™
STIHL Precision Series™ STIHL OUTFITTERS™
FixCut™ STIHL PICCO™
Micro™ TrimCut™
Pro Mark™ STIHL M-Tronic™
Quad Power™ STIHL HomeScaper Series™
Quiet Line™ STIHL PolyCut™
STIHL Arctic™ STIHL RAPID™
STIHL Compact™ STIHL SuperCut™
STIHL Interchangeable
Attachment Series™
TapAction™ STIHL Territory™
STIHL Multi-Cut HomeScaper
Series™
Any unauthorized use of these trademarks without the
express written consent of ANDREAS STIHL AG & Co. KG,
Waiblingen is strictly prohibited.
31 Addresses
31.1 STIHL Incorporated
STIHL Incorporated
536 Viking Drive
P.O. Box 2015
Virginia Beach, VA
23452-2015
This listing of trademarks is subject to change.
0458-790-8621-A
67
Contenido
español / EE.UU
1 Introducción
2 Acerca de este manual de instrucciones
2.1 Palabras identificadoras
2.2 Símbolos en el texto
3 Componentes importantes
3.1 Motosierra
4 Símbolos de seguridad en el producto
4.1 Motosierra
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
. . . . . . . . . . . .
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
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. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
. . . . . . . . . . . . . .
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
5 INSTRUCCIONES IMPORTANTES DE
SEGURIDAD
5.1 Uso previsto
5.2 Operador
5.3 Equipos de protección personal
5.4 Motosierra
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
5.5 Instrucciones para el llenado de combustible
5.6 Uso de la motosierra
6 Contragolpe y otras fuerzas reactivas
6.1 Fuerzas reactivas
6.2 Contragolpe
6.3 Tirones
6.4 Rechazo
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
. . . . . . . . . . . . . .
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
7 Técnicas adecuadas para el tronzado, el
desramado, la poda y la tala básicos
7.1 Tronzado
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
7.2 Corte de troncos bajo tensión
7.3 Desrame
7.4 Poda
7.5 Tala
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8 Mantenimiento, reparación y almacenamiento
8.1 Advertencias e instrucciones
9 Antes de empezar a trabajar
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9.1 Preparación de la motosierra para el
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10 Armado de la motosierra
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10.2 Montaje y retiro de la espada y la cadena de
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aserrado
10.3 Tensado de la cadena
11 Lubricación de la cadena de aserrado y de la
espada
11.1 Lubricante de espadas y cadenas
11.2 Llenado del depósito de aceite de la cadena
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cadena
12 El freno de cadena
12.1 Accionamiento del freno de la cadena
12.2 Cómo soltar el freno de la cadena
12.3 Mantenimiento del freno de la cadena
13 Mezcla del combustible y carga de combustible
en la motosierra
13.1 Mezcla del combustible
13.2 Carga de combustible en la motosierra
14 Arranque del motor
14.1 Sujeción de la motosierra
14.2 Arranque del motor
15 Apagado del motor
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16 Revisión de la motosierra
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16.1 Control del funcionamiento del freno de la
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cadena
16.2 Prueba de los controles
16.3 Prueba de la lubricación de la cadena
17 Ajuste del carburador
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17.1 Sistema de gestión del motor STIHL M-Tronic
17.2 Calibración de la motosierra
17.3 Manejo durante el invierno
17.4 Manejo durante el verano
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0000008245_006_EA
Manual de instrucciones original Impreso en papel libre de cloro.
Las tintas contienen aceites vegetales, el papel es reciclable.
© ANDREAS STIHL AG & Co. KG 2020
0458-790-8621-A. VA5.L20.
68
Este manual de instrucciones está protegido por derechos de propiedad intelectual. Todos los derechos reservados, especialmente los derechos de reproducción, traducción y procesamiento con sistemas electrónicos.
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18 Después de completar el trabajo
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18.1 Preparación para el transporte o el
almacenamiento
19 Transporte
19.1 Transporte de la motosierra
20 Almacenamiento
20.1 Almacenamiento de la motosierra
21 Limpieza
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21.1 Limpieza de la motosierra
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21.2 Limpieza de la espada y la cadena de aserrado
21.3 Limpieza del filtro de aire
21.4 Limpieza de la bujía
22 Inspección y mantenimiento
22.1 Tabla de inspección y mantenimiento
22.2 Inspección y mantenimiento de la motosierra
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22.3 Revisión y mantenimiento del piñón de cadena
22.4 Inspección y mantenimiento de la espada
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22.5 Inspección, mantenimiento y afilado de la
cadena de aserrado
23 Guía de solución de problemas
23.1 Motosierra
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23.2 Despejado de la cámara de combustión
24 Especificaciones
24.1 E.P.A.
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24.2 STIHL MS 462 C-M
24.3 Piñones de cadena
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24.4 Profundidad de ranura mínima para las espadas
24.5 Ajuste de calibrador de profundidad
24.6 Símbolos en la motosierra
24.7 Mejoramientos técnicos
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25 Combinaciones de espadas y cadenas de
aserrado
25.1 STIHL MS 462 C-M
26 Piezas y equipos de repuesto
26.1 Piezas de repuesto originales de STIHL
27 Eliminación
27.1 Eliminación de la motosierra
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28 Garantía limitada
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28.1 Política de garantía limitada de STIHL
Incorporated
29 Garantía del sistema de control de emisiones
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29.1 Declaración de garantía de STIHL Incorporated
sobre sistemas de control de emisiones según
normas Federales
30 Marcas comerciales
30.1 Marcas comerciales registradas
30.2 Marcas comerciales por ley común
31 Direcciones
31.1 STIHL Incorporated
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1 Introducción
1Introducción
Gracias por su compra. La información que contiene este
manual lo ayudará a obtener el máximo rendimiento y
satisfacción de la motosierra STIHL, y a reducir el riesgo de
lesiones que supone su uso, si dicha información se
respeta.
¡CONSERVE ESTE MANUAL!
Dado que la motosierra es una herramienta
motorizada para cortar madera que funciona a
gran velocidad, es necesario tomar medidas
especiales de seguridad para reducir el riesgo
de lesiones.
Lea este manual de instrucciones
detenidamente antes del uso y periódicamente
de allí en adelante. Aténgase a todas las
instrucciones de seguridad. El uso descuidado o
inadecuado de cualquier motosierra puede
causar lesiones graves e incluso mortales.
Pida a su concesionario de servicio STIHL autorizado que le
enseñe el manejo de la motosierra. Todas las medidas de
seguridad que por lo general se toman cuando se trabaja
con un hacha o sierra manual también son aplicables al
manejo de las motosierras. Respete todas las
disposiciones, reglamentos y normas de seguridad
federales, estatales y locales del caso.
No preste ni alquile nunca su motosierra sin el manual de
instrucciones. Solamente permita que personas
debidamente capacitadas y que comprendan la información
de este manual por completo manejen la motosierra.
Para obtener más información, o si no comprende alguna de
las instrucciones incluidas en este manual, visite
www.stihlusa.com o comuníquese con el concesionario de
STIHL.
2 Acerca de este manual de
instrucciones
2.1 Palabras identificadoras
Este manual contiene información sobre seguridad a la que
usted debe prestar atención especial. Dicha información se
indica con los siguientes símbolos y palabras
identificadoras:
PELIGRO
Identifica una situación de peligro que, de no evitarse,
causará lesiones graves o mortales.
ADVERTENCIA
Identifica una situación de peligro que, de no evitarse,
podría causar lesiones graves o mortales.
INDICACIÓN
Indica el riesgo de daños a la propiedad, incluidos la
máquina o sus componentes.
2.2 Símbolos en el texto
El siguiente símbolo tiene como finalidad ayudarlo a utilizar
este manual.
Hace referencia a un capítulo o subcapítulo designado
en este manual de instrucciones.
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3 Componentes importantes
3.1 Motosierra
1 Protector delantero de la mano
Ayuda a proteger la mano izquierda del operador de las
ramas prominentes y del contacto con la cadena de
aserrado. Funciona como la palanca activadora del freno
de la cadena.
2 Silenciador con chispero
Reduce los ruidos del escape del motor y desvía los
gases de escape lejos del usuario. El chispero reduce el
riesgo de incendios.
3 Púa de tope
Ayuda a sostener la sierra fija contra la pieza de madera
durante el corte.
4 Cadena de aserrado
Herramienta de corte dentada formada por cortadores,
amarras y eslabones impulsores.
5Espada
Sirve de soporte y de guía de la cadena de aserrado.
6 Gancho retenedor de la cadena
Ayuda a contener la cadena de aserrado y reducir el
riesgo de contacto con el operador en caso de que la
cadena se rompa y se salga de la espada.
7 Tensor lateral de la cadena
Permite el ajuste preciso de la tensión de la cadena de
aserrado.
8 Piñón de la cadena
Impulsa la cadena de aserrado.
9 Cubierta del piñón de la cadena
Cubre el piñón de la cadena.
10 Tuercas
Ajusta la cubierta del piñón contra la motosierra.
11 Cubierta
Cubre el filtro de aire y el motor.
12 Bloqueo de envuelta
Una traba para la envuelta.
13 Mango delantero
Mango para la mano izquierda del operador.
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4 Símbolos de seguridad en el producto
14 Válvula de descompresión (no disponible para todos los
modelos)
Facilita el arranque.
15 Bujía
Enciende la mezcla de combustible/aire en el motor.
16 Obturador para marcha en verano e invierno
Con posiciones para invierno y verano. El carburador se
calienta en la posición de invierno.
17 Casquillo de bujía
Conecta la bujía al alambre de encendido.
18 Filtro de aire
Filtra el aire que se aspira dentro del motor.
19 Bloqueo de gatillo de aceleración
Impide la activación del gatillo de aceleración hasta que
no se encuentre oprimido.
20 Mango trasero
Mango para la mano derecha del operador.
21 Protector trasero de la mano
Ayuda a proteger la mano derecha del operador en caso
de que se rompa la cadena o se salga la espada.
22 Gatillo de aceleración
Regula la velocidad del motor.
23 Palanca de control maestro
Palanca para controlar el estrangulador, acelerador de
arranque, posiciones del interruptor de funcionamiento y
parada.
24 Tapa de llenado de combustible
Cierra y sella el depósito de combustible.
25 Mango de arranque
El mango del arrancador usado para arrancar el motor.
26 Tornillo de ajuste de flujo del aceite
Ajusta la cantidad de aceite aplicado a la cadena.
27 Limitador del ajuste de aceite
Limita la carrera del tornillo de ajuste de flujo del aceite.
28 Tapa de llenado de aceite
Cierra y sella el tanque de aceite.
29 Funda de la cadena
Cubre la espada y la cadena de aserrado para reducir el
riesgo de lesiones causadas por el contacto accidental
durante el transporte o el almacenamiento.
Embrague (no se ilustra)
Embraga el piñón de la cadena cuando se acelera el
motor por encima de la marcha en vacío.
Sistema antivibración (no se ilustra)
El sistema antivibración incluye varios elementos
antivibración diseñados para reducir la transmisión de
las vibraciones del motor y del accesorio de corte a las
manos del operador.
# Chapa de información
Contiene el número de serie del producto.
4 Símbolos de seguridad en el producto
4.1 Motosierra
Los siguientes símbolos de seguridad están presentes en la
motosierra:
Para reducir el riesgo de lesiones, respete las
medidas de seguridad especificadas.
Lea y aténgase a todas las precauciones de
seguridad dadas en el manual de instrucciones.
El uso inadecuado puede provocar lesiones
personales graves o mortales o daños a la
propiedad.
Para reducir el riesgo de lesiones personales
graves y la pérdida del oído, siempre use gafas
protectoras adecuadas y protectores en los
oídos y un casco protector aprobado, @ 5.3.
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5 INSTRUCCIONES IMPORTANTES DE SEGURIDAD
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Evite que la punta de la espada choque con
cualquier tipo de objeto. Eso puede hacer que la
espada salte de repente hacia arriba y hacia
atrás, lo que podría provocar lesiones graves o
mortales. Siempre maneje la sierra con las dos
manos, @ 6.
5 INSTRUCCIONES IMPORTANTES
DE SEGURIDAD
5.1 Uso previsto
ADVERTENCIA
￭ Esta motosierra está diseñada para cortar árboles y
ramas. Si la motosierra se usa para trabajos para los que
no ha sido diseñada, podría provocar lesiones graves o
incluso la muerte.
– Corte únicamente madera. No utilice la motosierra,
por ejemplo, para cortar metal, plástico o
mampostería.
– Lea y respete las instrucciones de manejo y de uso
de este manual para conocer las aplicaciones
aprobadas y las técnicas de trabajo recomendadas.
￭ Respete todas las disposiciones, los reglamentos y las
normas de seguridad federales, estatales y locales
aplicables.
– Cuando use una motosierra para trabajos de tala,
por ejemplo, consulte las regulaciones de la OSHA
sobre "trabajos de tala", Código 29 de los
Reglamentos Federales 1910.266.
￭ Un uso indebido podría causar lesiones o daños
materiales, incluidos daños en la motosierra.
– Use la motosierra solo como se describe en este
manual.
– Nunca intente modificar ni anular en modo alguno
los controles ni los dispositivos de seguridad de la
motosierra.
– Nunca use una motosierra que se haya modificado
o alterado, apartándose de su diseño original.
5.2 Operador
ADVERTENCIA
￭ Trabajar con la motosierra puede ser extenuante. El
operador debe hallarse en buenas condiciones tanto
físicas como mentales. Para reducir el riesgo de lesiones
personales causadas por fatiga o pérdida del control:
– Consulte a su médico antes de usar la motosierra si
tiene una afección de salud que pueda agravarse
por el trabajo extenuante.
– No haga funcionar la motosierra si se encuentra bajo
la influencia de cualquier sustancia (drogas, alcohol,
medicamentos, etc.) que puedan afectar la visión, el
equilibrio, la destreza o el juicio.
– Esté alerta. No haga funcionar la motosierra si está
cansado. Tómese un descanso si se siente
cansado.
– No permita que menores utilicen la motosierra.
– No se debe permitir la proximidad de otros,
especialmente niños y animales, donde se esté
utilizando la motosierra.
￭ El uso prolongado de una motosierra (u otras
herramientas motorizadas) que exponen al operador a
vibraciones puede causar la enfermedad de dedos
muertos (fenómeno de Raynaud) o el síndrome del túnel
carpiano. Estas afecciones reducen la capacidad de la
mano de sentir y regular la temperatura. Producen
entumecimiento y sensaciones de ardor, y también
pueden causar daños en los nervios y la circulación,
además de necrosis tisular.
￭ Se desconocen todos los factores que contribuyen a la
enfermedad de Raynaud. El clima frío, el consumo de
tabaco y las enfermedades o afecciones físicas que
afectan los vasos sanguíneos y la circulación de la
sangre, además de los niveles altos de vibración y los
períodos largos de exposición a vibraciones se
mencionan como factores en el desarrollo de la
enfermedad de Raynaud.
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5 INSTRUCCIONES IMPORTANTES DE SEGURIDAD
￭ Las motosierras de STIHL están equipadas con un
sistema antivibración ("AV"), diseñado para reducir la
transmisión de las vibraciones de la motosierra a las
manos del operador. Para reducir el riesgo de esta
enfermedad y del síndrome de túnel carpiano:
– Use guantes mientras trabaja y mantenga las manos
abrigadas.
– Mantenga la motosierra y el sistema AV en buenas
condiciones. Si la motosierra posee componentes
flojos o elementos AV dañados o desgastados,
seguramente tendrá niveles más altos de vibración.
– Mantenga afilada la cadena de aserrado. Una
cadena sin filo aumentará el tiempo de corte, y el
presionar una cadena roma a través de la madera
aumentará las vibraciones transmitidas a las manos.
– Agarre firmemente los mangos en todo momento,
pero no los apriete con fuerza constante y excesiva.
Tómese descansos frecuentes.
￭ Estas precauciones no garantizan que no sufra de la
enfermedad de Raynaud o del síndrome de túnel
carpiano.
– Controle atentamente el estado de sus manos y
dedos si es un usuario regular.
– Consulte al médico de inmediato si aparece alguno
de los síntomas mencionados anteriormente.
￭ El sistema de encendido de la máquina produce un
campo electromagnético de intensidad muy baja. Este
puede interferir con algunos tipos de marcapasos y
dispositivos médicos implantados. Para reducir el riesgo
de lesiones:
– Sin embargo, las personas con marcapasos o con
dispositivos médicos implantados deben consultar a
su médico o al fabricante del dispositivo antes de
utilizar esta motosierra.
5.3 Equipos de protección personal
ADVERTENCIA
￭ Para reducir el riesgo de lesiones personales:
– Siempre use ropa adecuada y trajes protectores,
incluidas gafas protectoras adecuadas.
￭ Si el cabello, la ropa o los trajes entran en contacto con la
cadena de aserrado en movimiento o se enredan en los
componentes de la sierra, podrían perderse el control y
producirse lesiones cortantes graves. Para reducir el
riesgo de lesiones personales graves:
– Use ropa resistente y ajustada que
permita una completa libertad de
movimiento.
– Use el tipo de monos, pantalones largos
o chaparreras que contengan
protectores de material resistente a los
cortes.
– Use una camisa de manga larga o una chaqueta.
– Evite el uso de chaquetas sueltas, bufandas,
corbatas, pantalones acampanados o con vueltas,
joyas o cualquier otra vestimenta que pueda
engancharse en las ramas, matorrales o la cadena
en movimiento.
– Sujétese el cabello por encima de los hombros antes
de empezar a trabajar.
￭ Para reducir el riesgo de lesiones oculares:
– Siempre utilice gafas o anteojos
protectores bien ajustados con
protección lateral resistentes a impactos
y que porten designaciones que indiquen
que cumplen con la norma
ANSI Z87 «+».
– Para reducir el riesgo de lesionarse la cara, STIHL
recomienda usar también una careta o protector
facial adecuado sobre las gafas o anteojos de
seguridad.
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￭ Para reducir el riesgo de lesiones en la cabeza debido a
las ramas o los objetos encontrados que caen durante el
trabajo:
– Use un casco protector aprobado.
￭ La exposición prolongada al ruido emitido por la
herramienta podría causarle daños permanentes al oído.
Para reducir el riesgo de lesiones auditivas:
– Use barreras de sonido (tapones u
orejeras).
– Los operadores regulares deben
someterse con frecuencia a un examen
de control auditivo.
– Esté especialmente alerta y atento al
usar protección auditiva. Su capacidad
para oír gritos, alarmas u otras
advertencias sonoras estará restringida.
￭ Es muy importante tener una buena superficie de apoyo
para los pies. Para ayudar a mantener un punto de apoyo
seguro y reducir el riesgo de lesiones mientras trabaja:
– Póngase botas gruesas con suela
antideslizante. Recomendamos las
botas de seguridad con puntera de
acero. Nunca use sandalias, ojotas,
zapatos que dejen los dedos
descubiertos ni calzado de ese tipo.
￭ Para mejorar el manejo y ayudar a proteger las manos:
– Siempre use guantes de trabajo gruesos
antideslizantes de cuero o de otro
material resistente al desgaste para
manipular la motosierra o su cadena.
5.4 Motosierra
ADVERTENCIA
￭ La cadena de aserrado tiene muchas picas afiladas. Si las
picas llegan a tocarle, causarán laceraciones graves, aun
si la cadena no se está moviendo. Para reducir el riesgo
de este tipo de lesiones:
– Mantenga las manos, los pies y cualquier otra parte
del cuerpo lejos de la cadena.
– Use guantes resistentes al manipular la motosierra
o la cadena.
– No toque nunca con las manos o cualquier parte del
cuerpo la cadena que está en movimiento.
– Cubra la espada con una funda antes de transportar
o guardar la motosierra para reducir el riesgo
lesiones causadas por el contacto accidental.
￭ Las fuerzas reactivas, incluido el contragolpe, pueden ser
peligrosas.
– Preste especial atención a la sección “Contragolpe
y otras fuerzas reactivas” de este manual de
instrucciones, @ 6.
￭ Para reducir el riesgo de lesiones personales al operador
y a los espectadores:
– Siempre suelte el gatillo, aplique el freno de la
cadena y apague el motor antes de armar,
transportar, ajustar, inspeccionar, limpiar, darle
servicio o mantenimiento o guardar la motosierra.
– Apague la motosierra cuando no esté en uso.
￭ Para reducir el riesgo de incendio y explosión:
– Use únicamente la bujía especificada en el presente
manual de instrucciones y asegúrese de que tanto la
bujía como el cable de encendido estén limpios y en
buen estado.
– Siempre inserte el casquillo de la bujía bien
apretado en el borne de la bujía del tamaño
adecuado.
– No pruebe nunca el sistema de encendido con el
casquillo desconectado de la bujía, o sin tener
instalada la bujía.
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￭ Aunque algunos accesorios no autorizados podrían
encajar con las motosierras STIHL, su uso podría resultar
extremadamente peligroso. Utilice únicamente los
accesorios suministrados por STIHL o expresamente
autorizados por STIHL para usarse con este modelo
específico de máquina.
– Use solo los accesorios suministrados o
expresamente aprobados por STIHL.
– No realice modificaciones de ningún tipo en esta
motosierra.
– Nunca intente modificar ni anular los controles ni los
dispositivos de seguridad de la motosierra de ningún
modo.
– Nunca utilice una motosierra que haya sido
modificada o alterada, apartándose de su diseño
original.
￭ Toda modificación del silenciador o del chispero podría
causar un aumento en el calor irradiado, las chispas o el
nivel de ruidos, aumentándose así el riesgo de incendios,
quemaduras o pérdidas de capacidad audtiiva. Además,
se podría dañar permanentemente el motor.
– Nunca modifique el silenciador ni el chispero.
￭ Si la motosierra se cae o se expone a fuertes impactos
similares a los de una caída:
– Asegúrese de que no se haya dañado, de que esté
en buenas condiciones y de que funcione
correctamente antes de seguir con el trabajo.
– Compruebe que el sistema de combustible esté
apretado y libre de fugas.
– Compruebe que los controles y los dispositivos de
seguridad, incluido el freno de la cadena, funcionen
correctamente, @ 16.
– Nunca trabaje con una motosierra dañada o
defectuosa. Ante cualquier duda, pídale a un
concesionario de servicio de STIHL autorizado que
revise la motosierra.
￭ Los repuestos genuinos de STIHL han sido diseñados
específicamente para su motosierra y satisfacen los
requisitos de seguridad y de rendimiento. El uso de
componentes no autorizados o no aprobados por STIHL
puede causar lesiones graves o mortales y daños a la
propiedad.
– STIHL recomienda que solo se utilicen repuestos
STIHL idénticos.
5.5 Instrucciones para el llenado de combustible
Combustible
ADVERTENCIA
￭ La gasolina y sus vapores son sumamente inflamables.
La motosierra STIHL utiliza una mezcla de aceite y
gasolina como combustible. Si se derrama y arde a causa
de una chispa u otra fuente de ignición, puede provocar
un incendio y quemaduras graves o daños a la propiedad.
– Tenga sumo cuidado cuando manipule
gasolina o la mezcla de combustible.
– No fume cerca del combustible, ni
acerque ningún fuego o llama expuesta
a la motosierra o el combustible.
– Puede escapar vapor inflamable del
sistema de combustible.
Elija un lugar seguro para cargar combustible
ADVERTENCIA
￭ Para reducir el riesgo de incendios y explosiones durante
la carga de combustible:
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– Cargue la motosierra con combustible en
una zona bien ventilada, a la intemperie,
alejado de llamas, pilotos, calentadores,
motores eléctricos y otras fuentes de
encendido. Una chispa o llama que está
a varios metros de distancia puede
encender los vapores.
– Elija un punto de suelo raso para cargar
el combustible y aléjese 3 m (10 pies)
por lo menos de ese punto antes de
arrancar el motor.
– Limpie todo el combustible derramado
antes de arrancar la motosierra.
– Tenga cuidado de no mancharse la ropa
con combustible. Si la mancha,
cámbiesela inmediatamente.
Permita que la sierra se enfríe antes de quitar la tapa del
depósito de combustible
ADVERTENCIA
￭ Dentro del depósito de combustible se puede acumular
presión de los vapores del combustible. La magnitud de la
presión depende de varios factores, tales como el tipo de
combustible empleado, la altitud y la temperatura. Para
reducir el riesgo de quemaduras y otras lesiones
personales causadas por los escapes de vapores de gas
y humo:
– Siempre apague el motor y deje que se enfríe antes
de quitar la tapa del depósito de combustible.
￭ El motor es enfriado por aire. Cuando está apagado, ya no
se aspira aire de enfriamiento por el cilindro y la
temperatura del motor aumentará por varios minutos
antes de que empiece a enfriarse. En entornos calientes,
el enfriamiento tarda más. Para reducir el riesgo de
quemaduras y otras lesiones personales causadas por los
escapes de vapores de gas y humo:
– Deje que la motosierra se enfríe. Si resulta
necesario cargar combustible antes de finalizar un
trabajo, apague el motor y permita que el motor se
enfríe antes de abrir el depósito de combustible.
Rocío o “efecto géiser” del combustible
ADVERTENCIA
￭ Si se quita la tapa del depósito de combustible cuando
está a presión, se podría causar la liberación explosiva de
gasolina, vapores y humos en todas las direcciones. Los
escapes de gasolina, vapores o humos pueden causar
lesiones personales graves, incluso incendios y
quemaduras, y daños a la propiedad, .
￭ El rocío de combustible, a veces descrito como “efecto
géiser”, es la expulsión violenta de combustible, vapores
y humo que puede suceder en condiciones calientes, o si
el motor está caliente y se abre el depósito sin permitir
que la sierra se enfríe de modo adecuado. Esto es más
probable cuando el depósito está lleno a la mitad o más.
￭ La presión es causada por el combustible y el calor y
puede acumularse aun si el motor no ha estado en
marcha. Cuando la gasolina del depósito se calienta (por
la temperatura ambiente, el calor del motor u otras
fuentes), la presión del vapor aumenta dentro del
depósito.
￭ Algunas mezclas de combustible, en particular las
mezclas de invierno, pueden presurizar al depósito más
rápidamente o acumular presiones mayores. A alturas
grandes, la presurización del depósito de combustible es
más probable.
Cómo evitar el rocío de combustible
ADVERTENCIA
￭ Si se quita la tapa del depósito cuando está a presión, se
podría causar la liberación explosiva de gasolina, vapores
y humos en todas las direcciones. Para reducir el riesgo
de quemaduras, lesiones graves y daños a la propiedad a
causa del rocío de combustible:
– Aténgase a las instrucciones de carga de
combustible dadas en este capítulo.
– Siempre suponga que el depósito de combustible
está presurizado.
– Permita que la sierra se enfríe antes de quitar la
tapa.
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– Si resulta necesario cargar combustible antes de
finalizar un trabajo, apague la máquina y permita
que el motor se enfríe antes de quitar la tapa de
combustible.
– En entornos calientes, el enfriamiento tarda más.
– El motor es enfriado por aire. Cuando está apagado,
ya no se aspira aire de enfriamiento por el cilindro y
la temperatura del motor aumentará por varios
minutos antes de que empiece a enfriarse.
￭ Después de que la motosierra se haya apagado
debidamente, aténgase a las instrucciones de seguridad
dadas en este capítulo para quitar la tapa.
– Nunca quite la tapa por medio de girarla
directamente a la posición abierta.
– Primero revise si hay presión residual por medio de
girar la tapa lentamente a la posición de ventilación,
aproximadamente 1/8 de vuelta en sentido
contrahorario.
– Utilice solamente combustible de buena calidad,
adecuado para la temporada (mezcla de invierno o
de verano). Algunas mezclas de combustible, en
particular las mezclas de invierno, son más volátiles
y pueden contribuir al rocío de combustible.
Cómo quitar la tapa de combustible sin herramientas: Gire
lentamente y deténgase en la posición de ventilación
ADVERTENCIA
￭
123
￭ Después de permitir que la motosierra se enfríe, quite la
tapa de llenado de combustible de modo lento y
cuidadoso para liberar la presión acumulada en el
depósito:
– Gire la empuñadura hacia arriba y presione la tapa
hacia abajo con firmeza (1).
– Mientras continúa aplicando presión hacia abajo de
modo continuo, gire la tapa lentamente en sentido
contrahorario a la posición de ventilación (2),
aproximadamente 1/8 de vuelta.
– Si se produce una ventilación significativa, de
inmediato vuelva a cerrar de depósito por medio de
girar la tapa en sentido horario a la posición cerrada.
Permita que la sierra se enfríe adecuadamente
antes de abrir el depósito.
– Gire la tapa a la posición abierta (3) solamente
después de que el contenido del depósito ya no se
encuentre bajo presión. En la posición abierta, la
marca de posición exterior (4) de la tapa queda
alineada con el símbolo de “desbloqueado” (5) en la
carcasa del depósito de combustible.
– Nunca quite la tapa por medio de girarla
directamente a la posición abierta, sin antes permitir
que la sierra se enfríe y luego liberando la presión
residual en la posición de ventilación (2).
– Nunca quite la tapa mientras el motor esté caliente
o en marcha.
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Instalación de la tapa de combustible sin herramientas
ADVERTENCIA
￭
1
4
1
2
￭ Si la tapa de combustible está mal apretada, la misma
puede soltarse o salirse y causar el derramamiento del
combustible. Para reducir el riesgo de derramar
combustible y provocar un incendio debido a una tapa de
combustible mal instalada, coloque la tapa en la posición
correcta y apriétela en la boca de llenado del depósito:
– Levante la empuñadura en la parte superior de la
tapa hasta dejarla vertical a un ángulo de 90°.
Inserte la tapa en la abertura del depósito de
combustible con la marca deposición exterior (1)
alineada con el símbolo de “desbloqueado” (2) del
depósito.
– Utilice la empuñadura para oprimir la tapa
firmemente hacia abajo mientras la gira en sentido
horario a la posición cerrada (aproximadamente 1/4
de vuelta). En la posición cerrada, las marcas de
posición interior (4) y exterior (1) quedan alineadas
con el símbolo de “bloqueado” (3) del depósito de
combustible.
– Doble la empuñadura dejándola a ras con la parte
superior de la tapa para apretarla.
– Si la empuñadura no queda completamente a ras
con la tapa y el tope de la empuñadura no encaja en
la hendidura correspondiente de la abertura de
llenado, o si la tapa está floja, la tapa no está
debidamente asentada ni apretada y es necesario
repetir los pasos previamente descritos. Consultar el
3
procedimiento dado a continuación para colocar la
base de la tapa en la posición inicial adecuada para
instalarla.
Tapa desalineada, dañada o rota
ADVERTENCIA
￭
A B C
1
0000-GXX-2935-A1
2
￭ Si la tapa no encaja completamente en la abertura del
depósito de combustible cuando se alinean las marcas de
posición (1, 2) y/o si la tapa no se aprieta debidamente al
girarla, la base de la tapa puede haber girado
prematuramente con relación a la parte superior. Tal
desalineación puede ser resultado de la manipulación,
limpieza o un intento incorrecto de apriete.
– Ilustraciones A y B: La base de la tapa ha girado
prematuramente a la posición cerrada y no se
encuentra en la posición inicial adecuada para hacerla
girar. El depósito no queda sellado en esta
configuración. Nota: En las ilustraciones A y B, las
marcas de posición interiores (1) están alineadas con
las marcas exteriores (2).
– Ilustración C: La parte inferior de la tapa se encuentra
en la posición correcta para instalarla. Nota: En la
ilustración C, la marca de posición interior (1) se
encuentra debajo de la empuñadura y no está alineada
con las marcas exteriores (2).
2
1
1
2
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￭
￭ Para colocar la base de la tapa en la posición inicial
adecuada para instalarla:
– Deje caer la tapa en la abertura (A) del depósito de
combustible.
– Gire la tapa en sentido contrahorario, aplicándole
una presión leve, hasta que se asiente
completamente en la abertura del depósito de
combustible (aprox. 1/4 de vuelta) (B). Esto gira la
base de la tapa a la posición inicial adecuada para
instalarla (C). La marca de posición exterior (1) de la
tapa quedará alineada con el símbolo de
“desbloqueado” en la carcasa del depósito de
combustible. La marca de posición interior (3) se
encuentra debajo de la empuñadura y no está
alineada con las marcas exteriores (1).
– Luego gire la tapa en sentido horario, cerrándola de
modo normal.
￭ Si no es posible apretar la tapa del depósito de
combustible adecuadamente, la misma podría no ser la
adecuada o está averiada. Suspenda el uso de la
máquina y llévela al concesionario autorizado de STIHL
para que la repare.
Bloqueo de vapor
ADVERTENCIA
￭ El bloqueo de vapor sucede cuando el combustible se
vaporiza en los conductos o en el carburador, lo cual
produce burbujas que obstruyen el flujo libre del
combustible líquido hacia el carburador.
￭ No es posible aliviar ni afectar el bloqueo de vapor por
medio de abrir el depósito de combustible. Si se quita la
tapa de llenado de combustible sin antes permitir que la
motosierra se enfríe de manera adecuada, se puede
causar el rocío de combustible. Siempre aténgase a las
instrucciones dadas en esta sección al quitar la tapa del
depósito de combustible.
￭ Para aliviar el bloqueo de vapor:
– Coloque la palanca de control maestro en la
posición de arranque e intente arrancar la
motosierra, @ 14.
– Si la motosierra no arranca, o si vuelve a producirse
el bloqueo de vapor, la motosierra está usándose en
condiciones demasiado extremas para el
combustible utilizado. Suspenda el uso y permita
que el motor se enfríe completamente antes de
intentar el arranque de la motosierra.
– El uso de combustible de buena calidad y fresco
(almacenado por menos de 30 días) también puede
contribuir a reducir la incidencia del bloqueo de
vapor.
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5.6 Uso de la motosierra
5.6.1 Antes de usar
ADVERTENCIA
￭ Un uso inadecuado o no autorizado puede causar
lesiones personales o daños materiales.
– Use la motosierra solo como se describe en este
manual de instrucciones.
￭ Para el armado correcto de la espada y de la cadena:
– Lea y respete las instrucciones de montaje de la
espada y de la cadena, @ 10.2.1.
￭ La cadena, la espada y el piñón deben coincidir unos con
otros en lo que respecta al calibre y al paso. Antes de
montarlos o de sustituirlos:
– Lea la información acerca de las combinaciones de
espadas y cadenas, @ 25.
– Lea y tenga en cuenta las instrucciones sobre
contragolpes y otras fuerzas reactivas, @ 6.
– Seleccione la espada más corta que cumpla con sus
necesidades de corte. Las espadas más largas
agregan peso y pueden ser más difíciles de
controlar.
￭ El tensado adecuado de la cadena es extremadamente
importante para maximizar el rendimiento de corte y para
reducir el riesgo de lesiones provocadas por una rotura o
por un descarrilamiento de la cadena, o por las fuerzas
reactivas:
– Nunca corte si la cadena está floja. Si la cadena se
afloja durante el corte, aplique el freno de la cadena
y apague el motor antes de tensarla. Nunca intente
ajustar la cadena con el motor en marcha.
– Lea y respete las instrucciones de tensado de la
cadena, @ 10.3.
– Asegúrese siempre de que la cubierta del piñón de
la cadena queda firmemente apretada después de
tensar la cadena a fin de asegurar la espada. Nunca
arranque la motosierra si la cubierta del piñón de la
cadena está suelta o falta.
– Compruebe la tensión de la cadena una vez más
después de apretar la cubierta del piñón de la
cadena.
– Después de ajustar la cadena, deje el motor en
marcha durante uno o dos minutos y luego
apáguelo, aplique el freno de la cadena y vuelva a
comprobar la tensión de la misma.
– Compruebe la tensión de la cadena periódicamente
de allí en adelante en intervalos regulares (siempre
después de aplicar el freno de la cadena y de apagar
el motor).
￭ Para reducir el riesgo de incendio y explosión:
– Revise el sistema de combustible y compruebe si
tiene fugas, prestando especial atención a las partes
visibles (p. ej., a la tapa de llenado y a las
conexiones de manguera).
– Coloque el casquillo en la bujía de modo que quede
montado de forma segura.
– No arranque el motor si el sistema de combustible
tiene fugas o si la sierra presenta cualquier otro
daño. Solicite a un concesionario autorizado de
STIHL que repare la motosierra antes de usarla.
￭ El uso de una motosierra que se ha modificado, que está
dañada, mal ajustada o no se ha mantenido debidamente
puede provocar una avería y aumentar el riesgo de
lesiones graves o incluso mortales.
– No utilice nunca una motosierra que se haya
modificado, que esté dañada o mal mantenida, o
que no se haya montado completamente y de forma
segura.
– Compruebe siempre si la motosierra está en buenas
condiciones y si funciona correctamente antes de
empezar a trabajar. Preste especial atención al
gatillo, al bloqueo del gatillo, a la palanca de control
maestro, al protector de la mano delantera, al freno
de la cadena y al accesorio de corte.
– Asegúrese de que el gatillo de aceleración y su
bloqueo se mueven libremente y de que regresan
siempre a la posición de marcha en vacío cuando
los suelta. El gatillo de aceleración no debe poder
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oprimirse hasta que se aprieta el bloqueo del gatillo.
La palanca de control maestro debe moverse
fácilmente a la posición de PARADA.
– Nunca intente modificar ni anular en modo alguno
los controles ni los dispositivos de seguridad.
– Si la sierra o cualquiera de sus piezas está dañada
o no funciona correctamente, llévelas a un
concesionario de servicio STIHL autorizado. No use
la sierra si no se ha solucionado el problema.
￭ Antes de arrancar el motor y de soltar el freno de la
cadena, dé los pasos que figuran a continuación para
reducir el riesgo de lesiones causadas por fuerzas
reactivas, por una pérdida de control o por un contacto
accidental con la cadena:
– Asegúrese de mantener la espada y la cadena
alejadas de su cuerpo y de cualquier otro obstáculo
u objeto, incluido el suelo.
– Nunca intente arrancar ni acelerar el motor mientras
la espada está dentro de una ranura de corte o
entalla. Hacerlo podría generar fuerzas reactivas y
causar lesiones.
– Lea y siga las instrucciones de encendido de la
motosierra, @ 14.
5.6.2 Arranque
ADVERTENCIA
￭ Para reducir el riesgo de quemaduras y otras lesiones
personales causadas por los escapes de vapores de gas
y humo:
– Aléjese por lo menos 3 m (10 pies) del punto de
abastecimiento de combustible antes de arrancar el
motor.
– Arranque la motosierra únicamente a la intemperie.
￭ Para reducir el riesgo de lesionarse por el contacto con la
cadena y/o por fuerzas reactivas:
– Aplique el freno de la cadena antes de arrancar la
motosierra.
￭ Para reducir el riesgo de que el operador u otras personas
sufran lesiones graves o mortales por la pérdida del
control:
– Arranque la motosierra solamente de la manera
descrita en el capítulo “Arranque” del presente
manual, @ 14.
– Nunca arranque el motor por lanzamiento de la
máquina. Arrancar por lanzamiento significa que el
operador empuja la máquina alejándola de sí, o la
deja caer hacia el suelo mientras que tira del mango
de arranque. Este método es muy peligroso, porque
usted podría perder el control de la motosierra.
– Cuando tire del mango de arranque, no enrolle la
cuerda de arranque alrededor de la mano.
– No deje que el mango de arranque retorne
bruscamente. Guíe la cuerda de arranque de modo
que se enrolle debidamente.
– Asegúrese que la espada y la cadena estén alejadas
de su persona y de las demás obstrucciones y
objetos, incluyendo el suelo. Nunca intente arrancar
la motosierra mientras la espada está dentro de una
ranura de corte o entalla.
– Siempre aplique el freno de la cadena antes de
arrancar el motor. Después de arrancar, la velocidad
del motor con el bloqueo de aceleración de arranque
activado será lo suficientemente rápida para que el
embrague engrane el piñón y, si el freno de la
cadena no está activado, hará que gire la cadena.
– Tan pronto arranque, accione inmediatamente por
un breve momento el gatillo de aceleración para
desplazar la palanca de control maestro a la
posición de marcha y permitir que el motor se
desacelere a marcha en vacío.
￭ Si se acelera el motor con el freno de la cadena aplicado
o con cadena bloqueada de alguna manera (es decir, sin
poder moverse), se aumenta la carga y se provoca el
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patinaje continuo del embrague. Esto puede ocurrir si se
acciona el acelerador por más de unos pocos segundos
con la cadena aprisionada en la ranura de corte o cuando
el freno de la cadena está aplicado. Para reducir el riesgo
de sobrecalentamiento y daños de componentes
importantes (por ejemplo, componentes de la caja
fabricados de polímero):
– Siempre desconecte el freno de la cadena antes de
acelerar el motor y antes de iniciar el trabajo de
corte. La única excepción a esta regla es cuando se
está probando el funcionamiento del freno de la
cadena.
5.6.3 Sujeción y control de la motosierra
ADVERTENCIA
￭ Para sujetar con firmeza y controlar correctamente la
motosierra:
– Mantenga los mangos limpios y secos en todo
momento. Protéjalos de la humedad, el alquitrán, el
aceite, la grasa y la resina.
￭ Para reducir el riesgo de que el operador u otras personas
sufran lesiones graves o mortales por la pérdida del
control:
– Evite tocar cualquier objeto con el
cuadrante superior de la punta de la
espada. Podría ocurrir un contragolpe.
– Siempre sujete la motosierra firmemente
con ambas manos mientras trabaje.
– Coloque la mano izquierda en el mango delantero y
la derecha sobre el mango trasero (ver la ilustración
anterior). Los zurdos también deben seguir estas
instrucciones.
– Envuelva los dedos firmemente en los mangos,
manteniéndolos sujetos entre los dedos índice y
pulgar.
– Coloque la motosierra en una posición tal que todas
las partes del cuerpo estén lejos del accesorio de
corte cuando el motor está funcionando. Párese a la
izquierda del corte durante el tronzado, fuera del
plano de corte (ver la ilustración anterior).
– Lea y aténgase a las advertencias e instrucciones
dadas en el capítulo Contragolpe y fuerzas
reactivas, @ 6.
￭ Poner la motosierra en funcionamiento con una mano es
extremadamente peligroso. La operación con una sola
mano hace que sea más difícil resistir y absorber las
fuerzas reactivas (rechazo, tirón, contragolpe) sin perder
el control de la motosierra. También dificulta la
prevención del patinaje o del rebote de la espada y la
cadena en una rama o un tronco. Para reducir el riesgo de
que el operador o los espectadores sufran lesiones
graves o mortales causadas por la pérdida de control:
– Nunca intente manejar la motosierra con
una sola mano.
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￭ Para reducir el riesgo de que el operador o los
espectadores sufran lesiones graves o mortales casadas
por la pérdida de control, mantenga siempre un punto de
apoyo seguro y el equilibro:
– Tenga sumo cuidado cuando trabaje en terreno con
mucha vegetación o húmedo, y para evitar
tropezarse o caerse, siempre esté atento a los
obstáculos ocultos, tales como tocones, raíces,
piedras, hoyos y zanjas.
– Sea sumamente precavido cuando trabaje en
declives o terreno irregular.
– Para obtener un punto de apoyo seguro, quite
siempre las ramas caídas, los matorrales y el
material cortado. Los troncos recientemente
descortezados y otros materiales pueden aumentar
el peligro de resbalarse, tropezarse o caerse.
– Proceda con mucho cuidado cuando corte
matorrales pequeños, ramas y arbolitos, ya que el
material fino puede enredarse en la cadena y ser
expulsado contra usted o hacer que pierda el
equilibrio.
￭ Para reducir el riesgo de lesionarse por la pérdida del
control:
– No trabaje sobre una escalera, sobre un
techo, en un árbol o cualquier otro punto
de apoyo que no sea seguro.
– Nunca ponga la motosierra en
funcionamiento a una altura más arriba
de los hombros.
– No trate de llegar más lejos de lo debido. Mantenga
los pies bien apoyados y equilibrados en todo
momento.
– Nunca intente arrancar ni acelerar el motor mientras
la espada está dentro de una ranura de corte o
entalla. Hacerlo podría generar fuerzas reactivas y
causar lesiones. En lugar de ello, saque la espada
del corte y vuélvala a introducir con la máquina a
velocidad máxima, procurando evitar tocar objeto
alguno con la punta de la espada.
￭ La púa de tope está diseñada para proporcionar un mayor
control de la motosierra durante el corte. Si trabaja sin la
púa de tope, la motosierra podría tirarlo bruscamente
hacia adelante. Esto podría causar la pérdida de control
o, si la punta de la espada golpea un objeto, un
contragolpe.
– Coloque la púa de tope de la sierra contra el material
que se esté cortando y úsela como punto de apoyo.
– Para mantener un mejor control de la motosierra,
siempre trabaje con la púa de tope.
￭ Aplicar presión a la motosierra al llegar al extremo del
corte puede hacer que la espada y la cadena en
movimiento salten fuera de la ranura de corte o entalla, se
pierda el control de la máquina y esta golpee al operador
o algún otro objeto. Para reducir el riesgo de lesiones:
– Tenga cuidado al acercarse al extremo de un corte.
– Nunca ejerza presión sobre la motosierra cuando
llegue al final del corte.
– STIHL recomienda que los usuarios inexpertos
trabajen bajo la supervisión de un operador con
experiencia.
5.6.4 Condiciones de trabajo
ADVERTENCIA
￭ Ponga la motosierra en funcionamiento solamente en
condiciones de buena visibilidad y a la luz del día.
– Posponga los trabajos si el tiempo está ventoso, con
neblina, lluvioso o inclemente.
– Nunca corte cerca de líneas eléctricas.
￭ La motosierra es una máquina para una sola persona.
– No deje que otras personas estén en el lugar de
trabajo.
– No se debe permitir la proximidad de otras
personas, especialmente de niños, ni de animales
en los lugares donde se esté utilizando la máquina.
– Apague el motor inmediatamente si se le aproxima
alguna persona. Aplique el freno de la cadena.
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￭ Para reducir el riesgo de lesiones a los espectadores y
usuarios no autorizados:
– No deje la motosierra desatendida con el motor en
marcha.
– Apague el motor y aplique el freno de la cadena
durante los períodos de descanso y cualquier otro
momento en que la motosierra no esté en uso.
￭ Para reducir el riesgo de incendio y explosión:
– No ponga en funcionamiento la motosierra en un
lugar donde haya gases, líquidos, vapores, polvos u
otros materiales y sustancias combustibles.
– Siempre mueva la palanca de control maestro a la
posición de parada 0 antes de tirar del mango de
arranque, si se le ha quitado el casquillo a la bujía.
– Lea y aténgase a las recomendaciones dadas por
autoridades gubernamentales para identificar y
evitar los peligros que representan gases
combustibles, líquidos, vapores, polvos y otros
materiales y sustancias combustibles.
– Nunca modifique el silenciador ni el chispero de la
motosierra.
￭ Si una cadena en movimiento chocara contra una roca u
otro objeto macizo, se podrían despedir chispas capaces
de encender materiales inflamables en determinadas
circunstancias. Entre los materiales inflamables se
incluyen la vegetación y matorrales secos, en particular
cuando el estado del tiempo es caliente y seco.
– Si existe un riesgo de incendio leve o grave, no use
la motosierra alrededor de materiales inflamables, ni
para cortar vegetación o arbustos secos.
– Comuníquese con las autoridades locales de control
de incendios o con el Servicio forestal de los
EE. UU. si tiene alguna duda en cuanto a las
condiciones de la vegetación y el estado del tiempo
para el uso de una motosierra.
￭ Tan pronto arranca, el motor genera vapores de escape
tóxicos que contienen productos químicos, tales como
hidrocarburos sin quemar (incluyendo el benceno) y
monóxido de carbono, los cuales son considerados como
causantes de enfermedades respiratorias, cáncer,
defectos de nacimiento y otros topos de toxicidad
reproductora. Algunos de estos gases (por ej., monóxido
de carbono) pueden ser incoloros e inodoros. Para reducir
el riesgo de sufrir lesiones graves o mortales causadas
por la inhalación de gases tóxicos de escape:
– Nunca use la motosierra puertas
adentro, en espacios confinados o en
lugares con ventilación deficiente.
– Si los vapores de escape llegan a
concentrarse debido a la falta de
ventilación, despeje las obstrucciones
de la zona de trabajo. Asegúrese de
tener ventilación adecuada antes de
proceder.
￭ El uso de esta motosierra y el afilado de la cadena pueden
generar polvo, vapores de aceite y otras sustancias que
contengan compuestos químicos considerados como
causantes de enfermedades respiratorias, cáncer,
defectos de nacimiento y otros tipos de toxicidad
reproductora.
– Consulte con agencias gubernamentales tales como
EPA, OSHA, CARB y NIOSH, al igual que otras
fuentes fidedignas sobre materiales peligrosos si
desconoce los riesgos asociados con las sustancias
particulares que está cortando o con las cuales está
trabajando.
￭ La inhalación de ciertos polvos, especialmente los polvos
orgánicos, tales como el moho o polen, puede provocar
reacciones alérgicas o asmáticas en las personas
sensibles. La inhalación repetida o de grandes cantidades
de polvo u otros contaminantes del aire, especialmente
los de partículas pequeñas, puede causar enfermedades
respiratorias o de otro tipo. Esto incluye el polvo,
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especialmente de las maderas duras, pero también de
algunas maderas blandas, tales como el cedro rojo
occidental.
– Controle el polvo (tal como el aserrín), los vapores
(tales como la neblina de aceite causada por la
lubricación de la cadena) en su punto de origen,
cuando sea posible.
– Trabaje siempre con una cadena correctamente
afilada, que produzca virutas de madera en vez de
polvo fino.
– En la medida de lo posible, ponga la motosierra en
funcionamiento de modo que el viento o el proceso
de operación dirijan cualquier polvo, vapor u otras
partículas generados por la motosierra en dirección
contraria al operador.
– Si no es posible mantener el polvo inhalable y otras
partículas a niveles de fondo o aproximadamente de
fondo, siempre utilice una mascarilla aprobada por
NIOSH y con capacidad adecuada para las
condiciones específicas del sitio. Siga las
recomendaciones dadas por entidades
gubernamentales (por ejemplo: OSHA/NIOSH) y
asociaciones laborales y comerciales.
￭ Si la vegetación que corta o el terreno están cubiertos por
una sustancia química, como pesticida o herbicida:
– Lea y siga las instrucciones y advertencias que
acompañan a la sustancia que cubre la vegetación o
el terreno.
￭ La aspiración del polvo de asbesto es peligrosa y puede
causar lesiones graves o mortales, enfermedades de las
vías respiratorias o cáncer, incluido el mesotelioma. El
uso y la eliminación de los productos que contienen
asbesto están estrictamente reglamentados por OSHA y
EPA.
– No utilice la motosierra para cortar ni alterar
productos de asbesto o que contengan asbesto.
– Suspenda el trabajo de inmediato y comuníquese
con las autoridades competentes estatales y locales
y/o con la EPA, con la empresa o con el
representante local de OSHA, si tiene razones para
creer que está perturbando asbesto.
￭ El contacto frecuente con aceite de desecho puede
causar cáncer de piel y su uso es dañino para el
medioambiente.
– No use aceite de desecho para lubricar la espada y
la cadena de la motosierra STIHL.
5.6.5 Instrucciones de manejo
ADVERTENCIA
￭ En caso de emergencia:
– Apague el motor de inmediato y aplique el freno de
la cadena.
￭ Para reducir el riesgo de lesiones personales causadas
por la pérdida del control y por el contacto con la cadena:
– No utilice la motosierra si la marcha en vacío está
ajustada incorrectamente. Cuando el régimen de
marcha en vacío está debidamente ajustado, la
cadena no deberá moverse cuando la sierra
funciona a marcha en vacío. Si lo hace, solicite al
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concesionario STIHL que revise la motosierra y que
efectúe los ajustes y reparaciones del caso antes de
usarla.
￭ Para reducir el riesgo de lesiones personales graves a
causa de arranques accidentales:
– No toque la cadena con la mano u otra parte del
cuerpo cuando el motor está funcionando, aunque la
cadena no esté girando.
￭ La cadena sigue girando por un período breve después
que se suelta el gatillo de aceleración. Esto se conoce
como el "efecto de volante". Para reducir el riesgo de
lesiones personales graves, evite el contacto con la
cadena.
– Espere a que la cadena se detenga y aplique el
freno de la cadena antes de trasladar la motosierra
o de colocarla en el suelo.
￭ Su motosierra está equipada con un gancho retenedor
para la cadena. Está diseñado para reducir el riesgo de
lesiones personales en el caso de que la cadena se
desprenda o corte.
– Nunca ponga la motosierra en funcionamiento con
un retenedor de la cadena dañado o faltante.
￭ El contacto con objetos extraños durante el serrado
puede hacer que la cadena se rompa o salga expulsada,
o hacer que la motosierra impulse escombros peligrosos
o se genere un contragolpe en la dirección del operador.
Para reducir el riesgo de lesiones personales graves o
fatales causadas por el contacto con objetos extraños:
– Inspeccione el árbol, el tronco o la rama antes de
cortarlos.
– Quite los objetos extraños para asegurarse de que
la madera no tenga materiales como clavos, púas,
cables o alambres.
– Antes de comenzar un corte, asegúrese de que
pueda completarse sin tocar los objetos o las
estructuras que se encuentran alrededor, como
vallas o mampostería.
￭ Revise la motosierra, la cadena y la espada frecuente y
periódicamente durante el trabajo, o inmediatamente si
hay cambios importantes en las características de corte:
– Apague el motor y aplique el freno de la cadena.
– Los elementos antivibración que presenten daños,
roturas o desgaste deberán sustituirse de inmediato.
Si usted siente una "esponjosidad" en la sierra,
aumento de la vibración o de tendencia al
"hundimiento" durante el manejo normal, puede
indicar algún daño, rotura o exceso de desgaste.
– Los elementos antivibración siempre deben
sustituirse en juegos. Ante cualquier duda acerca de
la sustitución de los elementos antivibración,
consulte a su concesionario de servicio STIHL.
– Compruebe el estado y la tensión de la cadena.
Revise si la cadena o la espada están dañadas.
– Si no es posible tensar la cadena correctamente, o
si la sierra tiene componentes desgastados o
dañados, suspenda el trabajo de inmediato y lleve la
sierra a un concesionario autorizado de STIHL para
que efectúe la inspección, reparación o
mantenimiento.
￭ El silenciador y otros componentes del motor (por ej.,
aletas del cilindro, bujía) se calientan durante el
funcionamiento y permanecen calientes por un buen rato
después de apagar el motor. Para reducir el riesgo de
lesiones por quemadura:
– Permita que el motor se enfríe antes de
inspeccionar, transportar o guardar la motosierra.
Evite tocar el silenciador cuando está caliente luego
del funcionamiento.
– Mantenga limpia la zona alrededor del silenciador.
Quite el lubricante excesivo y toda la basura tal
como las agujas de pinos, ramas u hojas.
– Permita que la motosierra se enfríe apoyada sobre
una superficie de hormigón, metal, suelo raso o
madera maciza (por ej., el tronco de un árbol caído)
lejos de cualquier sustancia combustible.
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– No continúe trabajando con una caja de cilindro
dañada o mal instalada, o una envuelta del
silenciador dañada o deformada. Esto puede
interferir con el proceso de enfriamiento del
silenciador.
￭ El silenciador de la motosierra tiene un sistema de
chispero. Si la mezcla de gasolina y aceite está correcta
(no es demasiado rica), en condiciones normales el
chispero quedará limpio como resultado del calor del
silenciador y no necesitará servicio ni mantenimiento.
Para reducir el riesgo de incendios causados por el
lanzamiento de partículas calientes:
– Nunca haga funcionar la motosierra si el chispero
hace falta o presenta daños.
– Si el desempeño de la máquina comienza a
disminuir y sospecha que las rejillas están
obstruidas, solicite la reparación del silenciador.
Para ciertas aplicaciones, las leyes o los
reglamentos estatales o federales pueden exigir el
uso de un chispero en buenas condiciones.
￭ En California, constituiría una violación de los acápites
§ 4442 o § 4443 del Código de Recursos Públicos el uso
de herramientas con motor de gasolina en tierras
cubiertas por bosques, arbustos o pastos, a menos que el
sistema de escape del motor cuente con un chispero que
satisfaga los requisitos legales y reciba un mantenimiento
adecuado para estar en buenas condiciones de
funcionamiento. El propietario/operador de este producto
es responsable del mantenimiento adecuado del
parachispas. Otras entidades/agencias estatales o
gubernamentales, tales como el Servicio Forestal de los
EE.UU., pueden tener requisitos similares.
– No utilice la motosierra alrededor de materiales
inflamables ni de vegetación o arbustos, donde
exista riesgo de incendio leve o grave.
– Comuníquese con las autoridades de su localidad o
con el servicio forestal para informarse en cuanto a
las leyes y reglamentos relacionados con los
requisitos de protección contra incendios.
PELIGRO
￭ Para reducir el riesgo de electrocución:
– Nunca utilice esta motosierra cerca de
alambres o cables que puedan tener
corriente eléctrica.
– Nunca corte cerca de líneas eléctricas.
– No confíe en el aislamiento de la
motosierra contra descargas eléctricas.
6 Contragolpe y otras fuerzas reactivas
6.1 Fuerzas reactivas
ADVERTENCIA
￭ Las fuerzas reactivas pueden ocurrir en cualquier
momento mientras la cadena está girando. Las fuerzas
reactivas pueden causar lesiones personales graves o la
muerte.
￭ Las grandes fuerzas utilizadas para cortar madera
pueden cambiar de sentido y actuar contra el operador. Si
la cadena de aserrado en movimiento reduce su velocidad
o se detiene repentinamente al tocar un objeto sólido,
como un tronco o rama, o bien queda aprisionada, las
fuerzas reactivas podrían generarse de inmediato.
￭ Esas fuerzas reactivas pueden causar la pérdida del
control, lo que a su vez puede causar lesiones graves o
mortales.
– Una buena comprensión de las causas de estas
fuerzas reactivas puede ayudarle a evitar el
elemento de sorpresa y la pérdida del control. Las
sorpresas repentinas contribuyen a los accidentes.
Las fuerzas reactivas más comunes son:
– Contragolpe
– Tirones
– Rechazo
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6.2 Contragolpe
6.2.1 Contragolpe
ADVERTENCIA
El contragolpe puede ocurrir cuando la cadena
en movimiento cerca del cuadrante superior de
la punta de la espada toca un objeto sólido o
queda aprisionada.
￭ Cuando esto sucede, la energía que impulsa a la cadena
puede crear una fuerza que mueve a la motosierra en
sentido opuesto al movimiento de la cadena, en el punto
en el cual ésta reduce su velocidad o se detiene. Esto
puede lanzar la espada hacia arriba y hacia atrás de
manera instantánea, mayormente en el mismo plano de la
espada, posiblemente causando lesiones graves o
mortales al operador.
￭ Puede ocurrir un contragolpe, por ejemplo, cuando la
cadena cerca del cuadrante superior de la punta de la
espada choca contra la madera o queda aprisionada al
cortar una rama, o si se la usa incorrectamente al
comenzar a penetrar o avanzar en el corte.
￭ Cuanto mayor la fuerza de la reacción de rebote, tanto
más difícil para el operador controlar la motosierra. Son
muchos los factores que afectan la producción de
contragolpes, así como su intensidad. Estos incluyen la
velocidad de la cadena, la velocidad a la que la espada y
la cadena tocan el objeto, el ángulo de contacto, el estado
de la cadena y con qué velocidad la cadena se ralentiza o
detiene, entre otros factores.
– El tipo de espada y de cadena es un factor
importante en la ocurrencia y la fuerza del
contragolpe. Algunos tipos de cadenas y espadas
de STIHL están diseñados para reducir las fuerzas
de contragolpe.
– STIHL recomienda el uso de espadas de
contragolpe reducido y cadenas de bajo
contragolpe.
6.2.2 Normas para el contragolpe de las motosierras
Se aplican la normas siguientes con respecto al
contragolpe:
– § 5.11 de ANSI/OPEI B175.1
Estas normas, denominadas en lo sucesivo “normas sobre
contragolpe de las motosierras” en este capítulo, establecen
determinados criterios de desempeño y diseño relacionados
con el contragolpe de la motosierra.
Para cumplir con la norma aplicada al contragolpe de las
motosierras:
a)Las sierras con una cilindrada menor que 62 cm³ (3,8
pulg³)
– deberán, en su condición original, cumplir con un
ángulo de contragolpe derivado por computadora de
45° cuando se utilizan determinados accesorios de
corte; y
– deberán estar provistas con no menos de dos
dispositivos que reduzcan el riesgo de lesionarse por
contragolpes, tales como un freno de cadena, una
cadena con contragolpe bajo, una espada de
contragolpe reducido, etc.
b)Las sierras con una cilindrada de 62 cm³ (3,8 pulg³) o más
– deben tener por lo menos un dispositivo para reducir el
riesgo de lesiones por contragolpe, tal como un freno de
la cadena, cadena de bajo contragolpe, espada de
contragolpe reducido, etc.
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Los ángulos calculados por computadora para las
motosierras que poseen una cilindrada inferior a 62 cm³
(3,8 pulg³) se miden mediante la aplicación de un programa
informático para evaluar los resultados de una máquina
experimental de contragolpes.
ADVERTENCIA
￭ El cumplimiento de las normas de contragolpe de la
motosierra no implica que la espada y la cadena de
aserrado rotarán a un máximo de 45º en un contragolpe
real.
￭ Los ángulos calculados por computadora indicados en las
normas de la motosierra pueden no tener ninguna
relación con los ángulos reales de rotación de contragolpe
de la espada que pueden ocurrir en una situación real de
corte.
￭ Los dispositivos diseñados para reducir el riesgo de
lesiones causadas por contragolpes pueden perder algo
de su eficiencia cuando no están en sus condiciones
originales, especialmente si no se han mantenido
correctamente.
– Lea y siga las precauciones e instrucciones de
seguridad en este manual.
– Al trabajar, siempre coloque la motosierra de modo
que el cuerpo esté alejado del accesorio de corte y
fuera del plano de corte.
– Siga las instrucciones de mantenimiento y servicio
en este manual.
￭ Para que la motosierra cumpla con las normas de
contragolpe de la motosierra, use solo los siguientes
accesorios de corte:
– Combinaciones de espada y cadena compatibles
enumeradas en “Combinaciones de espadas y
cadenas de aserrado”, @ 25;
– Otras combinaciones diferentes de espadas y
cadenas de repuesto designadas como en
cumplimiento con la norma para uso con la
motosierra, o
– Una cadena de repuesto designada como “cadena
de aserrado de bajo contragolpe”.
6.2.3 Dispositivos para reducir el riesgo de lesiones por
contragolpe
El freno rápido de la cadena Quickstop de STIHL y las
espadas de contragolpe reducido y las cadenas de bajo
contragolpe identificadas con la etiqueta verde de STIHL
han sido diseñados para reducir el riesgo de lesiones
causadas por contragolpe.
1. Freno rápido de la cadena Quickstop de STIHL
En una máquina debidamente mantenida, hay dos
mecanismos que activan el freno de la cadena:
– Activación manual: Si se produce un contragolpe, la
motosierra se moverá hacia arriba en dirección al
operador, en un movimiento de rotación alrededor del
mango delantero. El freno se aplica cuando la mano
izquierda toca el protector delantero, que es la palanca de
activación del freno, y lo empuja hacia delante.
– Activación por inercia: Todas las motosierras de STIHL
están equipadas con un freno de cadena Quickstop de
activación por inercia. Un impulso de contragolpe lo
suficientemente fuerte bastará para aplicar el freno,
incluso sin tocar el protector delantero de la mano.
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ADVERTENCIA
￭ Para reducir el riesgo de lesiones por contragolpe:
– Nunca use una motosierra si el freno de la cadena
no funciona correctamente.
– Si tiene alguna duda, lleve la sierra a un
concesionario de servicio STIHL autorizado para la
inspección o la reparación.
– No use la sierra hasta que el problema se haya
corregido.
￭ En una situación de contragolpe, el protector delantero de
la mano ayuda a proteger la mano izquierda del contacto
con la cadena. Al quitar el protector delantero de la mano
de la motosierra equipada con un freno de cadena
Quickstop, se reducirá la protección y se soltará el freno
de cadena, lo que aumenta el riesgo de lesiones por
contragolpe.
– Nunca use la sierra si el protector delantero de la
mano no funciona correctamente. Si el protector
delantero de la mano hace falta, quedarán
inoperantes la activación manual y la activación por
inercia del freno de la cadena.
– Nunca intente quitar, modificar o desactivar el
protector delantero de la mano o cualquier otro
componente del freno de la cadena.
￭
situaciones de contragolpe. Para reducir el riesgo de
lesiones personales graves o la muerte a causa de un
contragolpe:
– Siempre siga las instrucciones de este manual y la
técnica de buen trabajo. Por ejemplo, posiciónese
lejos del accesorio de corte cuando el motor esté en
marcha. Párese a la izquierda del corte durante el
tronzado, fuera del plano de corte; consulte el
capítulo “Sujeción y control de la motosierra”,
@ 5.6.3.
– Mantenga la máxima distancia posible, nunca
menos de 45 grados, entre la espada y su cuerpo
para asegurarse de que el freno Quickstop tenga
tiempo suficiente para activar y detener la cadena
antes de entrar en contacto con cualquier parte de
su cuerpo.
– Siga las otras advertencias que se proporcionan en
el capítulo @ 7.
￭ Un freno de la cadena mal cuidado puede aumentar el
tiempo necesario para detener la cadena después de la
activación, o simplemente puede no activarse. Para que
el freno Quickstop de la cadena reduzca el riesgo de
lesiones por contragolpe, debe estar bien mantenido y en
buenas condiciones de funcionamiento.
– Lea y siga las instrucciones acerca de cómo
accionar y soltar el freno de la cadena, @ 12, y las
instrucciones de mantenimiento y reparación,
@ 12.3.
￭ Ni el freno de la cadena Quickstop ni ningún otro
dispositivo de freno de la cadena impide el contragolpe.
Estos dispositivos están diseñados para reducir el riesgo
de lesiones por contragolpe, si se activan, en ciertas
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2. Cadena de aserrado de bajo contragolpe y espadas de
contragolpe reducido
STIHL ofrece una variedad de espadas y cadenas de
aserrado. Las espadas de contragolpe reducido y las
cadenas de bajo contragolpe de STIHL están diseñadas
para reducir el riesgo de lesiones causadas por contragolpe.
Otras cadenas están diseñadas para lograr un alto
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rendimiento de corte y facilitar el afilado, pero son más
propensas a contragolpes y pueden generar contragolpes
con más energía, lo que dificulta el control de la motosierra.
STIHL desarrolló un sistema de codificación por color para
ayudar a identificar las espadas de contragolpe reducido y
las cadenas de bajo contragolpe.
– Los accesorios de corte con etiquetas verdes en el
empaquetado están diseñados para reducir el riesgo de
lesiones por contragolpe.
– Al combinar motosierras dotadas de etiquetas verdes con
espadas y cadenas con etiquetas verdes, se cumple con
el requerimiento de ángulo de contragolpe calculado que
se estipula en las normas que rigen a las motosierras,
cuando los productos se encuentran en su condición
original.
– Los productos con etiquetas amarillas son para los
usuarios que tienen necesidades de corte extraordinarias,
y que poseen experiencia y capacitación especializada
para hacer frente a los contragolpes.
STIHL recomienda el uso de sus espadas de contragolpe
reducido identificadas con la etiqueta verde, cadenas de
bajo contragolpe con etiqueta verde y un freno rápido de
cadena Quickstop STIHL, tanto para los usuarios con
experiencia como para aquéllos que carezcan de ella.
STIHL recomienda espadas y cadenas con etiqueta verde
para todas las motosierras. Para ver detalles, lea el folleto
"Información sobre espadas y cadenas de STIHL".
Es posible que, después de la publicación de esta
información, se desarrollen nuevas combinaciones de
espadas y cadenas que también cumplan con las normas al
ser utilizadas con ciertas motosierras.
las fuerzas de contragolpe y la predisposición a
contragolpes, y aumentar el riesgo de lesiones
consiguientes.
– Solicite a su concesionario STIHL autorizado que le
proporcione la combinación apropiada de espada y
cadena para su motosierra, con el fin de reducir el
riesgo de lesiones por contragolpe.
￭ Las espadas de contragolpe reducido y las cadenas de
bajo contragolpe no impiden el contragolpe, sino están
diseñadas para reducir el riesgo de lesiones por
contragolpe.
– STIHL recomienda espadas y cadenas con etiqueta
verde para todas las motosierras y todos los
usuarios.
￭ Aunque su sierra esté equipada con un freno de cadena
QuickStop, una espada de contragolpe reducido y/o una
cadena de bajo contragolpe, eso no elimina el riesgo de
lesionarse por contragolpe.
– Respete todas las advertencias de seguridad que se
mencionan en este manual para evitar situaciones
de contragolpe.
a. Cadena de aserrado de bajo contragolpe
Algunos tipos de cadenas tienen componentes
especialmente diseñados para reducir la predisposición a
contragolpe y la fuerza del contragolpe, si ocurre. STIHL ha
desarrollado una cadena de bajo contragolpe para su
motosierra.
Una “cadena de aserrado de bajo contragolpe” es aquella
que satisface los requisitos de rendimiento de la norma
ANSI/OPEI B175.1 al ser sometida a prueba según las
disposiciones de esa norma.
ADVERTENCIA
￭ El uso de las combinaciones de espadas y cadenas no
mencionadas en el folleto “Información sobre espadas y
cadenas de STIHL” (u otras combinaciones que no
cumplen con las normas de motosierras) puede aumentar
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ADVERTENCIA
￭ Algunas cadenas de bajo contragolpe no han sido
probadas con todas las combinaciones de motosierra y
espada. Existen posibles combinaciones de motosierra,
espada y cadena de bajo contragolpe, que no han sido
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específicamente certificadas como satisfactorias con
respecto al ángulo de contragolpe de 45° calculado por
computadora que estipula la norma sobre motosierras.
– STIHL recomienda espadas y cadenas con etiqueta
verde para todas las motosierras y todos los
usuarios.
– Consulte el folleto “Información sobre espadas y
cadenas de STIHL” para conocer las combinaciones
de espadas y cadenas adecuadas para su sierra.
– Solicite a su concesionario STIHL autorizado que le
proporcione la combinación apropiada de espada y
cadena para su motosierra, con el fin de reducir el
riesgo de lesiones por contragolpe.
￭ Una cadena desafilada o mal afilada puede reducir o
inutilizar los efectos de las características de diseño
destinadas a reducir la energía de los contragolpes y la
tendencia a los mismos. Una reducción o afilado
incorrectos de los calibradores de profundidad o la
alteración de la forma de las cuchillas puede aumentar el
riesgo y la energía de contragolpes.
– Siempre corte con una cadena bien afilada.
– Lea y siga las instrucciones acerca de cómo afilar la
cadena, @ 22.5.
￭ Toda motosierra equipada con una guía en forma de arco
es potencialmente una herramienta muy peligrosa. El
riesgo de contragolpe aumenta con una guía en forma de
arco debido al aumento del área de contacto del
contragolpe y a que el diseño de las guías coloca la parte
superior de la espada más cerca del cuerpo del operador.
Cuando se usa una guía en forma de arco, la cadena de
bajo contragolpe no reducirá significativamente el riesgo
de lesiones por contragolpe.
– Nunca instale una guía en forma de arco en ninguna
de las motosierras de STIHL.
b. Espadas de contragolpe reducido
Las espadas de contragolpe reducido STIHL con etiqueta
verde están diseñadas para reducir el riesgo de lesiones por
contragolpe cuando se usan con las cadenas de bajo
contragolpe STIHL con etiqueta verde.
ADVERTENCIA
￭ Cuando se usan con otras cadenas de aserrado más
agresivas, estas espadas pueden ser menos eficaces
para reducir el contragolpe.
– STIHL recomienda espadas y cadenas con etiqueta
verde para todas las motosierras y todos los
usuarios.
￭ Para lograr un equilibrio adecuado y cumplir con las
normas de motosierras:
– Use solo las longitudes de espada que se
mencionan en este manual, @ 25.
6.2.4 Para evitar el contragolpe
La mejor protección contra lesiones personales como
resultado de un contragolpe es evitar las situaciones de
contragolpe:
1)Sostenga la motosierra firmemente y con ambas manos,
y mantenga un agarre seguro con la mano derecha en el
mango trasero y la mano izquierda en el mango delantero.
Agarre firmemente, envolviendo con los pulgares y los
otros dedos los mangos de la motosierra. No la suelte.
2)Cerciórese de que la zona donde está cortando no tenga
ningún obstáculo.
3)Sea consciente de la ubicación de la punta de la espada
en todo momento. Nunca deje que la punta de la espada
haga contacto accidentalmente con ningún objeto. No
corte ramas con la punta de la espada. Preste especial
atención al trabajar cerca de vallas de alambre y al cortar
ramas pequeñas y duras, matorrales pequeños y arbolitos
que puedan quedar enredados fácilmente en la cadena de
aserrado.
4)No trate de llegar más lejos de lo debido.
5)No corte a una altura superior a la de los hombros.
6)Empiece a cortar y continúe trabajando a máxima
aceleración.
7)Corte solamente un tronco a la vez.
8)Tenga sumo cuidado cuando vuelva a entrar a un corte
previamente iniciado.
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9)No intente cortar por penetración de la sierra si no tiene
experiencia en ese tipo de corte.
10)Esté atento al desplazamiento del tronco o a la
intervención de otras fuerzas que puedan causar el cierre
del corte y el aprisionamiento de la cadena de aserrado.
11)Cuide bien la cadena de aserrado. Siempre corte con
una cadena de aserrado bien afilada y correctamente
tensada.
12)Sitúese a un lado de la trayectoria de corte de la
motosierra.
13)Use únicamente las espadas y cadenas de repuesto
especificadas por STIHL, o unas equivalentes.
6.3 Tirones
￭ El tirón frecuentemente ocurre cuando la púa de tope de
la sierra no está firmemente sujeta contra el árbol o rama,
y cuando la cadena no está girando a velocidad máxima
antes de hacer contacto con la madera.
￭ Para reducir el riesgo de tirón:
– Corte con una cadena afilada y con la tensión
adecuada.
– Siempre empiece el corte con la cadena girando a
velocidad máxima y con la púa de tope en contacto
con la madera.
– Use cuñas para abrir la entalla o el corte, donde sea
posible.
– Tenga sumo cuidado al cortar arbolitos y matorrales
pequeños que puedan enredarse fácilmente en la
cadena, rebotar contra usted o hacerle perder el
equilibrio.
6.4 Rechazo
ADVERTENCIA
￭ El tirón se produce cuando la cadena en la parte inferior
de la espada se detiene repentinamente o reduce la
velocidad significativamente por estar aprisionada,
quedar atrapada o entrar en contacto con algún objeto
extraño en la madera. La reacción de la cadena tira de la
motosierra hacia delante y puede hacer que el operador
pierda el control, lo cual, a su vez, podría ocasionar
lesiones graves o mortales. Si la punta entra en contacto
con un objeto, puede producirse un contragolpe.
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ADVERTENCIA
￭ El rechazo se produce cuando la cadena en la parte
superior de la espada se detiene de repente o reduce la
velocidad significativamente por estar aprisionada,
quedar atrapada o entrar en contacto con algún objeto
extraño en la madera. La reacción de la cadena puede
hacer que la motosierra se mueva rápidamente hacia
atrás en dirección al operador, y podría causar la pérdida
del control, lo cual, a su vez, podría ocasionar lesiones
graves o mortales.
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￭ El rechazo frecuentemente ocurre cuando se utiliza la
parte superior de la espada para hacer los cortes.
￭ Para reducir el riesgo de rechazo:
– Esté atento a las fuerzas o situaciones que puedan
permitir que el material se atasque o aprisione en la
parte superior de la cadena.
– No corte más de un tronco a la vez.
– No tuerza la motosierra cuando retire la espada de
un corte por debajo, porque la cadena puede quedar
aprisionada o atascarse.
– Corte con una cadena afilada y con la tensión
adecuada.
7 Técnicas adecuadas para el tronzado,
el desramado, la poda y la tala básicos
7.1 Tronzado
El tronzado consiste en cortar un tronco en secciones.
ADVERTENCIA
￭ Tenga cuidado con los troncos que giran. Estos pueden
causar lesiones personales graves o la muerte. Para
prevenir que un tronco gire durante el tronzado:
– Controle que el tronco esté seguro y no gire cuesta
abajo antes de comenzar el corte. De ser necesario,
use cuñas, piñones o calzas resistentes.
– Si se encuentra en una ladera, sitúese siempre
cuesta arriba del tronco.
– Nunca se pare sobre el tronco.
￭ Para reducir el riesgo de contragolpes causados por el
contacto con la punta de la espada y otros troncos o
ramas:
– Corte solamente un tronco a la vez.
– No corte los troncos en una pila.
￭ Al cortar madera rota, las astillas afiladas pueden
atraparse y salir lanzadas hacia el operador o los
espectadores.
– Tenga cuidado al cortar madera rota y use siempre
equipos protectores personales y trajes de
protección adecuados, incluidas gafas.
– Mantenga a los espectadores fuera de la zona de
trabajo.
￭ Al cortar troncos más pequeños, asegúrese de que el
tronco esté apoyado correctamente para reducir el riesgo
de lesiones personales a causa de la pérdida de control
de la motosierra o del movimiento del tronco. Los troncos
pequeños pueden moverse al entrar en contacto con los
dientes de la cadena:
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– Coloque los troncos en soportes con forma de V, en
la parte superior del caballete, cuando sea posible.
– No permita que otra persona sujete el tronco.
– No estabilice nunca el tronco con las piernas o pies.
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￭ No controlar la sierra en la parte inferior del corte de
tronzado puede causar lesiones personales graves o la
muerte.
– Prepare la sierra para que salga de la parte inferior
del corte al reducir la fuerza de alimentación que
ejerce sobre esta.
– Mitigue el peso de la motosierra de modo que la
espada y la cadena no salgan expulsadas hacia la
parte inferior de su cuerpo y sus piernas.
Durante el tronzado:
► Coloque la púa de tope de la sierra contra el tronco y
úsela como punto de apoyo.
► Vuelva a colocar continuamente la púa de tope mientras
empuja la espada por completo hacia el tronco.
ADVERTENCIA
￭ Hay un mayor riesgo asociado con el aprisionamiento de
la motosierra durante el tronzado bajo tensión. La tensión
en la madera también puede liberarse repentinamente y
con gran fuerza, e impulsar el tronco, la rama o la
motosierra hacia el operador y causarle lesiones o
pérdida de control.
￭ Para reducir el riesgo de lesiones personales graves o
fatales a causa de las fuerzas reactivas, incluido el
contragolpe, o una pérdida de control al cortar madera
bajo tensión:
– Comience siempre con un recorte (1) en el lado de
compresión del tronco y realice un corte de tronzado
(2) en el lado de la tensión.
– Si la espada o la cadena quedan aprisionadas,
apague el motor y aplique el freno de la cadena
antes de sacar la sierra del tronco, con cuidado de
que la rama no se quiebre o suelte de repente.
￭ Trabajar en áreas en las que los troncos, ramas y raíces
están enredados es extremadamente peligroso.
– Arrastre los troncos, las ramas y otros materiales
para cortar a un área libre antes de comenzar a
trabajar. Retire de la zona primero los troncos
aislados y despejados. No corte donde la punta de
la espada pueda entrar en contacto con otros
troncos, ramas u hojarasca.
7.2 Corte de troncos bajo tensión
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7.3 Desrame
El desrame consiste en cortar las ramas de un árbol caído.
ADVERTENCIA
￭ Para prevenir que un tronco gire durante el desramado:
– Comience el desramado dejando las ramas en la
parte inferior y en declive del tronco para mantenerlo
por encima del suelo.
– Estabilice el tronco con piñones, cuñas o calzas
resistentes, de ser necesario.
– Nunca se pare en un tronco durante el desramado.
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￭ Hay un mayor riesgo de contragolpe durante las
operaciones de desramado, ya que las ramas, las hojas,
los tallos y otros materiales se pueden enredar en las
cuchillas en el cuadrante superior de la punta de la
espada y hacer que la cadena reduzca la velocidad o se
detenga de repente.
– No use la punta de la espada para cortar ramas.
– Sea precavido y evite tocar el tronco, el suelo, las
ramas u hojarasca con la punta de la espada.
￭ Cuando corte de abajo hacia arriba las ramas que están
en el aire, la sierra puede quedar aprisionada o la rama
puede caerse, golpear al operador o a la motosierra y
causar la pérdida del control.
– Si la espada o la cadena quedan aprisionadas,
apague el motor y aplique el freno de la cadena
antes de sacar la sierra del corte, con cuidado de
que la rama no se quiebre o suelte de repente.
￭ Las ramas o los troncos bajo tensión (pértigas de salto)
pueden rebotar hacia usted con gran fuerza y golpearlo o
hacerlo perder el control de la sierra, lo que podría causar
lesiones graves o fatales.
– Sea precavido cuando corte ramas o troncos que
están bajo tensión.
– Lea y siga las advertencias e instrucciones acerca
de cómo cortar troncos bajo tensión, @ 7.2.
Durante el desramado:
► Párese en el lado del tronco opuesto a la rama que se
debe cortar si es seguro.
► Empuje la espada a toda velocidad con un movimiento en
eje hacia la rama.
► Corte la rama con el lado superior o inferior de la espada,
apartando la punta de la espada del tronco, el suelo, las
ramas u hojarasca.
7.4 Poda
La poda consiste en quitar de manera selectiva las ramas de
un árbol en pie.
ADVERTENCIA
￭ Para reducir el riesgo de lesionarse por la pérdida del
control:
– No use la motosierra con una sola mano.
– No trabaje sobre una escalera, sobre un techo, en
un árbol o cualquier otro punto de apoyo que no sea
seguro.
– Nunca use la motosierra a una altura más arriba de
los hombros o por encima suyo.
– No trate de llegar más lejos de lo debido.
– Si no le es posible seguir estas instrucciones,
deberá utilizar una herramienta diferente, tal como
un podador de varilla, o solicitar a una empresa
arbolista calificada que lleve a cabo el trabajo.
￭ Para reducir el riesgo de lesiones:
– Nunca se pare directamente debajo de la rama que
está cortando.
– Esté atento a la caída de las ramas. Tan pronto
como la rama empieza a caer, apártese y guarde
una distancia adecuada. Una rama puede rebotar
hacia usted después de haber caído al suelo.
– Antes de comenzar a trabajar, quite las ramas y los
arbustos del área para reducir el riesgo de
tropezarse y perder el control de la motosierra.
► Apoye la motosierra sobre el tronco.
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Para cortar las ramas de un árbol en pie:
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7 Técnicas adecuadas para el tronzado, el desramado, la poda y la tala básicos
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► Realice el primer corte (1) en la parte inferior de la rama,
aproximadamente a 2 pulg (5 cm) del tronco. Corte
aproximadamente 1/4 del diámetro de la rama. Esto
evitará que la rama se astille después del corte.
► Realice el segundo corte (2) en la parte superior de la
rama, aproximadamente a 2 pulg (5 cm) del primer corte.
► No bien la rama comienza a caer, retire la motosierra y
deje que la rama caiga al suelo.
7.5 Tala
7.5.1 Condiciones de tala
La tala consiste en cortar un árbol hasta que caiga. Antes de
talar un árbol, estudie cuidadosamente todas las
condiciones que pueden afectar la dirección de la caída.
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￭ Antes de iniciar la tala, asegúrese de que la sierra que
utiliza tenga el tamaño, la potencia y combustible
suficientes para completar la operación de manera
eficiente.
￭ Existen varios factores que pueden afectar y cambiar el
sentido previsto de caída, por ej., el sentido y la velocidad
del viento, la inclinación natural del árbol, los árboles y
obstáculos adyacentes, el terreno en declive, la
estructura de ramas de un solo lado, la estructura del
follaje, la estructura de la madera, la pudrición, el peso de
la nieve, etc.
– Para reducir el riesgo de sufrir lesiones graves o
mortales, tanto para usted como para los demás,
analice y planifique estas condiciones antes de
comenzar el trabajo y manténgase alerta a cualquier
cambio en el sentido durante la caída del árbol.
￭ Para talar un árbol cuyo diámetro es mayor que el doble
del largo de corte de la espada, es necesario emplear el
método de corte de tala por secciones o de corte por
0000-GXX-1627-A0
penetración. Estos métodos pueden ser extremadamente
peligrosos porque implican el uso de la punta de la
espada y pueden causar contragolpe. Estas técnicas
deben ser empleadas únicamente por profesionales
competentes. Si no tiene experiencia en el manejo de una
motosierra, no intente hacer el corte por penetración. Pida
la ayuda de un profesional calificado.
￭ Antes de iniciar la tala, asegúrese de que la sierra que
utiliza tenga el tamaño, la potencia y combustible
suficientes para completar la operación de tala. Nunca
intente cortar un árbol de diámetro grande con una
motosierra que no tenga el tamaño, la potencia o el
tiempo de operación suficientes para completar la tarea
de manera eficiente.
￭ Los árboles que se parten o pudren por dentro, o que se
están inclinando o están bajo tensión, son más propensos
a derrumbarse o partirse mientras se cortan, lo que puede
causar lesiones graves o fatales al operador o los
espectadores.
– Siempre observe la condición general del árbol y
tenga precaución.
– Los usuarios sin experiencia nunca deben intentar
cortar estos árboles.
– Siempre tenga en cuenta las ramas quebradas o
muertas que puedan soltarse con la vibración y caer
encima del operador durante la tala. Algunos tipos
de árboles son más susceptibles a esta condición,
como los abetos Douglas. Debe consultar a un
servicio de árboles reconocido si tiene preguntas
acerca de la estabilidad de los árboles que cortará.
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