Guide to Using this Manual2
Safety Precautions and Working
Techniques2
Cutting Attachment14
Mounting the Bar and Chain14
Tensioning the Chain15
Checking Chain Tension16
Fuel16
Original Instruction ManualPrinted on chlorine-free paper
Fueling17
Chain Lubricant19
Filling Chain Oil Tank19
Checking Chain Lubrication20
Chain Brake20
Winter Operation21
Starting / Stopping the Engine22
Operating Instructions25
Oil Quantity Control26
Taking Care of the Guide Bar27
Air Filter System27
Remove air filter28
Cleaning the Air Filter28
Engine Management29
Printing inks contain vegetable oils, paper can be recycled.
Adjusting the Carburetor30
Spark Arresting Screen in Muffler31
Spark Plug31
Replacing the Starter Rope and
Rewind Spring32
Storing the Machine34
Checking and Replacing the Chain
Sprocket35
Maintaining and Sharpening the
Saw Chain36
Maintenance and Care39
Main Parts41
Specifications43
Special Accessories44
Ordering Spare Parts44
Maintenance and Repairs44
Important Safety Instructions45
Key to Symbols46
STIHL Limited Emission Control
Warranty Statement46
CSA Standard48
Dear Customer,
Thank you for choosing a quality
engineered STIHL product.
This machine has been built using
modern production techniques and
comprehensive quality assurance.
Every effort has been made to ensure
your satisfaction and troublefree use
of the machine.
Please contact your dealer or our
sales company if you have any
queries concerning your machine.
Pictograms that appear on the machine
are explained in this Instruction Manual.
Depending on the machine and
equipment version, the following
pictograms may appear on the machine.
Fuel tank; fuel mixture of
gasoline and engine oil
Tank for chain oil; chain
oil
Engage and release
chain brake
Coasting brake
Direction of chain travel
Ematic; chain oil flow
adjustment
Tension saw chain
Intake air baffle: winter
operation
Intake air baffle: summer
operation
Handle heating
Actuate decompression
valve
Actuate manual fuel
pump
Symbols in text
Warning where there is a risk of
an accident or personal injury or
serious damage to property.
Caution where there is a risk of
damaging the machine or its
individual components.
Engineering improvements
STIHL's philosophy is to continually
improve all of its products. For this
reason we may modify the design,
engineering and appearance of our
products periodically.
Therefore, some changes, modifications
and improvements may not be covered
in this manual.
Safety Precautions and
Working Techniques
Because a chain saw is a
high-speed wood-cutting
tool with very sharp cutters, some special safety
precautions must be
observed in addition to
those that generally apply
when working with an axe
or hand saw.
It is important you read
and understand the
instruction manual before
using your power tool for
the first time and keep
the manual in a safe
place for future reference. Non-observance of
the safety precautions
may result in serious or
even fatal injury.
Observe all applicable local safety
regulations, standards and ordinances.
If you have not used this type of power
tool before: Have your dealer or other
experienced user show you how to
operate your power tool or attend a
special course in its operation.
Minors should never be allowed to use a
power tool.
Keep bystanders, especially children,
and animals away from the work area.
When the power tool is not in use, shut it
off so that it does not endanger others.
Secure it against unauthorized use.
The user is responsible for avoiding
injury to third parties or damage to their
property.
2
MS 880
English
Do not lend or rent your power tool
without the instruction manual. Be sure
that anyone using it understands the
information contained in this manual.
The use of noise emitting power tools
may be restricted to certain times by
national or local regulations.
To operate the power tool you must be
rested, in good physical condition and
mental health. If you have any condition
that might be aggravated by strenuous
work, check with your doctor before
operating a power tool.
Persons with pacemakers only: The
ignition system of your power tool
produces an electromagnetic field of a
very low intensity. This field may
interfere with some pacemakers. To
reduce health risks, STIHL recommends
that persons with pacemakers consult
their physician and the pacemaker
manufacturer before operating this tool.
Do not operate the power tool if you are
under the influence of any substance
(drugs, alcohol) which might impair
vision, dexterity or judgment.
To reduce the risk of accidents or
injury, put off the work in poor weather
conditions (rain, snow, ice, wind).
Use your saw for cutting wood or
wooden objects only.
Do not use your power tool for any other
purpose since this may result in accidents.
Only use tools, guide bars, chains, chain
sprockets and accessories that are
explicitly approved for this power tool
model by STIHL or are technically
identical. If you have any questions in
this respect, consult a servicing dealer.
Use only high quality parts and
accessories in order to avoid the risk of
accidents and damage to the machine.
STIHL recommends the use of STIHL
original tools, guide bars, chains, chain
sprockets and accessories. They are
specifically designed to match your
model and meet your performance
requirements.
Never attempt to modify your power tool
in any way since this may increase the
risk of personal injury. STIHL excludes
all liability for personal injury and
damage to property caused while using
unauthorized attachments.
Do not use a pressure washer to clean
the unit. The solid jet of water may
damage parts of the unit.
Clothing and Equipment
Wear proper protective clothing and
equipment.
Clothing must be sturdy
but allow complete freedom of movement. Wear
snug-fitting clothing with
cut retardant inserts –
an overall and jacket
combination, do not wear
a work coat.
Avoid clothing that could get caught on
branches or brush or moving parts of the
machine. Do not wear a scarf, necktie or
jewelry. Tie up and confine long hair
(e.g. with a hair net, cap, hard hat, etc.).
Wear steel-toed safety boots with cut retardant
inserts and non-slip
soles.
Wear a safety hard hat
where there is a danger
of head injuries from falling objects.
Wear safety glasses or a face shield
and hearing protection e.g. earplugs or
ear muffs.
Wear heavy-duty gloves.
STIHL offers a comprehensive range of
personal protective clothing and
equipment.
Transporting the Chain Saw
Always engage the chain brake and fit
the chain guard (scabbard) before
carrying the saw short distances. Also
stop the engine before carrying the saw
longer distances (more than about 50
m).
Always carry the saw by the front handle
(handlebar) – with the hot muffler away
from your body – the guide bar must
point to the rear. To avoid serious burn injuries, avoid touching hot parts of the
machine, especially the surface of the
muffler.
Transporting in a vehicle: Properly
secure your power tool to prevent
turnover, fuel spillage and damage.
MS 880
3
English
Fueling
Gasoline is an
extremely flammable
fuel. Keep clear of naked
flames. Do not spill any
fuel – do not smoke.
Always shut off the engine before
refueling.
Do not fuel a hot engine – fuel may spill and cause a fire.
Open the fuel cap carefully to allow any
pressure build-up in the tank to release
slowly and avoid fuel spillage.
Fuel your power tool only in wellventilated areas. If you spill fuel, wipe
the machine immediately – if fuel gets on
your clothing, change immediately.
Your power tool comes standard with
either a screw-type or bayonet-type fuel
cap.
After fueling, tighten
down the screw-type fuel
cap as securely as
possible.
Insert the fuel cap with
hinged grip (bayonet-type
cap) correctly in the
opening, turn it clockwise
as far as stop and fold the
grip down.
This reduces the risk of unit vibrations
causing the fuel cap to loosen or come
off and spill quantities of fuel.
Before starting
Check that your power tool is properly
assembled and in good condition – refer
to appropriate chapters in the instruction
manual.
–Check operation of chain brake,
front hand guard
–Correctly mounted guide bar
–Correctly tensioned chain
–Smooth action of throttle trigger and
throttle trigger interlock – throttle
trigger must return automatically to
idle position.
–Master Control lever / stop switch
must move easily to STOP or 0
–Check that the spark plug boot is
secure – a loose boot may cause
arcing that could ignite combustible
fumes and cause a fire.
–Never attempt to modify the controls
or the safety devices in any way.
–Keep the handles dry and clean –
free from oil and pitch – for safe
control of the chain saw.
To reduce the risk of personal injury,
do not operate your saw if it is damaged
or not properly assembled.
Starting the engine
Start the engine at least 3 meters from
the fueling spot, outdoors only.
Place the unit on firm ground in an open
area. Make sure you have good balance
and secure footing. Hold the unit
securely. The cutting attachment must
be clear of the ground and all other
obstructions because it may begin to run
when the engine starts.
Your chain saw is designed to be
operated by one person only. Do not
allow other persons in the work area –
even when starting.
To reduce risk of chain rotation and
personal injury, lock the chain with the
chain brake before starting.
Do not drop start your machine – the
correct starting procedure is described
in the instruction manual.
Do not attempt to start the saw when the
saw chain is in a cut.
Holding and Controlling the Power
Tool
001BA087 LÄ
Always hold your saw firmly with both
hands: Right hand on the rear handle,
even if you are left-handed. To ensure
safe control, wrap your fingers tightly
around the front and rear handles.
During Operation
Make sure you always have good
balance and secure footing.
4
MS 880
English
In the event of impending danger or in
an emergency, switch off the engine
immediately by moving the Master
Control lever / stop switch to STOP or 0.
Your power tool is designed to be
operated by one person only. Do not
allow other persons in the work area.
Never leave a running machine
unattended.
When the engine is running: Note that
the chain continues to rotate for a short
period after you let go of the throttle
trigger (flywheel effect).
Take special care in slippery conditions
– damp, snow, ice, on slopes, uneven
ground and freshly debarked logs.
Watch out for obstacles such as tree
stumps, roots and ditches which could
cause you to trip or stumble.
Do not work alone – keep within calling
distance of others in case help is
needed.
Be particularly alert and cautious when
wearing hearing protection because
your ability to hear warnings (shouts,
alarms, etc.) is restricted.
To reduce the risk of accidents, take a
break in good time to avoid tiredness or
exhaustion.
To reduce risk of fire, keep hot exhaust
gases and hot muffler away from easily
combustible materials (e.g. wood chips,
bark, dry grass, fuel). Mufflers with a
catalytic converter can become
particularly hot.
Your power tool produces
toxic exhaust fumes as
soon as the engine is
running. These fumes
may be colorless and
odorless and contain
unburned hydrocarbons
and benzol. Never run
the engine indoors or in
poorly ventilated locations, even if your model
is equipped with a catalytic converter.
To reduce the risk of serious or fatal
injury from breathing toxic fumes,
ensure proper ventilation when working
in trenches, hollows or other confined
locations.
To reduce the risk of accidents, stop
work immediately in the event of
nausea, headache, visual disturbances
(e.g. reduced field of vision), problems
with hearing, dizziness, deterioration in
ability to concentrate. Apart from other
possibilities, these symptoms may be
caused by an excessively high
concentration of exhaust gases in the
work area.
The dusts (e.g. sawdust), vapor and
smoke produced during operation may
be dangerous to health. If dust levels are
very high, wear a suitable respirator.
Check the saw chain at regular short
intervals during operation or
immediately if there is a noticeable
change in cutting behavior:
–Shut off the engine and wait until the
chain comes to a complete stanstill.
–Check condition
–Check sharpness.
Do not touch the chain while the engine
is running. If the chain becomes jammed
by an obstruction, switch off the engine
immediately before attempting to
remove the obstruction.
To reduce the risk of injury, shut off
the engine before changing the saw
chain.
To reduce the risk of fire, do not
smoke while operating or standing near
your power tool. Note that combustible
fuel vapor may escape from the fuel
system.
If your power tool is subjected to
unusually high loads for which it was not
designed (e.g. heavy impact or a fall),
always check that it is in good condition
before continuing work – see also
"Before Starting". Check the fuel system
in particular for leaks and make sure the
safety devices are working properly. Do
not continue operating your power tool if
it is damaged. In case of doubt, have the
machine checked by your servicing
dealer.
Make sure the idle speed setting is
correct. The chain must not run when
the engine is idling with the throttle
trigger released. Check and correct the
idle speed setting at regular intervals. If
the saw chain still moves, have your
dealer check your machine and make
proper adjustments or repairs.
Reactive Forces
The most common reactive forces that
occur during cutting are: kickback,
pushback and pull-in.
MS 880
5
English
Dangers of kickback
Kickback can result in
serious or fatal injury.
Kickback occurs when the saw is
suddenly thrown up and back in an
uncontrolled arc towards the operator.
Kickback occurs, e.g.
–when the upper quadrant of the bar
nose unintentionally contacts wood
or another solid object, e.g. when
another limb is touched accidentally
during limbing.
–when the chain at the nose of the
guide bar is pinched in the cut.
Quickstop chain brake:
This device reduces the risk of injury in
certain situations – it cannot prevent
kickback. If activated, the brake stops
the saw chain within a fraction of a
second – for a description of this device
001BA036 KN
refer to chapter on "Chain Brake" in this
manual.
To reduce the risk of kickback
–Work cautiously and avoid
situations which could cause
kickback.
–Hold the saw firmly with both hands
and maintain a secure grip.
–Always cut at full throttle.
–Be aware of the location of the guide
bar nose at all times.
–Do not cut with the bar nose.
–Take special care with small, tough
limbs, they may catch the chain.
–Never cut several limbs at once.
–Do not overreach.
–Never cut above shoulder height.
–Use extreme caution when re-
entering a previous cut.
–Do not attempt plunge cuts if you
are not experience in this cutting
001BA093 LÄ
technique.
–Be alert for shifting of the log or
other forces that may cause the cut
to close and pinch the chain.
–Always cut with a correctly
sharpened, properly tensioned
chain – the depth gauge setting
must not be too large.
–Use a low kickback chain and a
narrow radius guide bar.
Pull-in (A)
Pull-in occurs when the chain on the
bottom of the bar is suddenly pinched,
caught or encounters a foreign object in
the wood. The reaction of the chain pulls
the saw forward – always hold the
spiked bumper securely against the
tree or limb.
A
001BA037 KN
6
MS 880
English
Pushback (B)
B
Pushback occurs when the chain on the
top of the bar is suddenly pinched,
caught or encounters a foreign object in
the wood. The reaction of the chain
drives the saw straight back toward the
operator. To avoid pushback.
–Be alert to situations that may cause
the top of the guide bar to be
pinched
–Do not twist the guide bar in the cut.
Exercise extreme caution
–with leaners
–with trees that have fallen
unfavorably between other trees
and are under strain
–when working in blowdown areas.
Do not work with the chainsaw in such
circumstances. Use block and tackle,
cable winch or tractor.
Pull out exposed and cleared logs.
Select clear area for cutting.
Deadwood (dry, decayed or rotted
wood) represents a considerable risk
that is difficult to assess. Identifying the
extent of the dangers is complicated, if
not impossible. Use aids such as a cable
winch or tractor in such cases.
When felling in the vicinity of roads,
railways, power lines, etc., take extra
precautions. If necessary, inform the
police, utility company or railway
authority.
Cutting
Do not operate your saw with the
001BA038 KN
starting throttle lock engaged. Engine
speed cannot be controlled with the
throttle trigger in this position.
Work calmly and carefully – in daylight
conditions and only when visibility is
good. Ensure you do not endanger
others – stay alert at all times.
Use the shortest possible guide bar: The
chain, guide bar and chain sprocket
must match each other and your saw.
Position the saw so that your body is
clear of the cutting attachment.
Always pull the saw out of the cut with
the chain running.
Use your chain saw for cutting only. It is
not designed for prying or shoveling
away limbs, roots or other objects.
Do not underbuck freely hanging limbs.
To reduce the risk of injury, take
special care when cutting shattered
wood because of the risk of injury from
slivers being caught and thrown in your
direction.
Make sure your saw does not touch any
foreign materials: Stones, nails, etc. may
be flung off, damage the saw chain or
cause the saw to kick back
unexpectedly.
001BA082 KN
If on a slope, stand on the uphill side of
the log. Watch out for rolling logs.
When working at heights:
–Always use a lift bucket
–Never work on a ladder or in a tree
–Never work on an insecure support
–Do not work above shoulder height
–Never operate your unit with one
hand
001BA033 KN
MS 880
7
English
1
Begin cutting with the saw at full throttle
and engage the spiked bumper firmly in
the wood, and then continue cutting.
Never work without the spiked bumper
because the saw may pull you forwards
and off balance. Always hold the spiked
bumper securely against the tree or
limb.
Note when reaching the end of a cut that
the saw is no longer supported in the
kerf. You have to take the full weight of
the saw since it might otherwise go
out of control.
Felling
Do not attempt felling unless you have
been trained in the necessary
techniques. To reduce the risk of accidents and injury, do not attempt
felling or limbing if you are not an
experienced chain saw user.
Observe all country-specific regulations
on felling techniques.
Check that there are no other persons in
the felling area – other than helpers.
Make sure no-one is endangered by the
falling tree – the noise of your engine
may drown any warning calls.
Determine direction of fall and
escape paths
Select gap in stand into which you want
the tree to fall.
Pay special attention to the following
points:
–The natural lean of the tree
–Any unusually heavy limb structure,
damage
–The wind direction and speed – do
not fell in high winds
–Sloping ground
–Neighboring trees
–Snow load
–Soundness of tree – take special
care if trunk is damaged or in case
of deadwood (dry, decayed or rotted
wood)
B
45°
A
BEscape paths
–Establish paths of escape for
everyone concerned – opposite to
direction of fall at about 45°.
–Remove all obstacles from escape
paths.
–Place all tools and equipment a safe
distance away from the tree, but not
on the escape paths.
–Always keep to the side of the falling
tree and only walk away along the
preplanned escape path.
–On steep slopes, plan escape
routes parallel to the slope.
–When walking away along the
escape path, watch out for falling
limbs and watch the top of the tree.
Preparing work area at base of tree
–First clear the tree base and work
area from interfering limbs and
brush to provide a secure footing.
–Clean lower portion of tree base
(e.g. with an axe) – sand, stones
and other foreign objects will dull the
saw chain.
1
/
2
1
/
2
2
Maintain a distance of at least 2 1/2 tree
lengths from the next felling site.
8
1
001BA088 LÄ
ADirection of fall
B
45°
–Remove large buttress roots: Make
001BA040 KN
the vertical cut first, then the
horizontal – but only if the wood is
sound
001BA146 KN
MS 880
English
Felling notch
When making the felling notch, make
use of the gunning sight on the shroud
and fan housing to check the planned
direction of fall.
Position your saw so that the gunning
sight points in exactly the direction you
want the tree to fall.
There are several approved methods for
making the felling notch – observe
country-specific regulations on felling
techniques.
C
001BA153 KN
C
The felling notch (C) determines the
direction of fall.
STIHL recommends the following
method:
NMake the horizontal cut – check the
direction of fall with the gunning
sight.
NMake angle cut at about 45°.
NCheck the felling notch and correct it
if necessary.
Important:
–Felling notch at a right angle to the
planned direction of fall.
–As close to the ground as possible.
–Cut to a depth of about 1/5 to 1/3 of
the trunk diameter.
Sapwood cuts
001BA143 KN
001BA150 KN
Sapwood cuts in long-fibered softwood
help prevent sapwood splintering when
the tree falls. Make cuts at both sides of
the trunk at same height as bottom of
felling notch to a depth of about 1/10 of
trunk diameter. On large diameter trees,
cut to no more than width of guide bar.
Do not make sapwood cuts if wood is
diseased.
MS 880
9
English
Felling
D
D
Shout a warning before starting the
felling cut.
NMake the felling cut (D) slightly
higher than bottom of the felling
notch.
–Cut horizontally.
–Leave approx. 1/10 of the tree
diameter uncut between the felling
cut and the felling notch. This is the
hinge.
Drive wedges into the felling cut in good
time. Use only wooden, aluminum or
plastic wedges. Never steel, which can
damage the chain and cause kickback.
E
E
001BA144 KN
The hinge (E) helps control the falling
tree.
–Do not cut through the hinge – you
could lose control of the direction of
fall – this could result in an
accident.
–Leave a broader hinge on rotten
trees.
Shout a second warning immediately
before the tree falls.
Small diameter trees: Simple fan cut
001BA145 KN
001BA147 KN
NApply the spiked bumper behind the
hinge – pivot the saw around this
point - only as far as the hinge. The
spiked bumper rolls against the
trunk.
10
MS 880
Large diameter trees: Sectioning
method
English
3
1
If the diameter of the tree is greater than
the length of the guide bar, use the
sectioning method.
1. First cut
Nose of guide bar should enter
wood just behind the hinge – hold
the saw horizontally and swing it as
far as possible, using the bumper
spike as a pivot – avoid
repositioning the saw more than
necessary.
2
4
2. When repositioning the saw for the
001BA148 KN
next cut, keep the guide bar fully
engaged in the kerf to keep the
felling cut straight – apply the spiked
bumper again, and so on.
3. Insert a wedge (3) in the cut.
4. Last cut: Apply the spiked bumper
as for the simple fan cut – do not cut
through the hinge.
Special cutting techniques
Plunge cuts and heartwood cuts require
special training and experience.
portion of the guide bar nose – do
not use upper portion because of –
risk of kickback. Cut until depth of
kerf is twice the width of the guide
bar.
2. Swing saw slowly into plunge-
cutting position – take care because
of the risk of kickback or
pushback.
3. Make the plunge cut very carefully.
Danger of pushback.
Heartwood cut
–If tree diameter is more than twice
the length of the guide bar.
–If a large portion of heartwood
remains uncut on large diameter
trees.
001BA179 KN
MS 880
11
English
–On trees that are difficult to fell (oak,
beech), to prevent heartwood
splintering and maintain planned
direction of fall.
–On soft deciduous trees to relieve
tension in lying log and prevent
slivers in the center of the hinge
being torn out of the log.
NMake the plunge cut in the center of
the felling notch – there is a danger of pushback at this point – then
swing the bar in the direction of the
arrow.
Limbing
Do not attempt limbing unless you have
been trained in the necessary
techniques. To reduce the risk of accidents and injury, do not attempt
felling or limbing if you are not an
experienced chain saw user.
–Use a low kickback chain.
–Work with the saw supported
wherever possible.
–Do not stand on the log while
limbing it.
–Do not cut with the bar nose.
–Watch for limbs which are under
tension.
–Never cut several limbs at once.
When cutting small logs
–Use a sturdy and stable support –
sawhorse.
–Never hold the log with your leg or
foot.
–Never allow another person to hold
the log or help in any other way.
Lying or standing logs under tension
Always make cuts in the correct
sequence (first at the compression
side (1), then at the tension side (2), the
saw may otherwise pinch or kick back–
risk of injury.
1
2
2
1
Be wary of pushback when making
bucking cut from the bottom upwards
(underbuck).
Do not cut a lying log at a point
where it is touching the ground
because the saw chain will
otherwise be damaged.
Ripping cut
001BA151 KN
Cutting technique in which the bumper
spike is not used – risk of pull-in – start
the cut with the guide bar at the
shallowest possible angle – take extra
care since there is an increased danger of kickback.
001BA152 KN
001BA189 KN
12
NMake relieving cut at the
compression side (1)
NMake bucking cut at the tension
side (2)
MS 880
English
Vibrations
Prolonged use of the power tool may
result in vibration-induced circulation
problems in the hands (whitefinger
disease).
No general recommendation can be
given for the length of usage because it
depends on several factors.
The period of usage is prolonged by:
–Hand protection (wearing warm
gloves)
–Work breaks
The period of usage is shortened by:
–Any personal tendency to suffer
from poor circulation (symptoms:
frequently cold fingers, tingling
sensations).
–Low outside temperatures.
–The force with which the handles
are held (a tight grip restricts
circulation).
Continual and regular users should
monitor closely the condition of their
hands and fingers. If any of the above
symptoms appear (e.g. tingling
sensation in fingers), seek medical
advice.
Maintenance and Repairs
Service the machine regularly. Do not
attempt any maintenance or repair work
not described in the instruction manual.
Have all other work performed by a
servicing dealer.
STIHL recommends that you have
servicing and repair work carried out
exclusively by an authorized STIHL
servicing dealer. STIHL dealers are
regularly given the opportunity to attend
training courses and are supplied with
the necessary technical information.
Only use high-quality replacement parts
in order to avoid the risk of accidents
and damage to the machine. If you have
any questions in this respect, consult a
servicing dealer.
STIHL recommends the use of genuine
STIHL replacement parts. They are
specifically designed to match your
model and meet your performance
requirements.
To reduce the risk of injury, always shut off the engine before carrying out any
maintenance or repairs or cleaning the
machine. – Exception: Carburetor and
idle speed adjustments.
Do not turn the engine over on the
starter with the spark plug boot or spark
plug removed unless the slide control /
stop switch is on STOP or 0 since there
is otherwise a risk of fire from
uncontained sparking.
To reduce the risk of fire, do not service
or store your machine near open flames.
Check the fuel filler cap for leaks at
regular intervals.
Use only a spark plug of the type
approved by STIHL and make sure it is
in good condition – see "Specifications".
Inspect the ignition lead (insulation in
good condition, secure connection).
Check the condition of the muffler.
To reduce the risk of fire and damage to hearing, do not operate your
machine if the muffler is damaged or
missing. –
Do not touch a hot muffler since burn injury will result.
Vibration behavior is influenced by the
condition of the AV elements – check the
AV elements at regular intervals.
Check the chain catcher and replace it
if damaged.
Stopping the Engine
–before checking chain tension.
–before retensioning the chain.
–before replacing the chain.
–before rectifying problems.
Observe sharpening instructions –
keep the chain and guide bar in good
condition at all times for safe and correct
handling of the saw. The chain must be
properly sharpened, tensioned and well
lubricated.
Always change the chain, guide bar and
sprocket in good time.
Check condition of clutch drum
periodically.
Store fuel and chain lubricant in properly
labelled, safety-type canisters only.
When handling gasoline, avoid direct
contact with the skin and avoid inhaling
fuel vapour – health risk.
To reduce the risk of injury, shut off the
engine immediately if the chain brake
malfunctions – contact your servicing
dealer – do not use your power tool until
the problem has been rectified (see
"Chain Brake").
MS 880
13
English
Maintenance, replacement, or repair
of the emission control devices and
systems may be performed by any
nonroad engine repair establishment
or individual. However, if you make a
warranty claim for a component
which has not been serviced or
maintained properly or if
nonapproved replacement parts were
used, STIHL may deny coverage.
For any maintenance please refer to the
maintenance chart and to the warranty
statement near the end of the instruction
manual.
Cutting Attachment
STIHL is the only manufacturer in the
industry to produce its own chain saws,
guide bars, saw chains and chain
sprockets.
A cutting attachment consists of the saw
chain, guide bar and chain sprocket.
The cutting attachment that comes
standard is designed to exactly match
the chain saw.
1
2
a
t = a : 2
–The pitch (t) of the saw chain (1),
chain sprocket and the nose
sprocket of the Rollomatic guide bar
must match.
–The drive link gauge (2) of the saw
chain (1) must match the groove
width of the guide bar (3).
If non-matching components are used,
the cutting attachment may be damaged
beyond repair after a short period of
operation.
3
Mounting the Bar and
Chain
Removing the chain sprocket cover
143BA034 KN
NUnscrew the nuts and take off the
chain sprocket cover.
1
001BA191 KN
2
001BA185 KN
NTurn the screw (1)
counterclockwise until the tensioner
slide (2) butts against the left end of
the housing slot.
14
MS 880
English
Disengaging the chain brake.
NPull the hand guarad towards the
front handle until there is an audible
click – the chain brake is
disengaged.
Fitting the chain
Wear work gloves to protect your
hands from the sharp cutters.
NFit the chain – start at the bar nose.
3
NFit the guide bar over the studs (1) –
001BA186 KN
143BA003 KN
the cutting edges on the top of the
bar must point to the right.
NEngage the peg of the tensioner
slide in the locating hole (2) –- place
the chain over sprocket (3) at the
same time.
NTurn the tensioning
screw (4)clockwise until there is
very little chain sag on the
underside of the bar – and the drive
link tangs are engaged in the bar
groove.
NRefit the sprocket cover and screw
on the nuts only fingertight.
NGo to chapter on "Tensioning the
Saw Chain"
1
1
4
2
Tensioning the Chain
001BA187 KN
1
Retensioning during cutting work:
NShut off the engine.
NLoosen the nuts.
NHold the bar nose up.
NUse a screwdriver to turn the
tensioning screw (1) clockwise until
the chain fits snugly against the
underside of the bar.
NWhile still holding the bar nose up,
tighten down the nuts firmly.
NGo to "Checking Chain Tension".
A new chain has to be retensioned more
often than one that has been in use for
some time.
NCheck chain tension frequently –
see chapter on "Operating
Instructions".
133BA024 KN
MS 880
15
English
Checking Chain Tension
NShut off the engine.
NWear work gloves to protect your
hands.
NThe chain must fit snugly against
the underside of the bar and it must
still be possible to pull the chain
along the bar by hand.
NIf necessary, retension the chain.
A new chain has to be retensioned more
often than one that has been in use for
some time.
NCheck chain tension frequently –
see chapter on "Operating
Instructions".
Fuel
This engine is certified to operate on
unleaded gasoline and with the mix ratio
50:1.
Your engine requires a mixture of highquality premium gasoline and highquality two-stroke air-cooled engine oil.
Use premium branded unleaded
gasoline with a minimum octane rating
143BA007 KN
of 89 RON.
Note: Models equipped with a catalytic
converter require unleaded gasoline. A
few tankfuls of leaded gasoline can
reduce the efficiency of the catalytic
converter by more than 50%.
Fuel with a lower octane rating may
result in preignition (causing "pinging")
which is accompanied by an increase in
engine temperature. This, in turn,
increases the risk of the piston seizure
and damage to the engine.
The chemical composition of the fuel is
also important. Some fuel additives not
only detrimentally affect elastomers
(carburetor diaphragms, oil seals, fuel
lines etc.), but magnesium castings as
well. This could cause running problems
or even damage the engine. For this
reason it is essential that you use only
high-quality fuels!
Fuels with different percentages of
ethanol are being offered. Ethanol can
affect the running behaviour of the
engine and increase the risk of lean
seizure.
Use only STIHL two-stroke engine oil or
equivalent high-quality two-stroke aircooled engine oils for mixing.
We recommend STIHL 50:1 two-stroke
engine oil since it is specially formulated
for use in STIHL engines.
Do not use BIA or TCW (two-stroke
water cooled) mix oils!
Use only STIHL 50:1 heavy-duty engine oil or an equivalent quality twostroke engine oil for the fuel mix in
models equipped with a catalytic converter.
Take care when handling gasoline.
Avoid direct contact with the skin and
avoid inhaling fuel vapour.
The canister should be kept tightly
closed in order to avoid any moisture
getting into the mixture.
The fuel tank and the canister in which
fuel mix is stored should be cleaned
from time to time.
Fuel mix ratio
Only mix sufficient fuel for a few days
work, not to exceed 3 months of storage.
Store in approved safety fuel-canisters
only. When mixing, pour oil into the
canister first, and then add gasoline.
Dispose of empty mixing-oil canisters
only at authorized disposal locations.
Fueling
Fuel filler cap
NBefore fueling, clean the cap and
the area around it to ensure that no
dirt falls into the fuel tank
NAlways position the machine so that
the cap is facing upwards
Opening
001BA219 KN
NTurn the cap counterclockwise
(approx. 1/4 turn)
001BA229 KN
001BA224 KN
NRemove fuel filler cap
Refueling
Take care not to spill fuel while fueling
and do not overfill the tank.
STIHL recommends use of the STIHL
filling system for fuel (special
accessory).
NRefueling
MS 880
001BA218 KN
NSwing the clip into an upright
position
17
English
Closing
Clip is in an upright position:
NFit the cap – position marks on the
cap and the filling port must line up
NPush the cap down as far as it will
go
NHold the cap down and twist it
clockwise until it engages
Checking the lock
001BA220 KN
–The lug on the clip must engage
entirely in the recess (arrow)
NGrip the cap – if the cap cannot be
moved or removed, then it is closed
001BA221 KN
properly
If the cap can be moved or removed
The base of the cap is tilted in relation to
the upper part:
Left:Base of cap tilted
001BA223 KN
Right:Base of cap correctly
positioned
001BA225 KN
NFit cap and twist it counterclockwise
until it engages in the seat of the
filling port
NContinue to twist the cap
counterclockwise (approx. 1/4 turn)
– this will twist the base of the cap
into the correct position
NTwist the cap clockwise and close it
– see the section "Closing" and
"Checking the lock"
001BA227 KN
001BA226 KN
NFold down the clip as far as it will go
18
001BA222 KN
MS 880
English
Chain Lubricant
For automatic and reliable lubrication of
the chain and guide bar – use only an
environmentally compatible quality
chain and bar lubricant. Rapidly
biodegradable STIHL Bioplus is
recommended.
Biological chain oil must be
resistant to aging (e.g. STIHL
Bioplus) since it will otherwise
quickly turn to resin. This results
in hard deposits that are difficult to
remove, especially in the area of
the chain drive, clutch and chain.
It may even cause the oil pump to
seize.
The service life of the chain and guide
bar depends on the quality of the
lubricant. It is therefore essential to use
only a specially formulated chain
lubricant.
Do not use waste oil. Renewed
contact with waste oil can cause
skin cancer. Moreover, waste oil is
environmentally harmful.
Waste oil does not have the
necessary lubricating properties
and is unsuitable for chain
lubrication.
Filling Chain Oil Tank
Preparations
NThoroughly clean the oil filler cap
and the area around it to ensure that
no dirt falls into the tank.
NPosition the machine so that the
filler cap is facing up.
NOpen the filler cap.
Fill up with chain oil.
NRefill the chain oil tank every time
you refuel.
Take care not to spill chain oil while
refilling and do not overfill the tank.
STIHL recommends you use the STIHL
filler nozzle for chain oil (special
accessory).
NClose the filler cap.
There must still be a small amount of oil
in the oil tank when the fuel tank is
empty.
If the oil level in the tank does not go
down, the reason may be a fault in the oil
supply system: Check chain lubrication,
clean the oilways, contact your dealer
for assistance if necessary STIHL
recommends that you have servicing
and repair work carried out exclusively
by an authorized STIHL servicing
dealer.
001BA158 KN
MS 880
19
English
Checking Chain
Lubrication
The saw chain must always throw off a
small amount of oil.
Never operate your saw without
chain lubrication. If the chain runs
dry, the whole cutting attachment
will be irretrievably damaged
within a very short time. Always
check chain lubrication and the oil
level in the tank before starting
work.
Every new chain has to be broken in for
about 2 to 3 minutes.
After breaking in the chain, check chain
tension and adjust if necessary – see
"Checking Chain Tension".
Chain Brake
Locking the chain
143BA024 KN
–in an emergency
–when starting
–at idling speed
The chain brake is activated by pushing
the hand guard toward the bar nose with
your left hand – or by inertia in certain
kickback situations: The chain is
stopped and locked.
Releasing the chain brake
NPull the hand guard back toward the
front handle,
Always disengage chain brake
before accelerating the engine
(except when checking its
143BA011 KN
operation) and before starting
cutting work.
High revs with the chain brake
engaged (chain locked) will
quickly damage the powerhead
and chain drive (clutch, chain
brake).
The chain brake is also activated by the
inertia of the front hand guard if the
kickback force of the saw is high
enough: The hand guard is accelerated
toward the bar nose – even if your left
hand is not behind the hand guard, e.g.
during felling cut.
143BA012 KN
20
MS 880
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The chain brake will operate only if the
hand guard has not been modified in any
way.
Check operation of the chain brake
Before starting work: Run engine at idle
speed, engage the chain brake (push
hand guard toward bar nose) and open
the throttle wide for no more than
3 seconds – the chain must not rotate.
The hand guard must be free from dirt
and move freely.
Chain brake maintenance
The chain brake is subject to normal
wear. It is necessary to have it serviced
and maintained regularly by trained
personnel. STIHL recommends that you
have servicing and repair work carried
out exclusively by an authorized STIHL
servicing dealer. Maintain the following
servicing intervals:
Full-time usage:every 3
months
Part-time usage:every 6
months
Occasional usage:every 12
months
Winter Operation
At temperatures below 10 °C:
1
2
Pre-heat carburetor
NRemove the carburetor box cover
Nin the carburetor box cover, move
the slide from summer position (1)
to winter position (2)
Heated air is now drawn in from around
the cylinder and mixed with cold air –
this helps prevent carburetor icing.
Above 20 °C, always return the
slide to the position for "summer
operation" again! Risk of engine
malfunction – overheating!
Air filter system
NRetrofit new air filter if necessary –
see "Air filter system"
At temperatures below -10 °C (intake
air pre-heating)
171BA022 KN
171BA002 KN
Under extreme winter conditions
(temperatures below -10 °C, powdered
or drifting snow), it is recommended to
break out the insert in the cover along
the perforated outline using a suitable
tool.
This causes only warm air from the
vicinity of the cylinder to be taken in –
prevents icing of air filter and carburetor.
Nif the chain saw is extremely cold
(frost formation) – after starting,
bring the engine up to operating
temperature at increased idle speed
(disengage chain brake!)
When used with pre-heating of intake
air, heavier fouling of the air filter may
occur – shorten cleaning intervals.
MS 880
21
English
1
Nif engine trouble occurs, first check
whether use of intake air preheating is necessary
Nat higher temperatures, close the
opening with stoppers (1) (special
accessory)
Starting / Stopping the
Engine
Positions of the Master Control lever
STOP
0
171BA003 KN
Stop 0 – engine off – ignition is switched
off
Operating position F – engine is
running or can start
Warm startn – this position is for
starting the warm engine – the Master
Control lever returns to the operating
position when the throttle trigger is
squeezed
Cold start l – this position is for
starting the cold engine
Adjust Master Control lever
The throttle trigger lockout and throttle
trigger must be pressed simultaneously
to adjust the Master Control lever from
operating position F to starting
acceleration n or choke shutter
closed l.
Position choke shutter closed l
–If engine is cold
–if the engine stalls during opening of
throttle after starting
–the fuel tank has run empty (engine
stalled out)
Position starting acceleration n
–if engine is warm (once the engine
has been running for approx. one
minute)
–when engine begins to fire
–after ventilation of the combustion
001BA140 KN
chamber, if the engine was flooded
Holding the chain saw
There are two ways to hold the chain
saw during starting.
22
MS 880
English
On the ground
NPlace the chain saw securely on the
ground –assume a steady stance –
the saw chain must not touch any
objects and also must not touch the
ground
NWith the left hand on handlebar,
press the chain saw firmly against
the ground – thumb wrapped
around the handlebar
NPlace your right foot through the
rear handle
Between the knees or thighs
143BA018 KN
Nclamp the rear handle between the
knees or thighs
Ngrip the handlebar firmly with the left
hand – thumb wrapped around the
handlebar
Starting
143BA019 KN
143BA020 KN
Nwith the right hand, pull the starter
grip slowly until you feel it engage –
and then give it a brisk strong pull –
simultaneously press down on the
handlebar – do not pull the starter
rope out all the way – risk of breakage! Do not let the starter grip
snap back – guide it slowly back into
the housing so that it can rewind
properly
With a new engine or after a long period
of disuse, with machines without an
additional manual fuel pump, it may be
necessary to pull the starter rope several
times - to prime the fuel line.
MS 880
Starting the chainsaw
There must not be anyone within
the swivel range of the chain saw.
23
English
NPress the button, the
decompression valve will be
opened
The decompression valve is closed
automatically when the engine starts for
the first time. For this reason, press the
button again before each additional
starting procedure.
0
1
4
133BA001 K
NPush the hand guard (1) forwards –
the saw chain is blocked
NSimultaneously press the throttle
trigger lockout (2) and throttle
trigger (3) – set master control
lever (4)
Position choke shutter closed l
–if engine is cold (even if the engine
has stalled during opening of
throttle after starting)
Position starting acceleration n
–if engine is warm (once the engine
has been running for approx. one
minute)
NHold and start the chain saw
STOP
3
When the engine has turned over for
the first time
STOP
0
1
550BA002 SC
2
NMove the Master Control lever (1) to
the position starting accelerationn
NPress the button on the
decompression valve
550BA001 SC
NHold and start the chain saw
Once the engine is running
STOP
1
0
2
550BA003 SC
NBlip the throttle trigger (2); the
Master Control lever (1) jumps to
the operating position F and the
engine begins to idle
24
MS 880
English
NPull the hand guard toward the
handlebar
The chain brake is released – the chain
saw is ready for use.
Open the throttle only when the
chain brake is off. Increased
engine speeds with the chain
brake on (saw chain is stationary)
lead to damage to the clutch and
chain brake.
At very low outside temperatures
Nlet the engine warm up briefly with
the throttle slightly open
Switch off engine
NMove the Master Control lever to the
stop position 0
Nif necessary, configure for winter
operation, see "Winter Operation"
If the engine does not start
The Master Control lever was not
returned from the position choke shutter
closed l to starting acceleration n in
time, the engine may be flooded.
NMove the Master Control lever to the
stop position 0
NRemove the spark plug – see
"Spark plug"
NDry spark plug
NCrank the engine several times with
001BA186 KN
the starter – to clear the combustion
chamber
NReplace the spark plug – see
"Spark plug"
NSet the Master Control lever to
starting acceleration n – even if
the engine is cold
NPress the button on the
decompression valve
NRestart the engine
Operating Instructions
During the break-in period
A factory new machine should not be run
at high revs (full throttle off load) for the
first three tank fillings. This avoids
unnecessarily high loads during the
break-in period. As all moving parts
have to bed in during the break-in
period, the frictional resistances in the
shortblock are greater during this period.
The engine develops its maximum
power after about 5 to 15 tank fillings.
During work
Do not make the mixture leaner to
achieve an apparent increase in
power – this could damage the
engine – see "Adjusting the
Carburetor".
Open the throttle only when the
chain brake is off. Running the
engine at high revs with the chain
brake engaged (chain locked) will
quickly damage the shortblock
and chain drive (clutch, chain
brake).
Check chain tension frequently
A new saw chain must be retensioned
more frequently than one that has been
in use already for an extended period.
MS 880
25
English
Chain cold
Tension is correct when the chain fits
snugly against the underside of the bar
but can still be pulled along the bar by
hand. Retension if necessary – see
"Tensioning the Saw Chain".
Chain at operating temperature
The chain stretches and begins to sag.
The drive links must not come out of the
bar groove on the underside of the bar –
the chain may otherwise jump off the
bar. Retension the chain – see
"Tensioning the Saw Chain".
The chain contracts as it cools
down. If it is not slackened off, it
can damage the crankshaft and
bearings.
After a long period of full-throttle
operation
After a long period of full-throttle
operation, allow engine to run for a while
at idle speed so that the heat in the
engine can be dissipated by flow of
cooling air. This protects enginemounted components (ignition,
carburetor) from thermal overload.
After finishing work
NSlacken off the chain if you have
retensioned it at operating
temperature during work.
Always slacken off the chain again
after finishing work. The chain
contracts as it cools down. If it is
not slackened off, it can damage
the crankshaft and bearings.
Short-term storage
Wait for engine to cool down. Keep the
machine with a full tank of fuel in a dry
place, well away from sources of
ignition, until you need it again.
Long-term storage
See "Storing the machine"
Oil Quantity Control
Adjustable flow oil pump is a special
option.
Different quantities of oil are required for
different bar lengths, types of wood and
cutting techniques.
1
001BA157 KN
Use the adjusting screw (1) (on
underside of machine) to vary the oil
feed rate as required.
Ematic position (E), medium oil flow rate
–
Nturn the adjusting screw to "E"
(Ematic position).
To increase oil feed –
Nturn the adjusting screw clockwise.
Turn reduce oil feed –
Nturn the adjusting screw
counterclockwise.
The chain must always be wetted
with a film of lubricant.
26
MS 880
English
Taking Care of the Guide
Bar
2
1
NTurn the bar over – every time you
sharpen the chain and every time
you replace the chain – this helps
avoid one-sided wear, especially at
the nose and underside of the bar.
NRegularly clean the oil inlet hole (1),
the oilway (2) and the bar
groove (3).
NMeasure the groove depth – with
the scale on the filing gauge (special
accessory) – in the area used most
for cutting.
3
If groove depth is less than specified:
NReplace the guide bar.
The drive link tangs will otherwise
scrape along the bottom of the groove –
the cutters and tie straps will not ride on
the bar rails.
143BA026 KN
Air Filter System
The air filter system can be adapted to
different operating conditions by the
insertion of different air filters.
Retrofitting is simple.
001BA210 KN
NHD2 filter (black filter frame, pleated
filter fabric) for normal, dry or
extremely dusty operating
environments
001BA211 KN
NHD air filter (black filter housing)
with felt prefilter for normal, dry or
very dusty operating environments
Chain type PitchMinimum
groove depth
Picco3/8" P5.0 mm
Rapid1/4“4.0 mm
Rapid3/8“; 0.325“ 6.0 mm
Rapid0.404“7.0 mm
MS 880
27
English
NWire mesh air filter (green filter
housing) for extreme winter
conditions (e. g., powdered or flying
snow or frost formation)
When dry, STIHL filters attain a long
service life.
NAlways use STIHL filters dry
Fouled air filters will impair engine
performance, increase fuel consumption
and make the machine more difficult to
start.
Remove air filter
001BA212 KN
NTurn the knob above the rear handle
in the direction of the arrow and
remove the carburetor box cover
NRemove filter
Cleaning the Air Filter
HD2 filters and wire mesh filters
145BA027 K
–HD2 filter – black filter frame,
pleated filter fabric (left)
–Wire mesh filter – green filter
housing (right)
If there is a noticeable loss of engine
power:
NKnock out the filter or blow it clear
145BA028 K
with compressed air from the inside
outwards
In case of stubborn dirt or stuck filter
fabric
NWash the filter in STIHL special-
purpose cleaner (special
accessory) or a clean, nonflammable cleaning liquid (e. g.,
warm soapy water) – rinse the filter
from inside to out under a water jet
– do not use high-pressure cleaners
NDry all filter parts – do not expose to
extreme heat
NDo not oil the filter
Always replace a damaged filter.
NReinstall filter
001BA213 KN
28
MS 880
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