STIHL MSA 160 C-BQ Owner's Manual
STIHL MSA 160 C
{
Instruction Manual
Manual de instrucciones
Warning!
To reduce the risk of kickback injury use
STIHL reduced kickback bar and STIHL PM3
(1/4“ Picco) chain depending on sprocket pitch
or other available low kickback components.
Advertencia!
Para reducir el riesgo de lesionarse como
resultado de un culatazo, utilice la barra de
contragolpe reducido y la cadena PM3 (Picco
de 1/4 pulg) de STIHL, dependiendo de la
rueda dentada usada y de otros componentes
reductores de contragolpe.
Read and follow all safety precautions in
Instruction Manual – improper use can cause
serious or fatal injury.
Lea y siga todas las precauciones de
seguridad dadas en el manual de
instrucciones – el uso incorrecto puede causar
lesiones graves o mortales.
Instruction Manual
1 - 56
Manual de
instrucciones
57 - 117
Contents
English
Guide to Using this Manual 2
Safety Precautions for Chain Saw
Users 2
Safety Precautions and Working
Techniques 4
Description of Operation 23
Cutting Attachment 23
Mounting the Bar and Chain (quick
chain tensioner) 23
Original Instruction ManualPrinted on chlorine-free paper
Tensioning the Saw Chain (quick
chain tensioner) 25
Checking Chain Tension 25
Chain Lubricant 26
Filling Chain Oil Tank 26
Checking Chain Lubrication 28
Coasting Brake 28
Chain Brake 28
Connecting Charger to Power
Supply 29
Charging the Battery 29
Light Emitting Diodes (LED) on
Battery 30
Light Emitting Diodes (LED) on
Printing inks contain vegetable oils, paper can be recycled.
Charger 32
Switching On 33
Switching Off 34
Operating Instructions 34
Taking Care of the Guide Bar 35
Storing the Machine 36
Checking and Replacing the Chain
Sprocket 36
Maintaining and Sharpening the
Saw Chain 37
Maintenance and Care 41
Main Parts 43
Specifications 45
Special Accessories 46
Ordering Spare Parts 47
Troubleshooting 48
Maintenance and Repairs 50
Battery Recycling 50
Disposal 50
Trademarks 51
Addresses 52
General Power Tool Safety
Warnings 53
Allow only persons who fully understand
this manual to operate your chain saw.
To receive maximum performance and
satisfaction from your STIHL chain saw,
it is important that you read, understand
and follow the safety precautions and
the operating and maintenance
instructions in chapter "Safety
Precautions and Working Techniques"
before using your chain saw. For further
information you can go to
www.stihlusa.com.
Contact your STIHL dealer or the STIHL
distributor for your area if you do not
understand any of the instructions in this
manual.
Warning!
Because a chain saw is a high-speed
wood-cutting tool, some special safety
precautions must be observed as with
any other power saw to reduce the risk
of personal injury. Careless or improper
use may cause serious or even fatal
injury.
{
© ANDREAS STIHL AG & Co. KG, 2011
0458-701-8621-A. M8.D11.FST.
0000004001_002_GB
MSA 160 C
1
English
Guide to Using this Manual
Pictograms
The meanings of the pictograms
attached to or embossed on the
machine are explained in this manual.
Depending on the model concerned, the
following pictograms may be on your
machine.
Chain oil tank; chain oil
Direction of chain rotation
Tension the chain
Symbols in Text
Many operating and safety instructions
are supported by illustrations.
The individual steps or procedures
described in the manual may be marked
in different ways:
N A bullet marks a step or procedure.
A description of a step or procedure that
refers directly to an illustration may
contain item numbers that appear in the
illustration. Example:
N Loosen the screw (1).
N Lever (2) ...
In addition to the operating instructions,
this manual may contain paragraphs
that require your special attention. Such
paragraphs are marked with the
symbols and signal words described
below:
Danger!
Indicates an imminent risk of severe or
fatal injury.
Warning!
Indicates a hazardous situation which, if
not avoided, could result in severe or
fatal injury.
Caution!
Indicates a risk of property damage,
including damage to the machine or its
individual components.
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 for assistance.
Safety Precautions for
Chain Saw Users
Warning!
When using cordless electric chain
saws, basic safety precautions should
always be followed to reduce the risk of
fire, electric shock and personal injury,
including the following:
READ ALL INSTRUCTIONS
1. Keep Work Area Clean –
Cluttered areas invite injuries. Do
not start cutting until you have a
clear work area, secure footing and
a planned retreat path from the
falling tree.
2. Consider Work Area Environment –
Use extreme caution when cutting
small size brush and saplings
because the slender material may
catch the saw chain and be whipped
toward you or pull you off balance.
Do not operate chain saw in a tree
unless specifically trained to do so.
When cutting a limb that is under
tension be alert for spring back so
that you will not be struck when the
tension in the wood fibers is
released. Don’t expose chain saw to
rain. Don’t use chain saw in damp or
wet locations. Do not use chain saw
in presence of flammable liquids or
gases.
3. Guard Against Electric Shock –
Prevent body contact with grounded
surfaces. For example: metal pipes,
wire fences.
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4. Keep Children Away –
Do not let bystanders contact chain
saw. All bystanders should be kept
away from work area.
5. Store Idle Chain Saw Indoors –
When not in use, chain saws should
be stored indoors in a dry, and high
or locked-up place with battery
removed and chain brake engaged
(front hand guard on ƒ – out of
reach of children). When storing
saw, use a scabbard or carrying
case.
6. Don’t Force Chain Saw –
It will do the job better and safer at
the rate for which it was designed.
7. Use Right Tool –
Cut wood only.
Don’t use chain saw for purpose not
intended – for example – don’t use
chain saw for cutting plastic,
masonry, non-wood building
materials.
8. Dress Properly –
Do not wear loose clothing or
jewelry. They can be caught in
moving parts. Use of heavy-duty,
nonslip gloves and substantial
footwear is recommended when
working outdoors. Wear protective
hair covering to contain long hair.
9. Use Safety Glasses –
Also use safety footwear; snug
fitting clothing; protective gloves;
hearing and head protection.
10. Carrying Saw –
Carry the chain saw by the front
handle with the saw stopped, finger
off the trigger switch, the guide bar
and saw chain to the rear. Do not
carry chain saw with battery
plugged in.
11. Maintain Chain Saw With Care –
Inspect chain saw periodically and if
damaged, have repaired by
authorized service facility. Keep
chain sharp and chain saw clean for
better and safer performance.
Follow instructions for lubricating
and changing accessories. Keep
handles dry, clean, and free from oil
and grease.
12. Switch Off Chain Saw –
Remove battery and move front
hand guard to ƒ when chain saw is
not in use, before servicing and
when changing accessories and
attachments, such as saw chain or
guard.
13. Stay Alert –
Watch what you are doing. Use
common sense. Do not operate
chain saw when you are tired. Keep
all parts of the body away from the
saw chain when the motor is
operating. Before you start the saw,
make sure the saw chain is not
contacting anything.
14. Check Damaged Parts –
Before further use of the chain saw,
a guard or other part that is
damaged or not functioning properly
should be carefully checked to
determine that it will operate
properly and perform its intended
function. Check for alignment of
moving parts, binding of moving
parts, breakage of parts, mounting,
and any other condition that may
affect its operation. A guard or other
part that is damaged should be
properly repaired or replaced by
your STIHL servicing dealer unless
indicated elsewhere in this manual.
Have damaged or non functioning
switches replaced by your STIHL
servicing dealer. Do not use chain
saw if switch does not turn it on and
off. Do not operate a chain saw that
is damaged, improperly adjusted, or
is not completely and securely
assembled. Be sure that the saw
chain stops moving when the trigger
switch is released.
15. Replacement Parts –
When servicing, use only identical
STIHL replacement parts
Warning!
Kickback may occur when the nose or
tip of the guide bar touches an object, or
when the wood closes in and pinches
the saw chain in the cut. Tip contact in
some cases may cause a lightning fast
reverse reaction, kicking the guide bar
up and back towards the operator.
Pinching the saw chain along the top of
the guide bar may push the guide bar
rapidly back towards the operator.
Either of these reactions may cause you
to lose control of the saw which could
result in serious personal injury.
The following precautions should be
followed to minimize kickback:
MSA 160 C
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English
1. Grip Saw Firmly –
Hold the chain saw firmly with both
hands when the motor is running.
Use a firm grip with thumbs and
fingers encircling the chain saw
handles.
2. Do not overreach.
3. Keep proper footing and balance at
all times.
4. Don’t let the nose of the guide bar
contact a log, branch, ground or
other obstruction.
5. Do not cut above shoulder height.
6. Use devices such as low kickback
chain, guide bar tip guards, chain
brakes and special guide bars that
reduce the risks associated with
kickback.
7. Only use replacement bars and
chains specified by the naufacturer
or the equivalent.
SAVE THESE INSTRUCTIONS
Safety Precautions and
Working Techniques
Because a chain saw is a
high-speed, fast-cutting
power tool, special safety
precautions must be
observed to reduce the
risk of personal injury.
It is important that you
read, fully understand
and observe the preceding and following safety
precautions and warnings. Read the instruction
manual and the safety
instructions periodically.
Careless or improper use
may cause serious or
fatal injury.
Warning!
Reactive forces, including kickback, can
be dangerous. Pay special attention to
the section on reactive forces.
Have your STIHL dealer show you how
to operate your power tool. 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.
The use of noise emitting power tools
may be restricted to certain times by
national, state or local regulations.
Warning!
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.
Warning!
The use of this machine may be hazardous.The saw chain has many sharp
cutters. If the cutters contact your flesh,
they will cut you, even if the chain is not
moving.
Use your chain saw only for cutting
wooden objects.
Warning!
Do not use it for other purposes, since
misuse may result in personal injury or
property damage, including damage to
the machine.
Warning!
Minors should never be allowed to use
this power tool. Bystanders, especially
children, and animals should not be
allowed in the area where it is in use.
Warning!
To reduce the risk of injury to bystanders and damage to property, never let
your power tool run unattended. When it
is not in use (e.g. during a work break),
shut it off and make sure that unauthorized persons do not use it. To do this,
move the front hand guard to
remove the battery from the power tool.
ƒ and
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MSA 160 C
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Most of these safety precautions and
warnings apply to the use of all STIHL
chain saws. Different models may have
different parts and controls. See the
appropriate section of your instruction
manual for a description of the controls
and the function of the parts of your
model.
Always switch off the motor, move front
hand guard to ƒ and remove the battery
before transporting, storing or carrying
out any work on the power tool. This
avoids the risk of the motor starting
unintentionally.
STIHL recommends the use of original
STIHL replacement parts. They are
specifically designed to match your
model and meet your performance
requirements.
Safe use of a chain saw involves
1 the operator
2 the power tool
3 the use of the power tool.
THE OPERATOR
Physical Condition
You must be in good physical condition
and mental health and not under the
influence of any substance (drugs,
alcohol, etc.) which might impair vision,
dexterity or judgment. Do not operate
this machine when you are fatigued.
Warning!
Be alert – if you get tired, take a break.
Tiredness may result in loss of control.
Working with any power tool can be
strenuous. If you have any condition
that might be aggravated by strenuous
work, check with your doctor before
operating this machine.
Warning!
Prolonged use of a power tool (or other
machines) exposing the operator to
vibrations may produce whitefinger disease (Raynaud's phenomenon) or
carpal tunnel syndrome.
These conditions reduce the hand's
ability to feel and regulate temperature,
produce numbness and burning
sensations and may cause nerve and
circulation damage and tissue necrosis.
All factors which contribute to
whitefinger disease are not known, but
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 whitefinger
disease. In order to reduce the risk of
whitefinger disease and carpal tunnel
syndrome, please note the following:
– Wear gloves and keep your hands
warm.
– Keep the saw chain sharp and the
saw well maintained. A dull chain
will increase cutting time, and
pressing a dull chain through wood
will increase the vibrations
transmitted to your hands. A power
tool with loose components will tend
to have higher vibration levels.
– Maintain a firm grip at all times, but
do not squeeze the handles with
constant, excessive pressure. Take
frequent breaks.
All the above-mentioned precautions do
not guarantee that you will not sustain
whitefinger disease or carpal tunnel
syndrome. Therefore, continual and
regular users should closely monitor the
condition of their hands and fingers. If
any of the above symptoms appear,
seek medical advice immediately.
Warning!
According to STIHL’s current knowledge, the electric motor of this unit
should not interfere with a pacemaker.
When in doubt, however, persons with a
pacemaker should consult their physician and the pacemaker manufacturer
before operating this tool.
Proper Clothing
Warning!
To reduce the risk of injury, the operator
should wear proper protective apparel.
MSA 160 C
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Clothing must be sturdy
and snug-fitting, but allow
complete freedom of
movement. Wear long
pants made of heavy
material to help protect
your legs from contact
with branches or brush.
To reduce the risk of cut
injuries, wear pants or
chaps that contain pads
of cut retardant material.
Avoid loose-fitting jackets, scarfs, neckties,
jewelry, flared or cuffed
pants, unconfined long
hair or anything that
could become caught on
branches, brush or the
moving parts of the unit.
Secure hair so it is above
shoulder level.
Good footing is very
important. Wear sturdy
boots with nonslip soles.
Steel-toed safety boots
are recommended. Never
wear sandals, flip-flops or
go barefoot.
Warning!
To reduce the risk of
injury to your eyes never
operate your power tool
unless wearing goggles
or properly fitted protec-
tive glasses with
adequate top and side protection complying with ANSI Z87.1 (or your
applicable national standard). 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.
Wear an approved safety hard hat to
reduce the risk of injury to your head
when there is a danger of head injuries.
Chain saw noise may damage your
hearing. Wear sound barriers (ear plugs
or ear mufflers) to protect your hearing.
Continual and regular users should
have their hearing checked regularly.
Be particularly alert and cautious when
wearing hearing protection because
your ability to hear warnings (shouts,
alarms, etc.) is restricted.
Always wear gloves
when handling the
machine and the cutting
tool. Heavy-duty, nonslip
gloves improve your grip
and help to protect your
hands.
THE POWER TOOL
For illustrations and definitions of the
power tool parts see the chapter on
"Main Parts."
Warning!
Never modify this power tool in any way.
Only attachments supplied by STIHL or
expressly approved by STIHL for use
with the specific STIHL model are
authorized. Although certain unauthorized attachments are useable with
STIHL power tools, their use may, in
fact, be extremely dangerous.
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 Work." 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 STIHL
servicing dealer.
Battery
Warning!
Risk of fire, explosion
and/or burns, including
chemical burns. Do not
disassemble, crush,
heat above 212 °F
(100 °C), expose to fire
or incinerate. Never expose the battery
to microwaves or high pressures.
Do not place the battery on or near fires,
stoves or in other high-temperature
locations. Do not place the battery in
direct sunlight or store it inside a vehicle
in hot weather. Doing so may cause the
battery to generate heat, rupture or
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MSA 160 C
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ignite. Using the batteries in this manner
may also result in a loss of performance
and a shortened life expectancy.
In case of fire: Stay clear of any vapors
or gases generated, taking wind
direction into account. If possible without
danger, remove battery from the vicinity
of the fire. In principle, cooling the
battery or extinguishing the fire with
water is possible. It is preferable to
extinguish the fire with a multipurpose
dry chemical fire extinguisher. As for any
fire, evacuate the area and fight the fire
from a safe distance. Once the fire has
been extinguished, the area should be
monitored (fire watch) in case of a flareup, until the battery has cooled
sufficiently. Restrict access to the area
until completion of clean-up. Do not
touch the burnt battery or any spilled
liquids. Use inert absorbent to absorb
spilled liquids.
Use and store the battery only within a
temperature range from
14 °F (-10 °C) and no
more than 122 °F
(+ 50 °C). Protect the battery from direct sunlight.
Warning!
Use STIHL batteries only with STIHL
power tools and charge them only with
STIHL chargers. Replace battery with
STIHL AP battery only. Use only original
STIHL rechargeable batteries.
Charge the battery before use.
Protect from rain – do not
immerse in fluids.
Warning!
Do not open, drop, hit or damage battery. Never insert objects into the
battery's cooling slots, since they may
damage the battery. The battery contains safety features and devices which,
if damaged, may cause the battery to
generate heat, rupture or ignite. Never
use or charge a defective, damaged,
cracked or deformed battery.
Immediately discontinue use of the
battery if, while using, charging or
storing, it emits an unusual smell, feels
hot or appears abnormal in any other
way.
Warning!
Fluid may leak from the battery if it is
damaged or is not used properly – avoid
contact with the skin! Leaking battery
fluid can cause skin irritation and chemical burns. In the event of accidental
contact, immediately rinse thoroughly
with mild soap and water. If fluid gets
into your eye(s), do not rub your eye(s)
but rinse water over the open eye(s) for
15 minutes at least. Also seek medical
attention immediately.
Warning!
Never bridge (short circuit) the battery
terminals with metallic objects, since
this may damage the battery and possibly cause a fire. Keep a battery that is
not in use away from metal objects (e.g.
nails, coins, jewelry). Do not use metal
containers for transporting batteries.
Store the battery out of reach of children
in a cool and dry area away from direct
sunlight and excess heat or cold (14 °F
– 122 °F (-10 °C – +50 °C)).
Charger
Use only original STIHL chargers.
Use only for charging geometrically
matching STIHL type AP batteries with a
maximum capacity of 10 Ah and a
maximum voltage of 42 V.
Never charge defective, leaking or
deformed batteries.
Connect the charger only to a power
supply with the voltage and frequency
specified on the rating plate. Always
connect the charger to a properly
installed wall outlet.
Never use a charger with damaged
housing, damaged power supply cord or
damaged plug. Do not operate the
charger if it has received a sharp blow,
been dropped or otherwise damaged in
any way.
Do not open or dissassemble charger –
no user serviceable parts inside.
Store charger out of the reach of
children.
MSA 160 C
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Protect the charger from
rain and dampness. Keep
charger dry.
Use and store charger
only indoors in dry rooms.
Operate charger at temperatures
between 41 °F (5 °C) and 104 °F
(40 °C).
Allow the charger to cool down normally
– do not cover it.
Never bridge the contacts of the charger
with metallic objects (e.g. nails, coins,
jewelry) – short circuit. The charger may
be damaged by a short circuit.
In the event of smoke or fire in the
charger, disconnect it from outlet
immediately.
Warning!
To reduce the risk of electric shock or
short circuit, do not insert any objects
into the charger's cooling slots.
Warning!
The charger heats up during the charging process. Do not operate on an easily
combustible surface (e.g. paper, texiles)
or in an easily combustible environment
– risk of fire.
Warning!
Do not operate in a hazardous location,
i.e. in a location where there are combustible liquids (fumes), vapors or
dusts. Chargers can produce sparks,
which may ignite the dust or vapors –
risk of explosion.
Check the charger's
power supply cord and
plug regularly for damage. If the power supply
cord or plug is damaged,
immediately disconnect
the plug from the wall
outlet to avoid the risk of
electric shock.
Never jerk the power supply cord to
disconnect it from the wall outlet. To
unplug, grasp the plug, not the cord.
Have a damaged power supply cord
repaired by an experienced electrician.
Do not use the power supply cord for
any other purpose, e.g. for carrying or
hanging up the charger.
Never use power supply cords that do
not comply with regulations.
Make sure the power supply cord is
located and/or marked so that it will not
be stepped on, tripped over, come in
contact with sharp edges or moving
parts or otherwise be subjected to
damage or stress.
An extension cord should not be used
unless absolutely necessary. If an
extension cord must be used, plug the
charger into a properly wired 16 gauge
(AWG 16) or heavier gauge extension
cord with blades that are the same
number, size and shapes as the blades
on the charger.
To reduce the risk of electric shock:
– Always connect the unit to a
properly installed wall outlet.
– Make sure the insulation of the
power supply cord and plug is in
good condition.
Unplug the power supply cord from the
outlet when charger is not in use.
Never store the battery in the charger.
THE USE OF THE POWER TOOL
Transporting the Power Tool
Warning!
To reduce the risk of injury from saw
chain contact, never carry or transport
your power tool with the saw chain moving. Always fully release the trigger
switch and make sure the chain has
stopped moving before putting the saw
down or carrying it. Always engage the
chain brake when taking more than a
few steps.
Warning!
Always switch off the motor, and fit the
chain guard (scabbard) over the chain
and guide bar, move front hand guard to
ƒ and remove the battery - even when
you carry the unit for short distances.
When transporting it in a vehicle, properly secure it to prevent turnover, chain
oil spillage and damage.
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MSA 160 C
Remove the battery from
3999BA024 KN
3999BA000 KN
the power tool. This
avoids the risk of the
motor starting
unintentionally.
It may be carried only in a horizontal
position. Grip the front handle in a
manner that the machine is balanced
horizontally. Keep the cutting
attachment behind you.
Before Starting Work
Take off the chain guard (scabbard) and
inspect the saw for proper condition and
operation. (See the maintenance chart
near the end of the instruction manual.)
Warning!
Always check your power tool for proper
condition and operation before starting,
particularly the trigger switch, trigger
switch lockout, front hand guard and
cutting tool. The trigger switch and the
trigger switch lockout must move freely
and always spring back to the idle position. Ensure that the trigger switch will
not engage when the trigger switch lockout is not pressed. Never attempt to
modify the controls or safety devices.
Warning!
Never operate your power tool if it is
damaged, improperly adjusted or maintained, or not completely or securely
assembled.
For proper assembly of the bar and
chain follow the procedure described in
the chapter "Mounting the Bar and
Chain" of your instruction manual.
STIHL Oilomatic chain, guide bar and
sprocket must match each other in
gauge and pitch. Before replacing any
bar and chain, see the chapter entitled
"Specifications" in the instruction
manual and the section "Kickback" and
the "ANSI B175.1-2000 chain saw
kickback standard" below.
Warning!
Proper tension of the chain is extremely
important. In order to avoid improper
setting, the tensioning procedure must
be followed as described in your manual. Always make sure the hexagonal
nut(s) for the sprocket cover is (are)
tightened securely after tensioning the
chain in order to secure the bar. Never
start the saw with the sprocket cover
loose. Check chain tension once more
after having tightened the nut(s) and
thereafter at regular intervals (whenever
the saw is shut off). If the chain
becomes loose while cutting, switch off
the motor, remove the battery and then
tighten. Never try to adjust the chain
while the motor is running!
English
Warning!
After adjusting a chain, start the saw, let
the motor run for a while, then switch
motor off and recheck chain tension.
Proper chain tension is very important at
all times.
Keep the handles clean and dry at all
times; it is particularly important to keep
them free of moisture, pitch, oil, grease
or resin in order for you to maintain a firm
grip and properly control your power
tool.
Check contacts in battery compartment
for foreign matter. Keep clean.
Fit the battery correctly – it must engage
audibly.
For specific starting instructions, see the
appropriate section of your instruction
manual.
During Operation
Holding and Controlling the Power
Tool
Always hold the unit firmly with both
hands on the handles while you are
working. Wrap your fingers and thumbs
around the handles.
Your right hand should grip the rear
handle. This also applies to left-handers.
With your hands in this position, you can
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001BA031 KN
001BA082 KN
best oppose and absorb the push, pull
and kickback forces of your saw without
losing control (see section on reactive
forces).
Warning!
To reduce the risk
of serious or fatal
injury to the operator or bystanders
from loss of control, never use the saw with one hand. It
is more difficult for you to control reactive forces and to prevent the bar and
chain from skating or bouncing along
the limb or log.
Warning!
To reduce the risk of cut injuries, keep
hands and feet away from the saw
chain. Never touch a moving saw chain
with your hand or any other part of your
body.
Warning!
Keep proper footing and balance at all
times. Special care must be taken in
slippery conditions (wet ground, snow)
and in difficult, overgrown terrain. Watch
for hidden obstacles such as tree
stumps, roots, rocks, holes and ditches
to avoid stumbling. There is increased
danger of slipping on freshly debarked
logs. For better footing, clear away
fallen branches, scrub and cuttings. Be
extremely cautious when working on
slopes or uneven ground.
Warning!
To reduce the risk of injury from loss of
control, never work on a ladder or any
other insecure support. Never hold the
machine above shoulder height. Do not
overreach.
Warning!
Never work in a tree unless you have
received specific, professional training
for such work, are properly secured
(such as tackle and harness system or a
lift bucket), have both hands free for
operating the chain saw in a cramped
environment and have taken proper precautions to avoid injury from falling
limbs or branches.
Position the chain saw in such a way
that your body is clear of the cutting
attachment whenever the motor is
running. Stand to the left of cut while
bucking.
Never put pressure on the saw when
reaching the end of a cut. The pressure
may cause the bar and rotating chain to
pop out of the cut or kerf, go out of
control and strike the operator or some
other object. If the rotating chain strikes
some other object, a reactive force may
cause the moving chain to strike the
operator.
Working Conditions
Operate your power tool only under
good visibility and daylight conditions
only. Work carefully.
Warning!
Your chain saw is a one-person
machine. Do not allow other persons in
the general work area, even when starting. Stop the motor immediately if you
are approached.
Warning!
Even though bystanders should be kept
away from the running saw, never work
alone. Keep within calling distance of
others in case help is needed.
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MSA 160 C
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Warning!
Be sure that the guide bar and chain are
clear of you and all other obstructions
and objects, including the ground. If the
upper quadrant of the tip of the bar
touches any object, it may cause kickback to occur (see section on reactive
forces). Never attempt to start the chain
saw when the guide bar is in a cut or
kerf.
Warning!
Use of this product (including sharpening the saw chain) can generate dust,
mist and fumes containing chemicals
that are known to cause respiratory
problems, cancer, birth defects, or other
reproductive harm. If you are unfamiliar
with the risks associated with the particular dust, mist or fume at issue, consult
your employer, governmental agencies
such as OSHA and NIOSH and other
sources on hazardous materials. California and some other authorities, for
instance, have published lists of substances known to cause cancer,
reproductive toxicity, etc.
Warning!
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
and other airborne contaminants, in particular 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), mists (such as oil mist from chain
lubrication) and fumes at the source
where possible. Use good work practices, such as always cutting with a
properly sharpened chain (which produces wood chips rather than fine dust)
and operating the unit so that the wind
or operating process directs any dust
raised by the power tool away from the
operator. Follow the recommendations
of EPA / OSHA / NIOSH and occupational and trade associations with
respect to dust ("particulate matter").
When the inhalation of dust cannot be
substantially controlled, i.e., kept at or
near the ambient (background) level,
the operator and any bystanders should
wear a respirator approved by NIOSH /
MSHA for the type of dust encountered.
Warning!
Breathing asbestos dust is dangerous
and can cause severe or fatal injury,
respiratory illness or cancer. The use
and disposal of asbestos-containing
products have been strictly regulated by
OSHA and the Environmental Protection Agency. If you have any reason to
believe that you might be cutting asbestos, immediately contact your employer
or a local OSHA representative.
Operating Instructions
In the event of an emergency, switch off
the motor immediately, move the front
hand guard to
ƒ and remove the
battery.
Warning!
The saw chain continues to move for a
short period after the trigger switch is
fully released.
Warning!
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. From time to
time, the catcher may be damaged or
removed. To reduce the risk of personal
injury, do not operate a chain saw with a
damaged or missing chain catcher.
MSA 160 C
Warning!
Your saw is not designed for prying or
shoveling away limbs, roots or other
objects. Such use could damage the
cutting attachment.
11
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001BA093 LÄ
001BA035 KN
Warning!
When sawing, make sure that the saw
chain does not touch any foreign materials such as rocks, fences, nails and the
like. Such objects may be flung off,
damage the saw chain or cause the saw
to kickback.
Check the cutting attachment at regular
short intervals during operation, or
immediately if there is a noticeable
change in cutting behavior:
– Switch off the motor.
– Move front hand guard to ƒ.
– Remove the battery.
– Check condition and tightness, look
for cracks.
The drive motor is not
waterproof. Never work
with the power tool in the
rain or in wet or very
damp locations.
Do not leave the machine outdoors in
the rain.
Danger!
Do not rely on the tool’s
insulation against electric
shock. To reduce the risk
of electrocution, never
operate this power tool in
the vicinity of any wires or
cables (power, etc.) which may be carrying electric current.
Reactive Forces Including Kickback
Warning!
Reactive forces may occur any time the
chain is rotating. Reactive forces can
cause serious personal injury.
The powerful force used to cut wood can
be reversed and work against the
operator. If the rotating chain is suddenly
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. Sudden
surprise contributes to accidents.
The most common reactive forces are:
– kickback,
– pushback,
– pull-in.
Kickback
Kickback may occur
when the moving saw
chain near the upper
quadrant of the bar nose
contacts a solid object or
is pinched.
The reaction of the cutting force of the
chain causes a rotational force on the
chain saw in the direction opposite to the
chain movement. This may fling the bar
up and back in a lightning fast reaction in
an uncontrolled arc mainly in the plane
of the bar. Under some cutting
circumstances the bar moves toward the
operator, who may suffer severe or fatal
injury.
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 saw. Many
factors influence the occurrence and
force of the kickback reaction. These
include chain speed, the speed at which
12
MSA 160 C
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001BA174 KN
the bar and chain contact the object, the
angle of contact, the condition of the
chain and other factors.
The type of bar and saw 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.
ANSI B175.1-2000 Chain Saw
Kickback Standard
§ 5.11 of ANSI standard B175.1-2000,
sets certain performance and design
criteria related to chain saw kickback,
which has been adopted for electric
chain saws in UL 1662 in § 30.
To comply with kickback § 30 of
UL 1662, electric chain saws
– 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.
The computer derived angles for electric
saws are measured by applying a
computer program to test results from
the kickback test machine.
Warning!
The computer derived angles of § 5.11
of ANSI B175.1-2000 may bear no relationship to actual kickback bar rotation
angles that may occur in real life cutting
situations.
In addition, features designed to reduce
kickback injuries may lose some of their
effectiveness when they are no longer in
their original condition, especially if they
have been improperly maintained.
Compliance with § 5.11 of ANSI
B175.1-2000 does not automatically
mean that in a real life kickback the bar
and chain will rotate at most 45°.
Warning!
In order for powerheads to comply with
the computed kickback angle requirements of § 30 of UL 1662 / § 5.11 of
ANSI B175.1-2000 use only the following cutting attachments:
– bar and chain combinations listed
as complying in the "Specifications"
section of the instruction manual or
– other replacement bar and chain
combinations marked in
accordance with the standard for
use on the powerhead or
– replacement chain designated "low
kickback saw chain.''
See the section on "Low kickback saw
chain and reduced kickback bars."
Devices for Reducing the Risk of
Kickback Injury
STIHL recommends the use of the
STIHL Quickstop chain brake on your
powerhead with green labeled reduced
kickback bars and low kickback chains.
Warning!
To reduce the risk of injury, never use a
saw if the chain brake does not function
properly. Take the saw to your local
STIHL servicing dealer. Do not use the
saw until the problem has been rectified.
STIHL Quickstop Chain Brake
STIHL has developed a chain stopping
system designed to reduce the risk of
injury in certain kickback situations. It is
called a Quickstop chain brake.
When a kickback occurs, the guide bar
may rotate around the front handle. If the
cutting position is such that the
operator’s left hand is gripping the front
handle behind the hand guard, and if the
left hand rotates around the front handle
and makes a sufficiently forceful contact
with the front hand guard, which is the
Quickstop activating lever, this contact
will activate a properly maintained
Quickstop chain brake.
MSA 160 C
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All STIHL chain saws are now equipped
with a Quickstop chain brake that can be
activated by inertia. If the forces of an
occurring kickback are sufficiently high,
the hand guard is accelerated toward
the bar nose even without hand contact.
See the chapter entitled "Chain Brake"
of your instruction manual.
Warning!
Never operate your chain saw without a
front hand guard. In a kickback situation
this guard helps protect your left hand
and other parts of your body. In addition,
removal of the hand guard on a saw
equipped with a Quickstop chain brake
will deactivate the chain brake.
Warning!
No Quickstop or other chain brake
device prevents kickback. These
devices are designed to reduce the risk
of kickback injury, if activated, in certain
kickback situations. In order for the
Quickstop to reduce the risk of kickback
injury, it must be properly maintained
and in good working order. See the
chapter of your instruction manual entitled "Chain Brake" and the section
"Maintenance, Repair and Storing" at
the end of these Safety Precautions. In
addition, there must be enough distance
between the bar and the operator to
ensure that the Quickstop has sufficient
time to activate and stop the chain
before potential contact with the
operator.
Warning!
An improperly maintained chain brake
may increase the time needed to stop
the chain after activation, or may not
activate at all.
Low Kickback Saw Chain and
Reduced Kickback Bars
STIHL offers a variety of 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 obtain higher
cutting efficiency or sharpening ease but
may result in higher kickback tendency.
STIHL has developed a color code
system to help you identify the STIHL
reduced kickback bars and low kickback
chains. Cutting attachments with green
warning decals or green labels on the
packaging are designed to reduce the
risk of kickback injury. The matching of
green decaled powerheads with green
labeled bars and green labeled chains
gives compliance with the computed
kickback angle requirements of § 30 of
UL 1662 / ANSI B175.1-2000 when the
products are in their original condition.
Products with yellow decals or labels are
for users with extraordinary cutting
needs and 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 STIHL Quickstop chain brake
for both experienced and
inexperienced chain saw users.
Please ask your STIHL dealer to
properly match your powerhead with the
appropriate bar/chain combination to
reduce the risk of kickback injury. Green
labeled bars and chains are
recommended for all powerheads. See
your "STIHL Bar and Chain Information"
leaflet for details.
Warning!
Use of other, non-listed bar/chain combinations may increase kickback forces
and increase the risk of kickback injury.
New bar/chain combinations may be
developed after publication of this literature, which will, in combination with
certain electric chain saws, comply with
§ 30 of UL 1662 / § 5.11 of ANSI
B175.1-2000. Check with your STIHL
dealer for such combinations.
Warning!
Reduced kickback bars and low kickback chains do not prevent kickback,
but they are designed to reduce the risk
of kickback injury. They are available
from your STIHL dealer.
Warning!
Even if your saw is equipped with a
Quickstop, a reduced kickback bar
and/or low kickback chain, this does not
eliminate the risk of injury by kickback.
Therefore, always observe all safety
precautions to avoid kickback
situations.
Low Kickback Chain
Some types of saw chains have
specially designed components to
reduce the force of nose contact
kickback. STIHL has developed low
kickback chains for your powerhead.
14
MSA 160 C
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001BA037 KN
A
"Low kickback saw chain" is a chain
which has met the kickback
performance requirements of § 5.11.2.4
of ANSI B175.1-2000 (GasolinePowered Chain Saws–Safety
Requirements) when tested in its
original condition on a selected
representative sample of chain saws
below 3.8 cubic inches (62 cm³)
displacement specified in ANSI
B175.1-2000.
Warning!
There are potential powerhead and bar
combinations with which low kickback
saw chains can be used which have not
been specifically certified to comply with
the 45° computer derived kickback
angle of § 5.11 of ANSI B175.1-2000.
Some low kickback chains have not
been tested with all powerhead and bar
combinations.
Warning!
A dull or improperly sharpened chain
may reduce or negate the effects of the
design features intended to reduce kickback energy. Improper lowering or
sharpening of the depth gauges or
shaping of the cutters may increase the
chance and the potential energy of a
kickback. Always cut with a properly
sharpened chain.
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!
When used with other, more aggressive
chains, these bars may be less effective
in reducing kickback.
Warning!
For a properly balanced saw and in
order to comply with § 5.12.1 of ANSI
B175.1-2000, use only bar lengths listed
in the specifications chapter of the
instruction manual for your chain saw
powerhead.
Bow Guides
Warning!
Do not mount a bow guide on any
STIHL chain saw. Any chain saw
equipped 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.
Low kickback chains will not significantly reduce the risk of kickback injury
when used on a bow guide.
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 with both
hands and maintain a secure grip.
Don’t let go.
2. Be aware of the location of the guide
bar nose at all times.
3. Never let the nose of the guide bar
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 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
reentering a previous cut.
9. Do not attempt to plunge cut if you
are not experienced with these
cutting techniques.
10. Be alert for shifting of the log or
other forces that may cause the cut
to close and pinch the chain.
11. Maintain saw chain properly. Cut
with a correctly sharpened, properly
tensioned chain at all times.
12. Stand to the side of the cutting path
of the chain saw.
A = Pull-in
Pull-in occurs when the chain on the
bottom of the bar is suddenly stopped
when it is pinched, caught or encounters
MSA 160 C
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English
001BA038 KN
B
a foreign object in the wood. The
reaction of the chain pulls the saw
forward and may cause the operator to
lose control.
Pull-in frequently 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.
Warning!
Use extreme caution when cutting small
size brush and saplings which may easily catch the chain, be whipped toward
you or pull you off balance.
To Avoid Pull-in
1. Always start a cut with the chain
rotating at full speed and the
bumper spike in contact with the
wood.
2. The risk of pull-in may also be
reduced by using wedges to open
the kerf or cut.
B = Pushback
Pushback occurs when the chain on the
top of the bar is suddenly stopped 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 and
may cause loss of saw control.
Pushback frequently occurs when the
top of the bar is used for cutting.
To Avoid Pushback
1. Be alert to forces or situations that
may cause material to pinch the top
of the chain.
2. Do not cut more than one log at a
time.
3. Do not twist the saw when
withdrawing the bar from a plunge
cut or underbuck cut because the
chain can pinch.
Cutting Techniques
These general instructions apply to all
chain saws. As stated above, however,
STIHL recommends against the use of
your cordless electric chain saw for
cutting trees, logs or branches having a
diameter of more than 8 inches.
Warning!
For cutting larger trees, logs or
branches, a more powerful, faster
and/or steady cut may be necessary to
reduce the risk of binding, stalling or a
change in conditions during a longer
cutting time that could lead to a loss of
control of the object being cut and serious personal injury.
Felling
Felling is cutting down a tree.
The cordless chain saw is of only limited
suitability for felling and limbing.
If, however, a tree is to be felled and
limbed with a cordless chain saw, it is
imperative to observe the following
instructions.
Before felling a tree, consider carefully
all conditions which may affect the
direction of fall.
Warning!
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 structure, wood structure, decay,
snow load, etc. To reduce the risk of
severe or fatal injury to yourself or others, look for these conditions prior to
beginning the cut, and be alert for a
change in direction while the tree is
falling.
Warning!
Always observe the general condition of
the tree. Inexperienced users should
never attempt to cut trees that are
decayed or rotted inside or that are
leaning or otherwise under tension.
There is an increased risk that such
trees could snap or split while being cut
and cause serious or fatal injury to the
operator or bystanders. Also look for
broken or dead branches which could
vibrate loose and fall on the operator.
When felling on a slope, the operator
should stand on the uphill side if
possible.
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001BA088 LÄ
2
/
1
2
1 1
/
1
2
B
001BA040 KN
A
45°
45°
B
001BA146 KN
001BA143 KN
C
C
Felling Instructions
When felling, maintain a distance of at
least 2 1/2 tree lengths from the nearest
person.
When felling in the vicinity of roads,
railways and power lines, etc., take extra
precautions. Inform the police, utility
company or railway authority before
beginning to cut.
Warning!
The noise of your chain saw may drown
any warning call.
Escape Path
First clear the tree base and work area
from interfering limbs and brush and
clean its lower portion with an ax.
Then, establish two paths of escape (B)
and remove all obstacles. These paths
should be generally opposite to the
planned direction of the fall of the tree
(A) and about at a 45° angle. Place all
tools and equipment a safe distance
away from the tree, but not on the
escape paths.
Buttress Roots
If the tree has large buttress roots, cut
into the largest buttress vertically first
(horizontally next) and remove the
resulting piece.
Conventional Cut
MSA 160 C
Felling notch (C) – determines the
direction of the fall
For a conventional cut:
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001BA150 KN
001BA144 KN
D
D
N Properly place felling notch
perpendicular to the line of fall,
close to the ground.
N Cut down at approx. 45° angle to a
depth of about 1/5 to 1/4 of the trunk
diameter.
N Make second cut horizontal.
N Remove resulting 45° piece.
Open-face Technique
Felling notch (C) – determines the
direction of the fall
For an open-face cut:
N Properly place felling notch
perpendicular to the line of fall,
close to the ground.
N Cut down at approx. 50° angle to a
depth of approx.1/5 to 1/4 of the
trunk diameter.
N Make second cut from below at
approx. 40 degree angle.
N Remove resulting 90° piece.
Making Sapwood Cuts
N For medium sized or larger trees
make cuts at both sides of the trunk,
at same height as subsequent
felling cut.
N Cut to no more than width of guide
bar.
This is especially important in softwood
in summer – it helps prevent sapwood
splintering when the tree falls.
D =Felling Cut
Conventional and open-face technique:
N Begin 1 to 2 inches (2,5 to 5 cm)
higher than center of felling notch.
N Cut horizontally toward the felling
notch.
N Leave approx.1/10 of diameter
uncut. This is the hinge.
N Do not cut through the hinge – you
could lose control of the direction of
the fall.
Drive wedges into the felling cut where
necessary to control the fall.
Warning!
If the tip of the bar contacts a wedge, it
may cause kickback. Wedges should be
of wood or plastic – never steel, which
can damage the chain.
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MSA 160 C
English
001BA145 KN
E
E
001BA147 KN
001BA148 KN
1
E = Hinge
N Helps control the falling tree.
N Do not cut through the hinge – you
could lose control of the direction of
the fall.
Felling Cut for Small Diameter Trees:
Simple Fan Cut
Engage the bumper spikes of the chain
saw directly behind the location of the
intended hinge and pivot the saw around
this point only as far as the hinge. The
bumper spike rolls against the trunk.
Felling Cut for Large Diameter Trees
Warning!
Felling a tree that has a diameter
greater than the length of the guide bar
requires use of either the sectioning felling cut or plunge-cut method. These
methods are 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.
Sectioning Method
For the sectioning method make the first
part of the felling cut with the guide bar
fanning in toward the hinge. Then, using
the bumper spike as a pivot, reposition
the saw for the next cut.
MSA 160 C
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4
2
Avoid repositioning the saw more than
necessary. When repositioning for the
next cut, keep the guide bar fully
engaged in the kerf to keep the felling
cut straight. If the saw begins to pinch,
insert a wedge to open the cut. On the
last cut, do not cut the hinge.
Plunge-cut Method
Timber having a diameter more than
twice the length of the guide bar requires
the use of the plunge-cut method before
making the felling cut.
First, cut a large, wide felling notch.
Make a plunge cut in the center of the
notch.
The plunge cut is made with the guide
bar nose. 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 speed, insert the
guide bar in the trunk.
Enlarge the plunge cut as shown in the
illustration.
Warning!
There is an extreme danger of kickback at this point. Extra caution must
be taken to maintain control of the
saw. To make the felling cut, follow
the sectioning method described
previously.
If you are inexperienced with a chain
saw, plunge-cutting should not be
attempted. Seek the help of a
professional.
Warning!
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
toward the operator (barber-chairing),
or the tree may jump backwards off the
stump. Always keep to the side of the
falling tree. When the tree starts to fall,
withdraw the bar, switch off the motor
and walk away on the preplanned
escape path. Watch out for falling limbs.
Warning!
Be extremely careful with partially fallen
trees which are poorly supported. When
the tree hangs or for some other reason
does not fall completely, set the saw
aside and pull the tree down with a
cable winch, block and tackle or tractor.
If you try to cut it down with your saw,
you may be injured.
Limbing
Limbing is removing the branches from a
fallen tree.
Warning!
There is an extreme danger of kickback
during the limbing operation. Do not
work with the nose of the bar. Be
extremely cautious and avoid contacting the log or other limbs with the nose
of the guide bar.
20
MSA 160 C
Do not stand on a log while limbing it –
001BA033 KN
001BA051 LÄ
1
001BA151 KN
2
1
001BA152 KN
2
you may slip or the log may roll.
Start limbing by leaving the lower limbs
to support the log off the ground. When
underbucking freely hanging limbs, a
pinch may result or the limb may fall,
causing loss of control. If a pinch occurs,
switch off the motor, move front hand
guard to ƒ, remove the battery and
remove the saw by lifting the limb.
Warning!
Be extremely cautious when cutting
limbs or logs under tension (spring
poles). The limbs or logs could spring
back toward the operator and cause
loss of control of the saw and severe or
fatal injury to the operator.
Bucking
Bucking is cutting a log into sections.
Warning!
When bucking, do not stand on the log.
Make sure the log will not roll downhill. If
on a slope, stand on the uphill side of
the log. Watch out for rolling logs.
Cut only one log at a time.
Shattered wood should be cut very
carefully. Sharp slivers of wood may be
caught and flung in the direction of the
operator of the saw.
When cutting small logs, place log
through "V" – shaped supports on top of
a sawhorse. Never permit another
person to hold the log. Never hold the
log with your leg or foot.
English
Logs under strain:
Risk of pinching! Always start relieving
cut (1) at compression side.Then make
bucking cut (2) at tension side. If the saw
pinches, stop the motor and remove it
from the log.
Only properly trained professionals
should work in an area where the logs,
limbs and roots are tangled. Working in
"blow down" areas is extremely
hazardous. Drag the logs into a clear
area before cutting. Pull out exposed
and cleared logs first.
MAINTENANCE, REPAIR AND
STORING
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.
MSA 160 C
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English
Warning!
Use only identical STIHL replacement
parts for maintenance and repair. Use of
non-STIHL parts may cause serious or
fatal injury.
Strictly follow the maintenance and
repair instructions in the appropriate
section of your instruction manual.
Please also refer to the maintenance
chart in this manual.
Always switch off the
motor, move front hand
guard to ƒ, remove the
battery from the power
tool and make sure that
the cutting tool is stopped
before carrying out any
maintenance or repair
work, such as replacing
the cutting attachment, or
cleaning the power tool.
This avoids the risk of the
motor starting
unintentionally.
Warning!
Do not attempt any maintenance or
repair work not described in your
instruction manual. Have such work performed by your STIHL servicing dealer
only.
Wear gloves when handling or
performing maintenance on saw chains.
Keep the chain, bar and sprocket clean;
replace worn sprockets or chains. Keep
the chain sharp. You can spot a dull
chain when easy-to-cut wood becomes
hard to cut and burn marks appear on
the wood. Keep the chain at proper
tension.
Always replace the chain, guide bar and
sprocket as necessary.
Tighten all nuts, bolts and screws after
each use.
Warning!
In order for the chain brake on your
STIHL chain saw to properly perform its
function of reducing the risk of kickback
and other injuries, it must be properly
maintained. Like an automobile brake, a
chain saw chain brake incurs wear each
time it is engaged.
The amount of wear will vary depending
upon 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.
For the proper and effective operation of
the chain brake, the brake band and
chain sprocket drum must be kept free of
dirt, grease and other foreign matter
which may reduce friction of the band on
the drum.
For these reasons, each STIHL chain
saw should be returned to trained
personnel such as your STIHL servicing
dealer for periodic inspection and
servicing of the brake system according
to the following schedule:
Heavy usage – every three months,
Moderate usage – twice a year,
Occasional usage – annually.
The chain saw should also be returned
immediately for maintenance whenever
the brake system cannot be thoroughly
cleaned or there is a change in its
operating characteristics.
Regularly check the electrical contacts
and ensure that the insulation of the
power cord and plug of the charger is in
good condition and shows no sign of
aging (brittleness).
Electrical components, e.g. power cord
of charger, may only be repaired or
replaced by a qualified electrician.
Keep the battery guides free from
foreign matter – clean as necessary.
Do not spray the machine with water.
Do not clean your machine with a
pressure washer. The solid jet of water
may damage parts of the machine.
Clean plastic components with a cloth.
Do not use aggressive detergents. They
may damage the plastic.
Store chain saw in a dry, locked location
with the front hand guard on ƒ, the
battery removed and out of reach of
children (see chapter "Storing the
Machine" in the instruction manual).
22
MSA 160 C
English
001BA191 KN
1
2
3
a
t = a : 2
1
3999BA001 KN
3
2
1
3999BA029 KN
Description of Operation Cutting Attachment
The power tool is operated with a
rechargeable battery. Use only STIHL
chargers to recharge the battery.
Data exchange
The power tool, battery and charger
communicate with each other. The
charger charges the battery and the
battery supplies the necessary power
only if data exchange functions properly.
For this reason you should operate your
power tool only with the approved STIHL
batteries and STIHL chargers.
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.
– 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.
Mounting the Bar and
Chain (quick chain
tensioner)
Removing the chain sprocket cover
N Set hand guard to ƒ
N Remove the battery from the
machine
N Swing grip (1) into position (until it
engages)
N Turn the wing nut (2) to the left until
it hangs loosely in the chain
sprocket cover (3)
N Remove chain sprocket cover (3)
Mounting the tensioning gear
N Remove and reverse tensioning
gear (1)
MSA 160 C
23
English
2310BA015 KN
2
1
3
2310BA016 KN
2
2310BA017 KN
3999BA010 KN
1
181BA012 KN
2
3
181BA013 KN
3999BA004 KN
N Remove screw (2)
N Position tensioning gear (1) and
guide bar (3) relative to one another
Releasing the chain brake
N Pull hand guard towards the front
handle until it engages audibly and
the hand guard is in the position ‚
– chain brake is released
Fitting the saw chain
N Fit the saw chain – starting at the
nose of the guide bar – pay attention
to the position of the tensioning gear
and the cutting edges
N Turn tensioning gear (1) to the right
as far as possible
N Turn the guide bar so that the
tensioning gear faces the user
N Place the saw chain on the chain
sprocket (2)
N Slide the guide bar over the collar
screw (3); the head of the rear collar
screw must protrude into the oblong
hole
N Insert and tighten screw (2)
24
N Guide the drive link into the bar
groove (arrow) and turn the
tensioning gear to the left as far as
possible
Put on protective gloves – risk of
injury by the sharp cutters
MSA 160 C
English
3999BA005 KN
4
5
3999BA006 KN
2
1
3999BA007 KN
3999BA008 KN
N Fit chain sprocket cover, sliding the
guide lugs into the engine housing
openings
When fitting the chain sprocket cover,
the teeth of the adjusting wheel and the
tensioning gear must mesh; if
necessary,
N turn the adjusting wheel (4) a little
until the chain sprocket cover can
be slid completely against the
engine housing
N Swing grip (5) into position (until it
engages)
N Fit wing nut and tighten lightly
N Go to chapter "Tensioning the saw
chain"
Tensioning the Saw Chain
(quick chain tensioner)
For retensioning during operation:
N Remove the battery from the
machine
N Fold out the wings of the wing nut
and loosen the wing nut
N Turn the adjusting wheel (1) to the
right as far as possible
N Tighten the wing nut (2) by hand
N Fold in the wings of the wing nut
N Next step: Continue with "Check
chain tension"
A new saw chain must be retensioned
more frequently than one that has been
in use already for an extended period!
N Check chain tension frequently –
see "Operating Instructions"
Checking Chain Tension
N Remove the battery from the
machine
N Put on protective gloves
N Pull hand guard towards the front
handle until it engages audibly and
the hand guard is in the position ‚
– chain brake is released
N The saw chain must lie against the
bottom of the bar and it must be
possible to pull it across the guide
bar by hand
N if necessary, retension saw chain
A new saw chain must be retensioned
more frequently than one that has been
in use already for an extended period.
N Check chain tension frequently, see
"Operating Instructions"
MSA 160 C
25
English
3999BA011 KN
001BA218 KN
001BA219 KN
001BA224 KN
Chain Lubricant
For automatic and reliable lubrication of
the chain and guide bar – use only a
quality, environmentally compatible
chain and bar lubricant – preferably the
rapidly biodegradable STIHL Bioplus.
Biological chain oil must be
sufficiently resistant to aging
(e. g., STIHL Bioplus). Oil with a
low resistance to aging tends to
turn to resin quickly. This results in
hard deposits that are difficult to
remove, especially in the area of
the chain drive and on the saw
chain – .possibly even causing 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 oil.
Do not use waste oil! Prolonged
and repeated contact with waste
oil can cause skin cancer. It also
harms the environment!
Waste oil does not have the
necessary lubricant properties
and is unsuitable for chain
lubrication.
Filling Chain Oil Tank
N Check oil level before starting work,
while sawing, and each time the
battery is changed
N Refill chain oil at the latest every
second time the battery is changed
If the oil tank is still partly full, the reason
may be a problem in the oil supply
system: Check chain lubrication, clean
the oil passages, contact your servicing
dealer for assistance if necessary.
STIHL recommends that all
maintenance and repairs be carried out
by STIHL servicing dealers
Oil filler cap
Opening
N Raise the grip into an upright
position.
N Turn the cap counterclockwise
(approx. 1/4 turn).
26
N Thoroughly clean the filler cap and
the area around it to ensure that no
dirt falls into the tank
N Always position the machine so that
the filler cap is facing upwards
N Remove oil filler cap.
Filling Chain Oil Tank
Take care not to spill chain oil during
refilling and do not overfill the tank.
N Refill the chain oil tank
MSA 160 C
English
001BA220 KN
001BA221 KN
001BA222 KN
001BA223 KN
001BA225 KN
001BA227 KN
001BA226 KN
Closing
With grip in an upright position:
N Insert the cap – positioning marks
on the cap and the chain oil tank
opening must line up.
N The cap should drop fully into the
opening in this position.
N While pressing the cap down, twist it
firmly clockwise as far as it will go
(approx. 1/4 turn).
N Fold down the grip.
Checking for proper closure
N The lug on the grip must engage
entirely in the recess (arrow), and
the grip must lie completely flush
with the top of the cap.
N Grip the cap and check for
tightness.
N If the cap can be moved, it is not
properly installed.
Misalignment of the cap parts
N If the cap does not drop fully into the
opening when the positioning marks
line up and/or if the cap does not
tighten properly when twisted, the
base of the cap may be rotated out
of position vis-à-vis the top.
N Such misalignment can result from
handling, cleaning or an improper
attempt at tightening.
Left: Base of improperly aligned
cap (with open space)
Right: Base of cap correctly posi-
tioned for installation
N To correct a misalignment, turn the
cap (with the grip up) until it drops
fully into the tank opening.
N Twist the cap counterclockwise as
far as it will go (approx. 1/4 turn) –
this will twist the base of the cap into
the correct position.
N Twist the cap clockwise, closing it
normally – see the sections
"Closing" and "Checking for proper
closure."
N If your cap still does not tighten
properly, it may be damaged or
broken; immediately stop use of the
unit and take it to your authorized
STIHL dealer for repair.
MSA 160 C
27
English
143BA024 KN
2
1
3999BA014 KN
3999BA009 KN
3999BA010 KN
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".
Coasting Brake
The coasting brake stops the rotating
saw chain when the trigger switch is
released.
1 Coasting brake inactive
2 Coasting brake active
Chain Brake
Locking chain with chain brake
– in an emergency
The chain is stopped and locked when
the hand guard is pushed toward the bar
nose by the left hand – or when brake is
activated by inertia in certain kickback
situations.
Releasing the chain brake
N Pull the hand guard back towards
the front handle
The chain brake is designed to be
activated also by the inertia of the
front hand guard if the forces are
sufficiently high. The hand guard is
accelerated toward the bar nose - even
if your left hand is not behind the hand
28
MSA 160 C
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