STIHL MSA 161 T
Instruction Manual
Manual de instrucciones
WARNING
Read Instruction Manual thoroughly before use and
follow all safety precautions – improper use can cause
serious or fatal injury.
ADVERTENCIA
Antes de usar la máquina lea y siga todas las precauciones
de seguridad dadas en el manual de instrucciones – el uso
incorrecto puede causar lesiones graves o mortales.
WARNING
To reduce the risk of kickback injury use
STIHL reduced kickback bar and STIHL low
kickback chain as specified in this manual or
other available low kickback components.
ADVERTENCIA
Para reducir el riesgo de lesionarse como
resultado de un culatazo, utilice la barra y la
cadena de contragolpe reducido de la forma
especificada en este manual o de otros
componentes reductores de contragolpe.
Instruction Manual
1 - 61
Manual de instrucciones
62 - 128
Contents
English
1 Introduction
2 Guide to Using this Manual
2.1 Signal Words
2.2 Symbols in Text
3 Main Parts
3.1 Chain Saw and Battery
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4 Safety Symbols on the Products
4.1 Chain Saw
Original Instruction ManualPrinted on chlorine-free paper
4.2 Battery
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5 General Power Tool Safety Warnings
5.1 Introduction
5.2 Work Area Safety
5.3 Electrical Safety
5.4 Personal Safety
5.5 Power Tool Use and Care
5.6 Battery Tool Use and Care
5.7 Service
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5.8 General Chain Saw Safety Warnings
5.9 Causes and Operator Prevention of Kickback
6 IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS
6.1 Intended Use
6.2 Operator
6.3 Personal Protective Equipment
Printing inks contain vegetable oils, paper can be recycled.
6.4 Chain Saw
6.5 Using the Chain Saw
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7 Kickback and Other Reactive Forces
7.1 Reactive Forces
7.2 Kickback
7.3 Pull-in
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7.4 Pushback
8 Basic Working Technique
8.1 Intended Uses
8.2 Pruning
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8.3 Cutting Branches under Tension
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8.4 Blocking - Removing Sections from a Standing
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Tree
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9 Battery Safety
9.1 Warnings and Instructions
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10 Maintenance, Repair and Storage
10.1 Warnings and Instructions
11 Before Starting Work
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11.1 Preparing the Chain Saw for Operation
12 Charging the Battery
12.1 Setting up the Charger
12.2 Charging
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13 LED Diagnostics and Acoustic Signals
13.1 STIHL AP Battery
13.2 STIHL AR Backpack Battery
14 STIHL AR L Backpack Battery
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14.1 Adjusting the Battery Harness to Suit the
Operator’s Height
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14.2 Positioning the Connecting Cord
14.3 Putting on the Harness
15 STIHL AR Backpack Battery
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15.1 Positioning and Adjusting the Connecting Cord
15.2 Putting on the Harness
16 Assembling the Chain Saw
16.1 Cutting Attachment
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16.2 Mounting and Removing the Guide Bar and
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Chain
16.3 Tensioning the Chain
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16.4 Lubricating the Saw Chain and Guide Bar
17 The Chain Brake
17.1 Engaging the Chain Brake
17.2 Disengaging the Chain Brake
17.3 Maintaining the Chain Brake
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© ANDREAS STIHL AG & Co. KG 2020
0458-791-8621-C. VA2.G20.
0000008689_004_GB
0458-791-8621-C
This instruction manual is protected by copyright. All rights reserved, especially the rights to reproduce, translate and process
with electronic systems.
1
English
Contents
18 Inserting and Removing the Battery
18.1 Inserting the Battery
18.2 Removing the Battery
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19 Switching the Chain Saw On and Off
19.1 Switching On
19.2 Switching Off
20 Checking the Chain Saw
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20.1 Checking the Operation of the Chain Brake
20.2 Testing the Controls
20.3 Testing Chain Lubrication
21 After Finishing Work
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21.1 Preparing for Transportation or Storage
22 Transporting the Chain Saw and Battery
22.1 Chain Saw
22.2 Battery
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23 Storing the Chain Saw and Battery
23.1 Chain Saw
23.2 Battery
24 Cleaning
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24.1 Cleaning the Chain Saw and Battery
24.2 Cleaning the Guide Bar and Saw Chain
25 Inspection and Maintenance
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25.1 Inspecting and Maintaining the Chain Saw
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25.2 Inspecting and Maintaining the Chain Sprocket
25.3 Inspecting and Maintaining the Guide Bar
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25.4 Inspecting, Maintaining and Sharpening the Saw
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Chain
26 Troubleshooting Guide
26.1 Chain Saw and Battery
27 Specifications
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27.1 STIHL MSA 161 T
27.2 Chain Sprockets
27.3 Minimum Groove Depth of Guide Bars
27.4 Depth Gauge Setting
27.5 Symbols on the Chain Saw
27.6 Engineering Improvements
27.7 FCC 15 Compliance Statement
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28 Combinations of Guide Bars and Saw Chains
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28.1 STIHL MSA 161 T
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29 Replacement Parts and Equipment
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29.1 Genuine STIHL Replacement Parts
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30 Disposal
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30.1 Disposal of the Power Tool
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30.2 Battery Recycling
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31 Limited Warranty
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31.1 STIHL Incorporated Limited Warranty Policy
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32 Trademarks
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32.1 Registered Trademarks
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32.2 Common Law Trademarks
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33 Addresses
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33.1 STIHL Incorporated
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2
0458-791-8621-C
1 Introduction
English
1Introduction
Thank you for your purchase. The information contained in
this manual will help you receive maximum performance and
satisfaction from your STIHL chain saw and, if followed,
reduce the risk of injury from its use.
This lightweight, top-handle chain saw is designed
specifically for in-tree operation by arborists and other tree
care professionals. Its compact design makes it particularly
useful for in-tree maintenance, tree surgery and other
cutting work in confined spaces where greater
maneuverability is required. For cutting work at ground level,
use a traditional rear-handle chain saw with a wider handle
configuration for greater control.
SAVE THIS MANUAL!
Because a chain saw is a high-speed woodcutting tool, special safety precautions must be
observed to reduce the risk of personal injury.
Read this instruction manual thoroughly before
use and periodically thereafter. Follow all safety
precautions. Careless or improper use of the
chain saw can cause serious or fatal injury.
This top-handle chain saw is designed
for professional, in-tree use only.
Operators must be trained in special intree cutting and working techniques
and properly secured at all times (for
example, in a lift bucket or secured
properly with ropes and a safety
harness).
including training in the use of the safety equipment and
other climbing equipment, such as harnesses, ropes, belts,
climbing irons, snap hooks, carabiners, etc.
Have your authorized STIHL servicing dealer show you how
to operate your chain saw. All safety precautions that are
generally observed when working with an axe or a hand saw
also apply to the operation of chain saws. Observe all
applicable federal, state and local safety regulations,
standards and ordinances.
Do not lend or rent your chain saw without this instruction
manual. Allow only persons who have the proper training
and fully understand the information in this manual to
operate the chain saw.
For further information, or if you do not understand any of
the instructions in this manual, please go to
www.stihlusa.com or contact your authorized STIHL
servicing dealer.
2 Guide to Using this Manual
2.1 Signal Words
This manual contains safety information that requires your
special attention. Such information is introduced with the
following symbols and signal words:
DANGER
Indicates a hazardous situation that, if not avoided, will
result in death or serious injury.
WARNING
Indicates a hazardous situation that, if not avoided, could
result in death or serious injury.
WARNING
Operating this chain saw in a tree requires special working
techniques, which must be observed to reduce the risk of
personal injury. Never work in a tree unless you have
received specific, professional training for such work,
0458-791-8621-C
NOTICE
Indicates a risk of property damage, including damage to the
machine or its individual components.
3
English
3 Main Parts
2.2 Symbols in Text
The following symbol is included to assist you with the use
of the manual:
Refers to a designated chapter or sub-chapter in this
instruction manual.
3Main Parts
3.1 Chain Saw and Battery
#
7
8
9
10
1
2
4
11
12
13
14
20
15
16
#
17
18
19
1 Chain Sprocket
Drives the saw chain.
2 Tensioning Gear
Shifts the guide bar and tensions or loosens the saw
chain.
3
5
6
21
22
3 Bumper Spike
Helps hold the saw steady against the wood during
cutting.
4 Chain Catcher
Helps contain the saw chain and reduce the risk of
operator contact in the event the chain breaks or comes
off the bar.
5 Guide Bar
Supports and guides the saw chain.
6Saw Chain
Toothed cutting tool consisting of cutters, tie straps and
drive links.
7 Chain Sprocket Cover
Covers the chain sprocket.
8Nut
Tightens the chain sprocket cover.
9 Chain Scabbard
Covers the guide bar and saw chain to reduce the risk of
injury from inadvertent contact during transportation and
storage.
10 Front Hand Guard
Helps protect the operator's left hand from projecting
branches and contact with the saw chain. Serves as the
activation lever for the chain brake.
11 Ergo-Lever
Holds the trigger switch lockout in the unlocked position.
12 Trigger Switch Lockout
Prevents activation of the trigger switch until depressed.
13 Control Handle
0000-GXX-6260-A0
Handle for the operator's right hand.
14 Locking Lever
Secures the battery in the battery compartment.
15 Battery Compartment
Holds the battery.
16 Oil Filler Cap
Closes and seals the oil tank.
4
0458-791-8621-C
4 Safety Symbols on the Products
English
17 Front Handle
Handle for the operator's left hand.
18 Trigger Switch
Switches the motor on and off.
19 Ring
For carrying the chain saw on your waist belt or a rope.
20 Battery
Supplies electrical power to the motor.
21 Push Button
Activates the battery's LEDs.
22 Battery LEDs
Indicate the battery's state of charge and display error
messages regarding potential malfunctions in the battery
or power tool.
# Rating Plate
Contains electrical information and the product's serial
number.
4 Safety Symbols on the Products
4.1 Chain Saw
The following safety symbols are found on the chain saw:
To reduce the risk of injury, follow the specified
safety precautions.
To reduce the risk of injuries, wear the type of
overalls, long pants or chaps that contain pads of
cut-retardant material, if feasible depending on
the individual application, @ 6.3.
To reduce the risk of serious or fatal
injuries to the operator or bystanders
from loss of control, always hold the
chain saw firmly with both hands when
you are working, @ 6.5.2.
Avoid contact of the bar tip with any object. This
can cause the bar to kick suddenly up and back,
which may result in serious or fatal injury. Always
use two hands to operate the saw, @ 7.
To reduce the risk of injury or property damage
from unintended activation, remove the battery
any time the saw is not in use, @ 6.5.
Designed for professional, in-tree use
only. Operators must be trained in
special in-tree cutting and working
techniques and properly secured at all
times, @ 6.1.
4.2 Battery
The following safety symbols are found on the AR series
backpack battery and the AP series battery:
To reduce the risk of injury, follow the specified
safety precautions.
Read and follow all safety precautions in the
instruction manual. Improper use can lead to
serious or fatal personal injury or property
damage.
To reduce the risk of eye and head injury, always
wear proper eye protection and an approved
protective helmet, @ 6.3.
0458-791-8621-C
Read and follow all safety precautions in the
battery's instruction manual and the manual for
the STIHL tool powered by this battery. Improper
use can lead to serious or fatal personal injury or
property damage.
5
English
5 General Power Tool Safety Warnings
To reduce the risk of personal injury or property
damage from fire, explosion or burns, including
chemical burns, do not disassemble, crush,
drop, damage or heat above 212 °F (100 °C).
Never expose to fire or incinerate, @ 9.
To reduce the risk of personal injury or property
damage from fire, use and store only within an
ambient temperature range of 14 °F to
122 °F (- 10 °C to 50 °C), @ 9.
AR 900, 1000, 2000, 3000 Backpack Batteries
To reduce the risk of personal injury or property
damage from a short circuit, fire or explosion,
keep dry. Protect from rain, water, liquids and
damp conditions. Never immerse in water or
other liquids, @ 9.
AR L Backpack Batteries
To reduce the risk of personal injury or property
damage from a short circuit, fire or explosion,
keep dry. Never immerse in water or other
liquids, @ 9.
AP Series Batteries
To reduce the risk of personal injury or property
damage from a short circuit, fire or explosion,
keep dry. Never immerse in water or other
liquids, @ 9.
Batteries sold separately.
5 General Power Tool Safety Warnings
5.1 Introduction
This chapter contains the prescribed general safety
warnings and instructions for handheld, motor-operated
electric power tools and motor-operated electric chain saws.
Additional important warnings and instructions are provided
in subsequent chapters of this manual.
WARNING
￭ Read all safety warnings, instructions, illustrations and
specifications provided with this power tool. Failure to
follow all instructions listed below may result in electric
shock, fire and/or serious injury.
￭ Save all warnings and instructions for future reference.
The term "power tool" in the warnings refers to your mainsoperated (corded) power tool or battery-operated (cordless)
power tool.
5.2 Work Area Safety
a)Keep work area clean and well lit. Cluttered or dark areas
invite accidents.
b)Do not operate power tools in explosive atmospheres,
such as in the presence of flammable liquids, gases or
dust. Power tools create sparks which may ignite the dust
or fumes.
c) Keep children and bystanders away while operating a
power tool. Distractions can cause you to lose control.
5.3 Electrical Safety
a)Power tool plugs must match the outlet. Never modify the
plug in any way. Do not use any adapter plugs with
earthed (grounded) power tools. Unmodified plugs and
matching outlets will reduce the risk of electric shock.
b)Avoid body contact with earthed or grounded surfaces,
such as pipes, radiators, ranges and refrigerators. There
is an increased risk of electric shock if your body is
earthed or grounded.
c) Do not expose power tools to rain or wet conditions. Water
entering a power tool will increase the risk of electric
shock.
d)Do not abuse the cord. Never use the cord for carrying,
pulling or unplugging the power tool. Keep cord away from
heat, oil, sharp edges or moving parts. Damaged or
entangled cords increase the risk of electric shock.
6
0458-791-8621-C
5 General Power Tool Safety Warnings
English
e)When operating a power tool outdoors, use an extension
cord suitable for outdoor use. Use of a cord suitable for
outdoor use reduces the risk of electric shock.
f) If operating a power tool in a damp location is
unavoidable, use a residual current device (RCD) or
ground fault circuit interruptor (GFCI) protected supply.
Use of an RCD or GFCI reduces the risk of electric shock.
5.4 Personal Safety
a)Stay alert, watch what you are doing and use common
sense when operating a power tool. Do not use a power
tool while you are tired or under the influence of drugs,
alcohol or medication. A moment of inattention while
operating power tools may result in serious personal
injury.
b)Use personal protective equipment. Always wear eye
protection. Protective equipment such as dust mask, nonskid safety shoes, hard hat, or hearing protection used for
appropriate conditions will reduce personal injuries.
c) Prevent unintentional starting. Ensure the switch is in the
off-position before connecting to power source and/or
battery pack, picking up or carrying the tool. Carrying
power tools with your finger on the switch or energizing
power tools that have the switch on invites accidents.
d)Remove any adjusting key or wrench before turning the
power tool on. A wrench or a key left attached to a rotating
part of the power tool may result in personal injury.
e)Do not overreach. Keep proper footing and balance at all
times. This enables better control of the power tool in
unexpected situations.
f) Dress properly. Do not wear loose clothing or jewellery.
Keep your hair and clothing away from moving parts.
Loose clothes, jewellery or long hair can be caught in
moving parts.
g)If devices are provided for the connection of dust
extraction and collection facilities, ensure these are
connected and properly used. Use of dust collection can
reduce dust-related hazards.
h)Do not let familiarity gained from frequent use of tools
allow you to become complacent and ignore tool safety
principles. A careless action can cause severe injury
within a fraction of a second.
5.5 Power Tool Use and Care
a)Do not force the power tool. Use the correct power tool for
your application. The correct power tool will do the job
better and safer at the rate for which it was designed.
b)Do not use the power tool if the switch does not turn it on
and off. Any power tool that cannot be controlled with the
switch is dangerous and must be repaired.
c) Disconnect the plug from the power source and/or remove
the battery pack, if detachable, from the power tool before
making any adjustments, changing accessories, or storing
power tools. Such preventive safety measures reduce the
risk of starting the power tool accidentally.
d)Store idle power tools out of the reach of children and do
not allow persons unfamiliar with the power tool or these
instructions to operate the power tool. Power tools are
dangerous in the hands of untrained users.
e)Maintain power tools and accessories. Check for
misalignment or binding of moving parts, breakage of
parts and any other condition that may affect the power
tool's operation. If damaged, have the power tool repaired
before use. Many accidents are caused by poorly
maintained power tools.
f) Keep cutting tools sharp and clean. Properly maintained
cutting tools with sharp cutting edges are less likely to
bind and are easier to control.
g)Use the power tool, accessories and tool bits etc. in
accordance with these instructions, taking into account
the working conditions and the work to be performed. Use
of the power tool for operations different from those
intended could result in a hazardous situation.
h)Keep handles and grasping surfaces dry, clean and free
from oil and grease. Slippery handles and grasping
surfaces do not allow for safe handling and control of the
tool in unexpected situations.
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5 General Power Tool Safety Warnings
5.6 Battery Tool Use and Care
a)Recharge only with the charger specified by the
manufacturer. A charger that is suitable for one type of
battery pack may create a risk of fire when used with
another battery pack.
b)Use power tools only with specifically designated battery
packs. Use of any other battery packs may create a risk of
injury and fire.
c) When battery pack is not in use, keep it away from other
metal objects, like paper clips, coins, keys, nails, screws
or other small metal objects that can make a connection
from one terminal to another. Shorting the battery
terminals together may cause burns or a fire.
d)Under abusive conditions, liquid may be ejected from the
battery; avoid contact. If contact accidentally occurs, flush
with water. If liquid contacts eyes, additionally seek
medical help. Liquid ejected from the battery may cause
irritation or burns.
e)Do not use a battery pack or tool that is damaged or
modified. Damaged or modified batteries may exhibit
unpredictable behaviour resulting in fire/explosion or risk
of injury.
f) Do not expose a battery pack or tool to fire or excessive
temperature. Exposure to fire or temperatures above
100 °C may cause explosion.
g)Follow all charging instructions and do not charge the
battery pack or tool outside the temperature range
specified in the instructions. Charging improperly or at
temperatures outside the specified range may damage the
battery and increase the risk of fire.
5.7 Service
a)Have your power tool serviced by a qualified repair person
using only identical replacement parts. This will ensure
that the safety of the power tool is maintained.
b)Never service damaged battery packs. Service of battery
packs should only be performed by the manufacturer or
authorized service provider.
5.8 General Chain Saw Safety Warnings
a)Keep all parts of the body away from the saw chain when
the chain saw is op e rating. Before y ou start the chain saw,
make sure the saw chain is not contacting anything. A
moment of inattention while operating chain saws may
cause entanglement of your clothing or body with the saw
chain.
b)Always hold the chain saw with your right hand on the rear
handle and your left hand on the front handle. Holding the
chain saw with the reversed hand configuration increases
the risk of personal injury and should never be done.
c) Hold the chain saw by insulated gripping surfaces only,
because the saw chain may contact hidden wiring. Saw
chain contacting a "live" wire may make exposed metal
parts of the chain saw "live" and could give the operator
an electric shock.
d)Wear eye protection. Further protective equipment for
hearing, head, hands, legs and feet is recommended.
Adequate protective equipment will reduce personal injury
from flying debris and or accidental contact with the saw
chain.
e)When cutting a limb that is under tension, be alert for
spring back. When the tension in the wood fibers is
released, the spring loaded limb may strike the operator
and/or throw the chain saw out of control.
f) Use extreme caution when cutting brush and saplings.
The slender material may catch the saw chain and be
whipped toward you or pull you off balance.
g)Carry the chain saw by the control handle with the chain
saw switched off and away from your body. When
transporting or storing the chain saw, always fit the guide
bar cover. Proper handling of the chain saw will reduce the
likelihood of accidental contact with the moving saw chain.
h)Follow instructions for lubricating, chain tensioning and
changing the bar and chain. Improperly tensioned or
lubricated chain may either break or increase the chance
for kickback.
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i) Cut wood only. Do not use chain saw for purposes not
intended. For example: do not use chain saw for cutting
metal, plastic, masonry or non-wood building materials.
Use of the chain saw for operations different than intended
could result in a hazardous situation.
j) Follow all instructions when clearing jammed material,
storing or servicing the chain saw. Make sure the switch
is off and the battery pack is removed. Unexpected
actuation of the chain saw while clearing jammed material
or servicing may result in serious personal injury.
k) This chain saw is not intended for tree felling. Use of the
chain saw for operations different than intended could
result in serious injury to the operator or bystanders.
5.9 Causes and Operator Prevention of Kickback
a)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.
b)Tip contact in some cases may cause a sudden reverse
reaction, kicking the guide bar up and back towards the
operator.
c)Pinching the saw chain along the top of the guide bar may
push the guide bar rapidly back towards the operator.
d)Either of these reactions may cause you to lose control of
the saw which could result in serious personal injury. Do
not rely exclusively upon the safety devices built into your
saw. As a chain saw user, you should take several steps
to keep your cutting jobs free from accident or injury.
e)Kickback is the result of chain saw misuse and/or incorrect
operating procedures or conditions and can be avoided by
taking proper precautions as given below:
1)Maintain a firm grip, with thumbs and fingers encircling
the chain saw handles, with both hands on the saw and
position your body and arm to allow you to resist
kickback forces. Kickback forces can be controlled by
the operator, if proper precautions are taken. Do not let
go of the chain saw.
2)Do not overreach and do not cut above shoulder height.
This helps prevent unintended tip contact and enables
better control of the chain saw in unexpected situations.
3)Only use replacement guide bars and saw chains
specified by the manufacturer. Incorrect replacement
guide bars and saw chains may cause chain breakage
and/or kickback.
4)Follow the manufacturer's sharpening and maintenance
instructions for the saw chain. Decreasing the depth
gauge height can lead to increased kickback.
6 IMPORTANT SAFETY
INSTRUCTIONS
6.1 Intended Use
WARNING
￭ This chain saw is designed specifically for in-tree surgery
and maintenance. It is not designed for felling trees or
cutting logs on the ground. Use of the chain saw for
operations different than intended could result in serious
injury or death.
￭ This chain saw should be used only for work in a tree by
persons trained in special cutting and working techniques.
Because this saw is not intended for use on the ground,
this manual does not contain instructions for felling or for
limbing or bucking felled trees.
– Cut wood only. For example, do not use chain saw
for cutting metal, plastic or masonry.
– Read and follow the operating and use instructions
in this manual for approved applications and
recommended working techniques.
￭ The saw chain has many sharp cutters. If they contact
your flesh, they will cut you even if the chain is not moving.
– Always wear heavy-duty work gloves when handling
the saw or its chain.
– Keep hands, feet and other parts of your body away
from the chain.
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￭ Reactive forces, including kickback, can be dangerous.
– Pay special attention to the sections of this
instruction manual dealing with reactive forces.
￭ Observe all applicable federal, state and local safety
regulations, standards and ordinances.
– When using a chain saw for logging purposes, for
instance, refer to the OSHA regulations for "logging
operations" at 29 Code of Federal Regulations
1910.266.
￭ Improper use could result in personal injury or property
damage, including damage to the chain saw.
– Use the chain saw and battery only as described in
this manual.
– Never attempt to modify or override the chain saw's
controls or safety devices in any way.
– Never use a chain saw that has been modified or
altered from its original design.
– Be sure to read and follow the warnings and
instructions for your battery and charger before
charging or starting work.
￭ This power tool may be powered by a STIHL AP series
battery. Alternatively, it may be powered by a STIHL AR
series backpack battery in combination with an
AP adapter.
￭ Do not use STIHL AR batteries or AP series batteries in a
battery bag with connecting cord with STIHL MSA
top-handle chain saws while climbing in a tree. Use could
lead to severe personal injury and property damage from
entanglement of the connecting cord, loss of control, or
loss of balance.
– If using an AR series battery or AP series battery in
a battery bag with connecting cord always use a lift
bucket for in-tree surgery and maintenance. Do not
climb in the tree.
Batteries, chargers and other accessories are sold
separately.
6.2 Operator
WARNING
￭ Working with the chain saw can be strenuous. The
operator must be in good physical condition and mental
health. To reduce the risk of personal injury from fatigue
and loss of control:
– Check with your doctor before using the chain saw if
you have any health condition that may be
aggravated by strenuous work.
– Do not operate the chain saw while under the
influence of any substance (drug, alcohol or
medication, etc.) that might impair vision, balance,
dexterity or judgment.
– Be alert. Do not operate the chain saw when you are
tired. Take a break if you become tired.
– Do not permit minors to use the chain saw.
– Bystanders, especially children, and animals should
not be allowed in the area where the chain saw is in
use.
￭ Prolonged use of a chain saw (or other power tools)
exposing the operator to vibration may produce white
finger disease (Raynaud's phenomenon) or carpal tunnel
syndrome. These conditions reduce the hand's ability to
feel and regulate temperature. They produce numbness
and burning sensations and may also cause nerve and
circulation damage as well as tissue necrosis.
￭ All factors which contribute to white finger disease are not
known. Cold weather, smoking and diseases or physical
conditions that affect blood vessels and blood transport,
as well as high vibration levels and long periods of
exposure to vibration, are mentioned as factors in the
development of white finger disease.
￭ To reduce the risk of white finger disease and carpal
tunnel syndrome:
– Wear gloves while working and keep your hands
warm.
– Keep the chain saw well maintained. An improperly
maintained chain saw or one with loose components
will tend to have higher vibration levels.
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– Keep the saw chain sharp. A dull chain will increase
cutting time, and pressing a dull chain through wood
will increase the vibration transmitted to your hands.
– Maintain a firm grip at all times, but do not squeeze
the handles with constant, excessive pressure. Take
frequent breaks.
￭ These precautions do not guarantee that you will not
sustain white finger disease or carpal tunnel syndrome.
– Closely monitor the condition of your hands and
fingers if you are a regular operator.
– Seek medical advice immediately if any of the above
symptoms appear.
￭ According to STIHL's current knowledge, the electric
motor of this chain saw should not interfere with a
pacemaker.
– However, persons with a pacemaker or other
implanted medical device should consult their
physician and device manufacturer before operating
this chain saw.
6.3 Personal Protective Equipment
WARNING
￭ To reduce the risk of personal injury:
– Always wear proper clothing and protective apparel,
including proper eye protection.
￭ Loss of control and severe cut injuries may result if hair,
clothing or apparel make contact with the moving saw
chain or otherwise become entangled in the components
of the saw. To reduce the risk of severe personal injury:
– Wear sturdy and snug-fitting clothing that
also allows complete freedom of
movement.
– Wear the type of overalls, long pants or
chaps that contain pads of cut-retardant
material.
– Wear a long-sleeve shirt or jacket.
– Avoid loose-fitting jackets, scarves, neckties, flared
or cuffed pants, jewelry and any other apparel that
could be caught on branches, brush or the moving
chain.
– Secure hair above shoulder level before starting
work.
￭ To reduce the risk of eye injury:
– Always wear goggles or close-fitting
protective glasses with adequate top and
side protection that are impact-rated and
marked as complying with ANSI Z87 "+".
– To reduce the risk of injury to your face, STIHL
recommends that you also wear a face shield or face
screen over your goggles or protective glasses.
￭ To reduce the risk of head injury from falling branches or
other objects encountered during work:
– Wear an approved protective helmet.
– Any crew member in the cutting area should also
wear proper protective equipment, including an
approved helmet.
￭ Chain saw noise may damage your hearing. Although this
battery-powered product is relatively quiet, to reduce the
risk of hearing damage:
– Wear sound barriers (ear plugs or ear muffs).
– Regular operators should have their hearing
checked periodically.
– Be particularly alert and cautious when using
hearing protection. Your ability to hear shouts,
alarms or other audible warnings is restricted.
￭ Good footing is very important. To help maintain a secure
footing and reduce the risk of injury while working:
– Wear sturdy boots with non-slip soles
that are suitable for climbing in trees. Do
not wear sandals, flip-flops, open-toed or
similar footwear.
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6 IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS
– Use proper equipment at all times to
protect yourself from falling.
– This top-handle chain saw is designed
for professional use only. It should be
used only for in-tree work by persons
who are trained in special cutting and
working techniques and who are properly
secured at all times (for example, in a lift
bucket or secured with ropes and a
safety harness).
￭ To improve your grip and help protect your hands:
– Always wear heavy-duty non-slip work
gloves made of leather or another wearresistant material when handling the
chain saw or its chain.
6.4 Chain Saw
WARNING
￭ To reduce the risk of electric shock:
– Do not immerse the chain saw in water or other
fluids.
– Store the chain saw indoors.
￭ The saw chain has many sharp cutters. Contacting the
cutters may result in serious laceration injuries, even if the
chain is not moving. To reduce the risk of such injuries:
– Keep hands, feet and other parts of your body away
from the chain.
– Wear heavy-duty work gloves when handling the
chain saw or its chain.
– Never touch a moving chain with your hand or any
other part of your body.
– Cover the guide bar with a chain scabbard before
transporting or storing the chain saw to reduce the
risk of injury from inadvertent contact.
￭ Reactive forces, including kickback, can be dangerous.
– Pay special attention to the section of this instruction
manual on "Kickback and Other Reactive Forces,"
@ 7.
￭ This battery-powered chain saw is intended specifically
for in-tree surgery and maintenance. Use for other
purposes may increase the risk of personal injury and
property damage.
– Do not use the chain saw for felling or other cutting
operations on the ground.
– Read and follow the operating instructions in this
manual for approved applications, @ 8.
￭ To reduce the risk of personal injury to the operator and
bystanders:
– Always release the trigger switch,
engage the chain brake by moving the
front hand guard to and remove the
battery before assembling, transporting,
adjusting, inspecting, cleaning,
servicing, maintaining or storing the
chain saw and any other time it is not in
use.
￭ Although certain unauthorized attachments may fit your
STIHL chain saw, their use may be extremely dangerous.
Only attachments supplied by STIHL or expressly
approved by STIHL for use with this specific model are
recommended.
– Use only attachments supplied or expressly
approved by STIHL.
– Never modify this chain saw in any way.
– Never attempt to modify or override the chain saw's
controls or safety devices in any way.
– Never use a chain saw that has been modified or
altered from its original design.
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￭ If the chain saw is dropped or subjected to similar heavy
impacts:
– Check that it is undamaged, in good condition and
functioning properly before continuing work.
– Check that the controls and safety devices, including
the chain brake, are working properly, @ 20.1.
– Check the LEDs for error messages, @ 13.1.2.
– Check that the battery has not been damaged.
Never use or charge a malfunctioning, damaged,
cracked, leaking or deformed battery.
– Never work with a damaged or malfunctioning chain
saw or battery. In case of doubt, have the chain saw
and battery checked by your authorized STIHL
servicing dealer.
￭ If the chain saw or battery is damaged, not working
properly, has been left outdoors or dropped into water or
other liquid, its components may no longer function
properly and safety devices may be inoperative. To
reduce the risk of personal injury and property damage:
– Take the chain saw and battery to your authorized
STIHL servicing dealer to be checked before further
operation.
￭ Genuine STIHL replacement parts are specifically
designed to match your chain saw and meet safety and
performance requirements. Use of parts that are not
authorized or approved by STIHL may cause serious or
fatal injury or property damage.
– STIHL recommends that only identical STIHL
replacement parts be used.
6.5 Using the Chain Saw
6.5.1 Before Operation
WARNING
￭ Misuse or unauthorized use may result in personal injury
and property damage.
– Use the chain saw only as described in this
instruction manual.
￭ For proper assembly of the bar and chain:
– Read and follow the instructions on mounting the
guide bar and chain, @ 16.2.1.
￭ The chain, guide bar and sprocket must match each other
in gauge and pitch. Before mounting or replacing:
– Read the information on guide bar and chain
combinations, @ 28.
– Read and follow the instructions on kickback and
other reactive forces, @ 7.
– Select the shortest bar that will meet your cutting
needs. Longer bars add weight and may be more
difficult to control.
￭ Proper tension of the chain is extremely important to
maximize cutting performance and reduce the risk of
personal injury from chain breakage, derailment or
reactive forces:
– Never cut with a loose chain. If the chain becomes
loose while cutting, switch off the motor, engage the
chain brake and remove the battery from the chain
saw before tightening the chain. Never attempt to
adjust the chain while the battery is inserted.
– Read and follow the chain tensioning instructions,
@ 16.3.
– Always make sure the chain sprocket cover is
tightened securely after tensioning the chain in order
to secure the bar. Never start the chain saw with the
chain sprocket cover loose or missing.
– Check chain tension once more after tightening the
chain sprocket cover.
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6 IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS
– After adjusting the chain, let the motor run for a
minute or two, then switch the motor off and engage
the chain brake. Remove the battery and recheck
chain tension.
– Check chain tension periodically thereafter at
regular intervals (only after engaging the chain brake
and removing the battery).
￭ Using a chain saw that is modified, damaged, improperly
adjusted or maintained, or not completely and securely
assembled can lead to a malfunction and increase the risk
of serious personal injury or death.
– Never operate a chain saw that is modified,
damaged, improperly maintained or not completely
and securely assembled.
– Always check your chain saw for proper condition
and operation before starting work, particularly the
trigger switch, Ergo-Lever, trigger switch lockout,
front hand guard, chain brake and cutting
attachment.
– Ensure that the trigger switch, Ergo-Lever and
trigger switch lockout move freely and always spring
back to the locked position when released. The
trigger switch must not engage until the trigger
switch lockout is depressed.
– Never attempt to modify or override the controls or
safety devices in any way.
– If your saw or any part is damaged or does not
function properly, take it to your authorized STIHL
servicing dealer. Do not use the saw until the
problem has been corrected.
￭ Before inserting the battery:
– Check the contacts in the battery compartment for
corrosion or other foreign matter and keep clean.
– Never insert or use a malfunctioning, damaged,
cracked, leaking or deformed battery.
– Read and follow the instructions on switching on the
chain saw, @ 19.1.
￭ To help reduce the risk of serious personal injury or death
from unintentional starting:
– Be sure the trigger switch and trigger switch lockout
are in the off position when inserting the battery.
– Avoid contacting the trigger switch lockout and
trigger switch when grasping the control handle of
the chain saw.
– Release the trigger switch and trigger switch lockout
and engage the chain brake before removing the
battery.
– Remove the battery and engage the
chain brake before assembling,
transporting, adjusting, inspecting,
cleaning, servicing, maintaining or
storing the chain saw and any time it is
not in use.
– Never leave the chain saw unattended when the
battery is inserted.
– Never store the battery in the chain saw.
￭ Before disengaging the chain brake and switching on your
chain saw, take the following steps to reduce the risk of
personal injury from reactive forces, loss of control or
inadvertent contact with the chain:
– Be sure that the guide bar and chain are clear of you
and all other obstructions and objects, including the
ground.
– Never switch on the chain saw when the guide bar is
in a cut or kerf. Doing so could lead to reactive forces
and injury.
– Read and follow the instructions on switching on the
chain saw, @ 19.1.
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6.5.2 Holding and Controlling the Chain Saw
WARNING
￭ To reduce the risk of personal injury from unintentional
starting when grasping the control handle or carrying the
chain saw:
– Wrap the fingers of your right hand tightly around the
control handle. Avoid contacting the trigger switch
lockout or trigger switch.
￭
￭ To maintain a firm grip and properly control your chain
saw:
– Keep the handles clean and dry at all times. Keep
them free of moisture, pitch, oil, grease and resin.
￭ To reduce the risk of serious or fatal injuries to the
operator or bystanders from loss of control:
– Avoid contacting any object with the
upper quadrant of the tip of the guide
bar. It may cause kickback to occur.
– Always hold the chain saw firmly with
both hands when you are working. Onehanded operation increases the risk of
injury. It makes it difficult to control
reactive forces and to prevent the bar
and chain from skating or bouncing along
the limb or log.
– Even for those compact chain saws
designed for use in confined spaces,
one-handed operation increases the risk
that the operator may lose control.
– Place your left hand on the front handle and your
right hand on the control handle (see illustration).
Left-handers must follow these instructions too.
– Wrap your fingers tightly around the handles,
keeping the handles cradled between your thumb
and forefinger.
– Position the chain saw in such a way that all parts of
your body are clear of the cutting attachment
0000-GXX-3214-A0
whenever the battery is inserted. Stand to the left of
the cut while cutting, outside of the cutting plane.
– Read and follow all warnings and instructions in the
chapter Kickback and Reactive Forces, @ 7.
￭ Operating the chain saw with one hand is extremely
dangerous. One-handed operation makes it difficult to
oppose and absorb reactive forces (pushback, pull-in,
kickback) without losing control of the chain saw. It also
makes it difficult to prevent the bar and chain from skating
or bouncing along a limb or log. To reduce the risk of
serious or fatal injury to the operator or bystanders from
loss of control:
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6 IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS
– Never attempt to operate the chain saw
with one hand.
– Even for those compact chain saws
designed for use in confined spaces,
one-handed operation increases the risk
that the operator may lose control.
– Position the chain saw in such a way that your body
is clear of the cutting attachment whenever the saw
is in operation. Position yourself to the left of the cut
while bucking.
– Never work in a tree unless you have received
specific, professional training for such work, are
properly secured (with a tack and harness system,
lift bucket or other appropriate means), 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.
– The use of climbing aids such as spikes or climbing
irons also requires special training. Always secure
the chain saw with a rope (tie to hinged ring) and
attach it to a lifeline. Cordon off the work area in
order to reduce the risk of injuries and damage to
bystanders or property (e.g., motor vehicles) from
falling branches.
￭ To reduce the risk of serious or fatal cut injuries to the
operator or bystanders from loss of control, keep proper
footing and balance at all times:
– Take special care in overgrown or wet terrain and
always watch for hidden obstacles such as tree
stumps, roots, rocks, holes and ditches to avoid
stumbling.
– Be extremely cautious when working on slopes or
uneven ground.
– For better footing, always clear away fallen
branches, scrub and cuttings. Freshly debarked logs
and other material can increase the danger of
slipping, tripping or falling.
– Use extreme caution when cutting small-size brush,
branches and saplings because slender material
may catch the chain and spring toward you or pull
you off balance.
￭ To reduce the risk of falling:
– Keep rotating chain well clear of harness and
lifelines to prevent them being severed. It is
essential to use a double lifeline.
– Check condition of harness, belts and ropes before
each use.
– Always pull the saw out of the cut with the chain
running.
– After finishing a cut, activate the chain brake to lock
the chain and switch off the saw before moving the
saw to another position in the tree.
￭ To reduce the risk of injury from loss of control:
– Never work on a ladder, roof or while
standing on any other insecure support.
– Never operate the chain saw above
shoulder height.
– Do not overreach. Keep proper footing and balance
at all times.
– Never switch on the chain saw when the guide bar is
in a cut or kerf. Doing so could lead to reactive forces
and injury. Instead, remove the guide bar from the
cut and re-enter at full speed, taking care to avoid
contacting any object with the tip of the guide bar.
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￭ The bumper spike is designed to provide greater control
of the chain saw while cutting. If you work without the
bumper spike, the chain saw may pull you forward
suddenly. This could cause loss of control or, if the tip of
the guide bar strikes an object, kickback.
– Always work with the bumper spike to maintain
better control of the saw.
￭ Applying pressure to the chain saw when reaching the end
of a cut may cause the bar and rotating chain to accelerate
out of the kerf, go out of control and strike the operator or
some other object. To reduce the risk of injury:
– Use caution when approaching the end of a cut.
– Never put pressure on the chain saw when reaching
the end of a cut.
6.5.3 Working Conditions
WARNING
￭ Operate your chain saw only under good visibility during
favorable daylight conditions.
– Postpone the work if the weather is windy, foggy,
rainy or inclement.
– Never cut near power lines.
￭ Your chain saw is a one-person machine.
– Do not allow other persons in the general work area.
– Bystanders, especially children, and animals should
not be allowed in the area where it is in use.
– Switch off the motor immediately if you are
approached.
￭ To reduce the risk of injury to bystanders and
unauthorized users:
– Never leave the chain saw unattended when the
battery is inserted.
– Switch off the chain saw, engage the chain brake
and remove the battery during work breaks and any
other time the chain saw is not in use.
￭ Sparks generated from the operation of the chain saw may
be capable of igniting combustible gases, liquids, vapors,
dusts or other combustible materials and substances. To
reduce the risk of fire and explosion:
– Never operate the chain saw in a location where
combustible gases, liquids, vapors, dusts or other
combustible materials and substances are present.
– Read and follow recommendations issued by
government authorities (e.g., OSHA) for identifying
and avoiding the hazards of combustible gases,
liquids, vapors, dusts or other combustible materials
and substances.
￭ If a rotating chain strikes a rock or other hard object,
sparks may be created, which can ignite flammable
materials under certain circumstances. Flammable
materials can include dry vegetation and brush,
particularly when weather conditions are hot and dry.
– When there is a risk of fire or wildfire, do not use your
chain saw around flammable materials or around dry
vegetation or brush.
– Contact your local fire authorities or the U.S. Forest
Service if you have any question about whether
vegetation and weather conditions are suitable for
the use of a chain saw.
￭ Using this chain saw and sharpening its chain can
generate dust, oil mist and other substances containing
chemicals known to cause respiratory problems, cancer,
birth defects and other reproductive harm.
– Consult governmental agencies such as EPA,
OSHA, CARB and NIOSH and other authoritative
sources on hazardous materials if you are unfamiliar
with the risks associated with the particular
substances you are cutting or with which you are
working.
￭ Inhalation of certain dusts, especially organic dusts such
as mold or pollen, can cause susceptible persons to have
an allergic or asthmatic reaction. Substantial or repeated
inhalation of dust or other airborne contaminants,
especially those with a smaller particle size, may cause
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6 IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS
respiratory or other illnesses. This includes wood dust,
especially from hardwoods, but also from some softwoods
such as Western Red Cedar.
– Control dust (such as saw dust) and mists (such as
oil mist from chain lubrication) at the source where
possible.
– Always work with a properly sharpened chain, which
produces wood chips rather than fine dust.
– To the extent possible, operate the chain saw so that
the wind or operating process directs any dust, mist
or other particulate matter raised by the chain saw
away from the operator.
– When respirable dust or other particulate matter
cannot be kept at or near background levels, always
wear a respirator that is approved by NIOSH and
rated for worksite-specific conditions. Follow the
recommendations of governmental authorities (e.g.,
OSHA/NIOSH) and occupational and trade
associations.
￭ If the vegetation being cut or the surrounding ground is
coated with a chemical substance, such as pesticide or
herbicide:
– Read and follow the instructions and warnings that
accompanied the substance coating the vegetation
or surrounding ground.
￭ Breathing asbestos dust is dangerous and can cause
severe or fatal illness, respiratory illness or cancer,
including mesothelioma. The use and disposal of
asbestos-containing products is strictly regulated by
OSHA and the EPA.
– Do not use your chain saw to cut or disturb asbestos
or asbestos-containing products.
– Stop work immediately and contact the relevant
state and local authorities and/or EPA, your
employer or local OSHA representative if you have
reason to believe that you might be disturbing
asbestos.
￭ Repeated contact with waste oil can cause skin cancer
and its use is harmful to the environment.
– Do not use waste oil to lubricate the bar and chain of
your STIHL chain saw.
6.5.4 Operating Instructions
WARNING
￭ To reduce the risk of severe personal injuries from
unintentional starting:
– Never touch a chain with your hand or any part of
your body when the battery is inserted, even when
the chain is not rotating.
– Avoid contacting the trigger switch lockout and
trigger switch when grasping the control handle of
the chain saw.
￭ The chain continues to move for a short period after the
trigger switch is fully released.
– Wait for the chain to stop and engage the chain
brake before walking with the chain saw or putting it
down.
￭ In the event of an emergency:
– Switch off the motor immediately, engage the chain
brake and remove the battery.
￭ Your chain saw is equipped with a chain catcher. It is
designed to reduce the risk of personal injury in the event
of a thrown or broken chain.
– Never operate the chain saw with a damaged or
missing chain catcher.
￭ Contacting foreign objects while sawing might cause the
chain to break or be thrown, or cause the chain saw to
propel dangerous debris or kick back in the direction of the
operator. To reduce the risk of severe or fatal personal
injury caused by contact with foreign objects:
– Inspect the tree, log or branch before cutting.
– Remove any foreign objects to ensure that the wood
is free of materials such as nails, spikes, cables, or
wires.
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– Before starting a cut, ensure that it can be completed
without contacting surrounding objects or structures
such as fencing or stonework.
￭ Check the chain and guide bar at regular short intervals
during operation, or immediately if there is a change in
cutting behavior:
– Switch off the motor, activate the chain brake and
remove the battery.
– Check the condition and tension of the chain. Look
for damage to the chain or guide bar.
– If the chain cannot be properly tensioned, or if other
components of the saw are worn or damaged, stop
work immediately and take your chain saw to an
authorized STIHL servicing dealer for inspection,
repair or maintenance.
DANGER
￭ To reduce the risk of electrocution:
– Never operate this chain saw in the
vicinity of any wires or cables that may
be carrying electric current.
– Never cut near power lines.
– Do not rely on the chain saw's insulation
against electric shock.
￭ The powerful forces used to cut wood can be reversed and
work against the operator. If the rotating saw chain is
suddenly and significantly slowed or stopped by contact
with any solid object such as a log or branch, or is
pinched, the reactive forces may occur instantly.
￭ These reactive forces may result in loss of control, which,
in turn, may cause serious or fatal injury.
– An understanding of the causes of these reactive
forces may help you avoid the element of surprise
and loss of control. Surprise contributes to
accidents.
The most common reactive forces are:
– Kickback
– Pull-in
– Pushback
7.2 Kickback
7.2.1 Kickback
7 Kickback and Other Reactive Forces
7.1 Reactive Forces
WARNING
￭ Reactive forces may occur any time the chain is rotating.
Reactive forces can cause serious or fatal personal injury.
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WARNING
Kickback may occur when the moving chain near
the upper quadrant of the bar nose contacts a
solid object or is pinched.
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7 Kickback and Other Reactive Forces
￭ When this occurs, the energy driving the chain can create
a force that moves the chain saw in a direction opposite to
the chain movement at the point where the chain is slowed
or stopped. This may fling the bar up and back in a
lightning fast reaction mainly in the plane of the bar and
can cause severe or fatal injury to the operator.
￭ Kickback may occur, for example, when the chain near the
upper quadrant of the bar nose contacts the wood or is
pinched during limbing or when it is incorrectly used to
begin a plunge or boring cut.
￭ The greater the force of the kickback reaction, the more
difficult it becomes for the operator to control the chain
saw. Many factors influence the occurrence and force of
the kickback reaction. These include chain speed, the
speed at which the bar and chain contact the object, the
location and angle of contact, the condition of the chain,
and how quickly the chain is slowed or stopped, among
other factors.
– The type of bar and chain you use is an important
factor in the occurrence and force of the kickback
reaction. Some STIHL bar and chain types are
designed to reduce kickback forces.
– STIHL recommends the use of reduced kickback
bars and low kickback chains.
7.2.2 Chain Saw Kickback Standards
The following standards apply with respect to kickback:
– § 19.108 of UL 60745-2-13
– § 5.11 of ANSI/OPEI B175.1
These standards, referred to as "the chain saw kickback
standards" in this chapter, set certain performance and
design criteria related to chain saw kickback.
To comply with the chain saw kickback standards, electric
chain saws:
– must, in their original condition, meet a 25° 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 chain saws are
measured by applying a computer program to test results
from a kickback test machine.
WARNING
￭ Compliance with the chain saw kickback standards does
not mean that the bar and chain will rotate at most 25° in
a real life kickback.
￭ The computer-derived angles of the chain saw standards
may bear no relationship to actual kickback bar rotation
angles that may occur in a real life cutting situation.
￭ Devices designed to reduce the risk of kickback injuries
may lose some of their effectiveness when they are no
longer in their original condition, especially if they have
been improperly maintained.
– Read and follow the safety precautions and
instructions in this manual.
– When working, always position the chain saw such
that your body is clear of the cutting attachment and
outside of the cutting plane.
– Follow the maintenance and service instructions in
this manual.
￭ For the chain saw to meet the chain saw kickback
standards, use only the following cutting attachments:
– Compliant bar and chain combinations listed in
"Combinations of Guide Bars and Saw Chains,"
@ 28;
– Other replacement bar and chain combinations
marked in accordance with the standards for use on
the chain saw; or
– Replacement chain designated "low kickback chain."
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7.2.3 Devices for Reducing the Risk of Kickback Injury
The STIHL Quickstop chain brake and STIHL's greenlabeled, reduced kickback bars and green-labeled, low
kickback chains are designed to reduce the risk of kickback
injury.
1. STIHL Quickstop Chain Brake
There are two mechanisms for activating the chain brake if
it is in a properly maintained condition:
– Manual Activation: If a kickback occurs, the chain saw
moves upwards toward the user in a rotating motion
around the front handle. The brake is designed to engage
if the left hand contacts the front hand guard, which is the
activation lever for the brake, and pushes it forward.
– Inertia Activation: All STIHL chain saws are equipped with
an inertia Quickstop chain brake. If the kickback impulse
is strong enough, this alone is sufficient to engage the
brake even without contacting the front hand guard.
WARNING
￭ To reduce the risk of kickback injury:
– Never use a saw if the chain brake does not function
properly.
– When in doubt, take the saw to an authorized STIHL
servicing dealer for inspection and/or repair.
– Do not use the saw until the problem has been
corrected.
￭ In a kickback situation, the front hand guard helps protect
your left hand from contacting the chain. Removal of the
front hand guard on a chain saw equipped with a
Quickstop chain brake will reduce this protection and also
disable the chain brake, increasing the risk of kickback
injury.
– Never operate your saw without a properly
functioning front hand guard. If the front hand guard
is missing, manual activation and inertia activation of
the chain brake will be completely disabled.
– Never attempt to remove, modify or disable the front
hand guard or any other component of the chain
brake.
￭ No Quickstop or other chain brake device prevents
kickback. These devices are designed to reduce the risk
of injury, if activated, in certain kickback situations. To
reduce the risk of severe personal injury or death from
kickback:
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– Always follow the instructions in this manual and
follow good working technique. For example,
position your body clear of the cutting attachment
whenever the motor is running. Stand to the left of
the cut while bucking, outside of the cutting plane.
See chapter "Holding and Controlling the Chain
Saw", @ 6.5.2.
– Maintain as much distance as possible, and never
less than 25 degrees, between the bar and your
body to ensure that the Quickstop has sufficient time
to activate and stop the chain before reaching any
part of your body.
– Follow the other precautions provided in chapter
@ 8.
￭ An improperly maintained chain brake may increase the
time needed to stop the chain after activation, or may not
activate at all. For the Quickstop to reduce the risk of
kickback injury, it must be properly maintained and in
good working order.
– Read and follow the instructions on engaging and
disengaging the chain brake, @ 17.1, and
maintaining and repairing it, @ 17.3.
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7 Kickback and Other Reactive Forces
2. Low Kickback Saw Chain and Reduced Kickback Bars
STIHL offers a variety of guide bars and chains. STIHL
reduced kickback bars and low kickback chains are
designed to reduce the risk of kickback injury. Other chains
are designed to achieve higher cutting performance or
sharpening ease, but are more prone to kickback and may
kick back with more energy, making it more difficult to
control the chain saw.
STIHL has developed a color code system to help you
identify the STIHL reduced kickback bars and low kickback
chains.
– Cutting attachments with green labels on the packaging
are designed to reduce the risk of kickback injury.
– Matching green-marked or labeled chain saws with green-
labeled bars and green-labeled chains provides
compliance with the computed kickback angle
requirements of the chain saw standards when the
products are in their original condition.
– Products with yellow labels are for users with
extraordinary cutting needs, who have experience and
specialized training for dealing with kickback.
STIHL recommends the use of its green-labeled reduced
kickback bars, green-labeled low kickback chains and a
chain saw equipped with a STIHL Quickstop chain brake for
both experienced and inexperienced operators.
STIHL recommends green-labeled bars and chains for all
chain saws. See your "STIHL Bar and Chain Information"
leaflet for details.
New bar and chain combinations may be developed after
publication of this literature, which will, in combination with
certain electric chain saws, comply with the chain saw
standards as well.
WARNING
￭ Use of bar and chain combinations not listed in the STIHL
Bar and Chain Information leaflet (or other combinations
that do not comply with the chain saw standards) may
increase kickback forces as well as the propensity for
kickback and increase the risk of kickback injury.
– Please ask your authorized STIHL servicing dealer
to properly match your chain saw with the
appropriate bar and chain combination to reduce the
risk of kickback injury.
￭ Reduced kickback bars and low kickback chains do not
prevent kickback, but they are designed to reduce the risk
of kickback injury.
– STIHL recommends green-labeled bars and green-
labeled chains for all chain saws and all users.
￭ Even if your saw is equipped with a Quickstop chain
brake, a reduced kickback bar and/or low kickback chain,
this does not eliminate the risk of injury from kickback.
– Observe all safety precautions discussed in this
manual to avoid kickback situations.
a. Low Kickback Saw Chain
Some types of chain have specially designed components to
reduce the propensity for kickback and the force of kickback
if it occurs. STIHL has developed low kickback chain for your
chain saw.
A "low kickback chain" is a chain that has met the kickback
performance requirements of ANSI/OPEI B175.1 when
tested according to the provisions specified in ANSI/OPEI
B175.1.
WARNING
￭ Some low kickback chains have not been tested with all
chain saw and bar combinations. There are potential saw,
bar and low kickback chain combinations which have not
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7 Kickback and Other Reactive Forces
English
been specifically certified to comply with the 25°
computer-derived kickback angle of the chain saw
standards.
– STIHL recommends green-labeled bars and green-
labeled chains for all chain saws and all users.
– Please see your STIHL Bar and Chain Information
leaflet for the appropriate bar and chain
combinations for your saw.
– Please ask your authorized STIHL servicing dealer
to properly match your chain saw with the
appropriate bar and chain combination to reduce the
risk of kickback injury.
￭ A blunt or incorrectly sharpened chain may reduce or
negate the effectiveness of design features intended to
reduce kickback energy and the propensity for kickback.
Improper lowering or sharpening of the depth gauges or
changing the shape of the cutters may increase the risk
and the energy of kickback.
– Always cut with a properly sharpened chain.
– Read and follow the instructions on sharpening a
chain, @ 25.
￭ Any chain saw mounted with a bow guide is potentially
very dangerous. The risk of kickback is increased with a
bow guide because of the increased kickback contact area
and because the design of bow guides places the upper
portion of the bar closer to the operator's body. Using a
low kickback chain will not significantly reduce the risk of
kickback injury when used on a bow guide.
– Never mount a bow guide on any STIHL chain saw.
b. Reduced Kickback Bars
STIHL green-labeled reduced kickback bars are designed to
reduce the risk of kickback injury when used with STIHL
green-labeled low kickback chains.
WARNING
￭ When used with other, more aggressive chains,
green-labeled reduced kickback bars may be less
effective in reducing kickback.
– STIHL recommends green-labeled bars and green-
labeled chains for all chain saws and all users.
￭ For proper balance and to comply with the chain saw
standards:
– Use only bar lengths listed in this manual, @ 28.
7.2.4 To Avoid Kickback
The best protection from personal injury that may result from
kickback is to avoid kickback situations:
1)Hold the chain saw firmly and with both hands and
maintain a secure grip, with your right hand on the control
handle and left hand on the front handle. Maintain a
secure grip with thumbs and fingers encircling the chain
saw handles. Don't let go.
2)Make sure the area in which you are cutting is free from
obstructions.
3)Be aware of the location of the guide bar nose at all times.
Never let the nose of the guide bar unintentionally contact
any object. Do not cut limbs with the nose of the guide bar.
Be especially careful near wire fences and when cutting
small, tough limbs, small size brush and saplings which
may easily catch the saw chain.
4)Do not overreach.
5)Do not cut above shoulder height.
6)Begin cutting and continue at full speed.
7)Cut only one log at a time.
8)Use extreme caution when re-entering a previous cut.
9)Do not attempt to plunge cut if you are not experienced
with this cutting technique.
10)Be alert for shifting of the log or other forces that may
cause the cut to close and pinch the saw chain.
11)Maintain saw chain properly. Cut with a correctly
sharpened, properly tensioned saw chain at all times.
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7 Kickback and Other Reactive Forces
12)Stand to the side of the cutting path of the chain saw.
13)Use only replacement bars and chains specified by
STIHL, or the equivalent.
7.3 Pull-in
WARNING
￭ Pull-in occurs when the chain on the bottom of the bar is
suddenly stopped or significantly slowed when it is
pinched, caught or encounters a foreign object in the
wood. The reaction of the chain pulls the saw forward and
may cause the operator to lose control, which, in turn, may
cause serious or fatal injury. If the tip contacts an object,
kickback may occur.
￭ Pull-in usually occurs when the bumper spike of the saw
is not held securely against the tree or limb and when the
chain is not rotating at full speed before it contacts the
wood.
￭ To reduce the risk of pull-in:
– Cut with a sharp, properly tensioned chain.
– Always start a cut with the chain rotating at full speed
and with the bumper spike in contact with the wood.
– Use wedges to open the kerf or cut, where possible.
– Use extreme caution when cutting small-size brush
and saplings which may easily catch the chain,
spring towards you or pull you off balance.
7.4 Pushback
WARNING
￭ Pushback occurs when the chain on the top of the bar is
suddenly stopped or significantly slowed when it is
pinched, caught or encounters a foreign object in the
wood. The reaction of the chain may drive the saw rapidly
straight back toward the operator, causing loss of control
which, in turn, may cause serious or fatal injury.
￭ Pushback usually occurs when the top of the bar is used
for cutting.
￭ To reduce the risk of pushback:
– Be alert to forces or situations that may cause
material to pinch or bind the top of the chain.
– Do not cut more than one log at a time.
– Do not twist the chain saw when withdrawing the bar
from an underbuck cut because the chain can pinch
or bind.
– Cut with a sharp, properly tensioned chain.
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8 Basic Working Technique
8.1 Intended Uses
WARNING
￭ This lightweight chain saw equipped with a top handle is
designed specifically for in-tree surgery and maintenance.
￭ This chain saw is not designed for felling trees or other
cutting operations on the ground.
￭ Before starting any cutting operation, fully charge your
STIHL AP or AR battery and ensure that all cuts
necessary can be completed on a single charge.
– Fully charge the STIHL AP or AR series battery
before starting work.
– Ensure that all necessary cuts can be completed
using the existing charge before starting.
￭ Position the chain saw in such a way that your body is
clear of the cutting attachment whenever the motor is
running.
8.2 Pruning
Pruning is selectively removing branches from a standing
tree.
WARNING
￭ To reduce the risk of injury from loss of control:
– Do not use the chain saw one-handed.
– Never operate the chain saw above shoulder height
or cut overhead.
– Do not overreach.
– If you are unable to follow these instructions, you
must use a different tool, such as a pole pruner.
– If conditions permit, work from a lift bucket.
￭ This lightweight chain saw is equipped with a top handle
and is designed specifically for in-tree surgery and
maintenance. If the operator is not properly secured for
two-hand use when using this saw in a tree, there is an
increased risk of injury from loss of control.
￭ For this reason, this chain saw should be used only for
work in a tree by persons trained in special cutting and
working techniques. This type of chain saw is not
designed for cutting work on the ground, such as felling
and bucking.
￭ Because this chain saw is not intended for use on the
ground, this manual does not contain instructions for
felling trees or for limbing and bucking felled trees. For
instructions on these techniques when using other STIHL
chain saw models, see the instruction manuals for these
other saws or the STIHL Chain Saw Safety Manual, which
is available free of charge online or from your authorized
STIHL dealer.
￭ To reduce the risk of injury:
– Never position yourself directly underneath the
branch you are cutting.
– Watch for falling branches. Keep sufficient distance
away from the falling wood.
When pruning, precut branches when necessary to help
avoid splitting wood or tearing bark.
To cut branches from a standing tree:
B
2
1
A
3
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1
0000-GXX-C576-A0
B
A
8 Basic Working Technique
► Make the first cut (1) on the underside (A) of the branch.
Cut through approximately 1/4 of the diameter of the
branch.
► Make the second cut (2) on the top side (B) of the branch,
directly above the first cut.
► Make the third (finishing) cut (3) closer to the trunk,
leaving adjacent bark firmly attached.
Other acceptable techniques for pruning trees can be found
in ANSI A300.
8.3 Cutting Branches under Tension
A = Compression Side
B = Tension Side
WARNING
￭ There is an increased danger of pinching the chain saw
when cutting branches under tension. The tension in wood
can also release suddenly and with great force, propelling
the limb or chain saw into the saw operator, causing injury
or loss of control.
￭ To reduce the risk of severe or fatal personal injury from
reactive forces, including kickback, or loss of control when
cutting wood under tension:
– Always start with a relieving cut (1) at the
compression side (A) of the branch, and then make
a bucking cut (2) at the tension side (B).
– If a pinch occurs that traps the bar/chain, switch off
the motor, activate the chain brake, remove the
battery and remove the saw from the branch,
exercising caution that the limb does not suddenly
snap or release.
8.4 Blocking - Removing Sections from a Standing
Tree
8.4.1 Conventional Notch
WARNING
￭ These in-tree instructions apply to STIHL top-handle
chain saws, designed exclusively for professional, in-true
use. For basic instructions on felling a tree from the
ground, please see the instruction manual for your STIHL
rear-handle chain saw.
￭ These basic working techniques are not meant to
substitute for the judgment of an experienced professional
with direct knowledge of on-site conditions. A different
type of notch or working technique may be appropriate for
your particular circumstance. Always exercise good
professional judgment and discretion in determining how
to safely complete a cutting task.
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8 Basic Working Technique
A
A
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AABBC
C
0000-GXX-A332-A0
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The notch (A) determines the direction of fall. Make the
notch perpendicular to the desired line of fall. Be aware of
conditions such as wind, tree lean, the slope of the terrain
and other factors that could alter the direction of fall.
For a conventional notch:
► First, cut down at a 45 degree angle to a depth of
approximately 1/5 to 1/4 of the trunk diameter.
► Then make a horizontal cut that meets the bottom of the
first cut.
► Remove the resulting 45 degree piece.
8.4.2 Back Cut
► Begin the back cut (C) on the same level as the bottom of
the notch (A).
► Cut horizontally toward the notch.
► Leave approximately 1/10 of the tree's diameter uncut (B).
This is the hinge.
► Do not cut through the hinge – you could lose control of the
direction of fall.
When removing sections of a tree:
► Make sure all bystanders are clear of the area before
starting work.
► Maintain adequate distance from the nearest structure to
prevent property damage from falling material.
► Take extra precautions in the vicinity of roads, railways
and power lines. Inform the police, utility company or
railway authority before beginning to cut.
WARNING
￭ Never cut through the hinge when making your back cut.
The hinge helps control the fall of the tree. Cutting through
the hinge will eliminate your ability to control the fall and
may result in serious or fatal personal injury or property
damage.
0000-GXX-A336-A0
￭ In order to reduce the risk of personal injury, never
position yourself directly behind the trunk 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 back off the stump.
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9 Battery Safety
￭ Always position yourself and your equipment away from
material being removed.
￭ When the material starts to fall, withdraw the bar and
release the trigger switch. After finishing a cut, activate the
chain brake before changing position in the tree.
WARNING
￭ This chain saw is not designed for cutting large diameter
trees, and using it to cut large diameter trees could result
in an inability to control the fall, which can lead to serious
or fatal personal injury.
￭ Before starting any cutting operation, make sure the saw
you are using has sufficient size, power and run-time to
complete the cutting task efficiently and without recharging. Alternatively, have multiple charged batteries
available for use, select a more powerful chain saw, or
select a more powerful battery.
￭ There are a number of factors that may affect the intended
direction of fall, e.g., wind direction and speed, lean of
tree, surrounding trees and obstacles, sloping ground,
wood structure, or decay.
– To reduce the risk of severe or fatal injury to yourself
or others, look for, analyze and plan for these
conditions prior to beginning the cut.
– Removing portions of a tree with a diameter greater
than the effective cutting length of the guide bar
requires use of special cutting techniques (e.g.,
sectioning method, plunge cut). These methods can
be extremely dangerous because they involve the
use of the nose of the guide bar and can result in
kickback. Only properly trained professionals should
attempt these techniques.
￭ Trees that are split, decayed or rotted inside, or that are
leaning or otherwise under tension, are more likely to snap
or split while being cut, causing serious or fatal injury to
the operator or bystanders.
– Inexperienced users should never attempt to cut
such trees.
– Look for broken or dead branches which could
vibrate loose and fall on the operator. Certain types
of trees are more susceptible to this condition, such
as Douglas firs.
– Always observe and be aware of the general
condition of the tree.
9 Battery Safety
9.1 Warnings and Instructions
WARNING
￭ Read and follow the safety precautions on the battery and
all warnings and instructions that accompany it.
￭ Use of unauthorized batteries can damage the power tool
and result in fire, explosion and personal injury and
property damage.
– Use only genuine STIHL AR or AP series batteries
with this power tool.
￭ Use of STIHL AR or AP series batteries for any purpose
other than powering STIHL power tools could be
extremely dangerous.
– Use STIHL AR and AP series batteries only to power
compatible STIHL power tools.
￭ Use of unauthorized chargers can damage the battery and
result in fire, explosion and personal injury and property
damage.
– Charge STIHL AP series batteries only with genuine
STIHL AL 101, AL 300 or AL 500 series chargers.
– Charge STIHL AR series backpack batteries only
with genuine STIHL AL 300 or AL 500 series
chargers.
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0458-791-8621-C
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