Stihl MSA 220 C Instruction Manual [en, fr]
STIHL MSA 220 C
Instruction Manual
Notice d’emploi
G Instruction Manual
1 - 58
F Notice d’emploi
59 - 122
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
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 IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS
5.1 Intended Use
5.2 Operator
5.3 Personal Protective Equipment
5.4 Chain Saw
5.5 Using the Chain Saw
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6 Kickback and Other Reactive Forces
6.1 Reactive Forces
6.2 Kickback
6.3 Pull-in
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6.4 Pushback
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7 Proper Techniques for Basic Bucking, Limbing,
Pruning and Felling
7.1 Intended Uses
Printing inks contain vegetable oils, paper can be recycled.
7.2 Bucking
7.3 Limbing
7.4 Pruning
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7.5 Cutting Logs Under Tension
7.6 Felling
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8 Battery Safety
8.1 Warnings and Instructions
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9 Maintenance, Repair and Storage
9.1 Warnings and Instructions
10 Before Starting Work
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10.1 Preparing the Chain Saw for Operation
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11 Charging the Battery
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11.1 Setting up the Charger
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11.2 Charging
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12 LED Diagnostics and Acoustic Signals
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12.1 STIHL AP Battery
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12.2 STIHL AR Backpack Battery
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13 STIHL AR Backpack Battery
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13.1 Positioning and Adjusting the Connecting Cord
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13.2 Putting on and Adjusting the Harness
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14 Assembling the Chain Saw
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14.1 Cutting Attachment
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14.2 Mounting and Removing the Guide Bar and
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Chain
14.3 Tensioning the Chain
14.4 Lubricating the Saw Chain and Guide Bar
15 The Chain Brake
15.1 Engaging the Chain Brake
15.2 Disengaging the Chain Brake
15.3 Maintaining the Chain Brake
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16 Inserting and Removing the Battery
16.1 Inserting the Battery
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16.2 Removing the Battery
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17 Switching the Chain Saw On and Off
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17.1 Switching On
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17.2 Switching Off
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18 Checking the Chain Saw
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18.1 Checking the Operation of the Chain Brake
18.2 Testing the Controls
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18.3 Testing Chain Lubrication
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19 After Finishing Work
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19.1 Preparing for Transportation or Storage
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20 Transporting the Chain Saw and Battery
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© ANDREAS STIHL AG & Co. KG 2019
0458-795-8221-A. VA0.C19.
0000008767_001_GB
0458-795-8221-A
This instruction manual is protected by copyright. All rights reserved, especially the rights to reproduce, translate and process
with electronic systems.
1
English
1 Introduction
20.1 Chain Saw
20.2 Battery
21 Storing the Chain Saw and Battery
21.1 Chain Saw
21.2 Battery
22 Cleaning
22.1 Cleaning the Chain Saw and Battery
22.2 Cleaning the Guide Bar and Saw Chain
23 Inspection and Maintenance
23.1 Inspecting and Maintaining the Chain Saw
23.2 Inspecting and Maintaining the Chain Sprocket
23.3 Inspecting and Maintaining the Guide Bar
23.4 Inspecting, Maintaining and Sharpening the Saw
Chain
24 Troubleshooting Guide
24.1 Chain Saw and Battery
25 Specifications
25.1 STIHL MSA 220 C
25.2 Chain Sprockets
25.3 Minimum Groove Depth of Guide Bars
25.4 Depth Gauge Setting
25.5 Symbols on the Chain Saw
25.6 Engineering Improvements
25.7 EMC Compliance Statement for Power Tool and
Charger
26 CSA Standard
26.1 Chain Saw Class
26.2 Definition of the Chain Saw Classes according to
CSA Z62.1
27 Combinations of Guide Bars and Saw Chains
27.1 STIHL MSA 220 C
28 Replacement Parts and Equipment
28.1 Genuine STIHL Replacement Parts
29 Disposal
29.1 Disposal of the Chain Saw
29.2 Battery Recycling
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1 Introduction
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Thank you for your purchase. The information contained in
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this manual will help you receive maximum performance and
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satisfaction from your STIHL chain saw and, if followed,
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reduce the risk of injury from its use.
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SAVE THIS MANUAL!
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Have your authorized STIHL servicing dealer show you how
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to operate your chain saw. All safety precautions that are
generally observed when working with an axe or a hand saw
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also apply to the operation of chain saws. Observe all
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applicable federal, state and local safety regulations,
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standards and ordinances.
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Do not lend or rent your chain saw without this instruction
manual. Allow only persons who have the proper training
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and fully understand the information in this manual to
operate the chain saw.
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For further information, or if you do not understand any of
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the instructions in this manual, please go to www.stihl.ca or
contact your authorized STIHL servicing dealer.
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2 Guide to Using this Manual
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2.1 Signal Words
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This manual contains safety information that requires your
special attention. Such information is introduced with the
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following symbols and signal words:
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.
2
0458-795-8221-A
3 Main Parts
English
DANGER
Indicates a hazardous situation that, if not avoided, will
result in death or serious injury.
WARNING
Indicates a hazardous situation that, if not avoided, could
result in death or serious injury.
NOTICE
Indicates a risk of property damage, including damage to the
machine or its individual components.
2.2 Symbols in Text
The following symbol is included to assist you with the use
of the manual:
Refers to a designated chapter or sub-chapter in this
instruction manual.
3 Main Parts
3.1 Chain Saw and Battery
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11
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12
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0000-GXX-3094-A1
0458-795-8221-A
1 Rear Hand Guard
Helps protect the operator's right hand in the event the
chain breaks or comes off the bar.
2 Chain Sprocket
Drives the saw chain.
3 Tensioning Gear
Shifts the guide bar and tensions or loosens the saw
chain.
3
English
4 Safety Symbols on the Products
4Bumper Spike
Helps hold the saw steady against the wood during
cutting.
5 Saw Chain
Toothed cutting tool consisting of cutters, tie straps and
drive links.
6 Guide Bar
Supports and guides the saw chain.
7 Chain Sprocket Cover
Covers the chain sprocket.
8 Adjusting Wheel
Permits precise adjustment of saw chain tension.
9 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.
10 Wingnut
Tightens the chain sprocket cover to the chain saw.
11 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.
12 Locking Levers
Secure the battery in the battery compartment.
13 Battery Compartment
Holds the battery.
14 Rear Handle
Handle for the operator's right hand.
15 Chain Scabbard
Covers the guide bar and saw chain to reduce the risk of
injury from inadvertent contact during transportation and
storage.
16 Front Handle
Handle for the operator's left hand.
17 Oil Filler Cap
Closes and seals the oil tank.
18 Trigger Switch Lockout
Prevents activation of the trigger switch until depressed.
19 Trigger Switch
Switches the motor on and off.
20 Battery
Supplies electrical power to the motor.
21 Battery LEDs
Indicate the battery's state of charge and display error
messages regarding potential malfunctions in the battery
or power tool.
22 Push Button
Activates the battery's LEDs.
# 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.
Read and follow all safety precautions in the
instruction manual. Improper use can lead to
serious or fatal personal injury or property
damage.
To reduce the risk of serious personal injury and
hearing loss, always wear proper eye protection,
hearing protection and an approved protective
helmet, @ 5.3.
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0458-795-8221-A
5 IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS
English
Avoid contact of the bar tip with any object. This
can cause the bar to kick suddenly up and back,
which may result in serious or fatal injury. Always
use two hands to operate the saw, @ 6.
To reduce the risk of injury or property damage
from unintended activation, remove the battery
any time the saw is not in use, @ 5.5.
4.2 Battery
The following safety symbols are found on the AR series
backpack battery and the AP series battery:
AR Series Backpack Battery and AP Series Battery
To reduce the risk of injury, follow the specified
safety precautions.
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.
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, @ 8.
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), @ 8.
AR Series Backpack Battery only
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, @ 8.
AP Series Battery only
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, @ 8.
Batteries sold separately.
5 IMPORTANT SAFETY
INSTRUCTIONS
5.1 Intended Use
WARNING
￭ This chain saw is designed for cutting small and medium
diameter trees, branches and limbs. It is not designed for
felling large trees or cutting large diameter logs. Use of the
chain saw for operations different than intended could
result in serious injury or death.
– Cut wood only. For example, do not use chain saw
for cutting metal, plastic or masonry.
– Use this chain saw only for light-duty or moderate-
duty cutting tasks.
– Do not use it for any other purposes.
￭ For cutting larger trees, logs or branches, a more
powerful, faster saw may be necessary to reduce the risk
of binding, stalling or other risks caused by a change in
conditions during longer cutting times. This batteryoperated chain saw is not suitable for cutting larger trees
and logs, and its use could lead to a loss of control of the
object being cut and serious personal injury or death.
– Before starting any felling operation, fully charge
your STIHL AP or AR battery.
￭ Before starting any bucking, limbing, pruning or felling
operation, ensure that all necessary cuts can be
completed using the charge remaining in the STIHL AP or
AR series battery. If you are unsure:
– Have multiple charged batteries available for use;
– Select a more powerful chain saw;
0458-795-8221-A
5
English
5 IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS
– Select a more powerful battery; or
– Consult a reputable tree removal professional.
￭ 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.
￭ 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.
￭ 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.
Batteries, chargers and other accessories are sold
separately.
5.2 Operator
WARNING
￭ Working with the chain saw can be strenuous. The
operator must be in good physical condition and mental
health. To reduce the risk of personal injury from fatigue
and loss of control:
– Check with your doctor before using the chain saw if
you have any health condition that may be
aggravated by strenuous work.
– Do not operate the chain saw while under the
influence of any substance (drug, alcohol or
medication, etc.) that might impair vision, balance,
dexterity or judgment.
– Be alert. Do not operate the chain saw when you are
tired. Take a break if you become tired.
– Do not permit minors to use the chain saw.
– Bystanders, especially children, and animals should
not be allowed in the area where the chain saw is in
use.
￭ Prolonged use of a chain saw (or other power tools)
exposing the operator to vibration may produce white
finger disease (Raynaud's phenomenon) or carpal tunnel
syndrome. These conditions reduce the hand's ability to
feel and regulate temperature. They produce numbness
and burning sensations and may also cause nerve and
circulation damage as well as tissue necrosis.
￭ All factors which contribute to white finger disease are not
known. Cold weather, smoking and diseases or physical
conditions that affect blood vessels and blood transport,
as well as high vibration levels and long periods of
exposure to vibration, are mentioned as factors in the
development of white finger disease.
￭ 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.
6
0458-795-8221-A
5 IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS
English
– 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.
5.3 Personal Protective Equipment
WARNING
￭ To reduce the risk of personal injury:
– Always wear proper clothing and protective apparel,
including proper eye protection.
￭ Loss of control and severe cut injuries may result if hair,
clothing or apparel make contact with the moving saw
chain or otherwise become entangled in the components
of the saw. To reduce the risk of severe personal injury:
– Wear sturdy and snug-fitting clothing that
also allows complete freedom of
movement.
– Wear the type of overalls, long pants or
chaps that contain pads of cut-retardant
material.
– Wear a long-sleeve shirt or jacket.
– Avoid loose-fitting jackets, scarves, neckties, flared
or cuffed pants, jewelry and any other apparel that
could be caught on branches, brush or the moving
chain.
– Secure hair above shoulder level before starting
work.
￭ To reduce the risk of eye injury:
– Always wear goggles or close-fitting
protective glasses with adequate top and
side protection that are impact-rated and
marked as complying with CSA Z94.
– To reduce the risk of injury to your face, STIHL
recommends that you also wear a face shield or face
screen over your goggles or protective glasses.
￭ To reduce the risk of head injury from falling branches or
other objects encountered during work:
– Wear an approved protective helmet.
￭ Prolonged exposure to power tool noise may result in
permanent hearing damage. To reduce the risk of hearing
damage:
– Wear sound barriers (ear plugs or ear
muffs).
– Regular operators should have their
hearing checked periodically.
– Be particularly alert and cautious when
using hearing protection. Your ability to
hear shouts, alarms or other audible
warnings is restricted.
￭ Good footing is very important. To help maintain a secure
footing and reduce the risk of injury while working:
– Wear sturdy boots with non-slip soles.
Steel-toed safety boots are
recommended. Do not wear sandals, flipflops, open-toed or similar footwear.
￭ To improve your grip and help protect your hands:
0458-795-8221-A
7
English
5 IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS
– Always wear heavy-duty non-slip work
gloves made of leather or another wearresistant material when handling the
chain saw or its chain.
5.4 Chain Saw
WARNING
￭ 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,"
@ 6.
￭ This battery-powered chain saw is intended only for
cutting small and medium diameter trees, branches and
limbs. Use for other purposes may increase the risk of
personal injury and property damage.
– Do not use the chain saw for felling large trees or
cutting large diameter logs.
– Read and follow the operating instructions in this
manual for approved applications, @ 7.
￭ 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.
￭ 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, @ 18.1.
– Check the LEDs for error messages, @ 12.1.2 or
@ 12.2.2.
– 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.
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￭ 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.
5.5 Using the Chain Saw
5.5.1 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, @ 14.2.1.
￭ 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, @ 27.
– Read and follow the instructions on kickback and
other reactive forces, @ 6.
– Select the shortest bar that will meet your cutting
needs. Longer bars add weight and may be more
difficult to control.
￭ Proper tension of the chain is extremely important to
maximize cutting performance and reduce the risk of
personal injury from chain breakage, derailment or
reactive forces:
– Read and follow the chain tensioning instructions,
@ 14.3.
– Always make sure the chain sprocket cover is
tightened securely after tensioning the chain in order
to secure the bar. Never start the chain saw with the
chain sprocket cover loose or missing.
– Check chain tension once more after tightening the
chain sprocket cover.
– After adjusting the chain, let the motor run for a
minute or two, then 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).
– 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.
￭ Using a chain saw that is 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 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, trigger switch lockout, front hand
guard, chain brake and cutting attachment.
– Ensure that the trigger switch 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.
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5 IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS
– 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, @ 17.1.
￭ 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 rear 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 attempt to 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, @ 17.1.
5.5.2 Holding and Controlling the Chain Saw
WARNING
￭
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￭ To reduce the risk of personal injury from unintentional
starting when grasping the rear handle or carrying the
chain saw:
– Wrap the fingers of your right hand tightly around the
rear handle, identified by shading in the illustration
above (1). Avoid grasping the chain saw outside the
shaded area or 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.
– Place your left hand on the front handle and your
right hand on the rear handle (see illustration
above). Left-handers must follow these instructions
too.
– Wrap your fingers tightly around the handles,
keeping the handles cradled between your thumb
and forefinger.
– Position the chain saw in such a way that all parts of
your body are clear of the cutting attachment
whenever the motor is running. Stand to the left of
the cut while bucking, outside of the cutting plane
(see illustration above).
– Read and follow all warnings and instructions in the
chapter Kickback and Reactive Forces, @ 6.
￭ Operating the chain saw with one hand is extremely
dangerous. One-handed operation makes it difficult to
oppose and absorb reactive forces (pushback, pull-in,
kickback) without losing control of the chain saw. It also
makes it difficult to prevent the bar and chain from skating
or bouncing along a limb or log. To reduce the risk of
serious or fatal injury to the operator or bystanders from
loss of control:
– Never attempt to operate the chain saw
with one hand.
￭ To reduce the risk of serious or fatal cut injuries to the
operator or bystanders from loss of control, keep proper
footing and balance at all times:
– Take special care in overgrown or wet terrain and
always watch for hidden obstacles such as tree
stumps, roots, rocks, holes and ditches to avoid
stumbling.
– Be extremely cautious when working on slopes or
uneven ground.
– For better footing, always clear away fallen
branches, scrub and cuttings. Freshly debarked logs
and other material can increase the danger of
slipping, tripping or falling.
– Use extreme caution when cutting small-size brush,
branches and saplings because slender material
may catch the chain and spring toward you or pull
you off balance.
￭ To reduce the risk of injury from loss of control:
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5 IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS
– Never work on a ladder, roof, in a tree or
while standing on any other insecure
support.
– Never operate the chain saw above
shoulder height.
– Do not overreach. Keep proper footing and balance
at all times.
– Never 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.
￭ 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.
– STIHL recommends that first-time chain saw users
cut logs on a sawhorse.
5.5.3 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., CCOHS) for identifying
and avoiding the hazards of combustible gases,
liquids, vapors, dusts or other combustible materials
and substances.
￭ If a rotating saw 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 Canadian
Forest Service if you have any question about
whether vegetation and weather conditions are
suitable for the use of a chain saw.
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￭ Use of this chain saw (including sharpening the saw
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 ECCC,
CCOHS and PHAC and other authoritative sources
on hazardous materials if you are unfamiliar with the
risks associated with the particular substances you
are cutting or with which you are working.
￭ Inhalation of certain dusts, especially organic dusts such
as mold or pollen, can cause susceptible persons to have
an allergic or asthmatic reaction. Substantial or repeated
inhalation of dust or other airborne contaminants,
especially those with a smaller particle size, may cause
respiratory or other illnesses. This includes wood dust,
especially from hardwoods, but also from some softwoods
such as Western Red Cedar.
– Control dust (such as saw dust) and mists (such as
oil mist from chain lubrication) at the source where
possible.
– Always work with a properly sharpened saw 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.,
CCOHS/PHAC) 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
CCOHS and ECCC.
– 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 ECCC, your
employer or local CCOHS representative if you
have reason to believe that you might be disturbing
asbestos.
￭ Repeated contact with waste oil can cause skin cancer
and its use is harmful to the environment.
– Do not use waste oil to lubricate the bar and chain of
your STIHL chain saw.
5.5.4 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.
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6 Kickback and Other Reactive Forces
￭ 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.
– 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.
6 Kickback and Other Reactive Forces
6.1 Reactive Forces
WARNING
￭ Reactive forces may occur any time the chain is rotating.
Reactive forces can cause serious or fatal personal injury.
￭ The powerful forces used to cut wood can be reversed and
work against the operator. If the rotating saw chain is
suddenly and significantly slowed or stopped by contact
with any solid object such as a log or branch or is pinched,
the reactive forces may occur instantly.
￭ These reactive forces may result in loss of control, which,
in turn, may cause serious or fatal injury.
– An understanding of the causes of these reactive
forces may help you avoid the element of surprise
and loss of control. Surprise contributes to
accidents.
The most common reactive forces are:
– Kickback
– Pull-in
– Pushback
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6.2 Kickback
6.2.1 Kickback
WARNING
Kickback may occur when the moving chain near
the upper quadrant of the bar nose contacts a
solid object or is pinched.
￭ When this occurs, the energy driving the chain can create
a force that moves the chain saw in a direction opposite to
the chain movement at the point where the chain is slowed
or stopped. This may fling the bar up and back in a
lightning fast reaction mainly in the plane of the bar and
can cause severe or fatal injury to the operator.
￭ Kickback may occur, for example, when the chain near the
upper quadrant of the bar nose contacts the wood or is
pinched during limbing or when it is incorrectly used to
begin a plunge or boring cut.
￭ The greater the force of the kickback reaction, the more
difficult it becomes for the operator to control the chain
saw. Many factors influence the occurrence and force of
the kickback reaction. These include chain speed, the
speed at which the bar and chain contact the object, the
location and angle of contact, the condition of the chain,
and how quickly the chain is slowed or stopped, among
other factors.
– The type of bar and chain you use is an important
factor in the occurrence and force of the kickback
reaction. Some STIHL bar and chain types are
designed to reduce kickback forces.
– STIHL recommends the use of reduced kickback
bars and low kickback chains.
6.2.2 Chain Saw Kickback Standards
The following standards apply with respect to kickback:
– CSA Z62.1
– CSA Z62.3
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 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 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 saw chain will rotate at most 45°
in a real life kickback.
￭ The computer-derived angles of the chain saw standards
may bear no relationship to actual kickback bar rotation
angles that may occur in a real life cutting situation.
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￭ 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,"
@ 27;
– Other replacement bar and saw chain combinations
marked in accordance with the standards for use on
the chain saw; or
– Replacement saw chain designated "low kickback
saw chain."
6.2.3 Devices for Reducing the Risk of Kickback Injury
The STIHL Quickstop chain brake and STIHL's greenlabeled, reduced kickback bars and green-labeled, low
kickback chains are designed to reduce the risk of kickback
injury.
1. STIHL Quickstop Chain Brake
6 Kickback and Other Reactive Forces
0000-GXX-1890-A0
There are two mechanisms for activating the chain brake if
it is in a properly maintained condition:
– Manual Activation: If a kickback occurs, the chain saw
moves upwards toward the user in a rotating motion
around the front handle. The brake is designed to engage
if the left hand contacts the front hand guard, which is the
activation lever for the brake, and pushes it forward.
– Inertia Activation: All STIHL chain saws are equipped with
an inertia Quickstop chain brake. If the kickback impulse
is strong enough, this alone is sufficient to engage the
brake even without contacting the front hand guard.
WARNING
￭ To reduce the risk of kickback injury:
– Never use a saw if the chain brake does not function
properly.
– When in doubt, take the saw to an authorized STIHL
servicing dealer for inspection and/or repair.
– Do not use the saw until the problem has been
corrected.
￭ In a kickback situation, the front hand guard helps protect
your left hand from contacting the chain. Removal of the
front hand guard on a chain saw equipped with a
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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:
– 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", @ 5.5.2.
– Maintain as much distance as possible, and never
less than 45 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
@ 7.
￭ An improperly maintained chain brake may increase the
time needed to stop the chain after activation, or may not
activate at all. For the Quickstop 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, @ 15.1, and
maintaining and repairing it, @ 15.3.
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.
2. Low Kickback Saw Chain and Reduced Kickback Bars
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6 Kickback and Other Reactive Forces
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 CSA Z62.3 when tested
according to the provisions specified in CSA Z62.3.
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
been specifically certified to comply with the 45°
computer-derived kickback angle of the chain saw
standards.
– STIHL recommends green-labeled bars and green-
labeled chains for all chain saws and all users.
– Please see your STIHL Bar and Chain Information
leaflet for the appropriate bar and chain
combinations for your saw.
– Please ask your authorized STIHL servicing dealer
to properly match your chain saw with the
appropriate bar and chain combination to reduce the
risk of kickback injury.
￭ A blunt or incorrectly sharpened chain may reduce or
negate the effectiveness of design features intended to
reduce the propensity for kickback and kickback energies.
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, @ 23.4.
￭ 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.
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6 Kickback and Other Reactive Forces
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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, @ 27.
6.2.4 To Avoid Kickback
The best protection from personal injury that may result from
kickback is to avoid kickback situations:
1)Hold the chain saw firmly and with both hands and
maintain a secure grip, with your right hand on the rear
handle and left hand on the front handle. Maintain a
secure grip with thumbs and fingers encircling the chain
saw handles. Don't let go.
2)Make sure the area in which you are cutting is free from
obstructions.
3)Be aware of the location of the guide bar nose at all times.
Never let the nose of the guide bar unintentionally contact
any object. Do not cut limbs with the nose of the guide bar.
Be especially careful near wire fences and when cutting
small, tough limbs, small size brush and saplings which
may easily catch the saw chain.
4)Do not overreach.
5)Do not cut above shoulder height.
6)Begin cutting and continue at full speed.
7)Cut only one log at a time.
8)Use extreme caution when re-entering a previous cut.
9)Do not attempt to plunge cut if you are not experienced
with this cutting technique.
10)Be alert for shifting of the log or other forces that may
cause the cut to close and pinch the saw chain.
11)Maintain saw chain properly. Cut with a correctly
sharpened, properly tensioned saw chain at all times.
12)Stand to the side of the cutting path of the chain saw.
13)Use only replacement bars and chains specified by
STIHL, or the equivalent.
6.3 Pull-in
WARNING
￭ Pull-in occurs when the chain on the bottom of the bar is
suddenly stopped or significantly slowed when it is
pinched, caught or encounters a foreign object in the
wood. The reaction of the chain pulls the saw forward and
may cause the operator to lose control, which, in turn, may
cause serious or fatal injury. If the tip contacts an object,
kickback may occur.
￭ Pull-in usually occurs when the bumper spike of the saw
is not held securely against the tree or limb and when the
chain is not rotating at full speed before it contacts the
wood.
￭ To reduce the risk of pull-in:
– Cut with a sharp, properly tensioned chain.
– Always start a cut with the chain rotating at full speed
and with the bumper spike in contact with the wood.
– Use wedges to open the kerf or cut, where possible.
– Use extreme caution when cutting small-size brush
and saplings which may easily catch the chain,
spring towards you or pull you off balance.
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7 Proper Techniques for Basic Bucking, Limbing, Pruning and Felling
6.4 Pushback
WARNING
￭ Pushback occurs when the chain on the top of the bar is
suddenly stopped or significantly slowed when it is
pinched, caught or encounters a foreign object in the
wood. The reaction of the chain may drive the saw rapidly
straight back toward the operator, causing loss of control
which, in turn, may cause serious or fatal injury.
￭ Pushback usually occurs when the top of the bar is used
for cutting.
￭ To reduce the risk of pushback:
– Be alert to forces or situations that may cause
material to pinch or bind the top of the chain.
– Do not cut more than one log at a time.
– Do not twist the chain saw when withdrawing the bar
from an underbuck cut because the chain can pinch
or bind.
– Cut with a sharp, properly tensioned chain.
7 Proper Techniques for Basic Bucking,
Limbing, Pruning and Felling
7.1 Intended Uses
WARNING
￭ This chain saw is not designed for felling large trees or
cutting large diameter logs.
￭ For cutting larger trees, logs or branches, a larger, more
powerful and faster saw may be necessary to reduce the
risk of binding, stalling or a change in conditions during
longer cutting times. Interruption of cutting speeds or a
loss of power during a felling or limbing operation can
result in an inability to control the fall of a tree or limb, and
can lead to serious or fatal personal injury.
￭ Before starting any felling, limbing, bucking or pruning
operation, fully charge your STIHL AP or AR battery.
￭ Before starting any bucking, limbing, pruning or felling
operation, ensure that all necessary cuts can be
completed using the charge remaining in the STIHL AP or
AR series battery. If you are unsure:
– Have multiple charged batteries available for use;
– Select a more powerful chain saw;
– Select a more powerful battery; or
– Consult a reputable tree removal professional.
￭ 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 the cut while bucking, outside
of the cutting plane.
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7.2 Bucking
Bucking is cutting a log into sections.
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￭ When cutting smaller logs, make sure the log is properly
￭ Failing to control the saw at the bottom of a bucking cut
WARNING
￭ Be aware of rolling logs. Rolling logs can cause serious or
fatal personal injury. To prevent a log from rolling while
bucking:
– Make sure the log is secure and will not roll downhill
before starting your cut. If necessary, use sturdy
wedges, shims or chocks.
– If on a slope, always stand on the uphill side of the
log.
– Never stand on the log.
￭ To reduce the risk of kickback caused by contacting the
nose of the guide bar with other logs or limbs:
– Cut only one log at a time.
– Do not cut logs in a pile.
￭ When cutting splintered wood, sharp slivers of wood may
be caught and flung in the direction of the operator of the
saw or bystanders.
– Use caution when cutting splintered wood and
always wear appropriate apparel and personal
protective equipment, including eye protection.
– Keep bystanders out of the work area.
When bucking:
► Position the bumper spike of the saw against the log and
► Continually repositioning the bumper spike while pushing
7.3 Limbing
Limbing is removing the branches from a fallen tree.
English
supported to reduce the risk of personal injury from loss of
control of the chain saw or movement of the log. Small
logs can move when contacted by the teeth of the chain:
– Place logs through "V-shaped" supports on top of a
sawhorse whenever possible.
– Never permit another person to hold the log.
– Never stabilize the log with your leg or foot.
can cause severe personal injury or death.
– Prepare the saw to exit the bottom of the cut by
reducing the feed force you exert on the saw.
– Cushion the weight of the saw so that the bar and
chain are not thrust downward into your lower body
and legs as the bar/chain exits the cut.
use it as a fulcrum.
the guide bar completely through the log.
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7 Proper Techniques for Basic Bucking, Limbing, Pruning and Felling
WARNING
￭ To prevent a log from rolling while limbing:
– Start limbing by leaving the limbs on the lower,
downhill side of the log to hold the log off the ground.
– Stabilize the log with sturdy wedges, shims or
chocks, if necessary.
– Never stand on a log while limbing it.
￭ There is an increased danger of kickback during limbing
operations, as limbs, leaves, stems and other material can
entangle (bind) the cutters of the chain in the upper
quadrant of the bar nose, causing the chain to slow or stop
suddenly.
– Do not use the nose of the bar to cut limbs.
– Be extremely cautious and avoid contacting the log,
the ground, other limbs and any leafy materials with
the nose of the guide bar.
￭ When underbucking freely hanging limbs, a pinch may
result or the limb may fall, hitting the operator or the chain
saw and causing loss of control.
– If a pinch occurs that traps or holds the bar or chain,
switch off the motor, activate the chain brake and
remove the battery from the saw before attempting
to remove the saw from the cut, exercising caution
that the limb does not suddenly snap or release.
￭ Limbs or logs under tension (spring poles) can spring back
toward you with great force, striking you or causing you to
lose control of the saw, resulting in severe or fatal injury.
– Be extremely cautious when cutting limbs or logs
that may be under tension.
– Read and follow the warnings and instructions on
cutting logs under tension, @ 7.5.
When limbing:
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► Rest the chain saw on the log.
► Stand on the side of the log opposite the limb to be cut if
it can be done safely.
► Push the guide bar at full throttle with a hinge motion
against the branch.
► Cut the branch with the top or the bottom side of the guide
bar, keeping the tip of the bar free of the log, the ground,
other limbs and any leafy materials.
7.4 Pruning
Pruning is selectively removing branches from a standing
tree.
WARNING
￭ To reduce the risk of injury from loss of control:
– Do not use the chain saw one-handed.
– Never work on a ladder, on a roof, in a tree or while
standing on any other insecure support.
– Never operate the chain saw above shoulder height
or cut overhead.
– Do not overreach.
– If you are unable to follow these instructions, you
must use a different tool, such as a pole pruner, or
have the work performed by a reputable tree service.
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2
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￭ To reduce the risk of injury:
– Never stand directly underneath the branch you are
cutting.
– Watch for falling branches. As soon as the branch
starts to fall, step aside and keep a sufficient
distance away from the falling wood. A branch may
spring back at you after it hits the ground.
– Prior to beginning work, clear the work area of limbs
and brush to reduce the risk of tripping and losing
control of the chain saw.
To cut branches from a standing tree:
2
1
► Make the first cut (1) on the underside of the branch,
approximately 2 in. (5 cm) from the trunk. Cut through
approximately 1/4 of the diameter of the branch. This will
help prevent the branch from splintering after it is cut.
► Make the second cut (2) on the top side of the branch,
approximately 2 in. (5 cm) from the first cut.
► As soon as the branch starts to fall, withdraw the chain
saw and let the branch fall to the ground.
7.5 Cutting Logs Under Tension
WARNING
￭ There is an increased danger of pinching the chain saw
when cutting logs under tension. The tension in wood can
also release suddenly and with great force, propelling the
log, limb or chain saw into the saw operator, causing injury
or loss of control.
￭ To reduce the risk of severe or fatal personal injury from
reactive forces, including kickback, or loss of control when
cutting wood under tension:
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– Always start with a relieving cut (1) at the
compression side of the log, and then make a
bucking cut (2) at the tension side.
– If a pinch occurs that traps the bar/chain, switch off
the motor, activate the chain brake, remove the
battery and remove the saw from the log, exercising
caution that the limb does not suddenly snap or
release.
￭ Working in areas where logs, limbs and roots are tangled
is extremely dangerous.
– Drag the logs, limbs and other material to be cut into
a clear area before cutting. Pull out exposed and
cleared logs first. Do not cut where the tip of the bar
may come into contact with other logs, limbs or leafy
material.
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7 Proper Techniques for Basic Bucking, Limbing, Pruning and Felling
7.6 Felling
7.6.1 Felling Conditions Felling is cutting down a tree. Before felling a tree, carefully
consider all of the conditions that may affect the direction of
fall.
WARNING
￭ This chain saw is not designed for felling large trees, and
using it to cut large trees could result in an inability to
control the fall of the tree or limb, and can lead to serious
or fatal personal injury.
￭ Before starting the felling operation, make sure the saw
you are using has sufficient size, power and run time to
complete the felling operation efficiently and without recharging. Alternatively, have multiple charged batteries
available for use, select a more powerful chain saw, select
a more powerful battery, or consult a reputable tree
removal professional.
￭ There are a number of factors that may affect and change
the intended direction of fall, e.g. wind direction and
speed, lean of tree, surrounding trees and obstacles,
sloping ground, one-sided limb or foliage structure, wood
structure, decay, snow load, etc.
– To reduce the risk of severe or fatal injury to yourself
or others, look for, analyze and plan for these
conditions prior to beginning the cut, and be alert for
a change in direction while the tree is falling.
￭ Felling a tree that has a diameter greater than twice the
effective cutting length of the guide bar requires use of
either the sectioning felling back cut or plunge-cut
method. Neither of these cutting techniques is
recommended for this model chain saw. These methods
can be extremely dangerous because they involve the use
of the nose of the guide bar and can result in kickback.
Only properly trained professionals should attempt these
techniques. If you are inexperienced with a chain saw,
plunge-cutting should not be attempted. Seek the help of
a qualified professional.
￭ Never attempt to cut a large diameter tree with a chain
saw that lacks sufficient size, power or run-time to
complete the task efficiently.
￭ Trees that are split, decayed or rotted inside or that are
leaning or otherwise under tension are more likely to snap
or split while being cut, causing serious or fatal injury to
the operator or bystanders.
– Always observe and be aware of the general
condition of the tree.
– Inexperienced users should never attempt to cut
such trees.
– Also look for broken or dead branches which could
vibrate loose and fall on the operator during the
felling operation. Certain types of trees are more
susceptible to this condition, such as Douglas firs.
You should check with a reputable tree service if you
have questions about the stability of the trees you
will be cutting.
– When felling on a slope, the operator should stand
on the uphill side if possible.
When felling:
1 1
► Maintain a distance of at least 2 1/2 tree lengths from the
nearest person or structure.
► Take extra precautions in the vicinity of roads, railways
and power lines. Inform the police, utility company or
railway authority before beginning to cut.
1
2
/
1
2
2
/
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7.6.2 Escape Path
Before making your first cut, prepare an escape path:
B
B
► First clear limbs and brush from the area around the base
of the tree. Remove vegetation from the lower portion of
the tree with an axe.
► Next, establish at least two clear paths of escape (B) and
remove any obstacles such as brush, small trees and
other vegetation. These paths should lead away from the
planned direction of the tree's fall (A) at a 45° angle from
the expected fall line. Place all tools and equipment a safe
distance away from the tree, but not on the escape paths.
7.6.3 Conventional Notch
For a conventional notch:
► The felling notch determines the direction of the tree's fall.
Make the felling notch perpendicular to the line of fall you
have determined, close to the ground.
► Be aware of conditions such as wind, limb and foliage
structure, tree lean, the slope of the terrain and other
factors that could alter the direction of fall.
► Cut down at a 45° angle to a depth of approximately 1/5 to
1/4 of the trunk diameter.
► Make a horizontal cut that meets the bottom of the first cut.
► Remove the resulting 45° piece. The size of the wedge will
vary by tree size. The larger the tree, the larger the wedge.
This model chain saw is not intended for felling large
diameter trees.
7.6.4 Open-faced Notch
For an open-faced notch:
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► The felling notch determines the direction of the tree's fall.
Make the felling notch perpendicular to the line of fall you
have determined, close to the ground.
► Be aware of conditions such as wind, limb and foliage
structure, tree lean, slope of the terrain and other factors
that could alter the direction of fall.
► Cut down at a 50° angle to a depth of approximately 1/5 to
1/4 of the trunk diameter.
► Make a second cut that meets the bottom of the first cut
from below at a 40° angle.
► Remove the resulting 90° piece. The size of the wedge will
vary by tree size. The larger the tree, the larger the wedge.
This model chain saw is not intended for felling large
diameter trees.
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D
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7 Proper Techniques for Basic Bucking, Limbing, Pruning and Felling
7.6.5 Sapwood Cuts
Sapwood cuts help prevent soft woods in summer from
splintering when they fall:
► Make cuts at both sides of the trunk, at the same height as
the subsequent felling back cut.
► Cut to no more than width of guide bar.
7.6.6 Felling Back Cut
WARNING
￭ If the tip of the bar contacts a wedge that has been used
to help keep the kerf or cut open, it may cause kickback.
Wedges should be of wood or plastic and never steel,
which can damage the chain.
￭ Whichever felling method you select, never cut through
the hinge when making your felling back cut. The hinge
helps control the fall of the tree. Cutting through the hinge
will eliminate the feller's ability to control the tree's fall and
may result in serious or fatal personal injury or property
damage.
￭ In order to reduce the risk of personal injury, never stand
directly behind the tree when it is about to fall, since part
of the trunk may split and come back towards the operator
(barber-chairing), or the tree may jump backwards off the
stump.
￭ Always keep to the side of the falling tree. When the tree
starts to fall, withdraw the bar, release the trigger switch,
engage the chain brake and walk away briskly on the pre-
planned escape path.
￭ Watch out for limbs falling from the felled tree.
￭ Be extremely careful with partially fallen trees. When the
tree hangs or for some other reason does not fall
completely, set the saw aside and pull the tree to the
ground with a cable winch, block and tackle or tractor.
Trying to cut it down with your saw is extremely dangerous
and may result in serious or fatal injury. Trees of this
nature can fall suddenly and often are under tension.
The tree is brought down with the felling back cut (D).
For both conventional and open-faced notches:
► Begin 1 to 2 in. (2.5 to 5 cm) higher than the bottom of the
felling notch.
► Cut horizontally toward the felling notch.
► Leave approximately 1/10 of the diameter of the tree
uncut. This is the hinge (E) that will help control the fall of
the tree.
► Do not cut through the hinge because you could lose
control of the direction of the fall.
► If necessary, wedges can be driven into the felling back
cut to keep the cut open and to help control the direction
of the fall. For example, if a tree tends to "sit back,"
causing a bind of the saw, wedges can be used to re-
position it.
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This model chain saw is not intended for felling large
diameter trees.
7.6.7 Fan Cut
Use the simple fan cut for making the felling back cut on
trees with a diameter less than the effective cutting length of
the guide bar.
► After creating the felling notch, engage the bumper spikes
of the chain saw directly behind the location of the
intended hinge and 1 to 2 in. (2.5 to 5 cm) higher than the
bottom of the felling notch. Pivot the saw around this point
only as far as the back of the hinge. Do not cut through the
hinge. The bumper spike should roll against the trunk until
the back cut is complete.
8 Battery Safety
8.1 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
0000-GXX-1441-A1
￭ The battery contains safety features and devices which, if
￭ High temperatures may cause the battery to generate
chargers.
damaged, may allow the battery to generate heat, rupture,
leak, ignite or explode.
– Never heat the battery above 212 °F
(100 °C).
– Never incinerate or place the battery on
or near fires, stoves or other hightemperature locations.
– Never use or charge a malfunctioning, damaged,
cracked, leaking or deformed battery.
– Never open, disassemble, crush, drop, subject to
heavy impact or otherwise damage the battery.
– Never expose the battery to microwaves or high
pressures.
– Never insert objects into the battery's cooling slots.
heat, rupture, leak, ignite or explode, resulting in severe or
fatal personal injury and property damage. Exposure to
temperatures outside the recommended temperature
range may also reduce battery life and performance.
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8 Battery Safety
– Use and store the battery only within an
ambient temperature range of 14 °F to
122 °F (-10 °C to 50 °C).
– Never store the battery in direct sunlight
or inside a vehicle in hot weather.
￭ To reduce the risk of personal injury and property damage
in the event the battery emits smoke, an unusual smell or
feels unusually hot while using, charging or storing:
– Immediately discontinue using or charging the
battery. Contact the authorities in the event of fire or
explosion.
￭ To reduce the risk of a short circuit, which could lead to
electric shock, fire and explosion:
– Keep the STIHL AR series backpack
battery dry. Protect it from rain, water
and other liquids.
– Attach the rain cover to the STIHL AR
series battery before starting work in rain
or in very damp conditions.
– If a STIHL AP series battery has been
exposed to rain during work, remove it
from the battery bag and allow it to dry
indoors. Make sure it is completely dry
before charging or use.
– Never immerse any STIHL battery in
water or other liquids.
– Never bridge the battery terminals with wires or
other metallic objects.
– Keep a battery that is not in use away from metal
objects (e.g., paper clips, nails, coins, keys).
– Never transport or store the battery in a metal
container.
– Store the battery indoors in a dry room.
– Never store the battery in damp or corrosive
environments or in conditions that could lead to
corrosion of its metal components.
– Protect the battery from exposure to corrosive
agents such as garden chemicals and de-icing salts.
– Protect the battery from exposure to conductive
liquids such as salt water.
– Do not attempt to repair, open or disassemble the
battery. There are no user-serviceable parts inside.
￭ Leaking battery fluid is potentially harmful and can cause
skin and eye irritation, chemical burns and other serious
personal injury.
– Avoid contact with skin and eyes.
– Use an inert absorbent such as sand on spilled
battery fluid.
– In the event of accidental contact, immediately rinse
the contact area thoroughly with mild soap and
water.
– If fluid gets into your eye(s): do not rub. Rinse water
over the open eye(s) for at least 15 minutes and
seek medical attention.
￭ A battery fire can be dangerous. To reduce the risk of
severe personal injury and property damage in the event
of fire:
– Evacuate the area. Fire can spread rapidly. Stay
clear of any vapors generated and maintain a safe
distance.
– Contact the fire department.
– Although water can be used to put out a battery fire,
use of a multi-purpose dry chemical fire extinguisher
is preferable.
– Consult the fire department regarding proper
disposal of a burned battery.
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