Stihl MSE 140 C, MSE 160 C, MSE 180 C, MSE 200 C Instruction Manual [en, es]
STIHL MSE 140 C, 160 C, 180 C, 200 C
{
Instruction Manual
Manual de instrucciones
WARNING
To reduce the risk of kickback injury
use STIHL reduced kickback bar and
STIHL PM3 (3/8" Picco) chain depending on
sprocket pitch or other available low kickback
components.
ADVERTENCIA
Para reducir el riesgo de lesionarse
como resultado de un culatazo, utilice
la barra de contragolpe reducido y la cadena
PM3 (Picco de 3/8 pulg) de STIHL,
dependiendo de la rueda dentada usada y de
otros componentes reductores de contragolpe.
Read and follow all safety precautions in
Instruction Manual – improper use can cause
serious or fatal injury.
Lea y siga todas las precauciones de
seguridad dadas en el manual de
instrucciones – el uso incorrecto puede causar
lesiones graves o mortales.
Instruction Manual
1 - 42
Manual de instrucciones
43 - 90
Contents
English
Guide to Using this Manual 2
Safety Precautions for Chain Saw
Users 2
Safety Precautions and Working
Techniques 4
Cutting Attachment 20
Mounting the Bar and Chain (front
chain tensioner) 20
Mounting the Bar and Chain (side
Original Instruction ManualPrinted on chlorine-free paper
chain tensioner) 21
Mounting the Bar and Chain (quick
chain tensioner) 22
Tensioning the Saw Chain (front
chain tensioner) 24
Tensioning the Saw Chain (side
chain tensioner) 25
Tensioning the Saw Chain (quick
chain tensioner) 25
Checking Chain Tension 25
Chain Lubricant 26
Filling Chain Oil Tank 26
Checking Chain Lubrication 27
Coasting Brake 27
Printing inks contain vegetable oils, paper can be recycled.
Chain Brake 27
Connecting to Power Supply 28
Switching On 29
Switching Off 29
Overload Cutout 29
Operating Instructions 30
Taking Care of the Guide Bar 31
Motor Cooling 31
Storing the Machine 32
Checking and Replacing the Chain
Sprocket 32
Maintaining and Sharpening the
Saw Chain 33
Maintenance and Care 37
Main Parts 38
Specifications 39
Special Accessories 40
Ordering Spare Parts 40
Maintenance and Repairs 41
Disposal 41
Trademarks 41
Addresses 42
Allow only persons who fully understand
this manual to operate your chain saw.
To receive maximum performance and
satisfaction from your STIHL chain saw,
it is important that you read, understand
and follow the safety precautions and
the operating and maintenance
instructions in chapter "Safety
Precautions and Working Techniques"
before using your chain saw. For further
information you can go to
www.stihlusa.com.
Contact your STIHL dealer or the STIHL
distributor for your area if you do not
understand any of the instructions in this
manual.
WARNING
Because a chain saw is a high-speed
wood-cutting tool, some special safety
precautions must be observed as with
any other power saw to reduce the risk
of personal injury. Careless or improper
use may cause serious or even fatal
injury.
{
© ANDREAS STIHL AG & Co. KG, 2013
0458-181-8621. VA6.A13.
0000001916_006_GB
MSE 140 C, MSE 160 C, MSE 180 C, MSE 200 C
This instruction manual is protected by copyright. All rights reserved, especially the rights to reproduce, translate and process
with electronic systems.
1
English
Guide to Using this Manual Safety Precautions for Chain
Pictograms
All the pictograms attached to or
embossed on the machine are shown
and explained in this manual.
Symbols in Text
Many operating and safety instructions
are supported by illustrations.
The individual steps or procedures
described in the manual may be marked
in different ways:
N A bullet marks a step or procedure.
A description of a step or procedure that
refers directly to an illustration may
contain item numbers that appear in the
illustration. Example:
N Loosen the screw (1).
N Lever (2) ...
In addition to the operating instructions,
this manual may contain paragraphs
that require your special attention. Such
paragraphs are marked with the
symbols and signal words described
below:
WARNING
Indicates a hazardous situation which, if
not avoided, could result in severe or
fatal injury.
NOTICE
Indicates a risk of property damage,
including damage to the machine or its
individual components.
Engineering Improvements
STIHL’s philosophy is to continually
improve all of its products. As a result,
engineering changes and improvements
are made from time to time. Therefore,
some changes, modifications and
improvements may not be covered in
this manual. If the operating
characteristics or the appearance of
your machine differs from those
described in this manual, please contact
your STIHL dealer for assistance.
Saw Users
A. Kickback Safety Precautions
WARNING
Kickback may occur when the nose or
tip of the guide bar touches an object, or
when the wood closes in and pinches
the saw chain in the cut. Tip contact in
some cases may cause a lightning fast
reverse reaction, kicking the guide bar
up and back towards the operator.
Pinching the saw chain along the top of
the guide bar may push the guide bar
rapidly back towards the operator. Either
of these reactions may cause you to lose
control of the saw which could result in
serious personal injury.
Section 5.11 of ANSI B 175.1-2000 sets
certain performance and design criteria
related to chainsaw kickback. STIHL has
developed a color code system using
green and yellow to help you select a
powerhead, bar and chain combination
that complies with the kickback
requirements of the ANSI Standard. See
the sections entitled "Safety
Precautions" and "Specifications" of this
manual.
DANGER
Indicates an imminent risk of severe or
fatal injury.
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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.
1. With a basic understanding of
kickback, you can reduce or
eliminate the element of surprise.
Sudden surprise contributes to
accidents.
2. Keep a good firm grip on the saw
with both hands, the right hand on
the rear handle, and the left hand on
the front handle, when the motor is
running. Use a firm grip with thumbs
and fingers encircling the chain saw
handles. A firm grip will help you
reduce kickback and maintain
control of the saw. Don't let go.
3. Make sure the area in which you are
cutting is free from obstructions. Do
not let the nose of the guide bar
contact a log, branch, or any other
obstruction while you are operating
the saw.
4. Cut at high motor speeds.
5. Do not overreach or cut above
shoulder height.
6. Follow manufacturer's sharpening
and maintenance instructions for
the saw chain.
7. Only use replacement bars and
chains specified by the
manufacturer or the equivalent.
B. Other Safety Precautions
1. Do not operate a chain saw with one
hand! Serious injury to the operator,
helpers, bystanders, or any
combination of these persons may
result from one-handed operation. A
chain saw is intended to be used
with two hands.
2. Do not operate a chain saw when
you are fatigued.
3. Use safety footwear; snug-fitting
clothing; protective gloves; and eye,
hearing, and head protection
devices.
4. Do not allow other persons to be
near the chain saw when starting or
cutting with the chain saw. Keep
bystanders and animals out of the
work area.
5. Do not start cutting until you have a
clear work area, secure footing, and
a planned retreat path from the
falling tree.
6. Keep all parts of your body away
from the saw chain when the motor
is running.
7. Before you switch on the motor,
make sure that the saw chain is not
contacting anything.
8. Carry the chain saw with the motor
stopped, the guide bar and saw
chain to the rear.
9. Do not operate a chain saw that is
damaged, improperly adjusted, or
not completely and securely
assembled.
10. Shut off the motor before setting the
chain saw down.
11. Use extreme caution when cutting
small size brush and saplings
because slender material may catch
the saw chain and be whipped
toward you or pull you off balance.
12. When cutting a limb that is under
tension be alert for springback so
that you will not be struck when the
tension in the wood fibers is
released.
13. Keep the handles dry, clean, and
free of oil.
14. Do not operate a chain saw in a tree
unless you have been specifically
trained to do so.
15. All chain saw service, other than the
items listed in the Owner's Manual
maintenance instructions, should be
performed by competent chainsaw
service personnel.
16. When transporting your chain saw,
use the appropriate chain guard
(scabbard).
17. Reduced kickback bars and low
kickback chains are designed to
reduce the risk of kickback injury.
Ask your STIHL dealer about these
devices.
Other important safety precautions are
contained in the body of the Owner's
Manual.
Note:
When using a chain saw for logging
purposes, refer to the Code of Federal
Regulations, Parts 1910 and 1928.
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Safety Precautions and
Working Techniques
The use of any chain saw
may be hazardous. The
saw chain has many
sharp cutters. If the cutters contact your flesh,
they will cut you, even if
the chain is not moving.
Maximum chain speed in
the on position can reach
45 mph (20 m/s).
It is important that you
read, fully understand
and observe the following
safety precautions and
warnings. Read the
instruction manual and
the safety precautions
periodically. Pay special
attention to the section on
reactive forces.
WARNING
Reactive forces, including kickback, can
be dangerous. Careless or improper use
of any chain saw may cause serious or
fatal injury.
All safety precautions that are generally
observed when working with an axe or a
hand saw also apply to the operation of
chain saws. However, because a chain
saw is a high-speed, fast-cutting power
tool, special safety precautions must be
observed to reduce the risk of personal
injury.
Have your STIHL dealer show you how
to operate your chain saw. Observe all
applicable local safety regulations,
standards and ordinances.
WARNING
Minors should never be allowed to use a
chain saw. Bystanders, especially
children, and animals should not be
allowed in the area where a chain saw is
in use. Store it in a locked place away
from children. Do not let bystanders
contact chain saw or extension cord.
Do not lend or rent your chain saw
without the instruction manual. Be sure
that anyone using your saw reads and
understands the information contained
in this manual.
These safety precautions and warnings
apply to the use of all STIHL chain saws.
Different models may have different
parts and controls. See the appropriate
section of your instruction manual for a
description of the controls and function
of the parts of your model saw.
Safe use of a chain saw involves
1 the operator
2 the saw
3 the use of the saw.
THE OPERATOR
Physical Condition
You must be in good physical condition
and mental health and not under the
influence of any substance (drugs,
alcohol) which might impair vision,
dexterity or judgement.
Do not operate a chain saw when you
are fatigued. Be alert – If you get tired
while operating your chain saw, take a
break. Tiredness may result in loss of
control. Working with any chain saw can
be strenuous. If you have any condition
that might be aggravated by strenuous
work, check with your doctor before
operating a chain saw.
WARNING
Prolonged use of chain saws (or other
machines) exposing the operator to
vibrations may produce whitefinger
disease (Raynaud's phenomenon) or
carpal tunnel syndrome.
These conditions reduce the hand's
ability to feel and regulate temperature,
produce numbness and burning
sensations and may cause nerve and
circulation damage and tissue necrosis.
All factors which contribute to
whitefinger disease are not known, but
cold weather, smoking and diseases or
physical conditions that affect blood
vessels and blood transport, as well as
high vibration levels and long periods of
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exposure to vibration are mentioned as
factors in the development of whitefinger
disease. In order to reduce the risk of
whitefinger disease and carpal tunnel
syndrome, please note the following:
– Wear gloves and keep your hands
warm.
– Keep the saw chain sharp and the
saw well maintained. A dull chain
will increase cutting time, and
pressing a dull chain through wood
will increase the vibrations
transmitted to your hands. A saw
with loose components will also
tend to have higher vibration levels.
– Maintain a firm grip at all times, but
do not squeeze the handles with
constant, excessive pressures.
Take frequent breaks.
All the above mentioned precautions do
not guarantee that you will not sustain
whitefinger disease or carpal tunnel
syndrome. Therefore, continual and
regular users should monitor closely the
condition of their hands and fingers. If
any of the above symptoms appear,
seek medical advice immediately.
WARNING
According to STIHL's current
knowledge, the electric motor or this unit
should not interfere with a pacemaker.
When in doubt, however, consult their
physician and the pacemaker manufacturer before operating this tool.
Proper Clothing
WARNING
To reduce the risk of injury, the operator
should wear proper protective apparel.
Clothing must be sturdy
and snug-fitting, but allow
complete freedom of
movement. Avoid loosefitting jackets, scarfs,
neckties, jewelry, flared
or cuffed pants, unconfined long hair or
anything that could
become entangled with
the saw or brush. Wear
overalls or jeans with a
reinforced cut retardant
insert or cut retardant
chaps.
Protect your hands with
gloves when handling
saw and saw chain.
Heavy-duty, nonslip
gloves improve your grip
and protect your hands.
Good footing is most
important in chain saw
work. Wear sturdy boots
with nonslip soles. Steeltoed safety boots are
recommended.
Never operate a chain saw unless
wearing goggles or properly fitted safety
glasses with adequate top and side
protection complying with your national
standard.
Wear an approved safety
hard hat to protect your
head. chain saw noise
may damage your hearing. Always wear sound
barriers (ear plugs or ear
mufflers) to protect your
hearing. Continual and
regular users should
have their hearing
checked regularly.
THE SAW
Parts of the chain saw; for illustrations
and definitions of the parts see the
chapter on "Main Parts".
WARNING
Never modify a chain saw in any way.
Only attachments and parts supplied by
STIHL or expressly approved by STIHL
for use with the specific STIHL saw
models are authorized. Although certain
unauthorized attachments are usable
with the STIHL powerhead, their use
may, in fact, be extremely dangerous.
THE USE OF THE SAW
Transporting the Chain Saw
WARNING
Always fully release the trigger switch
and make sure the chain has stopped
moving before putting the saw down or
carrying it. When carrying the saw over
longer distances, disconnect the plug
and reposition the extension cord.
MSE 140 C, MSE 160 C, MSE 180 C, MSE 200 C
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001BA069 LÄ
By hand: When carrying the chain saw
by hand, it must be switched off and the
saw held in the proper position, i.e. it
should be gripped by the front handle.
The chain guard must be fitted, even
when carrying the saw only a short
distance, and the guide bar must point
backwards, away from the direction in
which you are going.
Do not carry the machine by the power
cable. Carry the cable in your hand. If
the cable is dragged on a rough surface
(concrete etc.) the cable may become
damaged.
By vehicle:The chain guard must be
fitted on the guide bar when transporting
the saw in a vehicle. The saw should be
secured so that it cannot move and
become damaged, or cause damage.
Preparation for the Use of the Saw
Always disconnect the plug when the
saw is not in use. Take off the chain
guard and inspect for safety in
operation. Insure that the trigger switch
will not engage when the trigger switch
lockout is not pressed. For assembly,
follow the procedure described in the
chapter "Mounting the Bar and Chain" of
your instruction manual.
STIHL Oilomatic chain, guide bar and
sprocket must match each other in
gauge and pitch. Before replacing any
bar and chain, see the sections on
"Specifications", "Kickback" and the
"ANSI B 175.1-2000 chain saw kickback
standard" in this manual.
WARNING
Proper tension of the chain is extremely
important. In order to avoid improper
setting, the tensioning procedure must
be followed as described in your
manual. Always make sure the
hexagonal nut(s) for the sprocket cover
is (are) tightened securely after
tensioning the chain. Never start the saw
with the sprocket cover loose. Check
chain tension once more after having
tightened the nut(s) and thereafter at
regular intervals (whenever the saw is
shut off). If the chain becomes loose
while cutting, shut off the motor and then
tighten. Never try to adjust the chain
while the motor is running!
WARNING
After adjusting a chain, start the saw, let
the motor run for a while, then switch
motor off and recheck chain tension.
Proper chain tension is very important at
all times.
Electric Precautions
Special precautions for electric saws
must be observed to reduce the risk of
personal injury and property damage
from fire and electric shock.
This electric chain saw is double
insulated.
WARNING
To reduce risk of serious or fatal injury
from electrocution, never use your
machine if casing around motor is
cracked or damaged.
WARNING
The electrical power voltage must agree
with the voltage specified on the saw's
name plate. Improper voltage may
cause the motor to overheat, which will
damage the saw and may cause
personal injury.
WARNING
To reduce the risk of
electrocution never work
in rain or wet places – the
electric motor is not
waterproof! Do not leave
the chain saw outdoors in
the rain and do not operate it if it shows any signs
of dampness
WARNING
To reduce the risk of personal injury
from fire and explosion, do not use the
saw in the presence of flammable liquids
or gases. The sparks from an electric
saw may be a source of ignition!
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WARNING
Inspect the power cable
before and after each use
for signs of damage or
aging. In order to reduce
the risk of serious or fatal
injury from electrocution,
never use your machine if
the power cable is cut,
cracked, worn or damaged. Turn off power at
saw, disconnect the plug
immediately and have
dealer replace such a
cable.
Avoid damage to the power cable. Keep
it away from heat, oil and sharp edges.
Never jerk power cable to disconnect the
plug from the wall outlet. To unplug,
grasp the plug, not the cable.
Extension Cords
WARNING
To reduce the risk of electric shock, use
only extension cords that are intended
for outdoor use. These extension cords
are identified by a marking „Acceptable
for use with outdoor appliances; store
indoors while not in use.“
Do not use damaged extension cords.
Examine extension cord before using
and replace if damaged. Do not abuse
extension cord and do not yank on any
cord to disconnect. To unplug, grasp the
plug, not the cord. Keep cord away from
heat, oil and sharp edges.
If you use an extension cord, be sure to
use one heavy enough to carry the
current your electric saw will draw. An
improper gauged extension cord will
cause a drop in wire voltage resulting in
loss of power and overheating. Use only
extension cords having an electrical
rating not less than the rating of the
product.
The following table shows the correct
size to use depending on cord length
and machine label ampere rating.
Minimum Wire Size for Extension Cords
for 120 Volt Appliances
Cord types: SJW-A or SJTW-A
Round jacketed cords
Using not more than 12 amps
Cord length (ft) 50 100 150
Wire size (AWG) 14 12 10
Using not more than 15 amps
Cord length (ft) 50 100 150
Wire size (AWG) 10
1)
not recommended
1) 1)
Listed by UL, W-A marking on cable
jacket indicates "use outdoors".
Appropriate extension cords are
available in stores spezializing in
electrical equipment.
To reduce the risk of electric shock, this
equipment has a polarized plug (one
blade is wider than the other).This plug
will fit in a polarized outlet only one way.
If the plug does not fit fully in the outlet,
reverse the plug. If it still does not fit,
contact a qualified electrician to install
the proper outlet. Do not change the
plug in any way.
WARNING
Position the electric cable so that it will
not be damaged when using the electric
saw. Always keep the electric cable
behind the operator and away from the
bar and chain. Always be sure that your
cable does not become entangled with
obstacles or objects. Damaged cables
may cause electrocution. If you take a
break at your work, always disconnect
the cable.
Working Conditions
Operate the chain saw under good
visibility and daylight conditions only.
WARNING
Your saw is a one person saw. Do not
allow other persons to be near the
running chain saw. Operate your saw
without assistance.
WARNING
Be sure that the guide bar and chain are
clear of you and all other obstructions
and objects, including the ground. If the
bar nose near the upper quadrant
touches an object, it may cause
kickback to occur (see section on
reactive forces). Never attempt to start
the chain saw when the guide bar is in a
cut or kerf.
WARNING
Use of this product (including
sharpening the saw chain) can generate
dust, mists and fumes containing
chemicals known to cause respiratory
disease, cancer, birth defects, or other
reproductive harm. If you are unfamiliar
with the risks associated with the
particular dust, mist or fume at issue,
consult your employer, governmental
agencies such as OSHA and NIOSH
and other sources on hazardous
MSE 140 C, MSE 160 C, MSE 180 C, MSE 200 C
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001BA094 LA
001BA018 LA
materials. California and some other
authorities, for instance, have published
lists of substances known to cause
cancer, reproductive toxicity, etc.
Control dust (such as sawdust), mists
(such as oil mist from chain lubrication)
and fumes at the source where possible.
In this regard use good work practices
and follow the recommendations of
OSHA / NIOSH and occupational and
trade associations. When the inhalation
of toxic dust, mists and fumes cannot be
eliminated, the operator and any
bystanders should always wear a
respirator approved by NIOSH / MSHA
for the type substance at issue.
WARNING
Breathing asbestos dust is dangerous
and can cause severe or fatal injury,
respiratory illness or cancer. The use
and disposal of asbestos containing
products have been strictly regulated by
OSHA and the Environmental Protection
Agency. Do not cut or disturb asbestos,
asbestos containing products (e.g.
asbestos containing drywall or other
construction products), or products such
as pipes which are wrapped or covered
with asbestos insulation. If you have any
reason to believe that you might be
cutting asbestos, immediately contact
your employer or a local OSHA
representative.
Don't work alone. Keep within calling
distance of others in case help is
needed.
Your chain saw is equipped with a chain
catcher. It is designed to reduce the risk
of personal injury in the event of a
thrown or broken chain. From time to
time the catcher may be damaged or
removed.
To reduce the risk of personal injury, do
not operate a chain saw with a damaged
or missing catcher.
WARNING
Avoid stumbling on obstacles such as
stumps, roots or rocks and watch out for
holes or ditches. Clear the area where
you are working. Be extremely cautious
when working on slopes or uneven
ground. There is increased danger of
slipping on freshly debarked logs.
WARNING
To reduce the risk
of serious or fatal
injury to the operator or bystanders,
never use the saw
with one hand. You
cannot control
reactive forces and
you may lose control of the saw,
which can result in
the skating or
bouncing of the bar
and chain along
the limb or log.
Cutting Instructions
Grip: Always hold the saw firmly with
both hands when the motor is running.
Place your left hand on front handle bar
and your right hand on rear handle and
trigger switch. Left-handers should
follow these instructions too. Wrap your
fingers tightly around the handles,
keeping the handles cradled between
your thumb and forefinger. With your
hands in this position, you can best
oppose and absorb the push, pull and
kickback forces of your saw without
losing control (see section on reactive
forces). Make sure your chain saw
handles and grip are in good condition
and free of moisture, pitch, oil or grease.
WARNING
Never touch a chain with your hand or
any part of your body when the motor is
running, even when the chain is not
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001BA031 KN
001BA082 KN
001BA257 KN
rotating. The chain continues to rotate
for a short period after the trigger switch
is released.
WARNING
Do not cut any material other than wood
or wooden objects. Use your chain
sawing only. It is not designed for prying
or shoveling away limbs, roots or other
objects. When sawing, make sure that
the saw chain does not touch any
foreign materials such as rocks, fences,
nails and the like. Such objects may be
flung off, damage the saw chain or
cause the saw to kickback.
WARNING
In order to keep control of your saw,
always maintain a firm foothold.
Never work on a ladder, or on any other
insecure support. Never use the saw
above shoulder height.
WARNING
Never work in a tree unless you have
received specific, professional training
for such work, are properly secured
(such as tackle and harness system or a
lift bucket), have both hands free for
operating the chain saw in a cramped
environment and have taken proper
precautions to avoid injury from falling
limbs or branches.
Position the chain saw in such a way
that your body is clear of the cutting
attachment whenever the motor is
running. Stand to the left of cut while
bucking.
Don't put pressure on the saw when
reaching the end of a cut. The pressure
may cause the bar and rotating chain to
pop out of the cut or kerf, go out of
control and strike the operator or some
other object. If the rotating chain strikes
some other object, a reactive force may
cause the moving chain to strike the
operator.
Reactive Forces Including Kickback
WARNING
Reactive forces may occur any time the
chain is rotating. Reactive forces can be
dangerous! In any chain saw the
powerful force used to cut wood can be
reversed (and work against the
operator). If the rotating chain is
suddenly stopped by contact with any
solid object like a log or branch or is
pinched, the reactive forces may occur
instantly. These reactive forces may
result in loss of control which may, in
turn, cause serious or fatal injury. An
understanding of the causes of these
reactive forces may help you avoid loss
of control.
The most common reactive forces are:
– kickback,
– pushback,
– pull-in.
Kickback
Kickback may occur
when the moving saw
chain near the upper
quadrant of the bar nose
contacts a solid object or
is pinched.
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001BA035 KN
The reaction of the cutting force of the
chain causes a rotational force on the
chain saw in the direction opposite to the
chain movement. This may fling the bar
up and back in an uncontrolled arc
mainly in the plane of the bar. Under
some cutting circumstances the bar
moves towards the operator, who may
suffer severe or fatal injury.
Kickback may occur, for example, when
the chain near the upper quadrant of the
bar nose contacts the wood or is
pinched during limbing or when it is
incorrectly used to begin a plunge or
boring cut.
The greater the force of the kickback
reaction, the more difficult it becomes for
the operator to control the saw. Many
factors influence the occurrence and
force of the kickback reaction. These
include chain speed, the speed at which
the bar and chain contact the object, the
angle of contact, the condition of the
chain and other factors.
The type of bar and saw chain you use
is an important factor in the occurrence
and force of the kickback reaction. Some
STIHL bar and chain types are designed
to reduce kickback forces. STIHL
recommends the use of reduced
kickback bars and low kickback chains.
ANSI B 175.1-2000 Chain Saw
Kickback Standard
Section 5.11 of ANSI standard
B 175.1-2000, sets certain performance
and design criteria related to chain saw
kickback, which has been adopted for
electric chain saws in UL 16 62 in
section 30.
To comply with kickback § 30 of
UL 16 62 electric chain saws:
– must, in their original condition,
meet a 45° computer derived
kickback angle when equipped with
certain cutting attachments,
– and must be equipped with at least
two devices to reduce the risk of
kickback injury, such as a chain
brake, low kickback chain, reduced
kickback bar etc.
The computer derived angles for electric
saws are measured by applying a
computer program to test results from
the kickback test machine.
WARNING
The computer derived angles of § 5.11
of ANSI B 175.1-2000 may bear no
relationship to actual kickback bar
rotation angles that may occur in real life
cutting situations. In addition, features
designed to reduce kickback injuries
may lose some of their effectiveness
when they are no longer in their original
condition, especially if they have been
improperly maintained. Compliance with
§ 5.11 of ANSI B 175.1-2000 does not
automatically mean that in a real life
kickback the bar and chain will rotate at
most 45°.
WARNING
In order for el ectric chain saws to comply
with the computed kickback angle
requirements of § 30 of UL 16 62 /
§ 5.11 of ANSI B 175.1-2000 use only
the following cutting attachments:
– bar and chain combinations listed
as complying in the "Specifications"
section of the instruction manual or
– other replacement bar and chain
combinations marked in
accordance with the standard for
use on the powerhead or
– replacement chain designated "low
kickback saw chain''
See the section on "Low kickback saw
chain and reduced kickback bars"
Devices for Reducing the Risk of
Kickback Injury
STIHL recommends the use of the
STIHL Quickstop chain brake on your
powerhead with green labeled reduced
kickback bars and low kickback chains.
WARNING
To reduce the risk of injury, stop using
the saw immediately if the chain brake
does not function properly. Take the saw
to your local STIHL Service Center! Do
not use the saw until the problem has
been rectified (see the section "Chain
Brake").
10
MSE 140 C, MSE 160 C, MSE 180 C, MSE 200 C
English
001BA075 LÄ
Quickstop Chain Brake
STIHL has developed a chain stopping
system designed to reduce the risk of
injury in certain kickback situations. It is
called a Quickstop chain brake. The
Quickstop is available as standard
equipment on your STIHL chain saw and
is available for installation on most older
STIHL saws. Ask your dealer to retrofit
your older model saw with a chain brake.
When a kickback occurs, the guide bar
may rotate around the front handle. If the
cutting position is such that the
operator's left hand is gripping the front
handle behind the hand guard, and if the
left hand rotates around the front handle
and makes a sufficiently forceful contact
with the front hand guard, which is the
Quickstop activating lever, this contact
will activate a properly maintained
Quickstop chain brake.
All STIHL chain saws are now equipped
with a Quickstop chain brake that can be
activated by inertia. If the forces of an
occurring kickback are sufficiently high,
the hand quard is accelerated toward
the bar nose even without hand contact.
See the chapter entitled "Chain Brake"
of your instruction manual.
WARNING
Never operate your chain saw without a
front hand guard. In a kickback situation
this guard helps protect your left hand or
other parts of your body. In addition,
removal of the hand guard on a saw
equipped with a Quickstop chain brake
will deactivate the chain brake.
WARNING
No Quickstop or other chain brake
device prevents kickback. These
devices are designed to reduce the risk
of kickback injury, if activated, in certain
kickback situations. In order for the
Quickstop to reduce the risk of kickback
injury, it must be properly maintained
and in good working order. See the
chapter entitled "Chain Brake" and
"Maintenance, Repair and Storing" of
your instruction manual. In addition,
there must be enough distance between
the bar and the operator to ensure that
the Quickstop has sufficient time to
activate and stop the chain before
potential contact with the operator.
WARNING
An improperly maintained chain brake
may increase the time needed to stop
the chain after activation, or may not
activate at all.
Low Kickback Saw Chain and Reduced
Kickback Bars
STIHL offers a variety of bars and
chains. STIHL reduced kickback bars
and low kickback chains are designed to
reduce the risk of kickback injury. Other
chains are designed to obtain higher
cutting efficiency or sharpening ease but
may result in higher kickback tendency.
STIHL has developed a color
codesystem to help you identify the
STIHL reduced kickback bars and low
kickback chains. Cutting attachments
with green warning decals or green
labels on the packaging are designed to
reduce the risk of kickback injury. The
matching of green decaled electric chain
saws with green labeled bars and green
labeled chains gives compliance with
the computed kickback angle
requirements of § 30 of UL 16 62 / ANSI
B 175.1-2000 when the products are in
their original condition. Products with
yellow decals or labels are for users with
extraordinary cutting needs and
experience and specialized training for
dealing with kickback.
STIHL recommends the use of its green
labeled reduced kickback bars, green
labeled low kickback chains and a
STIHL Quickstop chain brake for both
experienced and inexperienced chain
saw users.
Please ask your STIHL dealer to
properly match your powerhead with the
appropriate bar/chain combinations to
reduce the risk of kickback injury. Green
labeled bars and chains are
recommended for all powerheads. See
your "STIHL Bar and Chain Information"
leaflet for details.
MSE 140 C, MSE 160 C, MSE 180 C, MSE 200 C
11
English
WARNING
Use of other, non-listed bar/chain
combinations may increase kickback
forces and increase the risk of kickback
injury. New bar/chain combinations may
be developed after publication of this
literature, which will, in combination with
certain electric chain saws, comply with
§ 30 of UL 16 62 / § 5.11 of ANSI
B175.1-2000. Check with your STIHL
dealer for such combinations.
WARNING
Reduced kickback bars and low
kickback chains do not prevent
kickback, but they are designed to
reduce the risk of kickback injury. They
are available from your STIHL dealer.
WARNING
Even if your saw is equipped with a
Quickstop, a reduced kickback bar
and/or low kickback chain, this does not
eliminate the risk of injury by kickback.
Therefore, always observe all safety
precautions to avoid kickback situations.
Low Kickback Chain
Some types of saw chain have specially
designed components to reduce the
force of nose contact kickback. STIHL
has developed low kickback chain for
your powerhead.
"Low kickback saw chain" is a chain
which has met the kickback
performance requirements of § 5.11.2.4
of ANSI B 175.1-2000 (Safety
Requirements for Gasoline-Powered
chain saws) when tested in its original
condition on a selected representative
sample of chain saws below 3.8 cubic
inch (62 cm³) displacement specified in
ANSI B 175.1-2000.
WARNING
There are potential powerhead and bar
combinations with which low kickback
saw chains can be used which have not
been specifically certified to comply with
the 45° computer derived kickback
angle of § 5.11 of ANSI B 175.1-2000.
Some low kickback chains have not
been tested with all powerhead and bar
combinations.
WARNING
A dull or improperly sharpened chain
may reduce or negate the effects of the
design features intended to reduce
kickback energy. Improper lowering or
sharpening of the depth gauges or
shaping of the cutters may increase the
chance and the potential energy of a
kickback. Always cut with a properly
sharpened chain.
Reduced Kickback Bar
STIHL green labeled reduced kickback
bars are designed to reduce the risk of
kickback injury when used with STIHL
green labeled low kickback chains.
WARNING
When used with other, more aggressive
chains, these bars may be less effective
in reducing kickback, and may result in
higher kickback forces.
Bow Guides
WARNING
Do not mount a bow guide on any STIHL
chain saw. Any chain saw equipped with
a bowguide is potentially very
dangerous. The risk of kickback is
increased with a bow guide because of
the increased kickback contact area.
Low kickback chain will not significantly
reduce the risk of kickback injury when
used on a bow guide.
To Avoid Kickback
The best protection from personal injury
that may result from kickback is to avoid
kickback situations:
1 Hold the chain saw firmly with both
hands and maintain a secure grip.
2 Be aware of the location of the guide
bar nose at all times.
3 Never let the nose of the guide bar
contact any object. Do not cut limbs
with the nose of the guide bar. Be
especially careful when cutting
small, tough limbs, small size brush
and saplings which may easily catch
the chain.
4 Don't overreach.
5 Don't cut above shoulder height.
6 Begin cutting and continue at full
speed.
7 Cut only one log at a time.
8 Use extreme caution when
reentering a previous cut.
9 Do not attempt to plunge cut if you
are not experienced with this cutting
technique.
12
MSE 140 C, MSE 160 C, MSE 180 C, MSE 200 C
English
001BA037 KN
A
001BA038 KN
B
10 Be alert for shifting of the log or
other forces that may cause the cut
to close and pinch the chain.
11 Maintain saw chain properly. Cut
with a correctly sharpened, properly
tensioned chain at all times.
12 Stand to the side of the cutting path
of the chain saw.
A = Pull-in
Pull-in occurs when the chain on the
bottom of the bar is suddenly stopped
when it is pinched, caught or encounters
a foreign object in the wood. The
reaction of the chain pulls the saw
forward and may cause the operator to
lose control.
Pull-in frequently occurs when the
bumper spike of the saw is not held
securely against the tree or limb and
when the chain is not rotating at full
speed before it contacts the wood.
WARNING
Use extreme caution when cutting small
size brush and saplings which may
easily catch the chain and pull you off
balance.
To Avoid Pull-in
1 Always start a cut with the chain
rotating at full speed and the
bumper spike in contact with the
wood.
2 Pull-in may also be prevented by
using wedges to open the kerf or
cut.
B = Pushback
Pushback occurs when the chain on the
top of the bar is suddenly stopped when
it is pinched, caught or encounters a
foreign object in the wood. The reaction
of the chain drives the saw straight back
toward the operator and may cause loss
of saw control. Pushback frequently
occurs when the top of the bar is used
for cutting.
To Avoid Pushback
1 Be alert to forces or situations that
may cause material to pinch the top
of the chain.
2 Do not cut more than one log at a
time.
3 Do not twist the saw when
withdrawing the bar from a plunge
cut or underbuck cut because the
chain can pinch.
WARNING
Working with an electric chain saw in the
woods – i.e. felling or limbing – is very
dangerous. The freedom of movement
necessary for this work is impaired by
the power cable! Electric saws are
intended for stationary use in yards,
buildings, etc.
Cutting Techniques
These general instructions apply to all
chain saws. As stated above, however,
STIHL recommends against use of your
electric saw in the woods.
Felling
Felling is cutting down a tree.
Before felling a tree, consider carefully
all conditions which may affect the
direction of fall, including:
– The intended direction of the fall.
– The natural lean of the tree.
– Any unusually heavy limb structure.
– Surrounding trees and obstacles.
– The wind direction and speed.
WARNING
Always observe the general condition of
the tree. Inexperienced users should
never attempt to cut trees which are
decayed or rotted inside or which are
leaning or otherwise under tension.
There is an increased risk that such
trees could snap or split while being cut
and cause serious or fatal injury to the
operator or bystanders. Also look for
broken or dead branches which could
vibrate loose and fall on the operator.
MSE 140 C, MSE 160 C, MSE 180 C, MSE 200 C
13
English
001BA088 LÄ
2
/
1
2
1 1
/
1
2
B
001BA040 KN
A
45°
45°
B
001BA146 KN
001BA052 KN
A
When felling on a slope, the operator
should stand on the uphill side if
possible.
Felling Instructions
When felling, maintain a distance of at
least 2 1/2 tree lengths from the nearest
person.
When felling in the vicinity of roads,
railways and power lines, etc., take extra
precautions. Inform the police, utility
company or railway authority before
beginning to cut.
WARNING
The noise of your motor may drown any
warning call.
WARNING
There are a number of factors that may
affect and change the intended direction
of fall, e.g. wind, lean of tree, sloping
ground, one-sided limb structure, wood
structure, decay, snow load, etc. To
reduce the risk of severe or fatal injury to
yourself or others, look for these
conditions prior to beginning the cut, and
be alert for a change in direction while
the tree is falling.
Escape Path
First clear the tree base and work area
from interfering limbs and brush and
clean its lower portion with an axe.
Then, establish two paths of escape (B)
and remove all obstacles. These paths
should be generally opposite to the
planned direction of the fall of the tree
(A) and about at a 45° angle. Place all
tools and equipment a safe distance
away from the tree, but not on the
escape paths.
Buttress Roots
If the tree has large buttress roots, cut
into the largest buttress vertically first
(horizontally next) and remove the
resulting piece.
Conventional Cut
A Felling notch – determines the
direction of the fall
For a conventional cut:
14
MSE 140 C, MSE 160 C, MSE 180 C, MSE 200 C
English
001BA043 KN
001BA044 KN
B
B
N Properly place felling notch
perpendicular to the line of fall,
close to the ground.
N Cut down at approx. 45° angle to a
depth of about 1/5 to 1/4 of the trunk
diameter.
N Make second cut horizontal.
N Remove resulting 45° piece.
Open-face Technique
A Felling notch – determines the
direction of the fall
For an open-face cut:
N Properly place felling notch
perpendicular to the line of fall,
close to the ground
N Cut down at approx. 50° angle to a
depth of approx.1/5 to 1/4 of the
trunk diameter
N Make second cut from below at
approx. 40° angle
N Remove resulting 90° piece
Making Sapwood Cuts
N For medium sized or larger trees
make cuts at both sides of the trunk,
at same height as subsequent
felling cut.
N Cut to no more than width of guide
bar.
This is especially important in softwood
in summer – it helps prevent sapwood
splintering when the tree falls.
B Felling cut
Conventional and open-face technique:
N Begin 1 to 2 inches (2,5 to 5 cm)
higher than center of felling notch.
N Cut horizontally towards the felling
notch.
N Leave approx.1/10 of diameter
uncut. This is the hinge.
N Do not cut through the hinge – you
could lose control of the direction of
the fall.
Drive wedges into the felling cut where
necessary to control the fall.
WARNING
If the tip of the bar contacts a wedge, it
may cause kickback. Wedges should be
of wood or plastic – never steel, which
can damage the chain.
MSE 140 C, MSE 160 C, MSE 180 C, MSE 200 C
15
English
001BA045 KN
C
C
001BA046 KN
1
001BA047 KN
2
3
Felling Cut for Large Diameter Trees
C Hinge
N Helps control the falling tree.
N Do not cut through the hinge – you
could lose control of the direction of
the fall.
WARNING
In order to reduce the risk of personal
injury, never stand directly behind the
tree when it is about to fall, since part of
the trunk may split and come back
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, shut off the motor and
walk away on the preplanned escape
path. Watch out for falling limbs.
16
WARNING
Be extremely careful with partially fallen
trees which are poorly supported. When
the tree hangs or for some other reason
does not fall completely, set the saw
aside and pull the tree down with a cable
winch, block and tackle or tractor. If you
try to cut it down with your saw, you may
be injured.
Felling cut for small diameter trees:
simple fan cut
Engage the bumper spikes of the chain
saw directly behind the location of the
intended hinge and pivot the saw around
this point only as far as the hinge. The
bumper spike rolls against the trunk.
MSE 140 C, MSE 160 C, MSE 180 C, MSE 200 C
WARNING
Felling a tree that has a diameter greater
than the length of the guide bar requires
use of either the sectioning felling cut or
plunge-cut method. These methods are
extremely dangerous because they
involve the use of the nose of the guide
bar and can result in kickback. Only
properly trained professionals should
attempt these techniques.
Sectioning Method
For the sectioning method make the first
part of the felling cut with the guide bar
fanning in toward the hinge. Then, using
the bumper spike as a pivot, reposition
the saw for the next cut.
Avoid repositioning the saw more than
001BA048 KN
1
2
3
001BA089 LÄ
necessary. When repositioning for the
next cut, keep the guide bar fully
engaged in the kerf to keep the felling
cut straight. If the saw begins to pinch,
insert a wedge to open the cut. On the
last cut, do not cut the hinge.
Plunge-cut Method
Timber having a diameter more than
twice the length of the guide bar requires
the use of the plunge-cut method before
making the felling cut.
First, cut a large, wide felling notch.
Make a plunge cut in the center of the
notch.
The plunge cut is made with the guide
bar nose. Begin the plunge cut by
applying the lower portion of the guide
bar nose to the tree at an angle. Cut until
the depth of the kerf is about the same
as the width of the guide bar. Next, align
the saw in the direction in which the
recess is to be cut.
With the saw at full speed, insert the
guide bar in the trunk.
Enlarge the plunge cut as shown in the
illustration.
WARNING
There is an extreme danger of kickback
at this point. Extra caution must be taken
to maintain control of the saw. To make
the felling cut, follow the sectioning
method described previously.
If you are inexperienced with a chain
saw, plunge-cutting should not be
attempted. Seek the help of a
professional.
Limbing
Limbing is removing the branches from a
fallen tree.
English
WARNING
There is an extreme danger of kickback
during the limbing operation. Do not
work with the nose of the bar. Be
extremely cautious and avoid contacting
the log or other limbs with the nose of the
guide bar.
Do not stand on a log while limbing it –
you may slip or the log may roll.
Start limbing by leaving the lower limbs
to support the log off the ground. When
underbucking freely hanging limbs, a
pinch may result or the limb may fall,
causing loss of control. If a pinch occurs,
stop the motor and remove the saw, by
lifting the limb.
WARNING
Be extremely cautious when cutting
limbs or logs under tension (spring
poles). The limbs or logs could spring
back toward the operator and cause loss
of control of the saw and severe or fatal
injury to the operator.
MSE 140 C, MSE 160 C, MSE 180 C, MSE 200 C
17
English
001BA074 LÄ
001BA077 LÄ
001BA050 LÄ
Bucking
Bucking is cutting a log into sections.
1 When bucking, do not stand on the
log. Make sure the log will not roll
downhill. If on a slope, stand on the
uphill side of the log. Watch out for
rolling logs.
18
2 Cut only one log at a time.
3 Shattered wood should be cut very
carefully. Sharp slivers of wood may
be caught and flung in the direction
of the operator of the saw.
4 When cutting small logs, place log
through "V" – shaped supports on
top of a sawhorse. Never permit
another person to hold the log.
Never hold the log with your leg or
foot.
MSE 140 C, MSE 160 C, MSE 180 C, MSE 200 C
5 Logs under strain: Risk of pinching!
Always start relieving cut (1) at
compression side (A).Then make
bucking cut (2) at tension side (B). If
the saw pinches, stop the motor and
remove it from the log.
6 Only properly trained professionals
should work in an area where the
logs, limbs and roots are tangled.
Working in blow down areas is
extremely hazardous.
7 Drag the logs into a clear area
before cutting. Pull out exposed and
cleared logs first.
MAINTENANCE, REPAIR AND
STORING
Servicing of double-insulated appliance
This electric chain saw is double-
insulated. In such an appliance, two
systems of insulation are provided
English
instead of grounding. No grounding
means are provided, nor should means
for grounding be added to the appliance.
Servicing a double-insulated appliance
requires extreme care and knowledge of
the system, and should be done only by
qualified service personnel.
WARNING
Replacement parts for double-insulated
appliance must be identical to the parts
they replace.
WARNING
Use only STIHL replacement parts for
maintenance and repair. Use of parts
manufactured by others may cause
serious or fatal injury.
WARNING
Never operate a chain saw that is damaged, improperly adjusted or not completely or securely assembled. Follow
the maintenance and repair instructions
in the appropriate section of your
instruction manual, especially those in
the chapters "Mounting the Bar and
Chain", "Maintaining and Sharpening"
and "Chain Brake".
WARNING
Always stop the motor, disconnect the
plug from the power supply and ensure
that the chain is stopped before making
any adjustments, maintenance or repair
work, changing the saw chain or
cleaning the saw. Do not attempt any
maintenance or repair work not
described in your instruction manual.
Have such work performed at your
STIHL service shop only.
Keep the chain, bar and sprocket clean;
replace worn sprockets or chains. Keep
the chain sharp. You can spot a dull
chain when easy-to-cut wood becomes
hard to cut and burn marks appear on
the wood. Keep the chain at proper
tension. Tighten all nuts, bolts and
screws before each use.
Only authorized personnel may replace
the power supply cord. A damaged
power supply cord must be replaced by
an identical STIHL replacement part.
WARNING
In order for the chain brake on your
STIHL chain saw to properly perform its
function of reducing the risk of kickback
and other injuries, it must be properly
maintained. Like an automobile brake, a
chain saw chain brake incurs wear each
time it is engaged.
The amount of wear will vary depending
upon usage, conditions under which the
saw is used and other factors. Excessive
wear will reduce the effectiveness of the
chain brake and can render it
inoperable.
For the proper and effective operation of
the chain brake, the brake band and
drum must be kept free of dirt, grease
and other foreign matter which may
reduce friction of the band on the drum.
For these reasons, each STIHL chain
saw should be returned to trained
personnel such as your STIHL servicing
dealer for periodic inspection and
servicing of the brake system according
to the following schedule:
Heavy usage - every three months,
Moderate usage - twice a year,
Occasional usage - annually.
The chain saw should also be returned
immediately for maintenance whenever
the brake system cannot be thoroughly
cleaned or there is a change in its
operating characteristics.
Additionally, the daily maintenance
schedule for your chain saw set forth in
your instruction manual should be
strictly followed.
Store chain saw in a dry place and away
from children. It should have the
scabbard mounted or be in a carrying
case.
Read all
instructions – save
these instructions
MSE 140 C, MSE 160 C, MSE 180 C, MSE 200 C
19
English
001BA248 KN
1
2
3
a
001BA244 KN
100BA001 KN
2
1
181BA009 KN
Cutting Attachment
STIHL is the only manufacturer in the
industry to produce its own chain saws,
guide bars, saw chains and chain
sprockets.
A cutting attachment consists of the saw
chain, guide bar and chain sprocket.
The cutting attachment that comes
standard is designed to exactly match
the chain saw.
– The pitch (t) of the saw chain (1),
chain sprocket and the nose
sprocket of the Rollomatic guide bar
must match.
– The drive link gauge (2) of the saw
chain (1) must match the groove
width of the guide bar (3).
If non-matching components are used,
the cutting attachment may be damaged
beyond repair after a short period of
operation.
Chain scabbard
Your saw comes standard with a chain
scabbard that matches the cutting
attachment.
If you use guide bars of different lengths
on the saw, the length of the chain
scabbard must be matched to the guide
bar to help reduce the risk of injury. It
should cover the full length of the guide
bar.
The length of the matching guide bars is
marked on the side of the chain
scabbard.
Mounting the Bar and Chain
(front chain tensioner)
WARNING
Do not connect the power tool to the wall
outlet yet.
Removing the chain sprocket cover
N Unscrew the nut and remove the
chain sprocket cover.
N Turn the screw (1)
counterclockwise until the
tensioning nut (2) butts against the
left end of the housing slot.
20
MSE 140 C, MSE 160 C, MSE 180 C, MSE 200 C
English
181BA010 KN
143BA003 KN
181BA019 KN
6
5
4
2
1
2
3
100BA001 KN
1
2
181BA008 KN
Disengaging the chain brake.
N Pull the hand guard towards the
front handle until there is an audible
click – the chain brake is
disengaged.
Fitting the chain
WARNING
Wear work gloves to protect your hands
from the sharp cutters.
N Turn the guide bar so that the chain
is positioned as shown in the
pictogram (1).
N Fit the guide bar over the studs (2)
and engage the tensioning nut in the
hole (3) – place the chain over the
sprocket (4) at the same time.
N Turn the tensioning screw (5)
clockwise until there is very little
chain sag on the underside of the
bar – and the drive link tangs are
engaged in the bar groove.
N Refit the sprocket cover and screw
on the nut fingertight.
N The arrow (6) indicates the direction
of chain rotation.
N Go to chapter on "Tensioning the
Saw Chain"
Mounting the Bar and Chain
(side chain tensioner)
WARNING
Do not connect the power tool to the wall
outlet yet.
Removing the chain sprocket cover
N Unscrew the nut and remove the
chain sprocket cover.
N Fit the chain – start at the bar nose.
MSE 140 C, MSE 160 C, MSE 180 C, MSE 200 C
N Turn the screw (1)
counterclockwise until the
tensioning nut (2) butts against the
left end of the housing slot.
21
English
181BA010 KN
143BA003 KN
6
181BA011 KN
5
4
2
1
2
3
1
2
3
100BA028 KN
4
100BA007 KN
Disengaging the chain brake.
N Pull the hand guard towards the
front handle until there is an audible
click – the chain brake is
disengaged.
Fitting the chain
WARNING
Wear work gloves to protect your hands
from the sharp cutters.
N Turn the guide bar so that the chain
is positioned as shown in the
pictogram (1).
N Fit the guide bar over the studs (2)
and engage the tensioning nut in the
hole (3) – place the chain over the
sprocket (4) at the same time.
N Turn the tensioning screw (5)
clockwise until there is very little
chain sag on the underside of the
bar – and the drive link tangs are
engaged in the bar groove.
N Refit the sprocket cover and screw
on the nut fingertight.
N The arrow (6) indicates the direction
of chain rotation.
N Go to chapter on "Tensioning the
Saw Chain"
Mounting the Bar and Chain
(quick chain tensioner)
WARNING
Do not connect the power tool to the wall
outlet yet.
Removing the chain sprocket cover
N Pull out the hinged clip (1) so that it
snaps into position.
N Turn the wingnut (2)
counterclockwise until it hangs
loose in the sprocket cover (3).
N Remove the chain sprocket
cover (3).
Fitting the tensioning gear
N Fit the chain – start at the bar nose.
22
N Remove the tensioning gear (4) and
turn it over.
MSE 140 C, MSE 160 C, MSE 180 C, MSE 200 C
N Take out the screw (5).
5
135BA005 KN
6
7
135BA006 KN
8
135BA007 KN
181BA010 KN
1
181BA012 KN
2
3
181BA013 KN
N Line up the tensioning gear (6) and
guide bar (7).
Disengaging the chain brake.
N Pull the hand guard towards the
front handle until there is an audible
click – the chain brake is
disengaged.
Fitting the chain
WARNING
Wear work gloves to protect your hands
from the sharp cutters.
English
N Fit the chain – start at the bar nose.
Pay attention to the position of the
tensioning gear and the cutting
edges.
N Turn the tensioning gear (1)
clockwise as far as stop.
N Turn the guide bar so that the
tensioning gear is facing you.
N Insert the screw (8) and tighten it
down firmly.
MSE 140 C, MSE 160 C, MSE 180 C, MSE 200 C
N Fit the chain over the sprocket (2).
N Push the guide bar over the bar
stud (3), the head of the rear bar
stud must engage the slot.
23
English
100BA009 KN
100BA010 KN
4
5
181BA014 KN
1
180BA015 KN
N Make sure the drive link tangs
engage the bar groove (arrow) and
then rotate the tensioning gear
counterclockwise as far as stop.
N Place the chain sprocket cover in
position and engage the guide lugs
in the recesses in the engine
housing.
When fitting the chain sprocket cover,
check that the teeth of the tensioning
gear and adjusting wheel mesh properly.
N If necessary, turn the adjusting
wheel (4) slightly until the sprocket
cover can be pushed flush against
the engine housing.
N Pull out the hinged clip (5) so that it
snaps into position.
N Engage wingnut and tighten it down
moderately.
N Go to chapter on "Tensioning the
Saw Chain"
Tensioning the Saw Chain
(front chain tensioner)
Retensioning during cutting work:
N Disconnect the plug from the wall
outlet.
N Loosen the nut.
N Hold the bar nose up.
N Use a screwdriver to turn the
tensioning screw (1) clockwise until
the chain fits snugly against the
underside of the bar.
N While still holding the bar nose up,
tighten down the nut firmly.
N Go to "Checking Chain Tension".
A new chain has to be retensioned more
often than one that has been in use for
some time.
N Check chain tension frequently –
see chapter on "Operating
Instructions".
24
MSE 140 C, MSE 160 C, MSE 180 C, MSE 200 C
English
1
180BA016 KN
1
2
100BA013 KN
100BA015 KN
1
Tensioning the Saw Chain
(side chain tensioner)
Retensioning during cutting work:
N Disconnect the plug from the wall
outlet.
N Loosen the nut.
N Hold the bar nose up.
N Use a screwdriver to turn the
tensioning screw (1) clockwise until
the chain fits snugly against the
underside of the bar.
N While still holding the bar nose up,
tighten down the nut firmly.
N Go to "Checking Chain Tension".
A new chain has to be retensioned more
often than one that has been in use for
some time.
N Check chain tension frequently –
see chapter on "Operating
Instructions".
Tensioning the Saw Chain
(quick chain tensioner)
Retensioning during cutting work:
N Disconnect the plug from the wall
outlet.
N Pull out the hinged grip and loosen
the wingnut.
N Turn the adjusting wheel (1)
clockwise as far as stop.
N Tighten down the wingnut (2) firmly
by hand.
N Fold down the hinged grip.
N Go to "Checking Chain Tension".
A new chain has to be retensioned more
often than one that has been in use for
some time.
N Check chain tension frequently –
see chapter on "Operating
Instructions".
Checking Chain Tension
N Disconnect the plug from the wall
outlet.
N Wear work gloves to protect your
hands.
N Disengage the chain brake: Pull the
hand guard (1) against the front
handle and hold it there – the chain
brake and coasting brake are
disengaged in this position.
N The chain must fit snugly against
the underside of the bar and it must
still be possible to pull the chain
along the bar by hand.
N If necessary, retension the chain.
A new chain has to be retensioned more
often than one that has been in use for
some time.
N Check chain tension frequently –
see chapter on "Operating
Instructions".
MSE 140 C, MSE 160 C, MSE 180 C, MSE 200 C
25
English
1
2
181BA017 KN
Chain Lubricant Filling Chain Oil Tank
For automatic and reliable lubrication of
the chain and guide bar – use only an
environmentally compatible quality
chain and bar lubricant. Rapidly
biodegradable STIHL Bioplus is
recommended.
NOTICE
Biological chain oil must be resistant to
aging (e.g. STIHL Bioplus) since it will
otherwise quickly turn to resin. This
results in hard deposits that are difficult
to remove, especially in the area of the
chain drive and chain. It may even cause
the oil pump to seize.
The service life of the chain and guide
bar depends on the quality of the
lubricant. It is therefore essential to use
only a specially formulated chain
lubricant.
WARNING
Do not use waste oil. Renewed contact
with waste oil can cause skin cancer.
Moreover, waste oil is environmentally
harmful.
NOTICE
Waste oil does not have the necessary
lubricating properties and is unsuitable
for chain lubrication.
Preparations
N Thoroughly clean the oil filler cap (1)
and the area around it to ensure that
no dirt falls into the tank.
N Position the machine so that the
filler cap is facing up.
N Open the filler cap.
Filling the Chain Oil Tank
N Fill up with chain oil.
Take care not to spill chain oil while
refilling and do not overfill the tank.
N Close the filler cap.
N Check the oil level regularly during
operation.
N Top up the oil tank when the oil level
reaches the "min" mark (2) or
earlier.
If the oil level in the tank does not go
down, the reason may be a fault in the oil
supply system: Check chain lubrication,
clean the oilways, contact your dealer
for assistance if necessary STIHL
recommends that you have servicing
and repair work carried out exclusively
by an authorized STIHL servicing
dealer.
26
MSE 140 C, MSE 160 C, MSE 180 C, MSE 200 C
English
143BA024 KN
1
2
100BA019 KN
181BA018 KN
181BA010 KN
Checking Chain Lubrication
The saw chain must always throw off a
small amount of oil.
NOTICE
Never operate your saw without chain
lubrication. If the chain runs dry, the
whole cutting attachment will be
irretrievably damaged within a very short
time. Always check chain lubrication and
the oil level in the tank before starting
work.
Every new chain has to be broken in for
about 2 to 3 minutes.
After breaking in the chain, check chain
tension and adjust if necessary – see
"Checking Chain Tension".
Coasting Brake
The coasting brake brings the running
chain to a standstill when you let go of
the trigger switch.
1 Coasting brake stops the running
chain.
2 Coasting brake disengaged.
Chain Brake
Locking chain with chain brake
– in an emergency
The chain brake is stopped and locked
when the hand guard is pushed toward
the bar nose by the left hand – or when
brake is activated by inertia in certain
kickback situations.
Releasing the chain brake
N Pull the hand guard back towards
the front handle.
MSE 140 C, MSE 160 C, MSE 180 C, MSE 200 C
27
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