Stihl Chainsaw Manuals

Essential Safety Rules (All Models)

• Always wear proper PPE: Helmet system, hearing protection, gloves, cut-retardant pants/leg chaps, steel-toe boots.
• Test chain brake: Before every start – push forward to engage, pull back to release.
• Prevent kickback: Use low-kickback chain and bar; never cut with nose of bar; hold saw firmly with both hands.
• Correct starting: Drop start prohibited; use on-ground or in-run (between legs) method only.
• Fuel safely: Use fresh premium fuel with Stihl MotoMix or 50:1 mix with Stihl HP Ultra oil.

Most Common Issues (Gasoline Models)

• Won't start: Check fuel freshness; clean/replace air filter; check spark plug gap (0.5 mm); use correct starting procedure (cold/warm).
• Flooded: Set master control lever to RUN; full throttle; pull starter rope until it starts.
• Chain not oiling: Clean oil outlet hole and bar groove; check automatic oiler; use Stihl bar oil; adjust oiler screw if equipped.
• Loss of power: Clean air filter; clean spark arrestor screen; replace fuel filter; check carburetor settings (M-Tronic models self-adjust).
• Chain dull or loose: Sharpen with correct Stihl file (e.g., 5.2 mm for .325"); tension so chain snaps back when pulled.

Battery Models (MSA Series, AP/AK System)

• No power: Fully charge battery; clean battery contacts; ensure battery fully seated.
• Overload shutdown: Let saw cool; reduce cutting pressure; check chain tension.
• LED error codes: Refer to battery/charger LED chart in manual.

Maintenance Tips

• Daily: Clean air filter, check chain tension/sharpness, clean guide bar, check chain brake.
• Weekly: Clean cooling fins, inspect sprocket nose (rollomatic bars), clean oil ports.
• Seasonal: Replace spark plug, fuel filter, air filter; sharpen or replace chain.

Safety note: Always stop engine, remove spark plug boot or battery before any maintenance. Never operate with damaged components. Read complete manual before first use.