Motosierra Stihl MS 361 Manual

The Stihl MS 361 is a professional-grade chainsaw featuring a 59.0 cc engine, electronic ignition, anti-vibration system, quickstop chain brake, decompression valve, side-access chain tensioner, and STIHL Ematic lubrication system. Designed for demanding forestry and arborist work, it offers high power-to-weight ratio, easy starting, and enhanced safety features. Below are key sections for safety, features, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

Features at a Glance

Key components: Engine with electronic ignition (M-Tronic on some models), anti-vibration system, Quickstop chain brake, side-access chain tensioner, decompression valve, and STIHL Ematic oiling system.

Safety Instructions

Read all instructions before operation. Always wear protective equipment.

1. Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): Wear chainsaw chaps, helmet with face shield, hearing protection, gloves, and steel-toe boots.
2. Work Area Safety: Clear area of bystanders, ensure secure footing, and be aware of kickback zone.
3. Chain Brake: Test before each use by pushing front hand guard forward.
4. Fuel Safety: Mix fuel outdoors, use STIHL 2-stroke oil at 50:1 ratio, store in approved container.

WARNING! Kickback can occur suddenly; always grip saw firmly and avoid contact with bar tip. Never operate saw above shoulder height.

Assembly & First Use

Unpack and inspect contents. Assemble guide bar and chain.

1. Attach guide bar: Remove side cover, align bar with studs, ensure chain direction is correct (cutting teeth forward on top).
2. Install chain: Place chain over sprocket and bar, adjust tension with side knob (chain should snap back when pulled).
3. Fill tanks: Add mixed fuel to fuel tank and STIHL chain oil to oil tank.
4. Initial start: Place saw on ground, engage chain brake, set master control lever to cold start position, pull starter cord until engine fires.

CAUTION! Ensure chain brake is engaged during starting. Keep hands away from chain at all times.

Specifications

• Engine: 59.0 cc single-cylinder two-stroke.
• Power Output: 3.6 kW (4.9 bhp) at 9,000 rpm.
• Maximum Engine Speed: 13,500 rpm.
• Idle Speed: 2,800 rpm.
• Fuel/Oil Ratio: 50:1 with STIHL 2-stroke oil.
• Sound Pressure Level: 106 dB(A).
• Vibration Levels: Front handle 4.2 m/s², rear handle 3.8 m/s².
• Spark Plug: Bosch WSR 6 F or NGK BPMR 7 A (gap 0.5 mm).
• Warranty: 12 months commercial use, 24 months private use.

Controls and Components

Master Control Lever: Combines stop switch, choke, and run positions. Throttle Trigger: Controls engine speed. Throttle Lockout: Must be pressed to engage throttle. Chain Brake Lever: Front hand guard activates brake. Decompression Valve: Reduces pulling resistance during start. Side-Access Chain Tensioner: Adjusts chain tension without tools.

Main Components: Fuel tank cap, oil tank cap, air filter cover, spark plug, muffler, rear handle with anti-vibration, front handle with chain brake.

Starting & Stopping Procedure

Starting (Cold Engine):

1. Engage chain brake by pushing hand guard forward.
2. Set master control lever to choke position (full down).
3. Press decompression valve (if equipped).
4. Place saw on ground, hold front handle with left hand, place right foot in rear handle.
5. Pull starter cord sharply until engine fires (1-3 pulls).
6. Move master control lever to half-throttle position, pull until engine starts.
7. Blip throttle to disengage fast idle.

Stopping: Release throttle, let engine idle, push master control lever up to STOP position.

Tip: For warm restart, set master control lever to run position (no choke).

Chain & Bar Maintenance

Chain Sharpening: Use round file (4.0 mm for .325" chain) at 30° angle. File each cutter evenly. Check depth gauges with flat file.

1. Chain Tension: Adjust when chain sags from bar. Loosen bar nuts, turn tensioning screw until chain snaps back, tighten nuts.
2. Bar Maintenance: Clean bar groove weekly, flip bar monthly for even wear.
3. Lubrication: Use STIHL chain oil only. Check oil flow by running saw over light surface; oil line should appear.
4. Sprocket: Inspect for wear; replace if teeth are hooked.

WARNING! Always wear gloves when handling chain. Ensure saw is off and cool before maintenance.

Engine Maintenance

Air Filter: Clean weekly (more often in dusty conditions). Remove filter, tap clean, wash in soapy water if very dirty, dry completely.

Spark Plug: Check gap (0.5 mm), clean electrode, replace if worn.

Fuel Filter: Replace annually or if clogged.

Muffler: Clean spark arrestor screen monthly.

Cylinder Fins: Keep cooling fins clean for proper heat dissipation.

Storage & Transport

Long-Term Storage: Drain fuel tank, run engine until it stops to clear carburetor. Remove chain, clean and oil it. Store in dry place.

Transport: Engage chain brake, fit scabbard over bar. Secure saw to prevent movement.

CAUTION! Never store saw with fuel in tank for more than 30 days. Fuel may degrade and damage engine.

Warranty Information

STIHL Limited Warranty: 12 months for commercial use, 24 months for private use from date of purchase. Covers defects in materials and workmanship. Does not cover normal wear, misuse, or improper maintenance. Keep purchase receipt for warranty claims. For service, contact authorized STIHL dealer. For support, visit www.stihl.com or contact STIHL customer service.

Troubleshooting

Service Interval: Have saw serviced annually by authorized STIHL dealer.

Customer Service: 1-800-467-8445; www.stihl.com