MS 211 Stihl Manual

The MS 211 is a lightweight, gasoline-powered chainsaw from Stihl, designed for occasional users and homeowners. It features STIHL's innovative Easy2Start™ system, an anti-vibration system, an Ematic™ lubrication system, a side-access chain tensioner, and a Quickstop® Plus chain brake. Below are key sections for safety, features, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

Features at a Glance

Key components: Engine with Easy2Start™, guide bar, saw chain, chain brake, anti-vibration handles, side-access chain tensioner, and Ematic™ lubrication system.

Feature	Description
Easy2Start™	Reduces pulling force required to start the engine
Ematic™ System	Directs chain oil precisely to reduce consumption
Quickstop® Plus	Inertia-activated chain brake for enhanced safety
Side-Access Tensioner	Allows chain adjustment without removing cover
Anti-Vibration	Reduces user fatigue during operation
Fuel & Oil Caps	Easy-to-open caps with retaining chains
Decompression Valve	Further reduces effort for starting
Chain Catcher	Helps reduce risk if chain breaks or derails
Throttle Interlock	Prevents accidental throttle activation
Muffler	Designed for reduced exhaust emissions

Safety Information

Read and understand all instructions before use. Always wear appropriate PPE.

1. Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): Always wear cut-resistant chaps, safety glasses, hearing protection, gloves, and sturdy boots.
2. Work Area Safety: Keep bystanders and pets at least 15 feet away. Ensure secure footing.
3. Fuel Safety: Refuel in a well-ventilated area, with engine off and cool. Use clean, fresh fuel mix.
4. Kickback Zone: Be aware of the upper quadrant of the guide bar tip. Do not let this part contact wood.

WARNING! Failure to follow safety instructions can result in serious injury or death. The chain brake is a safety device but does not eliminate all risk.

Assembly & First Use

Unpack and inspect contents. Assemble guide bar and chain.

1. Attach the guide bar: Place bar onto studs, ensuring correct orientation.
2. Install the chain: Fit chain over bar, ensuring cutting teeth face forward on top.
3. Install bar nuts and cover: Place clutch cover and hand-tighten nuts.
4. Tension the chain: Use side-access tensioner screw to achieve proper tension (slight sag on bottom).
5. Add fuel & oil: Fill fuel tank with correct gasoline/oil mix (50:1). Fill oil tank with STIHL chain oil.
6. Start the saw: Place on firm ground, engage chain brake, set master control lever to cold start position, pull starter rope.

CAUTION! Ensure chain brake is engaged before starting. Check chain tension after initial warm-up and retighten if necessary.

Specifications

• Engine Displacement: 35.2 cc
• Power Output: 1.8 kW / 2.4 bhp
• Fuel/Oil Mix: 50:1 (STIHL 2-Stroke Oil)
• Guide Bar Lengths: Typically 16" or 18"
• Chain Pitch/Gauge: 3/8" PMM / .050"
• Weight (Powerhead): Approximately 10.1 lbs (4.6 kg)
• Sound Pressure Level: ~ 106 dB(A)
• Vibration Level: Front/Rear Handle: ~ 4.5/2.5 m/s²
• Warranty: Limited warranty for personal use.

Controls and Components

Master Control Lever: Combines stop switch, choke, and run positions. Front Handle: Includes throttle trigger and throttle interlock. Rear Handle: Contains trigger lockout. Right Side: Chain brake lever, chain tensioner screw, oil filler cap.

Starting Procedure: Engage chain brake. Pull out master control lever to choke (cold start) or half-throttle (warm start). Press decompression valve (if equipped). Pull starter rope firmly until engine fires. Push master control lever in to run position. Disengage chain brake to begin cutting.

Operation Guide

Basic Cutting Techniques: Felling, limbing, bucking, and pruning.

1. Starting & Warm-up: Start saw as described. Allow to idle for 30-60 seconds before applying load.
2. Making a Cut: Hold saw firmly with both hands. Let the chain do the work; avoid forcing it.
3. Kickback Prevention: Maintain a firm grip. Do not cut with the tip. Be aware of pinch points.
4. Chain Brake Use: Engage manually by pushing lever forward if needed. Test function regularly.
5. Stopping: Release throttle, allow to idle briefly, move master control lever to STOP position.

Tip: Keep the chain sharp. A dull chain requires more force, increases wear, and is more dangerous.

Maintenance Schedule

Regular maintenance ensures performance, longevity, and safety.

Task	Frequency	Notes
Check Chain Tension	Before each use, after warming up	Chain should be snug but pull freely
Clean Air Filter	Every 5-10 hours of use	Tap clean or wash with soapy water
Check/Sharpen Chain	When cutting performance drops	Use correct round file and guide
Clean Cooling Fins	Every 25 hours	Remove debris from cylinder fins
Replace Spark Plug	Every 100 hours or annually	Use recommended STIHL plug
Clean Fuel Filter	Every 100 hours or as needed	Replace if damaged

WARNING! Perform all maintenance with the engine off, spark plug wire disconnected, and chain brake engaged.

Chain & Bar Care

Proper care extends life and ensures safe operation.

1. Sharpening: Use correct size round file and filing guide. Maintain correct filing angle (typically 30°). File all cutters to equal length.
2. Depth Gauges: File down depth gauges (rakers) with a flat file and gauge to maintain proper height difference.
3. Bar Maintenance: Regularly clean bar groove. Flip bar weekly for even wear. Dress bar rails if burred.
4. Lubrication: Always use STIHL chain oil or equivalent. Check oil flow before each use.

CAUTION! Always wear heavy gloves when handling the chain. A sharp chain is safer than a dull one.

Storage Guidelines

Prepare saw for storage to prevent fuel system issues.

1. Drain the fuel tank and run the engine until it stops to clear the carburetor.
2. Remove the chain and bar. Clean thoroughly and coat with oil to prevent rust.
3. Clean the entire saw, especially the air filter and cooling fins.
4. Store in a dry, secure place, out of reach of children.

CAUTION! Never store the saw with fuel in the tank for more than 30 days. Use fuel stabilizer if short-term storage is necessary.

Warranty Information

STIHL MS 211 includes a limited warranty for personal use. Proof of purchase is required. Warranty covers defects in materials and workmanship under normal use. It does not cover damage from misuse, neglect, improper maintenance, or use of non-STIHL parts/fuel. For warranty service, contact an authorized STIHL servicing dealer.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
Engine will not start	No fuel, flooded, bad spark, master control position	Check fuel, set lever to half-throttle, check spark plug, ensure choke is off if warm.
Engine starts then dies	Clogged air filter, fuel filter, or carburetor adjustment	Clean/replace air filter. Check fuel filter. May need carb adjustment by dealer.
Chain does not turn	Chain brake engaged, clutch worn, sprocket damaged	Disengage chain brake. Inspect clutch and sprocket for wear.
Chain throws oil excessively	Oil pump setting too high	Adjust oil flow via screw (if equipped) or consult dealer.
Chain dulls quickly	Cutting dirty wood, hitting ground, improper sharpening	Avoid cutting into dirt. Sharpen correctly. Check depth gauges.
Excessive vibration	Loose components, unbalanced chain, damaged AV mounts	Tighten all nuts/bolts. Balance chain after sharpening. Check anti-vibration elements.

Service: For repairs beyond basic maintenance, contact an authorized STIHL dealer.

Support: Visit www.stihlusa.com or contact your local STIHL dealer.