MS 441 STIHL Manual

The STIHL MS 441 is a professional-grade chainsaw featuring a powerful engine with STIHL M-Tronic engine management for automatic carburetor adjustment, anti-vibration system, Ematic™ lubrication, QuickStop® Super inertia chain brake, side-access chain tensioner, decompression valve, and STIHL ElastoStart™ for easier starting. Below are key sections for safety, features, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

Features at a Glance

Key components: Engine with M-Tronic, anti-vibration handles, QuickStop® Super chain brake, side-access chain tensioner, Ematic™ lubrication system, and decompression valve.

Feature	Description
STIHL M-Tronic	Automatic engine adjustment for optimal performance
QuickStop® Super	Inertia-activated chain brake for safety
Ematic™ System	Efficient chain lubrication with reduced oil consumption
Anti-Vibration	Reduces operator fatigue during extended use
Decompression Valve	Eases starting by reducing compression
Side-Access Tensioner	Easy chain adjustment from the side
ElastoStart™	Reduces starting effort with cushioned starter handle
Fuel System	Diaphragm carburetor with fuel pump
Exhaust	STIHL pre-separation air filtration system
Ignition	Electronic ignition with advanced timing

Safety Information

Read all instructions before operation. Wear proper PPE.

1. Personal Protective Equipment: Wear safety glasses, hearing protection, gloves, chainsaw chaps, and sturdy boots.
2. Work Area Safety: Clear area of obstacles; ensure secure footing; keep bystanders away.
3. Chain Brake: Test before each use; engage when carrying or moving short distances.
4. Kickback Awareness: Maintain secure grip; avoid contact with bar nose; use reduced-kickback chain.

WARNING! Chainsaws are dangerous; improper use can cause serious injury or death. Always follow safety procedures.

Assembly & Preparation

Unpack and inspect contents. Assemble guide bar and chain.

1. Attach guide bar: Loosen bar nuts, position bar on studs, align chain on sprocket.
2. Install chain: Place chain on bar with cutters facing forward; adjust tension.
3. Fill fluids: Add STIHL HP Ultra oil to fuel mix (50:1); fill bar and chain oil reservoir.
4. Check controls: Ensure throttle trigger, throttle lockout, and chain brake function properly.

CAUTION! Use only STIHL-approved fuels and lubricants. Do not use automotive oil.

Technical Specifications

• Engine Displacement: 70.7 cc (4.3 cu. in.)
• Power Output: 4.4 kW (6.0 bhp)
• Fuel Capacity: 750 ml (25.4 fl. oz.)
• Oil Capacity: 300 ml (10.1 fl. oz.)
• Guide Bar Lengths: 16" to 28" (recommended)
• Chain Pitch: 3/8" or .404" (depending on configuration)
• Weight (powerhead): 6.6 kg (14.6 lbs)
• Sound Pressure: 106 dB(A)
• Vibration Levels: Front handle: 4.2 m/s²; Rear handle: 5.8 m/s²

Controls and Components

Main controls: Throttle trigger, throttle lockout, master control lever, chain brake handle, decompression valve, choke control, primer bulb.

Master Control Lever: Combines stop switch, choke, and start positions.

Maintenance Points: Air filter cover, spark plug, chain tensioner, oil filler cap, fuel cap. Safety Features: Chain brake, throttle lockout, right-hand guard, chain catcher.

Starting & Stopping

Cold Start: Engage chain brake; set master control to choke; press primer 5-6 times; pull starter cord until engine fires; move control to half-throttle; pull to start. Warm Start: Set to half-throttle position; pull starter.

1. Place saw on firm ground; engage chain brake.
2. Press decompression valve (if equipped).
3. Follow cold/warm start procedure.
4. Disengage chain brake before cutting.
5. To stop: Move master control to STOP position.

Tip: Always engage chain brake when starting or carrying saw.

Operating Instructions

Proper cutting techniques for felling, limbing, and bucking.

1. Felling: Plan escape path; make notch cut; make felling cut; use wedges if needed.
2. Limbing: Stand uphill; cut from trunk outward; support limbs when possible.
3. Bucking: Support log; cut from top; avoid pinching chain.
4. Kickback Prevention: Hold firmly; don't cut with bar nose; maintain chain sharpness.
5. M-Tronic Operation: System auto-adjusts; no manual carburetor adjustment needed.

WARNING! Never operate above shoulder height or on unstable surfaces.

Maintenance Schedule

Daily: Check chain tension, sharpness, and lubrication; clean air filter; inspect for damage. Weekly: Clean cooling fins; check spark plug; clean fuel filter. Monthly: Check anti-vibration elements; inspect bar for wear; clean exhaust screen.

Chain & Bar Care

Chain sharpening: Use round file and guide; maintain correct angle (30°). Bar maintenance: Clean groove; flip regularly for even wear; check for straightness.

CAUTION! Always wear gloves when handling chain. Ensure chain brake is engaged during maintenance.

Storage Guidelines

Long-term storage: Empty fuel tank; run carburetor dry; remove chain and bar; clean thoroughly; store in dry place.

CAUTION! Fuel left in tank can deteriorate and damage fuel system. Use fuel stabilizer if storing less than 30 days.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
Engine won't start	Fuel, spark, or air	Check fuel mix; clean spark plug; clean air filter; check decompression valve.
Engine runs poorly	Clogged filter or carb	Clean air filter; check fuel filter; M-Tronic may need reset (consult dealer).
Chain doesn't turn	Brake engaged or clutch	Disengage chain brake; check clutch springs; inspect sprocket.
Excessive vibration	Loose components	Tighten all fasteners; check anti-vibration mounts; balance chain.
Poor lubrication	Oil system clogged	Clean oil passages; check oil pump; use correct oil viscosity.

Reset M-Tronic: Start and run at full throttle for 1 minute (if equipped).

Service: Authorized STIHL dealers only. Visit www.stihlusa.com or call 1-800-467-8445.