MS210 Stihl Chainsaw Manual

The Stihl MS210 is a lightweight, professional-grade chainsaw featuring a powerful 2-stroke engine, STIHL Quickstop® inertia chain brake, Ematic™ lubrication system, and anti-vibration system. Designed for demanding cutting tasks, it offers easy starting, low emissions, and ergonomic handling. Below are key sections for safety, features, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

Features at a Glance

Key components: Engine with decompression valve, STIHL Quickstop® inertia chain brake, side-access chain tensioner, Ematic™ lubrication system, anti-vibration handles, and tool-free air filter cover.

Feature	Description
Engine Type	2-stroke, single-cylinder, air-cooled
Displacement	35.2 cc
Power Output	1.8 kW / 2.4 hp
Fuel Tank Capacity	0.33 L
Oil Tank Capacity	0.20 L
Guide Bar Lengths	14" to 16" (35 cm to 40 cm)
Chain Pitch/Gauge	3/8" PM / 1.3 mm
Weight (powerhead)	4.2 kg
Ignition System	Electronic, capacitor discharge (CDI)
Sound Power Level	112 dB(A)

Safety Instructions

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

1. Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): Wear safety helmet, hearing protection, eye protection, gloves, chainsaw protective trousers, and sturdy boots.
2. Work Area Safety: Keep bystanders and pets at least 15 feet away. Ensure secure footing.
3. Chain Brake Test: Test the inertia chain brake before each use by pulling the front hand guard forward.
4. Kickback Zone: Avoid contact with the upper quarter of the guide bar tip.

WARNING! Failure to follow safety instructions can result in serious injury or death. Never operate a chainsaw while fatigued or under the influence.

Assembly & Preparation

Unpack and inspect contents. Assemble guide bar and chain.

1. Attach Guide Bar & Chain: Place chain on bar, align with drive sprocket, fit bar onto studs, and tighten nuts finger-tight.
2. Tension Chain: Use side-access tensioning screw to achieve proper tension (chain should snap back when pulled from bar).
3. Fill Fluids: Use STIHL MotoMix® or 50:1 fuel/oil mixture. Fill chain oil reservoir with STIHL chain oil.
4. Final Tightening: With chain tensioned, securely tighten bar nuts.

CAUTION! Ensure chain is installed with cutters facing forward on top of bar. Incorrect installation causes kickback.

Specifications

• Model: STIHL MS 210.
• Engine Power: 1.8 kW (2.4 hp).
• Fuel/Oil Ratio: 50:1 (STIHL 2-stroke oil).
• Idle Speed: 2,800 rpm.
• Maximum Power Speed: 13,000 rpm.
• Spark Plug: Bosch WSR 6 F or equivalent.
• Vibration Levels (Front/Rear): 4.5/2.5 m/s².
• Warranty: 1 year commercial, 2 year private use.
• Emissions Compliance: EPA Phase II, EU Stage II.

Controls and Components

Main Controls: Master Control Lever (combines choke, throttle lock, stop switch), Throttle Trigger, Throttle Trigger Lockout, Chain Brake Lever, Decompression Valve.

Components: Fuel Cap, Oil Cap, Air Filter Cover, Muffler, Spark Arrestor Screen, Chain Catcher, Rear Handle, Front Handle with Vibration Dampeners.

Operation: Master Control positions: STOP (0), RUN (I), CHOKE (•). Decompression valve reduces pulling force for starting. Chain brake activates manually via front hand guard or automatically by inertia.

Starting & Stopping

Cold Start Procedure:

1. Place saw on firm ground. Engage chain brake.
2. Press decompression valve (if equipped).
3. Set Master Control to CHOKE (•).
4. Press purge bulb 5-6 times until fuel is visible.
5. Pull starter handle sharply until engine fires (1-3 pulls).
6. Immediately move Master Control to RUN (I).
7. Pull starter handle again to start engine.
8. Blip throttle to disengage fast idle.

Warm Start: Master Control in RUN (I) position. No choke needed.

Stopping: Move Master Control to STOP (0).

Operating Instructions

Proper cutting techniques ensure safety and efficiency.

1. Grip: Hold front handle with left hand, rear handle with right hand. Thumbs wrapped underneath.
2. Stance: Feet shoulder-width apart, left foot slightly forward.
3. Starting Cut: Apply light throttle, let chain touch wood gradually.
4. Kickback Prevention: Never cut with bar tip. Maintain firm grip.
5. Buckling: Use wedges for large logs to prevent pinching.
6. Limbing: Cut branches from opposite side of trunk, working from base to top.

Tip: Let the chain do the work; avoid forcing the saw.

Maintenance Schedule

Regular maintenance ensures longevity and safe operation.

Interval	Task
Before each use	Check chain tension, sharpness, brake function, fluid levels
Every 5 hours	Clean air filter, check spark plug
Every 20 hours	Clean spark arrestor screen, check fuel filter
Every 100 hours	Clean cylinder fins, check carburetor adjustment*
Annually	Replace fuel line, impulse line, and diaphragm (if worn)

*Carburetor adjustment should be performed by authorized STIHL dealer.

Chain Sharpening & Tensioning

Sharp chain reduces effort and kickback risk.

1. Sharpening: Use round file matching chain pitch (typically 4.0 mm). Maintain 30° filing angle. File each cutter equally.
2. Depth Gauge: Check and file depth gauges with flat file and gauge tool.
3. Tensioning: Chain should be snug against bar but pull freely. Re-tension when chain sags 2-3 mm from bar.
4. Lubrication: Ensure oiler port is clear. Chain should throw a fine line of oil during operation.

CAUTION! Always wear gloves when handling chain. Secure bar when filing.

Storage Guidelines

Proper storage prevents fuel system issues.

1. Drain fuel tank and run carburetor dry.
2. Remove chain, clean, and soak in oil. Clean guide bar groove and oil holes.
3. Clean entire saw, especially cooling fins and air filter.
4. Store in dry place, covered, out of reach of children.
5. For long-term storage (>30 days), treat fuel system with STIHL fuel stabilizer.

WARNING! Never store saw with fuel in tank for extended periods. Fuel deteriorates and damages carburetor.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
Engine will not start	No spark, flooded, stale fuel	Check spark plug; set Master Control to RUN; use fresh fuel mix.
Engine starts then dies	Clogged fuel filter, air filter, carburetor	Replace fuel filter; clean air filter; seek dealer service.
Chain does not turn	Brake engaged, clutch worn, sprocket damaged	Disengage brake; inspect clutch and sprocket; replace if worn.
Excessive vibration	Loose components, unbalanced chain	Tighten all fasteners; sharpen chain evenly; balance chain.
Chain throws oil but doesn't cut	Dull chain, incorrect filing angle	Sharpen chain properly; maintain 30° angle.
Overheating	Dirty cooling fins, lean fuel mixture	Clean fins; check carburetor adjustment (dealer).

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

Support: 1-800-467-8445; www.stihlusa.com