owner's manual stihl msa 200c chainsaw

The STIHL MSA 200 C is a professional-grade, battery-powered chainsaw designed for arborists and demanding users. It features a brushless electric motor, STIHL AP System batteries, quick chain tensioning, Ematic chain lubrication, an ergonomic handle, and a lightweight yet robust magnesium housing. This manual covers safety, features, assembly, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting. Always read and understand this manual before use.

Features at a Glance

Key components: Brushless electric motor, Magnesium housing, Ergonomic front and rear handles, Quick chain tensioner, Ematic lubrication system, Chain brake, Battery status indicator, and AP battery system compatibility.

Safety Instructions

Working with a chainsaw is dangerous. Failure to follow instructions can result in serious injury or death.

1. Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): Always wear chainsaw protective pants, safety glasses, hearing protection, gloves, sturdy boots, and a helmet system.
2. Pre-Operation Check: Inspect saw for damage, ensure chain is sharp and properly tensioned, check oil level, and verify battery is charged and securely locked.
3. Work Area Safety: Keep bystanders and pets at least 15 feet away. Ensure secure footing and no tripping hazards.
4. Operating Practices: Hold saw firmly with both hands. Do not operate above shoulder height. Beware of kickback. Never cut with the tip of the bar.
5. Battery Safety: Use only STIHL AP batteries and chargers. Do not expose to fire or water. Do not disassemble.

WARNING! Kickback can occur suddenly and violently, causing loss of control. Always engage the chain brake when not making a cut.

Assembly & Preparation

Unpack and inspect all parts. Assembly requires attaching the guide bar and chain, and filling the oil tank.

1. Attach Guide Bar & Chain: Place the chain on the bar, ensuring cutting teeth face forward on top. Fit the bar onto the studs. Place the chain sprocket cover and tighten the nuts hand-tight.
2. Tension the Chain: Use the side-mounted tensioning wheel to adjust. Proper tension: The chain should snap back against the bar when pulled away, but still be able to be rotated by hand.
3. Final Tightening: Hold the bar tip up and fully tighten the bar nuts.
4. Fill Oil Tank: Use STIHL biodegradable chain oil or a quality substitute. Fill to the marked level.
5. Install Battery: Insert a charged AP battery until it clicks and locks into place.

CAUTION! Always wear protective gloves when handling the chain. Ensure the chain brake is engaged during assembly.

Specifications

• Model: STIHL MSA 200 C
• Power Type: Battery Electric (Cordless)
• Motor: Brushless
• Recommended Battery: STIHL AP 300 S / AP 500 S
• Voltage: 36V System
• Guide Bar Length (Standard): 14 inches (35 cm)
• Chain Pitch/Gauge: 1/4" P / .043" (1.1 mm)
• Oil Tank Volume: Approximately 5.1 fl oz (150 ml)
• Sound Pressure Level: Typically below 90 dB(A)
• Vibration Level (Front/Rear Handle): Low, meets professional standards
• Weight (Powerhead without battery): Approx. 6.6 lbs (3.0 kg)

Controls and Components

Familiarize yourself with all controls before starting the saw.

Main Components: Front handle with throttle trigger, Rear handle, Chain brake / front hand guard, Throttle lockout, Master control lever (for ON/OFF and chain brake release), Battery release button, Chain tensioning wheel, Oil filler cap, Battery status indicator.

Operation: To Start: Press and hold the throttle lockout, then squeeze the throttle trigger. Push the master control lever forward to the run position. The saw is now ready. To Stop: Release the throttle trigger. The chain stops immediately. Push the master control lever down to the stop position. Chain Brake: Can be engaged manually by pushing the front hand guard forward, or automatically by inertia in a kickback event. To release, pull the hand guard back toward the rear handle.

Operation

Follow safe cutting practices at all times.

1. Starting a Cut: Ensure the chain is not touching anything. Engage the throttle to full speed before touching the wood.
2. Basic Cutting: Let the saw do the work. Apply light downward pressure. For felling and limbing, use proper techniques as described in STIHL training materials.
3. Kickback Zone: Avoid contact with the upper quarter of the bar tip, as this is the primary kickback danger zone.
4. Lubrication Check: Regularly check oil flow by pointing the bar tip at a light-colored surface (e.g., stump) at full throttle. A fine line of oil should be visible.
5. Battery Monitoring: Observe the battery indicator. Plan to change the battery before it is fully depleted to maintain power.

Tip: Make sure the chain is properly lubricated at all times. A dry chain will dull quickly and can damage the bar.

Playing DVD Media

Note: This section is not applicable to a chainsaw. The following section replaces it with relevant content.

Maintenance & Cleaning

Regular maintenance ensures safety, performance, and longevity. Always remove the battery before performing any maintenance.

1. Daily/Pre-Use: Check chain tension and sharpness. Check oil level. Clean air intake vents. Inspect for loose nuts or damage.
2. Cleaning: Wipe the housing clean with a dry cloth. Use a brush to clear sawdust from the chain brake area, sprocket cover, and cooling fins. Never use compressed air or water.
3. Air Filter: Clean periodically by tapping out debris or washing with soap and water (if applicable). Let dry completely before reinserting.
4. Battery Contacts: Keep clean and dry. Wipe with a dry cloth if dirty.
5. Professional Service: Have your STIHL dealer inspect the saw annually for wear on sprockets, bearings, and brushes (if applicable).

WARNING! Never perform maintenance with the battery installed. A sharp chain is a safe chain; a dull chain increases the risk of kickback.

Chain & Bar Care

Proper care of the cutting attachment is critical.

1. Sharpening: Use a round file and filing guide matching your chain pitch. Maintain the correct filing angle (typically 30°). File all cutters to the same length.
2. Depth Gauges: File down depth gauges (rakers) with a flat file and gauge to maintain proper height relative to cutters. This controls chip size and reduces kickback risk.
3. Bar Maintenance: Regularly clean the bar groove. Flip the bar over each time you sharpen the chain to promote even wear. Dress the bar rails with a flat file if burred.
4. Chain Replacement: Replace the chain when cutters are worn down to the marked line, or if damaged.

CAUTION! Always wear gloves when handling or sharpening the chain. Secure the bar in a vise during sharpening.

Storage

Store the chainsaw and battery properly to prolong life.

1. Clean the saw thoroughly.
2. Remove the battery. Store batteries in a cool, dry place, away from metal objects, with a charge level of 40-60%.
3. Apply a light coat of oil to the chain and bar to prevent rust.
4. Store the saw in a dry, secure location, out of reach of children.
5. For long-term storage (over 3 months), consult the battery manual for specific storage charge levels.

CAUTION! Do not store the saw with the battery installed. Do not store in damp or extremely hot/cold environments.

Regulatory Information

This product complies with relevant safety and electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) standards. The STIHL MSA 200 C is a professional tool. The lithium-ion battery is subject to transportation regulations; contact STIHL for disposal and shipping information. Copyright and all trademarks are property of ANDREAS STIHL AG & Co. KG. For genuine parts, accessories, and service, contact an authorized STIHL dealer.

Troubleshooting

Dealer Service: For problems not resolved above, contact your authorized STIHL dealer. Do not attempt to repair the motor or electronics yourself.

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