STIHL 180C Chainsaw Manual

The STIHL 180C is a lightweight, professional-grade chainsaw designed for demanding cutting tasks. It features a powerful engine, anti-vibration system, quick-stop chain brake, and STIHL's Ematic lubrication system for reduced oil consumption. Below are key sections for safety, features, assembly, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

Features at a Glance

Key components: Engine with decompression valve, Anti-Vibration System, Quickstop® chain brake, Side-access chain tensioner, STIHL Ematic™ lubrication system, and Ergonomic handle design.

Safety Information

Read and understand all instructions before operation. Always wear proper Personal Protective Equipment (PPE).

1. PPE Required: Safety glasses, hearing protection, gloves, chainsaw chaps, and sturdy boots.
2. Work Area Safety: Clear area of obstacles and bystanders. Ensure secure footing.
3. Fuel Safety: Mix fuel outdoors. Use STIHL 2-stroke oil and fresh gasoline (min. 89 octane). Store fuel in approved container.
4. Chain Brake Test: Test function before each use by engaging brake with front hand guard.
5. Kickback Awareness: Be aware of kickback zone (upper quadrant of bar nose). Never cut with this area.

WARNING! Failure to follow safety instructions can result in serious injury or death. Never operate a chainsaw while tired, under the influence, or in poor weather conditions.

Assembly & Preparation

Unpack and inspect contents. Assemble guide bar and chain.

1. Attach Guide Bar & Chain: Loosen bar nuts. Place chain on sprocket, ensuring cutting edges face forward on top of bar. Fit bar over studs. Adjust tension.
2. Chain Tension: Adjust via side knob until chain fits snug against bar but can be pulled around by hand. Tighten bar nuts. Re-check tension.
3. Fill Fuel & Oil: Use correct fuel/oil mix (50:1). Fill oil tank with STIHL chain oil or equivalent.
4. Check Controls: Ensure throttle trigger, throttle lockout, and chain brake function properly.

CAUTION! Always wear protective gloves when handling the chain. The chain is extremely sharp.

Specifications

• Engine Displacement: 1.8 cu in (29.4 cm³)
• Power Output: 1.8 kW (2.4 bhp)
• Fuel/Oil Ratio: 50:1 (STIHL 2-Stroke Oil)
• Ignition System: Electronic, capacitor discharge
• Carburetor: Diaphragm-type with manual choke
• Starter: Rewind starter with decompression valve
• Chain Pitch: 3/8" PMM3
• Chain Gauge: 0.050" (1.3 mm)
• Sound Power Level (LWA): 112 dB(A)
• Vibration Levels (ah, ah): Left/Right Handle: 3.5/4.5 m/s²

Controls and Components

Familiarize yourself with all controls before starting.

Main Controls: - Throttle Trigger: Controls engine speed. Release to idle. - Throttle Lockout: Must be depressed to engage throttle trigger (safety feature). - Master Control Lever: Combines choke, run, and stop positions. - Chain Brake / Front Hand Guard: Push forward to engage brake; pull back to disengage. - Decompression Valve: Button to reduce cylinder pressure for easier starting. - Fuel Cap & Oil Cap: Clearly marked for their respective tanks. - Side Chain Tensioner: Knob for adjusting chain tension.

Starting & Operation

Cold Start Procedure:

1. Place saw on firm ground. Engage chain brake.
2. Press decompression valve (if equipped).
3. Set Master Control Lever to choke position (full down).
4. Pump primer bulb 5-7 times until fuel is visible.
5. Pull starter rope sharply until engine 'pops' (usually 1-3 pulls).
6. Move Master Control Lever to half-throttle position (mid-position).
7. Pull starter rope again until engine starts.
8. Briefly blip throttle to disengage fast idle. Release chain brake.

Warm Start: Set lever to run position (horizontal) and pull starter.

Cutting Techniques: Use full throttle when cutting. Let chain do the work; do not force. Be aware of pinch points, especially when cutting logs under tension.

Chain & Bar Maintenance

Regular maintenance ensures optimal performance and safety.

1. Sharpening: Use correct round file size (typically 5/32" or 4.0mm). Maintain correct filing angle (30°). File all cutters to equal length. File depth gauges (rakers) with a flat file and gauge.
2. Tension Check: Check frequently, especially when new. Chain should be snug but pull freely. A loose chain can derail; an overtightened chain can damage the bar and engine.
3. Bar Maintenance: Clean bar groove regularly. Flip bar weekly for even wear. Check for burrs on rails and file smooth.
4. Lubrication: Always run with oiler engaged. Check oil flow by pointing bar tip at a light surface (like a stump) at high RPM; a fine line of oil should appear.

Engine Maintenance

Air Filter: Clean regularly (every few hours of use). Tap out debris or wash in soapy water (if foam). Allow to dry completely before re-installing.

Spark Plug: Check gap (0.020" / 0.5mm). Clean electrode with wire brush. Replace if worn or fouled. Recommended: NGK BPMR7A.

Fuel Filter: Replace annually or if clogged.

Spark Arrestor Screen (Muffler): Clean carbon deposits every 50 hours to prevent overheating.

Carburetor Adjustment: Factory pre-set. Only adjust if necessary (poor performance, erratic idle) using special STIHL adjustment tool.

Storage

Long-Term Storage (Over 30 days):

1. Drain fuel tank completely and run engine until it stops to clear carburetor.
2. Remove spark plug, add 1 teaspoon of engine oil into cylinder, pull starter slowly 2-3 times to coat internals, reinstall plug.
3. Clean entire saw, especially cooling fins and air intake.
4. Remove chain, clean, and store in oil. Clean and oil bar.
5. Store in a dry, dust-free place, away from children.

Regulatory Information

This product complies with relevant EPA and CARB emissions standards for handheld engines. It meets ANSI B175.1 safety standards for gasoline-powered chainsaws. The muffler is equipped with a USDA approved spark arrestor. STIHL is a registered trademark of Andreas Stihl AG & Co. KG. For genuine parts, accessories, and service, contact an authorized STIHL servicing dealer.

Troubleshooting

Service: For repairs beyond basic maintenance, contact an authorized STIHL dealer. Use only STIHL-approved replacement parts.