stihl 210 chainsaw manual

The STIHL 210 chainsaw is a lightweight, easy-to-use chainsaw designed for homeowners and occasional users. It features a powerful gasoline engine, an anti-vibration system, a quick-stop chain brake, an automatic oiler, and STIHL's Ematic chain 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, guide bar, saw chain, chain brake lever, throttle trigger, choke control, fuel tank, oil tank, and anti-vibration system.

Feature	Description
Engine	STIHL 2-stroke gasoline engine for reliable power
Guide Bar	Available in various lengths (e.g., 16") for different cutting tasks
Saw Chain	Low-kickback chain with Ematic lubrication system
Chain Brake	Quick-stop inertia-activated brake for operator safety
Anti-Vibration System	Reduces user fatigue during operation
Automatic Oiler	Lubricates chain and bar during use
Fuel Tank	Integrated tank for gasoline/oil mixture
Oil Tank	Separate tank for chain and bar lubricant
Throttle Trigger	Controls engine speed; includes throttle trigger lockout
Choke Control	Assists with cold starting

Safety Information

Read and understand all safety instructions before operation.

1. Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): Always wear safety glasses, hearing protection, gloves, chainsaw chaps/pants, and sturdy boots.
2. Pre-Operation Check: Inspect chainsaw for damage, ensure chain is sharp and properly tensioned, check fuel and oil levels.
3. Operating Zone: Keep bystanders and pets at least 15 feet away. Be aware of your surroundings.
4. Kickback Danger: Understand kickback causes; always grip saw firmly with both hands; do not cut with the tip of the bar.

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 & First Use

Unpack and inspect contents. Assemble guide bar and chain.

1. Attach Guide Bar & Chain: Place bar on mounting studs. Loop chain over bar with cutters facing forward on top. Adjust tension.
2. Fill Fuel Tank: Use fresh, high-quality gasoline mixed with STIHL 2-stroke engine oil at a 50:1 ratio. Shake well.
3. Fill Oil Tank: Use STIHL chain oil or a quality bar & chain oil.
4. Check Chain Brake: Ensure brake is disengaged (pulled back toward front handle) before starting.

CAUTION! Fuel is highly flammable. Refuel in a well-ventilated area, away from sparks or flames. Allow engine to cool before refueling.

Specifications

• Engine Displacement: Approximately 30.1 cc.
• Power Output: 1.3 kW.
• Fuel Capacity: Approx. 0.27 US pt.
• Oil Capacity: Approx. 0.20 US pt.
• Guide Bar Lengths: Typically 12" to 16".
• Chain Pitch/Gauge: 3/8" PMM / .050".
• Weight (without bar/chain): Approx. 8.6 lbs.
• Sound Power Level: 106 dB(A).
• Vibration Levels: Front/Rear Handle: 4.5/3.5 m/s².

Controls and Components

Familiarize yourself with all controls before starting.

Main Controls: On/Off Switch (I/O), Choke Control (for cold start), Throttle Trigger & Lockout, Chain Brake Lever (Front Hand Guard), Master Control Lever (combines choke/run functions on some models).

Other Components: Decompression Valve (eases starting), Fuel & Oil Tank Caps, Spark Plug, Air Filter Cover, Muffler, Chain Tensioner, Rear Handle with Anti-Vibration Elements.

Fuel & Chain Oil

Using the correct fuels and lubricants is critical for performance and longevity.

1. Fuel Mix: Use 89 octane (or higher) unleaded gasoline. Mix with STIHL 2-Stroke Engine Oil at a 50:1 ratio. Do not use automotive oil or fuel older than 60 days.
2. Chain Oil: Use STIHL chain oil or a high-quality, biodegradable bar & chain oil for optimal lubrication and reduced wear. Do not use waste oil.
3. Filling: Clean area around caps. Fill slowly to avoid spills. Tighten caps securely.

Tip: Use a STIHL mixing bottle or pre-measured oil containers for accurate fuel mixing.

Starting & Stopping

Follow proper procedure to ensure safe and reliable starts.

Cold Start:

1. Place saw on firm, level ground. Engage chain brake.
2. Press fuel primer bulb (if equipped) 5-10 times.
3. Set Master Control Lever to Choke position (or set choke).
4. Pull starter rope sharply until engine 'fires' (usually 2-5 pulls).
5. Immediately move lever to Half-Throttle position. Pull starter rope to start.
6. Briefly blip throttle to disengage fast idle. Disengage chain brake.

Warm Start: Set Master Control Lever to Run/On position. Pull starter rope.

Stopping: Release throttle. Press and hold the On/Off switch in the "O" (Off) position until engine stops.

WARNING! Never drop-start or start the saw above waist height. Always start with the chain brake engaged.

Cutting Techniques

Proper technique ensures safety and efficiency.

1. Basic Stance: Stand with feet shoulder-width apart, firm footing. Hold saw with both hands, left arm straight, right arm slightly bent.
2. Buckling (Cutting Logs on Ground): Support log. Cut from top. For large logs, cut from top, then roll and finish from opposite side to avoid pinching.
3. Limbing: Cut branches from bottom of tree working toward top. Keep trunk between you and the saw.
4. Avoiding Pinch/Kickback: Be aware of log tension. Use wedges for cuts that may close. Never cut with the upper tip (kickback zone) of the bar.

CAUTION! Do not operate saw above shoulder height or on a ladder. Plan your cut and escape path before starting.

Maintenance Schedule

Regular maintenance ensures safe operation and long life.

Interval	Task
Before Each Use	Check chain tension, sharpness, and lubrication. Inspect for loose parts/damage.
Every 5 Hours	Clean air filter. Check spark plug.
Every 20 Hours	Clean spark arrestor screen in muffler (if equipped).
Every Season/Annually	Replace fuel filter. Clean cooling fins. Have saw serviced by an authorized STIHL dealer.
As Needed	Sharpen chain. Clean saw exterior. Replace worn bar/chain/sprocket.

Chain Sharpening

A sharp chain cuts faster, safer, and reduces wear on the saw.

1. Secure the bar in a vise. Identify cutters that are shorter (the "benchmark") and sharpen all others to match.
2. Use a round file of the correct size (typically 5/32" for 3/8" PMM chain). Hold file at specified angle (usually 30°).
3. File from inside cutter to outside, using smooth, even strokes. File each cutter the same number of times.
4. Check and file depth gauges (rakers) with a flat file and depth gauge tool to maintain proper height difference.

Tip: Use a STIHL filing kit or guide for consistent results. Sharpen frequently, removing minimal metal each time.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
Engine will not start	No fuel, flooded, bad spark, choke setting	Check fuel; set choke correctly; pull plug to check for spark/flooding.
Engine starts then dies	Clogged fuel filter, dirty air filter, carb adjustment	Replace fuel filter; clean air filter; see dealer for carb adjustment.
Chain does not turn	Chain brake engaged, low oil, worn sprocket	Disengage brake; check oiler; inspect clutch/sprocket.
Chain throws oil excessively	Oil output too high	Adjust oiler (if adjustable) to lower setting.
Chain dulls quickly	Cutting dirty wood, hitting ground, improper filing	Avoid cutting into dirt; sharpen correctly; use proper filing angles.
Excessive vibration	Loose components, damaged anti-vibration mounts	Tighten all nuts/bolts; inspect anti-vibration elements.

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

Support: Visit www.stihlusa.com or contact STIHL customer service.