STIHL Manuals PDF

STIHL is a leading manufacturer of outdoor power equipment including chainsaws, trimmers, blowers, and brushcutters. This resource provides access to official STIHL user manuals, service guides, and parts diagrams in PDF format for various models. Below are key sections for safety, equipment overview, manual access, troubleshooting, and support.

STIHL Equipment Overview

STIHL produces professional and residential outdoor power equipment known for durability and performance.

Product Category	Common Models
Chainsaws	MS 170, MS 250, MS 361, MS 661
String Trimmers / Brushcutters	FS 38, FS 56, FS 250, FS 460
Blowers & Vacuums	BG 50, BG 86, SH 86
Hedge Trimmers	HS 45, HS 82, HS 86
Cut-off Machines	TS 410, TS 420, TS 800
Power Tools	BT 121, RM 3, RE 108

Manual Types & Categories

STIHL provides different manual types for users and technicians.

1. Owner's Manual (Instruction Manual): Basic operation, safety, daily maintenance.
2. Service Manual: Detailed repair procedures, technical specifications, diagnostics.
3. Parts Catalog: Exploded diagrams and part numbers for ordering.
4. Safety Manual: Comprehensive safety warnings and procedures.
5. Quick Start Guide: Simplified setup and initial operation.

NOTE: Always use the manual specific to your model and serial number.

How to Find Your Manual

Locate your model number and download the correct PDF.

1. Find model number: Typically on a label on the product housing (e.g., "MS 250").
2. Visit STIHL website: Navigate to support or manuals section.
3. Enter model number: Use search function to locate manual.
4. Select manual type: Choose owner's, service, or parts manual.
5. Download PDF: Save file for offline access.

CAUTION! Using incorrect manual may lead to unsafe operation or damage.

Safety Instructions

• Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): Always wear safety glasses, hearing protection, gloves, chainsaw chaps (for chainsaws), and sturdy footwear.
• Pre-Operation Inspection: Check for loose parts, fuel leaks, chain tension (chainsaws), and damaged components.
• Safe Operation Zone: Maintain clear work area; keep bystanders and pets at safe distance.
• Fuel Safety: Use correct fuel/oil mix; refuel in well-ventilated area with engine off and cool.
• Kickback Awareness (Chainsaws): Understand kickback zone; use reduced-kickback chain and guide bar.
• Emergency Procedures: Know how to quickly stop engine and respond to accidents.

Operating Instructions

Proper starting, operation, and shutdown procedures.

Starting Procedure: Place on firm ground, engage chain brake (chainsaws), set master control lever to cold start position, pull starter rope until engine fires, then move lever to run position.

Operation: Maintain firm grip, use correct body position, let tool do the work, avoid overreaching.

Shutdown: Release throttle, allow engine to idle briefly, move master control to STOP position.

Transport & Storage: Empty fuel tank or add stabilizer; clean tool; store in dry, secure location.

Maintenance & Service

Regular maintenance ensures performance and longevity.

1. Daily: Clean air filter, check chain tension and sharpness (chainsaws), inspect for damage.
2. Weekly/Monthly: Clean cooling fins, check spark plug, lubricate guide bar (chainsaws), clean fuel filter.
3. Seasonal: Replace spark plug, clean carburetor, check fuel lines, inspect anti-vibration elements.
4. Professional Service: For major repairs, carburetor adjustment, or engine overhaul, consult authorized STIHL dealer.

Tip: Use only genuine STIHL replacement parts and lubricants.

Parts Diagrams & Lists

Parts catalogs show exploded views with numbered components.

1. Access parts catalog PDF for your model.
2. Identify needed part using diagram and number.
3. Note part number and description.
4. Order through authorized STIHL dealer with part number.
5. Refer to service manual for installation instructions.

WARNING! Installation of non-genuine parts may void warranty and compromise safety.

Troubleshooting Guides

Problem	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
Engine won't start	Empty fuel tank, flooded engine, clogged air filter, faulty spark plug	Check fuel; wait if flooded; clean/replace air filter; check/replace spark plug.
Engine runs poorly	Dirty fuel filter, incorrect fuel mix, clogged spark arrestor	Replace fuel filter; use proper mix; clean spark arrestor screen.
Chain won't turn (chainsaw)	Chain brake engaged, clogged sprocket, damaged clutch	Disengage chain brake; clean sprocket area; inspect clutch.
Excessive vibration	Loose components, worn anti-vibration elements, unbalanced cutting attachment	Tighten all fasteners; replace anti-vibration parts; balance attachment.
Overheating	Clogged cooling fins, lean fuel mixture, improper lubrication	Clean cooling fins; adjust carburetor; ensure proper oil flow.

Warranty Information

STIHL offers limited warranties for residential and professional use.

• Residential Warranty: Typically 1 year for powerheads, 90 days for accessories.
• Professional Warranty: Varies by product; may include extended options.
• Requirements: Warranty valid only with proof of purchase from authorized dealer and proper maintenance.
• Exclusions: Normal wear, misuse, neglect, improper fuel, non-genuine parts.
• Claims: Contact authorized STIHL dealer for warranty service.

Regulatory Compliance

STIHL equipment meets applicable safety and environmental standards.

EPA & CARB: Engines certified to meet emission standards. ANSI/OPEI: Compliance with safety standards for outdoor power equipment. EC Directive: CE marking for European market. Noise Regulations: Meets applicable sound power level requirements. Always operate in accordance with local regulations regarding noise, emissions, and safety.

Support & Contact

For technical support, manuals, and dealer locations.

1. STIHL Website: www.stihlusa.com (USA) or your country's STIHL site.
2. Manual Downloads: Available in support/documentation sections.
3. Dealer Locator: Use website to find nearest authorized STIHL dealer.
4. Customer Service: Contact via website form or phone: 1-800-467-8445 (USA).
5. Training Resources: Some regions offer operator training courses.

Reset: Refer to manual for reset procedures after maintenance.

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