Stihl Moisture Meter Instruction Manual

The Stihl Moisture Meter is a precision handheld tool designed for measuring wood moisture content in firewood, lumber, and other wooden materials. It features a digital display, dual-pin electrode system for deep penetration, species-specific calibration, auto power-off, and data hold function. Below are key sections for safety, features, operation, calibration, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

1. Features at a Glance 2. Safety Instructions 3. First-Time Setup 4. Specifications 5. Controls and Display 6. Measuring Procedure 7. Calibration & Settings 8. Maintenance & Storage 9. Regulatory Information 10. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: Digital LCD display, Dual-pin electrode probe, Mode selection button, Hold button, Battery compartment, Protective cap.

Feature	Description
Digital LCD display	Shows moisture percentage (0-99%) and battery status
Dual-pin electrode probe	Stainless steel pins for deep wood penetration
Mode selection button	Cycles through wood species calibration groups
Hold button	Freezes current reading on display
Battery compartment	Holds 2x AAA batteries (included)
Protective cap	Covers pins when not in use
Auto power-off	Conserves battery after 5 minutes of inactivity
Data hold function	Locks measurement for recording
Species calibration	Pre-programmed for common wood types
Low battery indicator	Displays when batteries need replacement

Safety Instructions

Read all instructions before use. Keep away from children.

Electrical safety: Do not use on live electrical components or wet surfaces.
Pin safety: Keep fingers away from electrode pins; use protective cap when storing.
Battery safety: Use only specified batteries; remove if not used for extended periods.
Environmental: Use in dry conditions; avoid extreme temperatures and direct sunlight.

WARNING! Electrode pins are sharp; handle with care to avoid injury. Do not immerse in water.

First-Time Setup

Prepare meter for first use.

Install batteries: Open compartment, insert 2x AAA batteries observing polarity.
Remove protective cap from electrode pins.
Power on: Press any button to activate display.
Select wood species: Press MODE button to match wood type being measured.
Test measurement: Insert pins into known dry wood to verify operation.

CAUTION! Ensure pins are clean and undamaged before first use.

Specifications

Measurement Range: 0% to 99% moisture content.
Accuracy: ±1% for 5-30% range; ±2% for 30-99% range.
Calibration Groups: 4 wood species groups (Softwood, Hardwood, Tropical, Firewood).
Display: 3-digit LCD with backlight (auto-off).
Electrode Pins: 2 stainless steel pins, 10mm penetration depth.
Power Source: 2x AAA batteries (1.5V each).
Battery Life: Approximately 100 hours continuous use.
Operating Temperature: 32°F to 122°F (0°C to 50°C).
Dimensions: 5.9 x 2.4 x 0.8 inches (150 x 60 x 20 mm).
Weight: 3.5 oz (100 g) including batteries.

Controls and Display

Front panel: LCD display, MODE button, HOLD button. Display symbols: Moisture percentage, Wood group icon, Battery indicator, Hold indicator.

Button Functions: MODE - cycles through wood calibration groups (A1, A2, B1, B2). HOLD - freezes current reading (H icon appears). Any button - wakes from sleep mode.

Wood Groups: A1 (Softwoods: Pine, Spruce, Fir), A2 (Hardwoods: Oak, Maple, Ash), B1 (Tropical: Teak, Mahogany), B2 (Firewood: Mixed species). Display: Shows 0.0 to 99.9% moisture; "---" if out of range or error.

Measuring Procedure

For accurate wood moisture measurement.

Select wood group: Press MODE to match wood species.
Prepare wood: Ensure surface is clean, unpainted, unvarnished.
Insert pins: Push firmly into wood grain (not end grain) to full depth.
Read display: Wait 3-5 seconds for stable reading.
Record: Press HOLD to freeze value if needed.
Multiple readings: Take measurements at different locations for average.
Remove pins: Clean with dry cloth between measurements.

Tip: For lumber, measure at least 12 inches from ends. For firewood, split log and measure freshly exposed surface.

Calibration & Settings

Calibration check and adjustment procedures.

Factory calibration: Pre-calibrated; no user calibration required for standard use.
Wood group selection: Critical for accuracy; consult species chart in manual.
Temperature compensation: Automatic for 32-122°F range.
Reset: Remove batteries for 30 seconds to reset to factory defaults.

Reference Values: Construction lumber: 12-15%. Indoor furniture: 6-9%. Firewood (ready to burn): <20%. Green wood: 30-50%+.

Maintenance & Storage

Clean after each use. Store in protective case.

Cleaning pins: Wipe with dry cloth; use isopropyl alcohol for resin buildup.
Battery replacement: Replace when low battery icon appears.
Storage: Replace protective cap; store in dry place at room temperature.
Display: Clean with soft, dry cloth; no chemicals.

CAUTION! Never bend pins; they are precision components. Do not store with batteries if unused for months.

Regulatory Information

FCC Part 15: Class B digital device; complies with interference limits. CE marked for European compliance. Copyright © 2025 Stihl; all rights reserved. For support, visit www.stihl.com or contact 1-800-467-8445. Disposal: Follow local regulations for electronic waste and batteries.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
No display	Dead batteries	Replace with fresh AAA batteries.
Inconsistent readings	Wrong wood group	Select correct wood calibration group.
Display shows "---"	Out of range/pin contact	Ensure pins fully inserted in wood; check for debris.
Readings too high/low	Surface moisture/pin depth	Measure split surface; ensure pins at full depth.
Battery drains quickly	Old batteries/auto-off failure	Use quality batteries; ensure auto-off functioning.
Pins bent/damaged	Physical abuse	Replace pins through authorized service.

Service: 1-800-467-8445; www.stihl.com

Warranty: 2-year limited warranty from date of purchase.