STIHL MS 211 C Manual

The STIHL MS 211 C is a lightweight, professional-grade gasoline chainsaw featuring STIHL's innovative Easy2Start™ system, anti-vibration technology, Ematic™ lubrication system, and a Quickstop® Super chain brake. It is designed for demanding cutting tasks such as felling, limbing, and bucking. Below are key sections for safety, features, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

Features at a Glance

Key components: Engine with Easy2Start™, anti-vibration system, Quickstop® Super chain brake, side-access chain tensioner, Ematic™ lubrication system, and STIHL Oilomatic® saw chain.

Feature	Description
Easy2Start™	Reduces pulling force required for starting by up to 30%
Quickstop® Super	Inertia-activated chain brake for enhanced operator safety
Ematic™ System	Directs bar and chain oil precisely to reduce consumption
Anti-Vibration	Reduces vibration for improved comfort during extended use
Side-Access Tensioner	Allows easy chain adjustment from the side of the saw
Decompression Valve	Eases starting by reducing cylinder pressure
Fuel & Oil Caps	Large, easy-to-open caps with retaining straps
Chain Catcher	Helps reduce risk if chain breaks or derails
Muffler	Designed for reduced emissions and noise
Handle	Ergonomic rear handle with integrated throttle trigger lockout

Safety Information

Read and understand all instructions before operation. Always wear appropriate PPE.

1. Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): Always wear chainsaw chaps or pants, safety glasses, hearing protection, gloves, and sturdy boots.
2. Work Area Safety: Keep bystanders and pets at least 15 meters away. Ensure secure footing.
3. Kickback Zone: Be aware of the upper quadrant of the guide bar tip. Avoid contact.
4. Fuel Safety: Refuel in a well-ventilated area with engine off and cool. Use STIHL MotoMix® or equivalent.
5. Chain Brake Test: Test function before each use by engaging brake with front hand guard.

WARNING! Improper use can cause serious or fatal injury. Never operate a chainsaw one-handed, above shoulder height, or on a ladder.

Assembly & First Use

Assemble guide bar and chain, fill fluids, and start the saw for the first time.

1. Assemble Bar & Chain: Place bar on studs, loop chain over sprocket and onto bar groove, adjust tension with side wheel, tighten bar nuts.
2. Fill Fluids: Use fresh, high-quality unleaded gasoline mixed with STIHL HP Ultra oil at 50:1 ratio (or MotoMix®). Fill chain oil reservoir with STIHL chain oil.
3. Initial Start: Place saw on clear, flat ground. Set master control lever to cold start position (choke). Pull starter handle slowly until resistance is felt, then pull briskly. After engine fires, move lever to run position.
4. Break-In: Allow engine to run at idle for 3-5 minutes. Avoid full throttle for the first few tanks of fuel.

CAUTION! Ensure chain brake is disengaged before starting. Keep hands away from the cutting area.

Specifications

• Engine Displacement: 35.2 cc
• Power Output: 1.8 kW / 2.4 hp
• Fuel Capacity: 0.47 L
• Oil Capacity: 0.26 L
• Guide Bar Lengths: 16" (40 cm) or 18" (45 cm) recommended
• Chain Pitch/Gauge: 3/8" PMM / 0.050" (1.3 mm)
• Weight (Powerhead): 4.6 kg (10.1 lbs)
• Sound Pressure Level: 106 dB(A)
• Vibration Level (Front/Rear): 4.2/2.5 m/s²
• Ignition System: STIHL Electronic Ignition (CDI)

Controls and Components

Master control lever (stop, run, start), throttle trigger with lockout, chain brake/hand guard, throttle latch, fuel and oil caps, decompression valve, spark plug cover.

Operation Controls: Master Control Lever combines stop switch, choke, and run positions. Throttle Trigger Lockout prevents accidental throttle engagement. Chain Brake is engaged manually (front hand guard) or automatically by inertia.

Maintenance Points: Air filter cover, spark plug, chain tensioner, clutch cover, muffler.

Operation Instructions

Starting, basic cutting techniques (felling, limbing, bucking), and stopping.

1. Starting (Cold): Engage chain brake. Set master control to cold start (choke). Press decompression valve. Pull starter handle until engine fires. Move lever to run position. Pull again to start.
2. Starting (Warm): Set lever to run position. Pull starter handle.
3. Basic Cutting: Use full throttle in the cut. Let the chain do the work; do not force it. For felling, plan escape path, use notch and back cut techniques.
4. Stopping: Release throttle, allow engine to idle briefly. Move master control lever to STOP position.

Tip: Always cut at full throttle to maintain proper chain speed and lubrication.

Maintenance Schedule

Supports long life with regular maintenance.

1. Before Each Use: Check chain tension and sharpness, test chain brake, check fuel and oil levels, inspect for loose parts.
2. Every 5 Hours: Clean air filter, check spark plug condition.
3. Every 20 Hours: Clean spark arrestor screen in muffler, clean cooling fins.
4. Every 100 Hours: Replace fuel filter, clean carburetor air passage.
5. As Needed: Sharpen chain, clean guide bar groove, replace worn sprocket.

WARNING! Always disconnect the spark plug boot before performing any maintenance.

Chain Sharpening & Tensioning

Proper chain maintenance is critical for performance and safety.

1. Tensioning: Loosen bar nuts. Turn side tensioner clockwise until chain fits snugly against bar but can be pulled around by hand. Retighten bar nuts.
2. Sharpening: Use correct round file size (typically 4.0 mm / 5/32"). File each cutter at the manufacturer's specified angle (usually 30°). Maintain equal length on all cutters. File depth gauges with a flat file and gauge.

CAUTION! A loose or dull chain increases kickback risk and reduces cutting efficiency.

Storage

Prepare saw for short-term or long-term (over 30 days) storage.

1. Short-Term: Clean exterior, check chain tension, store in a dry place.
2. Long-Term: Drain all fuel from tank and carburetor. Run engine until it stops. Remove chain, clean and oil it. Store chain and saw separately in a dry, secure location.

CAUTION! Old fuel can gum up the carburetor. Always use fresh fuel mix or drain the system.

Regulatory Information

Complies with relevant ANSI, EPA, and CARB standards for safety and emissions. This product incorporates elements of STIHL's patented technology. For genuine STIHL parts and service, contact an authorized STIHL servicing dealer. © STIHL Incorporated. All rights reserved. STIHL, the STIHL logo, and MotoMix are registered trademarks.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
Engine will not start	No spark, old fuel, flooded engine	Check spark plug; use fresh fuel mix; set master control to run and pull starter with throttle open to clear flood.
Engine starts then dies	Clogged fuel filter, dirty air filter, carburetor adjustment	Replace fuel filter; clean air filter; have carburetor adjusted by dealer.
Chain does not turn	Chain brake engaged, clutch worn, sprocket damaged	Disengage chain brake; inspect clutch and sprocket; replace if necessary.
Excessive vibration	Loose components, unbalanced chain, damaged anti-vibration mounts	Tighten all nuts/bolts; sharpen chain evenly; inspect mounts.
Poor cutting performance	Dull chain, incorrect filing, low chain oil	Sharpen chain properly; check filing angles; fill oil reservoir.

Service: For repairs beyond basic maintenance, contact an authorized STIHL dealer. Find a dealer at www.stihlusa.com or call 1-800-467-8445.