STIHL MS 230 Manual

The STIHL MS 230 is a lightweight, professional-grade gasoline-powered chainsaw designed for demanding cutting tasks. It features a powerful 2-stroke engine with STIHL anti-vibration system, Quickstop® inertia chain brake, Ematic™ lubrication system, and easy-to-use controls. 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, Ematic™ lubrication, and STIHL ElastoStart™.

Feature	Description
Engine Type	2-stroke single cylinder gasoline engine
Displacement	40.2 cc
Power Output	2.0 kW / 2.7 bhp
Fuel Tank Capacity	0.47 L
Oil Tank Capacity	0.26 L
Guide Bar Lengths	40 cm (16") or 45 cm (18")
Chain Pitch	3/8" PMM3
Weight (powerhead)	4.9 kg
Anti-Vibration System	STIHL standard
Chain Brake	Quickstop® inertia activated

Assembly & Preparation

Unpack and inspect contents. Assemble on clean, stable surface.

1. Attach guide bar and chain: Place bar on studs, fit chain with cutters facing forward, tighten bar nuts hand-tight.
2. Adjust chain tension: Use side-access tensioner screw; proper tension when chain snaps back after pulling.
3. Fill fuel tank: Use STIHL MotoMix® or mix 50:1 with STIHL HP Ultra oil and unleaded gasoline (min. 89 octane).
4. Fill chain oil tank: Use STIHL chain oil or approved alternative.

WARNING! Always wear protective equipment: helmet, gloves, eye protection, hearing protection, chainsaw chaps, and sturdy boots.

First-Time Operation

Perform pre-start checks before each use.

1. Check chain tension and lubrication: Chain should move freely when pulled.
2. Check fuel and oil levels: Fill if necessary.
3. Start the engine: Place on ground, engage chain brake, set master control lever to cold start position, pull starter handle until engine fires.
4. Warm up: Allow engine to idle for 30 seconds before cutting.

CAUTION! Never start the saw unless bar and chain are properly assembled and chain brake is engaged.

Specifications

• Engine: STIHL 2-MIX engine technology.
• Powerhead Weight: 4.9 kg (10.8 lbs).
• Sound Pressure Level: 104 dB(A).
• Vibration Levels: Left/Right 4.5 m/s², Front/Rear 2.5 m/s².
• Ignition System: STIHL electronic ignition with timing advance.
• Carburetor: Diaphragm carburetor with manual choke.
• Starter: STIHL ElastoStart™ with reversible starter rope.
• Chain Oiling: Ematic™ system with adjustable flow.
• Warranty: 12 months for private use.

Controls and Functions

Master Control Lever: Combines stop switch, choke, and run positions. Throttle Trigger: With interlock. Throttle Trigger Lockout: Must be depressed to operate throttle. Chain Brake Lever: Manual activation; inertia-activated via kickback. Decompression Valve: Reduces pulling force when starting.

Adjustments: Chain tension via side-access screw. Chain oil flow via adjusting screw (clockwise to increase). Carburetor idle speed (STIHL dealer only).

Chain & Bar Maintenance

Daily inspection and regular maintenance required.

1. Sharpen chain: Use STIHL filing kit (file diameter 4.0 mm) at 30° angle.
2. Clean bar groove: Remove debris with bar groove cleaner.
3. Check bar wear: Flip bar regularly for even wear.
4. Lubricate sprocket nose: Apply grease through fitting.

Tip: Always stop engine and engage chain brake before performing maintenance.

Engine Operation

Proper operation extends engine life.

1. Starting (cold): Engage chain brake, set master control to choke, pull starter until engine fires, move to run position, pull to start.
2. Starting (warm): Set to run position, pull starter.
3. Cutting technique: Use full throttle when cutting; let chain do the work.
4. Stopping: Release throttle, press master control to stop position.

WARNING! Never operate saw above shoulder height or with one hand. Maintain secure footing at all times.

Safety Features

Quickstop® Chain Brake: Stops chain within milliseconds if activated. Right Hand Guard: Protects from chain breakage. Chain Catcher: Prevents broken chain from striking operator. Throttle Trigger Lockout: Prevents accidental throttle operation. Anti-Vibration System: Reduces fatigue.

Care & Storage

Clean saw after each use. For storage over 30 days: Drain fuel tank and run engine until it stops. Remove chain and bar, clean and oil. Store in dry place with chain brake disengaged.

CAUTION! Fuel is highly flammable. Store in approved container away from heat sources.

Regulatory Information

Complies with ANSI B175.1 and EPA Phase II emissions standards. Contains parts that may be hot during/after operation. For EU market: CE marked. Noise emission: 104 dB(A). Vibration: See specifications. For support, contact authorized STIHL dealer or visit www.stihlusa.com.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
Engine won't start	No fuel, flooded, spark plug	Check fuel; set choke to run; clean/replace spark plug.
Engine runs poorly	Dirty air filter, fuel mix	Clean air filter; use fresh fuel mix; check fuel filter.
Chain doesn't turn	Chain brake engaged, clutch	Disengage chain brake; check clutch springs and drum.
Chain doesn't oil	Empty oil tank, clogged ports	Fill oil tank; clean oil ports; check oil pump.
Excessive vibration	Loose parts, damaged AV mounts	Tighten all fasteners; check anti-vibration elements.

Service: Major repairs to be performed by authorized STIHL dealer only.

Contact: STIHL Incorporated, 1-800-467-8445; www.stihlusa.com