stihl ms 250 manual download

The STIHL MS 250 is a professional-grade gasoline-powered chainsaw designed for demanding cutting tasks. It features a powerful engine, advanced anti-vibration system, QuickStop® inertia chain brake, STIHL Ematic™ lubrication system, and easy-start technology. Below are key sections for safety, features, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

Features at a Glance

Key components: Engine, guide bar, saw chain, master control lever, chain brake, fuel and oil caps, spark plug, air filter, and muffler.

Safety Information

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

1. Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): Wear safety glasses, hearing protection, gloves, chainsaw chaps/pants, and sturdy boots.
2. Work Area Safety: Clear area of obstacles, ensure secure footing, and keep bystanders away.
3. Kickback Zone: Avoid contact with the upper quadrant of the guide bar tip.
4. Fuel Safety: Refuel in well-ventilated area with engine off and cool. Use STIHL MotoMix® or equivalent.

WARNING! Improper use can cause serious injury or death. Always engage chain brake when carrying the saw.

Assembly & First Use

Unpack and inspect contents. Assemble guide bar and chain.

1. Attach Guide Bar & Chain: Place bar on studs, loop chain over sprocket and bar, adjust tension.
2. Fill Fuel Tank: Use fresh fuel mixture (50:1 gasoline to STIHL HP Ultra oil or MotoMix®).
3. Fill Oil Tank: Use STIHL chainsaw bar oil or equivalent.
4. Check Chain Brake: Ensure it engages and releases properly.

CAUTION! Ensure chain is properly tensioned – should snap back when pulled from bar.

Specifications

• Engine Displacement: 45.4 cc (2.77 cu in).
• Power Output: 2.6 kW (3.5 bhp).
• Weight (powerhead): 5.2 kg (11.5 lbs).
• Recommended Guide Bar Lengths: 16" (40 cm), 18" (45 cm).
• Chain Pitch/Gauge: 3/8" PMM / .050".
• Fuel/Oil Ratio: 50:1 (STIHL HP Ultra).
• Ignition System: Electronic, capacitor discharge.
• Sound Pressure Level: Approx. 106 dB(A).
• Vibration Levels (front/rear handle): Approx. 4.5/2.5 m/s².

Controls and Components

Master Control Lever: Combines stop switch (0), choke/fast idle (⏚), and run (I). Throttle Trigger & Lockout: Prevents accidental throttle engagement. Chain Brake Lever: Manual activation; inertia-activated. Decompression Valve: Button to press before starting. Side Access Chain Tensioner: Knob for adjusting chain tension.

Main Components: Fuel tank cap, Oil tank cap, Spark plug (Bosch WSR6F or equivalent), Air filter cover, Muffler, Rear handle with anti-vibration elements, Front handle.

Starting & Stopping the Engine

Cold Start Procedure:

1. Engage chain brake.
2. Press decompression valve (if equipped).
3. Set master control lever to choke (⏚).
4. Press throttle trigger lockout and throttle trigger, then release.
5. Place saw on ground, hold front handle with left hand, place right foot in rear handle.
6. Pull starter handle sharply until engine fires (1-2 pulls).
7. Move master control lever to run (I).
8. Pull starter handle again to start.
9. Blip throttle to disengage fast idle.

Stopping: Release throttle, move master control lever to stop (0).

Operation & Cutting Techniques

Always use proper stance and grip. Let the saw do the work.

1. Basic Cutting: Hold saw firmly, engage full throttle before contacting wood.
2. Felling: Plan escape path, use notch and backcut technique.
3. Limbing: Work from trunk outward, keep saw stable.
4. Bucking: Support log properly, avoid pinching the bar.
5. Kickback Prevention: Maintain secure grip, do not cut with bar tip.

Tip: Regularly check chain sharpness and tension for efficient cutting.

Maintenance Schedule

Daily/Before Use: Check chain tension, sharpness, brake function, fuel/oil levels. Clean air filter, check for loose parts.

Weekly/Every 10 Hours: Clean spark arrestor screen (if equipped), inspect guide bar for wear, clean cooling fins.

Monthly/Every 20 Hours: Replace spark plug, clean fuel filter, check all nuts/bolts for tightness.

Annually/Storage: Drain fuel system, clean entire saw, inspect/replace worn parts.

Chain Sharpening & Tensioning

Sharpening: Use round file matching chain pitch (typically 5/32" or 3/16"). Maintain correct filing angle (usually 30°). File all cutters to equal length.

Tensioning: Loosen bar nuts, turn tensioning screw until chain fits snug against bar underside. Tighten bar nuts. Chain should move freely by hand.

WARNING! Always wear gloves when handling chain. Ensure engine is off and cool.

Storage

Long-term Storage (over 30 days):

1. Drain fuel tank and run engine until it stops.
2. Remove chain, clean and oil it.
3. Clean entire saw, especially air filter and cooling fins.
4. Store in dry, dust-free place, away from children.

CAUTION! Never store with fuel in tank. Fuel can degrade and damage engine components.

Troubleshooting

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

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