stihl ms 360 pro manual

The STIHL MS 360 Pro is a professional-grade chainsaw designed for demanding forestry, arboriculture, and construction work. It features a powerful engine with advanced anti-vibration system, quick-stop chain brake, decompression valve for easier starting, and STIHL's Ematic lubrication system. Below are key sections for safety, features, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

1. Features at a Glance 2. Safety Information 3. Assembly & Preparation 4. Specifications 5. Controls and Components 6. Starting & Stopping 7. Operation & Cutting Techniques 8. Maintenance Schedule 9. Chain & Bar Care 10. Storage 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: Professional-grade engine, anti-vibration system, QuickStop chain brake, decompression valve, side-access chain tensioner, Ematic lubrication system, and advanced air filtration.

Feature	Description
Engine Displacement	59.0 cc professional engine
Power Output	High torque for demanding cuts
Anti-Vibration System	Reduces operator fatigue
QuickStop Chain Brake	Inertia-activated for enhanced safety
Decompression Valve	Reduces pulling resistance for easier starting
Ematic Lubrication	Directs oil precisely to the chain for reduced consumption
Side-Access Chain Tensioner	Allows easy chain adjustment without tools
Air Filtration System	Pre-cleaner and HD2 filter for extended service intervals
Fuel & Oil Caps	Large openings for easy filling
Handle Design	Ergonomic rear handle and anti-slip front handle

Safety Information

Read and understand all safety warnings before operation. Always wear appropriate PPE.

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): Wear chainsaw chaps, safety helmet with face shield and hearing protection, gloves, and steel-toe boots.
Work Area Safety: Clear area of bystanders, especially children. Ensure secure footing.
Chain Brake Check: Verify QuickStop chain brake functions before each use.
Kickback Awareness: Be aware of kickback zone; use reduced-kickback chain and guide bar.

WARNING! Improper use can cause serious injury or death. Never operate a chainsaw when fatigued or under the influence.

Assembly & Preparation

Unpack and inspect contents. Assemble guide bar and chain.

Attach Guide Bar & Chain: Place bar on studs, loop chain over sprocket and bar nose, adjust tension with side knob.
Fill Fluids: Use STIHL MotoMix or 50:1 fuel/oil mixture. Fill chain oil reservoir with STIHL chain oil.
Check Controls: Ensure throttle trigger, throttle lockout, and master control lever operate smoothly.
Perform Pre-Start Check: Verify chain brake is disengaged, chain moves freely, and all fasteners are tight.

CAUTION! Use only STIHL-approved fuels, oils, and replacement parts.

Specifications

Engine Displacement: 59.0 cc
Powerhead Weight: 6.2 kg (without cutting equipment)
Fuel Capacity: 550 ml
Oil Capacity: 260 ml
Recommended Bar Lengths: 40 cm (16"), 45 cm (18"), 50 cm (20")
Chain Pitch/Gauge: 3/8" P / .050" (1.3 mm) or .063" (1.6 mm)
Ignition System: STIHL Electronic Ignition (CDI)
Sound Power Level: 114 dB(A)
Vibration Levels: Front Handle: 4.5 m/s², Rear Handle: 3.5 m/s²

Controls and Components

Master Control Lever: Combines stop switch, choke, and fast-idle for starting. Throttle Trigger Lockout: Must be depressed to engage throttle. Chain Brake Lever: Manual activation; inertia-activated for kickback. Decompression Valve: Button to reduce cylinder pressure. Side-Access Chain Tensioner: Knob for tool-free adjustment.

Main Components: Fuel Tank, Oil Tank, Air Filter Cover, Spark Plug, Muffler, Handle, Guide Bar, Chain, Chain Sprocket.

Starting & Stopping

Cold Start:

Set chain brake to ON (engaged).
Press decompression valve (if equipped).
Move master control lever to choke position.
Pull starter handle until engine fires (1-2 pulls).
Move master control lever to half-throttle position.
Pull starter handle until engine starts.
Blip throttle to disengage fast-idle.
Disengage chain brake before cutting.

Warm Start: Master control lever in half-throttle position. No choke.

Stopping: Release throttle, allow engine to idle briefly, move master control lever to STOP.

Operation & Cutting Techniques

Maintain secure grip with both hands. Keep saw body close to yours for control.

Felling: Use proper notch and backcut techniques. Plan escape path.
Limbing: Work from trunk outward. Keep bar tip clear.
Bucking: Support log properly. Use top of bar for cutting.
Kickback Prevention: Do not cut with bar nose. Keep chain sharp and tensioned.

Tip: Let the chain do the work; avoid forcing the saw.

Maintenance Schedule

Interval	Task
Daily / Before Use	Check chain tension, sharpness, and lubrication. Check all fasteners. Clean air filter if needed.
Weekly / 10 Hours	Clean spark arrestor screen. Check fuel filter. Clean cooling fins.
Monthly / 50 Hours	Replace spark plug. Clean carburetor air intake. Check anti-vibration elements.
Annually / 100 Hours	Replace fuel filter. Clean/replace air filter. Check clutch and sprocket.

WARNING! Always disconnect spark plug boot before performing maintenance.

Chain & Bar Care

Sharpening: Use correct round file size. Maintain correct filing angle (typically 30°). Maintain depth gauges (rakers). Cleaning: Clean bar groove regularly. Flip bar weekly for even wear. Lubrication: Ensure oiler is working. Use clean, approved chain oil.

Storage

Long-term Storage (over 30 days):

Drain fuel tank and run engine until it stops to clear carburetor.
Remove chain, clean, and soak in oil.
Clean entire saw, especially cooling fins and air filter.
Store in a dry, secure place, protected from dust.

CAUTION! Never store with fuel in the tank for extended periods.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
Engine will not start	No spark, flooded, stale fuel	Check spark plug; use fresh fuel; follow correct starting procedure.
Engine runs poorly/dies	Clogged air filter, fuel filter, or spark arrestor	Clean/replace air filter; replace fuel filter; clean spark arrestor screen.
Chain does not turn	Clutch worn, brake engaged, sprocket worn	Disengage chain brake; inspect clutch and sprocket; replace if worn.
Excessive vibration	Loose components, damaged AV mounts	Tighten all fasteners; inspect anti-vibration mounts.
Chain throws oil	Over-oiling, wrong oil viscosity	Check oiler setting; use correct STIHL chain oil.
Chain dulls quickly	Cutting dirty wood, improper filing, loose chain	Sharpen correctly; maintain proper tension; avoid ground contact.

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