stihl ms 460 magnum manual

The STIHL MS 460 Magnum is a professional-grade chainsaw featuring a powerful 76.5 cc engine, advanced anti-vibration system, decompression valve for easier starting, electronic ignition, automatic oiler with adjustable flow, quick-stop chain brake, side-access chain tensioner, 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 Guidelines 8. Maintenance Schedule 9. Chain & Bar Care 10. Storage Instructions 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: Engine, guide bar, chain, anti-vibration system, chain brake, oiler system, and controls.

Feature	Description
Engine Displacement	76.5 cc professional engine
Power Output	High torque for demanding cutting tasks
Anti-Vibration System	Reduces operator fatigue
Decompression Valve	Easier starting by reducing cylinder pressure
Electronic Ignition (M-Tronic)	Automatic engine adjustment for optimal performance
Automatic Oiler	Adjustable flow for varying conditions
Quick-Stop Chain Brake	Inertia-activated safety feature
Side-Access Chain Tensioner	Easy chain adjustment without tools
Ematic™ Lubrication System	Reduces oil consumption
Fuel Tank Capacity	Approx. 810 ml (27.4 fl. oz.)

Safety Information

Read and understand all safety warnings before operation.

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): Always wear chainsaw chaps, gloves, eye protection, hearing protection, and sturdy boots.
Clear Work Area: Ensure no bystanders, especially children or pets, are within 15 feet.
Fuel Safety: Refuel in well-ventilated area, away from ignition sources. Use STIHL MotoMix® or equivalent.
Kickback Awareness: Hold saw firmly with both hands; avoid contact with bar tip.
Chain Brake: Test before each use.

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

Assembly & Preparation

Unpack and inspect contents. Assemble guide bar and chain.

Attach Guide Bar: Place bar onto studs, align chain groove.
Install Chain: Ensure cutting teeth face forward on top of bar.
Tighten Bar Nut: Hand-tighten, then use tool to secure (do not overtighten).
Adjust Chain Tension: Use side-access wheel; chain should snap back when pulled from bar.
Fill Fuel & Oil: Use STIHL 50:1 2-stroke oil mix and STIHL chain oil.

CAUTION! Ensure chain is properly tensioned. Loose chain can derail; overtightened chain can damage bar.

Specifications

Engine: 76.5 cc single-cylinder 2-stroke.
Powerhead Weight: 7.3 kg (16.1 lbs) without bar/chain.
Fuel/Oil Mix: 50:1 (STIHL 2-stroke oil).
Ignition: Electronic, M-Tronic engine management.
Bar Lengths: 20" to 36" recommended.
Chain Pitch: 3/8" or .404" (depending on configuration).
Sound Power Level: 114 dB(A).
Vibration Levels: Left/Right 4.5 m/s², Front/Rear 2.5 m/s².
Warranty: Limited commercial warranty (see dealer).

Controls and Components

Master Control Lever: Combines stop switch, choke, and throttle lock. Throttle Trigger: Controls engine speed. Throttle Lockout: Must be depressed to engage throttle. Chain Brake Lever: Front hand guard activates brake. Decompression Valve: Button to reduce starting effort. Oil Pump Adjuster: Wheel to increase/decrease oil flow.

Maintenance Points: Air filter, spark plug, fuel filter, chain catcher, muffler.

Starting & Stopping

Cold Start Procedure:

Engage chain brake.
Set Master Control to choke position (full down).
Press decompression valve (if equipped).
Place saw on firm ground, hold front handle with left foot.
Pull starter rope briskly until engine fires.
Move Master Control to half-throttle position.
Pull again to start; allow to idle briefly.
Squeeze throttle to disengage fast-idle.

Stopping: Release throttle, allow idle, push Master Control to STOP.

Operation Guidelines

Proper Cutting Techniques:

Plan cut and escape path.
Use full throttle before engaging wood.
Let saw do the work; avoid forcing.
For felling: Use notch and backcut method.
For bucking: Support logs; avoid cutting into ground.
For limbing: Work from trunk outward.

Tip: Keep chain sharp; dull chain increases effort and risk.

Maintenance Schedule

Daily/Before Use: Check chain tension, sharpness, brake function, fuel/oil levels. Weekly: Clean air filter, check spark plug, inspect bar for wear. Monthly: Clean cooling fins, check fuel filter, inspect anti-vibration elements. Annually: Have dealer check carburetor, compression, ignition timing.

WARNING! Always disconnect spark plug before performing maintenance.

Chain & Bar Care

Sharpening: Use round file matching chain pitch (typically 5.5 mm). Maintain 30° cutting angle. Depth gauges should be filed to 0.65 mm. Bar Maintenance: Clean groove weekly; flip bar monthly for even wear. Lubrication: Always use STIHL chain oil; adjust oiler for conditions.

Storage Instructions

Long-term Storage (over 30 days):

Drain fuel tank and run carburetor dry.
Remove chain, clean and soak in oil.
Clean entire saw, especially cooling fins.
Store in dry, cool place, covered.

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

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
Engine won't start	No spark/flooded/old fuel	Check spark plug; use fresh fuel; follow cold start procedure.
Engine runs poorly	Dirty air filter/clogged fuel filter	Clean/replace air filter; replace fuel filter.
Chain doesn't turn	Brake engaged/low oil/clutch	Disengage brake; check oiler; inspect clutch drum.
Excessive vibration	Loose components/worn AV mounts	Tighten bolts; inspect anti-vibration elements.
Chain throws oil	Oiler set too high	Adjust oil pump to lower setting.
Overheating	Dull chain/lean mixture	Sharpen chain; have dealer check carburetor adjustment.

Service: For repairs, contact authorized STIHL dealer. Use only STIHL replacement parts.

Support: 1-800-467-8445; www.stihlusa.com