Stihl MS192C Manual

The Stihl MS192C is a lightweight, professional-grade chainsaw featuring a 30.1cc engine, STIHL Quickstop® inertia chain brake, Ematic™ lubrication system, side-access chain tensioner, anti-vibration system, and tool-less fuel and oil caps. Designed for pruning, limbing, and small to medium tree felling. Below are key sections for safety, features, assembly, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

Features at a Glance

Key components: 30.1cc STIHL engine, guide bar, saw chain, Ematic™ lubrication system, Quickstop® inertia chain brake, side-access chain tensioner, anti-vibration handles.

Feature	Description
Engine	30.1cc, 2-stroke, single-cylinder
Guide Bar Length	Typically 12" to 16" (varies by model)
Chain Pitch/Gauge	3/8" PMM / .043" (1.1mm)
Fuel Tank Capacity	Approx. 8.5 fl oz (250ml)
Oil Tank Capacity	Approx. 6.8 fl oz (200ml)
Weight (powerhead)	Approx. 6.8 lbs (3.1 kg)
Ignition System	Electronic, capacitor discharge
Chain Brake	STIHL Quickstop® inertia activated
Chain Lubrication	Ematic™ system for reduced oil consumption
Anti-Vibration	STIHL anti-vibration system

Assembly & Preparation

Unpack and inspect all components. Assemble on clean, stable surface.

1. Attach guide bar and chain: Place bar on studs, loop chain over sprocket, align with bar groove, tighten nuts.
2. Fill with fuel: Use STIHL MotoMix® or 50:1 gasoline/oil mixture. Do not use automotive oil.
3. Fill chain oil: Use STIHL chain oil or equivalent. Check oiler function.
4. Check chain tension: Chain should snap back when pulled from bar; adjust via side tensioner.

WARNING! Always wear protective gear: helmet, eye protection, hearing protection, gloves, chainsaw chaps, and steel-toe boots.

First-Time Operation

Start chainsaw on ground, ensure clear area.

1. Activate chain brake: Push handle forward until click.
2. Set master control lever: Move to cold start position (choke).
3. Prime fuel pump: Press 3-5 times (if equipped).
4. Pull starter handle: Until engine fires, then move lever to warm start, pull to start.
5. Release chain brake: Pull handle toward rear handle.
6. Test throttle and chain rotation: Ensure chain moves freely when throttle pressed.

CAUTION! Never drop-start or start above waist height. Keep bystanders at least 15 feet away.

Specifications

• Displacement: 30.1 cc (1.84 cu in)
• Power Output: 1.3 kW (1.8 hp)
• Max Engine Speed: 13,500 rpm
• Idle Speed: 2,800 rpm
• Fuel/Oil Ratio: 50:1 (STIHL MotoMix® recommended)
• Sound Pressure Level: Approx. 104 dB(A)
• Sound Power Level: Approx. 114 dB(A)
• Vibration (front/rear): Approx. 4.5/2.5 m/s²
• Chain Oil: STIHL chain oil or biodegradable equivalent

Controls and Functions

Master Control Lever: Combines choke, start, run, stop positions. Throttle Trigger: Controls engine speed. Throttle Trigger Interlock: Must be depressed to engage throttle. Chain Brake Handle: Activates chain brake when pushed forward. Decompression Valve: Reduces pulling force for starting (if equipped). Side-Access Chain Tensioner: Adjusts chain tension without tools.

Safety: Quickstop® inertia chain brake stops chain within milliseconds if kickback occurs. Right-hand guard protects from broken chain. Chain catcher prevents chain from striking operator.

Chain & Bar Setup

Proper chain tension is critical for safety and performance.

1. Loosen bar nuts: Use combination wrench.
2. Adjust tension: Turn side tensioner clockwise to tighten, counterclockwise to loosen.
3. Lift bar tip: Ensure chain seats properly in bar groove.
4. Retighten nuts: Hold bar tip up, tighten nuts securely.
5. Check tension: Chain should snap back when pulled; adjust if sagging.

Tip: Always check tension when chain is cold. Chain stretches when warm; re-tension after initial use.

Cutting Techniques

Use proper stance and grip for control.

1. Felling: Notch cut (1/3 tree diameter), back cut (2" above notch hinge), use wedges if needed.
2. Limbing: Cut branches from bottom to top, use bar as lever.
3. Pruning: Cut small branches with guide bar bottom; larger branches with undercut then top cut.
4. Bucking: Support log off ground, cut from top down, avoid pinching bar.

WARNING! Beware of kickback. Keep nose of bar out of cut. Never cut above shoulder height. Watch for falling limbs.

Safety Features

Quickstop® Inertia Chain Brake: Automatically activates on kickback or manually via handle. Throttle Trigger Interlock: Prevents accidental throttle engagement. Chain Catcher: Reduces risk if chain breaks. Right-Hand Guard: Protects hand from chain. Anti-Vibration System: Reduces fatigue. Ematic™ Lubrication: Ensures consistent oiling, reduces consumption.

Maintenance & Storage

Clean after each use. Check chain sharpness, tension, and lubrication.

1. Air Filter: Clean weekly; replace if damaged.
2. Spark Plug: Check gap (0.020"); replace annually.
3. Chain Sharpening: File at 30° angle, maintain depth gauges.
4. Bar Maintenance: Clean groove, flip weekly for even wear.
5. Storage: Empty fuel tank, run dry, clean exterior, store in dry place.

CAUTION! Use only STIHL replacement parts. Never use automotive oil in fuel mixture.

Regulatory Information

EPA/CARB compliant. Meets ANSI B175.1 safety standards. Contains parts from global suppliers. STIHL and Quickstop are registered trademarks of Andreas Stihl AG & Co. KG. For genuine parts and service, visit authorized STIHL dealers. For support, contact STIHL USA at 1-800-467-8445 or visit www.stihlusa.com.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
Engine won't start	Fuel, spark, air	Check fuel mix, spark plug, air filter; prime carburetor.
Engine runs poorly	Clogged filter, carb adjustment	Clean air/fuel filters; adjust carburetor (H/L screws).
Chain doesn't turn	Brake engaged, clutch, sprocket	Release chain brake; check clutch drum/sprocket for wear.
Chain throws oil	Oil flow too high	Adjust oiler screw (counterclockwise to reduce).
Chain dulls quickly	Dirty wood, improper filing	Avoid cutting dirt/sand; sharpen at correct angle.
Excessive vibration	Loose parts, unbalanced chain	Tighten all nuts/bolts; balance chain by sharpening evenly.

Service: For repairs, see authorized STIHL dealer. Do not attempt major engine repairs.

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