Stihl MS210 Chainsaw Manual

The Stihl MS210 is a lightweight, professional-grade chainsaw designed for demanding cutting tasks. It features a powerful engine with advanced anti-vibration system, quick-stop chain brake, easy-start technology, tool-free chain tensioning, and an ergonomic design for extended use. Below are key sections for safety, features, assembly, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

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

Features at a Glance

Key components: Engine with decompression valve, anti-vibration system, Quickstop chain brake, side-access chain tensioner, ergonomic handle, and fuel/oil caps.

Feature	Description
Engine Power	High-performance 2-stroke engine with decompression valve for easy starting
Anti-Vibration System	Reduces operator fatigue during extended use
Quickstop Chain Brake	Stops chain rotation in milliseconds if kickback occurs
Side-Access Chain Tensioner	Tool-free adjustment of chain tension
Ergonomic Handle	Comfort-grip design with optimized weight distribution
Fuel/Oil Caps	Large openings for easy refueling and chain lubrication
Chain Catcher	Prevents broken chain from striking operator
Throttle Interlock	Prevents accidental throttle activation
Air Filtration System	Pre-cleaning system for extended filter life
Spark Arrestor Muffler	Reduces fire risk in dry conditions

Safety Information

Read all instructions before operation. Wear proper protective equipment.

Personal Protective Equipment: Wear safety glasses, hearing protection, gloves, chainsaw chaps, and steel-toed boots.
Work Area Safety: Clear area of bystanders, especially children. Ensure secure footing.
Kickback Prevention: Hold saw firmly with both hands. Avoid contact with bar tip.
Fuel Safety: Refuel in well-ventilated area with engine off and cool. Use proper fuel mix.

WARNING! Chainsaws are dangerous tools. Failure to follow safety instructions can result in serious injury or death.

Assembly & Preparation

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

Attach guide bar: Place bar on mounting studs, align chain with sprocket.
Install chain: Position chain on bar with cutting teeth facing forward.
Adjust chain tension: Use side tensioner to achieve proper tension (check manual).
Fill fluids: Add proper fuel/oil mix to fuel tank and bar/chain oil to oil tank.

CAUTION! Ensure chain is properly tensioned before operation. Loose chain can derail.

Specifications

Engine Displacement: 35.2 cc
Power Output: 1.8 kW / 2.4 hp
Fuel Capacity: 0.33 L
Oil Capacity: 0.20 L
Guide Bar Lengths: 14" to 16" (35-40 cm)
Chain Pitch: 3/8" PMM
Weight (without bar/chain): 4.2 kg
Sound Power Level: 112 dB(A)
Vibration Levels: Front handle: 3.5 m/s², Rear handle: 4.5 m/s²
Fuel/Oil Mix: 50:1 (STIHL HP Ultra oil recommended)

Controls and Components

Main controls: Front handle with throttle trigger, rear handle, master control lever, chain brake lever, choke control, decompression valve.

Master Control Lever: Combines choke, throttle lock, and stop functions.

Chain Brake: Manual activation via hand guard; inertial activation during kickback. Throttle Interlock: Must be depressed before throttle trigger works. Decompression Valve: Reduces cylinder pressure for easier starting. Chain Tensioner: Located on side for tool-free adjustment.

Starting & Operation

Cold Start Procedure:

Place saw on firm ground. Engage chain brake.
Set master control to choke position (full down).
Press decompression valve (if equipped).
Pull starter rope sharply until engine fires.
Move master control to half-throttle position.
Pull starter rope again until engine starts.
Briefly blip throttle to disengage choke.

Cutting Techniques: Use lower quadrant of bar for cutting. Let saw do the work. Avoid cutting with bar tip.

Maintenance Schedule

Daily: Check chain tension, sharpness, and lubrication. Clean air filter. Weekly: Clean cooling fins, check spark plug. Monthly: Clean fuel filter, check fuel lines. Annually: Replace spark plug, clean exhaust system.

Air Filter: Clean with compressed air or soapy water. Replace if damaged.

Spark Plug: Gap: 0.5 mm. Replace annually or if fouled.

Chain & Bar Care

Chain Sharpening: Use round file matching chain pitch. Maintain correct filing angle (typically 30°). Bar Maintenance: Clean bar groove regularly. Flip bar monthly for even wear. Lubrication: Always use proper bar/chain oil. Check oil flow before cutting.

Chain Tension: Proper tension: Chain should snap back when pulled from bar. Adjust when chain sags.

Storage Guidelines

Long-term Storage:

Drain fuel tank and run engine until it stops.
Remove chain, clean and oil it.
Clean entire saw, especially air intake and cooling fins.
Store in dry place, protected from dust and moisture.

CAUTION! Never store with fuel in tank for more than 30 days. Fuel deteriorates and can damage engine.

Warranty Information

STIHL Limited Warranty: 1 year commercial use, 2 years private use from date of purchase. Warranty covers defects in materials and workmanship. Not covered: Normal wear, misuse, improper maintenance, unauthorized repairs. For warranty service, contact authorized STIHL dealer with proof of purchase. For support, visit www.stihlusa.com or contact 1-800-467-8445.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
Engine won't start	Fuel issues, spark plug, flooded	Check fuel mix, spark plug gap, use decompression valve if flooded.
Engine starts then dies	Fuel filter, carburetor, air filter	Clean/replace fuel filter, check carburetor adjustment, clean air filter.
Poor cutting performance	Dull chain, improper tension	Sharpen chain, adjust tension, check bar groove.
Chain won't stop	Chain brake malfunction	Check brake band, clean mechanism, replace if worn.
Excessive vibration	Loose components, damaged AV mounts	Tighten all fasteners, check anti-vibration mounts.
Chain throws oil	Over-oiling, wrong oil viscosity	Adjust oil flow, use proper bar/chain oil.
Chain comes off bar	Loose tension, worn sprocket	Adjust tension, check drive sprocket wear.

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

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