STIHL MS210 Manual

The STIHL MS210 is a lightweight, professional-grade chainsaw designed for occasional users and homeowners. It features a powerful 2-stroke engine with STIHL anti-vibration system, Quickstop® inertia chain brake, Ematic™ lubrication system, and easy-start technology. 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 & Stopping 7. Operating Instructions 8. Maintenance Schedule 9. Chain & Bar Care 10. Storage 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: Engine with decompression valve, anti-vibration handles, side-access chain tensioner, transparent fuel tank, and tool-free air filter cover.

FeatureDescription
Engine Power2.0 kW (2.7 bhp) displacement
Guide Bar LengthTypically 14" to 16" (35-40 cm)
Chain BrakeQuickstop® inertia-activated
Anti-VibrationSTIHL advanced damping system
LubricationEmatic™ automatic oiling with manual override
StartingEasy-start system with decompression valve
WeightApprox. 4.6 kg (10.1 lbs) without bar & chain
Fuel Tank0.33 L (11.2 fl oz) capacity
Oil Tank0.20 L (6.8 fl oz) capacity
Chain Pitch3/8" PM3 (Picco Micro 3)

Safety Information

Read all instructions before use. Wear protective gear: helmet, goggles, gloves, chainsaw chaps, and steel-toe boots.

  1. Keep bystanders at least 15 feet away.
  2. Never operate above shoulder height.
  3. Always engage chain brake when carrying or not cutting.
  4. Use proper grip: left hand on front handle, right on rear.
  5. Ensure chain is sharp and properly tensioned.

WARNING! Risk of kickback! Never cut with the tip of the bar. Always hold saw firmly with both hands.

Assembly & Preparation

Unpack and inspect contents. Assemble guide bar and chain.

  1. Attach guide bar: Remove side cover, position bar over studs, align chain drive links with sprocket.
  2. Install chain: Ensure cutting teeth face forward on top of bar.
  3. Tension chain: Use side-access wheel; pull up bar tip while tightening.
  4. Mix fuel: Use STIHL 2-stroke oil at 50:1 ratio (2% oil). Shake well.
  5. Fill tanks: Add fuel mix to fuel tank, chain oil to oil tank.

CAUTION! Use only STIHL-approved oils and fuels. Do not use automotive oil.

Specifications

Controls and Components

Main components: Front handle with chain brake, rear handle with throttle trigger, master control lever, decompression valve, fuel cap, oil cap.

Master Control Lever (3 positions): STOP (0), RUN (I), START/CHOKE (⏻).

Chain Brake: Manual activation via front hand guard; inertia-activated during kickback.

Throttle Trigger Lockout: Must be depressed before throttle can be engaged.

Decompression Valve: Reduces compression for easier starting.

Starting & Stopping

Cold Start:

  1. Set master control to START/CHOKE (⏻).
  2. Press decompression valve (if equipped).
  3. Place saw on ground, hold rear handle with right foot.
  4. Pull starter rope briskly until engine fires.
  5. Move master control to RUN (I).
  6. Pull starter rope again to start.
  7. Blip throttle to disengage fast idle.

Warm Start: Master control directly to RUN (I).

Stopping: Move master control to STOP (0).

Operating Instructions

Basic cutting techniques for felling, limbing, and bucking.

  1. Felling: Plan escape path. Make notch cut 1/3 into tree. Make felling cut opposite notch.
  2. Limbing: Work from trunk outward. Support saw with trunk.
  3. Bucking: Cut from top when log supported on both ends. Use undercut when log on ground.
  4. Kickback Prevention: Maintain firm grip, avoid tip contact, use reduced-kickback chain.

Tip: Let chain do the work; don't force the saw. Keep chain speed high during cuts.

Maintenance Schedule

Daily/Before Use: Check chain tension, sharpness, lubrication. Clean air filter. Inspect for damage.

Weekly: Clean cooling fins, check spark plug, clean fuel filter.

Monthly: Clean chain brake mechanism, check anti-vibration elements.

Annually: Replace fuel filter, spark plug. Have dealer check carburetor adjustment.

WARNING! Always disconnect spark plug before maintenance.

Chain & Bar Care

Chain sharpening: Use round file (4.0 mm) at 30° angle. File all cutters evenly.

Bar maintenance: Clean bar groove weekly. Flip bar monthly for even wear.

Lubrication: Use STIHL chain oil. Adjust oil flow with screw near oil cap.

CAUTION! Wear gloves when handling chain. Chain is extremely sharp.

Storage

Long-term storage (over 30 days):

  1. Drain fuel tank completely.
  2. Run engine until it stops to clear carburetor.
  3. Remove chain, clean and oil it.
  4. Store in dry place, cover to prevent dust.

WARNING! Never store with fuel in tank. Fuel deteriorates and can damage engine.

Troubleshooting

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
Engine won't startNo spark, flooded, old fuelCheck spark plug, use fresh fuel mix, follow starting procedure.
Engine runs then diesClogged fuel filter, air leakReplace fuel filter, check fuel lines.
Chain doesn't turnBrake engaged, clutch wornDisengage chain brake, inspect clutch.
Poor cutting performanceDull chain, improper tensionSharpen chain, adjust tension.
Excessive vibrationLoose components, worn AV mountsTighten all bolts, check anti-vibration elements.
Chain throws oilOver-oiling, wrong oil viscosityAdjust oiler, use proper chain oil.

Service: For repairs, contact authorized STIHL dealer. Do not attempt major repairs yourself.

Support: STIHL USA, 1-800-467-8445, www.stihlusa.com

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