Stihl MS211 Chainsaw Manual

The Stihl MS211 is a lightweight, easy-to-use chainsaw designed for homeowners. It features a powerful gasoline engine with STIHL's advanced engine technology for reduced emissions and fuel consumption, an anti-vibration system, a QuickStop® inertia-activated chain brake, a side-access chain tensioner, and a tool-free fuel and oil cap system. Below are key sections for safety, features, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

Features at a Glance

Key components: Engine, Guide Bar, Saw Chain, Chain Brake Handle, Throttle Trigger, Master Control Lever, Fuel Tank, Oil Tank.

Safety Information

Read all instructions before use. Always wear proper PPE.

1. Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): Always wear safety glasses, hearing protection, gloves, chainsaw chaps/pants, and sturdy boots.
2. Pre-Operation Check: Inspect chainsaw for damage, ensure chain is sharp and properly tensioned, check fuel and oil levels.
3. Operating Zone: Keep bystanders and pets at least 15 feet away.
4. Kickback Awareness: Be aware of kickback zone (upper quadrant of bar tip); never cut with this area.

WARNING! A chainsaw is a dangerous tool. Failure to follow safety instructions can result in serious injury or death. Always engage the chain brake when carrying the saw or not making a cut.

Assembly & First Use

Assemble guide bar and chain. Prepare fuel mixture.

1. Attach Guide Bar & Chain: Place bar on studs, loop chain over sprocket and bar, adjust tension with side knob, tighten bar nuts.
2. Fuel Mixture: Use STIHL MotoMix® pre-mixed fuel or mix high-quality 2-stroke oil with unleaded gasoline (50:1 ratio). Do not use automotive oil or old gasoline.
3. Fill Tanks: Fill fuel tank with correct mixture. Fill bar and chain oil tank with STIHL chain oil or equivalent.
4. Starting Procedure: Engage chain brake. Set Master Control Lever to cold start position (choke). Pull starter rope until engine fires, then move lever to run position and pull again to start.

CAUTION! Fuel is highly flammable. Refuel in a well-ventilated area with engine off and cool. Wipe up spills immediately.

Specifications

• Engine Displacement: 35.2 cc (2.15 cu. in.)
• Power Output: 1.8 kW (2.4 bhp)
• Fuel Tank Volume: 0.33 US pt (0.16 l)
• Oil Tank Volume: 0.25 US pt (0.12 l)
• Guide Bar Lengths (Option): 16" (40 cm) typical
• Chain Pitch/Gauge: 3/8" PMM / .050" (1.3 mm)
• Weight (Powerhead): 9.9 lbs (4.5 kg)
• Sound Pressure Level: 103 dB(A)
• Vibration Levels (Front/Rear Handle): 4.5/3.5 m/s²
• Emissions Compliance: EPA Phase III, CARB Tier III

Controls and Components

Familiarize yourself with all controls before operation.

Right Side: Throttle Trigger, Throttle Trigger Lockout, Hand Guard / Chain Brake Lever.
Left Side: Master Control Lever (Stop/Choke/Run), Decompression Valve (if equipped), Fuel Cap, Oil Cap.
Rear: Rear Handle with Stop Switch symbol.
Top: Starter Grip, Spark Plug Cover.
Front: Guide Bar, Chain Sprocket Cover, Side-Access Chain Tensioner Knob.

Master Control Lever Positions:
- STOP (0): Engine off.
- COLD START (Choke Position): For starting a cold engine.
- NORMAL RUN (Run Position): For starting a warm engine or running.

Operation Guide

Proper cutting techniques ensure safety and efficiency.

1. Starting: Place saw on firm ground. Engage chain brake. Follow starting procedure. Allow engine to warm up at idle for 30 seconds.
2. Making a Cut: Disengage chain brake. Hold saw firmly with both hands. Apply light throttle and begin cut. Let the chain do the work; do not force it.
3. Buckling (Cutting Logs on Ground): Support log. Cut from top. For large logs, cut from top, then finish from underside to avoid pinching.
4. Limbing (Removing Branches): Stand on left side of trunk. Cut branches from bottom of tree working toward top. Beware of spring tension in branches.
5. Stopping: Release throttle, allow chain to stop. Move Master Control Lever to STOP (0). Engage chain brake.

Tip: Always plan your cut and escape path before starting the engine.

Chain & Bar Maintenance

Regular maintenance ensures optimal performance and safety.

1. Chain Sharpening: Use a round file and file guide. Maintain correct filing angle (typically 30°). File all cutters to equal length.
2. Chain Tensioning: Chain should be snug against bar but pull freely by hand. Adjust with side knob when engine is OFF and cool. Re-check tension after initial use.
3. Bar Maintenance: Clean bar groove regularly. Flip bar periodically for even wear. Check for wear and replace if grove is widened or rails are uneven.
4. Lubrication: Check oil flow before each use. Run saw at high speed (in a safe area) and hold tip near a light-colored surface; a fine line of oil should appear.

WARNING! Always wear heavy gloves when handling the chain. A dull chain requires more force and increases kickback risk.

Engine Maintenance

Air filter, spark plug, and fuel system care.

1. Air Filter: Clean regularly (more often in dusty conditions). Remove, tap clean, or wash in soapy water. Dry completely before reinstalling.
2. Spark Plug: Check and clean electrode gap periodically. Replace if electrodes are worn or damaged. Recommended gap: 0.020" (0.5 mm).
3. Fuel Filter: Replace fuel filter in tank annually or if clogged.
4. Carburetor Adjustment: Factory pre-set. Only adjust if necessary and with proper tools. Refer to specialized manual.
5. Muffler / Spark Arrestor Screen: Clean screen periodically to prevent carbon buildup (requires special tool).

CAUTION! Perform maintenance only when engine is OFF and completely cool. Disconnect spark plug wire for safety during major work.

Storage

Proper storage prevents fuel system issues.

1. Short-Term (Under 30 days): Empty fuel tank or add fuel stabilizer. Run engine for 2 minutes to circulate treated fuel.
2. Long-Term: Drain fuel tank and carburetor completely. Run engine until it stops. Remove spark plug, add a teaspoon of engine oil into cylinder, pull starter slowly to coat internals, reinstall plug. Store in a dry, clean place.
3. Chain & Bar: Clean and oil to prevent rust.

WARNING! Never store chainsaw with fuel in tank in an enclosed area due to fire and fume hazards.

Regulatory Information

This product complies with relevant EPA and CARB emissions standards. The STIHL MS211 incorporates safety features meeting ANSI B175.1 standards. STIHL, QuickStop, Oilomatic, and Ematic are trademarks of ANDREAS STIHL AG & Co. KG. For genuine parts, accessories, and service, see your authorized STIHL dealer. For support, visit www.stihlusa.com or contact 1-800-467-8445.

Troubleshooting

Dealer Service: For repairs beyond basic maintenance, take your STIHL MS211 to an authorized STIHL servicing dealer.

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