Stihl MS211 Manual

The Stihl MS211 is a lightweight, easy-to-handle chainsaw designed for homeowners and occasional users. It features a 35.2 cc engine with STIHL anti-vibration system, Quickstop® inertia chain brake, Ematic™ lubrication system, and side-access chain tensioner. Below are key sections for safety, features, assembly, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

Features at a Glance

Key components: Engine, guide bar, saw chain, chain brake, throttle trigger, choke control, fuel tank, oil tank.

Feature	Description
Engine	35.2 cc, 2-stroke, single cylinder
Anti-Vibration System	STIHL system reduces vibration for user comfort
Quickstop® Inertia Chain Brake	Automatically stops chain in kickback situations
Ematic™ Lubrication System	Reduces oil consumption while ensuring proper chain lubrication
Side-Access Chain Tensioner	Easy chain adjustment without tools
Fuel Tank Capacity	Approx. 0.5 US pt (0.24 L)
Oil Tank Capacity	Approx. 0.26 US pt (0.125 L)
Recommended Bar Lengths	16" or 18" (40 cm or 45 cm)
Weight (without cutting attachment)	Approx. 10.1 lbs (4.6 kg)
Ignition System	Electronic, capacitor discharge ignition (CDI)

Safety Information

Read and understand all safety warnings before operation.

1. Wear protective equipment: safety glasses, hearing protection, gloves, chainsaw chaps, sturdy boots.
2. Clear work area of obstacles and ensure secure footing.
3. Never operate chainsaw with one hand or above shoulder height.
4. Keep bystanders and pets at least 15 feet away.
5. Always engage chain brake when carrying saw or not actively cutting.

WARNING! Risk of serious injury or death from kickback, chain contact, or loss of control. Always maintain secure grip and proper stance.

Assembly & Preparation

Unpack and inspect contents. Assemble guide bar and chain.

1. Attach guide bar: Remove bar cover nuts, position bar on studs, align chain sprocket.
2. Install saw chain: Place chain over bar with cutting edges facing forward, engage drive links in sprocket.
3. Tension chain: Use side-access tensioner to adjust until chain snaps back when pulled from bar.
4. Mix fuel: Use STIHL 2-stroke engine oil with unleaded gasoline (50:1 ratio). Shake well.
5. Fill tanks: Add fuel mix to fuel tank, STIHL chain oil to oil tank.

CAUTION! Use only STIHL-approved oils. Never use automotive oil or fuel with more than 10% ethanol.

Specifications

• Engine Displacement: 35.2 cc.
• Power Output: 1.8 kW (2.4 bhp).
• Fuel/Oil Ratio: 50:1 (STIHL 2-stroke oil).
• Idle Speed: 2,800 rpm.
• Maximum Power Speed: 9,000 rpm.
• Sound Pressure Level: 103 dB(A).
• Vibration Level (left/right): 3.5/4.0 m/s².
• Spark Plug: Bosch WSR 6F or NGK BPMR 7A.
• Recommended Chain Pitch: 3/8" PMM3.
• Warranty: Limited 1-year consumer warranty.

Controls and Components

Main controls: Throttle trigger, throttle trigger lockout, choke control, stop switch, chain brake lever, master control lever.

Master Control Lever Positions: - Run position (normal operation) - Cold start (choke position) - Warm start (half-throttle position) - Stop position (engine off)

Safety Features: Chain brake (manual/automatic), throttle trigger lockout, right-hand guard, chain catcher.

Starting & Stopping

Cold Start:

1. Engage chain brake by pushing forward.
2. Set master control lever to choke position.
3. Press decompression valve (if equipped).
4. Pull starter rope until engine fires.
5. Move master control to half-throttle position.
6. Pull starter rope again until engine starts.
7. Briefly blip throttle to disengage choke.

Warm Start: Master control in half-throttle position, pull starter rope.

Stopping: Release throttle, move master control to STOP position.

Operation Guidelines

Proper cutting techniques for safety and efficiency.

1. Hold saw firmly: Left hand on front handle, right hand on rear handle.
2. Position body: Stand to left of cut line with feet shoulder-width apart.
3. Begin cut: Allow chain to reach full speed before contacting wood.
4. Use appropriate cutting methods: Boring, plunging, or standard cuts as needed.
5. Avoid kickback: Do not cut with upper tip of bar; be aware of pinch points.
6. Take breaks: Prevent fatigue which can lead to accidents.

Tip: Let saw do the work; avoid forcing chain through cut.

Maintenance & Cleaning

Regular maintenance ensures optimal performance and longevity.

1. Daily: Clean air filter, check chain tension, inspect chain sharpness.
2. Weekly: Clean cooling fins, check spark plug, clean guide bar groove.
3. Monthly: Clean fuel filter, check all nuts and bolts for tightness.
4. Seasonally: Replace spark plug, clean carburetor air passage.

CAUTION! Always stop engine and allow to cool before maintenance. Disconnect spark plug wire for safety.

Chain & Bar Care

Proper chain maintenance ensures cutting efficiency and safety.

1. Sharpening: Use round file matching chain pitch (typically 5/32" for 3/8" PMM3).
2. Filing angle: Maintain 30° cutting angle; follow manufacturer's depth gauge settings.
3. Bar maintenance: Clean bar groove regularly; flip bar monthly for even wear.
4. Lubrication: Always use STIHL chain oil; check oil flow before each use.
5. Tension adjustment: Chain should be snug against bar but pull freely.

WARNING! Dull chain increases kickback risk. Replace chain when cutting edges cannot be properly sharpened.

Storage

Proper storage prevents fuel system issues and corrosion.

1. Short-term (under 30 days): Add fuel stabilizer to fuel mix.
2. Long-term (over 30 days): Drain fuel tank completely and run engine until it stops.
3. Remove chain: Clean and soak in oil; store separately.
4. Clean entire saw: Remove sawdust, dirt, and resin.
5. Store: In dry, secure location away from children and flammable materials.

CAUTION! Never store with fuel in tank for extended periods. Fuel deterioration can damage carburetor.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
Engine won't start	Fuel issues, spark plug, flooded engine	Check fuel mix; clean/replace spark plug; move master control to half-throttle and pull starter 10+ times.
Engine starts then dies	Clogged fuel filter, carburetor issues	Replace fuel filter; clean carburetor; check fuel lines.
Poor cutting performance	Dull chain, improper tension, worn bar	Sharpen chain; adjust tension; inspect/replace bar.
Chain won't stop when brake engaged	Worn brake band, dirty mechanism	Clean brake components; replace brake band if worn.
Excessive vibration	Loose components, unbalanced chain	Tighten all nuts/bolts; check chain for damage.
Chain throws oil	Overfilled oil tank, wrong oil type	Drain excess oil; use only STIHL chain oil.
Chain won't oil	Clogged oil passages, pump issues	Clean oil ports; check oil pump function.

Service: For complex repairs, contact authorized STIHL servicing dealer.

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