The STIHL MS 380 is a professional-grade chainsaw designed for demanding forestry and arborist work. It features a powerful engine, robust construction, advanced safety systems including a chain brake and throttle lockout, anti-vibration handles, and STIHL's Quickstop® inertia-activated chain brake. Below are key sections for safety, features, assembly, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.
Key components: High-performance engine with decompression valve, anti-vibration system, Quickstop® chain brake, side-access chain tensioner, tool-free air filter cover, and STIHL Ematic™ lubrication system.
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Engine Displacement | 64.1 cc professional engine |
| Power Output | High torque for demanding cuts |
| Anti-Vibration System | Reduces operator fatigue |
| Quickstop® Inertia Chain Brake | Stops chain in milliseconds if kickback occurs |
| Side-Access Chain Tensioner | Easy chain adjustment without tools |
| STIHL Ematic™ System | Efficient chain lubrication |
| Decompression Valve | Easier starting |
| Throttle Lockout | Prevents accidental throttle activation |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 0.81 US qt (0.77 liter) |
| Oil Tank Capacity | 0.51 US qt (0.48 liter) |
Read and understand all safety warnings before operation.
WARNING! Kickback can cause severe injury or death. Maintain secure footing, grip handles firmly, and never operate above shoulder height.
Unpack and inspect contents. Assemble on clean, stable surface.
CAUTION! Ensure chain brake is disengaged during assembly. Wear gloves when handling chain.
Master Control Lever: Combines stop switch, choke, and fast idle. Throttle Trigger & Lockout: Must depress lockout to activate throttle. Chain Brake Lever: Manual engagement; inertia-activated. Decompression Valve: Reduces cylinder pressure for easier starting. Side-Access Chain Tensioner: Located near guide bar mount.
Main Components: Fuel Cap, Oil Cap, Air Filter Cover, Spark Plug, Muffler, Handle, Rear Handle Guard, Chain Catcher.
Cold Start:
Warm Start: Master Control in run position (horizontal). Do not touch throttle.
Cutting Techniques: Use full throttle when cutting. Let chain do the work; do not force. Beware of pinch points, tension/compression in wood.
| Interval | Task |
|---|---|
| Daily/Before Use | Check chain tension, sharpness, brake function; clean air filter; inspect for damage |
| Every 10 Hours | Clean spark arrestor screen; check fuel filter |
| Every 20 Hours | Replace air filter; clean cooling fins; check spark plug |
| Every 100 Hours | Clean carburetor; check anti-vibration elements |
| Annually | Professional servicing recommended |
Tip: Always disconnect spark plug wire before performing maintenance.
Sharpening: Use correct round file size for chain. Maintain 30° cutting angle, 10° top plate angle. File all cutters evenly. Depth gauges: File to 0.025" (0.65 mm) with depth gauge tool. Bar Maintenance: Clean bar groove weekly. Flip bar weekly for even wear. Lubricate sprocket tip regularly.
WARNING! Dull chain increases kickback risk and operator fatigue. Always stop engine for chain maintenance.
Fuel: Use 89+ octane unleaded gasoline mixed 50:1 with STIHL HP Ultra oil. For pre-mix, use STIHL MotoMix®. Do not use fuel older than 60 days. Bar & Chain Oil: Use STIHL chainsaw oil or equivalent for temperatures above 14°F (-10°C). For colder temps, use STIHL Arctic oil. Check oil flow: Run at full throttle over light surface; should see oil line.
For storage over 30 days:
CAUTION! Never store with fuel in tank; gumming can damage carburetor.
| Symptom | Possible Cause | Corrective Action |
|---|---|---|
| Engine won't start | No spark, flooded, old fuel | Check spark plug; use fresh fuel; follow correct starting procedure. |
| Engine runs then dies | Clogged fuel filter, air filter, carburetor | Replace fuel filter; clean air filter; service carburetor. |
| Loss of power | Dirty air filter, clogged spark arrestor, dull chain | Clean/replace air filter; clean spark arrestor; sharpen chain. |
| Chain won't turn | Brake engaged, clutch worn, chain too tight | Disengage brake; inspect clutch; adjust chain tension. |
| Excessive vibration | Loose components, worn AV mounts, unbalanced chain | Tighten all fasteners; replace AV mounts; sharpen chain evenly. |
| Chain throws oil | Oil pump set too high, wrong oil viscosity | Adjust oiler (if adjustable); use correct oil for temperature. |
Service: For repairs beyond basic maintenance, contact authorized STIHL servicing dealer.
STIHL Technical Support: 1-800-467-8445 | www.stihlusa.com