STIHL Pole Saw HT 131 Manual

The STIHL HT 131 is a professional-grade, gasoline-powered pole saw designed for extended reach pruning and cutting of high branches. It features a powerful 2-stroke engine, a telescopic shaft for adjustable length, a high-performance cutting bar and chain, anti-vibration system, and STIHL's advanced engine management for optimized performance and reduced emissions. Below are key sections for safety, features, assembly, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

Features at a Glance

Key components: STIHL 2-MIX engine, telescopic shaft, HT 131 powerhead, guide bar and saw chain, anti-vibration handles, master control lever, and automatic chain oiler.

Feature	Description
STIHL 2-MIX Engine	Reduced fuel consumption and lower exhaust emissions
Telescopic Shaft	Adjustable length for optimal reach (approx. 2.4m - 3.2m)
Anti-Vibration System	Reduces operator fatigue during extended use
Master Control Lever	Combines stop switch, choke, and throttle lock
Automatic Chain Oiler	Ensures continuous lubrication of bar and chain
Decompression Valve	Easier starting
QuickStop® Inertia Chain Brake	Stops the chain in milliseconds in case of kickback
Ergonomic Handle	Comfortable grip with integrated controls

Safety Information

Read and understand all instructions before use. Always wear appropriate PPE.

1. Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): Wear safety helmet, eye protection, hearing protection, gloves, and cut-resistant leg protection.
2. Work Area Safety: Keep bystanders and pets at least 15m away. Be aware of falling branches.
3. Electrical Hazards: Never operate near power lines. Assume all lines are energized.
4. Kickback Zone: Be aware of the upper quadrant of the guide bar nose where kickback occurs.
5. Fuel Safety: Refuel in a well-ventilated area with engine off and cool. Use only STIHL MotoMix or equivalent.

WARNING! Improper use can cause serious or fatal injury. Never operate with one hand or above shoulder height.

Assembly & Preparation

Assemble the pole saw before first use.

1. Attach Powerhead: Connect the HT 131 powerhead to the telescopic shaft by aligning and tightening the coupling.
2. Attach Guide Bar & Chain: Fit the guide bar onto the powerhead sprocket. Place the chain over the bar, ensuring cutting teeth face forward on top. Adjust chain tension.
3. Extend Shaft: Loosen the locking collar, extend the shaft to desired length, and re-tighten securely.
4. Fill Fluids: Add STIHL HP Ultra or equivalent 2-stroke engine oil to the fuel tank (50:1 mix). Fill the chain oil reservoir with STIHL chain oil.

CAUTION! Ensure all connections are tight and secure before starting the engine.

Specifications

• Engine Type: STIHL 2-MIX, single cylinder, 2-stroke
• Displacement: 36.3 cc
• Power Output: 1.8 kW / 2.4 hp
• Fuel/Oil Mix: 50:1 (STIHL MotoMix recommended)
• Guide Bar Length: Typically 30 cm (12 inches)
• Chain Pitch/Gauge: 1/4" P / .043" (1.1 mm)
• Dry Weight (approx.): 7.8 kg (powerhead only)
• Sound Pressure Level: ~ 106 dB(A)
• Vibration Level: Front Handle: ~ 4.5 m/s², Rear Handle: ~ 6.5 m/s²

Controls and Components

Familiarize yourself with all controls before operation.

Powerhead Controls: Master Control Lever (Choke/Throttle Lock/Stop), Throttle Trigger, Chain Brake Lever (front hand guard), Decompression Valve.

Shaft Handle: Rear handle with throttle trigger lockout and main handle with vibration damping.

Other Components: Fuel Tank Cap, Chain Oil Tank Cap, Spark Plug, Muffler, Air Filter Cover, Chain Tensioner.

Fuel & Lubrication

Use only high-quality, clean fluids.

1. Fuel: Use 89+ octane unleaded gasoline mixed with a high-quality 2-stroke engine oil at a 50:1 ratio. STIHL MotoMix pre-mixed fuel is recommended to avoid engine damage.
2. Chain Oil: Use STIHL chain oil or a biodegradable alternative with good adhesive properties. Check oil level frequently and refill as needed.
3. Procedure: Clean area around caps. Fill tanks slowly to avoid spills. Wipe away any spilled fuel/oil immediately. Tighten caps securely.

Tip: Never use automotive motor oil, dirty oil, or old fuel mixture.

Starting & Operation

Follow cold or warm starting procedure.

1. Cold Start: Engage chain brake. Set Master Control lever to choke (full down). Press decompression valve. Pull starter rope sharply until engine fires. Move lever to half-throttle position. Pull again to start. Blip throttle to disengage fast idle.
2. Warm Start: Set Master Control lever to run position (horizontal). Pull starter rope.
3. Operation: Disengage chain brake by pulling back hand guard. Squeeze throttle trigger to engage chain. Allow saw to reach full speed before cutting.
4. Stopping: Release throttle trigger. Let engine idle. Move Master Control lever up to STOP position.

WARNING! Always engage the chain brake when starting, carrying, or when not actively cutting.

Cutting Techniques

Proper technique ensures safety and efficiency.

1. Stance & Grip: Stand firmly with feet apart. Grip handles firmly with both hands, thumbs wrapped.
2. Basic Cut: Let the saw do the work. Use the bumper spike (if equipped) as a pivot. Avoid forcing the bar.
3. Pruning: Make an undercut first, then a top cut slightly farther out from the trunk to avoid bark tearing.
4. Kickback Avoidance: Do not cut with the nose of the guide bar. Be aware of pinching, binding, and loose branches.
5. Overhead Cutting: Be extremely cautious. Be prepared for the weight of the falling branch. Never cut directly overhead.

CAUTION! Plan your cuts and escape path. Watch for spring poles and tension in wood.

Maintenance & Storage

Regular maintenance ensures long life and safe operation.

Daily/Before Use: Check chain tension and sharpness. Check all fasteners for tightness. Clean air filter. Check fuel and oil levels. Inspect for damage.

Cleaning: Remove debris from cooling fins, air intake, and guide bar groove. Use a brush or compressed air.

Chain Sharpening: Use a round file and filing guide. Maintain correct filing angle and depth gauge settings.

Storage: For long-term storage, run the engine dry of fuel or add fuel stabilizer. Clean entire unit. Store in a dry, secure place, out of reach of children.

CAUTION! Always disconnect the spark plug boot before performing any maintenance other than refueling or chain tensioning.

Warranty Information

STIHL products are backed by a limited warranty. The STIHL HT 131 typically includes a 1-year commercial warranty or a longer consumer warranty, subject to terms and conditions. Proof of purchase from an authorized STIHL dealer is required. Warranty does not cover damage from misuse, neglect, improper fuel, or unauthorized repairs. For full warranty details, contact your local authorized STIHL dealer or visit www.stihlusa.com.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
Engine will not start	No fuel, flooded engine, spark plug faulty, master control position	Check fuel; set control to run; check spark plug; follow starting procedure.
Engine runs but chain does not turn	Chain brake engaged, clutch worn, drive sprocket worn	Disengage chain brake; inspect clutch and sprocket; see dealer.
Engine lacks power or stalls	Dirty air filter, clogged fuel filter, carburetor adjustment	Clean/replace air filter; replace fuel filter; see authorized dealer for carb adjustment.
Chain does not get oil	Empty oil tank, clogged oil passages, oil pump issue	Fill tank; clean bar groove and oil holes; check oil pump function.
Excessive vibration	Loose components, unbalanced/damaged chain, bent shaft	Tighten all fasteners; sharpen/balance chain; inspect shaft for damage.
Chain cuts crooked	Dull or unevenly sharpened cutters, uneven depth gauges	Sharpen chain correctly, filing all cutters to same length and angle.

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

Support: www.stihlusa.com | Find your dealer: 1-800-467-8445