Stihl 044 Manual

Important Safety Precautions for Chain Saw Users  

A. Kickback Safety Precautions  

Warning!  

take several steps to keep your  

cutting jobs free from accident or  

injury.  

6. Follow manufacturer’s  

sharpening and maintenance  

instructions for the saw chain.  

!

Kickback may occur when the nose  

or tip of the guide bar touches an  

object, or when the wood closes in  

and pinches the saw chain in the  

cut. Tip contact in some cases may  

cause a lightning fast reverse  

reaction, kicking the guide bar up  

and back towards the operator.  

Pinching the saw chain along the  

top of the guide bar may push the  

guide bar rapidly back towards the  

operator. Either of these reactions  

may cause you to lose control of the  

saw which could result in serious  

personal injury.  

1.  

With a basic understanding of  

kickback, you can reduce or eli-  

minate the element of surprise.  

Sudden surprise contributes to  

accidents.  

7. Only use replacement bars and  

chains specified by the manu-  

facturer or the equivalent.  

8. Reduced kickback bars and low  

kickback chains are designed  

to reduce the risk of kickback  

injury. Ask your STIHL dealer  

about these devices.  

2.  

Keep a good firm grip on the  

saw with both hands, the right  

hand on the rear handle,  

and the left hand on the front  

handle, when the engine is run-  

ning. Use a firm grip with  

thumbs and fingers encircling  

the chainsaw handles.  

B. Other Safety Precautions  

1. Do not operate a chainsaw with  

one hand! Serious injury to the  

operator, helpers, bystanders,  

or any combination of these  

persons may result from one-  

handed operation. A chainsaw  

is intended to be used with two  

hands.  

A firm grip will help you reduce  

kickback and maintain control  

of the saw.  

Section 5.12 of ANSI B 175.1-1991  

sets certain performance and  

design criteria related to chainsaw  

kickback. STIHL has developed a  

color code system using green and  

yellow to help you select a power-  

head, bar and chain combination  

that complies with the kickback  

requirements of the ANSI Standard.  

See the sections entitled "Safety  

Precautions" and "Specifications"  

of this manual.  

Don’t let go.  

3.  

Make sure the area in which you  

are cutting is free from obstruc-  

tions. Do not let the nose of the  

guide bar contact a log, branch,  

or any other obstruction while  

you are operating the saw.  

2. Do not operate a chainsaw when  

you are fatigued.  

3. Use safety footwear; snug-fitting  

clothing; protective gloves; and  

eye, hearing, and head protect-  

ion devices.  

4

.

.

Cut at high engine speeds.  

5

Do not overreach or cut above  

shoulder height.  

Do not rely exclusively upon the  

safety devices built into your saw.  

As a chainsaw user, you should  

continued on the back inside cover  

Contents  

Main Parts of the Saw  

Definitions  

2

3

After Finishing Work  

Storing the Machine  

Air Filter System  

35  

35  

36  

37  

38  

38  

39  

39  

40  

40  

This Manual contains operating and  

safety instructions for all STIHL 044  

series power saws.  

Safety Precautions  

4

-

-

-

-

The Operator  

4

HD Filter*  

Pay special attention to the safety  

precautions outlined on the inside cover  

and on pages 4 to 24.  

The Saw  

6

Winter Operation  

The Use of the Saw  

Maintaining and Storing the Saw  

6

Electrically Handle Heating*  

Adjusting Carburetor  

Motor Management  

Spark Arresting Screen in Muffler  

Checking Spark Plug  

Replacing Starter Rope and  

Rewind Spring  

23  

25  

26  

26  

26  

27  

28  

28  

28  

29  

30  

30  

33  

34  

34  

35  

Allow only persons who understand this  

Manual to operate your chainsaw.  

To receive maximum performance and  

satisfaction from your STIHL chainsaw,  

it is important that you read and under-  

stand the maintenance and safety  

precautions before using your saw.  

Contact your STIHL dealer or the  

STIHL distributor for your area if you do  

not understand any of the instructions in  

this Manual.  

Mounting the Bar and Chain  

Tensioning the Saw Chain  

Checking Chain Tension  

Fuel  

Fueling  

39  

Chain Lubricant  

Checking and Replacing  

Chain Sprocket  

Filling Chain Oil Tank  

Checking Chain Lubrication  

Chain Brake  

42  

43  

Ordering Spare Parts  

Maintaining and Sharpening  

Saw Chain  

Information Before You Start  

Starting  

44  

47  

48  

Maintenance Chart  

Oil Quantity Control  

Taking Care of Guide Bar  

During Break- in Period  

During Operation  

Specifications  

!

STIHL Incorporated Federal Emission  

Control Warranty Statement  

Warning!  

49  

Because a chainsaw is a high-speed  

wood-cutting tool, some special safety  

precautions must be observed as with  

any other power saw to reduce the risk of  

personal injury. Careless or improper use  

may cause serious or even fatal injury.  

STIHL’s philosophy is to continually  

improve all of its products. As a result,  

engineering changes and improvements  

are made from time-to-time.  

If the operating characteristics or the  

appearance of your saw differs from  

those described in this Manual,  

Printed on chlorine-free paper  

Printing inks contain vegetable oils,  

paper is recyclable  

please contact your STIHL dealer for  

informations and assistance.  

2

000 Andreas Stihl AG & Co., Waiblingen  

0458 132 3021. M10. F0. Fi. Printed in Germany  

* Special equipment  

044  

1

Main Parts of the Saw  

1

2

3

4

5

6

7

8

9

= Twist lock  

= Spark plug boot  

= Chain sprocket cover  

= Chain sprocket  

= Chain brake  

= Chain catcher  

= Chain tensioner  

= Bumper spike  

= Guide bar  

2

1

1

0 = Oilomatic saw chain  

5

8

4

7

9

10  

3

6

1

1

1

1

1

1

1

1

1

2

2

1 = Oil filler cap  

2 = Muffler  

3 = Front hand guard  

4 = Front handle (handlebar)  

5 = Starter grip  

1

4

13  

6 = Master Control lever  

7 = Fuel filler cap  

8 = Throttle trigger  

9 = Throttle trigger interlock  

0 = Rear handle  

1

5

1 = Rear hand guard  

1

2

19  

21  

1

6

20  

18  

1

1

1

7

2

044  

Definitions  

1

.

Carburetor Box Cover Twist Lock  

11. Oil Filler cap  

For closing the oil tank.  

20. Rear Handle  

The support handle for the right  

Lock for carburetor box cover.  

hand, located at or toward the  

rear of the saw.  

2.  

Spark Plug Boot  

12. Muffler  

Reduces engine exhaust noise and  

directs the exhaust gases.  

Connects the spark plug with the  

ignition wire.  

21. Rear Hand Guard  

Gives added protection to  

operator’s right hand.  

3.  

Chain Sprocket Cover  

1

3. Front Hand Guard  

Covers the clutch and the sprocket.  

Provides protection against  

projecting branches and helps  

prevent left hand from  

Guide Bar Nose  

4.  

Chain Sprocket  

The exposed end of the guide bar.  

(not illustrated, see chapter  

“Tensioning the Saw Chain”).  

The toothed wheel that drives the  

saw chain.  

touching the chain if it slips off  

the handle bar. It also serves as the  

lever for chain brake activation.  

5.  

Chain Brake  

Clutch  

A device to stop the rotation of the  

chain if activated in a kickback  

situation by the operator’s hand or  

by inertia.  

1

4. Front Handle  

Couples engine to chain sprocket  

when engine is accelerated beyond  

idle speed.  

Handle bar for the left hand at  

front of saw.  

(not illustrated).  

6.  

Chain Catcher  

15. Starter Grip  

The grip of the starter, for starting  

Helps to reduce the risk of operator  

contact by a chain when it breaks  

or comes off the bar.  

Anti-Vibration System  

the engine.  

The anti-vibration system includes  

a number of buffers designed to  

reduce the transmission of vibrations  

created by the engine and cutting  

attachment to the operator’s hands.  

(not illustrated).  

1

6. Master Control Lever  

7.  

Chain Tensioner  

Lever for choke control, starting  

throttle, run and stop switch position.  

Permits precise adjustment of chain  

tension.  

1

1

1

7. Fuel Filler Cap  

8.  

Bumper Spike  

For closing the fuel tank.  

Toothed stop for holding saw steady  

against wood.  

8. Throttle Trigge.  

Controls the speed of the engine.  

9.  

Guide Bar  

Supports and guides the saw chain.  

9. Throttle Trigger Interlock  

Must be depressed before the  

throttle trigger can be activate.  

10. Oilomatic Saw Chain  

A loop consisting of cutters, tie  

straps and drive links.  

044  

3

Safety Precautions  

The use of any chainsaw  

Have your STIHL dealer show you how  

to operate your chainsaw. Observe all  

applicable local safety regulations,  

standards and ordinances.  

Safe use of a chainsaw involves  

may be hazardous.  

The saw chain has many  

1. the operator  

2. the saw  

sharp cutters. If the  

cutters contact your flesh,  

3. the use of the saw.  

they will cut you, even if the chain is not  

moving. At full throttle, the chain speed  

can reach 45 mph (20 m/s). It is impor-  

tant that you read, fully understand  

and observe the following safety precau-  

tions and warnings. Read the Owner’s  

Manual and the safety instructions  

periodically.  

!

Warning!  

Minors should never be allowed to use a  

chainsaw. Bystanders, especially  

THE OPERATOR  

children, and animals should not be  

allowed in the area where a chainsaw is  

in use. Never let the saw run unattended.  

Store it in a locked place away from  

children and empty the fuel tank before  

storing for longer than a few days.  

Physical Condition  

You must be in good physical condition  

and mental health and not under the  

influence of any substance (drugs,  

alcohol) which might impair vision,  

dexterity or judgment.  

Pay special attention to the section on  

reactive forces.  

Do not lend or rent your  

chainsaw without the  

Do not operate a chainsaw when you are  

fatigued. Be alert – If you get tired while  

operating your chainsaw, take a break.  

Tiredness may result in loss of control.  

Working with any chainsaw can be  

strenuous. If you have any condition that  

might be aggravated by strenuous work,  

check with your doctor before operating  

a chainsaw.  

!

Warning!  

Owner‘s Manual. Be sure  

that anyone using your  

Reactive forces, including kickback, can  

be dangerous. Careless or improper use  

of any chainsaw may cause serious or  

fatal injury.  

saw reads and under-  

stands the information contained in this  

manual.  

All safety precautions that are generally  

observed when working with an ax or a  

hand saw also apply to the operation of  

chainsaws. However, because a chain-  

saw is a high-speed, fast-cutting power  

tool, special safety precautions must be  

observed to reduce the risk of personal  

injury.  

These safety precautions and warnings  

apply to the use of all STIHL chainsaws.  

Different models may have different  

parts and controls. See the appropriate  

section of your Owner’s Manual for a  

description of the controls and function  

of the parts of your model saw.  

!

Warning!  

Prolonged use of chainsaws (or other  

machines) exposing the operator to  

vibrations may produce whitefinger  

disease (Raynaud’s phenomenon) or  

carpal tunnel syndrome. These conditions  

4

reduce the hand’s ability to feel and  

regulate temperature, produce numb-  

ness and burning sensations and may  

cause nerve and circulation damage and  

tissue necrosis.  

–

–

Keep the saw chain sharp and the  

saw, including the AV system, well  

maintained. A dull chain will in-  

crease cutting time, and pressing a  

dull chain through wood will in-  

crease the vibrations transmitted to  

your hands. A saw with loose com-  

ponents or with damaged or worn  

AV buffers will also tend to have  

higher vibration levels.  

Clothing must be sturdy  

and snug-fitting, but allow  

complete freedom of  

movement. Avoid loose-  

fitting jackets, scarfs,  

neckties, jewelry, flared or cuffed pants,  

unconfined long hair or anything that  

could become entangled with the saw or  

brush. Wear overalls or jeans with a  

reinforced cut retardant insert or cut  

retardant chaps.  

All factors which contribute to whitefinger  

disease are not known, but cold weather,  

smoking and diseases or physical condi-  

tions that affect blood vessels and blood  

transport, as well as high vibration levels  

and long periods of exposure to vibration  

are mentioned as factors in the develop-  

ment of whitefinger disease. In order to  

reduce the risk of whitefinger disease  

and carpal tunnel syndrome, please  

note the following:  

Maintain a firm grip at all times, but  

do not squeeze the handles with  

constant, excessive pressures.  

Take frequent breaks.  

Protect your hands with  

gloves when handling  

saw and saw chain.  

Heavyduty, nonslip  

All the above mentioned precautions do  

not guarantee that you will not sustain  

whitefinger disease or carpal tunnel  

syndrome. Therefore, continual and  

regular users should monitor closely the  

condition of their hands and fingers.  

If any of the above symptoms appear,  

seek medical advice immediately.  

gloves improve your grip  

and protect your hands.  

–

Many STIHL models are available  

with an anti-vibration (“AV”) system  

designed to reduce the transmission  

of vibrations created by the engine  

and cutting attachment to the  

operator’s hands. An AV system is  

recommended for those persons  

using chainsaws on a regular or  

sustained basis.  

Good footing is most  

important in chainsaw  

work. Wear sturdy boots  

with nonslip soles.  

Steel-toed safety boots  

are recommended.  

Proper Clothing  

To reduce the risk of injury to your eyes  

never operate a chainsaw unless  

wearing goggles or properly fitted safety  

glasses with adequate top and side  

protection complying with your national  

standard.  

–

Wear gloves and keep your hands  

warm. Heated handles, which are  

available on most STIHL power-  

heads, are recommended for cold  

weather use.  

!

Warning!  

To reduce the risk of injury, the operator  

should wear proper protective apparel.  

5

Wear an approved safety  

hard hat to protect your  

THE USE OF THE SAW  

head. Chainsaw noise  

Transporting the chainsaw  

may damage your  

hearing. Always wear  

!

sound barriers (ear plugs  

Warning!  

or ear mufflers) to protect your hearing.  

Continual and regular users should have  

their hearing checked regularly.  

Always stop the engine before putting a  

chainsaw down or carrying it. Carrying a  

chainsaw with the engine running is  

extremely dangerous.  

THE SAW  

Accidental acceleration of the engine  

can cause the chain to rotate. During  

operation, the powerhead muffler and  

the material around it reach extremely  

high temperatures. Avoid touching the  

hot muffler, you could receive serious  

burns.  

Parts of the chainsaw; for illustrations  

and definitions of the parts see the  

chapter on “Main Parts of Saw”.  

!

Warning!  

Never modify a chainsaw in any way.  

Only attachments and parts supplied by  

STIHL or expressly approved by STIHL  

for use with the specific STIHL saw  

models are authorized. Although certain  

unauthorized attachments are useable  

with the STIHL powerhead, their use  

may, in fact, be extremely dangerous.  

By hand: When carrying your saw by  

hand, the engine must be stopped and  

the saw must be in the proper position.  

The chain guard (scabbard) should be  

over the chain and the guide bar, which  

should point backwards. When carrying  

your saw, the bar should be behind you.  

Grip the front handle and place the  

muffler away from the body.  

By vehicle: When transporting in a  

vehicle, keep chain and bar covered with  

the chain guard. Properly secure your  

saw to prevent turnover, fuel spillage  

and damage to the saw.  

6

Preparation for the use of the saw  

and thereafter at regular intervals (when-  

ever the saw is shut off). If the chain  

becomes loose while cutting, shut off the  

engine and then tighten. Never try to  

tighten the chain while the engine is  

running!  

Fueling Instructions  

Warning!  

Take off the chain guard and inspect for  

safety in operation. For assembly, follow  

the procedure described in the chapter  

!

Fuel your chainsaw in well-ventilated  

areas, outdoors only. Always shut off the  

engine and allow it to cool before refue-  

ling. Gasoline vapor pressure may build  

up inside the gas tank of a two cycle  

engine depending on the fuel used, the  

weather conditions, and the venting  

system of the tank. In order to reduce  

the risk of burns or other personal injury  

from escaping gas vapor and fumes,  

remove the fuel filler cap on the STIHL  

product carefully so as to allow any  

pressure build-up in the tank to release  

slowly. Never remove fuel filler cap while  

engine is running.  

“

Mounting the Bar and Chain” of your  

Owner’s Manual.  

STIHL Oilomatic chain, guide bar and  

sprocket must match each other in  

gauge and pitch.  

Fueling  

Your STIHL chainsaw uses an oil-gaso-  

line mixture for fuel (see chapter “Fuel”  

of your Owner’s Manual).  

Before replacing any bar and chain,  

see the sections on “Specifications”,  

"

Kickback" and the "ANSI B 175.1-1991  

!

chainsaw kickback standard" in this  

manual.  

Warning!  

Gasoline is an extremely flammable fuel.  

If spilled or ignited by a spark or other  

ignition source, it can cause fire and  

serious burn injury or property damage.  

Use extreme caution when handling  

gasoline or fuel mix.  

!

Warning!  

Select bare ground for fueling and move  

at least 10 feet (3 m) from fueling spot  

before starting the engine. Wipe off any  

spilled fuel before starting your saw, and  

check for leakage.  

Proper tension of the chain is extremely  

important. In order to avoid improper  

setting, the tensioning procedure must  

be followed as described in your manual.  

Always make sure the hexagonal nut(s)  

for the sprocket cover is (are) tightened  

securely after tensioning the chain.  

Do not smoke or bring  

any fire or flame near the  

fuel or the chainsaw.  

Note that combustible  

fuel vapors may be vented  

from the fuel system.  

!

Warning!  

Never start the saw with the sprocket  

cover loose. Check chain tension once  

more after having tightened the nut(s)  

Check for fuel leakage while refueling  

and during operation. If fuel or oil leakage  

is found, do not start or run the engine  

until leak is fixed and spilled fuel has  

been wiped away. Take care not to get  

fuel on your clothing. If this happens,  

change your clothing immediately.  

7

!

Warning!  

Unit vibrations can cause an improperly  

tightened fuel filler cap to loosen or come  

off and spill quantities of fuel. In order to  

reduce the risk of fuel spillage and fire,  

tighten fuel filler cap by hand with as  

much force as possible.  

The screwdriver end of  

the STIHL combination  

wrench or other similar  

tool can be used as an aid  

in tightening slotted fuel  

filler caps.  

Starting  

The chain brake must be engaged when  

starting the saw.  

With the first method, the chainsaw is  

started on the ground. Make sure the  

chain brake is engaged (see “Chain  

Brake” chapter in your Owner’s Manual)  

and place the chainsaw on firm ground  

or other solid surface in an open area.  

Maintain good balance and secure  

footing.  

The second recommended method for  

starting your chainsaw allows you to start  

the saw without placing it on the  

!

Warning!  

Your chainsaw is a one-person saw.  

Do not allow other persons to be near  

the running chainsaw. Start and operate  

your saw without assistance. For specific  

starting instructions, see the appropriate  

section of the Owner’s Manual. Proper  

starting methods reduce the risk of injury.  

Do not drop start. This method is very  

dangerous because you may lose control  

of the saw.  

ground. Make sure the chain brake is  

engaged, grip the front handle of the  

chainsaw firmly with your left hand.  

Keep your arm on the front handle in a  

locked (straight) position. Hold the rear  

handle of the saw tightly between your  

legs just above the knees. Maintain good  

balance and secure footing. Pull the  

starting grip slowly with your right hand  

until you feel a definite resistance and then  

give it a brisk, strong pull.  

Grip the front handlebar of the saw firmly  

with your left hand and press down.  

For saws with a rear handle level with  

the ground, put the toe of your right foot  

into the rear handle and press down.  

With your right hand pull out the starter  

grip slowly until you feel a definite  

resistance and then give it a brisk,  

strong pull.  

There are two recommended methods  

for starting your chainsaw.  

8

Important adjustments  

!

Warning!  

To reduce the risk of personal injury from  

loss of control or contact with the  

running chain, do not use a saw with  

incorrect idle adjustment. At correct idle  

speed, the chain should not rotate. For  

directions to adjust idle speed, see the  

appropriate section of your Owner’s  

Manual. If you cannot set the correct idle  

speed, have your STIHL dealer check  

your saw and make proper adjustments  

or repairs.  

To reduce the risk of serious or fatal  

injury from breathing toxic fumes, never  

run the chainsaw indoors or in poorly  

ventilated locations. Ensure proper venti-  

lation when working in trenches or other  

confined areas.  

!

Warning!  

Be sure that the guide bar and chain are  

clear of you and all other obstructions  

and objects, including the ground. When  

the engine is started, the engine speed  

with the starting throttle lock engaged  

will be fast enough for the clutch to  

engage the sprocket and, if the chain-  

brake is not activated, turn the chain.  

If the upper quadrant of the tip of the bar  

touches any object, it may cause kick-  

back to occur (see section on reactive  

forces). To reduce this risk, always  

!WWarning!  

Use of this product (including sharpen-  

ing the saw chain) can generate dust,  

mists and fumes containing chemicals  

known to cause respiratory disease, can-  

cer, birth defects, or other reproductive  

harm. If you are unfamiliar with the risks  

associated with the particular dust, mist  

or fume at issue, consult your employer,  

governmental agencies such as OSHA  

and NIOSH and other sources on hazar-  

dous materials. California and some  

other authorities, for instance, have pub-  

lished lists of substances known to cause  

cancer, reproductive toxicity, etc.  

engage the chain brake before starting.  

Never attempt to start the chainsaw  

when the guide bar is in a cut or kerf.  

After adjusting a chain, start the saw, let  

the engine run for a while, then switch  

engine off and recheck chain tension.  

Proper chain tension is very important at  

all times.  

!

Warning!  

When you pull the starter grip, do not  

wrap the starting rope around your  

hands. Do not allow the grip to snap  

back, but guide the starter rope slowly  

back to permit the rope to rewind  

Working Conditions  

Operate the chainsaw under good  

visibility and daylight conditions only.  

Control dust (such as sawdust), mists  

properly. Failure to follow this procedure  

may result in injury to hand or fingers  

and may damage the starter mechanism.  

(

such as oli mist from chain lubrication)  

!

Warning!  

and fumes at the source where possible.  

In this regard use good work practices  

and follow the recommendations of  

OSHA / NIOSH and occupational and  

trade associations. When the inhalation  

of toxic dust, mists and fumes cannot be  

Your chainsaw produces  

poisonous exhaust fumes  

as soon as the combusti-  

ble engine is running.  

These gases (e.g. carbon  

monoxide) may be colorless and odor-  

less.  

9

eliminated, the operator and any by-  

standers should always wear a respirator  

approved by NIOSH / MSHA for the type  

substance at issue.  

hot. Don’t work alone. Keep within calling  

distance of others in case help is  

needed.  

!

Warning!  

Avoid stumbling on obstacles such as  

stumps, roots or rocks and watch out for  

holes or ditches. Clear the area where  

you are working. Be extremely cautious  

when working on slopes or uneven  

ground. There is increased danger of  

slipping on freshly debarked logs.  

Your chainsaw is equipped with a chain  

catcher. It is designed to reduce the risk  

of personal injury in the event of a thrown  

or broken chain. From time to time the  

catcher may be damaged or removed.  

To reduce the risk of personal injury,  

do not operate a chainsaw with a  

!

Warning!  

Breathing asbestos dust is dangerous  

and can cause severe or fatal injury, re-  

spiratory illness or cancer. The use and  

disposal of asbestos containing products  

have been strictly regulated by OSHA  

and the Environmental Protection Agen-  

cy. Do not cut or disturb asbestos, asbe-  

stos containing products (e.g. asbestos  

containing drywall or other construction  

products), or products such as pipes  

which are wrapped or covered with asbe-  

stos insulation. If you have any reason  

to believe that you might be cutting asbe-  

stos, immediately contact your employer  

or a local OSHA representative.  

^!Warning!  

damaged or missing catcher.  

To reduce the risk  

of serious or fatal  

Inspect buffers periodically. Replace  

damaged, broken or excessively worn  

buffers immediately, since they may  

result in loss of control of the saw.  

injury to the opera-  

tor or bystanders,  

never use the saw  

with one hand.  

You cannot control reactive forces and  

you may lose control of the saw, which  

can result in the skating or bouncing of  

the bar and chain along the limb or log.  

A “sponginess” in the feel of the saw,  

increased vibration or increased  

“bottoming” during normal operation  

may indicate damage, breakage or  

excessive wear. Buffers should always  

be replaced in sets. If you have any  

questions as to whether the buffers  

should be replaced, consult your STIHL  

servicing dealer.  

Even for those compact saws designed  

for use in confined spaces, one-handed  

operation is dangerous because the  

operator may lose control.  

The muffler and other parts of the engine  

(

e.g. fins of the cylinder, spark plug)  

become hot during operation and remain  

hot for a while after stopping the engine.  

To reduce risk of burns do not touch the  

muffler and other parts while they are  

!

Warning!  

Take extreme care in wet and freezing  

weather (rain, snow, ice). Put off the  

work when the weather is windy, stormy  

or rainfall is heavy.  

10  

Cutting Instructions  

!

Grip: Always hold the saw firmly with  

both hands when the engine is running.  

Place your left hand on front handle bar  

and your right hand on rear handle and  

throttle trigger. Left-handers should  

follow these instructions too.  

Warning!  

Never touch a chain with your hand or  

any part of your body when the engine is  

running, even when the chain is not  

rotating. The chain continues to rotate  

for a short period after the throttle trigger  

is released.  

Wrap your fingers tightly around the  

handles, keeping the handles cradled  

between your thumb and forefinger.  

With your hands in this position, you can  

best oppose and absorb the push, pull  

and kickback forces of your saw without  

losing control (see section on reactive  

forces). Make sure your chainsaw  

!

Warning!  

Do not cut any material other than wood  

or wooden objects.  

Never work on a ladder, or on any other  

insecure support. Never use the saw  

above shoulder height.  

Use your chainsaw for cutting only.  

It is not designed for prying or shoveling  

away limbs, roots or other objects.  

When sawing, make sure that the saw  

chain does not touch any foreign  

materials such as rocks, fences, nails  

and the like.  

!

Warning!  

handles and grip are in good condition  

and free of moisture, pitch, oil or grease.  

Never work in a tree unless you have  

received specific, professional training  

for such work, are properly secured  

(such as tackle and harness system or a  

!

Such objects may be flung off, damage  

the saw chain or cause the saw to  

kickback.  

Warning!  

lift bucket), have both hands free for  

operating the chainsaw in a cramped  

environment and have taken proper  

precautions to avoid injury from falling  

limbs or branches.  

Do not operate your chainsaw with the  

starting throttle lock engaged. Cutting  

with the starting throttle lock engaged  

does not permit the operator proper  

control of the saw or chain speed.  

!

Warning!  

In order to keep control of your saw,  

always maintain a firm foothold.  

11  

Position the chainsaw in such a way that  

your body is clear of the cutting attach-  

ment whenever the engine is running.  

Stand to the left of cut while bucking.  

powerful force used to cut wood can be  

reversed (and work against the opera-  

tor). If the rotating chain is suddenly  

stopped by contact with any solid object  

like a log or branch or is pinched, the  

reactive forces may occur instantly.  

These reactive forces may result in loss  

of control which may, in turn, cause  

serious or fatal injury. An understanding  

of the causes of these reactive forces  

may helpyou avoid loss of control.  

Don’t put pressure on the saw when  

reaching the end of a cut. The pressure  

may cause the bar and rotating chain to  

pop out of the cut or kerf, go out of  

control and strike the operator or some  

other object. If the rotating chain strikes  

some other object, a reactive force may  

cause the moving chain to strike the  

operator.  

The reaction of the cutting force of the  

chain causes a rotational force on the  

chainsaw in the direction opposite to the  

chain movement. This may fling the bar  

up and back in an uncontrolled arc  

mainly in the plane of the bar. Under  

some cutting circumstances the bar  

moves towards the operator, who may  

suffer severe or fatal injury.  

The most common reactive forces are  

– kickback,  

–

–

pushback,  

pull-in.  

Reactive forces including kickback  

Kickback:  

!

Warning!  

Kickback may occur when  

the moving saw chain  

Reactives forces may occur any time the  

chain is rotating. Reactives forces can  

be dangerous! In any chainsaw, the  

near the upper quadrant of  

the bar nose contacts a  

solid object or is pinched.  

Kickback may occur when the nose of  

the guide bar is pinched unexpectedly,  

unintentionally contacts solid material in  

the wood or is incorrectly used to begin  

a plunge or boring cut.  

12  

It may also occur during limbing.  

a) saws with a displacement of less than angles that may occur in real life cutting  

The greater the force of the kickback  

reaction, the more difficult it becomes for  

the operator to control the saw. Many  

factors influence the occurrence and  

force of the kickback reaction. These  

include chain speed, the speed at which  

the bar and chain contact the object, the  

angle of contact, the condition of the  

chain and other factors.  

3.8 cubic inches  

situations. Compliance with § 5.12 of  

ANSI B 175.1-1991 does not automatic-  

ally mean that in a real life kickback the  

bar and chain will rotate at most 45°.  

–

must, in their original condition,  

meet a 45° computer derived  

kickback angle when equipped with  

certain cutting attachments.  

and must be equipped with at least  

two devices to reduce the risk of  

kickback injury, such as a chain  

brake, low kickback chain, reduced  

kickback bar, etc.  

–

!

Warning!  

In order for powerheads below 3.8 cubic  

inch displacement to comply with the  

computed kickback angle requirements  

of § 5.12 of ANSI B 175.1-1991 use only  

the following cutting attachments:  

The type of bar and saw chain you use  

is an important factor in the occurrence  

and force of the kickback reaction.  

b) saws with a displacement of 3.8 cubic  

inches and above  

–

bar and chain combinations listed as  

complying in the “Specifications”  

section of the Owner’s Manual or  

other replacement bar and chain  

combinations marked in accordance  

with the standard for use on the  

powerhead or  

Some STIHL bar and chain types are  

designed to reduce kickback forces.  

STIHL recommends the use of reduced  

kickback bars and low kickback chains.  

–

must be equipped with at least one  

device designed to reduce the risk  

of kickback injury such as a chain  

brake, low kickback chain, reduced  

kickback bar, etc.  

–

ANSI B 175.1-1991 chainsaw kickback  

standard  

The computer derived angles for saws  

below 3.8 cubic inch displacement are  

measured by applying a computer  

program to test results from a kickback  

test machine.  

–

replacement chain designated  

“low kickback saw chain’’.  

See the section on "Low kickback saw  

chain and reduced kickback bars"  

Section 5.12 of ANSI standard B 175.1–  

1

991, sets certain performance and  

design criteria related to chainsaw  

kickback.  

!

To comply with section 5.12 of ANSI B  

Warning!  

175.1-1991:  

The computer derived angles of § 5.12 of  

ANSI B 175.1-1991 may bear no rela-  

tionship to actual kickback bar rotation  

13  

Devices for reducing the risk of  

kickback injury  

!

Warning!  

Never operate your chainsaw without a  

front hand guard. In a kickback situation  

this guard helps protect your left hand or  

other parts of your body. In addition,  

removal of the hand guard on a saw  

equipped with a chain brake will deactivate  

the chain brake.  

STIHL recommends the use of the STIHL  

Quickstop chain brake on your power-  

head with green labeled reduced kick-  

back bars and low kickback chains.  

!

Warning!  

To reduce the risk of injury, stop using  

the saw immediately if the chain brake  

does not function properly. Take the saw  

to your local STIHL Service Centre! Do  

not use the saw until the problem has  

been rectified (see the section “Chain  

Brake”).  

!

Warning!  

No Quickstop or other chain brake  

device prevents kickback. These devices  

are designed to reduce the risk of  

kickback injury, if activated, in certain  

kickback situations. In order for the  

Quickstop to reduce the risk of kickback  

injury, it must be properly maintained  

and in good working order. See the  

chapter entitled “Chain Brake” and  

“Maintenance, Repair and Storing” of  

your Owner’s Manual. In addition, there  

must be enough distance between the  

bar and the operator to ensure that the  

Quickstop has sufficient time to activate  

and stop the chain before potential  

contact with the operator.  

Quickstop chain brake  

When a kickback occurs, the guide bar  

may rotate around the front handle. If the  

cutting position is such that the operator’s  

left hand is gripping the front handle  

behind the hand guard, and if the left  

hand rotates around the front handle and  

makes a sufficiently forceful contact with  

the front hand guard, which is the Quick-  

stop activating lever, this contact will  

activate the Quickstop. The chain brake  

on most new model STIHL chainsaws  

can also be activated by inertia. See the  

chapter entitled “Chain Brake” of your  

Owner’s Manual.  

STIHL has developed a chain stopping  

system designed to reduce the risk of  

injury in certain kickback situations.  

It is called a Quickstop chain brake.  

The Quickstop is available as standard  

equipment on your STIHL chainsaw and  

is available for installation on most older  

STIHL saws. Ask your dealer to retrofit  

your older model saw with a chain brake.  

14  

reduce the risk of kickback injury. Other  

chains are designed to obtain higher cut-  

ting efficiency or sharpening ease but  

may result in higher kickback tendency.  

Please ask your STlHL dealer to properly  

match your powerhead with the appro-  

priate bar/chain combinations to reduce  

the risk of kickback injury. Green labeled  

bars and chains are recommended for all  

powerheads. See your “STIHL Bar and  

Chain Information” leaflet for details.  

!

Warning!  

An improperly maintained chain brake  

may increase the time needed to stop  

the chain after activation, or may not  

activate at all.  

STIHL has developed a color code  

system to help you identify the STIHL  

reduced kickback bars and low kick-  

back chains. Cutting attachments with  

green warning decals or green labels on  

the packaging are designed to reduce  

the risk of kickback injury. The matching  

of green decaled powerheads under 3.8  

cubic inch displacement with green  

labeled bars and green labeled chains  

gives compliance with the computed  

kickback angle requirements of ANSI B  

!

Warning!  

Never run the chainsaw above idle  

speed for more than 3 seconds when  

the chain brake is engaged or the chain  

is pinched or otherwise caught in the cut.  

Clutch slippage can cause excessive  

heat, leading to severe damage of the  

motor housing, clutch and oiler compo-  

nent and may interfere with the operation  

of the chain brake. If clutch slippage in  

excess of 3 seconds has occured, allow  

the motor housing to cool before pro-  

ceeding and check the operation of your  

chain brake as described in the chapter  

entitled “Chain Brake”. Also make sure  

that the chain is not turning at idle speed  

!

Warning!  

Use of other, non-listed bar/chain combi-  

nations may increase kickback forces  

and increase the risk of kickback injury.  

New bar/chain combinations may be  

developed after publication of this litera-  

ture, which will, in combination with  

certain powerheads, comply with § 5.12  

of ANSI B 175.1-1991. Check with your  

STIHL dealer for such combinations.  

175.1-1991 when the products are in  

their original condition. Products with  

yellow decals or labels are for users with  

extraordinary cutting needs and  

experience and specialized training for  

dealing with kickback.  

!

Warning!  

Reduced kickback bars and low kickback  

chains do not prevent kickback, but they  

are designed to reduce the risk of kick-  

back injury. They are available from your  

STIHL dealer.  

(see above “Important Adjustments”).  

STIHL recommends the use of its  

green labeled reduced kickback bars,  

green labeled low kickback chains  

and a STIHL Quickstop chain brake  

for both experienced and inexpe-  

rienced chainsaw users.  

Low kickback saw chain and reduced  

kickback bars"  

!

STIHL offers a variety of bars and  

Warning!  

chains. STIHL reduced kickback bars  

and low kickback chains are designed to  

Even if your saw is equipped with a  

Quickstop, a reduced kickback bar  

and/or low kickback chain, this does not  

eliminate the risk of injury by kickback.  

Therefore, always observe all safety  

precautions to avoid kickback situations.  

15  

Low kickback chain  

kickback energy. Improper lowering or  

sharpening of the depth gauges or  

shaping of the cutters may increase the  

chance and the potential energy of a  

kickback. Always cut with a properly  

sharpened chain.  

To avoid kickback  

Some types of saw chain have specially  

designed components to reduce the  

force of nose contact kickback. STIHL  

has developed low kickback chain for  

your powerhead.  

The best protection from personal injury  

that may result from kickback is to avoid  

kickback situations:  

1. Hold the chainsaw firmly with both  

hands and maintain a secure grip.  

2. Be aware of the location of the guide  

bar nose at all times.  

“

Low kickback saw chain” is a chain  

Reduced kickback bar  

which has met the kickback performance  

requirements of § 5.12.2.4 of  

STIHL green labeled reduced kickback  

bars are designed to reduce the risk of  

kickback injury when used with STIHL  

green labeled low kickback chains.  

3. Never let the nose of the guide bar  

contact any object. Do not cut limbs  

with the nose of the guide bar.  

Be especially careful when cutting  

small, tough limbs, small size brush  

and saplings which may easily catch  

the chain.  

ANSI B 175.1-1991 (Safety Require-  

ments for Gasoline-Powered Chain-  

Saws) when tested on a selected repre-  

sentative sample of chainsaws below  

3

.8 cubic inch displacement specified in  

!

ANSI B 175.1-1991.  

Warning!  

When used with other, more aggressive  

chains, these bars may be less effective  

in reducing kickback, and may result in  

higher kickback forces.  

4 Don’t overreach.  

5. Don’t cut above shoulder height.  

6. Begin cutting and continue at full  

throttle.  

!

Warning!  

There are potential powerhead and bar  

combinations with which low kickback  

saw chains can be used which have not  

been specifically certified to comply with  

the 45° computer derived kickback angle  

of § 5.12 of ANSI B 175.1-1991.  

7. Cut only one log at a time.  

8. Use extreme caution when reentering  

a previous cut.  

Bow Guides  

9. Do not attempt to plunge cut if you  

are not experienced with these  

cutting techniques.  

!

Warning!  

Some low kickback chains have not  

been tested with all powerhead and bar  

combinations.  

Do not mount a bow guide on any  

STIHL chainsaw.  

10. Be alert for shifting of the log or other  

forces that may cause the cut to  

close and pinch the chain.  

Any chainsaw equipped with a bow  

guide is potentially very dangerous.  

The risk of kickback is increased with a  

bow guide because of the increased  

kickback contact area. Low kickback  

chain will not significantly reduce the risk  

of kickback injury when used on a bow  

guide.  

!

Warning!  

11. Maintain saw chain properly. Cut with  

a correctly sharpened, properly  

tensioned chain at all times.  

12. Stand to the side of the cutting path  

of the chainsaw.  

A dull or improperly sharpened chain  

may reduce or negate the effects of the  

design features intended to reduce  

16  

Cutting Techniques  

Felling  

Felling is cutting down a tree.  

Before felling a tree, consider carefully all  

conditions which may affect the direction  

of fall, including:  

A = Pull-in:  

B = Pushback:  

The intended direction of the fall.  

The natural lean of the tree.  

Pull-in occurs when the chain on the  

bottom of the bar is suddenly stopped  

when it is pinched, caught or encounters  

a foreign object in the wood. The reaction  

of the chain pulls the saw forward and  

may cause the operator to lose control.  

Pushback occurs when the chain on the  

top of the bar is suddenly stopped when  

it is pinched, caught or encounters a  

foreign object in the wood. The reaction  

of the chain drives the saw straight back  

toward the operator and may cause loss  

of saw control. Pushback frequently  

occurs when the top of the bar is used for  

cutting.  

Any unusually heavy limb structure.  

Surrounding trees and obstacles.  

The wind direction and speed.  

Pull-in frequently occurs when the  

bumper spike of the saw is not held  

securely against the tree or limb and  

when the chain is not rotating at full  

speed before it contacts the wood.  

!

To avoid pushback  

Warning!  

Always observe the general condition of  

the tree. Inexperienced users should  

never attempt to cut trees which are  

decayed or rotted inside or which are  

leaning or otherwise under tension.  

1.  

Be alert to forces or situations that  

may cause material to pinch the top  

of the chain.  

!

Warning!  

Use extreme caution when cutting small  

size brush and saplings which may easily  

catch the chain and pull you off balance.  

2. Do not cut more than one log at a time. There is an increased risk that such trees  

could snap or split while being cut and  

3.  

Do not twist the saw when  

withdrawing the bar from a plunge  

cut or underbuck cut because the  

chain can pinch.  

cause serious or fatal injury to the  

operator or bystanders. Also look for  

broken or dead branches which could  

vibrate loose and fall on the operator.  

When felling on a slope, the operator  

should stand on the uphill side if  

possible.  

To avoid pull-in  

1

.

Always start a cut with the chain  

rotating at full speed and the bumper  

spike in contact with the wood.  

2.  

Pull-in may also be prevented by using  

wedges to open the kerf or cut.  

17  

1

1

/

1

2 2  

/

2

1

Felling Instructions:  

When felling, maintain a distance of at  

1

least 2 /  

2

tree lengths from the nearest  

person.  

When felling in the vicinity of roads,  

railways and power lines, etc., take extra  

precautions. Inform the police, utility  

company or railway authority before  

beginning to cut.  

Escape path  

Buttress roots  

!

Warning!  

First clear the tree base and work area  

from interfering limbs and brush and  

clean its lower portion with an ax.  

If the tree has large buttress roots, cut  

into the largest buttress vertically first  

(horizontally next) and remove the  

resulting piece.  

The noise of your engine may drown any  

warning call.  

!

Warning!  

Then, establish two paths of escape (B)  

and remove all obstacles. These paths  

should be generally opposite to the plan-  

ned direction of the fall of the tree (A)  

and about at a 45° angle. Place all  

There are a number of factors that may  

affect and change the intended direction  

of fall, e.g. wind, lean of tree, sloping  

ground, one-sided limb structure, wood  

structure, decay, snow load, etc. To re-  

duce the risk of severe or fatal injury to  

yourself or others, look for these condi-  

tions prior to beginning the cut, and be  

alert for a change in direction during fall.  

tools and equipment a safe distance away  

from the tree, but not on the escape paths.  

18  

Gunning sight  

Conventional cut  

Open-face technique  

When making the felling notch, use the  

gunning sight on the shroud and housing  

to check the required direction of fall:  

A = felling notch - determines the  

A = felling notch - determines the  

direction of the fall  

direction of the fall  

For a conventional cut:  

For an open-face cut:  

Position the saw so that the  

•

gunning sight points exactly in the  

direction you want the tree to fall.  

Properly place felling notch  

Properly place felling notch  

•

•

perpendicular to the Iine of fall,  

close to the ground  

perpendicular to the Iine of falI,  

close to the ground  

Cut down at app. 45-degree angle  

Cut down at app. 50-degree angle  

•

•

to a depth of about 1/5 to 1/4 of the  

trunk diameter  

to a depth of app.1/5 to 1/4 of the  

trunk diameter  

Make second cut horizontal  

Make second cut from below at  

•

•

•

Remove resulting 45-degree piece  

app. 40 degree angle  

•

Remove resulting 90-degree piece  

19  

Making sapwood cuts  

B = Felling cut  

C = Hinge  

Helps control the falling tree  

•

Conventional and open-face technique:  

For medium sized or larger trees  

Begin 1 to 2 inches higher than  

Do not cut through the hinge -  

•

you could lose control of the  

direction of the fall  

•

•

•

•

•

•

•

make cuts at both sides of the trunk,  

center of felling notch  

at same height as subsequent  

Cut horizontalIy towards the felling  

felling cut.  

notch  

1

!

Warning!  

In order to reduce the risk of personal  

injury, never stand directly behind the  

tree when it is about to fall, since part of  

the trunk may split and come back  

towards the operator (barber-chairing),  

or the tree may jump backwards off the  

stump. Always keep to the side of the  

falling tree. When the tree starts to fall,  

withdraw the bar, shut off the engine and  

walk away on the preplanned escape  

path. Watch out for falling limbs.  

Cut to no more than width of guide  

Leave approx. /10 of diameter uncut.  

bar.  

This is the hinge  

Do not cut through the hinge –  

This is especially important in soft  

wood in summer - it helps prevent  

sapwood splintering when the tree  

falls.  

you could lose control of the  

direction of the fall  

Drive wedges into the felling cut where  

necessary to control the fall.  

!

Warning!  

If the tip of the bar contacts a wedge,  

it may cause kickback. Wedges should  

be of wood or plastic – never steel,  

which can damage the chain.  

20  

Felling cut for large diameter trees:  

Avoid repositioning the saw more than  

necessary. When repositioning for the  

next cut, keep the guide bar fully engaged  

in the kerf to keep the felling cut straight.  

If the saw begins to pinch, insert a  

wedge to open the cut. On the last cut,  

do not cut the hinge.  

!

Warning!  

!

Be extremely careful with partially fallen  

trees which are poorly supported.  

When the tree hangs or for some other  

reason does not fall completely, set the  

saw aside and pull the tree down with a  

cable winch, block and tackle or tractor.  

If you try to cut it down with your saw,  

you may be injured.  

Warning!  

Felling a tree that has a diameter greater  

than the length of the guide bar requires  

use of either the sectioning felling cut or  

plunge-cut method. These methods are  

extremely dangerous because they  

involve the use of the nose of the guide  

bar and can result in kickback. Only  

properly trained professionals should  

attempt these techniques.  

Plunge-cut method  

Felling cut for small diameter trees:  

simple fan cut  

Timber having a diameter more than  

twice the length of the guide bar requires  

the use of the plunge-cut method before  

making the felling cut.  

Sectioning method  

Engage the bumper spikes of the chain-  

saw directly behind the location of the  

intended hinge and pivot the saw around  

this point only as far as the hinge. The  

bumper spike rolls against the trunk.  

For the sectioning method make the first  

part of the felling cut with the guide bar  

fanning in toward the hinge. Then, using  

the bumper spike as a pivot, reposition  

the saw for the next cut.  

21  

If you are inexperienced with a chainsaw,  

plunge-cutting should not be attempted.  

Seek the help of a professional.  

Limbing  

Limbing is removing the branches from  

a fallen tree.  

!

Warning!  

First, cut a large, wide felling notch.  

Make a plunge cut in the center of the  

notch.  

There is an extreme danger of kickback  

during the limbing operation. Do not  

work with the nose of the bar. Be extremely  

cautious and avoid contacting the log or  

other limbs with the nose of the guide bar.  

The plunge cut is made with the guide  

bar nose. Begin the plunge cut by  

applying the lower portion of the guide  

bar nose to the tree at an angle. Cut until  

the depth of the kerf is about the same as  

the width of the guide bar. Next, align  

the saw in the direction in which the  

recess is to be cut.  

Do not stand on a log while limbing it –  

you may slip or the log may roll.  

Start limbing by leaving the lower limbs to  

support the log off the ground. When  

underbucking freely hanging limbs,  

a pinch may result or the limb may fall,  

causing loss of control. If a pinch occurs,  

stop the engine and remove the saw,  

by lifting the limb.  

Bucking  

Bucking is cutting a log into sections.  

!

With the saw at full throttle, insert the  

guide bar in the trunk.  

Warnings!  

1. When bucking, do not stand on the  

log. Make sure the log will not roll  

downhill. If on a slope, stand on the  

uphill side of the log.  

Enlarge the plunge cut as shown in  

illustration.  

!

Warning!  

Be extremely cautious when cutting  

limbs or logs under tension (spring poles).  

The limbs or logs could spring back  

toward the operator and cause loss of  

control of the saw and severe or fatal  

injury to the operator.  

Watch out for rolling logs.  

!

Warning!  

There is an extreme danger of kickback  

at this point. Extra caution must be taken  

to maintain control of the saw. To make  

the felling cut, follow the sectioning  

method described previously.  

22  

MAINTENANCE, REPAIR  

AND STORING  

Maintenance, replacement, or repair  

of the emission control devices and  

systems may be performed by any  

nonroad engine repair establishment  

or individual. However if you claim  

warranty for a component which has  

not been serviced or maintained pro-  

perly or if nonapproved replacement  

parts were used, STIHL may deny  

warranty.  

Never operate a chainsaw that is  

damaged, improperly adjusted or not  

completely or securely assembled.  

Follow the maintenance and repair  

instructions in the appropriate section of  

your Owner’s Manual, especially those  

in the chapters “Mounting the Bar and  

Chain”, “Maintaining and Sharpening”  

and “Chain Brake”.  

2

.

.

Cut only one log at a time.  

5. Logs under strain: Risk of pinching!  

Always start relieving cut (1) at  

compression side (A).  

3

Shattered wood should be cut very  

carefully. Sharp slivers of wood  

may be caught and flung in the  

direction of the operator of the saw.  

Then make bucking cut (2) at  

tension side (B).  

!

If the saw pinches, stop the engine  

and remove it from the log.  

Warning!  

Use only STIHL replacement parts for  

maintenance and repair. Use of parts  

manufactured by others may cause  

serious or fatal injury.  

4.  

When cutting small logs, place log  

through “V” - shaped supports on  

top of a sawhorse. Never permit  

another person to hold the log.  

Never hold the log with your leg or  

foot.  

6. Only properly trained professionals  

should work in an area where the  

logs, limbs and roots are tangled.  

Working in blowdown areas is  

extremely hazardous.  

!

Warning!  

Always stop the engine and ensure that  

the chain is stopped before making any  

adjustments, maintenance or repair work,  

7.  

Drag the logs into a clear area before  

cutting. Pull out exposed and cleared  

logs first.  

23  

changing the saw chain or cleaning the  

saw. Do not attempt any maintenance or  

repair work not described in your  

result. If your muffler was equipped with  

a spark-arresting screen to reduce the  

risk of fire (e. g. in the USA, Canada and  

Australia), never operate your saw if the  

screen is missing or damaged. Remem-  

ber that the risk of forest fires is greater  

in hot or dry weather.  

For the proper and effective operation of  

the chain brake the brake band and  

clutch drum must be kept free of dirt,  

grease and other foreign matter which  

may reduce friction of the band on the  

drum.  

Owner’s Manual. Have such work perfor-  

med at your STIHL service shop only.  

!

Warning!  

Never test the ignition system with  

Keep the chain, bar and sprocket clean;  

replace worn sprockets or chains.  

Keep the chain sharp.  

For these reasons, each STIHL chain-  

saw should be returned to trained  

personnel such as your STIHL servicing  

dealer for periodic inspection and  

servicing of the brake system according  

to the following schedule:  

ignition wire terminal removed from spark  

plug or with unseated spark plug, since  

uncontained sparking may cause a fire.  

You can spot a dull chain when easy-to-  

cut wood becomes hard to cut and burn  

marks appear on the wood.  

!

Warning!  

To reduce the risk of fire and burn injury,  

use only spark plugs authorized by  

STIHL. Always press spark plug boot  

snugly onto spark plug terminal of the  

proper size. (Note: If terminal has  

detachable SAE adapter nut, it must be  

attached.) A loose connection between  

spark plug terminal and ignition wire  

connector in the boot may create arcing  

that could ignite combustible fumes and  

cause a fire. Keep spark plug clean, and  

make sure ignition lead is in good  

condition.  

Keep the chain at proper tension. Tighten  

all nuts, bolts and screws except the  

carburetor adjustment screws after each  

use.  

Heavy usage - every three months,  

Moderate usage - twice a year,  

Occasional usage - annually.  

The chainsaw should also be returned  

immediately for maintenance whenever  

the brake system cannot be thoroughly  

cleaned or there is a change in its  

operating characteristics.  

!

Warning!  

In order for the chain brake on your  

STIHL chainsaw to properly perform its  

function of reducing the risk of kickback  

and other injuries, it must be properly  

maintained. Like an automobile brake,  

a chainsaw chain brake incurs wear  

each time it is engaged.  

For any maintenance please refer to the  

maintenance chart and to the warranty  

statement near the end of this manual.  

!

Warning!  

The amount of wear will vary depending  

upon usage, conditions under which the  

saw is used and other factors. Excessive  

wear will reduce the effectiveness of the  

chain brake and can render it inoperable.  

Additionally, the daily maintenance  

schedule for your chainsaw set forth in  

your STIHL Owner’s Manual should be  

strictly followed.  

Do not operate your chainsaw if the  

muffler is damaged, missing or modified.  

An improperly maintained muffler will  

increase the risk of fire and hearing loss.  

Never touch a hot muffler or burn will  

Store chainsaw in a dry place and away  

from children. Before storing for longer  

than a few days, always empty the fuel  

tank (see chapter "Storing the Machine"  

in this manual).  

24  

Mounting the Bar and Chain  

3

6

4

4

5

7

Fit the guide bar over the studs (4) -  

cutting edges on top of bar must  

point to right -  

•

•

1

2

and engage the peg  

of the tensioner slide in  

locating hole (5) -  

place the chain over  

sprocket (6) at the same time -  

Now turn tensioning screw (7)  

clockwise until there is very little  

chain sag on the underside of the  

bar -  

You can run chains of different pitches  

on this chainsaw - depending on the  

chain sprocket (see "Specifications")  

Disengage the chain brake:  

Pull hand guard (3) toward the front  

handle.  

•

and the drive link tangs are located  

in the bar groove.  

Wear work gloves to protect hands  

Fit the chain - start at the bar nose.  

•

The chain pitch must match the guide  

bar. In addition the drive link gauge must  

match the guide bar groove width.  

•

Refit the sprocket cover -  

and screw on the nuts only  

finger-tight.  

•

•

Unscrew nuts and take off  

Tension the chain - see section  

"Tensioning the Saw Chain"  

•

cover -  

Turn tensioning screw (1) counterclock-  

wise until the tensioner slide (2) butts  

against left end of housing slot.  

044  

25  

Tensioning the Saw Chain  

Checking Chain Tension  

Fuel  

This engine is certified to operate on  

unleaded gasoline and oil with the  

mix ratio 50:1.  

Your two-stroke engine requires a  

mixture of brand-name gasoline and  

quality two-stroke engine oil with the  

classification TC.  

1

Use regular branded unleaded gasoline  

with a minimum octane rating of  

Retensioning during cutting work:  

Turn off the engine -  

•

Turn off the engine -  

Wear work gloves.  

90 ROZ (U.S.A./Canada: pump octane  

min. 89!). If the octane number of the  

regular grade gasoline in your area is  

lower, use premium unleaded fuel.  

Fuel with a lower octane rating may  

result in preignition (causing “pinging”)  

which is accompanied by an increase in  

engine temperature. This, in turn,  

increases the risk of piston seizure  

and damage to the engine.  

•

•

and then slacken the nuts.  

Chain must fit snugly against the  

Hold the bar nose up -  

underside of the bar -  

•

and use screwdriver to turn  

tensioning screw (1) clockwise until  

chain fits snugly against  

and, with the chain brake disengaged, it  

must still be possible to pull the chain  

along the bar by hand.  

the underside of the bar -  

while still holding bar nose up,  

tighten down the nuts firmly.  

If necessary, retension the chain.  

•

Go to section "Checking Chain  

A new chain has to be retensioned more  

often than one that has been in use for  

some time.  

•

Tension".  

The chemical composition of the fuel is  

also important. Some fuel additives not  

only detrimentally affect elastomers  

(carburetor diaphragms, oil seals, fuel  

lines etc.), but magnesium castings as  

well. This could cause running problems  

or even damage the engine. For this  

reason it is essential that you use only  

branded fuels!  

Check chain tension frequently -  

•

see section "During Operation".  

Use only STIHL two-stroke engine oil or  

equivalent branded two-stroke air-  

cooled engine oils with the classification  

TC for mixing.  

26  

044  

Fueling  

We recommend STIHL 50:1 two-stroke  

engine oil since it is specially formulated  

for use in STIHL engines.  

Do not use BIA or TCW (two-stroke  

water cooled) mix oils!  

Take care when handling gasoline.  

Avoid direct contact with the skin and  

avoid inhaling fuel vapour  

(see “Safety Precautions”).  

The canister should be kept tightly  

closed in order to avoid any moisture  

getting into the mixture.  

The fuel tank and the canister in which  

fuel mix is stored should be cleaned  

from time to time.  

Fuel mix ages:  

Before fueling, clean the fuel filler cap  

and the area around it to ensure that no  

dirt falls into the tank.  

Change the fuel pick up body every year.  

Only mix sufficient fuel for a few days  

work, not to exceed 3 months of storage.  

Store in approved safety fuel-canisters  

only. When mixing, pour oil into the  

canister first, and then add gasoline.  

Before storing your machine for a long  

period, drain and clean the fuel tank and  

run engine until carburetor is dry.  

Always thoroughly shake the mixture in  

the canister before fueling your machine.  

!

Warning!  

In order to reduce the risk of burns or  

other personal injury from escaping gas  

vapor and fumes, remove the fuel filler  

cap carefully so as to allow any pressure  

build-up in the tank to release slowly.  

Gaso-  

line  

Oil (STIHL 50:1 or  

equivalent branded TC oils)  

US gal.  

US fl.oz  

!

1

2.6  

6.4  

Warning!  

2

5

1/2  

After fueling, tighten fuel cap as  

securely as possible by hand.  

Use a suitable tool (e.g. screwdriver end  

of combination wrench) to tighten  

slotted fuel caps.  

12.8  

Dispose empty mixing-oil canisters only  

at authorized disposal locations.  

044  

27  

Chain lubricant  

Filling Chain Oil  

Tank  

Checking Chain Lubrication  

For automatic and reliable lubrication of  

the chain and guide bar:  

Use only a quality, environmentally  

compatible chain and bar lubricant.  

STIHL chain lubricant with non-fling  

additive or the rapidly biodegradable  

STIHL Bioplus is recommended.  

Important: Biological chain oil must be  

resistant to aging (e.g. STIHL Bioplus)  

since it will otherwise quickly turn to  

resin. This results in hard deposits that  

are difficult to remove, especially in the  

area of the chain drive, clutch and chain.  

It may even cause the oil pump to seize.  

The service life of the chain and guide  

bar depends on the quality of the  

lubricant. It is therefore essential to use  

only a specially formulated chain  

lubricant.  

Thoroughly clean the oil filler cap  

The saw chain must always throw off  

a small amount of oil.  

•

and the area around it to ensure  

that no dirt falls into the tank.  

If special chain lubricant is not available,  

you may - in an emergency - use an HD  

single grade or multigrade engine oil  

with a viscosity that suits the prevailing  

outside temperature.  

Never operate your saw without  

•

Refill the chain oil tank every time  

chain lubrication. If the chain is run  

dry, the whole cutting attachment  

will be irretrievably damaged within  

a very short time.  

•

you refuel.  

There must still be a small amount of oil  

in the oil tank when the fuel tank is  

empty.  

Always check chain lubrication and  

oil level in tank before starting work.  

!

Warning!  

Medical studies have shown that  

renewed contact with waste oil can  

cause skin cancer. Avoid direct contact  

with waste oil. If waste oil does get on  

your skin, wash with soap and water.  

Do not use waste oil for any purpose,  

and dispose of it only at authorized  

disposal locations.  

If the oil tank is still partly full, the reason  

may be a problem in the oil supply  

system:  

Every new chain has to be broken  

•

in for about 2 to 3 minutes.  

Check chain lubrication, clean the  

oil passages, contact your STIHL dealer  

for assistance if necessary.  

After breaking in chain, check chain  

tension and adjust if necessary -  

see section "Checking Chain  

Tension".  

28  

044  

Chain Brake  

The chain brake is also activated by  

the inertia of the front hand guard  

if the kickback force of the saw is high  

enough:  

The hand guard is accelerated toward  

the bar nose - even if your left hand is  

not behind the hand guard, e.g. during  

felling cut.  

The chain brake will operate only if the  

hand guard has not been modified in  

any way.  

Check operation of chain brake  

Before starting work: Run engine at  

idle speed, engage the chain brake  

(

push hand guard toward bar nose).  

Accelerate up to full throttle for no more  

than 3 seconds - the chain must not  

rotate. The hand guard must be free of  

dirt and move freely.  

Locking chain with chain brake  

Releasing the chain brake  

-

-

-

in an emergency  

when starting  

Pull the hand guard back toward  

•

the front handle.  

at idling speed.  

Chain brake maintenance  

Note: Always disengage chain brake  

before accelerating engine and before  

starting cutting work. The only exception  

to this rule is when you check operation  

of the chain brake. High revs with the  

chain brake engaged (chain locked) will  

quickly damage the powerhead and  

chain drive (clutch, chain brake).  

The chain is stopped and locked  

when the hand guard is pushed  

toward the bar nose by the left hand -  

or when brake is activated by inertia  

in certain kickback situations.  

The chain brake is subject to normal  

wear and tear. It must therefore be  

checked and serviced regularly by  

trained personnel (e.g. STIHL dealer) at  

the following intervals:  

•

Full-time professional  

users:  

every 3 months  

every 6 months  

every 12 months  

Semi-professional  

users:  

Occasional  

users:  

044  

29  

Information Before You Start  

Starting  

-

don’t start the engine yet! -  

As soon as engine begins to fire,  

move the Master Control lever to  

“

Warm Start” position n (2):  

STOP  

Choke shutter is open -  

STOP  

throttle trigger is in starting-throttle  

position.  

0

If you leave the Master Control lever  

in the “cold start” position,  

the combustion chamber will flood  

and stall the engine.  

1

0

4

The Master Control lever must be in  

“warm start” position to start a  

warm engine. Also select this  

position if the engine has been  

running but is still cold.  

3

2

1

2

The Master Control lever is locked  

and can only be moved to the “run”  

position (3) after squeezing the  

throttle trigger.  

-

do not use force -  

The four positions of the  

Master Control lever  

Observe safety precautions -  

see section “Safety Precautions”.  

Push hand guard forward (1):  

The chain is now locked -  

•

In the “warm start” position,  

continue cranking after engine  

begins to fire.  

To start the engine, move the lever to  

the “cold start” position l (1) -  

As soon as the engine runs,  

immediately blip the throttle trigger  

so that the Master Control lever  

moves to the “run” position (3).  

Press throttle trigger interlock (2)  

and set Master Control lever to:  

-

do not use force.  

If the Master Control lever is  

in the “run” position # (3):  

Press down the throttle  

for cold start l  

To turn off the engine:  

for warm start n  

trigger interlock and move  

the Master Control downward.  

Move the Master Control lever  

upward to “STOP” position  

$ b (4):  

(even if engine has been running  

but is still cold)  

“Cold Start” position:  

Choke shutter is closed -  

throttle trigger is in starting-throttle  

position.  

The stop contact should engage  

the contact spring -  

this cuts off the ignition system.  

This position is used to start a cold  

engine.  

30  

044  

Place your saw on the ground -  

make sure you have a firm footing -  

check that chain is not touching any  

object or the ground -  

Alternative method of starting:  

Hold the rear handle tightly  

between your legs, just above the  

knees -  

Pull the starter grip slowly with your  

•

right hand until you feel it engage -  

and then give it a brisk strong pull  

and push down the front handle at  

the same time -  

•

•

•

bystanders must be well clear  

of general work area of the saw.  

Hold the front handle firmly with  

your left hand -  

Do not pull out starter rope more  

than 70 cm (about 28 in) - it might  

otherwise break.  

your thumb should be under the  

handle.  

Hold the saw firmly on the ground  

with your left hand on the front  

handle - your thumb should be  

under the handle.  

•

•

Do not let the starter grip snap back  

- guide it slowly and vertically into  

the housing so that the starter rope  

can rewind properly.  

Put your right foot into the rear  

handle and press down.  

If engine is new, pull starter grip  

several times to prime the fuel line.  

044  

31  

STOP  

0

5

Pull the hand guard back toward  

the front handle: =  

Open throttle slightly -  

•

•

•

warm up engine for short period.  

Change over to winter operation if  

necessary - see section “Winter  

Operation”.  

The chain brake is now disengaged  

your saw is ready for operation.  

3

Always disengage chain brake before  

accelerating engine and before starting  

cutting work. High revs with the chain  

brake engaged (chain locked) will quickly  

damage the powerhead and chain drive  

(clutch, chain brake).  

4

If engine doesn’t start:  

If you did not move the Master Control  

lever to “Warm Start” n quickly  

enough after the engine began to fire,  

the combustion chamber has flooded.  

When engine begins to fire:  

Move Master Control lever (3) to n  

and continue cranking -  

•

Observe safety precautions.  

Press the throttle trigger interlock  

•

•

•

•

Always check operation of chain  

and  

as soon as engine runs,  

•

lubrication before starting work.  

Turn off engine:  

set the Master Control lever to l  

immediately blip the throttle  

trigger (4) - the Master Control lever  

“Cold Start”  

Move Master Control lever to b  

Turn the twist lock above the rear  

(

3) will move to the “Run” #  

•

position (5) and the engine settles  

handle counterclockwise -  

slot vertical - and  

At very low outside temperatures:  

down to idle speed.  

Allow engine to warm up  

lift off the carburetor box cover to  

•

As soon as the engine runs:  

the rear.  

As the chain brake is still engaged, the  

engine must be returned to idle speed  

immediately to avoid damage to the  

engine and chain drive (clutch, chain  

brake).  

Blip the throttle trigger to disengage  

•

it from starting throttle position -  

Master Control lever will move to  

normal operating position -  

engine settles down to idle speed.  

Disengage chain brake:  

•

Pull hand guard toward front handle  

-

as shown in illustration.  

32  

044  

Oil Quantity  

Control  

1

2

1

Pull the prefilter (1) upward and out -  

Pull off the spark plug boot (2) -  

Unscrew and dry off the spark plug -  

Set the Master Control lever to b  

Crank the engine several times  

with the starter to clear the  

combustion chamber -  

Different quantities of oil are required for  

different bar lengths, types of wood and  

cutting techniques.  

•

•

•

Use the adjusting screw (1) to vary the  

oil feed rate as required.  

Refit the spark plug and  

Most economic setting -  

•

•

•

•

connect the spark plug terminal -  

reassemble all other parts.  

Set Master Control lever  

turn adjusting screw to "E"  

(Ematic position).  

To increase oil feed -  

•

•

to “Warm Start” n  

turn adjusting screw clockwise.  

even if engine is cold.  

To reduce oil feed -  

Now start the engine.  

turn adjusting screw counter-  

clockwise.  

Fuel tank run until dry and then  

refueled  

Your chain must always be wetted with  

a film of lubricant.  

Pull starter rope several times until  

•

fuel line is primed.  

044  

33  

Taking Care of Guide Bar  

During Break- in Period  

Chain  

type  

Pitch  

3/8"  

Minimum  

groove  

depth  

A factory new machine should not be  

run at high revs (full throttle off load)  

for the first three tank fillings. This avoids  

unnecessary high loads during the  

break-in period.  

Rapid  

6.0 mm (0.24")  

2

If groove depth is less than specified:  

As all moving parts have to bed in  

during the break-in period, the frictional  

resistances in the engine are greater  

during this period. The engine develops  

its maximum power after about 5 to 15  

tank fillings.  

Replace the guide bar.  

The drive link tangs will otherwise  

scrape along the bottom of the  

groove - the cutters and tie straps  

will not ride on the bar rails.  

Do not make the mixture leaner to  

achieve an apparent increase in  

power - this could damage the engine  

- see section "Adjusting Carburetor".  

1

3

Note: Always disengage chain brake  

before accelerating engine and before  

starting cutting work. High revs with the  

chain brake engaged (chain locked) will  

quickly damage the powerhead and  

chain drive (clutch, chain brake).  

Turn the bar over - every time you  

sharpen the chain - and every time  

you replace the chain -  

•

this avoids one-sided wear,  

especially at nose and  

underside of the bar.  

Regularly clean  

= oil inlet hole  

= oilway  

1

2

3

= bar groove.  

Measure groove depth -  

with scale on filing gauge* -  

at nose of Duromatic bars -  

in area used most for cutting  

on Rollomatic bars.  

•

*Special accessory  

34  

044  

During Operation  

After Finishing Work  

Storing the Machine  

Check chain tension frequently.  

A new chain has to be retensioned more  

often than one that has been in use for  

some time.  

Slacken off the chain if you have  

For periods of about 3 months or longer:  

•

retensioned it at operating  

temperature during cutting work.  

Drain and clean the fuel tank in a  

•

•

well ventilated area.  

The chain contracts as it cools down.  

If it is not slackened off, it could damage  

the crankshaft and bearings.  

Run engine until carburetor is dry -  

Chain cold:  

this helps prevent the carburetor  

diaphragms sticking together.  

Tension is correct when chain fits snugly  

against the underside of the bar and can  

still be pulled along the bar by hand.  

Retension if necessary -  

Remove the saw chain and guide  

•

Before storing your saw  

for a long period -  

bar, clean them and protect  

with corrosion inhibiting oil.  

see section "Tensioning the Saw Chain".  

Thoroughly clean the machine -  

•

See chapter "Storing the Machine".  

pay special attention to the  

cylinder fins and air filter.  

•

Chain at operating temperature:  

The chain stretches and begins to sag.  

The drive links must not come out of the  

bar groove - the chain may otherwise  

jump off the bar.  

If you use a biological chain lubri-  

•

cant (e.g. STIHL Bioplus), fill the  

chain oil tank.  

Store the machine in a dry and high  

•

Retension the chain -  

or locked location - out of the  

reach of children and other  

unauthorized persons.  

see section "Tensioning the Saw Chain".  

Always slacken off the chain after  

finishing work.  

The chain contracts as it cools down.  

If it is not slackened off, it can damage  

the crankshaft and bearings.  

After long period  

of full-throttle operation  

Allow engine to run for a short while  

at idle speed so that engine heat can be  

dissipated by flow of cooling air.  

This protects engine-mounted compo-  

nents (ignition, carburetor) from thermal  

overload.  

044  

35  

Air Filter System  

Remove the filter  

Cleaning Standard Filter  

1

When there is a noticeable loss of  

engine power  

Oben  

TOP  

HAUT  

Knock the filter out on the palm of  

2

•

your hand or blow it out with com-  

pressed air from the inside outward.  

In case of stubborn dirt or sticky filter  

fabric:  

Wash the filter in a fresh, non-flam-  

•

mable solution (e.g. warm soapy  

water) and then dry.  

The air filter system can be adapted to  

suit different operating conditions by  

simply installing a choice of filters.  

Undo the knob above the rear  

•

handle in direction of arrow and  

remove the carburetor box cover.  

Do not impregnate standard wire  

•

mesh filter with oil.  

Standard wire mesh filter (1) (green) for  

normal operating conditions and winter  

operation.  

Pull off the filter.  

Always replace a damaged filter  

element.  

•

•

Refit the filter.  

HD filter (2) (black) for dry and very  

dusty work areas.  

Dirty air filters reduce engine power,  

increase fuel consumption and make  

starting more difficult.  

36  

044  

HD Filter*  

2

2

1

1

Clean the felt prefilter (1) when there is a  

In case of stubborn dirt or sticky filter  

fabric:  

Fit the felt prefilter (1) over the  

HD filter (2) - note correct installed  

position (see ilustration)  

•

noticeable loss of engine power  

Wash the filter with STIHL universal  

•

After cleaning felt prefilter several times:  

cleaner or in a clean, non-flammable  

cleaning solution (e.g. warm soapy  

water)  

Install HD filter (with felt prefilter)  

and carburetor box cover.  

Check carburetor setting and  

readjust if necessary.  

•

•

Separate the filter components  

•

Knock out the HD filter (2) and blow  

•

it out with compressed air from the  

inside outward  

Rinse the filter, from the inside  

outward, under a low-pressure  

water jet.  

The felt prefilter helps protect the HD  

filter and thus extends its useful life.  

For this reason the felt prefilter should  

be replaced at more frequent intervals  

than the HD filter.  

Do not use a high-pressure washer.  

Dry all parts of the filter.  

•

Do not expose to high  

temperatures  

Always replace a damaged filter.  

*Special equipment  

044  

37  

Winter Operation  

Electrically Handle  

Heating*  

1

2

At temperatures below +10 °C/+50 °F -  

preheat carburetor as follows:  

At temperatures below -10 °C (+14 °F):  

It is advisable to fit the cover plate* on  

the fan housing if you use your saw in  

extremely cold conditions (temperatures  

below -10 °C/+14 °F, in powder or  

drifting snow).  

Remove the carburetor box cover.  

•

Inside the carburetorbox cover:  

Move shutter (1) from summer  

•

position to winter position (2).  

The cover plate blanks off the lower  

slots in the fan housing to help prevent  

snow being sucked into the machine.  

Heated air is now drawn in from around  

the cylinder and mixed with cold air -  

this helps prevent carburetror icing.  

Switching on electric handle heating*  

When the cover plate is fitted, the  

shutter in the carburetor box cover must  

be moved to the winter position.  

Move switch on front handle to #  

•

•

At temperatures above +20 °C/+70 °F:  

Return shutter to summer position.  

This is essential to avoid engine running  

problems and overheating.  

Move switch back to $  

to switch off heating.  

If your saw is very cold (frost or ice  

•

on machine), start the engine and  

keep it at a high idle speed (with  

chain brake disengaged) until it  

reaches normal operating  

temperature.  

There is no risk of overheating during  

long periods of operation.  

The whole heating system is  

maintenance-free.  

Machines with HD filter:  

Install a standard filter element in  

•

•

place of the HD filter.  

Refit the carburetor box cover and  

tighten down the knob.  

In the event of engine running problems,  

first check that conditions for use  

of intake air preheating still apply.  

*Special accessory  

*Special equipment  

38  

044  

Adjusting Carburetor  

Motor management  

Setting idle speed  

Exhaust emissions are controlled by the  

design of the fundamental engine  

parameters and components  

It is usually necessary to change the  

setting of the idle speed adjusting screw  

(LA) after every correction to the low  

speed adjusting screw (L).  

H

(

e.g. carburetion, ignition, timing and  

L

valve or port timing) without the addition  

of any major hardware.  

H

4

3

/

L

4

Engine stops while idling  

1

/

The carburetor is set at the factory to  

provide an optimum fuel-air mixture  

under all operating conditions.  

Turn the idle speed adjusting  

•

screw (LA) clockwise until  

chain begins to run -  

LA  

then back off the screw one quarter  

of a turn  

It enables your machine to run smoothly,  

be fuel efficient, operate reliably and  

produce low emissions.  

Chain runs when engine is idling  

Standard setting and explanation of  

setting pictograms  

Turn the idle speed adjusting  

•

screw (LA) counterclockwise until  

chain stops running -  

Check the air filter and clean or  

Correction of carburetor setting for  

higher altitudes  

then turn screw another  

•

•

replace it if necessary  

quarter turn in the same direction  

Check the spark arresting screen  

and clean or replace it if necessary  

If the engine runs unsatisfactorily, slight  

readjustment may be necessary:  

Erratic idling behavior,  

poor acceleration  

Turn the high speed adjusting  

H

4

screw (H) counterclockwise up to  

the stop, i.e. 3/4 turn from max.  

lean setting  

•

Check standard setting  

Idle setting is too lean  

3

1

/

warm up the engine  

•

Turn the low speed adjusting  

•

Turn the high speed adjusting  

screw (H) and low speed adjusting  

screw (L) clockwise (leaner) -  

screw (L) counterclockwise -  

no further than stop -  

Turn the low speed adjusting  

L

4

screw (L) clockwise up to the stop  

until engine runs and accelerates  

smoothly -  

/

-

then back off the screw one  

quarter of a turn  

!

Warning!  

If you make the setting too lean, the  

maximum permissible engine speed will  

be exceeded - risk of engine damage.  

044  

39  

Spark Arresting Screen in  

Muffler  

Checking Spark Plug  

4

A

Use only resistor type spark plugs  

of the approved range.  

•

1

Rectify problems which have caused  

fouling of spark plug:  

6

5

Incorrect carburetor setting, too much oil  

in fuel mix, dirty air filter,  

unfavorable running conditions, e.g.  

operating at part load.  

If engine is down on power, check the  

spark arresting screen in the muffler:  

Wrong fuel mix (too much engine oil in  

the gasoline), a dirty air filter and  

Fit a new spark plug after  

•

approx. 100 operating hours -  

or earlier if the electrodes are  

badly eroded.  

Allow muffler to cool down.  

unfavorable running conditions (mostly  

at part throttle etc.) affect the condition of  

the spark plug. These factors cause  

deposits to form on the insulator nose  

which may result in trouble in operation.  

•

Take out the four screws.  

•

Remove the muffler upper  

•

casing (4).  

!Warning!  

Bend back the retaining tabs (5).  

To reduce the risk of fire and burn injury,  

use only spark plugs authorized by  

STIHL (see “Specifications”). Always  

press spark plug boot (2) snugly onto  

spark plug terminal (1) of the proper  

size. (Note: If terminal has detachable  

SAE adapter nut, it must be attached.)  

A loose connection between spark plug  

terminal and ignition wire connector in  

the boot may create arcing that could  

ignite combustible fumes and cause a  

fire.  

•

Pull out the spark arresting screen  

If engine is down on power, difficult to  

start or runs poorly at idling speed,  

first check the spark plug.  

•

(

6).  

Clean spark arresting screen if  

necessary. If screen is damaged or  

coked up, fit a new one.  

•

Remove spark plug -  

•

Refit the spark arresting screen in  

the reverse sequence.  

see chapter “Starting”:  

•

Clean dirty spark plug.  

•

Check electrode gap -  

•

it should be 0.5mm/0.02" (A) -  

readjust if necessary.  

40  

044  

Replacing Starter Rope  

and Rewind Spring  

2

1

3

1

4

4

1

1

5

2

3

4

4

Remove the screws (1) -  

Push the hand guard upward -  

Pull underside of fan housing away  

from crankcase and remove it  

downward.  

Use a screwdriver to pry the rope  

out of the starter grip  

Refit the pawls (4) in the rotor -  

Fit the washer (3) on the starter post  

Use screwdriver or suitable pliers  

to install spring clip (2) on starter  

post and over the pawl pegs -  

the spring clip must point in  

clockwise direction -  

•

•

•

•

•

•

•

•

•

Remove remaining rope from the  

rotor and starter grip  

Thread the new rope through the  

top of the starter grip and then pull  

through the rope guide bush (5).  

Thread the rope through the rotor  

and secure it with a simple  

overhand knot.  

Use screwdriver or suitable pliers  

to carefully remove spring clip (2)  

from the starter post.  

see illustration.  

•

Remove the rope rotor  

•

with washer (3) and pawls (4)  

Tensioning rewind spring  

Coat rope rotor bearing bore with  

non-resinous oil.  

Make a loop in the unwound starter  

•

•

•

rope and use it to turn the rope rotor  

six full revolutions clockwise.  

Slide rotor onto starter post -  

turn it back and forth so that anchor  

loop of rewind spring engages -  

Hold the rotor steady -  

•

Straighten the twisted rope -  

044  

41  

Checking and Replacing  

Chain Sprocket  

6

Release the rotor -  

Replacing a broken rewind spring  

Lubricate the new spring with  

a few drops of non-resinous oil.  

Remove the rope rotor -  

Replace the chain sprocket  

•

•

Let go of rope slowly so that  

it winds onto the rotor.  

•

•

after using two Oilomatic chains  

The starter grip must locate firmly  

in the rope guide bush.  

or sooner if the wear marks on the  

sprocket are deeper than approx.  

0.5 mm (1/64") since this would reduce  

the life of the chain.  

see “Replacing Starter Rope” -  

If the grip droops to one side:  

Add one more turn on rope rotor  

to increase spring tension.  

When starter rope is fully extended  

it must be possible to rotate the rotor  

at least another half turn. If this is  

not possible, the spring is over-  

tensioned and could break.  

Take one turn off the rope.  

Fit the fan housing on the  

crankcase.  

Warning: The bits of spring in the fan  

housing might still be under tension and  

could fly apart when you take them out  

of the housing. To reduce risk of injury,  

wear eye and face protection and work  

gloves.  

Check wear marks:  

Left:  

on webs of rim sprockets  

on teeth of spur sprockets.  

•

•

Right:  

You can use gauge* 0000 893 4101 to  

check the depth of the wear marks on  

spur and rim sprockets.  

Use a screwdriver to carefully pry  

the parts of the spring out of the  

housing.  

•

It is best to use two chains in rotation  

with one sprocket.  

Place the new spring with retaining  

frame in position in the fan housing -  

the anchor loop must engage the  

lug.  

•

Set the Master Control lever to d  

Push the remaining rope into  

the starter grip so that the nipple (6)  

is flush with the grip.  

•

Before removing chain sprocket  

•

Apply suitable tools (screwdriver,  

punch, etc.) to the recesses  

Remove chain sprocket cover,  

chain and guide bar.  

•

•

•

•

(

arrows) and push the spring into  

Disengage the chain brake:  

Pull hand guard toward front handle.  

its seat - it slips out of the retaining  

frame in this process.  

Reinstall the rope rotor, tension the  

rewind spring, fit the fan housing  

and secure in position.  

*

Special accessory  

42  

044  

Ordering Spare Parts  

Please enter your saw model, machine  

number as well as the part numbers of the  

guide bar, saw chain and chain sprocket in  

the spaces provided.  

This will make re-ordering simpler.  

The guide bar, saw chain and chain  

sprocket are subject to normal wear and  

tear. The part numbers of the standard bar,  

chain and sprocket are printed for your  

convenience. When purchasing these  

parts, always quote the saw model, the  

part numbers and names of the parts.  

Rim sprocket  

Spur sprocket  

Use a screwdriver to  

Use a screwdriver to  

remove the E-clip.  

Warranty claims following repairs can be  

accepted only if the repair has been  

remove the E-clip.  

•

•

•

•

•

Take off the washer and rim  

sprocket.  

Pull the washer, spur sprocket and  

needle cage off the crankshaft.  

performed by an authorized STIHL servicing  

dealer using original STlHL spare parts.  

Examine splines on clutch drum -  

if wear marks are severe, fit a new  

clutch drum:  

Original STIHL parts can be identified by  

the STlHL part number, the logo p  

and the STIHL parts symbol (  

The symbol may appear alone on small  

parts.  

Clean the crankshaft stub and  

needle cage, and lubricate with  

STIHL grease  

Pull clutch drum and needle cage  

off the crankshaft - clean the  

(tube 0781 120 1111).  

crankshaft stub and needle cage,  

and lubricate with STlHL grease  

Reassemble with new spur  

sprocket -  

•

Model  

(tube 0781 120 1111).  

After fitting the clutch drum, rotate  

it about one turn to engage  

oil pump drive -  

Machine number  

Guide bar part number  

Chain part number  

Sprocket part number  

Reassemble with new rim sprocket  

and new clutch drum, if necessary -  

fit rim sprocket with cavities facing  

outward -  

refit washer and E-clip on the  

crankshaft.  

•

•

refit washer and E-clip on the  

crankshaft.  

Use only original STIHL chain  

sprockets to ensure correct  

operation of the chain brake.  

Use only original STIHL clutch  

drums to ensure correct operation  

of the chain brake.  

For recommended STIHL reduced kick-  

back cutting attachments see section  

"Specifications" of this Owner’s Manual.  

044  

43  

Maintaining and  

Sharpening Saw Chain  

Correctly sharpened chain  

A

B

A properly sharpened chain slices  

through wood effortlessly and requires  

very little feed pressure.  

3

/8  

Do not work with a dull or damaged  

chain as it will increase the physical  

effort required, produce unsatisfactory  

results and a higher rate of wear.  

The chain pitch (e.g. 3/8) is marked on  

the depth gauge side of each cutter.  

A = Filing angle  

Clean and check your chain  

for cracks in the links and damaged  

rivets -  

B = Side plate angle  

Use only special saw chain files  

Chain type  

Angle (°)  

replace any damaged or worn parts of  

the chain and match the new parts to the  

shape and size of the original parts.  

A

B

Other files have the wrong shape and  

cut.  

Rapid-Micro (RM)  

Rapid-Super (RS)  

Picco-Micro (PM/PMN)  

30  

30  

30  

85  

60  

85  

Important: It is absolutely imperative to  

comply with the angles and dimensions  

specified below. If the saw chain is  

incorrectly sharpened - and in  

particular if the depth gauge is set too  

low - there is a risk of increased  

kickback of the chainsaw, with resulting  

danger of injury.  

Select file diameter according to chain  

pitch - see table at the end of this  

chapter.  

Cutter shapes:  

Micro = Semi-chisel  

Super = Full chisel  

You must observe certain angles when  

resharpening the chain cutters  

Specified angles A and B are  

obtained automatically if recommen-  

ded files or sharpening tools and  

correct settings are used.  

Select the appropriate sharpening  

tools for the chain pitch.  

See “Technical Data” for the permitted  

chain pitches.  

Furthermore, the angles must be the  

same on all cutters.  

If angles are uneven:  

Chain will run roughly, not in a straight  

line, wear quickly and finally break.  

44  

Avoid touching the tie straps and  

drive links with the file.  

•

•

Rotate the file at regular intervals  

while filing -  

this avoids one-sided wear.  

Use a piece of hardwood to remove  

burrs from cutting edge.  

90°  

•

•

Check angles with the filing gauge.  

As these requirements can be met only  

after sufficient and constant practice:  

File correctly  

All cutters must be the same length  

If you use a file holder or the FG 1:  

Leave the chain on the bar.  

Clamp the bar in a vise if necessary.  

Lock the chain - push hand guard  

forward  

If the cutters are not the same length,  

they will have different heights. This  

makes the chain run roughly and can  

cause it to break.  

•

Use a file holder.*  

•

A file holder must be used for manual  

resharpening of Super chain. The correct  

filing angle is marked on the file holder.  

•

To rotate the chain - pull hand  

guard against front handle  

Sharpen chain frequently, take  

away as little metal as possible -  

two or three strokes of the file are  

usually enough  

Find the shortest cutter and then file all  

other cutters back to the same length.  

This can be very time consuming - it is  

best to have it done in the workshop on  

an electric grinder.  

•

•

90°  

8

5° 70° 60°  

80°  

Always file from the inside to the  

outside of the cutter.  

•

•

30°  

35°  

10°  

0°  

The file only sharpens on the  

forward stroke -  

lift the file off the cutter on the back-  

stroke.  

For checking angles  

Hold the file horizontally for all  

chain types (at right angle to side of  

guide bar) and file according to the  

angles marked on the filing tool.  

•

STlHL filing gauge* (see table)  

A universal tool for checking the filing  

and side plate angles, depth gauge  

setting and cutter length. Also cleans the  

guide bar groove and oil inlet hole.  

*

Special accessory  

4

5

Chain  

pitch  

Depth gauge  

distance “a”  

a

Inch  

(mm)  

mm  

(Inch)  

1

3

3

0

3

0

/4  

(6.35)  

(9.32)  

0.65  

0.65  

0.45  

0.65  

0.65  

0.80  

(0.026)  

(0.018)  

(0.026)  

(0.026)  

(0.026)  

(0.031)  

/8-PM  

/8-PMN (9.32)  

.325  

/8  

(8.25)  

(9.32)  

(10.26)  

.404  

Depth gauge setting  

Round off depth gauges parallel to the  

stamped marking.  

This setting may be increased by 0.2 mm  

The depth gauge determines the height  

at which the cutter enters the wood and  

thus the thickness of the chip removed.  

(

0.008") for cutting softwood in mild  

weather season - no frost.  

After sharpening  

Clean the chain thoroughly, remove  

filings or grinding dust - lubricate the  

chain by immersing it in an oil bath.  

Lowering depth gauges  

Distance between depth gauge and  

cutting edge = a:  

The depth gauge setting is reduced  

when the chain is sharpened. Use filing  

gauge to check the setting every time  

you sharpen the chain and, if necessary,  

lower the depth gauge with a flat or  

triangular file so that it is level with the  

filing gauge.  

Before long out-of-service period  

Clean the chain with a brush and  

immerse it in an oil bath.  

Sharpening tools  

Chain pitch  

Inch (mm)  

Round file Ø Round file  

mm (Inch) Part No.  

File holder  

Part No.  

Filing gauge  

Part No.  

Flat file  

Sharpening kit*  

Part No.  

Part No.  

1

3

3

0

3

0

/4  

(6.35)  

4.0 (5/32) 5605 772 4006  

4.0 (5/32) 5605 772 4006  

4.0 (5/32) 5605 772 4006  

4.8 (3/16) 5605 772 4806  

5.2 (13/64) 5605 772 5206  

5605 750 4327  

5605 750 4327  

5605 750 4327  

5605 750 4328  

5605 750 4329  

5605 750 4330  

1110 893 4000  

0000 893 4000  

1110 893 4000  

1110 893 4000  

1110 893 4000  

1106 893 4000  

0814 353 3356  

0814 353 3356  

0814 353 3356  

0814 353 3356  

0814 353 3356  

0814 353 3356  

5605 007 1027  

5605 007 1026  

5605 007 1027  

5605 007 1028  

5605 007 1029  

5605 007 1030  

/8 PMN (9.32)  

/8 P  

.325  

/8  

(9.32)  

(8.25)  

(9.32)  

.404  

(10.26) 5.5 (7/32) 5605 772 5506  

*

consisting of file holder with round file, flat file and filing gauge.  

46  

Maintenance Chart  

Please note that the following maintenance intervals apply for normal operating  

conditions only. If your daily working time is longer than normal or cutting conditions are difficult  

(very dusty work area tropical wood etc.) shorten the specified intervals accordingly.  

Visual inspection (condition leaks)  

Clean  

Check operation  

x

x

Complete machine  

x

Throttle trigger , trigger interlock,  

Master Control  

x

x

x

x

Check operation  

29  

29  

27  

Chain brake  

Check by STIHL dealer  

x

x

Check  

x

x

Filter in fuel tank  

Clean, Replace filter element  

x

Replace  

x

Fuel tank  

Clean  

x

x

26  

28  

Chain oil tank  

Chain lubrication  

Clean  

Check  

x

x

x

Inspect, also check sharpness  

x

x

Saw chain  

Check chain tension  

26, 35  

44  

Sharpen  

x

Check (wear, damage)  

x

34  

Guide bar  

Clean and turn over  

x

x

x

x

Deburr  

Replace  

x

x

x

x

Chain sprocket  

Air filter  

Check  

x

42  

36  

36  

Clean  

x

x

Replace  

Cooling inlets  

Cylinder fins  

Clean  

x

Clean  

x

Check idle adjustment – chain must not turn  

Readjust idle  

x

39  

39  

38  

Carburetor  

x

x

Spark plug  

Readjust electrode gap  

x

All accessible screws and nuts  

Retighten  

(

not adjusting screws)*  

Rubber vibration buffers  

Have replaced by STIHL dealer  

x

x

Inspect  

Spark arresting screen in muffler  

Clean or replace  

Check  

x

x

x

x

Chain catcher  

Replace  

*

Tighten down the cylinder base screws firmly after the first 10 to 20 hours of operation.  

044  

47  

Specifications  

Engine  

Cutting Attachment  

STIHL yellow-labeled bars:  

Recommended cutting attachments  

for compliance with § 5.12 of ANSI  

Standard B 175.1-1991  

for 3/8" pitch:  

STIHL single cylinder two-stroke  

engine  

Rollomatic “S” with sprocket nose  

40, 45, 50, 63, 70, 75, 80 or 90 cm  

(16, 18, 20, 24, 28, 30, 32 or 36 in)  

Duromatic with stellite tipped nose  

40, 45, 50 or 63 cm (16, 18, 20 or 24 in)  

(see page 15 of this Manual):  

3

Displacement:  

Bore:  

70.7 cm (4.31 cu.in)  

50 mm (1.97 in)  

36 mm (1.42 in)  

2,500 r.p.m.  

STIHL reduced kickback bar  

(with green label) for 3/8" pitch:  

Rollomatic with sprocket nose  

40, 45 or 50 cm (16, 18 or 20 in)  

Stroke:  

Idle speed:  

Maximum engine  

speed  

STIHL yellow-labeled chains:  

for 3/8" pitch:  

Topic-Micro (36 TM),  

(cut-off speed): 13,500 rpm  

STIHL low kickback chain*  

Topic-Super (33 TS, 36 TS),  

Rapid-Micro (33 RM, 36 RM, 33 RMF),  

Rapid-Super (33 RS, 33 RS 1, 36 RS,  

36 RS 1, 33 RSL, 36 RSL, 33 RSF,  

33 RSLF, 36 RSLF, 36 RSLH).  

(

with green label) for 3/8" pitch:  

9

.32 mm (3/8") Rapid-Micro 2  

Ignition System  

(33 RM 2, 36 RM 2)  

Type:  

Chain sprocket:  

Electronic magneto ignition (breakerless)  

Spark plug (suppressed):  

7-tooth for 3/8" pitch spur sprocket  

Chain sprocket: 8-tooth 3/8" rim sprocket  

In order to comply with the kickback  

performance requirements of § 5.12  

of ANSI Standard B 175.1-1991,  

Bosch WSR 6 F or NGK BPMR 7 A  

Heat range 200  

Electrode gap 0.5 mm (0.02 in)  

Spark plug thread: M 14x1.25; 9.5 mm  

*See definition of “low kickback chain”  

on page 15.  

do not use replacement saw chain  

unless it has been designated as  

(0.37 in) long  

meeting the ANSI § 5.12 requirements  

on this specific powerhead, or has been  

designated as “low kickback” saw chain*  

in accordance with the ANSI B 175.1-  

Fuel/Oil System  

Carburetor: All position diaphragm  

carburetor with integral fuel pump  

Air filter: Prefilter and bisectional boxfilter  

Special accessory:  

1991 standard.  

*

See definition of “low kickback chain” on  

Heavy-duty (HD)-airfilter  

page 15 of this Manual.  

Fuel mix: See chapter “Fuel”  

Fuel tank capacity: 0.8 l (1.69 US pt)  

Oil tank capacity: 0.33 l (0.7 US pt)  

Since new bar/chain combinations may  

be developed after publication of this  

Manual, ask your STIHL dealer for the  

latest STIHL recommendations.  

Other bars and chains available for this  

powerhead are:  

Weight  

without bar and chain  

0

44:  

5.9 kg (13 lb)  

0

44/W with electrically  

heated handles:  

6.1 kg (13.4 lb)  

48  

044  

STIHL Incorporated Federal Emission Control Warranty Statement  

Your Warranty Rights  

and Obligations  

you, including diagnosis (if the  

As the small off-road equipment engine  

owner, you should be aware, however,  

that STIHL Incorporated may deny you  

warranty coverage if your small off-road  

equipment engine or a part has failed  

due to abuse, neglect, improper mainte-  

nance or unapproved modifications.  

diagnostic work is performed at an  

authorized dealer), parts, and labor.  

The U.S. Environmental Protection  

Agency (EPA) and STIHL Incorporated  

are pleased to explain the Emission  

Control System Warranty on your equip-  

ment type engine. In the U.S. new 1997  

and later model year small off-road  

Manufacturer’s Warranty Coverage:  

In the U.S., 1997 and later model year  

small off-road equipment engines are  

warranted for two years. If any emission-  

related part on your engine is defective,  

the part will be repaired or replaced by  

STIHL Incorporated free of charge.  

You are responsible for presenting your  

small off-road equipment engine to a  

STIHL service center as soon as a  

problem exists. The warranty repairs will  

be completed in a reasonable amount of  

time, not to exceed 30 days.  

equipment engines must be designed,  

built and equipped, at the time of sale, to  

meet the U.S. EPA regulations for small  

non road engines. The equipment engine  

must be free from defects in materials  

and workmanship which cause it to fail  

to conform with U.S. EPA standards for  

the first two years of engine use from the  

date of sale to the ultimate purchaser.  

Owner’s Warranty Responsibilities:  

If you have any questions regarding  

your warranty rights and responsibilities,  

please contact a STIHL customer  

service representative at 1-800-467-  

8445 or you can write to  

As the small off-road equipment engine  

owner, you are responsible for the  

performance of the required mainte-  

nance listed in your owner’s manual.  

STIHL Incorporated recommends that  

you retain all receipts covering mainte-  

nance on your small off-road equipment  

engine, but STIHL Incorporated cannot  

deny warranty solely for the lack of  

receipts or for your failure to ensure the  

performance of all scheduled mainte-  

nance.  

STIHL Incorporated must warrant the  

emission control system on your small  

off-road engine for the period of time  

listed below provided there has been no  

abuse, neglect or improper maintenance  

of your small off-road equipment engine.  

STIHL Inc.,  

536 Viking Drive, P.O. Box 2015,  

Virginia Beach, VA 23450-2015.  

Your emission control system includes  

parts such as the carburetor and the  

ignition system. Also included may be  

hoses, and connectors and other  

emission related assemblies.  

Coverage by STIHL Incorporated  

STIHL Incorporated warrants to the  

ultimate purchaser and each subse-  

quent purchaser that your small off-road  

equipment engine will be designed, built  

and equipped, at the time of sale, to  

meet all applicable regulations. STIHL  

Incorporated also warrants to the initial  

purchaser and each subsequent  

Any replacement part or service that is  

equivalent in performance and durability  

may be used in non-warranty mainte-  

nance or repairs, and shall not reduce  

the warranty obligations of the engine  

manufacturer.  

Where a warrantable condition exists,  

STIHL Incorporated will repair your small  

off-road equipment engine at no cost to  

044  

49  

purchaser that your engine is free from  

defects in materials and workmanship  

which cause the engine to fail to conform  

with applicable regulations for a period  

of two years.  

Mechanical diagnostic work will be  

performed at an authorized STIHL  

servicing dealer. Emission test may be  

performed either at STIHL Incorporated  

or at any independent test laboratory.  

Where to make a claim for Warranty  

Service  

Bring the product to any authorized  

STIHL servicing dealer and present the  

signed warranty card.  

Maintenance Requirements  

Warranty Period  

Warranty Work  

The maintenance instructions in this  

manual are based on the application of  

the recommended 2-stroke fuel-oil  

mixture (see also instruction "Fuel").  

Deviations from this recommendation  

regarding quality and mixing ratio of fuel  

and oil may require shorter maintenance  

intervals.  

The warranty period will begin on the  

date the utility equipment engine is  

purchased by the initial purchaser and  

you have signed and sent back the  

warranty card to STIHL. If any emission  

related part on your engine is defective,  

the part will be replaced by STIHL  

Incorporated at no cost to the owner.  

Any warranted part which is not  

STIHL Incorporated shall remedy  

warranty defects at any authorized  

STIHL servicing dealer or warranty  

station. Any such work shall be free of  

charge to the owner if it is determined  

that a warranted part is defective. Any  

manufacturer-approved or equivalent  

replacement part may be used for any  

warranty maintenance or repairs on  

emission-related parts and must be  

provided without charge to the owner.  

STIHL Incorporated is liable for damages  

to other engine components caused by  

the failure of a warranted part still under  

warranty.  

Limitations  

scheduled for replacement as required  

maintenance, or which is scheduled only  

for regular inspection to the effect of  

This Emission Control Systems Warranty  

shall not cover any of the following:  

"

repair or replace as necessary" will be  

- repair or replacement required  

because of misuse, neglect or lack of  

required maintenance,  

warranted for the warranty period. Any  

warranted part which is scheduled for  

replacement as required maintenance  

will be warranted for the period of time  

up to the first scheduled replacement  

point for that part.  

The following list specifically defines the  

emission-related warranted parts:  

- repairs improperly performed or  

replacements not conforming to  

STIHL Incorporated specifications that  

adversely affect performance and/or  

durability, and alterations or  

Carburetor  

Choke (Cold start enrichment system)  

Intake manifold  

Diagnosis  

modifications not recommended or  

approved in writing by STIHL  

Incorporated,  

You, as the owner, shall not be charged  

for diagnostic labor which leads to the  

determination that a warranted part is  

defective. However, if you claim warranty  

for a component and the machine is  

tested as non-defective, STIHL  

Incorporated will charge you for the cost  

of the emission test.  

Air filter  

Spark plug  

Magneto or electronic ignition system  

(ignition module)  

and  

Catalytic converter (if applicable)  

Fasteners  

- replacement of parts and other  

services and adjustments necessary  

for required maintenance at and after  

the first scheduled replacement point.  

50  

044  

Continuation of Important Safety Precautions  

4

. Use caution when handling fuel.  

Move the chainsaw at least  

10. Do not operate a chainsaw that  

is damaged, improperly  

Manual maintenance instruc-  

tions, should be performed by  

competent chainsaw service  

personnel.  

1

0 feet (3 m) from the fueling  

adjusted, or not completely and  

securely assembled. Be sure  

that the saw chain stops  

point before starting the engine.  

(For example, if improper tools  

are used to remove the  

5

. Do not allow other persons to  

be near the chainsaw when  

starting or cutting with the  

chainsaw. Keep bystanders  

and animals out of the work  

area.  

moving when the throttle trigger  

is released.  

flywheel or if an improper tool  

is used to hold the flywheel in  

order to remove the clutch,  

structural damage to the  

flywheel could occur and could  

be subsequently cause the  

flywheel to burst).  

11. Shut off the engine before  

setting the chainsaw down.  

1

2. Use extreme caution when  

cutting small size brush and  

saplings because slender mate-  

rial may catch the saw chain  

and be whipped toward you or  

pull you off balance.  

6

. Do not start cutting until you  

have a clear work area, secure  

footing, and a planned retreat  

path from the falling tree.  

18. When transporting your chain-  

saw, use the appropriate chain  

guard (scabbard).  

7

8

9

. Keep all parts of your body  

away from the saw chain when  

the engine is running.  

13. When cutting a limb that is  

under tension be alert for  

Other important safety precautions  

are contained in the body of the  

Owner’s Manual.  

springback so that you will not  

be struck when the tension in  

the wood fibers is released.  

. Before you start the engine,  

make sure that the saw chain  

is not contacting anything.  

Note:  

1

4. Keep the handles dry, clean,  

. Carry the chainsaw with the  

engine stopped, the guide bar  

and saw chain to the rear, and  

the muffler away from your  

body.  

and free of oil or fuel mixture.  

When using a chainsaw for logging  

purposes, refer to the Code of  

Federal Regulations, Parts 1910  

and 1928.  

15. Operate the chainsaw only in  

well-ventilated areas.  

1

6. Do not operate a chainsaw in a  

tree unless you have been  

specifically trained to do so.  

17. All chainsaw service, other than  

the items listed in the Owner’s