STIHL MS 210, 230, 250 - Instruction Manual - Fire And Saw

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STIHL MS 210, 230, 250   Instruction Manual
English

                                                               Contents

                                                               Guide to Using this Manual           2   Engine Running Behavior                                   40        Dear Customer,
                                                               Safety Precautions                   3   Storing the Machine                                       41        Thank you for choosing a quality
                                                               Reactive Forces                      8   Checking and Replacing the Chain                                    engineered STIHL product.
                                                                                                        Sprocket                                                  41
Original Instruction Manual

                                                               Working Techniques                   9                                                                       It has been built using modern
                                                               Cutting Attachment                  18   Maintaining and Sharpening the                                      production techniques and
                                                                                                        Saw Chain                                                 42        comprehensive quality assurance.
                                                               Mounting the Bar and Chain (side
                                                                                                        Maintenance and Care                                      46        Every effort has been made to ensure
                                                               chain tensioner)                    18
                                                                                                                                                                            your satisfaction and trouble-free use of
                                                               Mounting the Bar and Chain (front        Minimize Wear and Avoid Damage                            48
                                                                                                                                                                            the product.
                                                               chain tensioner)                    19   Main Parts                                                49
                                                                                                                                                                            Please contact your dealer or our sales
                                                               Mounting the Bar and Chain (quick        Specifications                                            50
                                                                                                                                                                            company if you have any queries
                                                               chain tensioner)                    20   Ordering Spare Parts                                      52
Printing inks contain vegetable oils, paper can be recycled.

                                                                                                                                                                            concerning this product.
                                                               Tensioning the Saw Chain (side           Maintenance and Repairs                                   52
                                                               chain tensioner)                    22                                                                       Your
                                                                                                        Disposal                                                  53
                                                               Tensioning the Saw Chain (front
                                                                                                        EC Declaration of Conformity                              53
                                                               chain tensioner)                    23
                                                               Tensioning the Saw Chain (quick
                                                               chain tensioner)                    23
Printed on chlorine-free paper

                                                               Checking Chain Tension              23                                                                       Dr. Nikolas Stihl
                                                               Fuel                                24
                                                               Fueling                             25
                                                               Chain Lubricant                     28
                                                               Filling Chain Oil Tank              28
                                                               Checking Chain Lubrication          29
                                                               Chain Brake                         29
                                                               Winter Operation                    30
                                                               Starting / Stopping the Engine      31
                                                               Operating Instructions              35
© ANDREAS STIHL AG & Co. KG, 2019

                                                               Taking Care of the Guide Bar        36
                                                               Air Filter System                   37
0458-208-0121-A. VA4.H19.

                                                               Cleaning the Air Filter             37
0000000334_027_GB

                                                               Adjusting the Carburetor            38
                                                               Spark Plug                          39

                                                                                                        This instruction manual is protected by copyright. All rights reserved, especially the rights to reproduce, translate and process
                                                                                                        with electronic systems.

                                                               MS 210, MS 210 C, MS 230, MS 230 C, MS 250, MS 250 C                                                                                                                    1
English

                                                          Intake air baffle: winter   Engineering improvements
Guide to Using this Manual                                operation
                                                                                      STIHL's philosophy is to continually
This Instruction Manual refers to a                                                   improve all of its products. For this
                                                          Intake air baffle: summer
STIHL chain saw, also called a machine                                                reason we may modify the design,
                                                          operation
in this Instruction Manual.                                                           engineering and appearance of our
                                                                                      products periodically.
Pictograms                                                Handle heating              Therefore, some changes, modifications
                                                                                      and improvements may not be covered
Pictograms that appear on the machine                                                 in this manual.
are explained in this Instruction Manual.
                                                          Actuate decompression
Depending on the machine and                              valve
equipment version, the following
pictograms may appear on the machine.
              Fuel tank; fuel mixture of                  Actuate manual fuel
              gasoline and engine oil                     pump

              Tank for chain oil; chain
              oil
                                            Symbols in text

              Engage and release
              chain brake
                                                 WARNING
                                            Warning where there is a risk of an
              Coasting brake                accident or personal injury or serious
                                            damage to property.

              Direction of chain travel          NOTICE
                                            Caution where there is a risk of
                                            damaging the machine or its individual
                                            components.
              Ematic; chain oil flow
              adjustment

              Tension saw chain

2                                                                    MS 210, MS 210 C, MS 230, MS 230 C, MS 250, MS 250 C
English

                                             Do not lend or rent your chain saw           Clothing and Equipment
Safety Precautions                           without the instruction manual. Be sure
                                             that anyone using it understands the
                                             information contained in this manual.        Wear proper protective clothing and
               Special safety precau-                                                     equipment.
               tions must be observed to     To operate a chain saw you must be
               reduce the risk of per-       rested, in good physical condition and                     Clothing must be sturdy
               sonal injury when             mental health. If you have any condition                   and snug-fitting, but allow
               working with a chain saw      that might be aggravated by strenuous                      complete freedom of
               because of the very high      work, check with your doctor before                        movement. Wear snug
               chain speed and very          operating a chain saw.                                     fitting clothing with cut-
               sharp cutters.                                                                           retardant pads – no
                                             Do not operate the chain saw if you are                    loose-fitting jacket.
               It is important that you      under the influence of any substance
                                             (drugs, alcohol) which might impair          Avoid clothing that could get caught on
               read the instruction man-
                                             vision, dexterity or judgment.               branches, brush or moving parts of the
               ual before first use and
                                                                                          machine. Do not wear a scarf, necktie or
               keep it in a safe place for   To reduce the risk of accidents or injury,   jewellery. Tie up and confine long hair
               future reference. Non-        put off the work in poor weather             (headscarf, cap, hard hat, etc.).
               observance of the             conditions (rain, snow, ice, wind).
               instruction manual may                                                                   Wear suitable safety
               result in serious or even     Persons with pacemakers only: The                          shoes – with cut-retard-
               fatal injury.                 ignition system of your chain saw                          ant material, non-slip
                                             produces an electromagnetic field of a                     soles and steel toe caps.
General                                      very low intensity. This field may
                                             interfere with some pacemakers. To
                                             reduce health risks, STIHL recommends
Observe all applicable local safety          that persons with pacemakers consult              WARNING
regulations, standards and ordinances.       their physician and the pacemaker                          To reduce the risk of eye
The use of noise emitting power tools        manufacturer before operating this                         injuries, wear tight-fitting
may be restricted to certain times by        power tool.                                                safety goggles conform-
national or local regulations.                                                                          ing to standard EN 166 or
                                             Intended use                                               a face shield. Make sure
If you have not used this model before:
                                                                                                        that the safety goggles
Have your dealer or other experienced
                                             The machine may only be used to saw                        and the face shield fit
user show you how to operate your
                                             wood and wooden objects.                                   correctly.
machine or attend a special course in its
operation.                                   Do not use the machine for any other         Wear "personal" hearing protection – for
Minors should never be allowed to use a      purpose – risk of accidents!                 example, ear defenders.
chain saw.                                   Do not modify the machine in any way –       Wear a hard hat wherever there is any
Keep bystanders, especially children,        this may increase the risk of personal       risk of falling objects.
and animals away from the work area.         injury. STIHL excludes all liability for
                                             personal injury and damage to property
The user is responsible for avoiding
                                             caused while using unauthorised
injury to third parties or damage to their
                                             attachments.
property.

MS 210, MS 210 C, MS 230, MS 230 C, MS 250, MS 250 C                                                                              3
English

              Wear sturdy protective                    Clean the dust and dirt off the machine –       Open the fuel filler cap carefully so that
              gloves made of a resist-                  do not use any grease solvents for this         any excess pressure is relieved
              ant material (e.g.                        purpose.                                        gradually and fuel does not splash out.
              leather).                                 Clean the ventilation slots if necessary.       The machine may only be refuelled in a
                                                                                                        well ventilated place. Clean the machine
                                                        Do not use a high-pressure cleaner to
STIHL can supply a comprehensive                                                                        immediately if fuel is spilled. Do not spill
                                                        clean the machine. The hard jet of water
range of personal protective equipment.                                                                 fuel over your clothing – contaminated
                                                        can damage parts of the machine.
                                                                                                        clothing must be changed immediately.
Transport                                               Accessories                                     The machines can be equipped with the
                                                                                                        following filler caps as standard:
Before any transport – even over short                  Only use those tools, guide bars, chains,       Cliplock filler cap (bayonet-type)
distances – switch off the machine,                     chain sprockets, accessories or
engage the chain brake and attach the                                                                                  Place the cliplock filler
                                                        technically equivalent components that                         cap (bayonet-type) in
chain scabbard. This avoids the risk of                 have been approved by STIHL for this
the saw chain starting unintentionally.                                                                                position, turn as far as
                                                        machine. If you have any questions in                          stop and fold the cliplock
                                                        this respect, consult a servicing dealer.                      down.
                                                        Use only high quality tools and
                                                        accessories. Otherwise, there may be a          This helps reduce the risk of unit
                                                        risk of accidents and damage to the             vibrations causing an incorrectly
                                                        machine.                                        tightened filler cap to loosen or come off
                                                                                                        and spill quantities of fuel.
                                                        STIHL recommends the use of genuine
                                          001BA115 KN

                                                        STIHL tools, guide bars, chains, chain                         Look out for leaks! Never
                                                        sprockets and accessories. They are                            start the engine if fuel has
                                                        specifically designed to match your                            been spilled or is leaking
Always carry the chain saw by the                       model and meet your performance                                – Fatal burns may result!
handle – with the hot muffler away from                 requirements.
your body, the guide bar must point to
the rear. Avoid touching hot parts of the               Refuelling                                      Before Starting Work
machine, especially the surface of the
muffler – risk of burns!
                                                                        Gasoline is an extremely        Check that your saw is properly
In vehicles: Properly secure the machine                                flammable fuel – keep           assembled and in good condition – refer
to prevent tipping, damage and chain oil                                clear of naked flames and       to appropriate chapters in the instruction
or fuel spillage.                                                       fire – do not spill any fuel    manual.
                                                                        – no smoking.                   –   Check the fuel system for leaks,
Cleaning                                                                                                    paying special attention to visible
                                                        Switch off the engine before refuelling.
                                                                                                            parts such as the tank cap, hose
                                                        Never refuel the machine while the                  connections and the manual fuel
Clean plastic parts with a cloth. Harsh                 engine is still hot – the fuel may spill over
detergents can damage the plastic.                                                                          pump (on machines so equipped). If
                                                        – risk of fire!

4                                                                                  MS 210, MS 210 C, MS 230, MS 230 C, MS 250, MS 250 C
English

    there are any leaks or damage, do        Your chain saw is a one-person saw. Do                  Never let the machine run unattended.
    not start the engine – risk of fire.     not allow other persons to be in the
                                                                                                     Exercise caution with slippery surfaces,
    Have your saw repaired by a              working area – not even while starting.
                                                                                                     water, snow, ice, steep slopes, uneven
    servicing dealer before using it
                                             Do not start the chain saw if the chain is              ground or green wood that has just been
    again.
                                             in a cut.                                               stripped of its bark – danger of slipping!
–   Check operation of chain brake,
                                             Move at least 3 meters away from the                    Use caution with tree stumps, roots,
    front hand guard
                                             place where the machine was refuelled                   ditches – danger of stumbling!
–   Correctly mounted guide bar              and never start the motor in enclosed
                                                                                                     Do not work alone – keep within calling
                                             spaces.
–   Correctly tensioned chain                                                                        distance of others who are trained in
                                             Lock the chain with the chain brake                     emergency procedures and can provide
–   The trigger and trigger lockout must
                                             before starting – risk of injury due to                 help in an emergency. Helpers at the
    move freely and spring back to the
                                             rotating chain!                                         cutting site must also wear protective
    idle position when they are
                                                                                                     clothing (helmet!) and stand well clear of
    released.                                Do not drop-start the engine – start as
                                                                                                     the branches being cut.
                                             described in the Instruction Manual.
–   Master Control lever must move
                                                                                                     More care and attention than usual are
    easily to STOP, 0 or †
                                             During operation                                        required when wearing ear protection,
–   Check that the spark plug boot is                                                                as warning sounds (shouts, beeps, etc.)
    secure – a loose boot may cause                                                                  cannot be heard properly.
    arcing that could ignite combustible     Ensure you always have a firm and safe
                                             footing. Take special care when the bark                Take a break in good time to avoid
    fumes and cause a fire.
                                             is wet – danger of slipping!                            tiredness or exhaustion – risk of
–   Never attempt to modify the controls                                                             accidents!
    or safety devices in any way.
                                                                                                     Dust (e. g., sawdust), fumes and smoke
–   Keep the handles dry and clean –                                                                 produced while using the machine may
    free from oil and dirt – for safe                                                                be hazardous to health. If dust is
    control of the saw.                                                                              generated, wear a dust mask.
–   Make sure there is sufficient fuel                                                               When the engine is running: Note that

                                                                                       001BA087 LÄ
    and chain oil in the tanks.                                                                      the saw chain continues to rotate for a
To reduce the risk of personal injury, do                                                            short period after you let go of the
not operate your saw if it is damaged or                                                             throttle trigger – coasting effect.
not properly assembled.                      Always hold the chain saw firmly with                   No smoking when working with or near
                                             both hands: Right hand on the rear                      the chain saw - risk of fire! Combustible
Starting the chain saw                       handle – even if you are left-handed. To                fuel vapour may escape from the fuel
                                             ensure reliable control, wrap your                      system.
                                             thumbs tightly around the handlebar and
Always work on a level surface. Ensure       handle.
a firm and secure footing. Hold the
machine securely – the chain must not        In the event of impending danger or in
touch any objects or the floor – danger of   an emergency, switch off the engine
injury due to the rotating saw chain.        immediately by moving the Master
                                             Control lever / stop switch to STOP, 0 or
                                             †.

MS 210, MS 210 C, MS 230, MS 230 C, MS 250, MS 250 C                                                                                           5
English

Examine the saw chain periodically at          a machine that is not in perfect working      Storage
short intervals and as soon as you note        order. In case of doubt, have the unit
any tangible changes:                          checked by your servicing dealer.
                                                                                             When the machine is not in use, it
–   Switch off the engine; wait until the      Check for correct idling, so that the saw     should be stored in such a way that no-
    saw chain is stationary                    chain stops moving when the throttle          one is endangered. Secure the machine
                                               trigger is released. Check the idle setting   against unauthorised use.
–   Check condition and secure fitting
                                               regularly and correct when possible.
–   Check sharpness                            Have the machine repaired by a STIHL          Store the machine in a safe, dry room.

Never touch the saw chain when the             servicing dealer if the saw chain still
                                               continues to move during idling.              Vibrations
engine is running. If the saw chain
becomes jammed by an object, switch                           The chain saw produces
off the engine immediately before                             poisonous exhaust gases        Prolonged use of the power tool may
attempting to remove the object – risk of                     as soon as the engine          result in vibration-induced circulation
injury!                                                       starts. These gases may        problems in the hands (whitefinger
                                                              be colourless and odour-       disease).
Always turn off the engine before leaving
the machine unattended.                                       less and may contain           No general recommendation can be
                                                              unburnt hydrocarbons           given for the length of usage because it
To change the saw chain, switch off the                       and benzene. Never work        depends on several factors.
engine. Risk of injury from the motor                         with the machine indoors
starting unintentionally!                                     or in poorly ventilated        The period of usage is prolonged by:
Keep easily combustible materials                             areas, even if your            –   Hand protection (wearing warm
(e. g., wood chips, bark, dry grass, fuel)                    machine is equipped with           gloves)
away from hot exhaust gases and hot                           a catalytic converter.
                                                                                             –   Work breaks
mufflers – risk of fire! Mufflers with         Ensure proper ventilation when working
catalytic converters can become                in trenches, hollows or other confined        The period of usage is shortened by:
especially hot.                                locations – risk of fatal injury from         –   Any personal tendency to suffer
Never work without chain lubrication –         breathing toxic fumes!                            from poor circulation (symptoms:
monitor the oil level in the oil tank. Stop    If you feel sick, have a headache, vision         frequently cold fingers, tingling
work immediately if the oil level in the oil   problems (e. g., your field of vision gets        sensations).
tank is too low and top up with chain oil      smaller), hearing problems, dizziness or      –   Low outside temperatures.
– see also "Topping up with chain oil"         inability to concentrate, stop work
and "Check chain lubrication".                                                               –   The force with which the handles
                                               immediately. Such symptoms may be
                                                                                                 are held (a tight grip restricts
If the machine is subjected to unusually       caused by an excessively high
                                                                                                 circulation).
high loads for which it was not designed       concentration of exhaust emissions –
(e. g., heavy impact or a fall), always        risk of accident!                             Continual and regular users should
check that it is in good condition before                                                    monitor closely the condition of their
continuing work – see also "Before             After finishing work                          hands and fingers. If any of the above
starting work".                                                                              symptoms appear (e.g. tingling
                                                                                             sensation in fingers), seek medical
Check the fuel system for leaks and            Switch off the motor, engage the chain        advice.
make sure the safety devices are               brake and attach the chain scabbard.
working properly. Never continue using

6                                                                        MS 210, MS 210 C, MS 230, MS 230 C, MS 250, MS 250 C
English

Maintenance and repairs                      Check ignition lead (insulation in good      servicing dealer – do not use the
                                             condition, secure connection).               machine until the malfunction has been
                                                                                          remedied, see "Chain brake".
Always switch off the engine before any      Check that the muffler is in perfect
repair, cleaning or maintenance work         working condition.
and any work on the chain. Risk of injury    Do not use the machine if the muffler is
if the engine starts inadvertently!          damaged or missing – risk of fire,
Exception: adjustment of carburettor         damage to hearing!
and idle speed.                              Never touch a hot muffler – risk of burns!
The machine must be serviced regularly.      The condition of the anti-vibration
Do not attempt any maintenance or            elements influences vibration behaviour
repair work not described in the             – inspect anti-vibration elements
Instruction Manual. All other work should    periodically.
be carried out by a servicing dealer.
                                             Inspect chain catcher – replace if
STIHL recommends that maintenance            damaged.
and repair work be carried out only by
authorised STIHL dealers. STIHL              Switch off the engine
dealers receive regular training and are     –   To check the chain tension
supplied with technical information.
                                             –   To retension the chain
Use only high-quality spare parts.
Otherwise, there may be a risk of            –   To replace the chain
accidents and damage to the machine. If      –   For remedying malfunctions
you have any questions in this respect,
consult a servicing dealer.                  Observe sharpening instructions – for
                                             safe and proper handling, always keep
Do not modify the machine in any way –       the chain and guide bar in flawless
this may increase the risk of personal       condition. Keep the chain properly
injury –risk of accidents!                   sharpened, tensioned and well
To reduce the risk of fire due to ignition   lubricated.
outside the cylinder, move the master        Change chain, guide bar and chain
control level to STOP, 0 or † before         sprocket in due time.
turning the engine over on the starter
when the spark plug boot is removed or       Regularly check that the clutch drum is
the spark plug is unscrewed!                 in perfect working condition.

Do not service or store the machine near     Always store fuel and chain lubricant
a naked flame – risk of fire due to the      only in the specified type of containers
fuel.                                        and ensure they are correctly labelled.
                                             Store in a dry, cool and secure place
Check fuel cap regularly for tightness.      protected against light and sunlight.
Use only spark plugs that are in perfect     In the event of a chain brake
condition and have been approved by          malfunction, switch off the machine
STIHL – see "Specifications".                immediately – risk of injury! Consult a

MS 210, MS 210 C, MS 230, MS 230 C, MS 250, MS 250 C                                                                           7
English

                                                     Kickback occurs if, for example,                      –   Be especially careful with small,
Reactive Forces                                                                                                tough limbs, undergrowth and
                                                                                                               offshoots – the saw chain may
The most common reactive forces are:                                                                           become caught in them
kickback, pushback and pull-in.                                                                            –   Never cut several limbs at once
                                                                                                           –   Do not lean too far forward
Dangers of kickback
                                                                                                           –   Do not cut above shoulder height

                                                                                             001BA257 KN
              Kickback can result in                                                                       –   Use extreme caution when re-
              fatal cuts.                                                                                      entering a previous cut
                                                                                                           –   Do not attempt plunge cuts if you
                                                     –   The saw chain in the area of the                      are not experienced in this cutting
                                                         upper quarter of the guide bar nose                   technique
                                                         unintentionally comes into contact
                                                         with wood or a solid object – e. g.,              –   Be alert for shifting of the log or
                                                         unintentionally touches another limb                  other forces that may cause the cut
                                                         during limbing                                        to close and pinch the chain

                                                     –   The saw chain at the nose of the                  –   Always cut with a correctly
                                                         guide bar is briefly pinched in the cut               sharpened, properly tensioned saw
                                                                                                               chain – the depth gauge setting
                                                                                                               must not be too large
                                                     QuickStop chain brake:
                                                                                                           –   Use low-kickback saw chains as
                                                                                                               well as narrow-radius guide bars
                                                     This device reduces the risk of injury in
                                                     certain situations – it cannot prevent
                                                                                                           Pull-in (A)
                                                     kickback. If activated, the brake stops
                                                     the saw chain within a fraction of a
                                                     second –
                                                     refer to chapter "Chain brake" in this
                                                     Instruction Manual.
                                       001BA036 KN

                                                     Reducing the risk of kickback

                                                                                                                                                   001BA037 KN
Kickback occurs when the saw is
suddenly thrown up and back in an                    –   Work cautiously and methodically
uncontrolled arc towards the operator.               –   Hold the chain saw firmly with both
                                                                                                                                             A
                                                         hands and maintain a secure grip
                                                                                                           When the chain on the bottom of the bar
                                                     –   Always cut at full throttle                       – overbucking – is suddenly pinched,
                                                                                                           caught or encounters a foreign object in
                                                     –   Be aware of the location of the guide
                                                                                                           the wood, the chain saw may suddenly
                                                         bar nose
                                                     –   Do not cut with the guide bar nose

8                                                                              MS 210, MS 210 C, MS 230, MS 230 C, MS 250, MS 250 C
English

be drawn forward toward the log – to                 Dead wood (brittle, rotten or dead wood)
avoid this, engage the bumper spike                  poses a significant, highly unpredictable   Working Techniques
firmly in the wood.                                  hazard. It is extremely difficult or even
                                                     practically impossible to recognise the     Sawing and felling work, including all
Pushback (B)                                         danger. Use aids such as winches or         related work (plunge cutting, limbing,
                                                     draglines.                                  etc.) may only be carried out by persons
                                                     When felling close to roads, rail lines,    who have been specially trained and
                                                     power lines, etc., work with particular     instructed. Persons who are not
                                                     care. If necessary, notify police, power    experienced chain saw users should not
                                                     companies or railway authorities.           carry out any such work – increased risk
                                                                                                 of accidents!
                                                                                                 Country-specific legislation on felling

                                       001BA038 KN
                                                                                                 technique must be complied with during
                                   B                                                             felling work.

When the chain on the top of the bar –                                                           Cutting
underbucking – is suddenly pinched,
caught or encounters a foreign object in                                                         Do not operate your saw with the
the wood, the chain saw may suddenly                                                             starting throttle lock engaged. Engine
be driven straight back toward the                                                               speed cannot be controlled with the
operator – to avoid this:                                                                        throttle trigger in this position.
–   Do not allow the top of the guide bar                                                        Work calmly and carefully – in daylight
    to become jammed                                                                             conditions and only when visibility is
–   Do not twist the guide bar in the cut                                                        good. Ensure you do not endanger
                                                                                                 others – stay alert at all times.
Be very careful                                                                                  First-time users are advised to practice
                                                                                                 cutting logs on a sawhorse – see "When
–   With freely hanging limbs                                                                    cutting small logs".

–   With trunks that are under tension                                                           Use the shortest possible guide bar: The
    between other trees because they                                                             chain, guide bar and chain sprocket
    fell unfavourably                                                                            must match each other and your saw.

–   When working in windbreaks
In these cases, do not use a chain saw –
use a hoist, winch or dragline instead.
Pull out trunks that are lying about and
have been cut free. Whenever possible,
deal with them in open areas.

MS 210, MS 210 C, MS 230, MS 230 C, MS 250, MS 250 C                                                                                       9
English

                                                          materials, dry plants or scrub. Always                  Note when reaching the end of a cut that
                                                          contact your local forest authority for                 the saw is no longer supported in the
                                                          information on a possible fire risk.                    kerf. You have to take the full weight of
                                                                                                                  the machine since it might otherwise go
                                                                                                                  out of control.
                                                                                                                  When cutting small logs:

                                            001BA082 KN
                                                                                                                  –   Use a sturdy and stable support –
                                                                                                                      sawhorse.
Position the saw so that your body is                                                                             –   Never hold the log with your leg or
clear of the cutting attachment.                                                                                      foot.
Always pull the saw out of the cut with                                                                           –   Never allow another person to hold
the chain running.                                                                                                    the log or help in any other way.
Use your chain saw for cutting only. It is                                                                        Limbing:
not designed for prying or shoveling                                                                              –   Use a low kickback chain.
away limbs, roots or other objects.
                                                                                                                  –   Work with the saw supported
Do not underbuck freely hanging limbs.                                                                                wherever possible.

                                                                                                    001BA033 KN
Take care when cutting scrub and young                                                                            –   Do not stand on the log while
trees. The saw chain may catch and                                                                                    limbing it.
throw thin shoots in your direction.
                                                                                                                  –   Do not cut with the bar nose.
To reduce the risk of injury, take special                If on a slope, stand on the uphill side of
care when cutting shattered wood                          the log. Watch out for rolling logs.                    –   Watch for limbs which are under
because of the risk of injury from slivers                                                                            tension.
being caught and thrown in your                           When working at heights:
                                                                                                                  –   Never cut several limbs at once.
direction.                                                –   Always use a lift bucket
                                                                                                                  Lying or standing logs under tension:
Make sure your saw does not touch any                     –   Never work on a ladder or in a tree
foreign materials: Stones, nails, etc. may                                                                        Always make cuts in the correct
be flung off and damage the saw chain.                    –   Never work on an insecure support                   sequence (first at the compression
The saw may kick back unexpectedly –                      –   Do not work above shoulder height                   side (1), then at the tension side (2), the
risk of accidents.                                                                                                saw may otherwise pinch or kick back –
                                                          –   Never operate your power tool with                  risk of injury.
If the rotating chain makes contact with                      one hand
a rock or other solid object there is a risk
                                                          Begin cutting with the saw at full throttle
of sparking which may cause easily
                                                          and engage the spiked bumper firmly in
combustible material to catch fire under
                                                          the wood, and then continue cutting.
certain circumstances. Dry plants and
scrub are also easily combustible,                        Never work without the spiked bumper
especially in hot and dry weather                         because the saw may pull you forwards
conditions. If there is a risk of fire, do not            and off balance. Always engage the
use your chainsaw near combustible                        spiked bumper securely in the tree or
                                                          limb.

10                                                                                  MS 210, MS 210 C, MS 230, MS 230 C, MS 250, MS 250 C
English

                                                      Ripping cut:

                    1

                                                                                                                                                       001BA088 LÄ
                    2

                                        001BA151 KN
                                                                                                                        1         1/ 2      1
                                                                                                                                 21/2

                                                                                                              Maintain a distance of at least 2 1/2 tree
                                                                                                              lengths from the next felling site.
                     2                                                                                        Determining direction of fall and escape
                                                                                                              path

                     1                                                                                        Select gap in stand into which you want
                                        001BA152 KN

                                                                                                              the tree to fall.
                                                                                                              Pay special attention to the following

                                                                                                001BA189 KN
                                                                                                              points:
N   Make relieving cut at the                                                                                 –   The natural lean of the tree
    compression side (1)
                                                      Cutting technique in which the spiked                   –   Any unusually heavy limb structure,
N   Make bucking cut at the tension                                                                               damage
    side (2)                                          bumper is not used – risk of pull-in – start
                                                      the cut with the guide bar at the                       –   The wind direction and speed – do
Be wary of pushback when making                       shallowest possible angle – take extra                      not fell in high winds
bucking cut from the bottom upwards                   care since there is an increased danger
(underbuck).                                          of kickback.                                            –   Sloping ground
                                                                                                              –   Neighboring trees
     NOTICE                                           Preparations for Felling
                                                                                                              –   Snow load
Do not cut a lying log at a point where it                                                                    –   Soundness of tree – take special
is touching the ground because the saw                Check that there are no other persons in                    care if trunk is damaged or in case
chain will otherwise be damaged.                      the felling area – other than helpers.                      of deadwood (dry, decayed or rotted
                                                      Make sure no-one is endangered by the                       wood)
                                                      falling tree – the noise of your engine
                                                      may drown any warning calls.

MS 210, MS 210 C, MS 230, MS 230 C, MS 250, MS 250 C                                                                                                   11
English

                                                        Preparing work area at base of tree                    Felling notch
                                                        –   First clear the tree base and work

                                 B
                                                            area from interfering limbs and                    Preparing felling notch
                                                            brush to provide a secure footing.
                                                        –   Clean lower portion of tree base
                                                            (e.g. with an axe) – sand, stones
                                    45°                     and other foreign objects will dull the
                                                            saw chain.
          A                                                                                                            C
                                    45°

                                                                                                 001BA146 KN
                                          001BA040 KN
                                 B

                                                                                                                            C
                                                        –   Make the vertical cut first, then the
A    Direction of fall

                                                                                                                                                       001BA271 KN
                                                            horizontal – but only if the wood is
B    Escape path (or retreat path)                          sound
–    Establish paths of escape for
     everyone concerned – opposite to
                                                                                                               The felling notch (C) determines the
     direction of fall at about 45°.
                                                                                                               direction of fall.
–    Remove all obstacles from escape
                                                                                                               Important:
     paths.
                                                                                                               –   Make felling notch at a right angle to
–    Place all tools and equipment a safe
                                                                                                                   the planned direction of fall.
     distance away from the tree, but not
     on the escape paths.                                                                                      –   Cut close to the ground.
–    Always keep to the side of the falling                                                                    –   Cut to a depth of about 1/5 to 1/3 of
     tree and only walk away along the                                                                             the trunk diameter.
     preplanned escape path.
–    On steep slopes, plan escape
     routes parallel to the slope.
–    When walking away along the
     escape path, watch out for falling
     limbs and watch the top of the tree.

12                                                                                MS 210, MS 210 C, MS 230, MS 230 C, MS 250, MS 250 C
English

Determine direction of fall with gunning              Check direction of fall                               felling notch to a depth of about 1/10 of
sight on shroud and fan housing                                                                             trunk diameter. On large diameter trees,
                                                                                                            cut to no more than width of guide bar.
                                                                                                            Do not make sapwood cuts if wood is
                                                                                                            diseased.

                                                                                                            Basic information on felling cut

                                                                                              001BA153 KN
                                        001BA153 KN
                                                                                                            Stump dimensions

                                                      N   Position the saw in the horizontal
Your chainsaw has a gunning sight on                      cut. The gunning sight must point in
the shroud and fan housing. Use this                      the planned direction of fall – if
gunning sight.                                            necessary, correct direction of fall
                                                          by re-cutting the felling notch.
Making Felling Notch                                                                                                C
                                                                                                                                                1/10
Position the saw so that the felling notch            Sapwood cuts                                                                                 Ø
is at a right angle to the direction you
want the tree to fall.
The sequence in which the felling notch
is made with a horizontal cut (bottom)
and angled cut (top) is defined in
country-specific regulations.
                                                                                                                        C         E
N   Make horizontal cut (bottom)
    Make the angled cut (top) at about

                                                                                                                                                      001BA259 KN
N                                                                                                                                         G
    45°- 60° to the horizontal cut.

                                                                                                            The felling notch (C) determines the
                                                                                                            direction of fall.
                                                                                                            The hinge (D) helps control the falling
                                                                                                            tree.
                                                                                                            –   Width of hinge: about 1/10 of tree
                                                                                              001BA150 KN

                                                                                                                diameter.
                                                                                                            –   To reduce the risk of accidents, do
                                                                                                                not cut through the hinge – you
                                                      Sapwood cuts in long-fibered softwood                     could lose control of the direction of
                                                      help prevent sapwood splintering when                     fall.
                                                      the tree falls. Make cuts at both sides of
                                                      the trunk at same height as bottom of                 –   Leave a broader hinge on rotten
                                                                                                                trees.

MS 210, MS 210 C, MS 230, MS 230 C, MS 250, MS 250 C                                                                                               13
English

The tree is felled with the felling cut (E).            1.   Begin cut by applying the lower                      Contact your STIHL dealer for advice on
                                                             portion of the guide bar nose – do                   selecting the right felling wedge (length,
–    Cut horizontally.
                                                             not use upper portion because of –                   width and height).
–    1/10 (at least 3 cm) of tree diameter                   risk of kickback. Start cutting at full
     higher than bottom of felling                           throttle until depth of kerf is twice the            Choosing right felling cut
     notch (C).                                              width of the guide bar.
The holding strap (F) or stabilizing                    2nd Swing saw slowly into plunge-                         The criteria for choosing the right felling
strap (G) supports the tree and helps                       cutting position – take care because                  cut are the same as those for
prevent it from falling prematurely.                        of the risk of kickback or pushback.                  determining the direction of fall and the
–    Width of strap: about 1/10 to 1/5 of               3.   Make the plunge cut very carefully.                  escape path.
     tree diameter.                                          Danger of pushback.                                  There are many different variations of
–    Do not cut into the strap while                                                                              these characteristics. Only the two most
     making the felling cut.                                                                                      common characteristics are described in
                                                                                                                  this manual:
–    Leave a broader strap on rotten
     trees.
Plunge cutting

                                                                                                    001BA270 KN
–    For relieving cuts during bucking
–    For wood carving

                                                                                                                                                           001BA260 KN
                                                        Use the plunge-cutting sight if possible.
                                                        The plunge-cutting sight and the top and
                                                        bottom of the guide bar are parallel.
                                                        When making the plunge cut, the sight                     Left:     Normal tree – vertical trunk
                                                        helps keep the hinge horizontal, i.e. the                           with uniform tree crown.
                                                        same thickness all round. To do this,                     Right:    Leaner – tree crown leans in
                                                        hold the plunge-cutting sight parallel to                           direction of fall.
                                                        the chord of the felling notch.
                                                        Felling wedges                                            Felling Cut with Stabilizing Strap
                                                                                                                  (Normal Tree)
                                                        Make use of wedges as soon as
          1.                                            possible, i.e. providing they do not
                                                        interfere with cutting. Drive wedge into                  A) Small diameter trees
                                3.                      felling cut with a suitable tool.
                                                                                                                  Perform this felling cut when the tree
               2.                                       Use only aluminum or plastic wedges –                     diameter is smaller than the length of the
                                          001BA269 KN

                                                        never steel. Steel wedges can seriously                   guide bar.
                                                        damage the saw chain and cause
                                                        dangerous kickback.
N    Use a low kickback chain and                       Select felling wedges that suit the
     exercise particular caution                        diameter of the tree and width of the kerf
                                                        (felling cut (E)).

14                                                                                  MS 210, MS 210 C, MS 230, MS 230 C, MS 250, MS 250 C
English

                                                                                                                                    1.
                                                                                                                               2.
                                                                                                                                              3.

                     1.
                            2.                                                   3.

                                                                                                                             4.          5.
                                        001BA261 KN

                                                                                              001BA273 KN

                                                                                                                                                        001BA263 KN
Shout a warning before starting the                   N   Insert a felling wedge (3).                       Shout a warning before starting the
felling cut.                                                                                                felling cut.
                                                      Shout a second warning immediately
N   Start felling cut (E) using plunge-cut            before the tree falls.                                N   Engage the spiked bumper at the
    method – insert full length of guide                                                                        required height of the felling cut and
                                                      N   Holding the saw with outstretched
    bar in the trunk.                                                                                           use it as a pivot – avoid
                                                          arms, cut through the stabilizing
                                                                                                                repositioning the saw more than
N   Engage the spiked bumper behind                       strap horizontally at the same level
                                                                                                                necessary.
    the hinge and use it as a pivot –                     as the felling cut.
    avoid repositioning the saw more                                                                        N   The guide bar nose enters the
                                                      B) Large diameter trees
    than necessary.                                                                                             wood (1) before it reaches the hinge
                                                      Perform this felling cut when the tree                    – hold the saw horizontally and
N   Enlarge felling cut as far as
                                                      diameter is greater than the length of the                swing it as far as possible.
    hinge (1).
                                                      guide bar.
                                                                                                            N   Enlarge felling cut as far as
–   Do not cut into the hinge.
                                                                                                                hinge (2).
N   Enlarge felling cut as far as
                                                                                                            –   Do not cut into the hinge.
    stabilizing strap (2).
                                                                                                            N   Enlarge felling cut as far as
–   Do not cut into the stabilizing strap.
                                                                                                                stabilizing strap (3).
                                                                                                            –   Do not cut into the stabilizing strap.
                                                                                                            Continue the felling cut on the other side
                                                                                                            of the trunk.
                                                                                                            Make sure the second cut is at the same
                                                                                                            height as the first cut.

MS 210, MS 210 C, MS 230, MS 230 C, MS 250, MS 250 C                                                                                                   15
English

N    Start felling cut using plunge-cut                 Felling Cut with Holding Strap (Leaner)
     method.
N    Enlarge felling cut as far as                      A) Small diameter trees
     hinge (4).
                                                        Perform this felling cut when the tree
–    Do not cut into the hinge.                         diameter is smaller than the length of the
N    Enlarge felling cut as far as                      guide bar.
     stabilizing strap (5).
–    Do not cut into the stabilizing strap.

                                                                          1.      2.

                                                                                                                                                    001BA266 KN
                              6.                                                                               Shout a second warning immediately
                                                                                                               before the tree falls.
                                                                                                               N   Cut through the holding strap at a
                                                                                                                   downward angle from outside with

                                                                                                 001BA265 KN
                                                                                                                   outstretched arms.
                                          001BA274 KN

                                                        N   Plunge the guide bar into the trunk
                                                            until it emerges at the other side.

N    Insert a felling wedge (6).                        N   Enlarge the felling cut (E) in
                                                            direction of hinge (1).
Shout a second warning immediately
before the tree falls.                                  –   Cut horizontally.

N    Holding the saw with outstretched                  –   Do not cut into the hinge.
     arms, cut through the stabilizing                  N   Enlarge the felling cut in direction of
     strap horizontally at the same level                   holding strap (2).
     as the felling cut.
                                                        –   Cut horizontally.
                                                        –   Do not cut into the holding strap.

16                                                                                MS 210, MS 210 C, MS 230, MS 230 C, MS 250, MS 250 C
English

B) Large diameter trees                                Continue the felling cut on the other side              N   With outstretched arms, cut through
                                                       of the trunk.                                               the holding strap at a downward
                                                                                                                   angle from outside.
                                                       Make sure the second cut is at the same
                                                       height as the first cut.

                           1.                          N   Engage the spiked bumper behind
                 2.             3.                         the hinge and use it as a pivot –
                                                           avoid repositioning the saw more
                                                           than necessary.
                                                       N   The guide bar nose enters the
                                                           wood (4) before it reaches the
                                                           holding strap – hold the saw
                                                           horizontally and swing it as far as
                                                           possible.
                 5.             6.                     N   Enlarge felling cut as far as
                      4.
                                                           hinge (5).
                                         001BA267 KN

                                                       –   Do not cut into the hinge.
                                                       N   Enlarge felling cut as far as holding
                                                           strap (6).
Perform this felling cut when the tree                 –   Do not cut into the holding strap.
diameter is greater than the length of the
guide bar.
N   Engage the spiked bumper behind
    the holding strap and use it as a
    pivot – avoid repositioning the saw
    more than necessary.
N   The guide bar nose enters the
    wood (1) before it reaches the hinge
    – hold the saw horizontally and
    swing it as far as possible.
–   Do not cut into the holding strap or
    hinge.
N   Enlarge felling cut as far as
    hinge (2).
–   Do not cut into the hinge.
                                                                                                 001BA268 KN

N   Enlarge felling cut as far as holding
    strap (3).
–   Do not cut into the holding strap.                 Shout a second warning immediately
                                                       before the tree falls.

MS 210, MS 210 C, MS 230, MS 230 C, MS 250, MS 250 C                                                                                               17
English

                                                      Chain Scabbard
Cutting Attachment                                                                                        Mounting the Bar and Chain
                                                                                                          (side chain tensioner)
A cutting attachment consists of the saw
chain, guide bar and chain sprocket.                                                                      Removing the chain sprocket cover

The cutting attachment that comes
standard is designed to exactly match
the chain saw.

                                                                                            001BA244 KN
     1
                                    2                 Your saw comes standard with a chain

                                                                                                                                                   143BA034 KN
                                                      scabbard that matches the cutting
                                        001BA248 KN   attachment.

               a                    3                 If guide bars of different lengths are
                                                                                                          N   Unscrew the nuts and take off the
                                                      mounted to the saw, always use a chain
                                                                                                              chain sprocket cover.
                                                      scabbard of the correct length which
–    The pitch (t) of the saw chain (1),              covers the complete guide bar.
     chain sprocket and the nose                      The length of the matching guide bars is                                  1
     sprocket of the Rollomatic guide bar             marked on the side of the chain
     must match.                                      scabbard.
–    The drive link gauge (2) of the saw
     chain (1) must match the groove
                                                                                                                            2

                                                                                                                                                    001BA185 KN
     width of the guide bar (3).
If non-matching components are used,
the cutting attachment may be damaged                                                                     N   Turn the screw (1)
beyond repair after a short period of                                                                         counterclockwise until the tensioner
operation.                                                                                                    slide (2) butts against the left end of
                                                                                                              the housing slot.

18                                                                            MS 210, MS 210 C, MS 230, MS 230 C, MS 250, MS 250 C
English

Disengaging the chain brake.
                                                                                                              Mounting the Bar and Chain
                                                                                                              (front chain tensioner)
                                                                3          1    1
                                                                                                              Removing the chain sprocket cover
                                                                          2 4

                                                                                                001BA187 KN
                                         001BA186 KN
                                                       N   Fit the guide bar over the studs (1) –
                                                           the cutting edges on the top of the
                                                           bar must point to the right.
N   Pull the hand guarad towards the

                                                                                                                                                     143BA034 KN
    front handle until there is an audible             N   Engage the peg of the tensioner
    click – the chain brake is                             slide in the locating hole (2) –- place
    disengaged.                                            the chain over sprocket (3) at the
                                                           same time.                                         N   Unscrew the nut and remove the
Fitting the chain                                      N   Turn the tensioning                                    chain sprocket cover.
                                                           screw (4)clockwise until there is
                                                           very little chain sag on the
                                                           underside of the bar – and the drive
                                                           link tangs are engaged in the bar
                                                           groove.
                                                       N   Refit the sprocket cover and screw
                                                                                                                                             1

                                                                                                                                                    207BA009 KN
                                                           on the nuts only fingertight.
                                        143BA003 KN

                                                                                                                                     2
                                                       N   Go to chapter on "Tensioning the
                                                           Saw Chain"
                                                                                                              N   Turn the screw (1)
                                                                                                                  counterclockwise until the
     WARNING                                                                                                      tensioning nut (2) butts against the
                                                                                                                  left end of the housing slot.
Wear work gloves to protect your hands
from the sharp cutters.
N   Fit the chain – start at the bar nose.

MS 210, MS 210 C, MS 230, MS 230 C, MS 250, MS 250 C                                                                                                19
English

Disengage the chain brake.
                                                                                                                 Mounting the Bar and Chain
                                                                                                                 (quick chain tensioner)
                                                                 3          1    1
                                                                                                                 Removing the chain sprocket cover
                                                                           2           4

                                                                                                   207BA010 KN
                                          001BA186 KN
                                                        N   Fit the guide bar over the studs (1) –
                                                            the cutting edges on the top of the                                           1
                                                            bar must point to the right.                                         3                  2
     Pull the hand guard towards the

                                                                                                                                                          2310BA013 KN
N
     front handle until there is an audible             N   Engage the peg of the tensioner
     click – the chain brake is                             slide in the locating hole (2) –- place
     disengaged.                                            the chain over the sprocket (3) at
                                                            the same time.                                       N   Swing grip (1) into position (until it
Fitting the chain                                       N   Turn the tensioning screw (4)                            engages)
                                                            clockwise until there is very little                 N   Turn the wing nut (2) to the left until
                                                            chain sag on the underside of the                        it hangs loosely in the chain
                                                            bar – and the drive link tangs are                       sprocket cover (3)
                                                            engaged in the bar groove.
                                                                                                                 N   Remove chain sprocket cover (3)
                                                        N   Refit the sprocket cover and screw
                                                            on the nut only fingertight.                         Mounting the tensioning gear
                                         143BA003 KN

                                                        N   Go to chapter on "Tensioning the
                                                            Saw Chain"

     WARNING
                                                                                                                                                1
Wear work gloves to protect your hands

                                                                                                                                                          2310BA014 KN
from the sharp cutters.
N    Fit the chain – start at the bar nose.

                                                                                                                 N   Remove and reverse tensioning
                                                                                                                     gear (1)

20                                                                                MS 210, MS 210 C, MS 230, MS 230 C, MS 250, MS 250 C
English

                                                     Releasing the chain brake                             N   Fit the saw chain – starting at the
                                                                                                               nose of the guide bar – pay attention
            2                                                                                                  to the position of the tensioning gear
                                                                                                               and the cutting edges
                                                                                                           N   Turn tensioning gear (1) to the right
                                                                                                               as far as possible

                                      2310BA015 KN
                                                                                                           N   Turn the guide bar so that the
                                                                                                               tensioning gear faces the user

                                                                                             001BA186 KN
N   Remove screw (2)

                    1                                N   Pull hand guard towards the front                                             3
                                                         handle until it engages audibly –                          2
                                                         chain brake is released

                                                                                                                                                   181BA013 KN
                                3                    Fitting the saw chain
                                      2310BA016 KN

                                                                                                           N   Place the saw chain on the chain
                                                                                                               sprocket (2)
N   Position tensioning gear (1) and
    guide bar (3) relative to one another                                                                  N   Slide the guide bar over the collar
                                                                                                               screw (3); the head of the rear collar
                                                                                                               screw must protrude into the oblong
                                                                                                               hole
                2
                                      2310BA017 KN

N   Insert and tighten screw (2)

                                                                         1
                                                                                             181BA012 KN

                                                          WARNING
                                                     Put on protective gloves – risk of injury
                                                     by the sharp cutters.

MS 210, MS 210 C, MS 230, MS 230 C, MS 250, MS 250 C                                                                                              21
English

                                                        N   turn the adjusting wheel (4) a little
                                                            until the chain sprocket cover can       Tensioning the Saw Chain
                                                            be slid completely against the           (side chain tensioner)
                                                            engine housing
                                                        N   Swing grip (5) into position (until it
                                                            engages)
                                                        N   Fit wing nut and tighten lightly
                                                        N   Next step: see "Tensioning the Saw            1

                                                                                                                                            133BA024 KN
                                                            Chain"

                                                                                                     Retensioning during cutting work:
                                                                                                     N   Shut off the engine.
                                         135BA011 KN

                                                                                                     N   Loosen the nuts.
                                                                                                     N   Hold the bar nose up.
                                                                                                     N   Use a screwdriver to turn the
N    Guide the drive link into the bar                                                                   tensioning screw (1) clockwise until
     groove (see arrow) and turn the                                                                     the chain fits snugly against the
     tensioning gear to the left as far as                                                               underside of the bar.
     possible
                                                                                                     N   While still holding the bar nose up,
N    Fit chain sprocket cover, sliding the                                                               tighten down the nuts firmly.
     guide lugs into the engine housing
     openings                                                                                        N   Go to "Checking Chain Tension".
                                                                                                     A new chain has to be retensioned more
                                                                                                     often than one that has been in use for
                               4                                                                     some time.

                         5                                                                           N   Check chain tension frequently –
                                                                                                         see chapter on "Operating
                                                                                                         Instructions".
                                         2310BA018 KN

When fitting the chain sprocket cover,
the teeth of the adjusting wheel and the
tensioning gear must mesh; if
necessary,

22                                                                                MS 210, MS 210 C, MS 230, MS 230 C, MS 250, MS 250 C
English

Tensioning the Saw Chain                             Tensioning the Saw Chain                             Checking Chain Tension
(front chain tensioner)                              (quick chain tensioner)

                                                                          1
                                                                      2

                                       143BA045 KN

                                                                                            001BA112 KN

                                                                                                                                                   143BA007 KN
          1

Retensioning during cutting work:                    Retensioning during cutting work:                    N   Shut off the engine.
N   Switch off the engine.                           N   Shut off the engine.                             N   Wear work gloves to protect your
                                                                                                              hands.
N   Loosen the nuts.                                 N   Pull out the hinged clip and loosen
                                                         the wingnut.                                     N   The chain must fit snugly against
N   Hold the bar nose up.
                                                                                                              the underside of the bar and it must
                                                     N   Turn the adjusting wheel (1)
N   Use a screwdriver to turn the                                                                             still be possible to pull the chain
                                                         clockwise as far as stop.
    tensioning screw (1) clockwise until                                                                      along the bar by hand.
    the chain fits snugly against the                N   Tighten down the wingnut (2) firmly
                                                                                                          N   If necessary, retension the chain.
    underside of the bar.                                by hand.
                                                                                                          A new chain has to be retensioned more
N   While still holding the bar nose up,             N   Fold down the hinged clip.
                                                                                                          often than one that has been in use for
    tighten down the nuts firmly.
                                                     N   Go to "Checking Chain Tension"                   some time.
N   Go to "Checking Chain Tension".
                                                     A new chain has to be retensioned more               N   Check chain tension frequently –
A new chain has to be retensioned more               often than one that has been in use for                  see chapter on "Operating
often than one that has been in use for              some time.                                               Instructions".
some time.
                                                     N   Check chain tension frequently –
N   Check chain tension frequently –                     see chapter on "Operating
    see chapter on "Operating                            Instructions".
    Instructions".

MS 210, MS 210 C, MS 230, MS 230 C, MS 250, MS 250 C                                                                                             23
English

                                           Gasoline with an ethanol content of            Storing Fuel
Fuel                                       more than 10% can cause running
                                           problems in engines with a manually
                                           adjustable carburetor and should not be        Store fuel only in approved safety-type
Your engine requires a mixture of                                                         fuel canisters in a dry, cool and safe
gasoline and engine oil.                   used in such engines.
                                                                                          location protected from light and the sun.
                                           Engines equipped with M-Tronic deliver
                                           full power when run on gasoline with an        Fuel mix ages – only mix sufficient fuel
     WARNING                                                                              for a few weeks work. Do not store fuel
                                           ethanol content of up to 25% (E25).
For health reasons, avoid direct skin                                                     mix for longer than 30 days. Exposure to
contact with gasoline and avoid inhaling   Engine Oil                                     light, the sun, low or high temperatures
gasoline vapor.                                                                           can quickly make the fuel mix unusable.
                                           If you mix the fuel yourself, use only
                                           STIHL two-stroke engine oil or another         STIHL MotoMix may be stored for up to
STIHL MotoMix                                                                             2 years without any problems.
                                           high-performance engine oil in
                                           accordance with JASO FB, JASO FC,              N   Thoroughly shake the mixture in the
STIHL recommends the use of STIHL          JASO FD, ISO-L-EGB, ISO-L-EGC or                   canister before fueling your
MotoMix. This ready-to-use fuel mix        ISO-L-EGD.                                         machine.
contains no benzol or lead, has a high     STIHL specifies STIHL HP Ultra two-
octane rating and ensures that you         stroke engine oil or an equivalent high-            WARNING
always use the right mix ratio.            performance engine oil in order to
                                                                                          Pressure may build up in the canister –
STIHL MotoMix uses STIHL HP Ultra          maintain emission limits over the
                                                                                          open it carefully.
two-stroke engine oil for an extra long    machine’s service life.
engine life.                                                                              N   Clean the fuel tank and canister
                                           Mix Ratio                                          from time to time.
MotoMix is not available in all markets.
                                           STIHL 50:1 two-stroke engine oil: 50           Dispose of remaining fuel and cleaning
Mixing Fuel                                parts gasoline to 1 part oil                   fluid properly in accordance with local
                                                                                          regulations and environmental
                                           Examples                                       requirements.

     NOTICE                                Gasoline        STIHL engine oil 50:1
                                           Liters          Liters  (ml)
Unsuitable fuels or lubricants or mix
ratios other than those specified may      1               0.02    (20)
result in serious damage to the engine.    5               0.10    (100)
Poor quality gasoline or engine oil may    10              0.20    (200)
damage the engine, sealing rings, hoses    15              0.30    (300)
and the fuel tank.
                                           20              0.40    (400)
Gasoline                                   25              0.50    (500)
Use only high-quality brand-name           N   Use a canister approved for storing
gasoline with a minimum octane rating          fuel. Pour oil into canister first, then
of 90 – leaded or unleaded.                    add gasoline and mix thoroughly.

24                                                                   MS 210, MS 210 C, MS 230, MS 230 C, MS 250, MS 250 C
English

Fueling

                                                                                             001BA240 KN

                                                                                                                                                     001BA224 KN
Preparing the machine

                                                    left:      Filler cap - without markings               N   Remove the filler cap
                                                    right:     Filler cap - with markings on
                                                                                                           Filling with fuel
                                                               cap and fuel tank
                                                                                                           Take care not to spill fuel while fueling
                                                    Filler cap without marking                             and do not overfill the tank.
                                                                                                           STIHL recommends using the STIHL
                                      001BA229 KN

                                                                                                           filling system for fuel (special
                                                    To open:                                               accessory).
                                                                                                           N   Fill with fuel
N   Before fueling, clean the cap and
    the area around it to ensure that no                                                                   Closing
    dirt falls into the fuel tank
N   Always position the machine so that
    the cap is facing upwards

                                                                                            001BA218 KN
Different markings on filler caps

                                                                                                                                                     001BA220 KN
                                                    N   Open bracket until it is vertical
Filler caps and fuel tanks can be marked
differently.
Depending on the version, filler cap and                                                                   Bracket is in an upright position:
fuel tank may be available with or
without markings.                                                                                          N   Position filler cap – position
                                                                                                               markings on the filler cap and the
                                                                                                               filler port must be aligned with each
                                                                                            001BA219 KN

                                                                                                               other.
                                                                                                           N   Push the filler cap down as far as it
                                                    N   Turn the filler cap counterclockwise                   will go
                                                        (approx. 1/4 turn)

MS 210, MS 210 C, MS 230, MS 230 C, MS 250, MS 250 C                                                                                                25
English

                                          001BA221 KN

                                                                                                                                                        001BA226 KN
                                                                                                   001BA225 KN
N    Hold the filler cap down and turn it               N   Grip the filler cap – if the filler cap              N   Fit filler cap and turn it
     clockwise until it engages                             cannot be moved or removed, then                         counterclockwise until it engages in
                                                            it is closed properly                                    the seat of the filling port

                                                        If the filler cap can be moved or removed                N   Continue to turn the filler cap
                                                                                                                     counterclockwise (approx. 1/4 turn)
                                                        The base of the filler cap is twisted in                     – this will twist the base of the cap
                                                        relation to the upper part.                                  into the correct position
                                                                                                                 N   Turn the filler cap clockwise and
                                          001BA222 KN

                                                                                                                     close it – see the section "Closing"
                                                                                                                     and "Checking the lock"

N    Fold down the bracket as far as it                                                                          Filler cap with marking
     will go

                                                                                                   001BA227 KN
Checking the lock                                                                                                To open:

                                                        left:      Base of filler cap twisted
                                                        right:     Base of filler cap correctly
                                                                   positioned
                                          001BA223 KN

                                                                                                                                                        001BA236 KN
–    The lug on the bracket must engage                                                                          N   Open bracket
     entirely in the recess (arrow)

26                                                                                MS 210, MS 210 C, MS 230, MS 230 C, MS 250, MS 250 C
English

                                                       Closing

                                         001BA232 KN

                                                                                                                                                          001BA235 KN
                                                                                                 001BA234 KN
N   Turn filler cap (approx. 1/4 turn)                                                                         N   Close bracket lock
                                                       Bracket is in an upright position:
                                                       N   Position filler cap – markings on filler
                                                           cap and fuel tank must align
                                                       N   Push the filler cap down as far as it
                                                           will go
                                         001BA234 KN

                                                                                                                                                          001BA241 KN
Markings on filler cap and fuel tank must                                                                      Filler cap is locked
align
                                                                                                               If the filler cap will not lock onto the fuel

                                                                                                 001BA233 KN
                                                                                                               tank
                                                                                                               The base of the filler cap is twisted in
                                                                                                               relation to the upper part.
                                                       N   Hold the filler cap down and turn it
                                                                                                               N   Remove the filler cap from the fuel
                                                           clockwise until it engages
                                                                                                                   tank and look at it from above
                                         001BA237 KN

N   Remove the filler cap

Filling with fuel
                                                                                                 001BA231 KN

Take care not to spill fuel while fueling
and do not overfill the tank.
STIHL recommends using the STIHL
filling system for fuel (special                       Then the markings on filler cap and fuel
accessory).                                            tank will align

N   Fill with fuel

MS 210, MS 210 C, MS 230, MS 230 C, MS 250, MS 250 C                                                                                                      27
English

                                                           Chain Lubricant                               Filling Chain Oil Tank

                                                           For automatic and reliable lubrication of
                       1                                   the chain and guide bar – use only an
                                                           environmentally compatible quality

                                             001BA238 KN
                                                           chain and bar lubricant. Rapidly
                                                           biodegradable STIHL BioPlus is
                                                                                                         Preparations
                                                           recommended.
left:         Base of filler cap is twisted –
              interior marking (1) is aligned                   NOTICE
              with the exterior marking
                                                           Biological chain oil must be resistant to
right:        Base of filler cap is in the cor-
                                                           aging (e.g. STIHL BioPlus), since it will
              rect position – interior
                                                           otherwise quickly turn to resin. This
              marking is below the bracket.
                                                           results in hard deposits that are difficult
              It does not align with the

                                                                                                                                                    001BA158 KN
                                                           to remove, especially in the area of the
              exterior marking
                                                           chain drive and chain. It may even cause
                                                           the oil pump to seize.
                                                           The service life of the chain and guide       N   Thoroughly clean the oil filler cap
                                                           bar depends on the quality of the                 and the area around it to ensure that
                                                           lubricant. It is therefore essential to use       no dirt falls into the tank.
                                                           only a specially formulated chain
                                                                                                         N   Position the machine so that the
                                                           lubricant.
                                             001BA239 KN

                                                                                                             filler cap is facing up.

                                                                WARNING                                  N   Open the filler cap.

N       Fit filler cap and turn it                         Do not use waste oil. Renewed contact         Fill up with chain oil.
        counterclockwise until it engages in               with waste oil can cause skin cancer.
        the seat of the filling port                       Moreover, waste oil is environmentally
                                                           harmful.                                      N   Refill the chain oil tank every time
N       Continue to turn the filler cap                                                                      you refuel.
        counterclockwise (approx. 1/4 turn)
        – this will twist the base of the cap                   NOTICE                                   Take care not to spill chain oil while
        into the correct position                                                                        refilling and do not overfill the tank.
                                                           Waste oil does not have the necessary
N       Turn the filler cap clockwise and                  lubricating properties and is unsuitable      STIHL recommends you use the STIHL
        close it – see section "Closing"                   for chain lubrication.                        filler nozzle for chain oil (special
                                                                                                         accessory).
                                                                                                         N   Close the filler cap.
                                                                                                         There must still be a small amount of oil
                                                                                                         in the oil tank when the fuel tank is
                                                                                                         empty.

28                                                                                   MS 210, MS 210 C, MS 230, MS 230 C, MS 250, MS 250 C
English

If the oil level in the tank does not go
down, the reason may be a fault in the oil   Checking Chain Lubrication                           Chain Brake
supply system: Check chain lubrication,
clean the oilways, contact your dealer
for assistance if necessary STIHL
recommends that you have servicing
and repair work carried out exclusively
by an authorized STIHL servicing
dealer.                                                                                           Locking the chain

                                                                                    143BA024 KN
                                             The saw chain must always throw off a
                                             small amount of oil.

                                                                                                                                         143BA011 KN
                                                  NOTICE
                                             Never operate your saw without chain
                                             lubrication. If the chain runs dry, the
                                             whole cutting attachment will be                     –   in an emergency
                                             irretrievably damaged within a very short
                                                                                                  –   when starting
                                             time. Always check chain lubrication and
                                             the oil level in the tank before starting            –   at idling speed
                                             work.
                                                                                                  The chain brake is activated by pushing
                                             Every new chain has to be broken in for              the hand guard toward the bar nose with
                                             about 2 to 3 minutes.                                your left hand – or by inertia in certain
                                                                                                  kickback situations: The chain is
                                             After breaking in the chain, check chain
                                                                                                  stopped and locked.
                                             tension and adjust if necessary – see
                                             "Checking Chain Tension".

MS 210, MS 210 C, MS 230, MS 230 C, MS 250, MS 250 C                                                                                    29
English

Releasing the chain brake                            The chain brake will operate only if the
                                                     hand guard has not been modified in any     Winter Operation
                                                     way.

                                                     Check operation of the chain brake

                                                     Before starting work: Run engine at idle
                                                     speed, engage the chain brake (push         At temperatures below +10°C
                                                     hand guard toward bar nose) and open
                                                     the throttle wide for no more than
                                                     3 seconds – the chain must not rotate.
                                                     The hand guard must be free from dirt
                                                     and move freely.

                                                     Chain brake maintenance

                                                                                                                                         208BA005 KN
                                                     The chain brake is subject to normal
                                       143BA012 KN

                                                     wear. It is necessary to have it serviced
                                                     and maintained regularly by trained
                                                                                                 N   Press down the throttle trigger
                                                     personnel. STIHL recommends that you            lockout and move the Master
                                                     have servicing and repair work carried
N    Pull the hand guard back toward the                                                             Control lever to choke closed l.
                                                     out exclusively by an authorized STIHL
     front handle,                                   servicing dealer. Maintain the following    N   Turn the knob above the rear handle
                                                     servicing intervals:                            90° counterclockwise.
     NOTICE                                                                                      N   Lift off the carburetor box cover
                                                     Full-time usage:         every 3
Always disengage chain brake before                                           months                 vertically.
accelerating the engine (except when                 Part-time usage:         every 6
checking its operation) and before                                            months
starting cutting work.
                                                     Occasional usage:        every 12
High revs with the chain brake engaged                                        months
(chain locked) will quickly damage the
powerhead and chain drive (clutch,
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.

30                                                                            MS 210, MS 210 C, MS 230, MS 230 C, MS 250, MS 250 C
English

                                                                                                              Setting the Master Control Lever
                                                       Starting / Stopping the
                                                       Engine
                                                                                                              To move the Master Control lever from
                                                                                                              the normal run position (F) to choke
                                                       Positions of Master Control Lever
                                                                                                              closed (l), press down the throttle
                                                                                                              trigger lockout and squeeze the throttle
                                                                                                              trigger at the same time and hold them in
                                                                                                              that position – now set the Master
                                                                                                              Control lever.
                                                                               STOP                           To select the starting throttle
                                                                                                              position (n), move the Master Control
                                                                                                              lever to choke closed (l) first, then

                                         135BA029 LÄ
                                                                  0                                           push it into the starting throttle
                                                                                                              position (n).
                                                                                                              The Master Control lever must be in the
                                                                                                              choke closed position (l) for the
                                                                                                              changeover to the starting throttle
                                                                                                              position (n).
N   Lift out the shutter (in front of spark                                                                   The Master Control lever moves from
    plug) vertically.                                                                                         the starting throttle position (n) to the
N   Turn the shutter 180°.                                                                                    run position (F) when you press down

                                                                                                001BA140 KN
                                                                                                              the throttle trigger lockout and blip the
N   Refit the shutter.
                                                                                                              throttle trigger at the same time.
N   Refit the carburetor box cover and
                                                                                                              To switch off the engine, move the
    secure it with the knob.                           Stop 0 – engine off – the ignition is                  Master Control lever to Stop (0).
Heated air is now drawn in from around                 switched off
the cylinder to warm the carburetor – this             Normal run position (F) – engine runs or               Choke shutter closed (l)
helps prevent carburetor icing.                        can fire.                                              –   if the engine is cold
                                                       Starting throttle (n) – this position is               –   If the engine stalls when you open
     NOTICE                                            used to start a warm engine. The Master                    the throttle after starting.
                                                       Control lever moves to the normal run
At temperatures above + 20°C, always                                                                          –   If the fuel tank was run until empty
                                                       position as soon as the throttle trigger is
close the shutter again. This is                                                                                  (engine stopped).
                                                       squeezed.
necessary to avoid engine running
problems and overheating.                              Choke shutter closed (l) – this position               Starting throttle position (n)
                                                       is used to start a cold engine.
                                                                                                              –   If the engine is warm, i.e. if it has
                                                                                                                  been running for about one minute.
                                                                                                              –   After engine begins to fire,
                                                                                                              –   after clearing a flooded combustion
                                                                                                                  chamber.

MS 210, MS 210 C, MS 230, MS 230 C, MS 250, MS 250 C                                                                                                 31
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