STIHL MS 231, 251 Instruction Manual

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STIHL MS 231, 251   Instruction Manual
English

                                                               Contents

                                                               Guide to Using this Manual           2   Maintaining and Sharpening the                                      Dear Customer,
                                                               Safety Precautions                   3   Saw Chain                                                 39        Thank you for choosing a quality
                                                               Reactive Forces                      8   Maintenance and Care                                      43        engineered STIHL product.
                                                                                                        Minimize Wear and Avoid Damage                            45
Original Instruction Manual

                                                               Working Techniques                   9                                                                       It has been built using modern
                                                               Cutting Attachment                  18   Main Parts                                                46        production techniques and
                                                                                                        Specifications                                            47        comprehensive quality assurance.
                                                               Mounting the Bar and Chain (side
                                                                                                                                                                            Every effort has been made to ensure
                                                               chain tensioner)                    18   Ordering Spare Parts                                      48
                                                                                                                                                                            your satisfaction and trouble-free use of
                                                               Mounting the Bar and Chain (quick        Maintenance and Repairs                                   49        the product.
                                                               chain tensioner)                    19   Disposal                                                  49
                                                                                                                                                                            Please contact your dealer or our sales
                                                               Tensioning the Saw Chain (side           EC Declaration of Conformity                              49        company if you have any queries
                                                               chain tensioner)                    21
Printing inks contain vegetable oils, paper can be recycled.

                                                                                                                                                                            concerning this product.
                                                               Tensioning the Saw Chain (quick
                                                               chain tensioner)                    22                                                                       Your
                                                               Checking Chain Tension              22
                                                               Fuel                                22
                                                               Fueling                             23
                                                               Chain Lubricant                     25
Printed on chlorine-free paper

                                                               Filling Chain Oil Tank              25                                                                       Dr. Nikolas Stihl
                                                               Checking Chain Lubrication          26
                                                               Chain Brake                         26
                                                               Winter Operation                    27
                                                               Starting / Stopping the Engine      28
                                                               Operating Instructions              32
                                                               Taking Care of the Guide Bar        33
                                                               Shroud                              34
                                                               Air Filter System                   34
© ANDREAS STIHL AG & Co. KG, 2020

                                                               Cleaning the Air Filter             35
                                                               Adjusting the Carburetor            36
                                                               Spark Plug                          37
0458-737-0121-B. VB0.J20.

                                                               Storing the Machine                 38
0000006607_011_GB

                                                               Checking and Replacing the Chain
                                                               Sprocket                            38

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

                                                               MS 231, MS 231 C, MS 251, MS 251 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 231, MS 231 C, MS 251, MS 251 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 231, MS 231 C, MS 251, MS 251 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 231, MS 231 C, MS 251, MS 251 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 231, MS 231 C, MS 251, MS 251 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 231, MS 231 C, MS 251, MS 251 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 231, MS 231 C, MS 251, MS 251 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 231, MS 231 C, MS 251, MS 251 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 231, MS 231 C, MS 251, MS 251 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 231, MS 231 C, MS 251, MS 251 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 inclination of the tree
    compression side (1)
                                                      Cutting technique in which the spiked                   –   Unusually heavy limb structure,
N   Make bucking cut at the tension                                                                               asymmetrical growth, damage to
                                                      bumper is not used – risk of pull-in – start
    side (2)                                                                                                      tree
                                                      the cut with the guide bar at the
Be wary of pushback when making                       shallowest possible angle – take extra                  –   The wind direction and speed – do
bucking cut from the bottom upwards                   care since there is an increased danger                     not fell in high winds
(underbuck).                                          of kickback.
                                                                                                              –   Direction of slope

     NOTICE                                           Preparing for felling                                   –   Neighboring trees

Do not cut a lying log at a point where it                                                                    –   Snow load
is touching the ground because the saw                Check that there are no other persons in                –   Take the general condition of the
chain will otherwise be damaged.                      the felling area – other than helpers.                      tree into account – be especially
                                                      Make sure no-one is endangered by the                       careful with trunk damage or
                                                      falling tree – the noise of your engine                     deadwood (brittle, rotten or dead
                                                      may drown any warning calls.                                wood)

MS 231, MS 231 C, MS 251, MS 251 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 the felling notch
                                                           brush to provide a secure footing.
                                                       –   Carefully clear the base of the trunk
                                                           (e.g., with an axe) – sand, stones
                                  45°                      and other foreign objects will blunt
                                                           the saw chain
          A                                                                                                            C
                                  45°

                                                                                                 001BA146 KN
                                         001BA040 KN
                               B

                                                                                                                            C
                                                       –   Remove largest buttresses: first the
A    Direction of fall

                                                                                                                                                       001BA271 KN
                                                           largest buttress – saw first vertically,
B    Escape path (escape routes)                           then horizontally – only if the tree is
–    Establish escape paths for each                       in sound condition
     worker – approx. 45° diagonally
                                                                                                               The felling notch (C) determines the
     opposite to the direction of fall
                                                                                                               direction of fall.
–    Clear escape paths, eliminate
                                                                                                               Important:
     obstacles
                                                                                                               –   Make a felling notch at right angle to
–    Put down tools and equipment at a
                                                                                                                   direction of fall
     safe distance – but not on the
     escape paths                                                                                              –   Saw as close to the ground as
                                                                                                                   possible
–    When felling, stand only to the side
     of the falling trunk and only move                                                                        –   Cut to a depth of approx. 1/5 to 1/3
     back laterally onto the escape path                                                                           of the diameter of the trunk
–    Plan escape paths on slopes
     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 231, MS 231 C, MS 251, MS 251 C
English

Determine direction of fall with gunning                 Checking the direction of fall                        felling notch to a depth of about 1/10 of
sight on cover 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
                                                                                                               Basic dimensions

                                                         N   Insert the chainsaw with guide bar in
Your chainsaw has a gunning sight on                         the bottom of the felling notch. The
the cover and fan housing. Use this                          gunning sight must point in the
gunning sight.                                               planned direction of fall – if
                                                             necessary, correct direction of fall
Making the felling notch                                                                                               C
                                                             by re-cutting the felling notch.                                                        1/10
When making a felling notch, align the                                                                                                                  Ø
chainsaw so that the notch lies at a right               Sapwood cuts
angle to the direction of fall.
During the procedure, various
sequences are permitted for making a
felling notch with a bottom (horizontal)
cut and top (angled) cut – comply with
                                                                                                                           C          E
national legislation regarding felling
technique.

                                                                                                                                                          001BA259 KN
N   Make a bottom (horizontal) cut                                                                                                             G
N   Make the top (angled) cut
    approx. 45°- 60° to the bottom cut
                                                                                                               The felling notch (C) determines the
                                                                                                               direction of fall.
                                                                                                               The hinge (D) functions like a real hinge
                                                                                                               to guide the tree to the ground.
                                                                                                               –   Width of hinge: approx. 1/10 of the
                                                                                                                   trunk diameter
                                                                                                 001BA150 KN

                                                                                                               –   Never saw through the hinge while
                                                                                                                   felling – otherwise the tree will fall in
                                                                                                                   a direction other than the one
                                                         Sapwood cuts in long-fibered softwood                     planned – risk of accident!
                                                         help prevent sapwood splintering when
                                                         the tree falls. Make cuts at both sides of            –   With rotten trunks, leave a wider
                                                         the trunk at same height as bottom of                     hinge

MS 231, MS 231 C, MS 251, MS 251 C                                                                                                                       13
English

The tree is felled with the felling cut (E).            1.   Begin cut by applying the lower                     Select suitable felling wedges
                                                             portion of the guide bar nose – do                  dependent on the trunk diameter and the
–    Cut horizontally
                                                             not use upper portion because of                    width of the kerf (analogue to felling cut
–    1/10 (at least 3 cm) of tree diameter                   risk of kickback. Cut at full strength              (E)).
     higher than bottom of felling                           until the depth of the kerf is twice the
                                                                                                                 Contact the STIHL dealer for the
     notch (C).                                              width of the guide bar
                                                                                                                 selection of the felling wedge (suitable
The holding strap (F) or stabilizing                    2.   Swing the machine slowly into the                   length, width and height).
strap (G) supports the tree and helps                        plunge cutting position – risk of
prevent it from falling prematurely.                         kickback and pushback!                              Selecting the appropriate felling cut
–    Width of strip: approx. 1/10 to 1/5 of             3.   Make the plunge cut very carefully.
     the trunk diameter                                      Risk of pushback.                                   The selection of the appropriate felling
–    Do not cut into the strip during the                                                                        cut is dependent on the same tree
     felling cut                                                                                                 characteristics that must be noted when
                                                                                                                 determining the direction of fall and the
–    With rotten trunks, leave a wider                                                                           escape paths.
     strip
                                                                                                                 There are various different features of
Plunge cutting                                                                                                   these characteristics. This User Manual

                                                                                                   001BA270 KN
–    For relieving cuts during shortening                                                                        will only describe the two most
                                                                                                                 commonly occurring variants:
–    For wood carving

                                                        Where possible, use a plunge blade.
                                                        The plunge blade and the upper/lower
                                                        side of the guide bar are parallel.
                                                        During plunge cutting, the plunge bar
                                                        helps to keep the hinge parallel in form,

                                                                                                                                                         001BA260 KN
                                                        i.e. the same thickness at all points. To
                                                        do this, guide the plunge bar parallel to
                                                        the sink chord.
                                                        Felling wedges                                           left:     Normal tree – vertically
                                                                                                                           upright tree with uniform
                                                        Insert the felling wedge as soon as
                                                                                                                           crown
          1.                                            possible, i.e. as soon as no obstruction
                                                        of saw control is to be expected. Position               right:    Leaner tree - crown pointing in
                                                        the felling wedge in the felling cut and                           direction of fall
                                3.
                                                        drive in with suitable tools.
               2.
                                          001BA269 KN

                                                        Only use aluminum or plastic wedges –
                                                        do not use steel wedges. Steel wedges
                                                        can seriously damage the saw chain and
N    Use a low kickback saw chain and                   cause dangerous kickback.
     proceed with special care

14                                                                                                               MS 231, MS 231 C, MS 251, MS 251 C
English

Felling cut with stabilizing strap (normal            –   Do not cut into the stabilizing strap
tree)

A) Thin trunks                                                                                                                      1.

Implement this felling cut when the trunk                                                                                      2.
                                                                                                                                              3.
diameter is smaller than the cutting
length of the chainsaw.

                                                                                 3.

                                                                                                                              4.         5.

                                                                                                                                                        001BA263 KN
                     1.
                            2.

                                                                                               001BA273 KN
                                                                                                             Shout a warning before starting the
                                                                                                             felling cut.
                                                      N   Set the felling wedge (3)
                                                                                                             N   Engage the spiked bumper at the
                                                      Shout a second warning immediately
                                                                                                                 height of the felling cut and use this
                                                      before the tree falls.
                                                                                                                 as the rotation point – reposition the
                                        001BA261 KN

                                                      N   Cut through the stabilizing strap,                     chainsaw as little as possible
                                                          horizontal level with the felling cut,
                                                                                                             N   Tip of the guide bar must penetrate
                                                          with arms fully extended
                                                                                                                 the wood before the hinge (1) –
Shout a warning before starting the                   B) Thick trunks                                            guide the chainsaw absolutely
felling cut.                                                                                                     horizontally and swivel as widely as
                                                      Implement this felling cut when the trunk
N   Plunge cut the felling cut (E) –                  diameter is greater than the cutting                       possible
    plunge the guide bar fully in                     length of the machine.                                 N   Make the felling cut up to the
N   Engage the spiked bumper behind                                                                              hinge (2)
    the hinge and use this as the                                                                            –   Do not cut into the hinge
    rotation point – reposition the
    chainsaw as little as possible                                                                           N   Make the felling cut up to the
                                                                                                                 stabilizing strap (3)
N   Make the felling cut up to the
    hinge (1)                                                                                                –   Do not cut into the stabilizing strap
–   Do not cut into the hinge                                                                                The felling cut must be continued on the
                                                                                                             opposite side of the trunk.
N   Make the felling cut up to the
    stabilizing strap (2)                                                                                    Ensure that the second cut is at the
                                                                                                             same level as the first cut.

MS 231, MS 231 C, MS 251, MS 251 C                                                                                                                     15
English

N    Plunge cut the felling cut
N    Make the felling cut up to the
     hinge (4)
–    Do not cut into the hinge
N    Make the felling cut up to the
     stabilizing strap (5)                                                1.     2.

–    Do not cut into the stabilizing strap

                                                                                                                                                    001BA266 KN
                                                                                                 001BA265 KN
                              6.

                                                        N   Plunge cut the guide bar into the                  Shout a second warning immediately
                                                            trunk until it exits on the other side             before the tree falls.
                                                        N   Make the felling cut (E) towards the               N   With outstretched arms, cut through
                                                            hinge (1)                                              the holding strap at a downward
                                                                                                                   angle from outside.
                                                        –   Cut horizontally
                                          001BA274 KN

                                                        –   Do not cut into the hinge
                                                        N   Make the felling cut towards the
N    Set the felling wedge (6)                              holding strap (2)

Shout a second warning immediately                      –   Cut horizontally
before the tree falls.                                  –   Do not cut into the holding strap.
N    Cut through the stabilizing strap,
     horizontal level with the felling cut,
     with arms fully extended

Felling Cut with Holding Strap (Leaner)

A) Thin trunks
Implement this felling cut when the trunk
diameter is smaller than the cutting
length of the chainsaw.

16                                                                                                             MS 231, MS 231 C, MS 251, MS 251 C
English

B) Thick trunks                                        The felling cut must be continued on the               N   With outstretched arms, cut through
                                                       opposite side of the trunk.                                the holding strap at a downward
                                                                                                                  angle from outside.
                                                       Ensure that the second cut is at the
                                                       same level as the first cut.

                            1.                         N   Engage the spiked bumper behind
                  2.             3.                        the hinge and use this as the
                                                           rotation point – reposition the
                                                           chainsaw as little as possible
                                                       N   Tip of the guide bar must penetrate
                                                           the wood before the holding strap
                                                           (4) – guide the chainsaw absolutely
                                                           horizontally and swivel as widely as
                                                           possible
                  5.             6.                    N   Make the felling cut up to the
                       4.
                                                           hinge (5)
                                         001BA267 KN

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

–
N   Make the felling cut up to the
    holding strap (3)
–   Do not cut into the holding strap.                 Shout a second warning immediately
                                                       before the tree falls.

MS 231, MS 231 C, MS 251, MS 251 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

                                                                                                                                                   533BA001 KN
                                                      scabbard that matches the cutting
                                        001BA248 KN   attachment.

               a                    3                 If guide bars of different lengths are
                                                                                                          N   Unscrew the nut and remove 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 231, MS 231 C, MS 251, MS 251 C
English

Disengage the chain brake.
                                                                                                               Mounting the Bar and Chain
                                                                                                               (quick 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                                           1
                                                          bar must point to the right.                                         3                  2

                                                                                                                                                            2310BA013 KN
N   Pull the hand guard towards the
    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)

MS 231, MS 231 C, MS 251, MS 251 C                                                                                                                     19
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)
                                                                                               181BA012 KN

                                                                           1

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

20                                                                                                           MS 231, MS 231 C, MS 251, MS 251 C
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

                                                                                                                                           142BA063 KN
                                                           Chain"
                                                                                                        1

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

                                                                                                    N   Loosen the nut.
                                                                                                    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 nut 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,

MS 231, MS 231 C, MS 251, MS 251 C                                                                                                         21
English

Tensioning the Saw Chain                              Checking Chain Tension                                 Fuel
(quick chain tensioner)
                                                                                                             Your engine requires a mixture of
                                                                                                             gasoline and engine oil.
                      1
                                                                                                                  WARNING
                  2                                                                                          For health reasons, avoid direct skin

                                                                                               142BA064 KN
                                        001BA112 KN
                                                                                                             contact with gasoline and avoid inhaling
                                                                                                             gasoline vapor.

                                                                                                             STIHL MotoMix
Retensioning during cutting work:                     N   Shut off the engine.
N    Shut off the engine.                             N   Wear work gloves to protect your
                                                                                                             STIHL recommends the use of STIHL
                                                          hands.
N    Pull out the hinged clip and loosen                                                                     MotoMix. This ready-to-use fuel mix
     the wingnut.                                     N   The chain must fit snugly against                  contains no benzol or lead, has a high
                                                          the underside of the bar and it must               octane rating and ensures that you
N    Turn the adjusting wheel (1)
                                                          still be possible to pull the chain                always use the right mix ratio.
     clockwise as far as stop.
                                                          along the bar by hand when the
                                                                                                             STIHL MotoMix uses STIHL HP Ultra
N    Tighten down the wingnut (2) firmly                  chain brake is released.
                                                                                                             two-stroke engine oil for an extra long
     by hand.
                                                      N   If necessary, retension the chain.                 engine life.
N    Fold down the hinged clip.
                                                      A new chain has to be retensioned more                 MotoMix is not available in all markets.
N    Go to "Checking Chain Tension"                   often than one that has been in use for
                                                      some time.                                             Mixing Fuel
A new chain has to be retensioned more
often than one that has been in use for               N   Check chain tension frequently –
some time.                                                see chapter on "Operating
                                                          Instructions".                                          NOTICE
N    Check chain tension frequently –
     see chapter on "Operating                                                                               Unsuitable fuels or lubricants or mix
     Instructions".                                                                                          ratios other than those specified may
                                                                                                             result in serious damage to the engine.
                                                                                                             Poor quality gasoline or engine oil may
                                                                                                             damage the engine, sealing rings, hoses
                                                                                                             and the fuel tank.

                                                                                                             Gasoline
                                                                                                             Use only high-quality brand-name
                                                                                                             gasoline with a minimum octane rating
                                                                                                             of 90 – leaded or unleaded.

22                                                                                                           MS 231, MS 231 C, MS 251, MS 251 C
English

Gasoline with an ethanol content of            Storing Fuel
more than 10% can cause running                                                             Fueling
problems in engines with a manually
adjustable carburetor and should not be        Store fuel only in approved safety-type
used in such engines.                          fuel canisters in a dry, cool and safe
                                               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
ethanol content of up to 25% (E25).            for a few weeks work. Do not store fuel
                                               mix for longer than 30 days. Exposure to     Preparing the machine
Engine Oil                                     light, the sun, low or high temperatures
                                               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
high-performance engine oil in                 2 years without any problems.
accordance with JASO FB, JASO FC,              N   Thoroughly shake the mixture in the
JASO FD, ISO-L-EGB, ISO-L-EGC or                   canister before fueling your
ISO-L-EGD.                                         machine.

                                                                                                                                   001BA229 KN
STIHL specifies STIHL HP Ultra two-
stroke engine oil or an equivalent high-            WARNING
performance engine oil in order to
                                               Pressure may build up in the canister –      N   Before fueling, clean the cap and
maintain emission limits over the
                                               open it carefully.                               the area around it to ensure that no
machine’s service life.
                                                                                                dirt falls into the fuel tank
                                               N   Clean the fuel tank and canister
Mix Ratio                                          from time to time.                       N   Always position the machine so that
STIHL 50:1 two-stroke engine oil: 50                                                            the cap is facing upwards
                                               Dispose of remaining fuel and cleaning
parts gasoline to 1 part oil                   fluid properly in accordance with local
                                               regulations and environmental                Opening
Examples                                       requirements.
Gasoline        STIHL engine oil 50:1
Liters          Liters  (ml)
1               0.02    (20)
5               0.10    (100)
10              0.20    (200)

                                                                                                                                   001BA236 KN
15              0.30    (300)
20              0.40    (400)
25              0.50    (500)
                                                                                            N   Raise grip to vertical position.
N   Use a canister approved for storing
    fuel. Pour oil into canister first, then
    add gasoline and mix thoroughly.

MS 231, MS 231 C, MS 251, MS 251 C                                                                                                 23
English

                                                          Closing

                                         001BA232 KN

                                                                                                                                                          001BA235 KN
                                                                                                  001BA234 KN
N    Turn the cap counterclockwise                                                                              N   Fold the grip down.
     (about a quarter turn).
                                                          Grip must be vertical:
                                                          N   Fit the cap – marks on tank cap and
                                                              fuel tank must line up.
                                                          N   Press the cap down as far as stop.

                                                                                                                                                          001BA241 KN
                                            001BA234 KN

                                                                                                                Tank cap is locked.
Marks on tank cap and fuel tank must
line up.                                                                                                        If the tank cap cannot be locked in the

                                                                                                  001BA233 KN
                                                                                                                fuel tank opening

                                                                                                                Bottom of cap is twisted in relation to
                                                          N   While holding the cap depressed,                  top.
                                                              turn it clockwise until it engages in
                                                              position.                                         N   Remove the cap from the fuel tank
                                            001BA237 KN

                                                                                                                    and check it from above.

N    Remove the tank cap.

Filling Up with Fuel
                                                                                                  001BA231 KN

Take care not to spill fuel while fueling
and do not overfill the tank.
                                                          The marks on the tank cap and fuel tank
STIHL recommends you use the STIHL
                                                          are then in alignment.
filler nozzle for fuel (special accessory).
N    Fill the fuel tank.

24                                                                                                              MS 231, MS 231 C, MS 251, MS 251 C
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:     Bottom of cap is twisted –
          inner mark (1) in line with                        NOTICE
          outer mark.
                                                        Biological chain oil must be resistant to
Right:    Bottom of cap in correct posi-
                                                        aging (e.g. STIHL BioPlus), since it will
          tion – inner mark is under the
                                                        otherwise quickly turn to resin. This
          grip. It is not in line with the
                                                        results in hard deposits that are difficult
          outer mark.

                                                                                                                                                 001BA158 KN
                                                        to remove, especially in the area of the
                                                        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
                                          001BA239 KN

                                                                                                      N   Position the machine so that the
                                                        lubricant.
                                                                                                          filler cap is facing up.

                                                             WARNING                                  N   Open the filler cap.
N   Place the cap on the opening and
    rotate it counterclockwise until it                 Do not use waste oil. Renewed contact         Fill up with chain oil.
    engages the filler neck.                            with waste oil can cause skin cancer.
                                                        Moreover, waste oil is environmentally
N   Continue rotating the cap                                                                             Refill the chain oil tank every time
                                                        harmful.                                      N
    counterclockwise (about a quarter                                                                     you refuel.
    turn) – this causes the bottom of the
    cap to be turned to the correct                          NOTICE                                   Take care not to spill chain oil while
    position.                                                                                         refilling and do not overfill the tank.
                                                        Waste oil does not have the necessary
N   Turn the cap clockwise and lock it in               lubricating properties and is unsuitable      STIHL recommends you use the STIHL
    position – see section on "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.

MS 231, MS 231 C, MS 251, MS 251 C                                                                                                              25
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".

26                                                                                                MS 231, MS 231 C, MS 251, MS 251 C
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         Pre-heating carburetor
                                                     hand guard toward bar nose) and open
                                                     the throttle wide for no more than
                                                     3 seconds – the chain must not rotate.      N   Remove the shroud – see "Shroud"
                                                     The hand guard must be free from dirt
                                                                                                 At temperatures below +10 °C
                                                     and move freely.

                                                     Chain brake maintenance

                                                     The chain brake is subject to normal
                                       143BA012 KN

                                                     wear. It is necessary to have it serviced

                                                                                                                                         2310BA000 KN
                                                     and maintained regularly by trained
                                                     personnel. STIHL recommends that you
                                                     have servicing and repair work carried
N   Pull the hand guard back toward the              out exclusively by an authorized STIHL
    front handle,                                    servicing dealer. Maintain the following    N   Using a screwdriver, pry the shutter
                                                     servicing intervals:                            out of the s (summer operation)
                                                                                                     position
     NOTICE
                                                     Full-time usage:         every 3
Always disengage chain brake before                                           months
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

                                                                                                                                        2310BA001 KN
(chain locked) will quickly damage the
powerhead and chain drive (clutch,
chain brake).
The chain brake is also activated by the                                                         N   Place the shutter with the opening in
inertia of the front hand guard if the                                                               the direction of the chain saw in
kickback force of the saw is high                                                                    the r position (winter operation) –
enough: The hand guard is accelerated                                                                shutter must audibly snap into place
toward the bar nose – even if your left
                                                                                                 N   Fit the shroud – see "Shroud"
hand is not behind the hand guard, e.g.
during felling cut.

MS 231, MS 231 C, MS 251, MS 251 C                                                                                                     27
English

Heated air is now drawn in from around                                                               Setting the Master Control Lever
the cylinder and circulates around the        Starting / Stopping the
carburetor – this helps prevent               Engine
carburetor icing.                                                                                    To move the Master Control lever from
                                                                                                     the normal run position (F) to choke
                                              Positions of Master Control Lever
At temperatures above +20 °C                                                                         closed (l), press down the throttle
                                                                                                     trigger lockout and squeeze the throttle
N    Ensure that the shutter is always                                                               trigger at the same time and hold them in
     returned to position s (summer                                                                  that position – now set the Master
     operation), otherwise the engine                                                                Control lever.
     may malfunction due to overheating
                                                                      STOP                           To select the starting throttle
                                                                                                     position (n), move the Master Control
At temperatures below -10 °C
                                                                                                     lever to choke closed (l) first, then
                                                                                                     push it into the starting throttle
N    if the chain saw is extremely cold
                                                         0                                           position (n).
     (frost formation) – after starting,
                                                                                                     The Master Control lever must be in the
     bring the engine up to operating
                                                                                                     choke closed position (l) for the
     temperature at increased idle speed
                                                                                                     changeover to the starting throttle
     (disengage chain brake!)
                                                                                                     position (n).
In case of erratic idling behavior or poor
                                                                                                     The Master Control lever moves from
acceleration
                                                                                                     the starting throttle position (n) to the
N    Turn the low speed screw (L)                                                                    run position (F) when you press down

                                                                                       001BA140 KN
     1/4 turn counterclockwise                                                                       the throttle trigger lockout and blip the
                                                                                                     throttle trigger at the same time.
Whenever the low speed screw (L) has
been adjusted, it is usually also                                                                    To switch off the engine, move the
necessary to adjust the idle speed            Stop 0 – engine off – the ignition is                  Master Control lever to Stop (0).
adjusting screw (LA), see "Setting the        switched off
carburetor".                                  Normal run position F – engine runs or                 Choke shutter closed (l)
                                              can fire.                                              –   if the engine is cold
Air filter system
                                              Starting throttlen – this position is used             –   if the engine stalls when you open
                                              to start a warm engine. The Master                         the throttle after starting.
N    Retrofit new air filter if necessary –   Control lever moves to the normal run
                                              position as soon as the throttle trigger is            –   if the fuel tank was run until empty
     see "Air filter system"
                                              squeezed.                                                  (engine stopped).

                                              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.
                                                                                                     –   When the engine begins to fire
                                                                                                     –   after clearing a flooded combustion
                                                                                                         chamber.

28                                                                                                   MS 231, MS 231 C, MS 251, MS 251 C
English

Fuel pump                                  On the ground                                          Between knees or thighs

Press the manual fuel pump bulb
several times – even if the bulb is
already filled with fuel:
–   When starting for the first time.
–   if the fuel tank was run until empty
    (engine stopped).

Holding the Saw

There are two ways of holding the saw
when starting.

                                                                                   2310BA008 KN

                                                                                                                                        2310BA009 KN
                                           N   Place your saw on the ground.                      N   Hold the rear handle tightly between
                                               Make sure you have a firm footing –                    your legs, just above the knees.
                                               check that the chain is not touching
                                                                                                  N   Hold the front handle firmly with
                                               any object or the ground.
                                                                                                      your left hand – your thumb should
                                           N   Hold the saw firmly on the ground                      be under the handle.
                                               with your left hand on the front
                                               handle – your thumb should be
                                               under the handle.
                                           N   Put your right foot into the rear
                                               handle and press down.

MS 231, MS 231 C, MS 251, MS 251 C                                                                                                     29
English

Cranking                                               Versions with ErgoStart                      Starting the Saw

                                                            WARNING
Standard versions
                                                       This machine is extremely simple and             WARNING
                                                       easy to start, even for children – risk of   Bystanders must be well clear of the
                                                       accidents.                                   general work area of the saw.
                                                       Do not allow children or other               N   Observe safety precautions.
                                                       unauthorized persons to attempt to start
                                                       or otherwise use the machine:                Versions with manual fuel pump
                                                       –   Never leave the machine
                                                           unattended during work breaks.
                                                       –   After work, store the machine in a
                                                           safe, secure location.
                                                       The ErgoStart stores the energy

                                                                                                                                            2310BA021 KN
                                                       required to start the saw. For this reason
                                                       there may be a delay of a few seconds
                                                       between cranking the engine and it
                                                       actually starting.
                                                                                                        Press the manual fuel pump bulb at
                                         231BA010 KN

                                                                                                    N
                                                       There are two ways of starting with the          least five times – even if the bulb is
                                                       ErgoStart:                                       already filled with fuel.

N    Pull the starter grip slowly with your            N   Hold the starter grip with your right
     right hand until you feel it engage –                 hand and pull it out slowly and
     and then give it a brisk strong pull                  steadily – or – hold the starter grip
     and push down the front handle at                     with your right hand and give it
     the same time. Do not pull out the                    several short pulls, using only a
     starter rope to full length – it might                short length of rope for each pull.
     otherwise break. Do not let the                   N   Push down the handle while
     starter grip snap back. Guide it                      cranking. Do not pull out the rope to
     slowly back into the housing so that                  its full length – it might otherwise
     the starter rope can rewind properly.                 break.
Machines without additional manual fuel                N   Do not let the starter grip snap back.
pump: If the engine is new or after a long                 Guide it slowly back into the housing
out-of-service period, it may be                           so that the starter rope can rewind
necessary to pull the starter rope several                 properly.
times to prime the fuel system.

30                                                                                                  MS 231, MS 231 C, MS 251, MS 251 C
English

All models                                               When engine begins to fire

                                                                                           STOP

                                                                                                                                                        001BA186 KN
                                                                            4               0
                           0

                                                                                                  2310BA003 KN
    1                                                                                                            N   Pull the hand guard back towards
                                                                                                                     the front handle.
                                                         N   Set the Master Control lever (4) to                 The chain brake is now disengaged –
                                                             the starting throttle position (n).                 your saw is ready for operation.

                            4         2                  N   Hold and start your saw as
                                                             described.                                               NOTICE
                                                                                                                 Always disengage chain brake before
                                          2310BA002 KN

                                  3                      As soon as the engine runs                              accelerating the engine. High revs with
                                                                                                                 the chain brake engaged (chain locked)
                                                                                                                 will quickly damage the clutch and chain
N   Push the hand guard (1) forward –                                                      STOP                  brake.
    the chain is locked.
                                                                                                                 At very low outside temperatures
N   Press down the trigger lockout (2)                                     4                0
    and pull the throttle trigger (3) at the
    same time. Set Master Control

                                                                                                  2310BA004 KN
                                                                                                                 N   Allow engine to warm up at part
    lever (4) to:                                                           3                                        throttle.
Choke shutter closed (l)                                                                                         N   Change over to winter operation if
–   if the engine is cold (also use this                                                                             necessary – see “Winter Operation”.
                                                         N   Press down trigger lockout and the
    position if the engine stopped when                      blip the throttle trigger (3) – the
    you opened the throttle after                            Master Control lever (4) moves to                   Stopping the engine
    starting)                                                the run position (F) and the engine
Starting throttle position (n)                               settles down to idling speed.                       N   Move the Master Control lever to the
                                                                                                                     stop position (0).
–   if the engine is warm, i.e. if it has
    been running for about one minute.                        NOTICE
                                                                                                                 If the engine does not start
N   Hold and start your saw as                           As the chain brake is still engaged, the
    described.                                           engine must be returned to idling speed
                                                         immediately – or the engine housing and                 If you did not move the Master Control
                                                         chain brake might otherwise be                          lever from the choke closed
                                                         damaged.                                                position (l) to the starting throttle

MS 231, MS 231 C, MS 251, MS 251 C                                                                                                                     31
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