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STIHL031 With Safety Manual2
STIHL031 With Safety Manual2
STIHL031 With Safety Manual2
STIH)
Contents
4. Use caution when handling fuel. 10. Do not operate a chainsaw that is 17. All chainsaw service, other than the
Move the chainsaw at least 10 feet damaged, improperly adjusted, or items listed in the Owner's Manual
(3 m) from the fueling point before not completely and securely maintenance instructions, should be
starting the engine. assembled. Be sure that the saw performed by competent chainsaw
5. Do not allow other persons to be chain stops moving when the service personnel.(For example, if
near the chainsaw when starting or throttle trigger is released. improper tools are used to remove
cutting with the chainsaw. Keep 11. Shut off the engine before setting the flywheel or if an improper tool is
bystanders and animals out of the the chainsaw down. used to hold the flywheel in order to
work area. remove the clutch, structural
12. Use extreme caution when cutting
damage to the flywheel could occur
6. Do not start cutting until you have a small size brush and saplings
and could subsequently cause the
clear work area, secure footing, and because slender material may catch
flywheel to burst).
a planned retreat path from the the saw chain and be whipped
falling tree. toward you or pull you off balance. 18. When transporting your chainsaw,
use the appropriate chain guard
7. Keep all parts of your body away 13. When cutting a limb that is under
(scabbard).
from the saw chain when the engine tension be alert for springback so
is running. that you will not be struck when the Other important safety precautions are
tension in the wood fibers is contained in the body of the Owner's
8. Before you start the engine, make
released. Manual especially in the General Safety
sure that the saw chain is not
Precautions.
contacting anything. 14. Keep the handles dry, clean, and
9. Carry the chainsaw with the engine free of oil or fuel mixture. Note:
stopped, the guide bar and saw 15. Operate the chainsaw only in well- When using a chainsaw for logging
chain to the rear, and the muffler ventilated areas. purposes, refer to the Code of Federal
away from your body. 16. Do not operate a chainsaw in a tree Regulations, Parts 1910 and 1928.
unless you have been specifically
trained to do so.
Safety Precautions
The use of any chainsaw Have your STIHL dealer show you how Safe use of a chainsaw involves
may be hazardous. The to operate your chainsaw. Observe all
1. the operator
saw chain has many applicable local safety regulations,
sharp cutters. If the standards and ordinances. 2. the saw
cutters contact your flesh, 3. the use of the saw.
they will cut you, even if !Warning!
the chain is not moving. At full throttle, Minors should never be allowed to use a
the chain speed can reach 45 mph chainsaw. Bystanders, especially
THE OPERATOR
(20 m/s). It is important that you read, children, and animals should not be Physical Condition
fully understand and observe the allowed in the area where a chainsaw is
You must be in good physical condition
following safety precautions and in use. Never let the saw run
and mental health and not under the
warnings. Read the Owner's Manual unattended. Store it in a locked place
influence of any substance (drugs,
and the Safety Precautions periodically. away from children and empty the fuel
alcohol) which might impair vision,
tank before storing for longer than a few
Pay special attention to the section on dexterity or judgement.
days.
reactive forces.
Do not operate a chainsaw when you
Do not lend or rent your
!Warning! chainsaw without the
are fatigued. Be alert - If you get tired
while operating your chainsaw, take a
Reactive forces, including kickback, can Owner`s Manual. Be sure
break. Tiredness may result in loss of
be dangerous. Careless or improper use that anyone using your
control. Working with any chainsaw can
of any chainsaw may cause serious or saw reads and
be strenuous. If you have any condition
fatal injury. understands the
that might be aggravated by strenuous
information contained in this manual.
All safety precautions that are generally work, check with your doctor before
observed when working with an axe or a These safety precautions and warnings operating a chainsaw.
hand saw also apply to the operation of apply to the use of all STIHL chainsaws.
chainsaws. However, because a Different models may have different !Warning!
chainsaw is a high-speed, fast-cutting parts and controls. See the appropriate Prolonged use of chainsaws (or other
power tool, special safety precautions section of your Owner's Manual for a machines) exposing the operator to
must be observed to reduce the risk of description of the controls and function vibrations may produce whitefinger
personal injury. of the parts of your model saw. disease (Raynaud's phenomenon) or
carpal tunnel syndrome.
These conditions reduce the hand's – Keep the saw chain sharp and the Proper Clothing
ability to feel and regulate temperature, saw, including the AV system, well
produce numbness and burning maintained. A dull chain will in- !Warning!
sensations and may cause nerve and crease cutting time, and pressing a To reduce the risk of injury, the operator
circulation damage and tissue necrosis. dull chain through wood will in- should wear proper protective apparel.
crease the vibrations transmitted to
All factors which contribute to Clothing must be sturdy
your hands. A saw with loose
whitefinger disease are not known, but and snug-fitting, but allow
components or with damaged or
cold weather, smoking and diseases or complete freedom of
worn AV buffers will also tend to
physical conditions that affect blood movement. Avoid loose-
have higher vibration levels.
vessels and blood transport, as well as fitting jackets, scarfs,
high vibration levels and long periods of – Maintain a firm grip at all times, but neckties, jewelry, flared or
exposure to vibration are mentioned as do not squeeze the handles with cuffed pants, unconfined long hair or
factors in the development of whitefinger constant, excessive pressures. anything that could become entangled
disease. In order to reduce the risk of Take frequent breaks. with the saw or brush. Wear overalls or
whitefinger disease and carpal tunnel All the above mentioned precautions do jeans with a reinforced cut retardant
syndrome, please note the following: not guarantee that you will not sustain insert or cut retardant chaps.
– Many STIHL models are available whitefinger disease or carpal tunnel
with an anti-vibration (AV) system syndrome. Therefore, continual and
regular users should monitor closely the Protect your hands with
designed to reduce the
condition of their hands and fingers. If gloves when handling
transmission of vibrations created
any of the above symptoms appear, saw and saw chain.
by the engine and cutting
seek medical advice immediately. Heavy-duty, nonslip
attachment to the operator's hands.
gloves improve your grip
An AV system is recommended for !Warning! and protect your hands.
those persons using chainsaws on
a regular or sustained basis. The ignition system of your unit Good footing is most
produces an electromagnetic field of a important in chainsaw
– Wear gloves and keep your hands very low intensity. This field may inter-
warm. Heated handles, which are work. Wear sturdy boots
fere with some pacemakers. To reduce with nonslip soles. Steel-
available on most STIHL power- the risk of serious or fatal injury, persons
heads, are recommended for cold toed safety boots are
with pacemaker should consult their recommended.
weather use. physician and the pacemaker manu-
facturer before operating this tool. Never operate a chainsaw unless
wearing goggles or properly fitted safety
glasses with adequate top and side
protection complying with your national
standard.
001BA115 KN
chainsaw down or carrying it. Carrying a
or ear mufflers) to protect your hearing.
chainsaw with the engine running is
Continual and regular users should have
extremely dangerous.
their hearing checked regularly.
Accidental acceleration of the engine
can cause the chain to rotate. During The chain guard (scabbard) should be
THE SAW operation, the powerhead muffler and over the chain and the guide bar, which
the material around it reach extremely should point backwards. When carrying
Parts of the chainsaw; for illustrations
high temperatures. Avoid touching the your saw, the bar should be behind you.
and definitions of the parts see the
hot muffler, you could receive serious
chapter on "Main Parts of Saw". By vehicle: When transporting in a
burns.
vehicle, keep chain and bar covered with
!Warning! By hand: When carrying your saw by the chain guard. Properly secure your
Never modify a chainsaw in any way. hand, the engine must be stopped and saw to prevent turnover, fuel spillage
Only attachments and parts supplied by the saw must be in the proper position. and damage to the saw or vehicle.
STIHL or expressly approved by STIHL
Grip the front handle and place the Preparation for the use of the saw
for use with the specific STIHL saw
muffler away from the body.
models are authorized. Although certain Take off the chain guard and inspect for
unauthorized attachments are usable safety in operation. For assembly, follow
with the STIHL powerhead, their use the procedure described in the chapter
may, in fact, be extremely dangerous. "Mounting the Bar and Chain" of your
Owner's Manual.
STIHL Oilomatic chain, guide bar and
sprocket must match each other in
gauge and pitch.
Before replacing any bar and chain, see
the sections on "Specifications",
"Kickback" and the "ANSI B 175.1-2000
chainsaw kickback standard" in this
manual.
001BA113 KN
001BA114 KN
corresponding recess in the filler neck,
the cap is not properly seated and
tightened and you must repeat the
above steps.
Starting Grip the front handlebar of the saw firmly
with your left hand and press down. For
The chain brake must be engaged when
Slotted Cap saws with a rear handle level with the
starting the saw.
ground, put the toe of your right foot into
!Warning! !Warning! the rear handle and press down. With
Unit vibrations can cause an improperly your right hand pull out the starter grip
Your chainsaw is a one-person saw. Do
tightened fuel filler cap to loosen or slowly until you feel a definite resistance
not allow other persons to be near the
come off and spill quantities of fuel. In and then give it a brisk, strong pull.
running chainsaw. Start and operate
order to reduce the risk of fuel spillage
your saw without assistance. For The second recommended method for
and fire, tighten fuel filler cap by hand
specific starting instructions, see the starting your chainsaw allows you to
with as much force as possible.
appropriate section of the Owner's start the saw without placing it on the
The screwdriver end of Manual. Proper starting methods reduce ground. Make sure the chain brake is
the STIHL combination the risk of injury. Do not drop start. This engaged, grip the front handle of the
wrench or other similar method is very dangerous because you chainsaw firmly with your left hand.
tool can be used as an aid may lose control of the saw. Keep your arm on the front handle in a
in tightening slotted fuel locked (straight) position. Hold the rear
There are two recommended methods
filler caps. handle of the saw tightly between your
for starting your chainsaw.
See "Fueling" chapter in your Owner's legs just above the knees. Maintain
With the first recommended method, good balance and secure footing. Pull
Manual.
the chainsaw is started on the ground. the starting grip slowly with your right
Make sure the chain brake is engaged hand until you feel a definite resistance
(see "Chain Brake" chapter in your and then give it a brisk, strong pull.
Owner's Manual) and place the
chainsaw on firm ground or other solid
surface in an open area. Maintain good
balance and secure footing.
Important adjustments
!Warning! !Warning!
Be sure that the guide bar and chain are !Warning! Since a muffler with a
clear of you and all other obstructions To reduce the risk of personal injury from catalytic converter cools
and objects, including the ground. When loss of control or contact with the down less rapidly than
the engine is started, the engine speed running chain, do not use a saw with conventional mufflers,
with the starting throttle lock engaged incorrect idle adjustment. At correct idle never set your chainsaw
will be fast enough for the clutch to speed, the chain should not rotate. For down on or near dry
engage the sprocket and, if the chain directions to adjust idle speed, see the brush, grass, wood chips or other
brake is not activated, turn the chain. If appropriate section of your Owner's combustible materials while it is still hot.
the upper quadrant of the tip of the bar Manual. If you cannot set the correct idle Let the engine cool down sitting on
touches any object, it may cause kick- speed, have your STIHL dealer check concrete, metal, bare ground or solid
back to occur (see section on reactive your saw and make proper adjustments wood (e.g. the trunk of a felled tree)
forces). To reduce this risk, always or repairs. After adjusting a chain, start away from any combustible substances.
engage the chain brake before starting. the saw, let the engine run for a while,
Never attempt to start the chainsaw then switch engine off and recheck chain !Warning!
when the guide bar is in a cut or kerf. tension. Proper chain tension is very To reduce the risk of fire or burn injury,
important at all times. let the unit cool down before refueling
!Warning! your chainsaw after use.
When you pull the starter grip, do not
wrap the starting rope around your Catalytic converter !Warning!
hands. Do not allow the grip to snap Never disassemble or modify your
back, but guide the starter rope slowly !Warning! muffler. The muffler could be damaged
back to permit the rope to rewind Some STIHL chainsaw models are and cause an increase in heat radiation
properly. Failure to follow this procedure equipped with a catalytic converter, or sparks, thereby increasing the risk of
may result in injury to hand or fingers which is designed to reduce the exhaust fire or burn injury. You may also
and may damage the starter emissions of the engine by a chemical permanently damage the engine. Have
mechanism. process in the muffler. Due to this your muffler serviced and repaired by
process, the muffler does not cool down your STIHL Servicing Dealer only.
as rapidly as conventional mufflers when
the engine returns to idle or is shut off.
To reduce the risk of fire and burn
injuries, specific safety precautions must
be observed.
001BA087 LÄ
muffler and other parts while they are or rainfall is heavy.
hot. Don't work alone. Keep within
calling distance of others in case help is !Warning!
needed. Avoid stumbling on obstacles such as
Your chainsaw is equipped with a chain stumps, roots or rocks and watch out for
holes or ditches. Clear the area where Cutting Instructions
catcher. It is designed to reduce the risk
of personal injury in the event of a you are working. Be extremely cautious
Grip: Always hold the saw firmly with
thrown or broken chain. From time to when working on slopes or uneven
both hands when the engine is running.
time the catcher may be damaged or ground. There is increased danger of Place your left hand on front handle bar
removed. slipping on freshly debarked logs.
and your right hand on rear handle and
To reduce the risk of personal injury, do !Warning! throttle trigger. Left-handers should
follow these instructions too.
not operate a chainsaw with a damaged To reduce the risk Wrap your fingers tightly around the
or missing catcher. of serious or fatal handles, keeping the handles cradled
Inspect buffers periodically. Replace injury to the between your thumb and forefinger. With
damaged, broken or excessively worn operator or your hands in this position, you can best
buffers immediately, since they may bystanders, never oppose and absorb the push, pull and
result in loss of control of the saw. use the saw with one hand. kickback forces of your saw without
A "sponginess" in the feel of the saw, You cannot control reactive forces and losing control (see section on reactive
increased vibration or increased you may lose control of the saw, which forces). Make sure your chainsaw
"bottoming" during normal operation can result in the skating or bouncing of handles and grip are in good condition
may indicate damage, breakage or the bar and chain along the limb or log. and free of moisture, pitch, oil or grease.
excessive wear. Buffers should always Even for those compact saws designed !Warning!
be replaced in sets. If you have any for use in confined spaces, one-handed
questions as to whether the buffers Do not operate your chainsaw with the
operation is dangerous because the
should be replaced, consult your STIHL starting throttle lock engaged. Cutting
operator may lose control.
servicing dealer. with the starting throttle lock engaged
does not permit the operator proper
control of the saw or chain speed.
001BA018 LA
001BA082 KN
Position the chainsaw in such a way that
!Warning! your body is clear of the cutting
Never touch a chain with your hand or attachment whenever the engine is
any part of your body when the engine is running. Stand to the left of cut while
running, even when the chain is not bucking.
rotating. The chain continues to rotate
001BA031 KN
Don't put pressure on the saw when
for a short period after the throttle trigger
reaching the end of a cut. The pressure
is released.
may cause the bar and rotating chain to
!Warning! pop out of the cut or kerf, go out of
control and strike the operator or some
Do not cut any material other than wood Never work on a ladder, or on any other
other object. If the rotating chain strikes
or wooden objects. Use your saw for insecure support. Never use the saw
some other object, a reactive force may
chainsawing only. It is not designed for above shoulder height.
cause the moving chain to strike the
prying or shoveling away limbs, roots or
other objects. When sawing, make sure !Warning! operator.
that the saw chain does not touch any Never work in a tree unless you have
foreign materials such as rocks, fences, received specific, professional training Reactive forces including kickback
nails and the like. Such objects may be for such work, are properly secured
flung off, damage the saw chain or (such as tackle and harness system or a !Warning!
cause the saw to kickback. lift bucket), have both hands free for Reactive forces may occur any time the
operating the chainsaw in a cramped chain is rotating. Reactive forces can be
!Warning! environment and have taken proper dangerous! In any chainsaw,
In order to keep control of your saw, precautions to avoid injury from falling
always maintain a firm foothold. limbs or branches.
001BA093 LÄ
the bar and chain contact the object, the
angle of contact, the condition of the
chain and other factors.
The type of bar and saw chain you use
the powerful force used to cut wood can
is an important factor in the occurrence
be reversed (and work against the
and force of the kickback reaction. Some
operator). If the rotating chain is
STIHL bar and chain types are designed
suddenly stopped by contact with any
to reduce kickback forces. STIHL
solid object like a log or branch or is
recommends the use of reduced
pinched, there active forces may occur
kickback bars and low kickback chains.
001BA035 KN
instantly. These reactive forces may
result in loss of control which may, in
turn, cause serious or fatal injury. An ANSI B 175.1-2000 chainsaw
understanding of the causes of these kickback standard
reactive forces may help you avoid loss The reaction of the cutting force of the
of control. chain causes a rotational force on the Section 5.11 of ANSI standard
chainsaw in the direction opposite to the B 175.1-2000, sets certain performance
chain movement. This may fling the bar and design criteria related to chainsaw
The most common reactive forces are up and back in an uncontrolled arc kickback.
– kickback, mainly in the plane of the bar. Under To comply with section 5.11 of ANSI
some cutting circumstances the bar B 175.1-2000:
– pushback, moves towards the operator, who may
– pull-in. suffer severe or fatal injury.
Kickback may occur, for example,
Kickback: when the chain near the upper quadrant
Kickback may occur when of the bar nose contacts the wood or is
the moving saw chain pinched during limbing or when it is
near the upper quadrant incorrectly used to begin a plunge or
of the bar nose contacts a boring cut.
solid object or is pinched.
a) saws with a displacement of less In addition, features designed to reduce Devices for reducing the risk of
than 3.8 cubic inches (62 cm³). kickback injuries may lose some of their kickback injury
– must, in their original condition, effectiveness when they are no longer in
STIHL recommends the use of the
meet a 45° computer derived their original condition, especially if they
STIHL Quickstop chain brake on your
kickback angle when equipped with have been improperly maintained.
power-head with green labeled reduced
certain cutting attachments. Compliance with § 5.11 of ANSI B 175.1-
kickback bars and low kickback chains.
2000 does not automatic-ally mean that
– and must be equipped with at least
two devices to reduce the risk of
in a real life kickback the bar and chain !Warning!
will rotate at most 45°.
kickback injury, such as a chain To reduce the risk of injury, stop using
brake, low kickback chain, reduced !Warning! the saw immediately if the chain brake
kickback bar, etc. does not function properly. Take the saw
In order for powerheads below 3.8 cubic
to your local STIHL Service Center! Do
inch (62 cm³) displacement to comply
not use the saw until the problem has
b) saws with a displacement of with the computed kickback angle
been rectified (see the section "Chain
3.8 cubic inches (62 cm³) and above requirements of § 5.11 of ANSI B 175.1-
Brake").
2000 use only the following cutting
– must be equipped with at least one
attachments:
device designed to reduce the risk
of kickback injury such as a chain – bar and chain combinations listed Quickstop chain brake
brake, low kickback chain, reduced as complying in the "Specifications" STIHL has developed a chain stopping
kickback bar, etc. section of the Owner's Manual or system designed to reduce the risk of
The computer derived angles for saws – other replacement bar and chain injury in certain kickback situations. It is
below 3.8 cubic inch (62 cm³) combinations marked in called a Quickstop chain brake. The
displacement are measured by applying accordance with the standard for Quickstop is available as standard
a computer program to test results from use on the powerhead or equipment on your STIHL chainsaw and
a kickback test machine. – replacement chain designated is available for installation on most older
"low kickback saw chain''. STIHL saws. Ask your dealer to retrofit
!Warning! your older model saw with a chain brake.
See the section on "Low kickback saw
The computer derived angles of § 5.11
chain and reduced kickback bars"
of ANSI B 175.1-2000 may bear no
relationship to actual kickback bar
rotation angles that may occur in real life
cutting situations.
!Warning! !Warning!
Never operate your chainsaw without a An improperly maintained chain brake
front hand guard. In a kickback situation may increase the time needed to stop
this guard helps protect your left hand or the chain after activation, or may not
other parts of your body. In addition, activate at all.
removal of the hand guard on a saw
equipped with a chain brake will !Warning!
deactivate the chain brake. Never run the chainsaw above idle
speed for more than 3 seconds when the
!Warning! chain brake is engaged or the chain is
No Quickstop or other chain brake pinched or otherwise caught in the cut.
device prevents kickback. These Clutch slippage can cause excessive
devices are designed to reduce the risk heat, leading to severe damage of the
of kickback injury, if activated, in certain motor housing, clutch and oiler
kickback situations. In order for the component and may interfere with the
001BA036 KN
Quickstop to reduce the risk of kickback operation of the chain brake. If clutch
injury, it must be properly maintained slippage in excess of 3 seconds has
and in good working order. See the occurred, allow the motor housing to
chapter entitled "Chain Brake" and cool before proceeding and check the
When a kickback occurs, the guide bar "Maintenance, Repair and Storing" of operation of your chain brake as
may rotate around the front handle. If the your Owner's Manual. In addition, there described in the chapter entitled "Chain
cutting position is such that the must be enough distance between the Brake". Also make sure that the chain is
operator's left hand is gripping the front bar and the operator to ensure that the not turning at idle speed (see above
handle behind the hand guard, and if the Quickstop has sufficient time to activate "Important Adjustments").
left hand rotates around the front handle and stop the chain before potential
and makes a sufficiently forceful contact contact with the operator.
with the front hand guard, which is the Low kickback saw chain and reduced
Quickstop activating lever, this contact kickback bars
will activate the Quickstop. The chain STIHL offers a variety of bars and
brake on most new model STIHL
chains. STIHL reduced kickback bars
chainsaws can also be activated by
and low kickback chains are designed to
inertia. See the chapter entitled "Chain
Brake" of your Owner's Manual.
reduce the risk of kickback injury. Other Please ask your STIHL dealer to Low kickback chain
chains are designed to obtain higher properly match your powerhead with the
Some types of saw chain have specially
cutting efficiency or sharpening ease but appropriate bar/chain combinations to
designed components to reduce the
may result in higher kickback tendency. reduce the risk of kickback injury. Green
force of nose contact kickback. STIHL
labeled bars and chains are
STIHL has developed a color has developed low kickback chain for
recommended for all powerheads. See
codesystem to help you identify the your powerhead.
your "STIHL Bar and Chain Information"
STIHL reduced kickback bars and low
leaflet for details. "Low kickback saw chain" is a chain
kickback chains. Cutting attachments
which has met the kickback
with green warning decals or green !Warning! performance requirements of § 5.11.2.4
labels on the packaging are designed to
Use of other, non-listed bar/chain of ANSI B 175.1-2000 (Safety
reduce the risk of kickback injury. The
combinations may increase kickback Requirements for Gasoline-Powered
matching of green decaled powerheads
forces and increase the risk of kickback ChainSaws) when tested in its original
under 3.8 cubic inch (62 cm³)
injury. New bar/chain combinations may condition on a selected representative
displacement with green labeled bars
be developed after publication of this sample of chainsaws below 3.8 cubic
and green labeled chains gives
literature, which will, in combination with inch (62 cm³) displacement specified in
compliance with the computed kickback
certain powerheads, comply with ANSI B 175.1-2000.
angle requirements of ANSI
§ 5.11 of ANSI B 175.1-2000. Check
B 175.1-2000 when the products are in
with your STIHL dealer for such !Warning!
their original condition. Products with
combinations. There are potential powerhead and bar
yellow decals or labels are for users with
combinations with which low kickback
extraordinary cutting needs and !Warning! saw chains can be used which have not
experience and specialized training for
Reduced kickback bars and low been specifically certified to comply with
dealing with kickback.
kickback chains do not prevent the 45° computer derived kickback
STIHL recommends the use of its kickback, but they are designed to angle of § 5.11 of ANSI B 175.1-2000.
green labeled reduced kickback bars, reduce the risk of kickback injury. They Some low kickback chains have not
green labeled low kickback chains are available from your STIHL dealer. been tested with all powerhead and bar
and a STIHL Quickstop chain brake combinations.
for both experienced and !Warning!
inexperienced chainsaw users. Even if your saw is equipped with a !Warning!
Quickstop, a reduced kickback bar and/ A dull or improperly sharpened chain
or low kickback chain, this does not may reduce or negate the effects of the
eliminate the risk of injury by kickback. design features intended to reduce
Therefore, always observe all safety
precautions to avoid kickback situations.
001BA037 KN
hands and maintain a secure grip.
Cutting Techniques
Felling
Felling is cutting down a tree.
Before felling a tree, consider carefully
001BA088 LÄ
001BA038 KN
all conditions which may affect the
direction of fall, including: 1 1/ 2 1
B The intended direction of the fall.
21/2
B
45°
A
45°
001BA019 KN
001BA040 KN
001BA041 KN
B
001BA042 LÄ
001BA052 KN
001BA043 KN
Conventional cut Open-face technique Making sapwood cuts
A = felling notch - determines the A = felling notch - determines the : For medium sized or larger trees
direction of the fall direction of the fall make cuts at both sides of the trunk,
For a conventional cut: For an open-face cut: : at same height as subsequent
felling cut.
: Properly place felling notch : Properly place felling notch : Cut to no more than width of guide
perpendicular to the line of fall, perpendicular to the line of fall, bar.
close to the ground close to the ground
This is especially important in
: Cut down at app. 45-degree angle : Cut down at app. 50-degree angle
softwood in summer - it helps
to a depth of about 1/5 to 1/4 of the to a depth of app.1/5 to 1/4 of the
prevent sapwood splintering when
trunk diameter trunk diameter
the tree falls.
: Make second cut horizontal : Make second cut from below at app.
: Remove resulting 45-degree piece 40 degree angle
: Remove resulting 90-degree piece
B C
001BA045 KN
001BA046 KN
001BA044 KN
001BA089 LÄ
1
3
2 First, cut a large, wide felling notch.
2 Make a plunge cut in the centre of the
notch.
1 The plunge cut is made with the guide
bar nose. Begin the plunge cut by
applying the lower portion of the guide
001BA047 KN
001BA048 KN
bar nose to the tree at an angle. Cut until
the depth of the kerf is about the same
as the width of the guide bar. Next, align
the saw in the direction in which the
Felling cut for large diameter trees: Avoid repositioning the saw more than
recess is to be cut.
necessary. When repositioning for the
!Warning! next cut, keep the guide bar fully With the saw at full throttle, insert the
Felling a tree that has a diameter greater engaged in the kerf to keep the felling guide bar in the trunk.
than the length of the guide bar requires cut straight. If the saw begins to pinch, Enlarge the plunge cut as shown in the
use of either the sectioning felling cut or insert a wedge to open the cut. On the illustration.
plunge-cut method. These methods are last cut, do not cut the hinge.
extremely dangerous because they
Plunge-cut method !Warning!
involve the use of the nose of the guide There is an extreme danger of kickback
bar and can result in kickback. Only Timber having a diameter more than
at this point. Extra caution must be taken
properly trained professionals should twice the length of the guide bar requires
to maintain control of the saw. To make
attempt these techniques. the use of the plunge-cut method before
the felling cut, follow the sectioning
making the felling cut.
Sectioning method method described previously.
For the sectioning method make the first
part of the felling cut with the guide bar
fanning in toward the hinge. Then, using
the bumper spike as a pivot, reposition
the saw for the next cut.
Limbing
Limbing is removing the branches from a
fallen tree.
!Warning!
There is an extreme danger of kickback
during the limbing operation. Do not
work with the nose of the bar. Be
extremely cautious and avoid contacting
001BA051 LÄ
the log or other limbs with the nose of the
001BA033 KN
guide bar.
Do not stand on a log while limbing it -
you may slip or the log may roll.
Start limbing by leaving the lower limbs Bucking 2. Cut only one log at a time.
to support the log off the ground. When Bucking is cutting a log into sections. 3. Shattered wood should be cut very
underbucking freely hanging limbs, a carefully. Sharp slivers of wood may
pinch may result or the limb may fall, !Warning! be caught and flung in the direction
causing loss of control. If a pinch occurs, 1. When bucking, do not stand on the of the operator of the saw.
stop the engine and remove the saw, by log. Make sure the log will not roll 4. When cutting small logs, place log
lifting the limb. downhill. If on a slope, stand on the through "V" - shaped supports on
uphill side of the log. Watch out for top of a sawhorse. Never permit
!Warning! rolling logs. another person to hold the log.
Be extremely cautious when cutting Never hold the log with your leg or
limbs or logs under tension (spring foot.
poles). The limbs or logs could spring
back toward the operator and cause loss
of control of the saw and severe or fatal
injury to the operator.
Follow the maintenance and repair use only spark plugs authorized by
instructions in the appropriate section of STIHL. Always press spark plug boot
your Owner's Manual, especially those snugly onto spark plug terminal of the
in the chapters "Mounting the Bar and proper size. (Note: If terminal has
5. Logs under strain: Risk of pinching! Chain", "Maintaining and Sharpening" detachable SAE adapter nut, it must be
Always start relieving cut (1) at and "Chain Brake". attached.) A loose connection between
compression side (A).Then make spark plug terminal and ignition wire
bucking cut (2) at tension side (B). !Warning! connector in the boot may create arcing
If the saw pinches, stop the engine Use only STIHL replacement parts for that could ignite combustible fumes and
and remove it from the log. maintenance and repair. Use of parts cause a fire. Keep spark plug clean, and
6. Only properly trained professionals manufactured by others may cause make sure ignition lead is in good
should work in an area where the serious or fatal injury. condition.
logs, limbs and roots are tangled. !Warning!
Working in blow down areas is
!Warning!
extremely hazardous. Always stop the engine and ensure that Do not operate your chainsaw if the
the chain is stopped before making any muffler is damaged, missing or modified.
7. Drag the logs into a clear area adjustments, maintenance or repair An improperly maintained muffler will
before cutting. Pull out exposed and work, increase the risk of fire and hearing loss.
cleared logs first.
Never touch a hot muffler or burn will
result. If your muffler was equipped with For the proper and effective operation of
a spark-arresting screen to reduce the the chain brake the brake band and
risk of fire (e. g. in the USA, Canada and clutch drum must be kept free of dirt,
Australia), never operate your saw if the grease and other foreign matter which
screen is missing or damaged. may reduce friction of the band on the
Remember that the risk of forest fires is drum.
greater in hot or dry weather.
For these reasons, each STIHL
Keep the chain, bar and sprocket clean;
chainsaw should be returned to trained
replace worn sprockets or chains. Keep
personnel such as your STIHL servicing
the chain sharp.
dealer for periodic inspection and
You can spot a dull chain when easy-to-
servicing of the brake system according
cut wood becomes hard to cut and burn
to the following schedule:
marks appear on the wood.
Heavy usage - every three months,
Keep the chain at proper tension.
Moderate usage - twice a year,
Tighten all nuts, bolts and screws except
Occasional usage - annually.
the carburetor adjustment screws after
each use. The chainsaw should also be returned
immediately for maintenance whenever
!Warning! the brake system cannot be thoroughly
In order for the chain brake on your cleaned or there is a change in its
STIHL chainsaw to properly perform its operating characteristics.
function of reducing the risk of kickback For any maintenance please refer to the
and other injuries, it must be properly maintenance chart and to the warranty
maintained. Like an automobile brake, a statement near the end of this manual.
chainsaw chain brake incurs wear each
time it is engaged. Additionally, the daily maintenance
schedule for your chainsaw set forth in
The amount of wear will vary depending your STIHL Owner's Manual should be
upon usage, conditions under which the strictly followed.
saw is used and other factors. Excessive
wear will reduce the effectiveness of the Store chainsaw in a dry place and away
chain brake and can render it from children. Before storing for longer
inoperable. than a few days, always empty the fuel
tank (see chapter "Storing the Machine"
in this manual).
Maintenance Chart
Please note that the following maintenance intervals apply for normal
every 12 months
operating conditions only. If your daily working time is longer than normal or
refueling stop
after finishing
starting work
work or daily
as required
if damaged
cutting conditions are difficult (very dusty work area, resin-rich wood,
after each
if problem
monthly
weekly
tropical wood etc.), shorten the specified intervals accordingly. If you only
before
use the saw occasionally, extend the intervals accordingly.
Visual inspection (condition, leaks) X X
Complete machine
Clean X
Throttle trigger, trigger interlock, Master
Check operation X X
Control
Check operation X X
Chain brake
Check 1)2) X
Check X
Pickup body/filter in fuel tank Clean, replace filter element X X
Replace pickup body X X X
Fuel tank Clean X
Chain oil tank Clean X
Chain lubrication Check X
Inspect, also check sharpness X X
Saw chain Check chain tension X X
Sharpen X
Check (wear, damage) X
Clean and turn over X
Guide bar
Deburr X
Replace X X
Chain sprocket Check X
Clean X X
Air filter
Replace X
Inspect X X
AV elements (rubber buffers, springs)
Replace 1) X
Cooling inlets Clean X
Cylinder fins Clean X X
1) STIHL dealer
2) see "Chain brake"
Please note that the following maintenance intervals apply for normal
every 12 months
operating conditions only. If your daily working time is longer than normal or
refueling stop
after finishing
starting work
work or daily
as required
if damaged
cutting conditions are difficult (very dusty work area, resin-rich wood,
after each
if problem
monthly
weekly
tropical wood etc.), shorten the specified intervals accordingly. If you only
before
use the saw occasionally, extend the intervals accordingly.
Check idle adjustment – chain must not rotate X X
Carburetor
Readjust idle X
Spark plug Readjust electrode gap X
All accessible screws and nuts
Retighten X
(not adjusting screws) 2)
Inspect X
Spark arresting screen* in muffler
Clean or replace X
Check X
Chain catcher
Replace X
1 Twist lock
2 Carburetor adjusting screws
14 3 Fuel pump (easy start*)
4 Decompression valve*
8 5 Chain brake
15 3 6 Muffler
4 7 Chain sprocket
9 1 6 8 Chain sprocket cover
2 9 Chain catcher
5
10 Chain tensioner (side)
10 11 Chain tensioner (front)
7 12
11 12 Guide bar
8 13 Oilomatic saw chain
13
208BA003 KN
14 Adjusting wheel of quick
9 tensioner*
15 Handle of wingnut*
(quick chain tensioner)
208BA004 KN
23 27
Definitions
9 Chain Catcher 18 Front Hand Guard
1 Twist Lock
Helps to reduce the risk of operator Provides protection against
Lock for carburetor box cover.
contact by a chain if it breaks or projecting branches and helps
2 Carburetor Adjusting Screws comes off the bar. prevent left hand from touching the
For fine tuning the carburetor. chain if it slips off the handlebar. It
10 Chain Tensioner
3 Fuel Pump Permits precise adjustment of chain also serves as the lever for chain
Fills carburetor with fuel to simplify tension. brake activation.
starting. 19 Front Handle (Handlebar)
11 Chain Tensioner
4 Decompression Valve Permits precise adjustment of chain Handlebar for the left hand at the
Releases compression pressure to tension. front of the saw.
make starting easier. 20 Starter Grip
12 Guide Bar
5 Chain Brake Supports and guides the saw chain. The grip of the starter, for starting
A device to stop the rotation of the the engine.
13 Oilomatic Saw Chain
chain if activated in a kickback 21 Spark Plug Boot
A loop consisting of cutters, tie
situation by the operator's hand or Connects the spark plug with the
straps and drive links.
by inertia. ignition wire.
14 Adjusting Wheel
6 Muffler 22 Master Control Lever
Permits precise adjustment of chain
Reduces engine exhaust noise and Lever for choke control, starting
tension.
directs the exhaust gases. throttle, run and stop positions.
15 Handle of Wingnut
7 Chain Sprocket 23 Fuel Filler Cap
Must be released to allow chain to
The toothed wheel that drives the For closing the fuel tank.
be tensioned with adjusting wheel.
saw chain.
16 Oil Filler Cap 24 Throttle Trigger
8 Chain Sprocket Cover Controls the speed of the engine.
For closing the oil tank.
Covers the clutch and the sprocket.
17 Bumper Spike 25 Throttle Trigger Interlock
Toothed stop for holding saw steady Must be depressed before the
against wood. throttle trigger can be activated.
26 Rear Handle
The support handle for the right
hand, located at the rear of the saw.
27 Rear Hand Guard
Gives added protection to
operator's right hand.
Clutch
Couples engine to chain sprocket
when engine is accelerated beyond
idle speed (not illustrated).
Anti-Vibration System
The anti-vibration system includes a
number of buffers designed to
reduce the transmission of
vibrations created by the engine
and cutting attachment to the
operator's hands (not illustrated).