1. STIH)
STIHL MS 290, 310, 390 Instruction Manual
Manual de instrucciones
MS 290
Warning!
To reduce the risk of kickback injury use
STIHL reduced kickback bar and STIHL RSC3
(3/8") or RMC3 (0,325") chain depending on
sprocket or other available low kickback
components.
Advertencia!
Para reducir el riesgo de lesionarse como
resultado de un culatazo, utilice la barra de
contragolpe reducido y la cadena RSC3
3/8 pulg) o RMC3 (0,325 pulg) de STIHL,
dependiendo de la rueda dentada usada y de
otros componentes reductores de
contragolpe.
MS 310, 390
Warning!
This saw is capable of severe kickback which
may cause serious or fatal injury. Only for
users with extraordinary cutting needs and
experience and training dealing with kickback.
Chainsaws with significantly reduced kickback
potential are available. STIHL recommends
the use of STIHL reduced kickback bar and
low kickback chain.
Advertencia!
Esta sierra es capaz de causar contragolpes
severos, los cuales pueden causar lesiones
graves o mortales. Sólo es apta para usuarios
con necesidades extraordinarias de corte y
mucha experiencia y capacitación en el
manejo de los contragolpes. Existen sierras
con un potencial mucho menor de causar
Read and follow all safety precautions in Lea y siga todas las precauciones de seguridad contragolpes. STIHL recomienda usar una
Instruction Manual – improper use can cause dadas en el manual de instrucciones – el uso barra y cadena de contragolpe reducido de
serious or fatal injury. incorrecto puede causar lesiones graves o mortales. STIHL.
3. English / USA
Guide to Using this Manual
Pictograms In addition to the operating instructions, Equipment and features
this manual may contain paragraphs
All the pictograms attached to the This instruction manual may refer to
that require your special attention. Such
machine are shown and explained in several models with different
paragraphs are marked with the
this manual. features. Components that are not
symbols described below:
installed on all models and related
The operating and handling instructions
Warning where there is a risk of an applications are marked with an
are supported by illustrations.
accident or personal injury or asterisk (*). Such components may
Symbols in text serious damage to property. be available as special accessories
from your STIHL dealer.
The individual steps or procedures Caution where there is a risk of
described in the manual may be marked damaging the machine or its
in different ways: individual components. Engineering improvements
: A bullet marks a step or procedure Note or hint which is not essential STIHL’s philosophy is to continually
without direct reference to an for using the machine, but may improve all of its products. As a result,
illustration. improve the operator’s under- engineering changes and improvements
standing of the situation and result are made from time to time. If the
A description of a step or procedure that in better use of the machine. operating characteristics or the
refers directly to an illustration may appearance of your machine differ from
Note or hint on correct procedure in those described in this manual, please
contain item numbers that appear in the
order to avoid damage to the contact your STIHL dealer for
illustration.
environment. assistance.
Example:
Loosen the screw (1) Therefore some changes, modifications
and improvements may not be covered
Lever (2) ... in this manual.
2 MS 290, MS 310, MS 390
4. English / USA
Safety Precautions and
Working Techniques
Because a chainsaw is a Most of these safety precautions and
high-speed, fast-cutting !Warning! warnings apply to the use of all STIHL
power tool, special safety Do not lend or rent your power tool chainsaws. Different models may have
precautions must be without the instruction manual. Be sure different parts and controls. See the
observed to reduce the that anyone using it understands the appropriate section of your instruction
risk of personal injury. information contained in this manual. manual for a description of the controls
and the function of the parts of your
It is important that you !Warning! model.
read, fully understand and The use of this machine may be Safe use of a chainsaw involves
observe the following hazardous.The saw chain has many
safety precautions and sharp cutters. If the cutters contact your 1. the operator
warnings. Read the flesh, they will cut you, even if the chain 2. the saw
instruction manual and is not moving. At full throttle, the chain
3. the use of the saw.
the safety instructions periodically. speed can reach 67 mph (30 m/s).
Careless or improper use may cause
Use your chainsaw only for cutting
serious or fatal injury.
wooden objects. It must not be used for
!Warning! any other purposes, since such misuse THE OPERATOR
may result in an accident or damage to
Reactive forces, including kickback, can Physical Condition
the machine.
be dangerous. Pay special attention to You must be in good physical condition
the section on reactive forces. !Warning! and mental health and not under the
Have your STIHL dealer show you how Minors should never be allowed to use influence of any substance (drugs,
to operate your power tool. All safety this power tool. Bystanders, especially alcohol, etc.) which might impair vision,
precautions that are generally observed children, and animals should not be dexterity or judgment. Do not operate
when working with an axe or a hand saw allowed in the area where it is in use. this machine when you are fatigued.
also apply to the operation of chainsaws.
Observe all applicable federal, state and !Warning! !Warning!
local safety regulations, standards and To reduce the risk of injury to bystanders Be alert – if you get tired, take a break.
ordinances. When using a chain saw for and damage to property, never let your Tiredness may result in loss of control.
logging purposes, for instance, refer to power tool run unattended. When it is Working with any power tool can be
the OSHA regulations for “logging not in use (e.g. during a work break), strenuous. If you have any condition that
operations“ at 29 Code of Federal shut it off and make sure that might be aggravated by strenuous work,
Regulations 1910.266. unauthorized persons do not use it. check with your doctor before operating
this machine.
MS 290, MS 310, MS 390 3
5. English / USA
– Keep the AV system well Proper Clothing
!Warning! maintained. A power tool with loose
Prolonged use of a power tool (or other components or with damaged or !Warning!
machines) exposing the operator to worn AV buffers will tend to have To reduce the risk of injury, the operator
vibrations may produce whitefinger higher vibration levels. should wear proper protective apparel.
disease (Raynaud's phenomenon) or Keep the saw chain sharp. A dull
Clothing must be sturdy
carpal tunnel syndrome. chain will increase cutting time, and
and snug-fitting, but allow
pressing a dull chain through wood
These conditions reduce the hand's complete freedom of
will increase the vibrations
ability to feel and regulate temperature, movement. Wear long
transmitted to your hands.
produce numbness and burning pants made of heavy
sensations and may cause nerve and – Maintain a firm grip at all times, but material to help protect
circulation damage and tissue necrosis. do not squeeze the handles with your legs from contact with branches or
constant, excessive pressure. Take brush. To reduce the risk of cut injuries,
All factors which contribute to white- frequent breaks. wear pants or chaps that contain pads of
finger disease are not known, but cold
All the above-mentioned precautions do cut retardant material.
weather, smoking and diseases or
physical conditions that affect blood not guarantee that you will not sustain Avoid loose-fitting jackets, scarfs,
vessels and blood transport, as well as whitefinger disease or carpal tunnel neckties, jewelry, flared or cuffed pants,
high vibration levels and long periods of syndrome. Therefore, continual and unconfined long hair or anything that
exposure to vibration are mentioned as regular users should closely monitor the could become caught on branches,
factors in the development of whitefinger condition of their hands and fingers. If brush or the moving parts of the unit.
disease. In order to reduce the risk of any of the above symptoms appear, Secure hair so it is above shoulder level.
whitefinger disease and carpal tunnel seek medical advice immediately.
Good footing is very
syndrome, please note the following:
!Warning! important. Wear sturdy
– Most STIHL power tools are boots with nonslip soles.
The ignition system of the STIHL unit
available with an anti-vibration Steel-toed safety boots
produces an electromagnetic field of a
(“AV”) system designed to reduce are recommended.
very low intensity. This field may
the transmission of vibrations
interfere with some pacemakers. To
created by the machine to the
reduce the risk of serious or fatal injury,
operator's hands. An AV system is
persons with a pacemaker should
recommended for those persons
consult their physician and the
using power tools on a regular or
pacemaker manufacturer before
sustained basis.
operating this tool.
– Wear gloves and keep your hands
warm. Heated handles, which are
available on some STIHL power-
heads, are recommended for cold
weather use.
4 MS 290, MS 310, MS 390
6. English / USA
THE POWER TOOL THE USE OF THE POWER TOOL
!Warning!
For illustrations and definitions of the Transporting the Power Tool
Wear an approved safety
power tool parts see the chapter on
hard hat to reduce the risk
“Main Parts and Controls.” !Warning!
of injury to your head.
To reduce the risk of injury from saw
Chainsaw noise may !Warning! chain contact, never carry or transport
damage your hearing.
Never modify this power tool in any way. your power tool with the saw chain
Wear sound barriers (ear
Only attachments supplied by STIHL or moving. Always engage the chain brake
plugs or ear mufflers) to help protect
expressly approved by STIHL for use when taking more than a few steps.
your hearing. Continual and regular
with the specific STIHL model are
users should have their hearing checked
authorized. Although certain !Warning!
regularly.
unauthorized attachments are useable Always switch off the engine, and fit the
Be particularly alert and cautious when with STIHL power tools, their use may, in chain guard (scabbard) over the chain
wearing hearing protection because fact, be extremely dangerous. and guide bar before transporting the
your ability to hear warnings (shouts, power tool over longer distances. When
If this tool is subjected to unusually high
alarms, etc.) is restricted. transporting it in a vehicle, properly
loads for which it was not designed (e.g.
Never operate your power tool unless heavy impact or a fall), always check secure it to prevent turnover, fuel
wearing goggles or properly fitted that it is in good condition before spillage and damage to the unit.
protective glasses with adequate top continuing work. Check in particular that
and side protection complying with ANSI the fuel system is tight (no leaks) and
Z 87.1 (or your applicable national that the controls and safety devices are
standard). To reduce the risk of injury to working properly. Do not continue
your face STIHL recommends that you operating this machine if it is damaged.
also wear a face shield or face screen In case of doubt, have it checked by your
001BA115 KN
over your goggles or protective glasses. STIHL servicing dealer.
Always wear gloves when
handling the machine and
the cutting tool. Heavy-
duty, nonslip gloves It may be carried only in a horizontal
improve your grip and position. Grip the front handle in a
help to protect your manner that the machine is balanced
hands. horizontally. Keep the hot muffler away
from your body and the cutting
STIHL offers a wide range of protective attachment behind you.
clothing and equipment.
MS 290, MS 310, MS 390 5
7. English / USA
Fuel Select bare ground for fueling and move Fold the grip flush with the
at least 10 feet (3 m) from the fueling top of the cap. If the grip
Your STIHL power tool uses an oil-
spot before starting the engine. Wipe off does not lie completely
gasoline mixture for fuel (see the chap-
any spilled fuel before starting your flush with the cap and the
ter on “Fuel” of your instruction manual).
machine. detent on the grip does
!Warning! !Warning!
not fit in the
corresponding recess in the filler
Gasoline is an extremely
Check for fuel leakage while refueling opening, the cap is not properly seated
flammable fuel. If spilled
and during operation. If fuel leakage is and tightened and you must repeat the
and ignited by a spark or
found, do not start or run the engine until above steps.
other ignition source, it
the leak is fixed and any spilled fuel has
can cause fire and serious
been wiped away. Take care not to get
burn injury or property Screw cap
fuel on your clothing. If this happens,
damage. Use extreme caution when
handling gasoline or fuel mix.
change your clothing immediately. !Warning!
Do not smoke or bring any fire or flame Different models may be equipped with Unit vibrations can cause an improperly
near the fuel or the power tool. Note that different fuel caps. tightened fuel filler cap to loosen or
combustible fuel vapor may escape from come off and spill quantities of fuel. In
the fuel system. order to reduce the risk of fuel spillage
Cap with grip and fire, tighten the fuel filler cap by
hand as securely as possible.
!Warning!
The screwdriver end of
In order to reduce the risk of fuel spillage
Fueling Instructions the STIHL combination
and fire from an improperly tightened
wrench or other similar
!Warning! fuel cap, correctly position and tighten
tool can be used as an aid
the fuel cap in the fuel tank opening.
Fuel your power tool in well-ventilated in tightening slotted fuel
areas, outdoors. Always shut off the To do this with this STIHL filler caps.
engine and allow it to cool before cap, raise the grip on the
See "Fueling" chapter in your instruction
refueling. Gasoline vapor pressure may top of the cap until it is
manual.
build up inside the fuel tank depending upright at a 90° angle.
on the fuel used, the weather conditions Insert the cap in the fuel
and the tank venting system. tank opening with the
triangular marks on the grip of the cap
In order to reduce the risk of burns and and on the fuel tank opening lining up.
other personal injury from escaping gas Using the grip, turn the cap firmly
vapor and fumes, remove the fuel filler clockwise as far as it will go (approx. a
cap on your power tool carefully so as to quarter turn).
allow any pressure build-up in the tank
to release slowly. Never remove the fuel
filler cap while the engine is running.
6 MS 290, MS 310, MS 390
8. English / USA
Before Starting Starting
!Warning!
Take off the chain guard (scabbard) and
Proper tension of the chain is extremely !Warning!
inspect the saw for proper condition and
important. In order to avoid improper To reduce the risk of fire and burn
operation. (See the maintenance chart
setting, the tensioning procedure must injuries, start the engine at least 10 feet
near the end of the instruction manual.)
be followed as described in your (3 meters) from the fueling spot,
!Warning! manual. Always make sure the outdoors only.
hexagonal nut(s) for the sprocket cover
Always check your power tool for proper Start and operate your saw without
is (are) tightened securely after
condition and operation before starting, assistance. For specific starting
tensioning the chain in order to secure
particularly the throttle trigger, throttle instructions, see the appropriate section
the bar. Never start the saw with the
trigger interlock, stop switch and cutting of the instruction manual. Proper starting
sprocket cover loose. Check chain
tool. The throttle trigger must move methods reduce the risk of injury.
tension once more after having
freely and always spring back to the idle
position. Never attempt to modify the
tightened the nut(s) and thereafter at !Warning!
regular intervals (whenever the saw is
controls or safety devices. To reduce the risk of injury from chain
shut off). If the chain becomes loose
contact and/or reactive forces, the chain
!Warning! while cutting, shut off the engine and
brake must be engaged when starting
then tighten. Never try to adjust the
Never operate your power tool if it is the saw.
chain while the engine is running!
damaged, improperly adjusted or
maintained, or not completely or Keep the handles clean and dry at all !Warning!
securely assembled. times; it is particularly important to keep Do not drop start. This method is very
them free of moisture, pitch, oil, fuel mix, dangerous because you may lose
!Warning! grease or resin in order for you to control of the saw.
Check that the spark plug boot is secure maintain a firm grip and properly control
There are two recommended methods
– a loose boot may cause arcing that your power tool.
for starting your chainsaw.
could ignite combustible fumes and
cause a fire.
For proper assembly of the bar and
chain follow the procedure described in
the chapter "Mounting the Bar and
Chain" of your instruction manual.
STIHL Oilomatic chain, guide bar and
sprocket must match each other in
gauge and pitch. Before replacing any
bar and chain, see the chapter entitled
"Specifications" in the instruction
manual and the section "Kickback" and
the "ANSI B 175.1-2000 chainsaw
kickback standard" below.
MS 290, MS 310, MS 390 7
9. English / USA
!Warning!
Be sure that the guide bar and chain are
clear of you and all other obstructions
and objects, including the ground. When
the engine is started, the engine speed
001BA113 KN
001BA114 KN
with the starting throttle lock engaged
will be fast enough for the clutch to
engage the sprocket and, if the chain
brake is not activated, turn the chain. If
With the first recommended method, The second recommended method for the upper quadrant of the tip of the bar
the chainsaw is started on the ground. starting your chainsaw allows you to touches any object, it may cause kick-
Make sure the chain brake is engaged start the saw without placing it on the back to occur (see section on reactive
(see "Chain Brake" chapter in your ground. Make sure the chain brake is forces). To reduce this risk, always
instruction manual) and place the engaged, grip the front handle of the engage the chain brake before starting.
chainsaw on firm ground or other solid chainsaw firmly with your left hand. Never attempt to start the chainsaw
surface in an open area. Maintain good Keep your arm on the front handle in a when the guide bar is in a cut or kerf.
balance and secure footing. locked (straight) position. Hold the rear
As soon as the engine is running,
handle of the saw tightly between your
Grip the front handlebar of the saw firmly immediately blip the throttle trigger,
legs just above the knees. Maintain
with your left hand and press down. For which will disengage the starting throttle
good balance and secure footing. Pull
saws with a rear handle level with the lock and allow the engine to settle down
the starting grip slowly with your right
ground, put the toe of your right foot into to idle.
hand until you feel a definite resistance
the rear handle and press down. With
your right hand pull out the starter grip
and then give it a brisk, strong pull. !Warning!
slowly until you feel a definite resistance When you pull the starter grip, do not
and then give it a brisk, strong pull. wrap the starter rope around your hand.
Do not let the grip snap back, but guide
the starter rope to rewind it properly.
Failure to follow this procedure may
result in injury to your hand or fingers
and may damage the starter
mechanism.
8 MS 290, MS 310, MS 390
10. English / USA
Important Adjustments Your right hand should grip the rear
handle. This also applies to left-handers. !Warning!
!Warning! With your hands in this position, you can Keep proper footing and balance at all
To reduce the risk of personal injury from best oppose and absorb the push, pull times. Special care must be taken in
loss of control and/or contact with the and kickback forces of your saw without slippery conditions (wet ground, snow)
running cutting tool, do not use your unit losing control (see section on reactive and in difficult, overgrown terrain. Watch
with incorrect idle adjustment. At correct forces). for hidden obstacles such as tree
idle speed, the cutting tool should not stumps, roots, rocks, holes and ditches
move. For directions on how to adjust !Warning! to avoid stumbling. There is increased
idle speed, see the appropriate section To reduce the risk danger of slipping on freshly debarked
of your instruction manual. of serious or fatal logs. For better footing, clear away fallen
injury to the branches, scrub and cuttings. Be
If you cannot set the correct idle speed,
operator or extremely cautious when working on
have your STIHL dealer check your
bystanders from slopes or uneven ground.
power tool and make proper
loss of control, never use the saw with
adjustments and repairs.
one hand. It is more difficult for you to !Warning!
control reactive forces and to prevent Take extreme care in wet and freezing
the bar and chain from skating or weather (rain, snow, ice). Put off the
bouncing along the limb or log. Even for work when the weather is windy, stormy
During Operation those compact saws designed for use in or rainfall is heavy.
confined spaces, one-handed operation
Holding and controlling the power
is dangerous because the operator may
tool
lose control.
Always hold the unit firmly with both
hands on the handles while you are !Warning!
working. Wrap your fingers and thumbs To reduce the risk of cut injuries, keep
around the handles. hands and feet away from the cutting
tool. Never touch a moving cutting tool
with your hand or any other part of your
body.
001BA087 LÄ
MS 290, MS 310, MS 390 9
11. English / USA
!Warning!
Even though bystanders should be kept
away from the running saw, never work
alone. Keep within calling distance of
others in case help is needed.
001BA082 KN
!Warning!
As soon as the engine is
running, this product
Position the chainsaw in such a way that generates toxic exhaust
your body is clear of the cutting fumes containing
attachment whenever the engine is chemicals, such as
running. Stand to the left of cut while unburned hydrocarbons
bucking. (including benzene) and carbon
monoxide, that are known to cause
001BA031 KN
Never put pressure on the saw when
respiratory problems, cancer, birth
reaching the end of a cut. The pressure
defects, or other reproductive harm.
may cause the bar and rotating chain to
Some of the gases (e.g. carbon
pop out of the cut or kerf, go out of
control and strike the operator or some monoxide) may be colorless and
odorless. To reduce the risk of serious or
!Warning! other object. If the rotating chain strikes
fatal injury/illness from inhaling toxic
some other object, a reactive force may
To reduce the risk of injury from loss of fumes, never run the machine indoors or
cause the moving chain to strike the
control, never work on a ladder or any in poorly ventilated locations. If exhaust
operator.
other insecure support. Never hold the fumes become concentrated due to
machine above shoulder height. Do not insufficient ventilation, clear
overreach. obstructions from work area to permit
Working conditions proper ventilation before proceeding
!Warning! Operate and start your power tool only and/or take frequent breaks to allow
Never work in a tree unless you have outdoors in a well ventilated area. fumes to dissipate before they become
received specific, professional training Operate it under good visibility and concentrated.
for such work, are properly secured daylight conditions only. Work carefully.
(such as tackle and harness system or a
lift bucket), have both hands free for !Warning!
operating the chainsaw in a cramped Your chainsaw is a one-person machine.
environment and have taken proper Do not allow other persons in the
precautions to avoid injury from falling general work area, even when starting.
limbs or branches. Stop the engine immediately if you are
approached.
10 MS 290, MS 310, MS 390
12. English / USA
!Warning! !Warning! !Warning!
Inhalation of certain dusts, especially Breathing asbestos dust is dangerous The saw chain continues to move for a
organic dusts such as mold or pollen, and can cause severe or fatal injury, short period after the throttle trigger is
can cause susceptible persons to have respiratory illness or cancer. The use released (flywheel effect).
an allergic or asthmatic reaction. and disposal of asbestos-containing
Accelerating the engine while the saw
Substantial or repeated inhalation of products have been strictly regulated by
chain is blocked increases the load and
dust and other airborne contaminants, in OSHA and the Environmental Protection
will cause the clutch to slip continuously.
particular those with a smaller particle Agency. If you have any reason to
This may occur if the throttle is
size, may cause respiratory or other believe that you might be cutting
depressed for more than a few seconds
illnesses. This includes wood dust, asbestos, immediately contact your
when the chain is pinched in the cut or
especially from hardwoods, but also employer or a local OSHA
the chain brake is engaged. It can result
from some softwoods such as Western representative.
in overheating and damage to important
Red Cedar. Control dust at the source
components (e.g. clutch, polymer
where possible. Use good work
housing components) – which can then
practices, such as always cutting with a
Operating instructions increase the risk of injury, e.g., from the
properly sharpened chain (which
saw chain moving while the engine is
produces wood chips rather than fine !Warning! idling.
dust) and operating the unit so that the
Do not operate your power tool using the
wind or operating process directs any
starting throttle lock, as you do not have ! Warning!
dust raised by the power tool away from
control of the engine speed. Your chainsaw is equipped with a chain
the operator. Follow the
catcher. It is designed to reduce the risk
recommendations of EPA/OSHA/ In the event of an emergency, switch off
of personal injury in the event of a
NIOSH and occupational and trade the engine immediately – move the slide
thrown or broken chain. From time to
associations with respect to dust control / stop switch to 0 or STOP.
time, the catcher may be damaged or
(“particulate matter”). When the
inhalation of dust cannot be substantially !Warning! removed. To reduce the risk of personal
injury, do not operate a chainsaw with a
controlled, i.e., kept at or near the Always stop the engine before putting a
damaged or missing chain catcher.
ambient (background) level, the chainsaw down.
operator and any bystanders should
wear a respirator approved by NIOSH/
MSHA for the type of dust encountered.
MS 290, MS 310, MS 390 11
13. English / USA
! Warning! !Warning! !Warning!
Inspect buffers periodically. Replace To reduce the risk of fire and burn injury, Since a muffler with a catalytic converter
damaged, broken or excessively worn keep the area around the muffler clean. cools down less rapidly than conven-
buffers immediately, since they may Remove excess lubricant and all debris tional mufflers, always set your power
result in loss of control of the saw. A such as pine needles, branches or tool down in the upright position and
"sponginess" in the feel of the saw, leaves. Let the engine cool down sitting never locate it where the muffler is near
increased vibration or increased on concrete, metal, bare ground or solid dry brush, grass, wood chips or other
"bottoming" during normal operation wood (e.g. the trunk of a felled tree) combustible materials while it is still hot.
may indicate damage, breakage or away from any combustible substances.
excessive wear. Buffers should always !Warning!
be replaced in sets. If you have any !Warning! An improperly mounted or damaged
questions as to whether the buffers Never modify your muffler. A modified or shroud or a damaged/deformed muffler
should be replaced, consult your STIHL damaged muffler could cause an shell may interfere with the cooling
servicing dealer. increase in heat radiation or sparks, process of the catalytic converter. To
thereby increasing the risk of fire and reduce the risk of fire or burn injury, do
!Warning! burn injury. You may also permanently not continue work with a damaged or
Your saw is not designed for prying or damage the engine. Have your muffler improperly mounted cylinder shroud or a
shoveling away limbs, roots or other serviced and repaired by your STIHL damaged/deformed muffler shell.
objects. Such use could damage the servicing dealer only.
Your catalytic converter is furnished with
cutting attachment or AV system.
screens designed to reduce the risk of
!Warning! Catalytic converter fire from the emission of hot particles.
Due to the heat from the catalytic
When sawing, make sure that the saw !Warning! reaction, these screens will normally
chain does not touch any foreign
Some STIHL power tools stay clean and need no service or
materials such as rocks, fences, nails
are equipped with a maintenance. If you experience loss of
and the like. Such objects may be flung
catalytic converter, which performance and you suspect a clogged
off, damage the saw chain or cause the
is designed to reduce the screen, have your muffler maintained by
saw to kickback.
exhaust emissions of the a STIHL servicing dealer.
!Warning! engine by a chemical
process in the muffler. Due to this
The muffler and other parts of the engine
process, the muffler does not cool down
(e.g. fins of the cylinder, spark plug)
as rapidly as conventional mufflers when
become hot during operation and remain
the engine returns to idle or is shut off.
hot for a while after stopping the engine.
To reduce the risk of fire and burn
To reduce risk of burns do not touch the
injuries, the following specific safety
muffler and other parts while they are
precautions must be observed.
hot.
12 MS 290, MS 310, MS 390
14. English / USA
Reactive forces including kickback Kickback: Kickback may occur, for example,
when the chain near the upper quadrant
!Warning! Kickback may occur when
of the bar nose contacts the wood or is
the moving saw chain
Reactive forces may occur any time the pinched during limbing or when it is
near the upper quadrant
chain is rotating. Reactive forces can incorrectly used to begin a plunge or
of the bar nose contacts a
cause serious personal injury. boring cut.
solid object or is pinched.
The greater the force of the kickback
reaction, the more difficult it becomes for
the operator to control the saw. Many
factors influence the occurrence and
force of the kickback reaction. These
include chain speed, the speed at which
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 suddenly STIHL bar and chain types are designed
stopped by contact with any solid object to reduce kickback forces. STIHL
such as a log or branch or is pinched, the recommends the use of reduced
reactive forces may occur instantly. kickback bars and low kickback chains.
001BA035 KN
These reactive forces may result in loss
of control, which, in turn, may cause
serious or fatal injury. An understanding ANSI B 175.1-2000 chainsaw
of the causes of these reactive forces kickback standard
may help you avoid the element of
The reaction of the cutting force of the Section 5.11 of ANSI standard
surprise and loss of control. Sudden
chain causes a rotational force on the B 175.1-2000, sets certain performance
surprise contributes to accidents.
chainsaw in the direction opposite to the and design criteria related to chainsaw
chain movement. This may fling the bar kickback.
up and back in a ligtening fast reaction in
The most common reactive forces are: To comply with section 5.11 of ANSI
an uncontrolled arc mainly in the plane
– kickback, of the bar. Under some cutting B 175.1-2000:
– pushback, circumstances the bar moves towards
the operator, who may suffer severe or
– pull-in.
fatal injury.
MS 290, MS 310, MS 390 13
15. English / USA
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.
powerhead 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 automatically 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, never use a
brake, low kickback chain, reduced !Warning! saw if the chain brake does not function
kickback bar, etc. properly. Take the saw to your local
In order for powerheads below 3.8 cubic
STIHL servicing dealer. Do not use the
inch (62 cm³) displacement to comply
saw until the problem has been rectified.
b) Saws with a displacement of with the computed kickback angle
3.8 cubic inches (62 cm³) and above requirements of § 5.11 of ANSI B 175.1-
2000 use only the following cutting
– must be equipped with at least one STIHL Quickstop chain brake
attachments:
device designed to reduce the risk
of kickback injury, such as a chain – bar and chain combinations listed STIHL has developed a chain stopping
brake, low kickback chain, reduced as complying in the "Specifications" system designed to reduce the risk of
kickback bar, etc. section of the instruction manual or injury in certain kickback situations. It is
– other replacement bar and chain called a Quickstop chain brake. The
The computer derived angles for saws
combinations marked in Quickstop chain brake is standard
below 3.8 cubic inch (62 cm³)
accordance with the standard for equipment on your STIHL chainsaw.
displacement are measured by applying
a computer program to test results from use on the powerhead or
a kickback test machine. – replacement chain designated
"low kickback saw chain.“
!Warning!
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.
14 MS 290, MS 310, MS 390
16. English / USA
!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 the chain after activation, or may not
and other parts of your body. In addition, activate at all.
removal of the hand guard on a saw
equipped with a Quickstop chain brake !Warning!
will deactivate the chain brake. Never run the chainsaw above idle
speed for more than 3 seconds when the
!Warning! chain brake is engaged or when the
No Quickstop or other chain brake chain is pinched or otherwise caught in
device prevents kickback. These the cut. Clutch slippage can cause
devices are designed to reduce the risk excessive heat, leading to severe
of kickback injury, if activated, in certain damage of the motor housing, clutch
kickback situations. In order for the and oiler component and may interfere
001BA174 KN
Quickstop to reduce the risk of kickback with the operation of the chain brake. If
injury, it must be properly maintained clutch slippage in excess of 3 seconds
and in good working order. See the has occurred, allow the motor housing to
chapter of your instruction manual cool before proceeding and check the
When a kickback occurs, the guide bar entitled "Chain Brake" and the section operation of your chain brake as
may rotate around the front handle. If the "Maintenance, Repair and Storing" at described in the chapter entitled "Chain
cutting position is such that the the end of these Safety Precautions. In Brake" of your instruction manual. Also
operator's left hand is gripping the front addition, there must be enough distance make sure that the chain is not turning at
handle behind the hand guard, and if the between the bar and the operator to idle speed (see above at "Important
left hand rotates around the front handle ensure that the Quickstop has sufficient Adjustments").
and makes a sufficiently forceful contact time to activate and stop the chain
with the front hand guard, which is the before potential contact with the
Quickstop activating lever, this contact operator.
will activate a properly maintained
Quickstop chain brake. The chain brake
on newer STIHL chainsaws can also be
activated by inertia. If the kickback
forces are sufficiently high, the hand
guard is accelerated towards the bar
nose even without hand contact. See the
chapter entitled "Chain Brake" of your
instruction manual.
MS 290, MS 310, MS 390 15
17. English / USA
Low kickback saw chain and reduced Please ask your STIHL dealer to Low kickback chain
kickback bars properly match your powerhead with the
Some types of saw chain have specially
appropriate bar/chain combination to
STIHL offers a variety of bars and designed components to reduce the
reduce the risk of kickback injury. Green
chains. STIHL reduced kickback bars force of nose contact kickback. STIHL
labeled bars and chains are
and low kickback chains are designed to has developed low kickback chain for
recommended for all powerheads.
reduce the risk of kickback injury. Other your powerhead.
chains are designed to obtain higher Warning!
"Low kickback saw chain" is a chain
cutting efficiency or sharpening ease but
Use of other, non-listed bar/chain which has met the kickback
may result in higher kickback tendency.
combinations may increase kickback performance requirements of § 5.11.2.4
STIHL has developed a color code forces and the risk of kickback injury. of ANSI B 175.1-2000 (Gasoline-
system to help you identify the STIHL New bar/chain combinations may be Powered Chain Saws–Safety
reduced kickback bars and low kickback developed after publication of this Requirements) when tested in its
chains. Cutting attachments with green literature, which will, in combination with original condition on a selected
warning decals or green labels on the certain powerheads, comply with representative sample of chainsaws
packaging are designed to reduce the § 5.11 of ANSI B 175.1-2000. Check below 3.8 cubic inch (62 cm³)
risk of kickback injury. The matching of with your STIHL dealer for such displacement specified in
green decaled powerheads under 3.8 combinations. ANSI B 175.1-2000.
cubic inch (62 cm³) displacement with
green labeled bars and green labeled !Warning! !Warning!
chains gives compliance with the Reduced kickback bars and low There are potential powerhead and bar
computed kickback angle requirements kickback chains do not prevent combinations with which low kickback
of ANSI B 175.1-2000 when the kickback, but they are designed to saw chains can be used which have not
products are in their original condition. reduce the risk of kickback injury. They been specifically certified to comply with
Products with yellow decals or labels are are available from your STIHL dealer. the 45° computer derived kickback
for users with extraordinary cutting angle of § 5.11 of ANSI B 175.1-2000.
needs and experience and specialized !Warning! Some low kickback chains have not
training for dealing with kickback. Even if your saw is equipped with a been tested with all powerhead and bar
Quickstop, a reduced kickback bar and/ combinations.
STIHL recommends the use of its
or low kickback chain, this does not
green labeled reduced kickback bars,
eliminate the risk of injury by kickback. !Warning!
green labeled low kickback chains
and a STIHL Quickstop chain brake Therefore, always observe all safety A dull or improperly sharpened chain
for both experienced and precautions to avoid kickback situations. may reduce or negate the effects of the
inexperienced chainsaw users. design features intended to reduce
kickback energy. Improper lowering or
sharpening of the depth gauges or
shaping of the cutters may increase the
chance and the potential energy of a
kickback. Always cut with a properly
sharpened chain.
16 MS 290, MS 310, MS 390
18. English / USA
Reduced kickback bars To avoid kickback A = Pull-in
STIHL green labeled reduced kickback The best protection from personal injury
bars are designed to reduce the risk of that may result from kickback is to avoid
kickback injury when used with STIHL kickback situations:
green labeled low kickback chains.
1. Hold the chainsaw firmly with both
!Warning! hands and maintain a secure grip.
Don’t let go.
001BA037 KN
When used with other, more aggressive
chains, these bars may be less effective 2. Be aware of the location of the guide
in reducing kickback. bar nose at all times. A
3. Never let the nose of the guide bar
contact any object. Do not cut limbs Pull-in occurs when the chain on the
Bow Guides with the nose of the guide bar. Be bottom of the bar is suddenly stopped
especially careful near wire fences when it is pinched, caught or encounters
!Warning! and when cutting small, tough a foreign object in the wood. The
Do not mount a bow guide on any STIHL limbs, small size brush and saplings reaction of the chain pulls the saw
chainsaw. Any chainsaw equipped with which may easily catch the chain. forward and may cause the operator to
a bow guide is potentially very 4 Don't overreach. lose control.
dangerous. The risk of kickback is
5. Don't cut above shoulder height. Pull-in frequently occurs when the
increased with a bow guide because of
6. Begin cutting and continue at full bumper spike of the saw is not held
the increased kickback contact area.
throttle. securely against the tree or limb and
Low kickback chain will not significantly
when the chain is not rotating at full
reduce the risk of kickback injury when 7. Cut only one log at a time. speed before it contacts the wood.
used on a bow guide. 8. Use extreme caution when
reentering a previous cut. !Warning!
9. Do not attempt to plunge cut if you Use extreme caution when cutting small
are not experienced with these size brush and saplings which may
cutting techniques. easily catch the chain, be whipped
towards you or pull you off balance.
10. Be alert for shifting of the log or
other forces that may cause the cut To avoid pull-in
to close and pinch the chain.
1. Always start a cut with the chain
11. Maintain saw chain properly. Cut rotating at full speed and the
with a correctly sharpened, properly bumper spike in contact with the
tensioned chain at all times. wood.
12. Stand to the side of the cutting path 2. The risk of pull-in may also be
of the chainsaw. reduced by using wedges to open
the kerf or cut.
MS 290, MS 310, MS 390 17
19. English / USA
B = Pushback Cutting Techniques Felling Instructions:
Felling
Felling is cutting down a tree.
Before felling a tree, consider carefully
all conditions which may affect the
direction of fall.
001BA088 LÄ
001BA038 KN
!Warning! 1 1
1/ 2
B There are a number of factors that may
21/2
affect and change the intended direction
Pushback occurs when the chain on the of fall, e.g. wind direction and speed, When felling, maintain a distance of at
top of the bar is suddenly stopped when lean of tree, surrounding trees and least 2 1/2 tree lengths from the nearest
it is pinched, caught or encounters a obstacles, sloping ground, one-sided person.
foreign object in the wood. The reaction limb structure, wood structure, decay,
When felling in the vicinity of roads,
of the chain may drive the saw rapidely snow load, etc. To reduce the risk of
railways and power lines, etc., take extra
straight back toward the operator and severe or fatal injury to yourself or
precautions. Inform the police, utility
may cause loss of saw control. others, look for these conditions prior to
company or railway authority before
Pushback frequently occurs when the beginning the cut, and be alert for a
beginning to cut.
top of the bar is used for cutting. change in direction while the tree is
falling. !Warning!
The noise of your engine may drown any
To avoid pushback
warning call.
1. Be alert to forces or situations that !Warning!
may cause material to pinch the top Always observe the general condition of
of the chain. the tree. Inexperienced users should
2. Do not cut more than one log at a never attempt to cut trees that are
time. decayed or rotted inside or that are
leaning or otherwise under tension.
3. Do not twist the saw when
There is an increased risk that such
withdrawing the bar from a plunge
trees could snap or split while being cut
cut or underbuck cut because the
and cause serious or fatal injury to the
chain can pinch.
operator or bystanders. Also look for
broken or dead branches which could
vibrate loose and fall on the operator.
When felling on a slope, the operator
should stand on the uphill side if
possible.
18 MS 290, MS 310, MS 390
20. English / USA
Buttress roots
B
C
45°
001BA146 KN
A
45°
If the tree has large buttress roots, cut
into the largest buttress vertically first
(horizontally next) and remove the C
resulting piece.
001BA040 KN
001BA143 KN
B
Gunning sight
Escape path Conventional cut
First clear the tree base and work area C = felling notch - determines the
from interfering limbs and brush and direction of the fall
clean its lower portion with an ax. For a conventional cut:
001BA153 KN
Then, establish two paths of escape (B) : Properly place felling notch
and remove all obstacles. These paths perpendicular to the line of fall,
should be generally opposite to the close to the ground.
planned direction of the fall of the tree
When making the felling notch, use the : Cut down at approx. 45-degree
(A) and about at a 45° angle. Place all
gunning sight on the shroud and housing angle to a depth of about 1/5 to 1/4
tools and equipment a safe distance
to check the desired direction of fall: of the trunk diameter.
away from the tree, but not on the
escape paths. Position the saw so that the gunning : Make second cut horizontal.
sight points exactly in the direction you : Remove resulting 45-degree piece.
want the tree to fall.
MS 290, MS 310, MS 390 19
