MS 362C Chainsaw Stihl Owners Manual

The Stihl MS 362C is a professional-grade chainsaw featuring the innovative M-Tronic engine management system, which automatically adjusts the carburetor for optimal performance under varying conditions. It includes a decompression valve for easier starting, an ElastoStart handle for reduced starting resistance, a side-access chain tensioner, a Quickstop Super chain brake, and an anti-vibration system. Below are key sections for safety, features, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

Features at a Glance

Key components: M-Tronic engine control unit, decompression valve, ElastoStart handle, Quickstop Super chain brake, side-access chain tensioner, anti-vibration system, and tool-free air filter cover.

Safety Information

Read and understand all instructions before operation. Always wear appropriate Personal Protective Equipment (PPE).

1. PPE Requirements: Wear safety glasses, hearing protection, gloves, chainsaw chaps/pants, and sturdy boots.
2. Work Area Safety: Keep bystanders and pets at least 15 feet away. Ensure secure footing.
3. Kickback Zone: Be aware of the upper quadrant of the guide bar tip. Avoid contact in this area.
4. Chain Brake Check: Verify the chain brake functions correctly before each use.
5. Fuel Safety: Refuel in a well-ventilated area, with the engine off and cool. Use approved fuel containers.

WARNING! A chainsaw is a dangerous tool. Failure to follow safety instructions can result in serious injury or death. Never operate when fatigued or under the influence.

Assembly & First-Time Setup

Unpack and inspect contents. Assemble the guide bar and chain.

1. Attach Guide Bar & Chain: Loosen bar nuts. Place chain over sprocket, ensuring cutting teeth face forward on top of bar. Fit bar onto studs. Ensure chain is seated in bar groove.
2. Tension Chain: Lift tip of bar. Using side tensioner, adjust until chain fits snugly against bar but can be pulled around by hand. Tighten bar nuts.
3. Final Check: With saw on a stable surface, pull chain around bar to check tension. Re-tighten bar nuts after initial use.
4. Fill Fluids: Add Stihl MotoMix or equivalent 50:1 fuel/oil mixture to fuel tank. Fill bar and chain oil reservoir with Stihl chain oil or equivalent.

CAUTION! Ensure the chain brake is disengaged (pulled back toward the front handle) during assembly.

Specifications

• Engine Displacement: 59.0 cm³ (3.6 cu. in.)
• Power Output: 3.6 kW (4.8 bhp)
• Weight (powerhead only): 5.9 kg (13.0 lbs)
• Fuel Tank Volume: 0.55 L (18.6 fl. oz.)
• Oil Tank Volume: 0.26 L (8.8 fl. oz.)
• Recommended Guide Bar Lengths: 40 cm (16"), 45 cm (18"), 50 cm (20")
• Chain Pitch/Gauge: 3/8" PM / .050" (1.3 mm)
• Ignition System: Electronic, M-Tronic controlled
• Sound Power Level (LWA): 112 dB(A)
• Vibration Levels (Front/Rear Handle): 3.2/2.5 m/s²

Controls and Components

Master Control Lever: Combines stop switch, choke, and fast-idle functions. Front Handle: Includes throttle trigger and throttle trigger lockout. Rear Handle: Contains Master Control Lever and start/stop functions.

Key Controls: Master Control Lever (Stop-0, Run-I, Cold Start-Choke, Warm Start-Fast Idle), Throttle Trigger, Throttle Trigger Lockout, Chain Brake Lever, Decompression Valve Button, Fuel/Oil Tank Caps, Chain Tensioner.

Maintenance Points: Air Filter Cover, Spark Plug, Cylinder Cover, Chain Sprocket, Muffler.

Fuel & Lubrication

Use only high-quality, unleaded gasoline with a minimum octane rating of 89 (RON). Mix with a high-performance, 2-stroke engine oil at a 50:1 ratio. Stihl MotoMix pre-mixed fuel is recommended.

1. Fuel Mixture: For 1 gallon of gas, add 2.6 oz of Stihl 2-Stroke Oil. Shake container thoroughly.
2. Bar & Chain Oil: Use Stihl chain oil or a biodegradable alternative with good adhesion properties. Do not use waste oil.
3. Filling: Clean area around caps. Fill tanks slowly to avoid spillage. Wipe up any spills immediately.

Tip: Use a clearly marked, approved fuel container. Never store fuel mix for longer than 60 days.

Starting & Operation

Follow the correct starting procedure to avoid flooding and ensure safe operation.

1. Cold Start: Engage chain brake. Set Master Control Lever to choke position ( ). Pull starter rope sharply until engine fires once. Move lever to fast-idle position ( ). Pull starter rope to start. Briefly blip throttle to return to idle.
2. Warm Start: Set Master Control Lever to run position (I). Pull starter rope.
3. Operation: Disengage chain brake by pulling brake handle toward you. Hold saw firmly with both hands. Use the bumper spike for leverage when making cuts. Let the saw do the work; avoid forcing it.
4. Stopping: Release throttle and allow engine to idle. Push Master Control Lever to stop position (0).

WARNING! Always start the saw on the ground or a firm surface, with the chain brake engaged and clear of obstructions.

Maintenance Schedule

Regular maintenance ensures safety, performance, and longevity.

Chain & Bar Care

Proper chain maintenance is critical for safety and cutting performance.

1. Sharpening: Use a round file matching the chain pitch (e.g., 5.5mm). Maintain the correct filing angle (typically 30°). File all cutters to the same length. File depth gauges (rakers) with a flat file and gauge.
2. Bar Maintenance: Regularly clean the bar groove and oil holes. Flip the bar over periodically for even wear. Check for wear, especially "burring" on the rails.
3. Lubrication: Ensure oiler is working. Chain should throw a fine line of oil when running at full throttle against a light-colored surface.

CAUTION! Always wear heavy gloves when handling the chain. A sharp chain is safer than a dull one as it requires less force.

Storage

Prepare the saw for storage to prevent fuel system issues and corrosion.

1. Run the saw until the fuel tank is empty.
2. Remove the chain and bar. Clean thoroughly and coat with oil.
3. Clean the entire saw, removing sawdust and debris from cooling fins and air filter area.
4. Store in a dry, secure place, out of reach of children.
5. For long-term storage (over 30 days), it is recommended to have the carburetor drained by a Stihl authorized servicing dealer.

Tip: Use Stihl Fuel Stabilizer if you cannot completely drain the fuel system.

Troubleshooting

M-Tronic Reset: If engine runs poorly, let it idle for 3-5 minutes with no throttle input to allow system to recalibrate.

Service: For complex issues, contact an authorized Stihl servicing dealer. Find a dealer at www.stihlusa.com or call 1-800-467-8445.