MS180 Chainsaw Manual

The MS180 is a lightweight, professional-grade chainsaw designed for homeowners and occasional users. It features a powerful 2.0 HP engine, STIHL Quickstop® inertia chain brake, Ematic™ lubrication system, and anti-vibration system. Below are key sections for safety, features, assembly, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

Features at a Glance

Key components: Engine, guide bar, saw chain, chain brake, throttle trigger, master control lever, fuel tank, oil tank.

Feature	Description
Engine Power	2.0 HP, single-cylinder two-stroke engine
Guide Bar Length	Available in 14", 16", and 18" options
Chain Brake	STIHL Quickstop® inertia-activated chain brake
Lubrication System	Ematic™ system for reduced oil consumption
Anti-Vibration	Dampened handles for reduced operator fatigue
Master Control Lever	Single-lever control for choke, start, and run positions
Fuel Tank Capacity	8.5 fl. oz. (250 ml)
Oil Tank Capacity	5.9 fl. oz. (175 ml)
Chain Tensioning	Side-access tensioner for easy adjustment
Weight (without bar/chain)	Approximately 8.6 lbs (3.9 kg)

Assembly & Preparation

Unpack and inspect all parts. Assemble on a clean, flat surface.

1. Attach guide bar and chain: Place bar on studs, loop chain over sprocket, align with bar groove.
2. Install bar nuts: Hand-tighten, then use combination wrench to secure.
3. Adjust chain tension: Use side-access tensioner until chain snaps back when pulled from bar.
4. Fill fuel tank: Use STIHL MotoMix® or 50:1 gasoline/oil mixture.
5. Fill oil tank: Use STIHL chain oil or equivalent.

WARNING! Always wear protective gear: gloves, eye protection, hearing protection, chainsaw chaps, and sturdy boots.

First-Time Operation

Perform pre-start checks before each use.

1. Check chain tension: Chain should be snug against bar but pull freely.
2. Check lubrication: Ensure oil tank is filled and oiler is working.
3. Start engine: Set master control to choke (cold start), pull starter rope until engine fires, move lever to run, pull again to start.
4. Warm up: Allow engine to idle for 30 seconds before cutting.
5. Test chain brake: With engine idling, engage brake by pushing front hand guard forward.

CAUTION! Never start the saw unless the chain brake is disengaged and the chain is clear of obstructions.

Specifications

• Engine Displacement: 30.1 cc.
• Power Output: 2.0 HP (1.5 kW).
• Fuel/Oil Ratio: 50:1 (STIHL MotoMix® recommended).
• Idle Speed: 2,800 RPM.
• Maximum Power Speed: 12,500 RPM.
• Sound Pressure Level: 104 dB(A).
• Vibration Level (front/rear): 4.5/2.5 m/s².
• Chain Pitch: 3/8" PMM3.
• Drive Links: Varies by bar length (e.g., 52 for 16" bar).
• Warranty: Limited 1-year consumer warranty.

Controls and Functions

Master Control Lever: Combines choke, start, and run functions. Throttle Trigger: Controls engine speed. Throttle Trigger Lockout: Must be depressed to engage throttle. Chain Brake Lever: Manual engagement; inertia-activated. Front Hand Guard: Activates chain brake when pushed forward. Decompression Valve: Reduces pulling effort for starting.

Starting Procedure: Set master control to choke (cold) or run (warm). Depress throttle trigger lockout. Pull starter rope sharply until engine fires. Move master control to run position. Pull starter rope again to start.

Chain & Bar Maintenance

Regular maintenance ensures optimal performance and safety.

1. Chain sharpening: Use round file (4.0 mm) at 30° angle; file all cutters evenly.
2. Depth gauge adjustment: Use flat file to maintain 0.025" (0.65 mm) clearance.
3. Bar maintenance: Clean bar groove weekly; flip bar monthly for even wear.
4. Sprocket inspection: Replace if worn or damaged.
5. Tension adjustment: Adjust when chain sags; should snap back when pulled.

Tip: Always stop engine and disconnect spark plug before performing maintenance.

Fuel & Lubrication

Use fresh, high-quality fuel and lubricants.

1. Fuel mixture: 50:1 ratio of unleaded gasoline (89 octane minimum) and STIHL 2-cycle oil.
2. Alternative: STIHL MotoMix® pre-mixed fuel (no mixing required).
3. Chain oil: STIHL chain oil or equivalent for temperatures above 14°F (-10°C).
4. Storage: Empty fuel tank for long-term storage; run engine dry.
5. Oil pump adjustment: Located near oil tank cap; turn clockwise for more oil flow.

WARNING! Never use automotive oil, dirty fuel, or fuel older than 60 days.

Safety Features

Chain Brake: Stops chain within milliseconds if kickback occurs. Throttle Trigger Lockout: Prevents accidental throttle engagement. Right-Hand Guard: Protects hand from broken chain. Anti-Vibration System: Reduces fatigue. Chain Catcher: Prevents broken chain from striking operator.

Care & Storage

Clean after each use. Store in dry, secure location.

1. Clean air filter: Remove, tap clean, or wash with soapy water (if foam).
2. Clean cooling fins: Remove debris from cylinder fins.
3. Clean guide bar: Remove resin buildup from bar groove.
4. Long-term storage: Empty fuel tank, run engine dry, remove chain and store separately.
5. Spark plug: Clean and regap to 0.020" (0.5 mm) annually.

CAUTION! Never pressure wash; water can enter engine and electrical components.

Regulatory Information

EPA/CARB compliant: Meets emission standards for handheld engines. UL certified: Electrical components meet safety standards. Copyright © STIHL Incorporated. All rights reserved. STIHL and the STIHL logo are registered trademarks. For support, visit www.stihlusa.com or contact 1-800-467-8445.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
Engine won't start	Fuel, spark, or air	Check fuel freshness; clean spark plug; clean air filter.
Engine runs poorly	Clogged filter or carburetor	Clean/replace air filter; adjust carburetor (H/L screws).
Chain doesn't turn	Brake engaged or clutch	Disengage chain brake; check clutch drum and springs.
Chain throws oil	Over-oiling or wrong oil	Adjust oil pump; use correct chain oil.
Excessive vibration	Loose parts or damaged bar	Tighten all nuts/bolts; inspect bar for wear/damage.
Chain dulls quickly	Hitting ground or dirty wood	Avoid cutting into dirt; sharpen chain properly.

Reset: Allow engine to cool completely before troubleshooting.

Service: 1-800-467-8445; www.stihlusa.com