Stihl 210 Chainsaw Manual

The Stihl 210 is a lightweight, easy-to-use gasoline-powered chainsaw designed for homeowners and occasional users. It features a powerful engine, anti-vibration system, Quickstop inertia chain brake, STIHL Ematic lubrication system, and tool-free chain tensioning. 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 and oil tanks.

Feature	Description
Engine	Gasoline-powered, 2-stroke engine with easy-start system
Anti-Vibration System	Reduces operator fatigue during extended use
Quickstop Inertia Chain Brake	Stops the chain instantly in case of kickback
STIHL Ematic System	Efficient chain lubrication for reduced oil consumption
Tool-Free Chain Tensioning	Adjust chain tension quickly without tools
Side Access Chain Tensioner	Easy access for chain adjustment
Master Control Lever	Combines choke, throttle lock, and stop functions
Fuel Tank	Transparent for easy fuel level checking
Oil Tank	For chain lubrication oil
Safety Throttle Lock	Prevents accidental throttle activation

Safety Information

Read and understand all safety instructions before operating the chainsaw.

1. Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): Always wear safety glasses, hearing protection, gloves, chainsaw chaps, and sturdy boots.
2. Clear Work Area: Ensure no bystanders, especially children or pets, are within 15 feet.
3. Kickback Zone: Avoid contact with the upper quarter of the guide bar tip.
4. Secure Workpiece: Material being cut must be firmly supported.
5. Carrying: Always carry the chainsaw with the engine stopped, guide bar to the rear.

WARNING! Failure to follow safety instructions can result in serious injury or death. The chain brake is a safety device but does not eliminate the risk of kickback.

Assembly & First Use

Unpack and inspect contents. Assemble guide bar and chain.

1. Attach Guide Bar & Chain: Place bar on studs, loop chain around bar with cutting teeth facing forward on top. Fit drive links into bar groove. Install bar nut and tighten.
2. Fill Fuel Tank: Use fresh, high-quality gasoline mixed with STIHL 2-stroke engine oil at a 50:1 ratio. Shake well.
3. Fill Oil Tank: Use STIHL chain oil or a quality biodegradable bar & chain oil.
4. Check Chain Tension: Chain should be snug against the bar but pull freely by hand. Adjust using side tensioner.

CAUTION! Fuel is highly flammable. Refuel outdoors with engine stopped and cooled. Wipe off any spills.

Specifications

• Engine Displacement: 30.1 cc
• Power Output: 1.3 kW (1.8 bhp)
• Fuel/Oil Ratio: 50:1 (Gasoline to STIHL 2-Stroke Oil)
• Guide Bar Lengths: 12", 14", 16" (depending on model)
• Chain Pitch: 3/8" PMM
• Chain Gauge: .043" (1.1 mm)
• Weight (Powerhead): Approximately 8.6 lbs (3.9 kg)
• Sound Pressure Level: 104 dB(A)
• Vibration Level (Front/Rear Handle): 4.5/3.5 m/s²

Controls and Components

Familiarize yourself with all controls before starting.

Right Side: Throttle trigger, throttle lockout, rear handle, master control lever (choke/run/stop).

Left Side: Chain brake lever (front hand guard), oil filler cap, decompression valve (if equipped).

Top: Fuel filler cap, spark plug, starter grip.

Front: Guide bar, chain, bar nose sprocket, chain catcher.

Master Control Lever Positions: - STOP (0): Engine off. - RUN (I): Normal operation. - CHOKE (⏚): For cold starting.

Starting & Stopping the Engine

Starting (Cold Engine):

1. Engage chain brake by pushing hand guard forward until it clicks.
2. Set master control lever to CHOKE position (⏚).
3. Press the fuel primer bulb (if equipped) 5-10 times.
4. Place saw on firm ground. Hold rear handle with right foot, grip front handle with left hand.
5. Pull starter rope sharply until engine fires (usually 2-5 pulls).
6. Move master control lever to RUN (I) position.
7. Pull starter rope again to start engine. Allow to idle briefly.
8. Disengage chain brake by pulling hand guard back toward you.

Stopping: Release throttle, allow engine to idle. Move master control lever to STOP (0).

Operating the Chainsaw

1. Grip: Hold saw firmly with both hands, thumbs wrapped around handles.
2. Stance: Stand with feet shoulder-width apart, left foot slightly forward.
3. Cutting: Let the chain do the work. Apply light downward pressure. Do not force.
4. Kickback Awareness: Be alert. Never cut with the upper quarter of the bar tip.
5. Chain Lubrication: The oiler is automatic. Check oil level frequently and refill as needed.
6. Chain Brake Test: Before each use, test the chain brake by running the saw at idle and pushing the hand guard forward. The chain should stop immediately.

WARNING! Never operate the chainsaw above shoulder height or with one hand.

Chain & Bar Maintenance

Proper maintenance ensures performance and safety.

1. Chain Sharpening: Use a round file and file guide. Maintain correct filing angle (typically 30°). File all cutters to the same length.
2. Chain Tension: Check frequently, especially when new. A properly tensioned chain will not sag from the bar but can be pulled around by hand.
3. Bar Maintenance: Clean bar groove regularly. Flip the bar over each time you sharpen the chain to ensure even wear.
4. Sprocket Nose: Lubricate periodically with grease gun (if equipped).
5. Drive Sprocket: Inspect for wear. Replace if teeth are hooked or excessively worn.

Cleaning & Storage

Unplug spark plug boot before cleaning. Use a brush to remove sawdust and debris from air intake, cooling fins, and guide bar area.

Long-Term Storage (Over 30 days):

1. Drain all fuel from the tank and run the engine until it stops to clear the carburetor.
2. Remove chain and bar, clean, and coat with oil.
3. Clean entire saw.
4. Store in a dry, secure place, out of reach of children.

CAUTION! Never store a chainsaw with fuel in the tank for extended periods. Old fuel can damage the engine.

Warranty Information

STIHL Limited Warranty: The STIHL 210 chainsaw is backed by a 1-year limited warranty for personal, non-commercial use. Proof of purchase from an authorized STIHL dealer is required. Warranty covers defects in materials and workmanship. It does not cover damage from misuse, neglect, improper maintenance, or use of non-STIHL parts/fuel. For warranty service, contact your authorized STIHL dealer.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
Engine will not start	No fuel, flooded, bad spark plug, master control in wrong position	Check fuel, set control to RUN, pull with throttle locked open to clear flood, check/replace spark plug.
Engine starts but dies	Clogged air filter, old fuel, carburetor adjustment	Clean/replace air filter, use fresh fuel mix, see dealer for carb adjustment.
Chain does not turn or turns slowly	Chain brake engaged, low chain oil, worn drive sprocket, dull chain	Disengage brake, fill oil tank, check sprocket, sharpen chain.
Excessive vibration	Loose parts, damaged AV mounts, unbalanced chain	Tighten all nuts/bolts, inspect anti-vibration mounts, check chain sharpening.
Chain throws oil excessively	Oil output too high	Adjust oiler (if adjustable) or use heavier grade chain oil.
Poor cutting performance	Dull chain, incorrect filing angle, low chain tension	Sharpen chain correctly, check tension.

Service: For repairs beyond basic maintenance, take your STIHL chainsaw to an authorized STIHL servicing dealer.

Support: Visit www.stihlusa.com or contact your local STIHL dealer.