Stihl Chainsaw MS 180 Owner's Manual

The Stihl MS 180 is a lightweight, easy-to-handle chainsaw designed for homeowners and occasional users. It features a powerful gasoline engine, STIHL Quickstop® inertia chain brake, Ematic™ lubrication system, and STIHL ErgoStart™ for easier starting. 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.

Safety Information

Read and understand all safety warnings before operation.

1. Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): Always 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. Chain Brake Check: Test chain brake function before each use.
4. Kickback Awareness: Understand kickback zones (upper quadrant of guide bar tip).

WARNING! Chainsaws are dangerous tools. Failure to follow safety instructions can result in serious injury or death. Never operate when tired, under the influence, or in poor weather conditions.

Assembly & Preparation

Assemble your chainsaw from the box.

1. Attach Guide Bar and Chain: Place bar on studs, loop chain over bar (cutting edges facing forward on top), adjust tension, and secure side cover.
2. Fill Fuel Tank: Use fresh, high-quality gasoline mixed with STIHL 2-cycle engine oil at 50:1 ratio (or as specified).
3. Fill Oil Tank: Use STIHL chain oil or equivalent for lubrication.
4. Check Chain Tension: Chain should be snug against bar but pull freely by hand.

CAUTION! Fuel is highly flammable. Refuel in a well-ventilated area, away from ignition sources. Wipe up spills immediately.

Specifications

• Engine Displacement: 1.8 kW (2.4 bhp).
• Powerhead Weight: Approximately 8.8 lbs (4.0 kg).
• Guide Bar Lengths: Typically 14" to 16".
• Fuel/Oil Mix Ratio: 50:1 (Gasoline to STIHL 2-Stroke Oil).
• Fuel Tank Capacity: 0.42 US pt (0.2 l).
• Oil Tank Capacity: 0.25 US pt (0.12 l).
• Sound Pressure Level: Approx. 105 dB(A).
• Vibration Level: Left/Right handles approx. 4.5/5.5 m/s².
• Ignition System: Electronic, capacitor discharge.

Controls and Components

Familiarize yourself with all controls before starting.

Right Side: Throttle trigger, throttle trigger lockout, rear handle. Left Side: Master control lever (Stop/Choke/Run positions), chain brake lever/hand guard, decompression valve (if equipped). Top: Fuel cap, oil cap. Front: Muffler, guide bar, chain.

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

Starting & Stopping

Starting (Cold Engine):

1. Engage chain brake by pushing hand guard forward until it clicks.
2. Press fuel primer bulb (if equipped) 5-6 times.
3. Set master control lever to CHOKE (◊).
4. Place saw on ground, hold rear handle with right foot, pull starter handle slowly until resistance is felt, then pull briskly.
5. After engine fires, move lever to RUN (I) and pull starter again to start.
6. Blip throttle to disengage high idle.

Stopping: Release throttle, move master control lever to STOP (0).

Tip: For warm restart, set lever directly to RUN (I).

Operating Instructions

Proper cutting techniques ensure safety and efficiency.

1. Basic Stance: Stand with feet shoulder-width apart, left foot slightly forward. Hold saw firmly with both hands.
2. Starting a Cut: Let the chain reach full speed before contacting wood. Do not force the saw.
3. Bucking (Cutting Logs): Support log off ground. Cut from top down. Beware of binding.
4. Limbing: Cut limbs from bottom side of trunk. Watch for springback.
5. Kickback Prevention: Do not cut with the upper tip of the bar. Maintain a firm grip.

WARNING! Never operate the chainsaw above shoulder height or with one hand. Always be aware of where the tip of the bar is.

Maintenance Schedule

Regular maintenance ensures long life and safe operation.

Chain Sharpening & Tensioning

A sharp, properly tensioned chain is essential.

1. Tensioning: Loosen bar nuts. Use adjustment screw to raise bar until chain is snug (can be pulled around by hand). Retighten nuts.
2. Sharpening: Use a round file (e.g., 5/32" for PM3 chain) and file guide. Maintain factory angle (typically 30°). File all cutters to equal length. File depth gauges with a flat file and gauge.

CAUTION! Wear heavy gloves when handling chain. Ensure saw is off and cool before maintenance.

Storage

Prepare saw for storage periods longer than 30 days.

1. Drain fuel tank and run engine until it stops to clear carburetor.
2. Remove chain and bar, clean, and coat with oil.
3. Clean entire saw and store in a dry, secure place.
4. For long-term storage, have your STIHL dealer perform an end-of-season service.

WARNING! Storing fuel mix in the saw can cause carburetor damage. Always use fresh fuel mix.

Troubleshooting

Service: For repairs beyond basic maintenance, contact an authorized STIHL servicing dealer.

Support: STIHL Incorporated, 1-800-467-8445, www.stihlusa.com