STIHL Mini Boss Chainsaw Manual

The STIHL Mini Boss is a lightweight, professional-grade chainsaw designed for demanding cutting tasks. It features a powerful engine, advanced anti-vibration system, quick-stop chain brake, and STIHL's Ematic lubrication system for reduced oil consumption. Below are key sections for safety, features, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

1. Features at a Glance 2. Safety Information 3. Assembly & Preparation 4. Specifications 5. Controls and Components 6. Starting Procedure 7. Operation Guidelines 8. Maintenance Schedule 9. Chain Sharpening & Tensioning 10. Storage Guidelines 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: High-performance engine, Quickstop chain brake, Anti-vibration system, Ematic chain lubrication, Side-access chain tensioner, and Decompression valve.

FeatureDescription
Engine Type2-stroke, single-cylinder gasoline engine
DisplacementXX cc (refer to specific model)
Guide Bar LengthTypically 14" to 16" (varies by model)
Chain BrakeQuickstop inertia-activated safety feature
Anti-VibrationReduces operator fatigue during extended use
Lubrication SystemSTIHL Ematic for efficient oil delivery
Fuel Tank CapacityApprox. XX fl oz
Oil Tank CapacityApprox. XX fl oz
Ignition SystemElectronic, capacitor discharge
Weight (powerhead)Approx. XX lbs

Safety Information

Read and understand all instructions before operation. Always wear proper PPE.

  1. Personal Protective Equipment: Wear safety glasses, hearing protection, gloves, chainsaw chaps/pants, and sturdy boots.
  2. Work Area Safety: Clear area of obstacles and bystanders. Ensure secure footing.
  3. Chain Brake: Test before each use. Engage when carrying or not cutting.
  4. Kickback Awareness: Avoid contact with bar nose; use reduced-kickback chain.

WARNING! Chainsaws are dangerous. Failure to follow safety rules can result in serious injury or death. Never operate when tired or under the influence.

Assembly & Preparation

Unpack and inspect contents. Assemble guide bar and chain.

  1. Attach Guide Bar: Remove bar cover nuts, fit bar onto studs, align chain.
  2. Install Chain: Place chain over sprocket and bar, ensuring cutting teeth face forward on top.
  3. Tension Chain: Use side-access tensioner to achieve proper tension (snug but pullable).
  4. Fuel Mix: Use clean, high-octane gasoline mixed with STIHL 2-stroke oil at 50:1 ratio. Shake well.
  5. Fill Tanks: Add fuel mix to fuel tank and STIHL chain oil to oil tank.

CAUTION! Use only STIHL-approved oils. Improper fuel mix can cause engine damage.

Specifications

Controls and Components

Main Controls: Front handle with throttle trigger lockout, rear handle, master control lever, chain brake lever, decompression valve (if equipped).

Master Control Lever: Combines choke, stop switch, and run positions.

Components: Muffler, spark arrestor screen, air filter, fuel and oil caps, chain tensioner, bar cover nuts. Safety Features: Chain brake, throttle trigger lockout, right-hand guard.

Starting Procedure

Cold Start (with decompression valve if equipped):

  1. Engage chain brake by pushing forward until it clicks.
  2. Set master control lever to choke position (full up).
  3. Press decompression valve (if equipped).
  4. Place saw on firm ground, hold rear handle with right foot.
  5. Pull starter rope sharply until engine fires (1-3 pulls).
  6. Move master control to half-throttle position.
  7. Pull starter rope until engine starts.
  8. Blip throttle to disengage fast idle.

Tip: For warm start, set master control to run position (horizontal).

Operation Guidelines

Proper cutting techniques ensure safety and efficiency.

  1. Grip: Hold firmly with both hands, thumbs wrapped around handles.
  2. Stance: Stand with feet shoulder-width apart, balanced.
  3. Starting Cut: Apply light throttle, let chain reach speed before contact.
  4. Bucking: Support log properly; cut from top down, avoid ground contact.
  5. Limbing: Stand on opposite side of tree; cut downward branches first.
  6. Kickback Prevention: Keep nose of bar clear; do not overreach.
  7. Chain Brake: Engage when moving between cuts or if kickback occurs.

WARNING! Never operate above shoulder height or with one hand. Watch for falling limbs.

Maintenance Schedule

Regular maintenance ensures longevity and safe operation.

IntervalTask
Before each useCheck chain tension, sharpness, brake function, fuel/oil levels
Every 5 hoursClean air filter, check spark plug
Every 20 hoursClean spark arrestor screen, check fuel filter
Every 100 hoursClean cooling fins, check anti-vibration elements
AnnuallyProfessional servicing recommended

CAUTION! Always disconnect spark plug wire before performing maintenance.

Chain Sharpening & Tensioning

A sharp, properly tensioned chain is essential for safe operation.

  1. Sharpening: Use round file matching chain pitch (typically 5/32"). Maintain 30° cutting angle and 10° top plate angle. File all cutters to equal length.
  2. Depth Gauges: File down with flat file to maintain proper height (0.025" below cutter).
  3. Tensioning: Loosen bar nuts, adjust tensioner until chain snaps back when pulled from bar. Tighten bar nuts securely.
  4. Lubrication: Ensure oil tank is filled and oiler port on bar is clear.

Tip: Rotate chain periodically to ensure even wear.

Storage Guidelines

Proper storage prevents fuel system issues and corrosion.

  1. Empty fuel tank or add fuel stabilizer and run for 2 minutes.
  2. Run carburetor dry by disconnecting fuel line and letting engine stall.
  3. Remove chain, clean and oil it, store separately.
  4. Clean entire saw, especially cooling fins and air filter.
  5. Store in dry, secure location, away from ignition sources.

CAUTION! Never store with fuel in tank for more than 30 days without stabilizer.

Troubleshooting

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
Engine won't startNo spark, flooded, old fuelCheck spark plug; set control to run; use fresh fuel mix.
Engine runs poorlyDirty air filter, clogged fuel filterClean/replace air filter; replace fuel filter.
Chain doesn't turnBrake engaged, clutch wornDisengage chain brake; inspect clutch drum/sprocket.
Excessive vibrationLoose components, worn AV mountsTighten all fasteners; check anti-vibration elements.
Chain throws oilOver-oiling, wrong oil viscosityCheck oiler setting; use STIHL chain oil.
Chain dulls quicklyCutting dirty wood, improper filingAvoid ground contact; sharpen correctly.

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

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

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