Stihl MS180 Chainsaw Manual

The Stihl MS180 is a lightweight, easy-to-use chainsaw designed for homeowners. It features a powerful engine, anti-vibration system, quick-stop chain brake, and tool-free fuel and oil caps. This manual covers safety, features, assembly, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting to ensure safe and efficient use.

1. Features at a Glance 2. Assembly & Preparation 3. First-Time Operation 4. Specifications 5. Controls and Functions 6. Chain & Bar Setup 8. Maintenance Schedule 9. Safety Features 10. Storage & Care 11. Regulatory Information 12. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: Engine, guide bar, chain, anti-vibration system, chain brake, fuel and oil caps.

Feature	Description
Engine	Gas-powered, 2-stroke engine with easy-start system
Guide Bar	Available in various lengths (e.g., 16-inch)
Chain	Low-kickback chain with safety features
Anti-Vibration System	Reduces user fatigue during operation
Chain Brake	Quick-stop inertia-activated brake for safety
Fuel Cap	Tool-free design for easy refueling
Oil Cap	Tool-free design for chain oil refill
Throttle Trigger	With safety throttle lockout
Master Control Lever	Combines choke, stop switch, and run positions
Decompression Valve	Reduces pulling force for easier starting

Assembly & Preparation

Unpack and inspect contents. Assemble on a stable surface.

Attach guide bar and chain: Place bar on mounting studs, fit chain, tighten tension.
Fill fuel tank: Use proper fuel/oil mix (50:1 ratio).
Fill chain oil tank: Use recommended bar and chain oil.
Check chain tension: Ensure proper slack (lift chain slightly from bar).

WARNING! Always wear protective gear: gloves, eye protection, hearing protection, and chainsaw chaps. Ensure work area is clear.

First-Time Operation

Start the chainsaw following proper procedure.

Engage chain brake: Push forward to lock chain.
Set Master Control Lever: Move to cold start position (choke).
Prime fuel pump (if equipped): Press several times.
Pull starter rope: Until engine fires, then move lever to run position.
Disengage chain brake: Pull back toward handle.
Test throttle: Ensure chain moves when throttle is pressed.

CAUTION! Never start the saw unless the chain brake is engaged. Keep hands away from the chain at all times.

Specifications

Engine Displacement: 31.8 cc (1.9 cu. in.)
Power Output: 1.8 kW (2.4 bhp)
Fuel Capacity: 250 ml (8.5 fl. oz.)
Oil Capacity: 145 ml (4.9 fl. oz.)
Guide Bar Lengths: Typically 14-inch to 16-inch
Chain Pitch: 3/8" PMM
Weight (without bar/chain): Approx. 4.1 kg (9.0 lbs)
Sound Pressure Level: Approx. 106 dB(A)
Vibration Level: Front handle: 4.5 m/s², Rear handle: 5.5 m/s²

Controls and Functions

Master Control Lever: Combines choke (cold start), run, and stop positions. Throttle Trigger: Controls engine speed; has safety lockout. Chain Brake: Inertia-activated; manual engagement via front hand guard. Decompression Valve: Reduces cylinder pressure for easier starting. Throttle Interlock: Must be depressed to activate throttle trigger.

Starting Procedure: Engage chain brake > Set Master Control to choke > Prime (if equipped) > Pull starter > Move lever to run > Disengage brake.

Chain & Bar Setup

Proper chain tension is critical for safe operation.

Loosen bar nuts using combination wrench.
Adjust tensioning screw to raise bar until chain fits snugly.
Lift chain at center of bar; drive links should not pull out of bar groove.
Tighten bar nuts while holding bar tip up.
Re-check tension after tightening.

Tip: Chain should move freely by hand when engine is off. Always check tension before each use and after brief run-in period.

Maintenance Schedule

Regular maintenance ensures longevity and safety.

Daily: Check chain tension, sharpness, and lubrication. Clean air intake.
Weekly: Clean spark arrestor screen (if equipped). Check fuel filter.
Monthly: Clean or replace air filter. Check spark plug.
Seasonally: Replace fuel filter. Clean cooling fins. Check all nuts/bolts.
Chain Sharpening: Use round file and guide; maintain proper angles.

WARNING! Always disconnect spark plug wire before performing maintenance. Use only Stihl-approved parts and lubricants.

Safety Features

Chain Brake: Stops chain within milliseconds if kickback occurs or manually activated. Throttle Lockout: Prevents accidental throttle engagement. Right-Hand Guard: Protects hand from chain. Anti-Vibration System: Reduces fatigue. Low-Kickback Chain: Reduces risk of sudden upward motion.

Storage & Care

For long-term storage, empty fuel tank or add fuel stabilizer. Run engine dry of fuel. Clean entire saw. Remove chain, clean and oil it. Store in dry, cool place away from ignition sources.

CAUTION! Never store with fuel in tank for more than 30 days without stabilizer. Keep out of reach of children.

Regulatory Information

EPA and CARB compliant for emissions. Meets ANSI B175.1 safety standards. Contains parts that may be subject to California Proposition 65 warnings. For genuine parts and service, contact authorized Stihl dealers. Copyright © by Stihl Incorporated. For support, visit www.stihlusa.com or contact 1-800-467-8445.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
Engine won't start	No fuel, flooded, spark plug	Check fuel mix; move control to run; dry spark plug; check for spark.
Engine runs then dies	Fuel filter, air filter, carburetor	Replace fuel filter; clean air filter; may need carb adjustment.
Chain doesn't turn	Brake engaged, clutch, sprocket	Disengage chain brake; check clutch drum and sprocket for wear.
Chain throws oil	Oil output, bar groove	Check oiler hole; clean bar groove; adjust oil flow screw.
Excessive vibration	Loose parts, chain imbalance	Tighten all nuts/bolts; check chain for damage or uneven sharpening.

Service: For repairs, contact authorized Stihl service dealer. Do not attempt major repairs yourself.

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