stihl ms 170 user manual

Stihl MS 170 User Manual⁚ A Comprehensive Guide

This comprehensive guide provides a detailed overview of the Stihl MS 170 chainsaw, covering safety precautions, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting․ It is essential to carefully read and understand this manual before using the saw․ The manual is available in English and other languages, ensuring a clear understanding of all aspects of the chainsaw․

Introduction

The Stihl MS 170 is a lightweight and powerful chainsaw designed for a variety of tasks, including pruning, limbing, and cutting firewood․ It features a robust 30․1 cm³ engine that delivers ample power for efficient cutting․ The MS 170 is known for its ease of use, making it suitable for both experienced users and those new to chainsaw operation․ This user manual provides comprehensive information on the safe and effective operation of the Stihl MS 170 chainsaw․

The manual covers various aspects of the chainsaw, including safety precautions, starting and stopping the engine, fueling and oiling, chain tension and lubrication, working techniques, cutting attachment, mounting the bar and chain, maintenance and cleaning, troubleshooting, storage and transportation, and disposal․ It is essential to read and understand all sections of this manual to ensure safe and proper operation of the chainsaw․

Safety Precautions

Operating a chainsaw is inherently dangerous, and it is crucial to prioritize safety at all times․ This section outlines essential safety precautions to minimize the risk of injury while using the Stihl MS 170 chainsaw․ Always wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE), including safety glasses, hearing protection, gloves, and sturdy work boots․

Never operate the chainsaw without proper training and understanding of its functions and safety features․ Before starting the chainsaw, carefully inspect the equipment for any damage or wear, and ensure all guards and protective devices are in place and functioning correctly․ Never operate the chainsaw in hazardous environments, such as near flammable materials, electrical wires, or water․ Maintain a safe distance from bystanders and ensure no one is in the area of operation․

Always be aware of the chainsaw’s kickback potential and take precautions to minimize the risk․ Use a sharp chain and proper cutting techniques to reduce the likelihood of kickback․ Always keep a firm grip on the chainsaw and avoid using it above shoulder height․

Reactive Forces

The Stihl MS 170 chainsaw generates significant reactive forces during operation, which can pose risks to the user if not understood and managed properly․ These forces can be caused by factors such as the chain’s rotational speed, the cutting resistance encountered, and the angle of the cut․

One of the most crucial aspects of understanding reactive forces is recognizing the potential for kickback․ Kickback occurs when the saw chain contacts an object or material at a high angle, causing the chainsaw to suddenly jerk back towards the operator․ Kickback can be extremely dangerous, potentially leading to serious injuries․

To mitigate the risks associated with reactive forces, it is essential to use proper cutting techniques, maintain a firm grip on the chainsaw, and avoid making cuts above shoulder height․ Using a sharp chain and a reduced kickback bar can also help reduce the likelihood of kickback․ Understanding and managing reactive forces is vital for safe and efficient operation of the Stihl MS 170 chainsaw․

Starting and Stopping the Engine

Starting and stopping the Stihl MS 170 chainsaw engine safely and efficiently is crucial for both user safety and proper equipment operation․ Before attempting to start the engine, ensure that the chainsaw is in a stable position on a flat surface, and that the chain brake is engaged․

To start the engine, follow these steps⁚

1. Ensure the choke lever is in the “choke” position․
2. Prime the carburetor by pressing the primer bulb several times․
3. Pull the starter cord slowly until you feel resistance, then pull it quickly and decisively․
4. Once the engine starts, gradually move the choke lever to the “run” position to allow the engine to warm up․

To stop the engine, simply move the throttle lever to the “stop” position․ Always ensure the engine has completely stopped before attempting to handle the chainsaw or refuel it․ Proper starting and stopping procedures are essential for safe and reliable operation of the Stihl MS 170․

Fueling and Oil

Proper fueling and oiling are essential for the smooth and efficient operation of the Stihl MS 170 chainsaw․ The chainsaw uses a mixture of gasoline and two-stroke engine oil․ The recommended fuel mixture ratio is 1⁚50, meaning one part oil to 50 parts gasoline․ Always use high-quality, fresh gasoline and Stihl 2-Stroke Engine Oil for optimal performance and engine longevity․

To fuel the chainsaw, follow these steps⁚

1. Ensure the engine is completely stopped and the chainsaw is in a level position․
2. Remove the fuel cap and carefully pour the pre-mixed fuel into the fuel tank, avoiding spillage․
3. Tighten the fuel cap securely․

The Stihl MS 170 also requires regular oiling of the chain․ The chainsaw features an automatic chain lubrication system that delivers oil to the chain bar during operation․ Always use Stihl bar and chain oil for optimal chain lubrication․

To check the oil level, remove the oil cap and inspect the oil level indicator․ Add oil as needed, ensuring the oil level is between the minimum and maximum markings․ Proper fueling and oiling practices are crucial for maintaining the performance and longevity of your Stihl MS 170 chainsaw․

Chain Tension and Lubrication

Maintaining proper chain tension and lubrication is crucial for safe and efficient cutting with your Stihl MS 170 chainsaw․ A correctly tensioned chain ensures smooth cutting and reduces the risk of kickback․ To check and adjust chain tension, follow these steps⁚

1. Ensure the chainsaw is stopped and the bar and chain are cool․
2. Loosen the chain tensioning screw located on the side of the chainsaw․
3. Gently pull the chain upwards, ensuring it is taut but not overly tight․
4. Tighten the chain tensioning screw, ensuring the chain moves freely around the bar․
5. Check the chain tension by gently pulling the chain at different points along the bar․

The Stihl MS 170 features an automatic chain lubrication system, but it is essential to use the correct bar and chain oil to ensure optimal chain lubrication․ The oil is fed to the chain through a channel in the bar․ Always use Stihl bar and chain oil, as it is specifically formulated for high-performance chainsaws and prevents premature wear and tear․ To check the oil level, remove the oil cap and inspect the oil level indicator․ Add oil as needed to ensure the oil level is between the minimum and maximum markings․ Regularly inspect the chain for wear and tear, and replace it when necessary․ Proper chain tension and lubrication ensure a smooth and efficient cutting experience, while also prolonging the life of your chain and bar․

Working Techniques

Operating the Stihl MS 170 chainsaw safely and effectively requires proper working techniques․ Here are some key points to keep in mind⁚

• Maintain a firm grip on the chainsaw handles, ensuring a balanced stance and secure control․
• Avoid reaching or overextending, as this can lead to loss of control and potential injury․
• Cut with the grain of the wood whenever possible, minimizing the risk of kickback and ensuring a clean cut․
• Keep the saw moving during cutting, preventing overheating and ensuring a smooth cut․
• Avoid cutting above shoulder height, as this increases the risk of kickback and makes it difficult to control the saw․
• Use caution when cutting near obstacles, ensuring that the saw does not come into contact with any objects that could cause it to bind or kickback․
• Be aware of your surroundings and ensure that no one is in the path of the cutting chain․

By following these techniques, you can operate the Stihl MS 170 chainsaw safely and efficiently, maximizing productivity and minimizing the risk of accidents․ Always prioritize safety and follow the instructions provided in this manual to ensure a positive and enjoyable cutting experience․

Cutting Attachment

The Stihl MS 170 chainsaw utilizes a cutting attachment consisting of a bar and chain, which are crucial components for its operation․ The bar serves as a guide for the chain, allowing it to move smoothly and efficiently around the workpiece․ The chain itself features sharp teeth designed to cut through wood effectively․

The bar and chain are designed to work together, and it’s important to ensure they are properly matched and maintained․ Using the wrong combination of bar and chain can lead to poor performance, increased wear, and even safety hazards․

The user manual provides detailed information on selecting the correct bar and chain for the Stihl MS 170 chainsaw․ It also outlines the proper procedures for mounting, tensioning, and lubricating these components to ensure optimal performance and safety․

Regular inspection and maintenance are essential to ensure the cutting attachment remains in good working order․ This includes checking for wear, damage, and proper tensioning․

Mounting the Bar and Chain

Mounting the bar and chain on the Stihl MS 170 chainsaw is a crucial step before operating the saw․ This process involves securely attaching the bar to the saw’s body and then threading the chain around the bar, ensuring proper tension and alignment․ The user manual provides clear instructions and illustrations to guide the user through this process, emphasizing the importance of safety and precision․

Before mounting the bar and chain, it’s essential to ensure they are clean and free from debris․ The manual also highlights the need to check the bar and chain for any damage or wear before installation․ Once mounted, the chain tension should be adjusted properly to prevent slack or excessive tightness, which can lead to performance issues and safety risks․

The manual emphasizes the importance of using the correct tools and procedures for mounting the bar and chain․ It also highlights the necessity of checking for proper alignment and tension after mounting․ This ensures the saw operates smoothly and safely, maximizing its performance and longevity․

Maintenance and Cleaning

Regular maintenance and cleaning are essential for keeping your Stihl MS 170 chainsaw in top condition and ensuring its safe and efficient operation․ The user manual outlines a detailed maintenance schedule, including tasks such as checking and adjusting chain tension, cleaning the air filter, and inspecting the spark plug․ These routine maintenance procedures help prevent premature wear and tear, maximize engine performance, and minimize the risk of unexpected breakdowns․

The manual emphasizes the importance of cleaning the chainsaw after each use, particularly the bar and chain․ Removing sawdust, debris, and oil residue ensures smooth operation and reduces the risk of clogging․ The user manual also provides guidance on lubricating the bar and chain, applying the correct type and amount of oil to maintain proper lubrication and prevent excessive wear․

In addition to routine cleaning and lubrication, the user manual also details more complex maintenance tasks that should be performed periodically, such as replacing the air filter, spark plug, and fuel lines․ These procedures are crucial for maintaining the chainsaw’s performance and extending its lifespan․ The manual also provides information on sharpening the chain, using a sharpening angle of 30 degrees for optimal cutting performance․

Troubleshooting

The Stihl MS 170 user manual provides a comprehensive troubleshooting section to help users diagnose and resolve common problems that may arise during operation․ This section covers a wide range of issues, from engine starting difficulties to chain lubrication problems․ For each issue, the manual provides a detailed description of the symptoms, possible causes, and recommended solutions․

For example, if the chainsaw fails to start, the manual suggests checking the fuel supply, spark plug condition, and air filter cleanliness․ If the engine runs poorly or stalls, the manual recommends checking the carburetor settings, fuel mixture, and air filter․ For chain lubrication problems, the manual advises inspecting the oil reservoir level, oil pump operation, and bar groove condition․

The troubleshooting section also includes safety precautions for handling potentially dangerous situations․ For example, it advises users to avoid running the chainsaw without a properly installed chain brake, and to never attempt to repair or adjust the chainsaw while the engine is running․ By following the troubleshooting steps and safety guidelines outlined in the manual, users can effectively diagnose and resolve most common problems and ensure safe and efficient operation of their Stihl MS 170 chainsaw․

Storage and Transportation

The Stihl MS 170 user manual provides detailed instructions for the proper storage and transportation of the chainsaw to ensure its longevity and safety․ When storing the chainsaw, it emphasizes the importance of a clean and dry environment, free from dust, moisture, and corrosive substances․ The manual advises emptying the fuel tank and running the engine until it stops to prevent fuel deterioration and potential damage to the carburetor․

Additionally, the manual suggests removing the spark plug and pouring a small amount of engine oil into the cylinder to prevent rust formation․ The saw should be stored in a secure location, out of reach of children and unauthorized individuals․ The manual also provides specific guidelines for transporting the chainsaw, recommending the use of a sturdy carrying case or protective cover to prevent damage during transit․

Furthermore, it cautions against transporting the chainsaw with fuel in the tank, as this could pose a safety hazard․ The manual emphasizes the importance of following these storage and transportation guidelines to ensure the chainsaw remains in optimal condition and ready for use when needed․

Disposal

The Stihl MS 170 user manual provides clear instructions regarding the responsible disposal of the chainsaw when it reaches the end of its useful life․ The manual strongly emphasizes the importance of adhering to local regulations and environmental guidelines for proper disposal․ It advises against discarding the chainsaw in household waste, as it contains hazardous materials such as fuels and oils․

The manual recommends contacting your local waste management facility or authorized recycling center for guidance on the appropriate disposal procedures․ They can provide information on designated collection points for hazardous waste, ensuring the chainsaw is disposed of safely and environmentally responsibly․

The manual also encourages users to consider options like selling, trading, or donating the chainsaw to individuals or organizations that may still find it useful, extending its lifespan and preventing unnecessary waste․ By following these guidelines, users can ensure the responsible disposal of their Stihl MS 170 chainsaw, minimizing environmental impact and promoting sustainable practices․