Calm chainsaws: features, rating of popular models

Chainsaws from the world-famous German brand Stihl are popular, first of all, due to their high reliability. Each of the models of this brand is equipped with durable, long-lasting components that can withstand high loads and work under extreme temperatures. When creating its equipment, Stihl uses a large number of its own innovative developments. All of them help simplify the maintenance of chainsaws and make their operation more comfortable.

Shtil chainsaw device

Each model of the Stihl brand is based on a 1-cylinder, 2-stroke gasoline engine running on a fuel mixture of gasoline, grade no lower than AI-92, and motor oil. A proprietary carburetor equipped with a Stihl compensator and three jets for the ability to independently adjust the unit is responsible for enriching the fuel with air and its further supply to the internal combustion engine cylinder in the chainsaw device of the German company. An anti-vibration system is responsible for damping vibrations transmitted from the crankshaft to the handles of garden tools.

For continuous connection of the motor with the saw set, each Shtil petrol chain saw is equipped with a durable clutch system, the drive sprocket and other parts of which are designed for operation in the most difficult weather conditions. The ignition of each model is electronic, consisting of a coil and a spark plug.

All internal mechanisms and spare parts of Stihl garden tools are housed in a durable multi-layer plastic case. It consists of individual plates that can be removed to repair the faulty unit. The controls and switches necessary for control are located at the rear of the case. In its middle part there is only a lever for turning on and off the inertial brake. For more convenient operation of garden tools, the manufacturer equipped them with two metal handles coated with anti-slip rubberized material.

Brand information

The German company STIHL traces its history back to 1926. It was the company that became the first in Europe to produce saws powered by a gasoline engine. The first prototype weighed about 50 kg and had a power of only 6 hp. s and was not intended for solo work.

In 1930, the company's engineers modernized the saw chain, equipping it with cutting teeth and scrapers. At the same time, the company received a patent for its invention.

The use of the latest technologies of the time and a huge number of innovative developments allowed STIHL to produce convenient and reliable tools. Today, gasoline equipment of this brand is considered the best-selling.

Fuel for Stihl chainsaws - features of choice

In order for the Shtil brand chainsaw used on the farm to last as long as possible, you need to choose the right fuel. The serviceability of the engine's CPG, as well as the condition of the fuel filter and carburetor, depends on this.

In the operating instructions for each of its models, the German manufacturer Stihl advises filling the tank with gasoline with a minimum octane number of 92. But despite this, many novice gardeners use AI-95 fuel for this. This should not be done, since this fuel contains a large number of additives that not only do not improve the condition of the fuel, but also worsen it.

More balanced in its composition, 92 gasoline for Stihl chainsaws does not contain unnecessary components, so during combustion it forms much less tar and soot on the walls of the muffler and pipes. This extends the service life of garden tools and increases the frequency of replacement of a number of its important parts.

Which company is better - Stihl, Husqvarna or Makita?

Saws from these brands, according to statistics, are among the most popular and affordable. However, each company has its own advantages and disadvantages compared to each other. Let's look at this issue in a little more detail.

The Husqvarna brand has Swedish roots and annually launches both the latest models and updated units into the market. Chainsaws are classified according to their purpose - there are both lines of household units and powerful professional models. Even the simplest saws are of high quality and reasonable prices. However, users complain about regular leaks of oil and gasoline through plugs and leaky hoses, unpredictability of start-up and poor quality of chains.

The Japanese company Makita produces on the market not only chainsaws, but also other equipment - drills, grinders, grinders, etc., but saws are a priority for them. It maintains a stable position in the market, has a high quality standard, and regularly updates its range. There are household, farm, semi-professional and professional lines. They are distinguished by modern production technologies and high build quality. However, the cost of both the models themselves and their components is very high.

The Stihl company stands for German quality, market availability and reasonable cost. It produces many models for various purposes, including specialized chainsaws for working with stone, concrete, and hard wood. The cost of original products is significantly higher compared to domestic analogues, but the company’s products are highly reliable and resistant to cold starts. Has a wide range of farm chainsaws. A significant drawback (which, however, does not depend on the manufacturer itself) is the presence of a large number of fakes on the market, so you should buy the unit either from a dealer or directly from the manufacturer.

Shtil chainsaw oil

Another important factor is the motor oil for the gasoline saw. Its quality and composition play one of the main roles during engine operation, so the choice of lubricant must be taken with special responsibility.

To dilute gasoline for a Stihl chainsaw, you need to choose oils with the following properties:

1. the presence of anti-corrosion, lubricating and anti-wear qualities - for this, the motor oil must contain special additives, which are indicated by the manufacturer of the lubricant on its container;
2. ability to quickly dissolve in gasoline and purify fuel from harmful impurities;
3. the formation of a minimal amount of resin during combustion - high-quality lubricant burns almost completely, leaving no traces of ash and soot. When burned, poor quality oil, on the contrary, emits clouds of dark smoke, which contains large amounts of substances harmful to the environment.

In order not to make a mistake when choosing, it is best to give preference to branded motor oils of the Stihl brand. They are made on a semi-synthetic or synthetic base and contain those additives that are needed to protect the engine and extend its service life.

Concrete saws

This kind of tool is designed for sawing brick walls using the through principle, as well as sawing natural stones and cast iron products. This tool is equipped with a diamond-coated chain and a water supply system, which ensures lubrication of the cutting apparatus and its cooling.

Its power indicators are 4.3 kW. A long operating period is facilitated by the presence of a special air cleaner for the engine. You can’t do without such a tool when dismantling, re-equipping and reconstructing residential and industrial premises.

In all of the above categories, there are quite a few varieties of the model range, differing both in technical characteristics and in their cost.

How to start a Shtil chainsaw - the correct procedure

To ensure that your Stihl chainsaw lasts as long as possible, you need to start it correctly. The level of load that affects the motor and other mechanisms of the tool when they are directly turned on depends on this.

To start a chain saw with a cold engine, you need to adhere to the following algorithm:

1. First of all, the operator must engage the chain brake by pushing its lever forward;
2. Next, you need to press the decompression valve several times - this will fill the engine cylinder with fuel and make it easier to start the internal combustion engine;
3. After this, you will need to press the fuel pump;
4. The operator must then move the throttle position lever to its lowest position;
5. Then you need to quickly pull the starter rope several times until the engine starts and stalls;
6. After this, the throttle position adjustment lever must be quickly moved up one position;
7. Next, you will need to quickly pull the starter cable towards you again. As a result, the chainsaw engine should start;
8. In the next step, the operator must fully press the throttle lever and hold it in this position. At the same time, you need to move the throttle position lever directly to the uppermost position with your second finger.

At the end, you need to slowly raise the chainsaw and turn off the inertia brake by pulling its lever towards you. As soon as the operator hears a characteristic short-term click, you can begin operating the chainsaw.

Running in the Shtil chainsaw

A new Stihl chainsaw needs proper running-in. During this time, the parts of the motor and other moving parts of the garden tool will be filled with lubricant and will have time to get used to each other.

You need to break in a Stihl chainsaw in this order:

1. First, the operator will need to prepare the fuel mixture and pour it into the appropriate tank. A separate reservoir for chain lubrication must be filled with fresh oil;
2. After this, with the inertial brake turned off, you need to start the standard engine of the Stihl chainsaw and let it idle for 15–20 minutes. In this case, the operator must perform gas control every 30–40 seconds. While pressing the gas trigger, you need to place a sheet of paper under the guide bar. If drops of oil appear on it when the chain moves, it means that the lubrication system of the bar and chain is working properly;
3. Next, you can move on to sawing small wood. For this purpose, twigs and branches no more than 1 cm thick are suitable;
4. After half an hour, the thickness of the wood needs to be increased and proceed to sawing larger branches;
5. As soon as the fuel in the saw tank runs out, you will need to fill in a fresh mixture and start sawing large logs.

The German manufacturer advises running in chainsaws not only after purchase, but also after each long period of inactivity, for example, after winter. This procedure will help reduce the load on the main components of garden tools and prevent their premature failure.

Adjusting the Shtil chainsaw carburetor

It is necessary to adjust the carburetor of a chain saw when the engine is unstable, as well as a sharp increase in the volume of fuel consumed and exhaust gases emitted.

Setting up the Shtil chainsaw carburetor is performed in the following sequence:

1. First, on a chainsaw with the engine turned off, you need to turn clockwise until it stops those 2 screws that are marked with the letters H and L. After this, both of these screws need to be slowly turned one by one one full turn in the opposite direction;
2. Next, you need to quickly start the Stihl chainsaw and warm it up. As soon as the body of the tool becomes warm, you need to press the gas lever and, by turning screw H, achieve the motor speed, which will be 14,000 rpm. In this case, it is prohibited to hold down the gas lever for more than 10 seconds;
3. After this, you will need to start turning the LA bolt one by one until the chain stops rotating along the bar. Then the LA bolt must be turned a quarter turn in the opposite direction.

At the end, you need to turn off the engine of the Stihl chainsaw and start it again. If the engine is unstable at low speeds, then you need to slowly turn screw L counterclockwise. Then you need to turn the LA bolt to the position at which the engine idle speed will be 2800 rpm.

Scope of application

The STIHL MS 362 chainsaw meets all the requirements for medium-power professional tools. Created specifically for performing various tasks in forestry, it successfully copes with felling trees, pruning branches, and logging. In all areas where sawing of wood is required, Shtil 362 is successfully used in individual households.

Forest felling

Cutting firewood for the winter, felling obstructive or old trees in the garden or country house, cutting branches when forming the crown of a tree - this saw can do everything. It can also be used in construction. Trimming of protruding wooden elements is carried out instantly. True, a caveat must be made here - it is not rational to use this saw in construction for cutting small items. For these purposes, there are chainsaws of a lower class. But if it is not possible to purchase a second saw specifically for construction, then Shtil 362 will successfully cope with all such problems.

The saw is popular with housing and communal services workers, especially when beautifying parks and squares. It also has worthy applications in other repair and restoration work.

Thanks to its positive qualities, the Shtil 362 chainsaw has found wide application in all spheres of the national economy, including individual ones.

Shtil chainsaw malfunctions - causes and solutions

Most often, Stihl gasoline saws break down due to improper daily use, poor fuel quality or improper fuel mixture proportions, as well as mechanical damage. You can fix some problems with garden tools yourself. To do this, you need to find the worn part and replace it.

What to do if the Shtil chainsaw does not start?

The main causes of this popular malfunction are clogged built-in fuel filter and poor condition of the spark plug. The first thing the saw owner must do is inspect the filter element. If a large amount of debris has accumulated in it or a hole has formed in the filter mesh, then it will need to be replaced.

The second reason for the malfunction is carbon deposits formed on the spark plug. In this case, the part must be removed and cleaned of dried resin, after heating the candle with a lighter. After this you need to blow out the cylinder. To do this, with the spark plug removed, you need to rarely pull the starter cable towards you several times. At the end, you need to screw the spark plug into its regular place and try to start the chainsaw.

There is no spark on the Shtil chainsaw - repair procedure

A standard spark plug is responsible for the formation of a spark in every Stihl chainsaw. If it malfunctions or breaks, the garden tool you are using will not start. To solve the problem, you need to clean the part from ash and carbon deposits.

If after cleaning the spark plug it still cannot produce a spark, the part will need to be replaced.

Why does the chain on a Shtil chainsaw break?

The main cause of this common problem is that the tension on the saw element is too high. As a result, the chain cannot withstand the load and breaks. In this case, re-tensioning the headset will help solve the problem. A properly installed and adjusted chain should have about 5-7mm of slack when pressed with your index finger.

The second reason for the malfunction is insufficient oil. If the chain is not lubricated, then over time it becomes stiffer and breaks. In this case, you will need to carefully inspect the oil pump and, if necessary, replace it.

Stihl chainsaw stalls when you press the gas

The cause of this malfunction is a malfunction of the carburetor or a clogged air filter. First of all, you need to inspect the filter element. If necessary, it will need to be washed in clean gasoline and dried completely.

If this does not solve the problem, then you need to adjust the standard carburetor of the chainsaw. At the same time, the adjustment should be performed only on a saw with a fully functional engine, as well as a clean air and fuel filter.

Popularity rating

This rating of Shtil chainsaws is based on reviews from users who actually made a purchase and used the tool for some time. Technical characteristics, level of service in Russia, availability of the model and its popularity were also taken into account. You must understand that the information is current at the time of writing the article. The company is constantly improving its products and offering new devices. Thus, tomorrow it can offer something new that will be significantly better than all previous chainsaws.

MS 170

This is a compact household model that is very popular among users. It has a low price and quite wide functionality. It is recommended to use it to solve current issues at the dacha or in an individual home.

Here are the main advantages of this tool:

• Power 1,300 W.
• Fuel tank 0.25 liters.
• Tire length 40 cm.
• Weight only 4 kg.
• Ease of use.
• Good balancing.

However, there are several disadvantages to this tool:

• Over time, the chain stretches greatly and becomes unusable.
• The key bracket is not included in the basic configuration.
• Quite strong vibration.

Since this is a household model, you have to use it for no more than 15 minutes without a break, so strong vibration is not considered a critical drawback.

MS 180

This chainsaw is often purchased by owners of individual houses, because it allows them to solve most of the current problems associated with the need to cut something down. Ease of operation, ergonomic design and German reliability make the unit quite competitive in the market.

Here are the characteristics of this tool:

• Power 1,500 W.
• The fuel tank capacity is 0.25 liters.
• Tire length 40 cm.
• Weight almost 4 kg.

The advantages include:

• The model is resistant to external factors.
• Easy Start system.
• Low vibration.
• Low noise level.
• Easy to use.

Users note that this chainsaw does not have a prime and has rather high fuel consumption. They also point out that the switch is flimsy and breaks easily. Another problem is the rapid clogging of filters.

MS 181 C-BE

This model has an excellent anti-vibration system. It is reliable and suitable for most tasks. Experts classify her as semi-professional. Power 1,500 W. The fuel capacity is 0.28 liters. The tire is 40 cm, and the entire product weighs just over 4 kg, so it is suitable for beginners.

Here are the main advantages of this chainsaw:

• High performance.
• Work at temperatures down to -25 degrees.

• Quick start system.
• Maneuverability and ease of operation.

Among the disadvantages, it can be noted that this saw cannot be used for working with thick logs.

MS 271

One of the most economical models, as it has very low fuel consumption. It is included in the middle price segment and is classified as semi-professional. It has a power of 2,600 W, a fuel tank of 0.5 liters, and a tire length of 50 cm. The device weighs just over 5 kg.

Here are the advantages of the STIHL MS 271:

• An excellent air filter reduces the emission of harmful impurities into the atmosphere by almost 70%.
• Vibration absorption system.
• Convenient access to the fuel tank.

• High efficiency of the tool.
• The automatic chain brake ensures a high level of safety.
• Low level of gas emissions into the atmosphere.

If you study user reviews, you should pay attention to the fact that the piston quickly fails. The chainsaw is also quite noisy.

MS 310

This is a universal chainsaw that can be used for domestic purposes and in the professional field. It has a large power reserve (3,240 W). The tire length is 45 cm, the weight is almost 6 kg, and the fuel tank is designed for 0.7 liters, so you can work for quite a long time without refueling.

The main advantages of this model include the following:

• Excellent endurance and performance.
• Easy to use.
• Ergonomic design.

• There are summer and winter operating modes.
• Reasonable price.

Studying user reviews, we can conclude that this tool has no objective shortcomings.

MS 461

This is a powerful professional device that has been used in Russia for a long time. Many people prefer it as it is quite reliable. This chainsaw can be used to cut large logs and hardwoods. The power is 4,400 W, and the tank holds 0.8 liters of fuel. The tire is 45 cm long. The device weighs 6.5 kg.

Here are the main advantages:

• Reduced fuel consumption
• Low noise level.
• Ignition system using microprocessor.
• Convenient location of the air filter.

• Quick engine start.
• Good balancing.
• Advanced security system.

Among the shortcomings, users only note that it is necessary to frequently clean the air filter. There are also quite a few fakes of this particular model on the market, so you should only buy it in partner stores that are official distributors. In this case, it will be a little more expensive, but the instrument will definitely be original.