Chain Saw, 18" 2-Cycle (Stihl MS250 3519)
Operating Information
How to Start a Stihl Chain Saw Video
NOTE: Despite its name, chain saws are not designed to cut anything other than wood. Chain saws should not be used to cut metal or concrete. Chain saws with specially equipped blades to cut concrete and metal do exist. If you need to cut materials other than trees, check with your rental dealer for the proper tool.
Starting and Stopping the Saw
 WARNING! The saw chain will rotate when the saw is started! The saw chain can cause serious injury! Clear a safe work area before starting this saw.
IMPORTANT
The engine is controlled by a two-position "ON-OFF" switch located near the throttle lever on the rear handle.
Control Positions (cold engine): - Move the ignition switch up to the "ON" position.
- Choke the engine by pulling the choke control to its fully extended position (choke is closed.)
- Set the throttle to "fast idle":
- First, depress the throttle lock lever (#1).
- Squeeze the throttle trigger (#2).
- Slide the throttle lock slide switch (#3) toward the locl lever and release the throttle lever.
Control Positions (warm engine):- Move the ignition switch to the "ON" position.
- Choke control should be all the way in (choke is open).
- Set the throttle to "fast idle" (as illustrated above).
IMPORTANT
The throttle lever cannot be moved without depressing the lock lever.- Place the saw on firm ground.
- Secure the saw by placing your right foot inside the rear handle and your left hand firmly on the front handle as shown.
- Grip the starter handle with your right hand. Pull the starter cord slowly until you feel the starting mechanism engage.
- Start the saw by pulling the starter cord upward rapidly.
CAUTION
The recoil starter can be damaged by abuse- Never pull the starter cord to its full length.
- Always engage the starter before cranking the engine.
- Always rewind the starter cord slowly.
When the engine fires:- Push the choke control "in" to its original position (choke is open.)
- If the engine does not continue to run, pull the recoil again.
- As the engine starts, clear excess fuel from the combustion area by revving the engine several times.
WARNING The saw chain will turn as the engine accelerates!
- Operating the throttle will automatically disengage the "fast-idle"setting.
If the engine does not start:
Repeat the appropriate starting procedures for "hot" or "cold" engine.
Maintain Proper Chain Tension
To ensure good cutting action and a long chain life, check chain tension frequently. If the chain is too loose, it will come off; if too tight, the chain will bind and overheat. All chains stretch with use. Most of the stretch occurs during the first half hour of operation.
Tip: A good way to ensure proper tension for the chain is to place a dime between the chain and the bar. Tighten the chain until it is snug against the dime. Remove the dime and your chain saw is ready to cut at the proper tension.
Refueling
Chain saws engines are 2-stroke and require a mixture of gasoline and oil to run properly. In most cases, a fuel/oil mixture of 50:1 provides the best ratio. Check with your rental dealer
Stopping:
Turn switch to "OFF" after idling at low speed for 1-to-2 minutes.
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