
Starting a Stihl electric chainsaw requires careful preparation and adherence to safety guidelines. Before starting, it is crucial to ensure that you are wearing the appropriate protective gear and that your work area is free of hazards, with a clear escape route in case of emergencies. The specific start-up process may vary depending on the model, so it is essential to refer to the instruction manual for your particular Stihl chainsaw. However, common steps include engaging the chain brake, removing the scabbard or bar cover, pressing the decompression valve (if equipped), priming the engine by pressing the primer bulb or valve multiple times, and setting the master control lever to the cold start position. With the chainsaw placed on level ground, you can then pull the starter cord with a steady grip until the engine starts.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Safety | Ensure you are wearing the right gear and that your work area is clear of people or objects. Keep others, especially children and pets, away from your working area. |
| Work area | Check the ground of your working area for uneven, wet, snowy, icy, or sloped surfaces. |
| Chainsaw placement | Place the chainsaw on a flat surface. |
| Chainsaw state | Check the chainsaw has enough fuel and that the chain is properly tensioned. |
| Chain brake | Engage the chain brake by pushing the chain brake handle forward. |
| Scabbard | Remove the scabbard/sheath/cover. |
| Decompression valve | If your chainsaw has a decompression valve, press it. |
| Manual fuel pump | If your chainsaw has a manual fuel pump, press the primer bulb several times. |
| Master Control Lever | Set the Master Control Lever to Choke/Cold start. |
| Position | Take a sitting or standing position. |
| Grip | Put your left hand on the front handle, your right hand on the starter cord, and your right foot on the rear handle. |
| Starter cord | Pull the starter cord slowly until you feel resistance, then pull it several times at a quick pace until the chainsaw fires up. |
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What You'll Learn

Read the safety instructions and manual
Reading the safety instructions and manual is a crucial step in learning how to start your Stihl electric chainsaw. Stihl provides online electronic versions of all product safety and instruction manuals for easy reference. These manuals are tailored to the specific model you own, so you can refer to them for detailed information on how to operate your chainsaw safely.
The manuals will guide you through the correct procedures for starting your chainsaw, which may vary depending on the model and its features. For example, some Stihl chainsaws have a decompression valve, a manual fuel pump, or a Master Control Lever™. By consulting the manual, you can familiarise yourself with these features and understand how to use them effectively.
Safety is a top priority when operating a chainsaw. The manuals will outline important precautions to ensure your safety and that of those around you. This includes information on working in a well-ventilated area to avoid inhaling hazardous gases, maintaining a clear workspace free from obstacles and bystanders, and properly engaging safety features like the chain brake.
Additionally, the manuals will provide specific instructions for your model, such as the correct way to position the chainsaw on the ground, how to stabilise it, and the proper technique for pulling the starter cord. By following these detailed instructions, you can ensure a smooth and safe start-up process for your Stihl electric chainsaw.
Remember, improper use of power tools like chainsaws can lead to serious or even fatal injuries. Therefore, it is essential to read, understand, and carefully follow the operating and safety instructions provided in your Stihl electric chainsaw's manual.
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Check the fuel cap and fuel type
Before starting your Stihl chainsaw, it is important to ensure that you are operating in a safe environment. Chainsaw engines can emit odorless, invisible gases, so it is recommended to start the machine in a well-ventilated area or outdoors. Keep others, especially children and pets, away from your working area.
Now, to address your specific query about the fuel cap and fuel type:
Firstly, always check that your Stihl chainsaw is fuelled up and ready to go. If you have a gas-powered model, ensure that the fuel cap is securely fastened before starting the machine. It is important to verify that there are no signs of fuel leakage, such as drips or pools of fuel on the outside of the chainsaw. In the event that you notice any fuel on the outer parts, carefully wipe it away. Additionally, always start your chainsaw away from any fuel sources as a safety precaution.
If your Stihl chainsaw has a manual fuel pump, you can make startup easier by pressing the primer bulb multiple times. This handy feature also reduces the number of pulls needed on the starter cord.
For a smooth and efficient start, it is recommended to set the Master Control Lever™ to the Choke/Cold Start position. To do this, first actuate the throttle trigger lockout and the throttle trigger, and then push the Master Control Lever™ to its lowest position.
By following these steps and paying close attention to fuel-related considerations, you can ensure that your Stihl electric chainsaw is properly fuelled and ready for safe operation.
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Engage the chain brake
When starting a Stihl chainsaw, it is important to engage the chain brake before turning on the machine. This is a vital safety precaution that ensures the chain doesn't move while the chainsaw is being started. To engage the chain brake, push the chain brake handle forward. The chain brake is typically located just in front of the handlebar on a gas-powered Stihl chainsaw.
By activating the chain brake, you are essentially locking the chain in place until you are ready to use the tool. This is a critical step as it helps prevent accidental injuries or mishaps. Once the chainsaw is turned on and you are ready to begin cutting, you can release the chain brake by pulling it towards the handle. This action disengages the brake, allowing the chain to move freely.
It is worth noting that Stihl recommends starting their chainsaws from a sitting position. This is advised for both safety and stability reasons. However, it is possible to start a Stihl chainsaw while standing if necessary, but extra caution should be exercised. Additionally, always ensure that you are properly suited up with the right protective gear before engaging the chain brake and starting the chainsaw.
Before engaging the chain brake and starting the chainsaw, it is crucial to inspect your work area carefully. Ensure that there are no obstacles or bystanders within a safe radius. Maintaining a clear escape route and having someone nearby in case of an emergency is also essential. By following these safety precautions and properly engaging the chain brake, you can help ensure a safe and efficient chainsaw operation.
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Set the master control lever
Setting the master control lever is a crucial step in starting your Stihl chainsaw. The master control lever should be set to the choke/cold start setting. To do this, first, actuate the throttle trigger lockout and the throttle trigger. Then, with your thumb, hold down the throttle trigger and push the Master Control Lever™ to the lowest position.
It is important to note that attempting to start the engine with the choke closed can flood the Stihl chainsaw, which is a common reason for the chainsaw not starting. Therefore, after setting the master control lever to the choke/cold start setting, you will need to move the choke to the "full choke" position to enrich the fuel mixture. This is done by moving the choke lever to the "full choke" position.
Once the engine fires up, the chainsaw will die almost immediately. At this point, you will need to adjust the master controller by moving it up one click to the warm start setting. This helps the chainsaw warm up and is the best way to start a choke on a Stihl chainsaw.
Finally, after pulling the starter rope again and getting the engine to fire up, move the master controller up once more to the idle setting. This will ensure that the chainsaw engine runs continuously.
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Stabilise the chainsaw
Stihl recommends that you start your chainsaw in a sitting position. However, it is possible to start it on uneven ground if necessary, using a different technique. Place the chainsaw on a flat surface and engage the chain brake. With the chainsaw still on the ground, put your left hand on the front handle, right hand on the starter cord and your right foot on the rear handle. This will help you to stabilise the chainsaw.
Your STIHL chainsaw needs to be held steady while starting. You can do this by locking your elbows. This will give you a better grip. Pull the starter cord slowly until you feel some resistance, then pull it several times at a quick pace until the chainsaw fires up. Once the chainsaw fires up, it will die almost immediately. Move the master controller just one click up to the warm start setting. This will help the chainsaw to warm up.
Use the same technique as above to pull the starter cord again, and the engine will fire up again. This time, move the master controller up again to the idle setting. This will keep the chainsaw engine running continuously. Before you raise your chainsaw and start working, remember to check your surroundings to ensure there is no person or object in your way.
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Frequently asked questions
Before starting your Stihl chainsaw, ensure that you are wearing the correct safety gear and that your work area is clear of people or objects that may cause accidents. Also, check that the ground is level and free of debris, and keep others, especially children and pets, away from your work area.
The steps to start your Stihl chainsaw may vary depending on the model, so it is important to refer to your instruction manual. However, some general steps include:
- Engaging the chain brake by pushing the brake forward.
- Removing the guide bar cover from the chainsaw.
- Pressing the decompression valve, if your model has one.
- Pressing the primer bulb multiple times, if your model has one.
- Setting the master control lever to the cold start position.
- Placing the chainsaw on level ground and stabilising it with your hands and foot.
- Pulling the starter cord slowly and then quickly until the engine starts.
Once the chainsaw has started, you should:
- Move the master controller to the warm start setting.
- Pull the starter cord again to fire up the engine.
- Move the master controller to the idle setting to keep the engine running.
- Check your surroundings to ensure there are no people or objects in your way.
- Release the chain brake by pulling it towards you.










































