How to Start a Stihl Chainsaw

Before starting your Stihl chainsaw, make sure that the area surrounding you is free from other people and objects. Stihl recommends starting a chainsaw from a sitting position, but it is possible to start one on uneven ground if necessary, using a different technique. The correct procedure for starting your chainsaw will also depend on whether you are using a gas-powered or electric tool. Always read your chainsaw’s manual thoroughly to know how to operate the tool safely.

Method 1

Method 1 of 4:

Preparing to Start a Gas-Powered Chainsaw

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1
Check the fuel cap. If you have a gas-powered chainsaw, it will need to be fueled up before using it. Before starting it, you should make sure that the fuel cap is securely fastened, and that there are no drips or pools of fuel on the outside of the chainsaw.^{[1]XResearch source}
- If you see any fuel on the outer parts of the chainsaw, carefully wipe it away.
- Always start your chainsaw well away from fuel sources.
On a gas-powered Stihl chainsaw, the chain brake is located just in front of the handlebar. All you have to do to activate it is push it forward. This will keep the chain locked as a safety precaution while you are starting the chainsaw, and until you are ready to use the tool.
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Your chainsaw may be equipped with a sheath or cover that goes over the chain and bar. If so, remove it before starting the chainsaw. That way, your tool will be ready to use once you start it.
Typically, only professional-grade Stihl chainsaws have a decompression valve, so if you have a home or consumer-grade model, you will skip this step. If you have a professional saw, simply press the valve down (it will be located on the top of the chainsaw, near the starter rope).
Many Stihl models have a primer valve located on the side of the tool, near the handlebar. If yours has one, simply push it down several times. Don’t worry about the number of times you press the valve.-Several pushes won’t flood the engine, only circulate the fuel.
6
Set the master control to the cold start setting. Press and hold the throttle trigger lockout (located on the side of the chainsaw, above the trigger) with your thumb, then move the master control (on the left of the rear of the chainsaw) down as far as it will go. This is the position you should start the chainsaw in the first time you use it each session.
- If you have recently used the chainsaw, turned it off for a few minutes, and are ready to use it again, set the master control to the warm start setting before beginning. This is located one notch up from the lowest setting.

Method 2

Method 2 of 4:

Starting from a Sitting Position

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1
Set your chainsaw on the ground in a clear, flat area. Stihl recommends starting your chainsaw from a sitting position. Set the tool on level ground, and make sure there is nothing touching or immediately below or in front of the bar and chain.^{[2]XResearch source}
- Never “drop” start or “throw” start your chainsaw. These are dangerous positions that do not allow you to control your tool.
Slip the toe of your right foot into the rear handle opening. At the same time, press down on front handle with your left hand, wrapping your thumb and fingers around it and locking your elbow. This will secure the chainsaw as you start it.^{[3]XResearch source}
3
Pull the starter rope. Grip the handle of the starter rope with your right hand. Slowly pull vertically until you feel some resistance. Then, pull the starter rope quickly several times until the chainsaw fires.
- Only grasp the starter rope handle. Never wrap the rope around your hand or grasp the rope itself.
4
Set the chainsaw to open the “choke”. The chainsaw will fire, but then immediately die again. When this happens, move the master control up one position to the half throttle (warm start) setting.
- If you recently used your chainsaw, the master control should already be at the warm start setting.
Using the same technique as before, grasp the starter rope handle again and pull vertically. You will hear the engine of your chainsaw fire again.
Once the chainsaw has started and stays running, move the master control up one notch. Just a slight touch of your finger should do it. This will keep the chainsaw running.
Check your surroundings one more time to make sure there are no people or objects in your way. Slowly get up, holding the chainsaw by the handlebar. Then release the chain brake by pulling it back toward you. Your chainsaw is now ready to use.

Method 3

Method 3 of 4:

Starting on Uneven Ground

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1
Make sure you have secure footing. If you must start your chainsaw on uneven ground, Stihl recommends an alternate technique for safety reasons. First of all, use your foot to clear any debris away from your site, and make a small impression in the ground you can use to support your foot.
- Do not use the chainsaw on any gravel or masonry. If the blade hits the rocks, it could send them flying.^{[4]XExpert SourceAbraham Schwartz
  HandymanExpert Interview. 28 August 2020.}
Brace the handle against your body, just above the knee. This will give you greater control over the chainsaw.
Keep your left hand on the chainsaw’s handlebar, and lock your elbow. Use your right hand to start the chainsaw, then follow the same directions for pulling the starter rope and starting your tool as you would when beginning from a sitting position.

Method 4

Method 4 of 4:

Turning On an Electric Chainsaw

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1
Connect to a power supply. The power supply you connect your chainsaw to must be of the same voltage. Check your chainsaw’s manual for information if you are not sure about your model’s specifications.^{[5]XResearch source}
- Use an extension cord if necessary.
You can start an electric chainsaw from a seated or standing position as necessary. As you would for a gas-powered chainsaw, check and make sure that the surrounding area is free from people and obstructions. Your body should feel balanced before you begin.^{[6]XResearch source}
The hand guard will be located just in front of the handlebar. Pull it toward you (and the back of the chainsaw) until it clicks. This is a safety feature designed to protect you as you operate the chainsaw, which will not start until the guard is engaged.^{[7]XResearch source}
This is located just above the trigger, on the side of the handle. Use your thumb to depress the switch, and make sure to keep holding it down fully.^{[8]XResearch source}
Use just your index finger to pull the trigger up, but grasp it firmly. Keep holding the lockout. Your chainsaw is now ready to use.^{[9]XResearch source}

Expert Q&A

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What are some safety tips for using a chainsaw?
Abraham Schwartz
Handyman
Abraham Schwartz is a handyman and the owner of Fixin’ To Do, a home improvement service in Austin, Texas. Abraham specializes in both small to medium residential and commercial sized jobs, ranging from TV mounting to furniture assembly to home automation setup. Prior to starting Fixin’ To Do, Abraham worked for over 10 years as a handyman for third party services and had a lifetime of learning how to improve houses. He holds both his TSBPE Plumbing Examiners and Electrical Apprentice (TX) Licenses. In 2018 and 2019, Fixin’ To do was rated as a Top Pro by Thumbtack.
Abraham Schwartz
Handyman
Expert Answer
Always wear protective gear and carefully follow the manufacturer's instructions. Also, be sure you're working in an open environment. Make sure there are no children and pets around, and don't work on gravel or masonry, because if the blade nicks any stones, it could send them flying.
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Warnings

Always read your manual. This will contain critical safety information and operating instructions.^{[10]XExpert SourceAbraham Schwartz
HandymanExpert Interview. 28 August 2020.}
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Never “drop” start or “throw” start your chainsaw. These are dangerous positions that do not allow you to control your tool.
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Always wear protective gear when you're using a chainsaw.^{[11]XExpert SourceAbraham Schwartz
HandymanExpert Interview. 28 August 2020.} Use safety glasses and gloves at a minimum, but hearing protection and a face mask are also recommended.
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Always examine your surroundings before using your chainsaw. Make sure there are no people or objects in your way. If someone approaches you while you are using the chainsaw, immediately engage the chain brake.
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