To start a Stihl chainsaw:
- Safety first: Put on protective gear and ensure the chain brake is engaged.
- For a cold start, move the choke lever to the full choke position.
- Press the primer bulb 2–3 times if your model has one.
- Secure the chainsaw on the ground with your left hand on the front handle and your right foot in the rear handle.
- Pull the starter cord firmly 3–4 times until you hear the engine "fire" or try to start.
- Move the choke to the half-choke position and pull the starter cord again until the engine starts.
- Once the engine is running, the first press of the throttle will move the choke to the run position, and the chainsaw will idle.
- Disengage the chain brake, and gently rev the throttle to warm up the chainsaw before cutting.
For a warm start, you can usually start directly in the half-choke position without using the full choke. Always read the specific manual for your model as steps may slightly vary. Never pull the starter rope more than 3-4 times on full choke to avoid flooding the engine.