Stihl MS 461 R Product Instruction Manual - Page 8

English / USA Before Starting Take off the chain guard (scabbard) and inspect the saw for proper condition and operation. (See the maintenance chart near the end of the instruction manual.) !Warning! Always check your power tool for proper condition and operation before starting, particularly the throttle trigger, throttle trigger interlock, stop switch and cutting tool. The throttle trigger must move freely and always spring back to the idle position. Never attempt to modify the controls or safety devices. !Warning! Never operate your power tool if it is damaged, improperly adjusted or maintained, or not completely or securely assembled. !Warning! Check that the spark plug boot is secure - a loose boot may cause arcing that could ignite combustible fumes and cause a fire. For proper assembly of the bar and chain follow the procedure described in the chapter "Mounting the Bar and Chain" of your instruction manual. STIHL Oilomatic chain, guide bar and sprocket must match each other in gauge and pitch. Before replacing any bar and chain, see the chapter entitled "Specifications" in the instruction manual and the section "Kickback" and the "ANSI B 175.1-2000 chainsaw kickback standard" below. !Warning! Proper tension of the chain is extremely important. In order to avoid improper setting, the tensioning procedure must be followed as described in your manual. Always make sure the hexagonal nut(s) for the sprocket cover is (are) tightened securely after tensioning the chain in order to secure the bar. Never start the saw with the sprocket cover loose. Check chain tension once more after having tightened the nut(s) and thereafter at regular intervals (whenever the saw is shut off). If the chain becomes loose while cutting, shut off the engine and then tighten. Never try to adjust the chain while the engine is running! Keep the handles clean and dry at all times; it is particularly important to keep them free of moisture, pitch, oil, fuel mix, grease or resin in order for you to maintain a firm grip and properly control your power tool. Starting !Warning! To reduce the risk of fire and burn injuries, start the engine at least 10 feet (3 meters) from the fueling spot, outdoors only. Start and operate your saw without assistance. For specific starting instructions, see the appropriate section of the instruction manual. Proper starting methods reduce the risk of injury. !Warning! To reduce the risk of injury from chain contact and/or reactive forces, the chain brake must be engaged when starting the saw. !Warning! Do not drop start. This method is very dangerous because you may lose control of the saw. There are two recommended methods for starting your chainsaw. MS 460, MS 460 R 7