How to fix Stihl MS 261 engine that does not start?
If your Stihl chainsaw engine doesn't start, it could be due to a few reasons. Ensure there is sufficient fuel in the fuel tank by refueling it. Another common cause is a flooded engine. If the engine is flooded, clear the combustion chamber. Also, the carburetor might be iced up. If this is the case, allow the engine to warm up gradually to a temperature of about 50 °F (10 °C).
What to do if the Stihl MS 261 chain does not rotate when throttle is opened?
If the chain on your Stihl chainsaw doesn't rotate when you open the throttle, it might be due to a few reasons. First, check if the chain brake is engaged and disengage it. Another potential cause is that the chain is tensioned too tightly; in this case, properly tension the chain. Lastly, the guide bar sprocket could be blocked. If so, spray the guide bar sprocket with resin remover.
Why does wood smoke or smell burnt during sawing with Stihl MS 261?
If, during sawing, the wood smokes or smells burnt when using your Stihl chainsaw, several factors could be at play. The chain might be dull or improperly sharpened, so properly sharpen the chain. The working technique may be improper, or the saw is being misused, so obtain instruction on proper working technique. Also, there might be insufficient bar and chain oil; in this case, have the chain lubrication mechanism checked by an authorized STIHL servicing dealer.
General| Motor type | 2-stroke motor |
|---|---|
| Chain gauge | 1.6 mm |
| Chain pitch | 3/8 \ |
| Blade length | 400 mm |
| Automatic oiling | Yes |
| Oil tank capacity | 0.27 L |
| Fuel tank capacity | 0.5 L |
| Engine displacement | 50.2 cm³ |
| Engine power | 3.8 hp |
| Power source | Gasoline |
Weight and Dimensions| Weight | 5200 g |
|---|
Details repair and servicing procedures specific to this power tool.
General safety regulations, fuel handling, protective measures, and warnings for operation.
Technical specifications for the engine, including displacement, bore, stroke, and power.
Specifications for the fuel system, including leakage test parameters and fuel type.
Specifications for the ignition system, including air gap and spark plug details.
Specifications for chain lubrication, including pump type and oil delivery rates.
Table of fasteners, thread sizes, component applications, and specified torque values.
Troubleshooting chart for clutch issues: condition, cause, and remedy.
Troubleshooting for chain drive, brake, and tensioner issues.
Troubleshooting for chain lubrication system issues, including no oil or low oil delivery.
Troubleshooting for rewind starter issues like rope broken, no rewind, or difficulty pulling.
Troubleshooting for engine running issues like rough running, misfires, or temporary power loss.
Troubleshooting for carburetor issues like flooding, stalling, poor acceleration, or power loss.
Troubleshooting for engine starting, power delivery, erratic running, and overheating issues.
Inspection and replacement of the clutch drum for signs of wear.
Procedure for checking the chain brake's efficiency and braking time.
Procedure for removing and installing the brake band.
Procedure for removing and installing the brake lever and its related components.
Procedure for removing and installing the brake lever on specific models.
Procedure for checking and adjusting the brake cable for proper function.
Procedure for disassembling, installing, and adjusting the brake cable and retainer.
Procedure for removing and installing the cam lever, which defines hand guard lock position.
Procedure for removing and installing anchor and pivot pins that secure springs.
Procedure for removing and installing the chain tensioner and its components.
Procedure for installing the quick chain tensioner into the sprocket cover.
Procedure for removing and installing bar mounting studs using a stud puller.
Procedure for removing and installing collar nuts for the sprocket cover.
Procedure for removing and installing the muffler, including gasket replacement.
Procedures for performing vacuum and pressure tests to detect engine leaks.
Steps required before performing engine leakage tests.
Procedure for conducting a vacuum test to check oil seals.
Procedure for conducting a pressure test to check crankcase airtightness.
Procedure for replacing oil seals on the ignition and clutch sides of the engine.
Procedure for removing and installing the shroud and its quick-release locks.
Procedure for removing and installing the cylinder, including gasket replacement.
Procedure for removing and installing the crankshaft, including bearing and seal replacement.
Procedure for replacing crankcase halves, ball bearings, and oil seals.
Procedure for removing and installing the piston, including snap ring and needle cage.
Procedure for removing and installing piston rings, including cleaning grooves.
Procedure for removing, checking, and installing the decompression valve.
Information on ignition timing, noting it is fixed and not adjustable.
Procedure for removing and checking the preseparator.
Procedure for installing a new ignition module, including connections.
Procedure for testing the ignition module using specialized testers.
Procedure for removing and installing the spark plug boot and ignition lead.
Procedure for removing and installing the flywheel, including checking for damage.
Testing and troubleshooting the short circuit wire and wiring harness.
Procedure for testing the continuity and resistance of the short circuit wire.
Procedure for removing and installing the short circuit wire and its components.
Importance of the ground wire for short circuit operation and replacement if damaged.
Procedure for removing, installing, and checking the contact spring.
Flowchart to diagnose and resolve engine running issues related to the ignition system.
Information on stiff starter rope action and troubleshooting steps.
Procedure for removing and installing the fan housing and segment.
Procedure for removing, installing, and checking the pawls.
Procedure for removing and installing the ErgoStart system components.
Procedure for removing and installing the rope rotor and relieving spring tension.
Procedure for installing a new starter rope and grip, including knot tying.
Procedure for tensioning the rewind spring and checking its tension.
Procedure for replacing the rewind spring, including safety precautions.
Procedure for replacing the buffer on the oil tank.
Procedure for removing and installing the AV spring on the oil tank.
Procedure for AV spring replacement on models with heating.
Procedure for removing and installing the AV spring on the fuel tank.
Procedure for removing and installing the AV spring on the handlebar.
Procedure for AV spring replacement on models with handlebar heating.
Procedure for removing and installing stop buffers on the clutch side.
Procedure for removing and installing stop buffers on the ignition side.
Procedure for removing and installing buffers on the filter base.
Procedure for removing and installing the handlebar.
Procedure for removing and installing the handlebar with heating system.
Procedure for removing and installing the Master Control lever.
Detailed steps for removing and installing the Master Control lever.
Procedure for removing and installing the throttle trigger and lockout lever.
Procedure for removing and installing throttle trigger/lockout lever for QuickStop Super.
Procedure for removing and installing the switch lever for QuickStop Super.
Procedure for removing and installing the lockout lever for QuickStop Super.
Procedure for removing and installing the choke rod.
Procedure for removing and installing the throttle rod.
Procedure for checking and cleaning the pickup body and oil tank.
Procedure for removing and installing the oil suction hose and pickup body.
Procedure for removing and installing the oil pump, including worm and spring.
Procedure for removing and installing the tank vent valve.
Procedure for checking, cleaning, or replacing the air filter.
Procedure for removing and checking the baffle.
Procedure for removing and installing the filter base.
Procedure for removing and installing air guide shrouds.
Procedure for air guide shroud removal/installation on manual fuel pump models.
Procedure for air guide shroud removal/installation on models with heating.
Procedure for removing and installing the carburetor.
Procedure for testing carburetor leaks using a pump.
Procedures for servicing various carburetor components.
Procedure for servicing the metering diaphragm and gasket.
Procedure for servicing the inlet needle and its components.
Procedure for servicing the pump diaphragm and gasket.
Procedure for servicing levers on the throttle shaft.
Procedure for adjusting carburetor screws (H, L, LA) and limiter caps.
Procedures for adjusting and setting the carburetor.
Procedure for basic carburetor setting after component replacement.
Procedure for standard carburetor setting and idle adjustment.
Procedure for removing and installing the carburetor carrier.
Procedure for removing and installing the intake manifold.
Procedure for testing the tank vent function using pressure and vacuum tests.
Steps for testing the tank vent, including opening the fuel tank and closing the cap.
Procedure for removing and installing the tank vent.
Components and procedures related to the fuel intake system.
Procedure for checking and cleaning the fuel tank and pickup body.
Procedure for removing and installing the fuel hose and connector.
Procedure for fuel hose installation on manual fuel pump models.
Procedure for removing and installing the manual fuel pump.
Procedure for removing and installing the tank housing.
Information on carburetor heating system components and operation.
Procedure for testing the complete heating system, including generator and element.
Procedure for testing the heating element's resistance.
Procedure for checking and installing the thermostatic switch.
Flowchart for diagnosing carburetor heating system faults.
System overview and troubleshooting for handle heating.
Troubleshooting steps for handle heating system failures caused by damage.
Procedure for removing and installing the heater switch.
Procedure for checking and replacing the heating element in the rear handle.
Information on handlebar heating element replacement (handlebar replacement required).
Procedure for removing and installing the generator.
Flowchart for diagnosing handle heating and generator system faults.
Table of test connections and resistance values for heating system components.
Procedure for replacing the wiring harness if a fault is detected.
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