7MS 290, MS 310, MS 390
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.