TS 440
English
8
Always use fuels blended for the season 
and conditions in which you are cutting. 
Avoid the use of winter blend fuels in 
summer weather conditions. Use fresh 
fuel of good quality and at least 
89 octane. STIHL MotoMix, available 
from your authorized STIHL servicing 
dealer, is recommended for best 
performance.
WARNING
WARNING
If fuel is spilled on clothes, especially 
trousers, it is very important to change 
clothes immediately. Do not rely upon 
evaporation. Flammable quantities of 
fuel may remain on clothes after a spill 
for longer than expected. Cutting metal 
or other materials capable of creating 
sparks with a cut-off machine when 
clothes are contaminated with fuel or 
gasoline is extremely dangerous, as the 
operator's clothes might catch fire and 
cause serious or fatal injury. Do not 
approach any ignition source with 
clothes contaminated by fuel.
WARNING
An improperly installed fuel cap can 
come off and spill quantities of fuel.
Fuel Filler Cap
Never use a tool to open or close the fuel 
filler cap, as this could damage the cap 
and cause fuel leakage or spillage.
The fuel filler cap must be securely 
closed after refuelling.
WARNING
Never attempt to force the fuel cap open 
by using a tool. It may damage the cap 
and allow fuel to leak.
WARNING
Before use, make sure that the fuel cap 
has been securely and properly installed 
and any spilled fuel wiped away. Check 
for fuel leakage while refueling and 
during operation. If a fuel leak is 
suspected, do not start or run the 
machine until the leak is fixed and all 
leaked fuel has been wiped away.
Before Starting
For wheel installation, follow the 
procedure described in the chapter 
"Mounting an Abrasive Wheel" in this 
instruction manual.
WARNING
Check the fuel system for leaks, 
especially the visible parts, e.g., fuel 
tank, filler cap, hose connections and 
manual fuel pump. To reduce the risk of 
personal injury or property damage from 
fire, do not start the engine if there are 
fuel leaks or damage to the fuel system. 
Have the machine repaired by an 
authorized STIHL servicing dealer 
before using it.
WARNING
Never operate a cut-off machine if it is 
damaged, improperly adjusted or 
maintained, or not completely or 
properly assembled. Check that the 
machine is ready for safe operation.
Keep the handles dry, clean and free of 
oil and fuel.
WARNING
Before operation of your cut-off 
machine, be sure the controls (e.g. 
throttle trigger, throttle trigger lockout, 
stop switch), brake and the other safety 
devices are working properly, the 
carburetor idle and maximum speed 
settings are correctly adjusted, the 
wheel is properly mounted, and the 
wheel guard is properly positioned and 
securely fastened to your unit. All 
wheels should be carefully inspected for 
Check for fuel leakage 
while refueling and during 
operation. If fuel leakage 
is found, do not start or 
run the machine until the 
leak is fixed and any 
leaked fuel has been 
wiped away. Take care 
not to get fuel on your 
clothing. If this happens, 
change your clothing 
immediately. Always 
move at least 10 feet 
(3 m) from the fueling 
spot before starting the 
engine.