TS 440
English
19
when the operator attempts to move the 
machine in a sideways direction, and 
can result in loss of control.
Maintenance, Repair and Storing of the 
Cut-Off Machine
Never operate a cut-off machine that is 
damaged, improperly adjusted or not 
completely or properly assembled. 
Follow the maintenance and repair 
instructions in the appropriate sections 
of this instruction manual.
WARNING
STIHL recommends the use of only 
STIHL replacement parts for 
maintenance and repair. Use of parts 
manufactured by others may be 
extremely dangerous and could result in 
serious or fatal injury.
WARNING
Always shut off the machine and make 
sure that the wheel is stopped before 
doing any maintenance or repair work or 
cleaning the cut-off machine. When the 
machine is shut off, the wheel continues 
to rotate for a few seconds before the 
brake engages. Do not attempt any 
maintenance or repair work not 
described in this manual as appropriate 
for users. STIHL recommends that you 
have all other work performed at your 
authorized STIHL servicing dealer.
Clean off dust and other cutting debris 
after finishing work. Check and, if 
necessary, tighten all nuts, bolts and 
screws except the carburetor 
adjustment screws after each use.
Do not clean your machine with a 
pressure washer. The solid jet of water 
may damage the machine or its 
components.
WARNING
Never test the ignition system with the 
spark plug boot removed from the spark 
plug or with an unseated spark plug, 
since uncontained sparking may cause 
a fire.
WARNING
To reduce the risk of fire and burn injury 
or property damage, use only spark 
plugs authorized by STIHL. Always 
press the spark plug boot snugly onto 
the spark plug terminal of the proper 
size. A loose connection between the 
spark plug terminal and the ignition wire 
connector in the boot may create arcing 
that could ignite combustible fumes and 
cause a fire. Keep the spark plug clean, 
and make sure the ignition lead is in 
good condition. Do not use a spark plug 
with a detachable SAE adapter terminal. 
Arcing may occur that could ignite 
combustible fumes and cause a fire. 
This can result in serious injuries or 
damage to property. 
WARNING
Do not operate your cut-off machine if 
the muffler is damaged, missing or 
modified. An improperly maintained 
muffler will increase the risk of fire and 
hearing loss. Never touch a hot muffler 
or spill fuel or other flammable liquid 
over it. Your muffler is equipped with a 
spark-arresting screen to reduce the risk 
of fire. Never operate your cut-off 
machine if the screen is missing or 
damaged.
WARNING
Operation of this equipment may create 
sparks that can start fires around dry 
vegetation. A spark arrester is required. 
The operator should contact local fire 
agencies for laws or regulations relating 
to fire prevention requirements.
In California, it is a violation of § 4442 or 
§ 4443 of the Public Resources Code to 
use or operate gasoline-powered tools 
on forest-covered, brush-covered or 
grass-covered land unless the engine’s 
exhaust system is equipped with a 
complying spark arrester that is 
maintained in effective working order. 
The owner/operator of this product is 
responsible for properly maintaining the 
spark arrester. Other states or 
governmental entities/agencies, such as 
the U.S. Forest Service, may have 
similar or additional requirements. 
Contact your local fire agency or forest 
service for the laws or regulations 
relating to fire protection requirements. 
Even if the spark arrester is in place, it 
may not be advisable to use gasoline-
powered equipment, including cut-off 
machines, in hot, dry conditions or 
around dry vegetation or brush. Contact 
your local fire authorities or the U.S. 
Forest Service if you have any question 
about whether conditions are suitable for 
the use of a cut-off machine.
For any maintenance please refer to the 
maintenance chart and to the warranty 
statement near the end of this manual.