Update: The "over oiling" problem resolved itself. I recently purchased an MS291 and it leaked even worse. For example, standing stationary with the saw running produced a standing puddle of oil in the driveway, coated my shoes and turned my pants into a fashion statement. I had to loosen the oil filler cap to release pressure or the saw would just pour oil all over my bench. That problem also resolved itself. I've come to believe that multiple heat-cycles are what is needed to resolve the leaky oil problem on these saws. Both saws are functioning as I would expect.
Btw the "tech" on that saw is from the 80s my stihl 021 is from 85 and is the same exact setup and ive nevrr had problems starting it im not sure but i did want to buy an ms 250
@@very_useless_account you’re new here. I would have loved to learn to “use the saw” but it has to start first. Watch the video with the sound turn on. I’ve forwarded your comment to the Stihl dealer. It will prevent them from having to replace power heads for saws that don’t start and run. Thanks for the tips.
@@very_useless_account The point of the video is that $300+ was spent on a new saw that ran for 10 minutes and *Never. Ran. Again.* The dealer replaced the power head after futzing with it for an hour with the Stihl rep hanging over their shoulder. This is not a procedural issue. It's a problem with the saw. Nothing will change this. I was given a new power head for my trouble and the new engine worked.
Man, you had a tough time with this saw. With the same saw I haven’t had a single issue. First day from the store I cut wood for 6 hours straight, no issues other than a dull chain.
Thanks for your info on your starting method for the MS250. I have bought one recently and they do flood easily if you are not aware of the possibility. One pull on full choke is more than enough and then onto rapid idle and I don’t have problems with flooding anymore. Enjoy your 250!
THANK YOU SO MUCH!!!!! on showing us how to start this saw. I bought a used one (practically new) for about half or a new one. Watched the guy in the shop just rip it and it started. Came home and could not get it started, Flooded immediately and felt a bit defeated. So I get it out and do exactly what you said and BAM, it's running like gem. Much love Brother!!
I’ve used Stihl for years. The only time my saw failed is when a vehicle ran it over. Once you understand how the saw works it works great. An ignorant owner is a unhappy owner.
On a cold start you're supposed to hold the throttle wide open as you push the master control lever into the choke position, this sets it up on fast idle. Pull it a couple times til it burps,then flip the switch up one notch and it starts easily. All stihl saws are made this way and it works nicely. For a warm start,just click it down one notch from the off position and pull.
Bought a ms180 c and in 4 months the ethanol fuel mix messed it up..ever since that time I switched to non ethanol and having no issues whatsoever within a year went out and bought a ms250c ..now it’s been over 10 years and both of them STIHL rocks !….great saws 👍🏼
Nothing wrong with MS 250. It's always the owner. I have run Stihl for 30 some years, I never have problems. It"s true the technology change, but the basic is the same. Get ready, how the other saw was working...Got used to what you have....
I’m a STIHL certified technician and fix these things as my job. From my experience, stihls will take a little longer to start when new until the engine and carb breaks in. After that they’re super easy to start.
This is probably the most useful comment posted on this video. The fact that the dealer replaced the power head after I used it for about 10 minutes run time is another key piece of info nobody here wants to acknowledge. After my first day of ownership the saw Never. Ran. Again. and they gave me a new one. To your point - once they broke in both of my saws start and run fine.
@@dirtyshirtinfo haha! I’m sorry you didn’t have a good experience with your saw. The 250 is by far the most popular saw we sell. They are very easy to work on and last a very long time if taken care of. What kills them the most from my experience is people using them as a professional grade saw, or people not using actual bar oil and letting the sprocket bearing heat up, making all that plastic melt!
please if you can tell me what carb i need for my MS250 Zama carb# S76B 842A C10 1123/00A. I was told its discontinued after they ordered it for me and I went topick it up. any help would be appreciated thank you
Compared to Husquevarna, they are not super easy to start. My Husquevarnas start on two pulls, Stihl take at least five or six pulls. It has nothing to do with tuning or any user errors, they have been like that since day one. Is this a big deal? No. But it is fact.
As an arborist of many years. I have owned and operated Stihl, Echo, Husqvarna. many different Model ranges from home owner to Pro Models. I have heard this same complaint from new apprentice loggers to home owners on starting the saws. First thing to note is, it’s a Chainsaw. It’s not a trimmer or a blower. So read the starting instructions. I noticed right in your video you didn’t squeeze the trigger when putting it in full choke. Then you did it below the camera. So your still not used to starting it. Second the choke is designed to add extra fuel via a Venturi into the intake port and bottom of the crank case. Weather it starts or not with two maybe the pulls on full choke stop. The switch to high Idle. Pull 1, 2, 3 times max it will start. Blip the throttle to drop the rpm to idle. All three major manufacturers use the same brand carburetors. Zama or Walbro. They work the same. All three brands have Choke, high idle and run/idle. Every brand instructs you to start the saw the same way. The 025, ms250 has been on the market longer then almost any saw Stihl sells. Yes it has been revised. 1 out of maybe 500 new high quality saws may come home with a problem. Use quality fuel follow starting procedures. When cold. Then read about starting with a warm or hot engine, it’s all in the instructions. Done!
I love my Ms 250.. it runs great and the only issue was the plastic around the recoil rope after 10 years broke up. I just ordered the new part and I will be back in action..
My Stihl MS361 floods if I look at it wrong. I have spent the last two days and a sore arm trying to get it started. Not giving up though. Going to try the half pull. Great video.
Thomas H H check your gas mix .. then check your air filter and your spark plug... if it doesn’t work after a tune up then it is defective and covered under the stihl lifetime warranty
@@Smegma_pirate I did all that stuff. I was able to return it to the ace hardware I got it from. I was very disappointed in Stihl. I wrote them a detailed E mail about my experience. I have not heard back from them. Don't think I will either.
Very informative video! Thank you for sharing your experiences with this saw. I recently purchased this model and had issues flooding it upon getting it started. I will try the premixed fuel next and see how it performs. Thanks again, much appreciated! 👍
I know im a few years late on this but the vents you speak of on the clutch cover are to strengthen the plastic where you tighten the bar nuts and the hole for the tensioner. Personally, I hate those in every saw I own that has them because they do fill up, especially if you cut a lot of dirty wood like I do. Without them though, that clutch cover would have to either be magnesium or have the wall thickness increased a great deal which of course would no longer hit the price point these saws are in. Just the nature of the beast. Props for sharing your true feelings on the saw though man! Its tough to say anything negative at all about Stihl products on the internet with the cult following they have. They do make some great products and I own many of them, but like every other brand these days there are some things that are questionable.
Thanks for this helpful info. Was ready to give up saw other videos but that little 1/2 pull trick in the two choke positions it kicked off! You the Man !
I’ve owned four saws of similar size. This Stihl is BY FAR the best of them all. My friend has the same exact saw and been running it hard for four years. Never a problem. 1. choke 2. Pull till it burps (typically 2-3 times) 3. Run mode 4. Pull 2-3 times 5.STARTS This has been my experience with over two years and 30 tanks of fuel. Two tips that are essential. Run fresh Stihl premix synthetic fuel (93 octane) 50:1 Clean your air filter every three times you use it, I blow them out with my compressor and wash in warm water with joy once at the end of the season. Good luck! It’s a great piece of equipment.
Not a big Stihl fan as I’m not liking how they sell equipment, but can honestly say I think they do make good equipment and would consider purchasing. Have had different pieces over the years with little or no issues.
I looked at a lot of models as i wanted 44cc-45cc powerhead and 10 lb weight range .. I owned and ran a Huskie 444 for 19 years which had a 44cc powerhead with a 20" bar length.. I have owned my MS-250 for several years now and only had one problem with it other than that it's a great saw and meets my needs fine .. Starts easy has good power ratio and i run a full skip chisel chain on it as i do enjoy cutting speed .. The company builds very good quality saws which hold up fine for a long use...
Norman Mallory Thank you Norman. After 6 months or so of using the saw my problems and doubts have evaporated. The power and predictability have gone from questionable to old reliable. Power in particular has improved with break in and use. I’m sharpening a throw-away chain as I write this. I ran the devil out of it on some huge tree roots that simply had to go. That process keeps doing horrible things to this chain but I’m able to get it to cut with some TLC. My primary chain blazes through the wood as expected. 👌👍😀
If your having start issue maybe yall should read the users manual, it's not this complicated . 3 pulls full chock 2 to 3 pulls half chock , when its warm start from half chock , buy high octane rec gas an use hp ultra 2 cycle oil , dont over tighten your chain , everytime you fill it up add bar oil, an just so you know a almost empty tank ran side was needs more gas less you getting pinched fellin a tree in that case us a fellin wedge an wedge banger.
Starting a 250 can be difficult. It is a high compression saw with a heavy pull over. I have two of them. One, I built and the other a brand new one. Either one will wear out your arm and shoulder. I start all my saws the same way. I pull them until they roll over and then push the control lever up to half choke and pull until it starts. If you miss the roll over and continue pulling in full choke you will flood the saw. If the saw jerks back, I consider that to be a roll over and push it up to half choke, immediately. I never consider a saw to be over oiling. The 250 does not have an adjustable oiler, so it is what it is. Use Stihl Platinum bar oil. It will reduce oiling because it clings to the bar.
Just today bought the MS250 will be using it tomorrow to cleanup some dead falls. Disagree with your opinion on the fuel, but to each his own. Got an extra year on my warranty by buying a 6 pack of the 50:1 oil. What was to outcome of using the 50:1 in the 40:1 edge trimmer. I've use 40:1 in 50:1 many times with no problems.
Jack M Congratulations Jack it will just get better as breakin occurs. No noticeable issues using 50:1 synthetic fuel in a 40:1 hedge trimmer. She cuts!
I also have the ms 250, but haven't had any issues with it so far. Had it for about a year now and it's been perfect for my needs. Just like you I made the same commitment as you to only buy the premixed fuel and oil. Pump gas is really bad for 2 stroke engines. I know this is an old video but felt like I needed to comment on it. 👍
BigKen_NJ Thanks for watching and for your reasonable comment. Some guys who watch this interpret the video as a direct assault on God, King, and Country 🤷♂️. I like both Stihl saws I own.
My experience with chain saws is: they all leak. Get used to it. Put the saw on top of a rag when you're done using it. Also, during the break-in period, go easy on the saw. I've owned several Stihls, including an 044 and my present 291. They've always been difficult to pull start, but they do start. Let the saw run a few seconds before you press the trigger and start to cut. A warmed-up Stihl will run all day. If it stalls out and floods, put it away for a few hours to let the flooding recede (works for me). If you turn the saw off temporarily, give it a few revs and then let it idle for a second or two before shutting down. It should start with no problem. As a beginner I had little confidence in Stihls and always told myself to go with an easier starting brand. But as I gained experienc e I have come to realize that Stihls are the best most powerful chainsaw out there, by far. Sooooo, don't give up. Get used to the hard pull starts. That's a Stihl trademark. So is the cover nuts coming loose and falling off. They flood. Stihl knows this, but chooses to either ignore the problem, deny there is one, or (dumbest of all) recommends pulling the starter cord about 20 times to relieve the flooding after which they say the saw should start. No. Give it a rest, and take a spare saw with you if you must. Stihls are the best saw out there. You can get easier starters, Huskys or Echos, but they will let you down performance wise. In short, get to know your Stihl. Eventually you'll find it's a good friend that will take care of you if you take care of it.
Bought this same saw last year. Left it over winter with the Stihl premium fuel in it. I cannot get it to start for anything!! It only has like 15 minutes of run time on it.
When you store the saw you should run the saw with some fuel stabilizer in the gas until its warm. Drain the tank on the saw and run it again until it runs out of fuel. Good to store. Refuel when you start using it again and you should be good to go.
I have an MS 250 with low hours on it and was using it one day, I had just made an easy cut, and was holding the saw, and while it was idling, I heard a clanging bumbling noise from it and it quit running,.. the crankshaft wrung off right below the flywheel,.... On a facebook chainsaw site where I posted this happening I was told the MS 250 had a problem with the shaft wringing off like mine did,...
Ms 250 staring procedure is the same with every stihl chainsaw with conventional carburetor! I have come across many videos on UA-cam from people who demonstrate how to start a chainsaw and they donut wrong! Be careful out there! Ms 250 is a great homeowner saw that with proper service and usage will last a lifetime! I own the Ms230 who is same block and engine with the 250! I own also an ms 290! Both oiling correct , and the 290feature an adjustable oiler, to regulate the oil flow at your needs
So i cut wood for a living had 260 hours on my ms 250 before I got another one. If you flood it you have too pull the plug out and pull the cord about 100 times to dry it out. But that saw I know like the back of my hand and has been nothing but amazing!!! ALWAYS CUTS!! I love the ms250!!!
you do not have to pull it 100 times. you dont even have to pull the plug if you're willing to pull that much. you just need to have the throttle wide open while you pull.
i had same issue, used for 15 min, left it for 3 mo, went to use it again started right up then would not start the very next day, i use VP ethanol free fuel, had to dissasemble and put fuel in carb and finally got it running
The way I adjust chains. I tighten the adjuster until when I pick up the chain on the topside fof the bar I can see the chain move upwards a slight bit on the bottom side of the bar. ❤
I believe the first power head I brought home and died after 10 minutes of use was spark/magneto as well. I didn't diagnose it since it was new and I didn't feel as though it was my problem to solve. I returned it. The new saw has been great. But the point is these issues shouldn't have happened in the first place. Be prepared for other comments blaming you for all your saw-problems. Some (most?) of the guys who watch the video have their identities tied to the Stihl brand. It's like a marriage. My video and your comment are like we're both hitting on their wives and they comment proportionate to that. Lol...
My MS 250/18" bar is 11 years old. Just last month I had to clean the carb and replace the pump/diaphragm . This saw has cut nothing but 18" up to 38" dead red oak and hickory and even black jack oak = high chain and bar wear. Lots of dust cutting seasoned hard woods. The saw is on its second sprocket. I buy two chains at a time and its on the 3rd set and about to wear the 2nd bar out. I use sthil fuel lube and a synthetic chain lube. I flooded the saw right out of the box. Back to the shop where I bought it. I walked in with it and before I could say anything he says you flooded it. Common issue as I was used to cranking full choke till it burbled...then fast idle and crank. This 250 pulls twice on full choke...then flip the lever to fast idle and it starts the 2nd or 3rd pull. I've used several chainsaw brands and the flip lever is the best I've found. Never have to look where the lever is . On a restart just flip the lever down to full choke and then up one notch....do it by feel. Great idea.
@@toronjillo2 In colder months I use E10 or all gas. I don't mix but 1/2 gal at a time so gas is fresh. As seasons warm like now at 95+ plus degrees I use 100 % gas and Stihl lube in any gas.
All common issues the second time around, fuel pick up is weighted and a new line a bit stiff, about your bar, keep that groove clean and your oiler holes clean etc. over oiling? that is good and will help if you are in pitchy wood, most Stihls oil well, but when they do not, you have big trouble, so check manual and change filters when needed. Think she will be good for many years. BTW you can buy non ethanol gas from many stations and use the Stihl oil to mix gas for working, the can stuff is good for long storage though. Expensive stuff. Nice saw.
Agree with all of your comments and observations. Because the first power head failed I didn't trust the saw and was just waiting for the next failure in the second power head....and got it. To recap: a power head failure in the first saw, fuel starvation, slinging the chain, a lot of oil, hard start. These were not endearing experiences. That having been said I've put quite a bit more time in with it and can honestly say fuel delivery is resolved, it doesn't (or hasn't) slung the chain, oil delivery seems appropriate, and it's a joy to start when done as described in the vid - starts every time and the robustness seems appropriate for the price point. The more it's used the better it gets. Stihl and I just had a bad first date but we've worked out the kinks in our marriage. Thanks for commenting.
Of course, bad first date but now I expect a good marriage because miss Stihl she does pretty good lol The saw will last for years if you take care of it. Also here on you tube you may find lots of tips, that model is very popular.
Older dude he knows, some green horn would advice something to heavy and expensive Lol, those little saws have the power and are comfortable to use. I used big saws because I needed them etc, but I enjoy picking up my little MS170 and doing some yard work. I judge a saw by how it performs not because it is a pro or not a pro model. Those home owner saws have stood up to pro duty in the hands of many poor boys getting pulp or heating homes. That old dude got her figgered out fine. Enjoy your new saw, God bless.
I bought a bundle of stihl saws dirt cheap, all of ehich work and one of which is an ms250 with ergo start. My issue with it is that it smokes like crazy when running and I can't figure out why, the gas mixture is correct, rings are good it starts easily, carb was pretty clean.
Oil in the muffler or the carb is set too rich. Remove the muffler and flush it to get the oil out. If not the problem, the carb might be set too rich. Readjustment is needed.
your saw might not be getting set-up right at the dealership and for the oil I find 2 tanks of has to one tank of oil is about the norm. We got a ms 290 after Rita and cleaned up 6 acres of woods then again for ike and cut 2 cords of wood every year till just the other day my nephew mixed the wrong mix in it and burnt it up I'm thinking about the 250 this time
Raymond Simpson Thanks for watching Raymond. I picked up this MS291 this weekend and did a bench top comparison with the MS250. Although I had problems to start with they’ve work themselves out and I talked about that in the new vid. You can check it out here: ua-cam.com/video/QKsFgNDeI3U/v-deo.html
Stihl saws are easy to flood. Pull it a couple of pulls in the cold start position and push it up to half choke. When it starts let it run from 15 to 30 seconds on half choke (warm start) and then blip to idle. Let idle for five minutes before using. If you think you have flooded it - put it in the run position and pull it over 10 times before putting it in the half choke position and pulling it until it starts.
The 250 isa pita to start if you do not know it idiosyncrasies. I listen for rollover,but that is not the only indicator as to when you should push it up to half choke. Another is it will yank back. When it does this, push it up to half choke before you pull it, again. Usually when you get a bar impacted with saw dust is because you are not running the saw wide open in the cut. Saws are made to operate at idle orWFO. It is good that you let your saw warm up. I let all saws run for five minutes at idle before I use them. When I crack a gas or bar oil cap, I refill them.I seldom ever use the chain break, unless I am letting them idle, unattended. I like Moto Mix but it is to pricy for me. I mi my own with premium non ethanol gas and Stihl Ultra. I also add one ounce of fuel stabilizer to each gallon of gas. I run 50:1 in everything I own. If the equipment proscribes 40:1, I just add an extra cap full of oil in its tank before I fill it with 50:1. I do not keep two versions of fuel in my shop.
My ms 250 the next day I flooded it, pulled the plug out dried it and pulled it over a few times and then put the plug in. Set the saw on run and it didn't start. Put it on the shelf and next day put the level down on run pulled it and it started. I let it run for a spell. Checked the fluids ran it again shut it off and the whole time it sat it leaked bar oil. Off to the dealer and they had it a week and said the cap was leaking. I said it looks as though it leaks on the bottom and not the cap. They said they put a dye in the oil and it was coming from the cap. They said they were done doing anything with the saw. I wish I had never bought it. So took it home dumped out the bar oil and it has sat on a shelf for about a year now. If i need to use a chainsaw i use my 170 and it can do anything i give it. Years ago i bought a brand new stihl chainsaw and it was a bigger one that was easier to pull but for the life of me can't remember the model. I wish I had kept that saw and when I sold it, i had only used it one time.
i got the ms 170 use the hp ultra, no problem so far, use good gasoling, ive left it for a few months, maybe around the 3 months every now and then, try to use it more often than that, but havn't really had any issues with it. good thing that around here its easy to get ethanol free fuel.
Well congratulations. My thoughts are mixed. The saw is absolutely great, balanced, capable, and I'm sure you'll enjoy it. However, like most two strokes (my saws, string trimmer, 150hp boat engine, etc.) they seems to all need some familiarity to get them started and run them with minimal fuss. Once the saw broke in and this familiarity thing was old news it's been great. My problem is what I had to go through to get the initial problems fixed - remember I had to have the power head replaced after 10 minutes of run time. That's a problem that's hard to ignore.
@@dirtyshirtinfo thanks for replying I'm hoping to get out this weekend to cut up some firewood I got the saw yesterday for my birthday which is today. I've started it and ran it in the garage a couple times but haven't cut any wood with it yet I'm excited to get out and use it.
hey man the vent thing in the clutch cover is not a vent they empty out these things so that you get full contact with the bar the same way a three legged stool never rocks and a four legged one will find a way to
The fact that they gave you a new powerhead is disturbing. What was wrong wit the other one? Glad that you found a technique that works for you. I am still trying to get mine started. I was able to get it to run after about 30 mins of trying on my first day of owning it. Cut some wood it ran great. Even did some hot restarts no trouble. Let it sit for a couple hours get it cold... well I am still trying to get it started. Good video and info.
Thomas H H After they fiddled with the first powerhead for an hour or more then offered the new powerhead, I grabbed it an ran no questions asked. I would bet your saw is overchoked and flooding. Once you do get it running, then it grows cold, I would try one or two pulls with choke on then switch it off no matter what and try and start it with the switch set to run. These saws just act differently than any other 2 cycle I’ve ever owned.
@@dirtyshirtinfo I have pulled the plug and cleared any fuel that was in there. (nothing came out plug was not wet. ). Go back to the sequence anti still won start. I give up. Taking it back tomorrow try to calm express my discontent.
Thomas H H Sorry to hear that. I’m sure you’ve seen the good press the Husqvarnas get - but there are far fewer dealers near me. That may be a small price to pay for a saw that starts.
Well give it a chance and if it keep screwing up and you get aggravated with it you can allways move up to a husky or a echo less prestigious but less expensive for about the same HP.
push the primer bulb 3 or 4 times turn the choke on dont hold the trigger down, give it a pull then turn the choke off dont hold the trigger down pull it again and it will start right up, every stihl i have owned, string trimmer, leaf blowers, saws all have started using that method
I've got this model and have had problems also. The main problem with all small engines in this day is the fuel. Don't use gas from the pump w/ethynol! It tears up small engine parts! They should do away w/ ethynol! The fuel producers should be sued for all the problems they've caused anybody that mows their yard, cuts wood or uses any small engine equipment due to the headaches they have caused each and everyone of them.!
Flooding a Stihl saw is easy if you do not listen to it, as you start it. When cold, put it in full choke and pull it smartly, until you hear it roll over, attempt to start but not start, and immediately after it rolls over, push the control lever up one notch and pull until it runs. I put steel dogs on all of my saws. It takes just a few minutes to put them on and they are cheap. You got chips under the chain because you were not hitting the wood with the chain spinning or a improperly adjusted chain tension. New chains stretch and can get loose The first thing I check is gas, bar oil and chain tension. I can tell from you comments you are a novice user. The gas filter should be in the bottom of the gas tank. I seldom ever use the chain break. I grew up without one, so it being there or not there is in material.I mix my own two cycle with Premium, non ethanol, gas. Stihl ultra oil is the filthiest oil in the world. I burn 50:1 in everything but I use a JASO FD oil. My 37 year old Poulan S25DA runs it fine and it was a 40:1 saw when it was built.
Mine too. Great saw it’s been my go to for firewood for the last four years, be cut maybe a hundred cords with it and haven’t been kind to the saw, it’s a beast of a saw for the price, keep It sharp and clean and it’ll cut anything
I use ethanol gas in nothing but my cars. All two and four cycle engines are fed premium, non ethanol gas. I pay more for it but it gives me no carb issues. I break in new saws with Stihl Moto Mix.
I have a Stihl MS-250 saw and hate it because it is so difficult to crank and the repair shop people was able to finally crank it. When I got it home each time I could not crank it except for a few times to test it and when trying to do it again it would not crank. I have a Poulan Pro saw which has the same problems and I ended up buying a battery saw from Poulan and it works just fine and cranks each time. I also have an older Poulan which was the first saw I owned and it gave me a long service life and now needs some service and it may run perfect again.
Sounds like you have a problem with the retailer not the saw. Unless you purchased it in a box it sounds like the retailer did a shoddy assembly and tune. And they did not instruct you on how to start it properly. For instance, pushing the choke to the bottom is the primer and should only be used at first started up (no more than 2 to 3 pulls or you will flood the engine) unless you have run out of fuel .
thyey are bad about flooding you need to pull the chord 2or 3 times before you put it in choke .Once flooded you take plug out take it off choke and turn saw over and pull the chord a few times to get gas out
I find it irritating the way this guy has no idea what he’s talking about yet still making videos bashing this saw.. he clearly wanted an oil-less electric chainsaw with the torque of a Tesla... yet bought an ms 250
I have never had any starting issues with my MS250C except when I didn't prime it. I know exactly where the switch is all of the time so I don't know where you are going with your switch discussion. I may have a solution for your sawdust jamming the bar/chain if you haven't rectified that yet: a sharp chain will make bigger chips and little dust. Sharpening a chain with a round file is easier than any skill you could learn. Your gas thing...well, you should use premium fuel for all small engines - no ethanol. I only aquire a little when I need it. I may go to premixed when I run out of Stihl oil, but for now, I will still mix. It's not really 'brand envy' ...just look at people who work in the woods - not one using a Poulan.
Harry Wernsman Regular price was $350 and I paid $300. Throw in 8.25% tax, bar oil, synthetic gas, spare chain, and I was in for about $370 best I recall. After resolving some of the issues the saw is very reliable and fun to operate. The weight is in the butter zone, just right. My 291 is on the heavy side.
It sounds like you have more of an issue with the hardware store than you do the saw, maybe you should do a video bashing Ace hardware instead of Stihl and keep learning how to actually use the saw.
Thanks for watching Dick, I mean Scott. Stihl will do fine as long as people will pay to buy junk that doesn’t work. The saw came from a Stihl dealer and the Stihl rep happened to be making his rounds when I returned the saw. He replaced the powerhead. Watch the video again with the sound turned on. 🖕
I bought one and it did not oil at all !! Took it back and they wanted to work on it but I said to just keep it and wanted to buy the Farm Boss with 20 in. bar . An upgrade right ? They only had one Farm Boss and it had an 18 in. bar on it . Well I said put a 20 in. bar and chain on it and I would buy it . The guy looks at me and says they will not let them do that !! Seriously ? So I said I want my money back and I will go somewhere else .
U just need 2 go back to whatever brand saw u used before! Now that you've ran Stihl's name through the mud. Also it is your responsibility to inspect your equipment each and every time u put it 2 work!!!
Bought a new 250, ran great first time has bnot wanted to start since. Same with a Stihl 170. These things are crap. Once running fine but a poulon at least starts. I have tried multiple modifications and on the 170 even the dealer cant get it to start.
Ms250’s just love to flood. I never pull them over in full choke over seldom pulls, before pushing them up to half choke. Every saw that I have starts a little differently, so you must know your saw. Most of my saws are Pro saws but they are no different than clamshell saws. My guess your saw is not tuned properly. All saws find a way to get the sprocket cover dirty and covered with oil. There is no such thing as a saw that uses to much oil. To much is better than not enough. I never trust dealers to set up my saws. I do it myself, that way I know it is done correctly. Chain tension the same way. I seldom if ever use the chain break. I grew up without them and am not dumb enough to get myself in a fix where they are needed. I mix my own two cycle gas. I do not use ethanol gas. I use premium non ethanol gas in everything two cycle or four cycle, except cars. My two cycle is stabilized for two years.
You don't have Stihl chainsaw problems you have Saw Shop problems can you turn the joke all the way on pull it twice turn the choke all the way off pull it the third time it fires up and runs you peel its ears back and go to Cottonwood if you're getting sawdust stuck in your clutch area it's because your chain is not sharp enough if you're not going to run it for at least a week drain the gas out of it and run it dry when you cut sideways with a saw you always cut with the pull rope up and put a 2-foot bar on it it'll pull it
I learned that I needed to throw it in the garbage so that's what I did and bought a Husqvarna. Runs like a dream. I have a short video showing me smashing the Stihl POS on a cement slab. Check it out....
A bottle of fuel stabilizer is much less expensive . Ask someone that logs for a living what they think of that fuel instead of someone that is selling it . Just sayin .
everything you said is True about the 250 I have two. I wont again. The 170 16" bar. works well but small. Husky rancher is great. I'll bump from the 250 stihl to a stihl 20" bar. I not as stong as I use to be. lol
For the gas problem you said it yourself "whatever oil you can find" - stop using shit oil and you wont have problems with your fuel, 40 to 45:1 ratio, not 50.
I have one of these.This is the worst expensive tool I've ever owned.It floods easily,it's hard to pull when it floods.I have broken the pull rope several times..The pull handle is flimsy and if you try to knot the pull rope it will just pull through..After much starting difficulty the PLASTIC pawl in the recoil broke and rendered the saw useless.I hate this saw.I never had a Stihl before I bought it.I was tired of Poulan's and other cheap saws that last 2 seasons.I paid a lot for this POS from Ace hardware.They ought to make this saw heavier so it could be used as a boat anchor.It's good for aught else.And you're instructed to start it by placing it in the ground and putting your toe into the stirrup. Not enough room for a child's foot with a boot on.What junk!
Update: The "over oiling" problem resolved itself. I recently purchased an MS291 and it leaked even worse. For example, standing stationary with the saw running produced a standing puddle of oil in the driveway, coated my shoes and turned my pants into a fashion statement. I had to loosen the oil filler cap to release pressure or the saw would just pour oil all over my bench. That problem also resolved itself. I've come to believe that multiple heat-cycles are what is needed to resolve the leaky oil problem on these saws. Both saws are functioning as I would expect.
dirtyshirtinfo we found the next Marlboro man, oohps I mean the next stihL man. Looks like you and that saw belong together 😆
Btw the "tech" on that saw is from the 80s my stihl 021 is from 85 and is the same exact setup and ive nevrr had problems starting it im not sure but i did want to buy an ms 250
I've got a 291. Nice saw 👍
@@very_useless_account you’re new here. I would have loved to learn to “use the saw” but it has to start first. Watch the video with the sound turn on. I’ve forwarded your comment to the Stihl dealer. It will prevent them from having to replace power heads for saws that don’t start and run. Thanks for the tips.
@@very_useless_account The point of the video is that $300+ was spent on a new saw that ran for 10 minutes and *Never. Ran. Again.* The dealer replaced the power head after futzing with it for an hour with the Stihl rep hanging over their shoulder. This is not a procedural issue. It's a problem with the saw. Nothing will change this. I was given a new power head for my trouble and the new engine worked.
Always had trouble starting my 250.
After watching I tried the half pull first and started right up with 3 pulls. Many thanks
Your how-to-start tips were the only thing that worked for me in starting my new MS250. Thanks!
Man, you had a tough time with this saw. With the same saw I haven’t had a single issue. First day from the store I cut wood for 6 hours straight, no issues other than a dull chain.
Thanks for your info on your starting method for the MS250. I have bought one recently and they do flood easily if you are not aware of the possibility. One pull on full choke is more than enough and then onto rapid idle and I don’t have problems with flooding anymore. Enjoy your 250!
THANK YOU SO MUCH!!!!! on showing us how to start this saw. I bought a used one (practically new) for about half or a new one. Watched the guy in the shop just rip it and it started. Came home and could not get it started, Flooded immediately and felt a bit defeated. So I get it out and do exactly what you said and BAM, it's running like gem. Much love Brother!!
I’ve used Stihl for years. The only time my saw failed is when a vehicle ran it over. Once you understand how the saw works it works great. An ignorant owner is a unhappy owner.
You fit in the same category if you ran the fucken saw over with your car.😂 sounds pretty ignorant to me.
@@christopher4100 Yeah, I was unhappy that day.
@@larryreno8293 we all make mistakes....
Ignorance is bliss..
Exactly. This guy really doesn't know what he's talking about
On a cold start you're supposed to hold the throttle wide open as you push the master control lever into the choke position, this sets it up on fast idle. Pull it a couple times til it burps,then flip the switch up one notch and it starts easily. All stihl saws are made this way and it works nicely. For a warm start,just click it down one notch from the off position and pull.
if idle is set correctly a warmstart works in 1 also without a problem
Bought a ms180 c and in 4 months the ethanol fuel mix messed it up..ever since that time I switched to non ethanol and having no issues whatsoever within a year went out and bought a ms250c ..now it’s been over 10 years and both of them STIHL rocks !….great saws 👍🏼
Nothing wrong with MS 250. It's always the owner. I have run Stihl for 30 some years, I never have problems. It"s true the technology change, but the basic is the same. Get ready, how the other saw was working...Got used to what you have....
Put a new carburetor on mine. Started and ran great for a year. Then i had to slightly adjust carburetor. Now cranks right up and runs good.
I’m a STIHL certified technician and fix these things as my job. From my experience, stihls will take a little longer to start when new until the engine and carb breaks in. After that they’re super easy to start.
This is probably the most useful comment posted on this video. The fact that the dealer replaced the power head after I used it for about 10 minutes run time is another key piece of info nobody here wants to acknowledge. After my first day of ownership the saw Never. Ran. Again. and they gave me a new one. To your point - once they broke in both of my saws start and run fine.
@@dirtyshirtinfo haha! I’m sorry you didn’t have a good experience with your saw. The 250 is by far the most popular saw we sell. They are very easy to work on and last a very long time if taken care of. What kills them the most from my experience is people using them as a professional grade saw, or people not using actual bar oil and letting the sprocket bearing heat up, making all that plastic melt!
please if you can tell me what carb i need for my MS250 Zama carb# S76B 842A C10 1123/00A. I was told its discontinued after they ordered it for me and I went topick it up. any help would be appreciated thank you
Compared to Husquevarna, they are not super easy to start. My Husquevarnas start on two pulls, Stihl take at least five or six pulls. It has nothing to do with tuning or any user errors, they have been like that since day one. Is this a big deal? No. But it is fact.
As an arborist of many years. I have owned and operated Stihl, Echo, Husqvarna. many different Model ranges from home owner to Pro Models. I have heard this same complaint from new apprentice loggers to home owners on starting the saws. First thing to note is, it’s a Chainsaw. It’s not a trimmer or a blower. So read the starting instructions. I noticed right in your video you didn’t squeeze the trigger when putting it in full choke. Then you did it below the camera. So your still not used to starting it. Second the choke is designed to add extra fuel via a Venturi into the intake port and bottom of the crank case. Weather it starts or not with two maybe the pulls on full choke stop. The switch to high Idle. Pull 1, 2, 3 times max it will start. Blip the throttle to drop the rpm to idle. All three major manufacturers use the same brand carburetors. Zama or Walbro. They work the same. All three brands have Choke, high idle and run/idle. Every brand instructs you to start the saw the same way. The 025, ms250 has been on the market longer then almost any saw Stihl sells. Yes it has been revised. 1 out of maybe 500 new high quality saws may come home with a problem. Use quality fuel follow starting procedures. When cold. Then read about starting with a warm or hot engine, it’s all in the instructions. Done!
I love my Ms 250.. it runs great and the only issue was the plastic around the recoil rope after 10 years broke up. I just ordered the new part and I will be back in action..
My Stihl MS361 floods if I look at it wrong. I have spent the last two days and a sore arm trying to get it started. Not giving up though. Going to try the half pull. Great video.
Choke all the way down, pull till it coughs once them move switch up one, then pull it an start it up . Thats how you start these saws
If you follow this process it will start every time, only time I had a problem was at higher elevation with 0 f temps.
yes thats the instructions that come with it, and that is what everyone says. But it doesnt work on all saws. Mine included.
Mark Disario I find it strange that the store that sold him this saw didn’t take time to inform him of this 🤔
Thomas H H check your gas mix .. then check your air filter and your spark plug... if it doesn’t work after a tune up then it is defective and covered under the stihl lifetime warranty
@@Smegma_pirate I did all that stuff. I was able to return it to the ace hardware I got it from. I was very disappointed in Stihl. I wrote them a detailed E mail about my experience. I have not heard back from them. Don't think I will either.
Very informative video! Thank you for sharing your experiences with this saw. I recently purchased this model and had issues flooding it upon getting it started. I will try the premixed fuel next and see how it performs. Thanks again, much appreciated! 👍
The burp on the ms250 is subtle sometimes… you have to become the saw whisperer 😂
I know im a few years late on this but the vents you speak of on the clutch cover are to strengthen the plastic where you tighten the bar nuts and the hole for the tensioner. Personally, I hate those in every saw I own that has them because they do fill up, especially if you cut a lot of dirty wood like I do. Without them though, that clutch cover would have to either be magnesium or have the wall thickness increased a great deal which of course would no longer hit the price point these saws are in. Just the nature of the beast. Props for sharing your true feelings on the saw though man! Its tough to say anything negative at all about Stihl products on the internet with the cult following they have. They do make some great products and I own many of them, but like every other brand these days there are some things that are questionable.
Thanks for this helpful info. Was ready to give up saw other videos but that little 1/2 pull trick in the two choke positions it kicked off! You the Man !
I’ve owned four saws of similar size. This Stihl is BY FAR the best of them all. My friend has the same exact saw and been running it hard for four years. Never a problem.
1. choke
2. Pull till it burps (typically 2-3 times)
3. Run mode
4. Pull 2-3 times
5.STARTS
This has been my experience with over two years and 30 tanks of fuel.
Two tips that are essential.
Run fresh Stihl premix synthetic fuel (93 octane) 50:1
Clean your air filter every three times you use it, I blow them out with my compressor and wash in warm water with joy once at the end of the season. Good luck! It’s a great piece of equipment.
Not a big Stihl fan as I’m not liking how they sell equipment, but can honestly say I think they do make good equipment and would consider purchasing. Have had different pieces over the years with little or no issues.
I looked at a lot of models as i wanted 44cc-45cc powerhead and 10 lb weight range ..
I owned and ran a Huskie 444 for 19 years which had a 44cc powerhead with a 20" bar length.. I have owned my MS-250 for several years now and only had one problem with it other than that it's a great saw and meets my needs fine .. Starts easy has good power ratio and i run a full skip chisel chain on it as i do enjoy cutting speed .. The company builds very good quality saws which hold up fine for a long use...
Norman Mallory Thank you Norman. After 6 months or so of using the saw my problems and doubts have evaporated. The power and predictability have gone from questionable to old reliable. Power in particular has improved with break in and use. I’m sharpening a throw-away chain as I write this. I ran the devil out of it on some huge tree roots that simply had to go. That process keeps doing horrible things to this chain but I’m able to get it to cut with some TLC. My primary chain blazes through the wood as expected. 👌👍😀
If your having start issue maybe yall should read the users manual, it's not this complicated . 3 pulls full chock 2 to 3 pulls half chock , when its warm start from half chock , buy high octane rec gas an use hp ultra 2 cycle oil , dont over tighten your chain , everytime you fill it up add bar oil, an just so you know a almost empty tank ran side was needs more gas less you getting pinched fellin a tree in that case us a fellin wedge an wedge banger.
I've run the same MS 250 for over 30 years with no problems other than I replaced the carb after 30 years for about $35.00
Starting a 250 can be difficult. It is a high compression saw with a heavy pull over. I have two of them. One, I built and the other a brand new one. Either one will wear out your arm and shoulder. I start all my saws the same way. I pull them until they roll over and then push the control lever up to half choke and pull until it starts. If you miss the roll over and continue pulling in full choke you will flood the saw. If the saw jerks back, I consider that to be a roll over and push it up to half choke, immediately. I never consider a saw to be over oiling. The 250 does not have an adjustable oiler, so it is what it is. Use Stihl Platinum bar oil. It will reduce oiling because it clings to the bar.
Just today bought the MS250 will be using it tomorrow to cleanup some dead falls. Disagree with your opinion on the fuel, but to each his own. Got an extra year on my warranty by buying a 6 pack of the 50:1 oil. What was to outcome of using the 50:1 in the 40:1 edge trimmer. I've use 40:1 in 50:1 many times with no problems.
Jack M Congratulations Jack it will just get better as breakin occurs. No noticeable issues using 50:1 synthetic fuel in a 40:1 hedge trimmer. She cuts!
I also have the ms 250, but haven't had any issues with it so far. Had it for about a year now and it's been perfect for my needs. Just like you I made the same commitment as you to only buy the premixed fuel and oil. Pump gas is really bad for 2 stroke engines. I know this is an old video but felt like I needed to comment on it. 👍
BigKen_NJ Thanks for watching and for your reasonable comment. Some guys who watch this interpret the video as a direct assault on God, King, and Country 🤷♂️. I like both Stihl saws I own.
Gas tank cracked bc the saw was bouncing in my trailer. Bought a replacement and fixed it myself and also bought a case. Works great just leaks oil.
I picked up one of these traded some labor for it. That is a cutting little bear man
My experience with chain saws is: they all leak. Get used to it. Put the saw on top of a rag when you're done using it. Also, during the break-in period, go easy on the saw. I've owned several Stihls, including an 044 and my present 291. They've always been difficult to pull start, but they do start. Let the saw run a few seconds before you press the trigger and start to cut. A warmed-up Stihl will run all day. If it stalls out and floods, put it away for a few hours to let the flooding recede (works for me). If you turn the saw off temporarily, give it a few revs and then let it idle for a second or two before shutting down. It should start with no problem. As a beginner I had little confidence in Stihls and always told myself to go with an easier starting brand. But as I gained experienc e I have come to realize that Stihls are the best most powerful chainsaw out there, by far. Sooooo, don't give up. Get used to the hard pull starts. That's a Stihl trademark. So is the cover nuts coming loose and falling off. They flood. Stihl knows this, but chooses to either ignore the problem, deny there is one, or (dumbest of all) recommends pulling the starter cord about 20 times to relieve the flooding after which they say the saw should start. No. Give it a rest, and take a spare saw with you if you must. Stihls are the best saw out there. You can get easier starters, Huskys or Echos, but they will let you down performance wise. In short, get to know your Stihl. Eventually you'll find it's a good friend that will take care of you if you take care of it.
Bought this same saw last year. Left it over winter with the Stihl premium fuel in it. I cannot get it to start for anything!! It only has like 15 minutes of run time on it.
When you store the saw you should run the saw with some fuel stabilizer in the gas until its warm. Drain the tank on the saw and run it again until it runs out of fuel.
Good to store.
Refuel when you start using it again and you should be good to go.
Dont leave gas in it, if you do, drain it before you use it and put fresh stuff in.
I have an MS 250 with low hours on it and was using it one day, I had just made an easy cut, and was holding the saw, and while it was idling, I heard a clanging bumbling noise from it and it quit running,.. the crankshaft wrung off right below the flywheel,.... On a facebook chainsaw site where I posted this happening I was told the MS 250 had a problem with the shaft wringing off like mine did,...
My ms250 has been very hard to pull the rope since day one. This saw needs a pressure relief to make it easier to crank
Ms 250 staring procedure is the same with every stihl chainsaw with conventional carburetor! I have come across many videos on UA-cam from people who demonstrate how to start a chainsaw and they donut wrong! Be careful out there! Ms 250 is a great homeowner saw that with proper service and usage will last a lifetime! I own the Ms230 who is same block and engine with the 250! I own also an ms 290! Both oiling correct , and the 290feature an adjustable oiler, to regulate the oil flow at your needs
So i cut wood for a living had 260 hours on my ms 250 before I got another one. If you flood it you have too pull the plug out and pull the cord about 100 times to dry it out. But that saw I know like the back of my hand and has been nothing but amazing!!! ALWAYS CUTS!! I love the ms250!!!
you do not have to pull it 100 times. you dont even have to pull the plug if you're willing to pull that much. you just need to have the throttle wide open while you pull.
The pre mix fuel is the best way to go none of my trimmers blowers or saws have seen a mechanic so far it’s been 4+ years they all still run like new
i had same issue, used for 15 min, left it for 3 mo, went to use it again started right up then would not start the very next day, i use VP ethanol free fuel, had to dissasemble and put fuel in carb and finally got it running
The way I adjust chains. I tighten the adjuster until when I pick up the chain on the topside fof the bar I can see the chain move upwards a slight bit on the bottom side of the bar. ❤
Its not a blade it's a chain an bar, you should lift that bar while tightening that chain .
I got this saw and never had any of these problems in six years
I have had nothing but trouble with this saw first time using it the magneto went bad. Got it back from shop then the clutch went totally out
I believe the first power head I brought home and died after 10 minutes of use was spark/magneto as well. I didn't diagnose it since it was new and I didn't feel as though it was my problem to solve. I returned it. The new saw has been great. But the point is these issues shouldn't have happened in the first place. Be prepared for other comments blaming you for all your saw-problems. Some (most?) of the guys who watch the video have their identities tied to the Stihl brand. It's like a marriage. My video and your comment are like we're both hitting on their wives and they comment proportionate to that. Lol...
My MS 250/18" bar is 11 years old. Just last month I had to clean the carb and replace the pump/diaphragm . This saw has cut nothing but 18" up to 38" dead red oak and hickory and even black jack oak = high chain and bar wear. Lots of dust cutting seasoned hard woods. The saw is on its second sprocket. I buy two chains at a time and its on the 3rd set and about to wear the 2nd bar out. I use sthil fuel lube and a synthetic chain lube.
I flooded the saw right out of the box. Back to the shop where I bought it. I walked in with it and before I could say anything he says you flooded it. Common issue as I was used to cranking full choke till it burbled...then fast idle and crank. This 250 pulls twice on full choke...then flip the lever to fast idle and it starts the 2nd or 3rd pull.
I've used several chainsaw brands and the flip lever is the best I've found. Never have to look where the lever is . On a restart just flip the lever down to full choke and then up one notch....do it by feel. Great idea.
Am going to buy one which gas do you use? I dont wanna fk the engine
@@toronjillo2 In colder months I use E10 or all gas. I don't mix but 1/2 gal at a time so gas is fresh. As seasons warm like now at 95+ plus degrees I use 100 % gas and Stihl lube in any gas.
@@barnhooty2956 cool am asking cuz i heard ethanol is bad for it
@@toronjillo2 stihl says E10 is ok in my owners manual
@@barnhooty2956 ok
All common issues the second time around, fuel pick up is weighted and a new line a bit stiff, about your bar, keep that groove clean and your oiler holes clean etc. over oiling? that is good and will help if you are in pitchy wood, most Stihls oil well, but when they do not, you have big trouble, so check manual and change filters when needed. Think she will be good for many years. BTW you can buy non ethanol gas from many stations and use the Stihl oil to mix gas for working, the can stuff is good for long storage though. Expensive stuff. Nice saw.
Agree with all of your comments and observations. Because the first power head failed I didn't trust the saw and was just waiting for the next failure in the second power head....and got it. To recap: a power head failure in the first saw, fuel starvation, slinging the chain, a lot of oil, hard start. These were not endearing experiences.
That having been said I've put quite a bit more time in with it and can honestly say fuel delivery is resolved, it doesn't (or hasn't) slung the chain, oil delivery seems appropriate, and it's a joy to start when done as described in the vid - starts every time and the robustness seems appropriate for the price point. The more it's used the better it gets. Stihl and I just had a bad first date but we've worked out the kinks in our marriage.
Thanks for commenting.
Of course, bad first date but now I expect a good marriage because miss Stihl she does pretty good lol The saw will last for years if you take care of it. Also here on you tube you may find lots of tips, that model is very popular.
Older dude was standing nearby when I bought the saw - he couldn't help but comment: "yer gonna love that saw!" I was digging it. LOL.
Older dude he knows, some green horn would advice something to heavy and expensive Lol, those little saws have the power and are comfortable to use. I used big saws because I needed them etc, but I enjoy picking up my little MS170 and doing some yard work. I judge a saw by how it performs not because it is a pro or not a pro model. Those home owner saws have stood up to pro duty in the hands of many poor boys getting pulp or heating homes. That old dude got her figgered out fine. Enjoy your new saw, God bless.
I bought a bundle of stihl saws dirt cheap, all of ehich work and one of which is an ms250 with ergo start. My issue with it is that it smokes like crazy when running and I can't figure out why, the gas mixture is correct, rings are good it starts easily, carb was pretty clean.
Oil in the muffler or the carb is set too rich. Remove the muffler and flush it to get the oil out. If not the problem, the carb might be set too rich. Readjustment is needed.
your saw might not be getting set-up right at the dealership and for the oil I find 2 tanks of has to one tank of oil is about the norm. We got a ms 290 after Rita and cleaned up 6 acres of woods then again for ike and cut 2 cords of wood every year till just the other day my nephew mixed the wrong mix in it and burnt it up I'm thinking about the 250 this time
Raymond Simpson Thanks for watching Raymond. I picked up this MS291 this weekend and did a bench top comparison with the MS250. Although I had problems to start with they’ve work themselves out and I talked about that in the new vid. You can check it out here: ua-cam.com/video/QKsFgNDeI3U/v-deo.html
Stihl makes excellent "yellow tang" chains for my Homelite Super XL.
How's the MS250 running a year later? If you have any questions about it I work on Stihl products for a living and own a MS250 myself.
Barry The Chopper Excellent, I ran it the day before yesterday to clean up a tree 🙂
Stihl saws are easy to flood. Pull it a couple of pulls in the cold start position and push it up to half choke. When it starts let it run from 15 to 30 seconds on half choke (warm start) and then blip to idle. Let idle for five minutes before using. If you think you have flooded it - put it in the run position and pull it over 10 times before putting it in the half choke position and pulling it until it starts.
hey man the oiler thing is truly not a flaw the gaskets and diaphragm are new and it all resolves itself
I use non ethanol 92 oct. with stabil mixed in
Set to full choke pull until it hits take choke off and let it rip have the same saw and worked at a Stihl dealer for a while
The 250 isa pita to start if you do not know it idiosyncrasies. I listen for rollover,but that is not the only indicator as to when you should push it up to half choke. Another is it will yank back. When it does this, push it up to half choke before you pull it, again. Usually when you get a bar impacted with saw dust is because you are not running the saw wide open in the cut. Saws are made to operate at idle orWFO. It is good that you let your saw warm up. I let all saws run for five minutes at idle before I use them. When I crack a gas or bar oil cap, I refill them.I seldom ever use the chain break, unless I am letting them idle, unattended. I like Moto Mix but it is to pricy for me. I mi my own with premium non ethanol gas and Stihl Ultra. I also add one ounce of fuel stabilizer to each gallon of gas. I run 50:1 in everything I own. If the equipment proscribes 40:1, I just add an extra cap full of oil in its tank before I fill it with 50:1. I do not keep two versions of fuel in my shop.
My ms 250 the next day I flooded it, pulled the plug out dried it and pulled it over a few times and then put the plug in. Set the saw on run and it didn't start. Put it on the shelf and next day put the level down on run pulled it and it started. I let it run for a spell. Checked the fluids ran it again shut it off and the whole time it sat it leaked bar oil. Off to the dealer and they had it a week and said the cap was leaking. I said it looks as though it leaks on the bottom and not the cap. They said they put a dye in the oil and it was coming from the cap. They said they were done doing anything with the saw. I wish I had never bought it. So took it home dumped out the bar oil and it has sat on a shelf for about a year now. If i need to use a chainsaw i use my 170 and it can do anything i give it. Years ago i bought a brand new stihl chainsaw and it was a bigger one that was easier to pull but for the life of me can't remember the model. I wish I had kept that saw and when I sold it, i had only used it one time.
i got the ms 170 use the hp ultra, no problem so far, use good gasoling, ive left it for a few months, maybe around the 3 months every now and then, try to use it more often than that, but havn't really had any issues with it. good thing that around here its easy to get ethanol free fuel.
So this video is from 2 years ago how do you feel about the MS250 now? Ask because my wife just bought me one haven’t had a chance to use it yet.
Well congratulations. My thoughts are mixed. The saw is absolutely great, balanced, capable, and I'm sure you'll enjoy it. However, like most two strokes (my saws, string trimmer, 150hp boat engine, etc.) they seems to all need some familiarity to get them started and run them with minimal fuss. Once the saw broke in and this familiarity thing was old news it's been great. My problem is what I had to go through to get the initial problems fixed - remember I had to have the power head replaced after 10 minutes of run time. That's a problem that's hard to ignore.
@@dirtyshirtinfo thanks for replying I'm hoping to get out this weekend to cut up some firewood I got the saw yesterday for my birthday which is today. I've started it and ran it in the garage a couple times but haven't cut any wood with it yet I'm excited to get out and use it.
Can we cat trees horizontal and vertical way???
hey man the vent thing in the clutch cover is not a vent they empty out these things so that you get full contact with the bar the same way a three legged stool never rocks and a four legged one will find a way to
Thanks for the perspective!
The fact that they gave you a new powerhead is disturbing. What was wrong wit the other one? Glad that you found a technique that works for you. I am still trying to get mine started. I was able to get it to run after about 30 mins of trying on my first day of owning it. Cut some wood it ran great. Even did some hot restarts no trouble. Let it sit for a couple hours get it cold... well I am still trying to get it started. Good video and info.
Thomas H H After they fiddled with the first powerhead for an hour or more then offered the new powerhead, I grabbed it an ran no questions asked. I would bet your saw is overchoked and flooding. Once you do get it running, then it grows cold, I would try one or two pulls with choke on then switch it off no matter what and try and start it with the switch set to run. These saws just act differently than any other 2 cycle I’ve ever owned.
@@dirtyshirtinfo I have pulled the plug and cleared any fuel that was in there. (nothing came out plug was not wet. ). Go back to the sequence anti still won start. I give up. Taking it back tomorrow try to calm express my discontent.
Thomas H H Sorry to hear that. I’m sure you’ve seen the good press the Husqvarnas get - but there are far fewer dealers near me. That may be a small price to pay for a saw that starts.
dirtyshirtinfo if
You can’t handle
A stihl you won’t know what to do with a husky.
Well give it a chance and if it keep screwing up and you get aggravated with it you can allways move up to a husky or a echo less prestigious but less expensive for about the same HP.
I like the 20 inch 50 cc craftsman chainsaw . Put a new country line bar and chain and it’s a monster
he is 100% correct on starting
push the primer bulb 3 or 4 times turn the choke on dont hold the trigger down, give it a pull then turn the choke off dont hold the trigger down pull it again and it will start right up, every stihl i have owned, string trimmer, leaf blowers, saws all have started using that method
I've got this model and have had problems also. The main problem with all small engines in this day is the fuel. Don't use gas from the pump w/ethynol! It tears up small engine parts! They should do away w/ ethynol! The fuel producers should be sued for all the problems they've caused anybody that mows their yard, cuts wood or uses any small engine equipment due to the headaches they have caused each and everyone of them.!
Flooding a Stihl saw is easy if you do not listen to it, as you start it. When cold, put it in full choke and pull it smartly, until you hear it roll over, attempt to start but not start, and immediately after it rolls over, push the control lever up one notch and pull until it runs. I put steel dogs on all of my saws. It takes just a few minutes to put them on and they are cheap. You got chips under the chain because you were not hitting the wood with the chain spinning or a improperly adjusted chain tension. New chains stretch and can get loose The first thing I check is gas, bar oil and chain tension. I can tell from you comments you are a novice user. The gas filter should be in the bottom of the gas tank. I seldom ever use the chain break. I grew up without one, so it being there or not there is in material.I mix my own two cycle with Premium, non ethanol, gas. Stihl ultra oil is the filthiest oil in the world. I burn 50:1 in everything but I use a JASO FD oil. My 37 year old Poulan S25DA runs it fine and it was a 40:1 saw when it was built.
Good information. Thank you.
I have ms250 for years. 100% never had no prolbem. Starts 3 pulls every time
Same
Mine too. Great saw it’s been my go to for firewood for the last four years, be cut maybe a hundred cords with it and haven’t been kind to the saw, it’s a beast of a saw for the price, keep
It sharp and clean and it’ll cut anything
I burp mine on full choke then hold the throttle open and it fires up easily
I use ethanol gas in nothing but my cars. All two and four cycle engines are fed premium, non ethanol gas. I pay more for it but it gives me no carb issues. I break in new saws with Stihl Moto Mix.
I have owned my ms250 for 4 years and have had no problems. Operators are the problem
What gage bar is it
1.6mm
I RATHER NOT COMMENT !! GOOD LUCK.
I have a Stihl MS-250 saw and hate it because it is so difficult to crank and the repair shop people was able to finally crank it. When I got it home each time I could not crank it except for a few times to test it and when trying to do it again it would not crank. I have a Poulan Pro saw which has the same problems and I ended up buying a battery saw from Poulan and it works just fine and cranks each time. I also have an older Poulan which was the first saw I owned and it gave me a long service life and now needs some service and it may run perfect again.
Sounds like you have a problem with the retailer not the saw. Unless you purchased it in a box it sounds like the retailer did a shoddy assembly and tune. And they did not instruct you on how to start it properly. For instance, pushing the choke to the bottom is the primer and should only be used at first started up (no more than 2 to 3 pulls or you will flood the engine) unless you have run out of fuel .
What is the opposite of a fanboy called?
It’s a “STIHL” thing. You just have to follow the starting procedure to a T.
thyey are bad about flooding you need to pull the chord 2or 3 times before you put it in choke .Once flooded you take plug out take it off choke and turn saw over and pull the chord a few times to get gas out
I find it irritating the way this guy has no idea what he’s talking about yet still making videos bashing this saw.. he clearly wanted an oil-less electric chainsaw with the torque of a Tesla... yet bought an ms 250
These saws are junk.The krauts made good Stihls.These American plastic boat anchors don't measure up.
I have never had any starting issues with my MS250C except when I didn't prime it. I know exactly where the switch is all of the time so I don't know where you are going with your switch discussion. I may have a solution for your sawdust jamming the bar/chain if you haven't rectified that yet: a sharp chain will make bigger chips and little dust. Sharpening a chain with a round file is easier than any skill you could learn. Your gas thing...well, you should use premium fuel for all small engines - no ethanol. I only aquire a little when I need it. I may go to premixed when I run out of Stihl oil, but for now, I will still mix. It's not really 'brand envy' ...just look at people who work in the woods - not one using a Poulan.
Good video, informative and well done. You should have said what you paid so other people know what a fair price is.
Harry Wernsman Regular price was $350 and I paid $300. Throw in 8.25% tax, bar oil, synthetic gas, spare chain, and I was in for about $370 best I recall. After resolving some of the issues the saw is very reliable and fun to operate. The weight is in the butter zone, just right. My 291 is on the heavy side.
From the way your talking bout the saw maybe you should stick with using a sawzaw
You’re new here. From the way you leave stupid comments maybe you should move to Facebook.
It sounds like you have more of an issue with the hardware store than you do the saw, maybe you should do a video bashing Ace hardware instead of Stihl and keep learning how to actually use the saw.
Thanks for watching Dick, I mean Scott. Stihl will do fine as long as people will pay to buy junk that doesn’t work. The saw came from a Stihl dealer and the Stihl rep happened to be making his rounds when I returned the saw. He replaced the powerhead. Watch the video again with the sound turned on. 🖕
I bought one and it did not oil at all !! Took it back and they wanted to work on it but I said to just keep it and wanted to buy the Farm Boss with 20 in. bar . An upgrade right ? They only had one Farm Boss and it had an 18 in. bar on it . Well I said put a 20 in. bar and chain on it and I would buy it . The guy looks at me and says they will not let them do that !! Seriously ? So I said I want my money back and I will go somewhere else .
When you cut wood it,s going to get saw dust
An it's the owners job to clean it after every use before storing it
U just need 2 go back to whatever brand saw u used before! Now that you've ran Stihl's name through the mud. Also it is your responsibility to inspect your equipment each and every time u put it 2 work!!!
Bought a new 250, ran great first time has bnot wanted to start since. Same with a Stihl 170. These things are crap. Once running fine but a poulon at least starts. I have tried multiple modifications and on the 170 even the dealer cant get it to start.
Wow dude....maybe you should stick to electric tools.
Don Reimer If this is how their brand new new saws are delivered maybe everyone should.
dirtyshirtinfo yes, if all of their saws are delivered to morons all Of the morons should start buying electric saws.
I have this saw and never had any problems. 99% of the time it’s operator error.
Ms250’s just love to flood. I never pull them over in full choke over seldom pulls, before pushing them up to half choke. Every saw that I have starts a little differently, so you must know your saw. Most of my saws are Pro saws but they are no different than clamshell saws. My guess your saw is not tuned properly. All saws find a way to get the sprocket cover dirty and covered with oil. There is no such thing as a saw that uses to much oil. To much is better than not enough. I never trust dealers to set up my saws. I do it myself, that way I know it is done correctly. Chain tension the same way. I seldom if ever use the chain break. I grew up without them and am not dumb enough to get myself in a fix where they are needed. I mix my own two cycle gas. I do not use ethanol gas. I use premium non ethanol gas in everything two cycle or four cycle, except cars. My two cycle is stabilized for two years.
Just put an American Made Carb on the Saw it will run. With that said if you need to Cut Wood Use a Husky! But make SURE it was made in Sweden!!!
You don't have Stihl chainsaw problems you have Saw Shop problems can you turn the joke all the way on pull it twice turn the choke all the way off pull it the third time it fires up and runs you peel its ears back and go to Cottonwood if you're getting sawdust stuck in your clutch area it's because your chain is not sharp enough if you're not going to run it for at least a week drain the gas out of it and run it dry when you cut sideways with a saw you always cut with the pull rope up and put a 2-foot bar on it it'll pull it
Sounds like you need to learn how to start a Stihl, have that saw,20 years old, never flooded
I learned that I needed to throw it in the garbage so that's what I did and bought a Husqvarna. Runs like a dream. I have a short video showing me smashing the Stihl POS on a cement slab. Check it out....
A bottle of fuel stabilizer is much less expensive . Ask someone that logs for a living what they think of that fuel instead of someone that is selling it . Just sayin .
everything you said is True about the 250 I have two. I wont again. The 170 16" bar. works well but small. Husky rancher is great. I'll bump from the 250 stihl to a stihl 20" bar. I not as stong as I use to be. lol
15 dollars a gallon of gas, because the 4 dollar a gallon gas is crap. It time to improve the electrical motor.
Sounds like the dealer mechanic is incompetent ..
For the gas problem you said it yourself "whatever oil you can find" - stop using shit oil and you wont have problems with your fuel, 40 to 45:1 ratio, not 50.
learn the saw and get advice from your mech if you have questions. there is nothing wrong with the saw..
I have one of these.This is the worst expensive tool I've ever owned.It floods easily,it's hard to pull when it floods.I have broken the pull rope several times..The pull handle is flimsy and if you try to knot the pull rope it will just pull through..After much starting difficulty the PLASTIC pawl in the recoil broke and rendered the saw useless.I hate this saw.I never had a Stihl before I bought it.I was tired of Poulan's and other cheap saws that last 2 seasons.I paid a lot for this POS from Ace hardware.They ought to make this saw heavier so it could be used as a boat anchor.It's good for aught else.And you're instructed to start it by placing it in the ground and putting your toe into the stirrup. Not enough room for a child's foot with a boot on.What junk!