The use of classic chainsaws in harvesting firewood, sawing down trees, cleaning summer cottages and in construction activities is still relevant today. Another thing is that the design of the unit is changing, the quality of the materials used is increasing and new technologies are being introduced. And as before, the developers are faced with the task of combining several qualities of the tool that are very significant for the user. It's about maneuverability, high power and safety. It would seem that these are mutually exclusive properties, but the MS 180 Stihl chainsaw from German designers has seriously approached the standard - in any case, compared to competitors. Of course, it also has disadvantages that users face in different areas of operation. To evaluate the model from different angles, you should familiarize yourself with it.
Arrangement and design
The chainsaw is designed for domestic use, so its differences include compactness and ease of use. At the same time, the equipment is equipped with an IntelliCarb carburetor and compensator, which makes it possible to optimize the performance of the saw. For the convenience of the owner, the creatorsprovided the unit with a translucent and capacious fuel tank. The model comes in two versions. For simple garden work, the Stihl MS 180 14 '' chainsaw is more suitable, the bar length of which is 35 cm. The second version, at 16 inches, provides a 40 cm cut and can be used in construction and logging. In terms of power, both options are comparable.
Features of functionality include the possibility of automatic lubrication. In addition, for safety reasons, the manufacturer has equipped the chain with an inertial brake. This means that in the process of work, the risks of losing control over the tool are minimized. Also, a system with an anti-vibration effect works for ergonomics and safety. Thanks to this addition, the MS 180 Stihl chainsaw, even in the hands of an inexperienced user, will help to cope with labor-intensive tasks without serious strain on the muscles.
Specifications
Based on official figures, the model is more likely to be included in the entry-level segment in terms of its capabilities. Despite this, the combination of design features and good power slightly raises the class of the tool. The technical characteristics of this chainsaw can be represented as follows:
- Power - 2 liters. with., which corresponds to 1.5 kW.
- The volume of the power unit is 31.8 cm3.
- Piston stroke - 2.8 cm.
- Tire length - in the initial modification 35 cm, in the middle - 40 cm.
- Oil tank capacity 145cm3.
- Chain pitch - 9.3 mm.
- Weight - 3.9 kg.
It may not be worth evaluating these parameters with competitors, since different models may have different materials and design solutions. However, the cost can be a sure indicator of the importance of the characteristics that the Stihl MS 180 chainsaw has. The price in the initial version with a cut length of 35 cm is 13 thousand rubles, and the older version is available for 16 thousand rubles.
Additional equipment
The chainsaw is good in that it is well provided with useful options in the basic configuration. But additions will not be superfluous. The most effective application is considered to be fast chain tensioning, which is implemented by a fairly simple system. The operator needs to loosen the sprocket cover, and then tension it using the adjusting wheel. There is also a simple tension in the side of the chain. The operation is also performed through the sprocket cover. These systems are useful in that the MS 180 Stihl chainsaw is quickly and easily adjusted, but not by the owner's hands, but by a convenient mechanism. Another addition is provided to increase comfort during the operation of the model. The fact is that the launch of two-stroke engines in such a technique is often accompanied by jerky forces, loading the joints and muscles. To minimize the undesirable effect, the Stihl designers have provided the ElastoStart device. The principle of its operation lies in the damping function, that is, the starting element in the handle takes on all the shocks, suppressing excess energy.
Operating recommendations
The first time after purchasing the saw, you should take measures for the so-called running-in mechanisms. You can work with the tool, but only without using the power limit. This period should continue until the third refueling. There are also rules for ensuring the running-in of individual components. For example, a new chain for a Stihl MS 180 chainsaw should be tightened more often and as strongly as possible during the first time of operation. Also, after each session of work, you should leave the engine in idle mode for several minutes. It is better not to touch the heated chain after work, and when it cools down, loosen the tension.
Maintenance
Chainsaw prevention involves three jobs. This is a check of the functioning of devices, an assessment of the quality of fixing parts and the tightness of the structure, as well as cleaning. The control and shift levers, the carburetor, as well as the chain brake and the machine as a whole, must be regularly monitored for functioning. The quality of fastening should be checked with special care at the locations of splines and spark plugs. You should also carefully approach the cleaning of the containers supplied with the Stihl MS 180 chainsaw. The instruction, in particular, recommends monitoring the condition of the fuel tank, oil compartment and checking the air filter. The maintenance intervals must be determined according to the nature of the operation. For example, if a tool is used daily, it should be inspected after each working session. If it comes to checking or cleaning the fuel tank, then you can perform this procedure every month, subject to regular use.
Appliance Repair
The tool has a high working resource, but it is not immune from malfunctions. The manufacturer recommends initially preparing for normal wear of the following parts: saw chain, drive elements, cylinders, spark plug, starting mechanism, damping device. With careful maintenance and timely sharpening, you can maintain the maximum performance that the Stihl MS 180 chainsaw has. Repairs, which sooner or later will become a necessity, can be done independently, but with some limitations. For example, the user can replace the saw chain catcher and elements of the anti-vibration system on their own.
Positive feedback
Such opinions about this model mainly note the ergonomics and quality of sawing. Compactness, maneuverability and overall ease of use are the main advantages that the Stihl MS 180 chainsaw has. Reviews, by the way, recommend that beginners become more familiar with the anti-vibration system, quick tension mechanisms and other proprietary additions. It is with their help that users achieve good results in the process of work. Despite its small size, the chainsaw shows decent performance. Perhaps such opinions are connected with the thoughtful design of the chain mechanism, which makes it easy to cope with any tree.
Negative reviews
Criticism of this model mainly refers to the rapid wear of parts and high fuel consumption. For example, the owners point out that the ear of the carburetor is wiped through during operation, and the damper in the cylinder cover goes out of working condition in the shortest possible time. Users also emphasize the low working life of plastic parts, which are abundantly supplied with the Stihl MS 180 chainsaw. The price is 13-16 thousand rubles. also does not add to the attractiveness of the unit. However, some of the shortcomings are typical for other chainsaws of this class. Unfortunately, in this case, you have to pay for the convenience and functionality of the quality of the work items.
Conclusion
Russian builders involved in the construction of wooden houses are well acquainted with the Stihl brand. The company is associated by most of the users of its equipment with reliability and high performance. But this applies to massive units with increased power up to 9 liters. with. In turn, the MS 180 Stihl chainsaw is positioned as a convenient tool for domestic needs. That is, with its help, you can take care of the garden, perform repairs with wood, cut firewood, etc. The design and set of options are completely sharpened to ensure the convenience of a non-professional user. And the owners put these qualities in the first place in the list of advantages.models. However, for jobs that require endurance and reliability, this option is not suitable.
