For arborists relying on Stihl’s high-performance professional chainsaws, M-Tronic technology has streamlined day-to-day tasks, supporting productivity, reducing downtime, and making work in nature easier.
Paul Hicks, marketing and product manager at Stihl GB, explains the benefits of the M-Tronic engine management system and how forestry professionals can reset the system, in a few simple steps, to maintain an optimum performance.
What is STIHL M-Tronic technology?
Stihl M-Tronic is an engine management system that automatically adapts the ignition timing and fuel metering in chainsaws to accommodate for changes in fuel quality, altitude and engine temperature. As a result, the technology delivers easy starting, constant optimum power, and faster acceleration in professional chainsaws.
The system is powered by a second magnet on the flywheel and controlled by a microprocessor present in the ignition module (or in this case, control module). It’s easy to know if a chainsaw features M-Tronic, as the control lever will feature a black triangle instead of a choke.
What are the benefits of STIHL M-Tronic?
The key benefits of M-Tronic technology for arborists and forestry professionals are:
· Automatic engine management – continuously adjusting ignition timing and fuel metering to optimise performance in changing conditions
· Consistent power output – offering reliable power at different temperatures and altitudes for predictable cutting results
· Faster starts – supporting dependable starting and reducing the need for manual adjustments
· Optimised acceleration – providing a rapid throttle response for efficient cutting
· Improved fuel efficiency – delivering only the fuel required for the operating conditions, without compromising output
· Reduced maintenance – requiring fewer manual adjustments which contributes to reduced servicing needs
When to reset a STIHL M-Tronic machine?
There are some instances when the STIHL M-Tronic engine management system needs to be reset to maintain optimum performance.
This usually follows:
· Changing of the solenoid valve
· Replacement or cleaning of the carburettor
· Replacement of an old fuel filter
Additionally, if a chainsaw is not running as expected, it is worth following the reset steps.
Which method should be used for resetting STIHL M-Tronic?
There are two routes to resetting a STIHL machine with M-Tronic technology, depending on the version of M-Tronic the machine has.
· Method one is used for machines with STIHL M-Tronic technology at 2.0 or lower
· Method two is used for machines with STIHL M-Tronic technology at 2.1 or higher
Machines with M-Tronic 2.1 or higher will have ‘M2.1’ or ‘M3.0’ marked on the C-E label. Older versions (2.0 or lower) will not show this marking.
How to set STIHL M-Tronic
Forestry professionals must wear appropriate PPE when using a chainsaw, even during an M-Tronic reset.
Method one: for M-Tronic 2.0 or lower
· Step 1: Remove the machine’s scabbard and ensure the chain brake is on
· Step 2: Put the machine in the ▲ Cold start position
· Step 3: Start the machine and run it in the ▲ Cold start position for at least 90 seconds
· Step 4: Do not touch the throttle or accelerate the chainsaw during this time
· Step 5: Turn the machine off after 90 seconds
· Step 6: The M-Tronic engine management system is now reset, and the machine is ready to use
Method two: for M-Tronic technology at 2.1 or higher
· Step 1: Remove the machine’s scabbard and ensure the chain brake is on
· Step 2: Put the machine in the ▲ Cold start position
· Step 3: Start the machine and run it in the ▲ Cold start position for at least 30 seconds, but no longer than 60 seconds
· Step 4: Do not touch the throttle or accelerate the chainsaw during this time
· Step 5: Turn off the chain brake
· Step 6: Squeeze the throttle fully for at least 30 seconds
· Step 7: Be aware that the engine speed will vary during this process
· Step 8: When the speed drops noticeably, release the throttle
· Step 9: When the engine is back to idle speed, put the chain brake on and switch the machine off
· Step 10: The M-Tronic engine management system is now reset, and the machine is ready to use
Forestry professionals are advised to follow the instructions in their chainsaw’s user manual for the correct resetting procedure. Instruction manuals can be found on the Stihl GB website. A visual guide for resetting Stihl M-Tronic machines can be found on Stihl GB’s YouTube channel.
STIHL AT 100
This year, Stihl celebrates its 100th anniversary. Since 1926, Stihl has defined the global standard for battery and petrol-powered forestry, landscaping, and residential gardening equipment for professional and domestic users.
For more information on Stihl products, visit www.stihl.co.uk or contact your nearest Stihl approved dealer.
