In this video, we show you how to replace the recoil rope on a Stihl MS180.

Health & Safety Warning - Please ensure that you have safely prepared the machine and workspace. If you are unsure about any aspect of the task please seek professional advice.

Transcript

Today, we're going to change the Starter Rope on a Stihl MS180 Chainsaw. Using a torx spanner, remove the screw holding the handle in place using a torx spanner. You will need to lift the hand guard out of it's position. Then unscrew and fully remove the fuel filler & oil filler caps. It would be a good idea to do this repair when the tanks are empty. Then remove the three remaining torx screws holding the recoil assembly on. This will release the recoil assembly. Remember to remove the model plate if you are not replacing it, this can be attached to your new recoil assembly. Pull the recoil to it's maximum length, and stop it from returning by holding the pulley. Once at maximum length, feed the pulley back round the other way to loosen it and release the tension. Now the tension has released use pliers to remove the R Clip, washer and pawl. Once these are you can completely remove the pulley. Untie the knot at the end of the recoil rope, as a tip you can use pliers to help. Once that's released completely detach from the recoil and starter handle. Feed your new starter rope through the top of the starter handle. Tie a tight knot at the top of the handle so it doesn't feed all the way through. Make sure this is secure. Feed the rope through the hole at the top of the recoil assembly. Next, feed the rope through the side of the pulley until it reaches the hole in the middle, then pull through the hole. Once through, tie another tight knot to hold the rope in place. Tuck the excess rope in, and make sure it's tight. Feed the rope clockwise around the pulley approximately three times and seat back in the assembly. Seat the pawl and the washer making sure they're seated correctly. Using the pliers, grip the R clip and fix back into position over the washer. Once they're secure force the rope clockwise around the pulley three times to create tension for the recoil. Check that the recoil has enough tension by pulling it. You may need to further tighten the rope. After you have placed the recoil assembly on to your machine check that the pulley is free, with tension. Place the hand guard back into its position, and secure with the screw. Then fix the three remaining screws back onto the recoil assembly. Now screw the fuel fillers caps back into the machine. That's how you change the Starter Rope on a Stihl MS180.

Parts

Parts and tools included in the MS180 Engine how-to video.

• Plastic Recoil Handle Grip/Starter - 3400
• Rope Rotor - 1123 195 0400
• Starter Rope - 4137 195 8200
• Recoil Assembly - 725 019
• 13/19mm Combination Plug/Bolt Spanner - 902 1361
• Non Genuine Torx Wrench/Plug Spanner (13mm and 19mm) - 410 250