Stihl Easy2Start / Quick Adjuster Models

[Old Geezer]

I would like some input from owners of saws with these features. If you had to do all over would you buy a saw with the same features again? I'm really not concerned about starting a small saw but I'm thinking the quick adjuster for the chain might be nice. How much extra work does it create when you change out chains or flip the bar? I'm looking at the MS 250 and trying to decide if I want to spend the extra bucks for the MS 250 C-BE.

 

[JPP]

I was in the same situation as you last year.
I decided AGAINST getting the chain adjust and easy start.
My friend has the quick adjust and it broke the first month he had his saw.
They start pretty easy without the EZ start, although they do start better with the EZ start.

The dealer even told me these features are a waste of money.
He also said flipping bars and replacing chains takes more time with the adjustable chain feature.

But it is all personal preference, some people like these features.

 

[93_ChargedCobra]

I cant say for the quick adjuster as I didnt even consider it, but the ez 2 start I also decided against. Dealer told me if you dont have a problem starting a saw you probably wont like it cause your not attached directly to the crankshaft. Now for weak person, mainly small women or someone with an injury it may be ok.

 

[davefr]

The quick adjuster is OK on a small saw like my MS180C. However as long as you can adjust the chain from the side of the cover it's almost as easy.

I've heard bad things about quick start.

The bottom line is that I'd tend to avoid both of these "features".

 

[musher]

I have one with the quick adjust, and I'd probably pass on it next time I have the choice. It eliminates the need for the scrench to adjust the chain, but I find it easier to turn the screw than to push the little adjuster wheel, especially when the saw is a little gummed up with wood chips.

Changing out the bar (or flipping it) requires you to unscrew the adjustment 'gear' from the bar, and re-attach it on the other side. It takes a little longer, but it isn't a huge deal.

 

[361kid]

I have an MS270 with the quick adjust and it's not as bad as everyone makes it to be. The only complaint I have is when the adjuster gets full of sawdust and oil and it becomes difficult to turn. I wouldn't buy one again, but it's all about personal preference.

 

[fishhuntcutwood]

I guess my question is, "How hard is it to adjust the chain tension with conventional means?" It's not. The quick adjust deal may work, but it takes more time to flip the bar, which is something you should do.

I say skip it. JMO.

Jeff

 

[Lakeside53]

The "Easy Start" is PITA. The only thing "easy" about it is that it's real easy to flood the saw (you can't hear it "pop" 'cos often it doesn't!), and then it's a real pain to get it started (can't pull it over fast enough). I will not sell one to a customer unless they have a physical disability that prevents "normal" starting techniques.

Every couple of weeks some guy comes back to the store with an "easy start" that won't run. I take them out back, show them the right way, and then wail on it to get it to run and clear the flood.

...Apart from this, and the 191T, I like Stihl...

 

[McCartman]

I had the quick adjust chain on my MS180. I would not pay extra for the feature. If it was a no cost add-on, I might take it. As someone has already said, chips can get in the gears and cause difficulty adjusting the chain. I'd have to say that it doesn't take any extra time changing a chain, but definately is more time consuming and difficult flipping the bar over.

I was always a little leary of breaking the big plastic "wheel", or whatever it's called, that tightens the side cover down to hold the bar in place. I'm sure it is some pretty tough plastic, but it just feels flimsy.

Can't comment on the easy start - never had one with that feature.

 

[htspecialist]

I just bought an MS250 without the ez start and ez tensioner and am glad I did. My dealer talked me out of and he was right. The saw starts up quite nicely. I like the manual side tension adjustment better. No extra steps when taking the bar off. The extra goodies add unneeded weight to the machine. Keep the $40 or $50 and buy some extra chains, files, kits, etc.

 

[buck futter]

my 025 doesn't have it, but it is very easy to start. I just pull the cord until I have a little compression and give it a lazy tug. No, the lazy tug isn't something dirty or the latest dance move..

I give Stihl high marks for their manual chain tightening system,its the easiest to use. Don't get the easy start unless you are weakened for some reason, if that is the case you would be better off with the 180 which is a little less of a handfull

Buck

 

[SawTroll]

Nothing much to add here, but I don't think anyone mentioned that the easy-2-start adds an extra halv pound or so to the weight.

Avoid both features if you are not sure that you want them. Both are potensial PITAs, without solving any real problems for most users.

 

[Butch(OH)]

We have the quick chain adjust on the 210C. It works well, we have had zero problems with it. It wouldnt sway a saw purchase decision but I can see where it would be good for Joe homeowner who saws twice a year. As with the easy start system one must remember these things are not aimed at people whos job is saws or other serious users. It should suprize no one that they are for the most part laughed at on this board along with any saw that is not absolutly top of the line.