IMPORTANT SAFETY RECALL
NOTICE TO STIHL CUSTOMERS

December 23, 2010

In cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, STIHL Incorporated is recalling those model MS 361 C chain saw powerheads that are equipped with a rear-handle-activated chain braking system (referred to in some product literature as the MS 361 C-Q) manufactured between January 2004 and August 2009. These models were sold throughout the United States by STIHL Dealers and have a serial number range of 262 202 287 through 280 623 809.

THIS RECALL IS FOR SAFETY REASONS!

Specifically, it appears that in some units the throttle trigger may not function properly, which could potentially result in the engine not returning to proper idle speed when the throttle trigger is released. The saw chain could then continue to rotate unexpectedly and, in certain circumstances, result in injury to the user or bystanders. STIHL has received no reports of injuries at this time.

The MS 361 C with a rear-handle-activated chain braking system can be identified by the model number of MS 361 C located on the starter cover shroud and a large throttle trigger interlock lever located on top of the chain saw’s rear handle, which also serves as a chain-brake-activating lever. A photo of the chain saw is shown below:

This recall does not apply to MS 361 C models that do not have the rear-handle-activated chain braking system; in other words, the version with the normal, smaller throttle trigger interlock is not included in this recall.

You should discontinue use of your MS 361 C chain saw with a rear-handle-activated chain braking system immediately and take it to an authorized STIHL Dealer. The Dealer will replace the throttle trigger at no cost to you.

If you need to locate your nearest dealer, consult the yellow pages under “SAWS” in your local phone book or call our Customer Service number: 1-800-610-6677, or consult our Dealer Locater on the World Wide Web at www.stihlusa.com. If you have any questions regarding this recall, please call a STIHL representative at the above-listed number.