STIHL ElastoStart: the shock absorbing starter grip

STIHL ElastoStart features an integral damper that absorbs the stresses created by pulling on the starter cord.

A man in protective equipment holding a STIHL petrol chainsaw with ElastoStart and Light 04 guide bar

What is STIHL ElastoStart?

STIHL ElastoStart is a shock absorbing starter grip, offering a smoother way of starting selected petrol tools . It reduces the jerky movement needed to pull the starter cord, putting less stress on your joints and muscles. STIHL ElastoStart features on all professional petrol forestry chainsaws, meaning the engine can be regularly stopped and restarted with ease. 

All about STIHL ElastoStart

More than just a handle

The STIHL ElastoStart starter grip features an integrated damper. This absorbs the load peaks that are generated by compression pressure changes during starting, and dissipates them to smooth out jerky movements in the cord. It alternately absorbs and releases forces according to the compression pattern, resulting in a smooth starting process. 

Close-up of an ElastoStart handle grip on a STIHL MS 261 C-M petrol chainsaw

Can I retrofit STIHL ElastoStart to my tools?

STIHL ElastoStart is a feature that can be retrofitted to many tools.  If your tool already features ErgoStart technology, installing ElastoStart too is not necessary as the hard work is already done for you. We'd recommend getting in touch with your local STIHL dealer to discuss if it would be appropriate to retrofit a STIHL ElastoStart starter grip to your machine. 

 

Can the STIHL ElastoStart cord be replaced?

If your STIHL ElastoStart cord breaks, you will need to replace the entire system; because the cord is integrated into the damper in the handle, the system will not work if you only replace the cord. 

The benefits of STIHL ElastoStart

The benefits of smoother starting will most noticeably be perceived in the joints and muscles. This clever system has been designed to maximise those benefits. 

Protects against strain

Because STIHL ElastoStart reduces jerky movements, it helps to protect your muscles and joints from strain and premature fatigue. When used with a tool that features a manual fuel pump and/or decompression valve, start-up becomes much easier and simpler.

Low-maintenance comfort

STIHL ElastoStart is protected against the effects of sawdust and dirt particles, so it functions reliably and without problems for a long time, with no need for maintenance – and your shoulder can too! 

A STIHL MS 261 C-M petrol chainsaw being started on the ground

Summary: STIHL ElastoStart 

  • STIHL ElastoStart is a shock absorbing starter grip
  • The integrated damper system means that tools can be started without jerky movements
  • STIHL ElastoStart helps to reduce stress to joints and muscle during starting 
  • STIHL ElastoStart can be retrofitted to other machines - consult your nearest STIHL dealer