Stihl Introduces First-ever Chainsaw with Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI)
Forestry and tree service Pros need a serious chainsaw, and the Stihl MS 500i introduces new features to the market we haven’t seen before. The Stihl MS 500i is the first chainsaw on the worldwide market to offer precise fuel-metering via electronic fuel injection (EFI). Yep. Fuel injection. And, with its quick acceleration, easy start-up, and excellent power-to-weight ratio, you’ll quickly accomplish all your felling and limbing tasks.
Indeed, we liked this model so much that we added it to our Best Chainsaw Reviews list.
What’s the Big Deal?
The really obvious talking point is the electronically controlled Stihl fuel Injection technology (the “i” in the model number). According to Stihl, this is the first time this feature has hit the chainsaw market. EFI delivers this saw’s super-fast acceleration due to more precise fuel delivery.
In terms of numbers, the Stihl MS 500i chainsaw accelerates from 0 to 62 mph in a quarter of a second. That beats the quickest Tesla by over 2 seconds…but Tesla can’t fell a tree. Pushing 6.7 bhp and with a dry weight of 13.9 lbs., the Stihl MS 500i also has an excellent power-to-weight ratio.
Stihl simplified the start-up procedure as well. EFI eliminates the choke. You simply give the primer bulb a press and pull the starter cord. A decompression valve vents compression to start up quickly. Coupled with the quick acceleration, this chainsaw gets you cutting immediately.
Once up and running, the Stihl MS 500i Chainsaw uses built-in pressure and internal temperature sensors that measure atmospheric pressure, external air temperature, and engine temperature on startup and during operation. It will auto-adjust performance appropriately from the operating conditions.
When it comes time to service the saw, the Stihl dealership will be able to tap into the MS 500i’s MDG 1 Diagnostic Software. This bit of high-tech wizardry tracks the saw’s performance with error memory, letting the dealer track down any issues quickly.
Be sure to check out our chainsaw maintenance tips and guide to chainsaw safety!
Other Features
- Lightweight chain sprocket cover with captive bar buts
- Side-access chain tensioner
- Anti-vibration system
- High-output adjustable automatic oiler
- Stihl Ematic lubricaton system
- Stihl ElastoStart starter handle
- HD2 air filter
- Quarter-turn lock-on air filter shroud
- Toolless fuel and oil filter caps with retainers
Stihl MS 500i Chainsaw Pricing
We’re still waiting for the Stihl MS 500i Chainsaw to hit stores, but we expect the official release any day now. Or, you can head to your local dealership. In any case, the price will range depending on the bar and chain size, as well as if you opt for the wrap handle, which will allow the chainsaw to be used in multiple positions with your hands in the proper positions. You can pick one of these for anywhere between $1309.99 and $1419.99. Like all of the Stihl gas-powered chainsaws, this one comes with a 1-year warranty for personal use or a 3-month warranty for professional use.
To learn more about the STIHL MS 500i chain saw, visit the STIHLusa.com website .
Stihl EFI Chainsaw Specs
- Model: Stihl MS 500i and MS 500i R (Wrap Handle)
- Displacement: 79.2 cc
- Engine Power: 6.7 bhp
- Weight: 13.9 lbs.; 14.8 lbs (MS 500i R)
- Fuel Capacity: 26.05 oz.
- Oil Capacity: 11 oz.
- Recommended Guide Bar Length Range: 16 in. to 36 in.
- Warranty: 1-year residential/3-month professional
- Price: ~$1,700
