STIHL ElastoStart: the shock-absorbing start-up assistant

Starting with a pull cord stresses muscles and expends energy before work even starts. Retrofittable STIHL ElastoStart technology is an easy solution

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 special shock absorber grip, which offers a smooth way of starting power tools that are started with a pull cord. It means your joints and muscles don’t have to suffer any jerky movements, so starting your STIHL tool is much easier with ElastoStart. 

All about STIHL ElastoStart

Find out everything you need to know about the simple and effective STIHL ElastoStart development, and how it can improve your tool use.

More than just a handle

The STIHL ElastoStart handle 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. The special starter grip set is inexpensive to purchase and you can install it yourself too. STIHL ElastoStart sets are available for retrofitting to the following machines: 

The STIHL ElastoStart is really easy to retrofit to your tool. First, it’s important to make sure you have the right cord length for your tool – if you need any help, we recommend you contact your STIHL dealer. The retrofittable set consists of an ElastoStart handle and starter cord that just need to be fitted to the pull starter of your tool.

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 avoids jerky movements, it contributes to protecting 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 almost entirely smooth.

Low-maintenance comfort

STIHL ElastoStart is protected against the effects of cutting dust and other 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 special shock absorber grip which makes tools that have a
  • The integrated damper system means that tools can be started without jerky movements of the starter cord 
  • STIHL ElastoStart protects joints and muscle power during starting 
  • STIHL ElastoStart can be retrofitted