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General Forestry => Chainsaws => Topic started by: ehp on January 01, 2021, 06:22:46 PM

Title: MS 400
Post by: ehp on January 01, 2021, 06:22:46 PM
anybody ever run one of these new saws , Looks pretty good from what I see online, if its ends up anything like how I got a 500i all you guys will have one before I do lol
Title: Re: MS 400
Post by: Woodfarmer on January 01, 2021, 08:34:13 PM
I was hoping they would have an arctic version, but apparently not.
Title: Re: MS 400
Post by: sawguy21 on January 01, 2021, 08:44:46 PM
They probably will if the current model is well received. I wonder if the price point will bite into MS460 sales or be an attractive alternative to the 362. Magnesium piston :o This thing should scream!
Title: Re: MS 400
Post by: ehp on January 02, 2021, 07:55:50 AM
everything Stihl is coming out with is not cheap on their pro saws, I'm sure were talking close to 2 years before we see it , sorry , before I see it lol
Title: Re: MS 400
Post by: SwampDonkey on January 02, 2021, 12:41:48 PM
Husqvarna is no cheap alternative, over $1700 bucks for FX550 with tax. Stihl 560 ain't no cheaper. Was $1200, 2 years ago. The talking head in Ottawa said no price gouging during pandemic. Wanna bet? Ain't going to stand up to his words neither, guarantee it.
Title: Re: MS 400
Post by: ehp on January 02, 2021, 03:11:43 PM
So far here husky is cheaper than stihl on chainsaws but I'm sure they will close that gap fast 
Title: Re: MS 400
Post by: SwampDonkey on January 02, 2021, 08:58:43 PM
Dealer owns both local shops here. Different company name over the doors, same owner. He can't get insured either, too many break ins. Sign by desk, not responsible for your stuff left here over night. ;D

Used to be $200 difference on clearing saws, not now. And Stihl is a tougher saw.
Title: Re: MS 400
Post by: ehp on January 02, 2021, 09:46:53 PM
I will see but when one shows up I most likely will try one 
Title: Re: MS 400
Post by: ehp on January 04, 2021, 08:20:03 PM
woodfarmer I have 3 or 4 462 arctics and they work ok, I have not seen a 500i arctic yet but I'm sure they will becoming . I think I'm going to phone my dealer tomorrow and order a ms400 , we should take a survey , I will never see it, everyone else will get one before me like the 500i , told its not coming to my part of ontario lol
Title: Re: MS 400
Post by: ehp on January 10, 2021, 06:21:27 AM
So I ordered a MS400 last week , guy that works for stihl says never heard of one BUT didnot say there is no such saw so we will see if anything shows up in the next 2 years
Title: Re: MS 400
Post by: ehp on January 25, 2021, 06:49:03 AM
dealer already has a 881 so maybe the 400 will show up sooner than I was thinking in Ontario
Title: Re: MS 400
Post by: Skeans1 on January 25, 2021, 10:23:20 AM
Quote from: ehp on January 04, 2021, 08:20:03 PM
woodfarmer I have 3 or 4 462 arctics and they work ok, I have not seen a 500i arctic yet but I'm sure they will becoming . I think I'm going to phone my dealer tomorrow and order a ms400 , we should take a survey , I will never see it, everyone else will get one before me like the 500i , told its not coming to my part of ontario lol
On the 500i the generator is under the flywheel just like the generator for the heated handles would be. I don't think you'll be see an artic version of the saw could be wrong but where are they going to pull the juice from?
Title: Re: MS 400
Post by: ehp on January 25, 2021, 12:35:09 PM
Not sure how much call for a 500i arctic anyways but I would buy one . The new 462 arctic I got last week works good but handles are not that warm but you can feel heat threw your gloves just not alot
Title: Re: MS 400
Post by: Cruiser_79 on January 28, 2021, 09:03:00 AM
I think they are available in Europe, there is a price on the stihl website already. Price is €100,- more than a 362.
Title: Re: MS 400
Post by: ehp on January 28, 2021, 09:59:45 AM
I heard they may show up in a month or so south of the border . I donot need one but when has that ever stopped me lol
Title: Re: MS 400
Post by: ehp on April 09, 2021, 08:22:05 PM
well got a MS 400 today , will put it to work here shortly and see how it does
Title: Re: MS 400
Post by: Tacotodd on April 09, 2021, 11:01:03 PM
What does the displacement end up being? I'm not sure if it's going to be THE one.
Title: Re: MS 400
Post by: ehp on April 10, 2021, 07:41:18 AM
67cc I think , its replacing the 362 
Title: Re: MS 400
Post by: ehp on April 11, 2021, 07:14:55 PM
put a couple tanks threw it today , it seems to handle the 20 inch bar setup quite well and is pretty good on fuel , muffler started turning purple in the first tank as I was pushing on it abit but it liked it and ran well, once I get 20 tanks on it then I should know what I got , it is like running a real good 361 but with more torque so it has more power but its light to carry
Title: Re: MS 400
Post by: lxskllr on April 11, 2021, 08:16:22 PM
How does it compare with the 462? Seems awfully close in size and capability.
Title: Re: MS 400
Post by: ehp on April 11, 2021, 08:41:01 PM
have to put some tanks thru it and see but at this point the 462 is faster as it should be 
Title: Re: MS 400
Post by: snobdds on April 12, 2021, 12:47:07 AM
I'll be watching for your updates.  I love my 361, my first saw,  way back when.  It's a good size for what I cut and just can't like the 362.  Hopefully your testing proves successful. 
Title: Re: MS 400
Post by: ehp on April 12, 2021, 06:45:57 PM
I need to put some time on it , Once I get a good week run time on it we will see  but so far I like it and I feel it will make a very nice climbing saw , its light and very smooth to run. Compression is starting to climb so thats a good sign as it didnot have much compression at the start
Title: Re: MS 400
Post by: ehp on April 12, 2021, 06:46:36 PM
its better than a 362 in my books and not by a little bit 
Title: Re: MS 400
Post by: ehp on April 14, 2021, 05:49:42 PM
its still getting better and works pretty nice , sure is smooth . I was hoping to test it against my old 362 but Pete sold it so it will be against a 462
Title: Re: MS 400
Post by: JJinAK on April 15, 2021, 11:56:19 AM
@ehp (https://forestryforum.com/board/index.php?action=profile;u=1195) Thanks Ed. I'm following this one closely as this saw is on my radar to replace my older non-cm 362.  I always appreciate your updates and feedback. 

JJ
Title: Re: MS 400
Post by: ehp on April 16, 2021, 07:43:39 AM
I figured it should be close to broken in now so yesterday I put it to work fairly hard and made her cut to see what it really has under the hood. . It did quite well  and pulled the 20 inch setup quite well.  Saw is good on fuel and pretty than a 462 by a far bit . I got oil pump at wide open but it still does not use much bar oil . It's does the job but abit more bar oil would not hurt . 
Title: Re: MS 400
Post by: snobdds on April 16, 2021, 12:29:53 PM
Well I guess it's time to buy as soon as my shop gets one in.  

The funny thing is, they are loaded with 500i, Non M tronic 661, 461, 462, 362 etc...Nothing is moving here.  I hope this does not make them pause when ordering the 400i once available. 
Title: Re: MS 400
Post by: ehp on April 16, 2021, 06:34:42 PM
It my weak and small mind a 362 is not in the same league as the 400 , 400 has more torque so a nicer saw to use . If your a firewood cutting kind of person honestly its all the saw you need , 20 inch light weight bar setup and your good to go and it should make a real good saw for guys climbing in trees where you need abit bigger saw
Title: Re: MS 400
Post by: ehp on April 21, 2021, 07:49:39 AM
I have cut quite abit of timber with this saw now , zero problems and it runs pretty nice and its light and real nice on the hands 
Title: Re: MS 400
Post by: lxskllr on April 21, 2021, 08:01:17 AM
I'm not sure I quite understand it's place in the lineup. Ok, it's a replacement for the 362, but you're right at the edge of 462 territory, which is only slightly heavier, and has more power. Seems like they should have gone with the power of the 362 with lighter weight.

edit:
Or go the other way, and have a saw around the 80cc mark that would bridge the 462 and 661.
Title: Re: MS 400
Post by: ehp on April 21, 2021, 11:52:30 AM
they do, its called the 500i,  to me and this is just me but the 400 is a nicer saw to run than the 362 , its got more power and less vibs on the hands , I should be cutting bigger hardwood here in a day or 2 so that will tell me how its going to hold its own against the 462 . Right now I'm falling pine with the 400 and cutting up with a 462 , Power wise I cannot tell you cause the 462 on the landing is never as sharp as the 400 is but we will test them once Pete gets his 400 broken in and he also has a fairly new 462 along with 500i 
Title: Re: MS 400
Post by: johnsayen on May 03, 2021, 09:18:22 AM
Hi all,

I am a firewood weekend warrior (5-10 cord a year) with a 261cm and am considering a second saw. Trying to decide between the 400, 462, and 500i and have been reading and watching everything I can about it. I was excited to see this thread, looking forward to hearing more about the experience and comparisons.

Thank you.
Title: Re: MS 400
Post by: ehp on May 03, 2021, 04:01:45 PM
Been cutting walnut last 2 days and I'm running the 400. It's not big walnut but the 400 seems to handle everything so far . Biggest tree would be 30 inches or so on stump so not big stuff.  I run a 20 inch bar setup on the 400 and if I was going to run a 24 inch bar I would move up to the 462 or the 500 .  The 400 does perfect with the 20 inch setup but I would be sure with the 24 inch it would be abit light on producing enough bar oil if what your is cutting is stuff light white oak or stuff is dead . . As far as a firewood saw the 400 is one of the top saws to choose in my mind . It's very nice to operate and it's cheaper than the 462 by abit and to me the 362 is not even in the same league as the 400. Only problem up here is they are very hard to find at stihl dealers 
Title: Re: MS 400
Post by: johnsayen on May 03, 2021, 04:59:40 PM
I have an 18” mounted on the 261 and it seems perfect, I’ve tried both a 20” and 16” on it as well but really like the 18.

I’m planning to run a 20” ES light saw on whatever the second saw is so it’s great to hear your happy burying the 400 with a 20” bar so far.

The one reason I was considering the 462 was it is only slightly heavier with a bit more grunt. Then of course I started reading more and was convinced I should get the 500i since it was “not much heavier”.

Even went so far as to make a table with weights for those that are interested. I love this thread and thank you for sharing your experience thus far.

Weight - model
10.8 - 261
12.3 - 362
12.8 - 400
13.2 - 462
13.9 - 500i
14.6 - 441, 461
Title: Re: MS 400
Post by: ehp on May 03, 2021, 10:29:25 PM
20 inch bar on the 500i is kind of a waste of time , or waste of saw is more like it , 500i has alot more torque and is made to run a longer bar . I like the light weight 25 inch on mine , My buddy that has a 400 and 462 and 500 is the same as me , the ms 400 is just a nicer saw to run plain and simple 
Title: Re: MS 400
Post by: johnsayen on May 03, 2021, 11:27:54 PM
Here are the vibrations level specs listed on the UK Stihl website for their pro saws. Pretty interesting as they reinforce your statements about the 400 being nice to run. 

The 261 has 3.5/3.5 m/s^2
The 400 has 3.5/3.5 m/s^2
The 462 has 4.8/3.6 m/s^2
The 500i has 4.2/4.0 m/s^2
Title: Re: MS 400
Post by: ehp on May 06, 2021, 09:47:29 PM
put the 400 threw some big hardwood today and it did very well for what it is , hard maple and walnut , it sure burnt more fuel today thou , 5 trees per tank was the average . I cut a fairly big walnut the other night with the 500i and it burnt a full tank just to cut the tree off the stump 
Title: Re: MS 400
Post by: johnsayen on May 06, 2021, 10:16:44 PM
thank you so much for continuing to post about it - it's getting real close to decision time for me on the second saw, the 400, 462, or 500i. Since I plan to run a 20" bar on it I am strongly leaning toward the 400 based on your comments here. The only thing I'm slightly hesitant about is fear of missing out on the 462 for only a few ounces more weight, though it sounds like based on your experience the 400 is a much more pleasant saw to run. The small form factor and AV numbers would agree with it but I just don't know as I haven't handled either the 400 or the 500 yet. The 462 made me feel like Paul Bunyan when swung it around with a 25" bar.
Title: Re: MS 400
Post by: ehp on May 08, 2021, 06:59:31 AM
other thing to is the 400 is about $300 cheaper here than the 462
Title: Re: MS 400
Post by: B.C.C. Lapp on May 08, 2021, 08:21:51 AM
Quote from: ehp on April 21, 2021, 07:49:39 AM
I have cut quite abit of timber with this saw now , zero problems and it runs pretty nice and its light and real nice on the hands
I have read all your post to date and I think you got me sold.  I have three 362's now, love em.
But, got to move with the times.  I'm going to see about a 400.   Hope it works out as well for me.
Biggest problem I have lately is that all the "saw shops" I used to go to are now all "lawn and garden" places for home owners mostly.   Not enough loggers left around for the way the shops used to be I guess.
Title: Re: MS 400
Post by: ehp on May 08, 2021, 06:39:36 PM
the 462 does have more torque but if the chain is sharp they cut not that much different , the 500i has quite abit more torque but alot more money and I prefer to cut with the 400 if I can, On big trees I do use the 500i so anything getting close to 40 inch on the stump I grab the 500i and I'm talking hardwood , mostly hard maple or walnut . On the bigger red oak I have been using the 400 as oak cuts easy 
Title: Re: MS 400
Post by: barbender on May 08, 2021, 07:13:25 PM
Ed, how does the ms400 compare to the Husky 562, they're the same size lass aren't they?
Title: Re: MS 400
Post by: ehp on May 09, 2021, 08:32:22 PM
I do not have a stock 562 to test against , the 562's I got here are ported . The 400 is a very nice saw to run , could it use more power and that would be yes but I have never ran a saw where I thought I wanted less power 
Title: Re: MS 400
Post by: ehp on May 09, 2021, 08:34:33 PM
400 is 67 cc where the 562 is 59cc , 562 is a screamer but in say 20 inch hardwood I'm not sure which is faster but I'm thinking the 400 has abit more torque
Title: Re: MS 400
Post by: Tacotodd on May 09, 2021, 08:47:23 PM
It's only going to make sense, because of the old saying; theirs no replacement for displacement!
Title: Re: MS 400
Post by: barbender on May 09, 2021, 11:07:30 PM
I didn't realize the 400 was 67cc, I thought it was a replacement for the 362...aren't those 60cc class? I'm not really a Stihl guy, and I appreciate most saw manufacturers putting the cc of the saw in the model number for a simple yellow such as myself😁  I don't have a lot of time on my Husky 562, but it has become my go to saw. I regret I didn't get one years ago, it makes me smile every time I run it😊
Title: Re: MS 400
Post by: johnsayen on June 03, 2021, 08:04:33 PM
after holding the ms400 and ms500i I decided to go with a ms500i with a 20" light and 25" light bars. The 400 felt lighter obviously, but the 500 didn't feel overweight with the smaller lighter bars and as I've only got a 261 and now 500i, I felt like the 500i was a better compliment as it can run bigger bars in the future if I ever need one.

The first time I ran it I was a little shocked at the throttle response. The 400 felt great in the hands, too!
Title: Re: MS 400
Post by: ehp on June 07, 2021, 06:57:09 PM
saw is still working very well even in this 100 F heat , this 400 has cut alot of timber now and zero problems 
Title: Re: MS 400
Post by: BonScott46 on June 21, 2021, 11:12:30 AM
Quote from: ehp on May 08, 2021, 06:39:36 PM
the 462 does have more torque but if the chain is sharp they cut not that much different , the 500i has quite abit more torque but alot more money and I prefer to cut with the 400 if I can, On big trees I do use the 500i so anything getting close to 40 inch on the stump I grab the 500i and I'm talking hardwood , mostly hard maple or walnut . On the bigger red oak I have been using the 400 as oak cuts easy
How does the plug look on the 400/462/500? My 462 seems to drink a lot of fuel from the amount of cutting I get out of a tank. I have noticed that it runs a very dark plug as well. Are you getting the same or more cutting out of a tank through the 400 vs the 462? Thanks!
Title: Re: MS 400
Post by: ehp on June 21, 2021, 05:32:13 PM
never had the plug out as I can tell just by the sound of the motor on how its running , I make my saws cut and not just cut away as I find they will run rich, the 500i is I find I got to make it cut to even get it to clear up on the sound , they run pretty rich . Watch the color of your muffler , if its not turning a blue/purple color your not pushing or making the motor work hard enough. AS far as fuel goes per tank  my 400 cuts more trees to a equal amount of fuel compared to the 462 . I just got my second 400 today, it finally came in 
Title: Re: MS 400
Post by: ehp on June 22, 2021, 11:57:38 AM
another thing , its hard to say how many trees per tank comparing 1 saw to another of a different model cause the tank size is different in volume , one thing that is for sure is the 400 does not use much bar oil and I mean very little , I wished my 400 used abit more bar oil 
Title: Re: MS 400
Post by: BonScott46 on June 22, 2021, 02:40:58 PM
Quote from: ehp on June 22, 2021, 11:57:38 AM
another thing , its hard to say how many trees per tank comparing 1 saw to another of a different model cause the tank size is different in volume , one thing that is for sure is the 400 does not use much bar oil and I mean very little , I wished my 400 used abit more bar oil
The tank to tank comparison of different size is exactly what I was getting at. If you can cut roughly the same amount of wood with a tank on each saw that would mean the 400 is significantly more fuel efficient because the tank is smaller (600vs.720ml). Pretty sure you can drop in a HO oiler control bolt from a 461 for better oil flow.
Title: Re: MS 400
Post by: teakwood on June 23, 2021, 08:07:30 AM
 Some swiss loggers told me that the 500i is a real fuel hog, they use the saw since 2-3years, so lots of experience.
Title: Re: MS 400
Post by: Skeans1 on June 23, 2021, 09:38:03 AM
Quote from: teakwood on June 23, 2021, 08:07:30 AM
Some swiss loggers told me that the 500i is a real fuel hog, they use the saw since 2-3years, so lots of experience.
They do use some fuel but really it's right on par with most saws of that size like a 390 husky.
Title: Re: MS 400
Post by: ehp on June 23, 2021, 10:49:02 AM
I didn't find the 500i hard on fuel at all.  But what I did find is I had to make the saw cut to make it use the power it has .  
Title: Re: MS 400
Post by: barbender on June 23, 2021, 12:05:21 PM
A torque machine?
Title: Re: MS 400
Post by: ehp on June 23, 2021, 12:54:01 PM
Its ok on torque . Not as much as the 462 . Compression is not high on the 400 either so not great if you want torque . I have not touched the 400 I been falling with but maybe just maybe this other 400 might go under the knife . I wanted to see how the piston wears on the first 400 sense it's magnesium but so far its the same as the others 
Title: Re: MS 400
Post by: ehp on June 23, 2021, 12:54:38 PM
500i is a light weight torque machine 
Title: Re: MS 400
Post by: BonScott46 on July 13, 2021, 01:33:21 PM
Anybody port one of these yet or know someone who has?
Title: Re: MS 400
Post by: ehp on July 13, 2021, 02:30:18 PM
I'm sure lots have . I got the new 400 on the table to get surgery .  I want abit more torque with the rpms 
Title: Re: MS 400
Post by: BonScott46 on August 01, 2021, 03:12:55 PM
She ported yet?
Title: Re: MS 400
Post by: ehp on August 02, 2021, 04:05:54 PM
maybe  ;D
Title: Re: MS 400
Post by: ehp on August 27, 2021, 07:30:52 AM
was at the dealer yesterday and they said the new MS400i is coming out and being tested in the USA, I have not seen a i model or heard anything about it but maybe guys in the USA have
Title: Re: MS 400
Post by: Tacotodd on August 27, 2021, 07:57:00 AM
I'd be interested in hearing how it is received by the end users. I'd also be interested to hear what those famous saw shops think about them, because it's intriguing to me, and has been since I first heard about them. All ears ya know.
Title: Re: MS 400
Post by: Woodfarmer on August 27, 2021, 12:36:58 PM
A 400i, I'm in. 
Title: Re: MS 400
Post by: ehp on August 27, 2021, 03:52:43 PM
The 2 main things I want changed on the 400 is first the trigger for the choke/start mode . My 400 does not like to hold close . The  MS 462 is alot better and feels good when you put it on . Next is I would like to see say 20% more bar oil from the oil pump . The 400 is a very very nice saw to use . Very easy on the shoulders and makes descent power . I have cut lots of 3 or 4 ft on the stump with mine and it's cut alot of timber now and got quite a few hours on it
Title: Re: MS 400
Post by: teakwood on August 28, 2021, 09:01:44 AM
Quote from: ehp on August 27, 2021, 07:30:52 AMsaid the new MS400i is coming out and being tested in the USA
@ehp (https://forestryforum.com/board/index.php?action=profile;u=1195)

i don't understand, what new 400i? is there a newer model coming out? you already have the 400i in use, right?
Title: Re: MS 400
Post by: ehp on August 29, 2021, 08:31:28 AM
I have ms 400C , this 400i model is to be like the 500i and be injected into the crankcase . Like I said I have never seen this i model or if its even true but the dealer said its out in test form in the USA
Title: Re: MS 400
Post by: teakwood on August 29, 2021, 10:09:57 AM
ah, i thought that the 400 came out as a i and you already used them for some time. didn't know there is a C version
Title: Re: MS 400
Post by: ehp on August 29, 2021, 12:51:06 PM
Mine has 400c on the rewind cover . Your in a different country so who knows what you have lol  I have seen saws in the USA come with carbs like the 261 and others where we are mtronic only here
Title: Re: MS 400
Post by: teakwood on August 31, 2021, 08:04:18 AM
We have squat here, dealer can't even bring a 500, 462, 400, ...in ::). I would love to buy a 500i, thinking of bringing one down from the US.

the newest models we get is, 260, 361 (which is a awesome saw, i have 2), 382 heavy turd from Brazil, 651 ( ::)never heard of this one), 660, 661, 780 ???  ???, 880. no Rollomatic or light bars, limited chains, no chainsawpants or other important ppe , it's like living in the 1970s
Title: Re: MS 400
Post by: B.C.C. Lapp on September 22, 2021, 04:35:00 PM
Did something totally out of character for me today.
   I run 362's.  I have three of them.  I went to 362's about 20 months ago because of a shoulder injury and thought a  lighter saw would be  easier on it.   But I've been thinking of going back to a 462 because when I want to run a 24 inch bar the 362 just doesn't quite have the power I want. 

So I was at the saw shop today and as usual they had next to no logging saws but they did have a new 462 and, a 400.   What the heck is a 400?   So I looked it over, liked the balance.  Looked at the spec's, liked that to, splits the difference between the 462 and 362 and the next thing I know I bought it.  
What the heck was I thinking?  
The guy at the shop, Ive known him for years told me they have sold 8 or ten of them and so far none came back and what they have heard has been good.
So we'll see.  Taking it to the woods tomorrow.   Hope I don't regret my first impulse buy in many years.
Title: Re: MS 400
Post by: ehp on September 22, 2021, 06:45:01 PM
I like my 400's alot more than the 362's I had 
Title: Re: MS 400
Post by: B.C.C. Lapp on September 23, 2021, 07:31:24 PM
Quote from: ehp on September 22, 2021, 06:45:01 PM
I like my 400's alot more than the 362's I had
Only been one day but, me to so far.
Title: Re: MS 400
Post by: B.C.C. Lapp on September 28, 2021, 07:47:32 PM
Quote from: ehp on August 27, 2021, 03:52:43 PM
Next is I would like to see say 20% more bar oil from the oil pump . The 400 is a very very nice saw to use . Very easy on the shoulders and makes descent power . I have cut lots of 3 or 4 ft on the stump with mine and it's cut alot of timber now and got quite a few hours on it
I agree with you on the oil pump. It ain't putting out enough.  Other than that though, after only one week running it in the woods, I got no complaints.
Title: Re: MS 400
Post by: ehp on September 28, 2021, 08:02:17 PM
its fine if running a 20 inch bar on oil but I find a 24 inch bar does not get enough when cutting stuff like white oak , The husky 562 has the same problem . But I fell with the 462 yesterday and I sure can tell you the 462 uses quite abit more fuel compared to the 400 
Title: Re: MS 400
Post by: barbender on September 28, 2021, 10:01:41 PM
Have any of you ever tried modding an oil pump for more output?
Title: Re: MS 400
Post by: ehp on September 29, 2021, 06:16:24 AM
I will once I get a second to pretty much breath , she is pretty much 7 days a week here and if its daylight enough I can see I'm cutting and piling in the dark
Title: Re: MS 400
Post by: ehp on October 07, 2021, 10:05:07 PM
one thing on the 462's both Pete and I have found and that is after say 3 or 4 months of running the ball that attaches to the gas cap comes out of its holder in the gas tank, not just may be one or 2 of the saws but everyone has done it and I think that on 10 of the 462's between us 
Title: Re: MS 400
Post by: johnsayen on October 17, 2021, 08:06:51 PM
ehp

I have a 261 and just recently a 500i which I have put a couple tanks through with a 20" Stihl light bar on the 500. I don't think I'll be reaching for the 261 very much anymore for firewood. I do admit that the 500 gets heavy as I am not a big guy but it sure cuts the wood like butter. My question is do you think the 400 will be able to run hard and fast with the 20 light like the 500? Would I be able to lean into it without bogging it, or should I save my money and keep running the 500? I must have a disorder because I love my two saws and can't stop thinking about the 400. 
Title: Re: MS 400
Post by: ehp on October 17, 2021, 09:11:05 PM
The 400 will not cut with the 500 but using a 20 inch bar setup the 400 is not a long ways behind and the 400 is alot easier on your hands and shoulders , the 400 is alot like your 261 just with quite abit more power . The 400 is one of if not the nicest saw out there to run, good power and super light and real nice on your body  
Title: Re: MS 400
Post by: johnsayen on October 30, 2021, 04:03:38 PM
Ehp you convinced me. Now I need to decide what bar to run on her. Move the 20" light from the 500 to the 400 and let the 500 wear the 25 light? Or rub a 20 standard on the 400? Seems silly to run a standard when I have a light. Maybe get a second 20 light for the 400. 
Title: Re: MS 400
Post by: ehp on October 30, 2021, 08:28:59 PM
20 inch light weight bar and put it to work  on the 400
Title: Re: MS 400
Post by: ehp on October 30, 2021, 08:29:54 PM
first thing your going to see is the 400 cuts alot more trees per gallon of fuel compared to the 500i
Title: Re: MS 400
Post by: chep on November 05, 2021, 07:22:38 PM
Dealer has a 400 set aside for me. I have been cutting pine with my ever trustted 461s but look forward to running it! Thanks for the inspiration Ed! Any tips?
Title: Re: MS 400
Post by: Tacotodd on November 05, 2021, 07:26:01 PM
Keep the chain sharp! From what I hear, they don't like a dull chain AT ALL. Keep in mind, I've never run one, so that's 2nd hand information to ME.
Title: Re: MS 400
Post by: barbender on November 05, 2021, 11:50:59 PM
Well I'm sure that advice will hold true- I haven't had a saw yet that likes a dull chain😊 Even the big Husky 390 slows right down from just touching the dirt, which I seem particularly gifted at😁
Title: Re: MS 400
Post by: ehp on November 06, 2021, 06:29:05 AM
Run it like you stole it . Make the motor work 
  The 400 is a very good saw and make sure you turn the bar oil pump to wide open which still uses very little bar oil
Title: Re: MS 400
Post by: chep on November 19, 2021, 05:14:01 PM
So I went to my dealer and held the 400. To be honest and I feel a bit foolish I thought it was a 400i. It is not. I did not buy it.  after running the 500i I am sold on the tech. I thought the 400 was the 500i  little bro. I dont know where it got in my head that there is a 400i. Dont think it even exists. Confused my dealer haha. Im on the list for a 500i. 
Ive been running ms 461 for my whole career. Ready for a change.  Really had my heart set on the imaginary 400i...  stupid_smiley stupid_smiley dancing-jack
Title: Re: MS 400
Post by: Tacotodd on November 19, 2021, 09:49:14 PM
@chep (https://forestryforum.com/board/index.php?action=profile;u=8183) was it mtronic or...?
Title: Re: MS 400
Post by: chep on November 19, 2021, 10:22:03 PM
Yes 400 m tronic. Just wishing for big power in smaller weight. But i may try the 400 after all we shall see. I know ehp cuts big hardwood all day. Im not always in wood like his. But I do cut most of the oversize for a mechanical crew and would say i cut big timber for our area. Central VT.  The 461s have just done me so well i am scared to stray. 
Title: Re: MS 400
Post by: ehp on November 20, 2021, 07:05:28 AM
you can still buy 461's new here at the dealers , the 400 is not going to have the same power as a 461 but is alot lighter and far nicer to cut with, the 462 is alot closer to the 461 in power 
Title: Re: MS 400
Post by: ehp on November 20, 2021, 07:07:39 AM
Like I said before , for me I run a 20 inch bar setup on the 400 . If I got to use a 24 inch setup or bigger I go to a bigger saw
Title: Re: MS 400
Post by: Dave12 on November 20, 2021, 06:49:17 PM
I've been running my MS400 with 20" light bar for a couple of weeks now and it hasn't had me missing my MS462, it has become my back up saw.  I fall and buck dead ash for firewood anywhere from 8 to 20 inches (occasionally a little bigger or smaller).  It almost seems to have a second gear when you get about half way through the bigger stuff.  Once the heavy load is off it revs right up and finishes strong.
Title: Re: MS 400
Post by: johnsayen on November 21, 2021, 06:07:21 PM
I'm excited to fire up my 400 and get it into wood 
Title: Re: MS 400
Post by: ehp on November 21, 2021, 09:14:58 PM
I have been running my 400 the last 4 or 5 days falling timber . I'm cutting about 75% pine right now but the hardwood is mostly 25 to about 40 inch diameter and I do fine with the 400 but if I'm cutting mainly hardwood I will take the 500i , right now I donot even carry a 462 in the truck they are all sitting at home where its nice a warm and dry , right now I got 1 400 and 3  500i in the truck for work
Title: Re: MS 400
Post by: Woodfarmer on November 22, 2021, 05:50:33 PM
Quote from: chep on November 19, 2021, 05:14:01 PM
So I went to my dealer and held the 400. To be honest and I feel a bit foolish I thought it was a 400i. It is not. I did not buy it.  after running the 500i I am sold on the tech. I thought the 400 was the 500i  little bro. I dont know where it got in my head that there is a 400i. Dont think it even exists. Confused my dealer haha. Im on the list for a 500i.
Ive been running ms 461 for my whole career. Ready for a change.  Really had my heart set on the imaginary 400i...  stupid_smiley stupid_smiley dancing-jack
Hey Chep, I'm waiting for the 400i as well. Until then it's, 500i on the big stuff and 2152/59/65&71 from there on down.
Title: Re: MS 400
Post by: ehp on November 29, 2021, 09:56:26 AM
I see alot of dealers here now have a single 500i in stock but no light weight bars that are to be sold with the saw and no one has any ms 400 in stock here 
Title: Re: MS 400
Post by: Whiplash1 on November 29, 2021, 07:49:27 PM
Quote from: johnsayen on October 30, 2021, 04:03:38 PM
Ehp you convinced me. Now I need to decide what bar to run on her. Move the 20" light from the 500 to the 400 and let the 500 wear the 25 light? Or rub a 20 standard on the 400? Seems silly to run a standard when I have a light. Maybe get a second 20 light for the 400.
Put the 20" on the 400 and get a cannon 28" duralite on the 500! Man would that be a sexy setup! 
Title: Re: MS 400
Post by: ehp on November 29, 2021, 11:26:26 PM
been cutting fairly good size hardwood lately with the 400 , lots in the 30 to 40 inch on the stump and mostly oak , The 400 does good as long as you keep it sharp as it does not have the torque to pull a dull chain 
Title: Re: MS 400
Post by: Tacotodd on November 30, 2021, 10:32:41 AM
Unfortunately those Cannon bars are pricey in the USA, and I can only imagine how expensive the light weight version is. Regular Oregon compared to regular Cannon, the Cannon is about 2x the price. Light version of Oregon is about 2x the price of regular and I can only imagine how much that lightweight version of the Cannon will be :embarassed:
Title: Re: MS 400
Post by: Greenhighlander on November 30, 2021, 12:39:03 PM
Quote from: Tacotodd on November 30, 2021, 10:32:41 AM
Unfortunately those Cannon bars are pricey in the USA, and I can only imagine how expensive the light weight version is. Regular Oregon compared to regular Cannon, the Cannon is about 2x the price. Light version of Oregon is about 2x the price of regular and I can only imagine how much that lightweight version of the Cannon will be :embarassed:
Canon bars are worth every penny IMHO The price difference seems to be more then made up for with the durability , life span , and customer service.  
I am actually surprised they are only double an Oregon

Also just want to thank everyone for the 400 info shared in this thread. I really appreciate it 
Title: Re: MS 400
Post by: Tacotodd on November 30, 2021, 02:21:36 PM
@Greenhighlander (https://forestryforum.com/board/index.php?action=profile;u=49686) I was just going off of the prices that I have in my PRINTED Madsens catalog of 2019. I don't have any idea what the current price structure is ???
Title: Re: MS 400
Post by: barbender on November 30, 2021, 03:12:14 PM
I know what would immediately happen if I sprung the extra coin for a Cannon bar. See my user name😁
Title: Re: MS 400
Post by: ehp on November 30, 2021, 05:45:30 PM
if you cannot get the light weight stihl bar the stihl E bar is ok to use as well, it does not have the replaceable tip but unless you pinch the tip bad you should not have tip trouble , I find the time the tip is worn out the bar rails are worn out as well and those E bars are about half the cost of the light weight bar and are lighter than the ES bars
Title: Re: MS 400
Post by: Tacotodd on November 30, 2021, 06:40:01 PM
@ehp (https://forestryforum.com/board/index.php?action=profile;u=1195) that's very good information to know. I didn't even think about that :o Oh the humanity! Ugh :( ;D :D
Title: Re: MS 400
Post by: Old Greenhorn on November 30, 2021, 07:41:38 PM
Quote from: Tacotodd on November 30, 2021, 02:21:36 PM
@Greenhighlander (https://forestryforum.com/board/index.php?action=profile;u=49686) I was just going off of the prices that I have in my PRINTED Madsens catalog of 2019. I don't have any idea what the current price structure is ???
Guys, when I was on the phone with them (Madsens) an order or two ago my sales guy said they have had trouble getting catalogs printed, but they try to update the online (PDF) catalog on a regular basis. He also noted that they have no control of the jumping prices so their current prices rely on the cost of the latest shipment, which, he said, seems to change with every shipment. >:( He was very good about checking stock and the current price on each item I ordered. I do like doing business with those folks because when you ask any questions about what you are buying they really know their stuff, at least that is my experience. I wish they were sponsors here, that would be really nice.
 There are several things in the 2019 catalog that are no longer available so call them or check the online catalog first.
Title: Re: MS 400
Post by: Tacotodd on November 30, 2021, 08:19:06 PM
That's also why I was specific about that cat and the time frame that it was all about. After all, I can only control me (sometimes :D). Tom, you know that's how "I" roll ::). After all, we met face to face at the pig roast and I had your phone number from it. I even stored it and kept it. Now if I can just figure out how to keep such things. Oh well, school is in session SOMEWHERE :P tech inept that I am and my equipment too (Doohhg!).
Title: Re: MS 400
Post by: 421Altered on December 02, 2021, 10:09:25 PM
Went to my local Stihl dealer to pick up some items I had ordered.  While waiting I checked out the eye candy on the wall.  They had 3 ms 400's!!  First one's I have seen,of course, I picked it up and man is it light!  I'll have to wait awhile for one, maybe we'll get another stimulus check!! LOL
Title: Re: MS 400
Post by: sawguy21 on December 03, 2021, 03:43:59 PM
I too am amazed at the light weight, sure would like tto try one if I had a use for it.
Title: Re: MS 400
Post by: ehp on December 03, 2021, 07:11:40 PM
one of the farmers I look after his farms ask me to go up a few walnut and cherry and 8 cottonwood , cottonwood are all in the 35 inch to 40 inch on the stump, and I took the 400 , I got the first cottonwood on the ground but then went with the 500i, the cottonwood was so full of water it was making the chain stick in the bar , even the 500i was having abit of trouble but it all done
Title: Re: MS 400
Post by: so il logger on December 03, 2021, 11:47:49 PM
Quote from: ehp on November 29, 2021, 09:56:26 AM
I see alot of dealers here now have a single 500i in stock but no light weight bars that are to be sold with the saw and no one has any ms 400 in stock here
Saws are scarce here, never seen a 400. My 500i's do not feel right with a regular weight bar so i have been running nothing but stihl lights. Now it seems we have a bar shortage as well, light bars are backordered at stihl dealers i been in. Cannon rep says 12 months wait on bars. A friend in california found a couple and shipped them. Buckle up, this may get interesting
Title: Re: MS 400
Post by: ehp on December 03, 2021, 11:56:11 PM
there has been no light weight bars here for quite sometime unless a dealer had it in stock from before , Oregon makes a light weight bar to fit the stihls but I have not used one yet , I got some of them just have not ran them, I bought 4 more stihl E bars today , I run them on the landing saw as the sand kills a bar pretty fast and I get about the same length of time out of a E bar as a ES bar on the landing , Any of the new 462 or 500i you buy now have a normal ES bar on them here 
Title: Re: MS 400
Post by: Greenhighlander on December 04, 2021, 08:24:50 AM
Quote from: barbender on November 30, 2021, 03:12:14 PM
I know what would immediately happen if I sprung the extra coin for a Cannon bar. See my user name😁
I would be amazed at anyone being able to bend one of their superbars .  I can't even imagine how much effort it would take to bend it trying to bend it .  I doubt it could be bent with use on a saw.  
Title: Re: MS 400
Post by: ehp on December 04, 2021, 08:50:50 AM
Oh you would be surprised.  I have seen guys bend stuff  that not possible to bend .  Most times it's guys trying to fall double trees out of 1 stump   one tree goes one direction and the other goes the other way 
Title: Re: MS 400
Post by: sawguy21 on December 04, 2021, 12:07:03 PM
Some guys can break a steel ball with a rubber hammer.
Title: Re: MS 400
Post by: ehp on December 04, 2021, 02:20:17 PM
I seen a cutter bring out his saw and it was the bar bent in 10 different directions and the part of the bar cover that the bar studs go thru to hold the bar to the crankcase and it had the piece of the crankcase with the 2 bar studs still attached to the bar . Just that small piece . Nothing else of the saw and when I tell you it got smashed I mean it got smashed to pretty much nothing 
Title: Re: MS 400
Post by: barbender on December 04, 2021, 08:53:19 PM
Clump hardwoods are also a great spot to bend harvester bars. As for the Cannon bars, I've never even seen one in person but they are just made out of steel. I can bend steel😂
Title: Re: MS 400
Post by: Woodfarmer on December 14, 2021, 09:20:28 AM
What is the going price for the 400 now?
Title: Re: MS 400
Post by: johnsayen on December 14, 2021, 11:59:29 AM
900ish with a 20-25" bar
Title: Re: MS 400
Post by: ehp on December 14, 2021, 12:19:52 PM
Can you find one is the bigger question. I think list price here is in the 11 hundred range in ontario so fair bit cheaper than a 462
Title: Re: MS 400
Post by: mrselfreliance on December 28, 2021, 04:55:42 AM
Well, since I ran over my 261 yesterday.... Time to try and find a 400!  Wish me luck.... In N.B Canada, if anyone knows of any dealers that have one close.
Title: Re: MS 400
Post by: barbender on December 28, 2021, 11:37:18 AM
Bummer on the 261!
Title: Re: MS 400
Post by: chep on January 05, 2022, 08:24:03 PM
Monday morning i bought a 400.
Loving it so far. Not in big wood but am in hemlock with lots of limbs. Some spruce to. Fast saw. Snappy. Prob have a bout 15 tanks thru it so far. Tank is smaller then im used to on the 461. Started carrying my go jugs so i can get more distance/wood cut.  from my cans
Exhaust is starting to turn purple so hope its just gonna get better. Ordered a bark box so excited about that to!  8)
Title: Re: MS 400
Post by: chep on January 05, 2022, 08:25:24 PM
Cutting everything to length for forwarder so not just dropping and topping for skidder. My shoulders feel better then they did last week too 8)
Title: Re: MS 400
Post by: stavebuyer on February 25, 2022, 01:37:44 PM
Was waiting on a load of gravel for the driveway and got a phone call from my dealer; they finally got their first MS 400 after being on the list for over a year.

They put a 24" bar on it for me and it followed me home. Nice weight and balance for the displacement.


(https://forestryforum.com/gallery/albums/userpics/25189/image0_282329.jpeg?easyrotate_cache=1645813612)
 
Title: Re: MS 400
Post by: hamesadam on June 26, 2022, 03:07:29 PM
Quote from: chep on January 05, 2022, 08:24:03 PM
Monday morning i bought a 400.
Loving it so far. Not in big wood but am in hemlock with lots of limbs. Some spruce to. Fast saw. Snappy. Prob have a bout 15 tanks thru it so far. Tank is smaller then im used to on the 461. Started carrying my go jugs so i can get more distance/wood cut. from my cans
Exhaust is starting to turn purple so hope its just gonna get better. (https://bestdrillchainsaw.com/stihl-ms-400-review-stihl-ms-400-problems-stihl-ms-400-c-m-stihl-ms-400-specs/)Ordered a bark box so excited about that to!  8)
I'm going to pick it up on Tuesday, thumbs-up everyone is happy
Title: Re: MS 400
Post by: Mack on September 30, 2022, 05:20:56 PM
Picked one up recently. Great saw! Thoroughly impressed!! 
Title: Re: MS 400
Post by: ehp on September 30, 2022, 07:42:41 PM
I cut pretty much all summer with mine again cutting white and red pine , Never have had a problem with mine