AV 011 Chainsaw STHIL Manual

The AV 011 Chainsaw by STHIL is a professional-grade chainsaw designed for demanding forestry, landscaping, and cutting applications. It features a high-performance 2-stroke engine, anti-vibration system (AV), automatic chain oiler, quick-stop chain brake, and ergonomic design for operator comfort and safety. Below are key sections for safety, features, assembly, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

1. Features at a Glance 2. Safety Instructions 3. Assembly & Preparation 4. Specifications 5. Controls and Components 6. Starting & Operation 7. Maintenance Schedule 8. Chain Sharpening & Tensioning 9. Storage Guidelines 10. Warranty Information 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: High-torque 2-stroke engine, Anti-Vibration (AV) handle system, Quick-stop inertia-activated chain brake, Automatic and manual chain oiler, Decompression valve for easy starting, Side-access chain tensioner.

FeatureDescription
Engine Type2-stroke, single-cylinder, air-cooled
Displacement64.1 cc
Power Output4.2 kW (5.6 hp)
Fuel Tank Capacity0.55 L
Oil Tank Capacity0.26 L
Guide Bar Length40 cm (16 inches) standard
Chain Pitch3/8"
Weight (without bar/chain)6.2 kg
Anti-Vibration SystemReduces operator fatigue
Chain BrakeInertia-activated for kickback protection

Safety Instructions

Read and understand all instructions before operation. Always wear appropriate Personal Protective Equipment (PPE).

  1. PPE Required: Safety glasses, hearing protection, gloves, chainsaw chaps, steel-toe boots, helmet with face shield.
  2. Work Area: Clear area of bystanders, especially children. Ensure secure footing.
  3. Fuel Safety: Refuel in well-ventilated area, engine off and cool. Use fuel/oil mix specified (50:1).
  4. Kickback Zone: Avoid contact with upper quadrant of guide bar tip.
  5. Carrying: Engage chain brake, carry with guide bar pointing rearward.

WARNING! Failure to follow safety instructions can result in serious injury or death. Never operate when tired or under the influence.

Assembly & Preparation

Unpack and inspect contents. Assemble guide bar and chain.

  1. Attach Guide Bar & Chain: Place chain on bar, align with sprocket, fit bar onto studs, tighten nuts finger-tight.
  2. Tension Chain: Use side-access tensioning screw to adjust. Proper tension: chain snug but pullable by hand.
  3. Fill Tanks: Add specified 2-stroke fuel mix (50:1) to fuel tank. Fill chain oil tank with STHIL or equivalent bar & chain oil.
  4. Check Controls: Ensure throttle trigger, throttle lockout, and chain brake function correctly.

CAUTION! Always wear cut-resistant gloves when handling the chain. Ensure chain is installed with cutting teeth facing forward on top of bar.

Specifications

Controls and Components

Main Controls: Front Handle with chain brake, Rear Handle with throttle trigger, Throttle lockout, Master Control Lever (choke/run/stop), Decompression valve button, Chain tensioning screw.

Master Control Lever Positions: - STOP (0): Engine off. - RUN (I): Normal operation. - CHOKE (⏫): Cold start position.

Safety Features: Chain brake (manual/inertia), Throttle lockout (must be depressed to engage throttle), Right-hand guard.

Starting & Operation

Cold Start Procedure:

  1. Engage chain brake by pushing front hand guard forward.
  2. Set Master Control Lever to CHOKE (⏫).
  3. Press decompression valve (if equipped).
  4. Place saw on firm ground, hold rear handle with right foot.
  5. Pull starter cord sharply until engine 'fires' (usually 3-5 pulls).
  6. Move Master Control Lever to RUN (I).
  7. Pull starter cord again until engine starts.
  8. Blip throttle to disengage fast idle. Release chain brake before cutting.

Warm Start: Set lever to RUN (I) and pull starter.

Cutting Technique: Use full throttle during cut. Let chain do the work; avoid forcing. Be aware of pinch points, binding, and kickback.

Maintenance Schedule

IntervalTask
Daily (Before use)Check chain tension, sharpness, and lubrication. Inspect for loose fasteners. Check fuel/oil levels.
Every 10 hoursClean air filter. Check spark plug.
Every 20 hoursClean spark arrestor screen (muffler).
Every 50 hoursReplace fuel filter. Clean carburetor air intake.
Every 100 hoursCheck cylinder fins for debris. Inspect anti-vibration elements.
AnnuallyProfessional servicing recommended.

Note: Always disconnect spark plug wire before performing maintenance.

Chain Sharpening & Tensioning

Sharpening: Use round file matching chain pitch (typically 5.5 mm). Maintain 30° cutting angle and 10° top plate angle. File all cutters to equal length.

Tensioning: Chain should be snug against guide bar but pullable by hand (with gloves). Re-tension when chain sags away from bar. Always tension with saw cold.

Lubrication: Ensure automatic oiler is working. Check oil flow by pointing bar tip at a light surface and running at full throttle; a line of oil should appear.

Storage Guidelines

For storage over 30 days:

  1. Drain fuel tank and run carburetor dry.
  2. Remove chain, clean, and soak in oil.
  3. Clean entire saw, especially cooling fins and air filter.
  4. Store in a dry, locked place, out of reach of children.

CAUTION! Never store with fuel in tank for extended periods. Old fuel can damage carburetor.

Warranty Information

STHIL AV 011 comes with a 12-month commercial warranty and 24-month domestic warranty from date of purchase, covering defects in materials and workmanship under normal use. Warranty does not cover wear parts (chain, bar, spark plug, filters), damage from misuse, improper fuel, or lack of maintenance. Keep your purchase receipt. For warranty service, contact an authorized STHIL dealer.

Troubleshooting

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
Engine will not startNo spark, flooded, old fuel, choke positionCheck spark plug; set control to RUN; use fresh fuel mix; wait if flooded.
Engine starts then diesClogged fuel filter, dirty air filter, carburetor adjustmentReplace fuel filter; clean air filter; consult dealer for carb adjustment.
Chain does not turnChain brake engaged, clutch worn, sprocket damagedDisengage chain brake; inspect clutch and sprocket; replace if worn.
Excessive vibrationLoose components, unbalanced chain, damaged AV mountsTighten all fasteners; sharpen chain evenly; check AV buffers.
Chain throws oil but doesn't cutDull chain, incorrect filing angleSharpen chain correctly to 30°.
OverheatingDirty cooling fins, lean fuel mix, low bar oilClean fins; ensure correct 50:1 mix; fill oil tank.

Authorized Service: For repairs beyond basic maintenance, contact your local STHIL dealer.

Support: STHIL Customer Service: 1-800-467-8445; www.stihlusa.com

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