stihl 018 chainsaw manual

The STIHL 018 is a lightweight, professional-grade gasoline chainsaw designed for a variety of cutting tasks. It features a powerful engine, anti-vibration system, quick-stop chain brake, and STIHL's Ematic lubrication system. Below are key sections covering safety, features, operation, maintenance, troubleshooting, and specifications.

Features at a Glance

Key components: STIHL engine, guide bar, saw chain, anti-vibration system, chain brake, throttle trigger lockout, and Ematic oiling system.

Safety Information

Read and understand all instructions before operation. Always wear proper PPE.

1. Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): Wear safety glasses, hearing protection, gloves, chainsaw chaps/pants, and sturdy boots.
2. Work Area Safety: Keep bystanders and pets at least 10 meters away. Ensure secure footing.
3. Kickback Zone: Avoid contact with the upper quadrant of the bar tip.
4. Chain Brake: Test function before each use. Engage when carrying saw more than a few steps.

WARNING! Gasoline is highly flammable. Refuel only with engine stopped and cool, outdoors, away from ignition sources.

Assembly & First Use

Unpack and inspect contents. Assemble guide bar and chain.

1. Attach Guide Bar & Chain: Place bar on studs, loop chain over sprocket and onto bar rails with cutters facing forward. Adjust tension.
2. Fill Fuel: Use clean, fresh unleaded gasoline mixed with high-quality 2-stroke oil at 50:1 ratio (STIHL HP Ultra recommended).
3. Fill Chain Oil: Use STIHL chain oil or a quality substitute. Check oiler function.
4. Initial Start: Place saw on clear ground, engage chain brake, set master control lever to cold start position, pull starter rope.

CAUTION! Ensure chain brake is engaged when starting. Keep hands clear of throttle trigger.

Specifications

• Model: STIHL 018
• Engine Displacement: 31.8 cc
• Power Output: 1.8 kW (2.4 hp)
• Fuel/Oil Ratio: 50:1 (Gasoline to 2-stroke oil)
• Idle Speed: 2,800 rpm
• Max. Engine Speed: 13,500 rpm
• Weight (Powerhead): Approx. 4.2 kg (9.3 lbs)
• Sound Pressure Level: Approx. 106 dB(A)
• Vibration Level (Front/Rear Handle): Approx. 4.5/2.5 m/s²
• Ignition System: Electronic, breakerless
• Carburetor: Diaphragm-type with fixed jet

Controls and Components

Master Control Lever: Combines stop switch, choke, and run positions. Throttle Trigger Lockout: Must be depressed to allow throttle operation. Chain Brake Lever: Front hand guard; activates brake when pushed forward. Decompression Valve: Reduces pulling force for starting. Throttle Trigger: Controls engine speed. Fuel Tank Cap: Venting type. Oil Tank Cap.

Maintenance Points: Air filter cover, spark plug, chain tensioner, muffler, clutch, sprocket.

Starting & Stopping Procedure

Cold Start:

1. Engage chain brake (push hand guard forward).
2. Set master control lever to choke position (full down).
3. Press decompression valve (if equipped).
4. Place saw on ground, hold front handle with left hand, place right foot in rear handle.
5. Pull starter rope sharply until engine fires (usually 2-5 pulls).
6. Move master control lever up one notch to half-throttle/warm start position.
7. Pull starter rope again until engine starts. Allow to idle briefly.
8. Blip throttle to disengage fast idle. Chain brake can be disengaged.

Warm Start: Set master control lever to half-throttle position and pull starter rope.

Stopping: Release throttle, let engine idle, move master control lever to STOP position.

Chain & Bar Maintenance

Regular maintenance ensures optimal performance and safety.

1. Chain Tension: Check when cold. Chain should snap back when pulled from bar but not bind. Loosen bar nuts, adjust tensioning screw, retighten nuts.
2. Sharpening: Use correct round file size (typically 4.0 mm or 5/32"). Maintain correct filing angle (usually 30°). File all cutters evenly.
3. Depth Gauges: File down with flat file and gauge to maintain proper height difference (approx. 0.6 mm / .025").
4. Bar Care: Clean bar groove, flip bar regularly for even wear. Dress rails with flat file if burred.
5. Sprocket: Inspect for wear. Replace if teeth are hooked or worn.

Tip: Always wear heavy gloves when handling chain.

Fuel & Lubrication

Fuel Mix: Use 89 octane (or higher) unleaded gasoline. Mix with a high-quality 2-stroke engine oil meeting ISO-L-EGD (or JASO FD, API TC) standards at a 50:1 ratio. Example: 5 L gasoline to 100 ml oil. Use a clean, approved mixing container. Shake well.

Chain Oil: Use proper chain oil (viscosity suited to temperature). Check oil flow by running saw at high speed near a light surface (like a stump); a line of oil should appear.

Air Filter: Clean regularly. Remove, tap out debris, or wash in warm soapy water if foam type. Allow to dry completely before reinstalling.

Spark Plug: Clean electrode and adjust gap to 0.5 mm (0.020"). Replace if worn or fouled. Recommended type: Bosch WSR6F or equivalent.

Troubleshooting

Reset: For carburetor adjustment, refer to manual for factory settings (typically: H - 1 turn open from lightly seated, L - 1 turn open).

Storage

For long-term storage (over 30 days):

1. Drain fuel tank and run engine until it stops to clear carburetor.
2. Remove spark plug, add a few drops of oil into cylinder, pull starter slowly 2-3 times, reinstall plug.
3. Clean entire saw, especially cooling fins and air intake.
4. Remove chain and bar, clean, and coat with oil.
5. Store in a dry, secure place, out of reach of children.

CAUTION! Never store with fuel in the tank for extended periods. Fuel can degrade and cause starting problems.

Warranty & Service

STIHL Limited Warranty: Covers defects in materials and workmanship for a specified period from date of retail purchase. Proof of purchase required. Warranty does not cover normal wear, misuse, or lack of maintenance.

For service, repairs, and genuine STIHL parts, contact an authorized STIHL servicing dealer. Do not attempt repairs beyond your skill level, especially involving ignition or fuel system.

For support and dealer locator, visit www.stihlusa.com or contact STIHL Incorporated at 1-800-467-8445.