stihl 024 chainsaw manual pdf

The STIHL 024 chainsaw is a professional-grade gasoline-powered chainsaw designed for demanding cutting tasks. It features a powerful engine, robust construction, and a range of safety and operational features. Below are key sections covering safety, features, assembly, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting to ensure safe and efficient use.

1. Features at a Glance 2. Safety Information 3. Assembly & First-Time Setup 4. Specifications 5. Controls and Components 6. Fuel & Lubrication 7. Starting & Operation 8. Maintenance Schedule 9. Chain Sharpening & Tensioning 10. Storage 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: Engine, Guide Bar, Saw Chain, Chain Brake, Throttle Trigger, Master Control Lever, Fuel Tank, Oil Tank, and Decompression Valve.

FeatureDescription
Engine2-stroke gasoline engine with electronic ignition (STIHL Ignition)
Guide BarAvailable in various lengths (e.g., 16", 18", 20")
Saw ChainSTIHL Oilomatic chain with safety features
Chain BrakeFront hand guard activates inertia chain brake for safety
Master Control LeverCombines choke, throttle lock, and stop functions
Decompression ValveReduces pulling force for easier starting
Anti-Vibration SystemReduces operator fatigue during extended use
Fuel Tank CapacityApprox. 0.55 US pt (0.26 l)
Oil Tank CapacityApprox. 0.42 US pt (0.20 l)
Weight (powerhead)Approx. 10.6 lbs (4.8 kg) without bar and chain

Safety Information

Read and understand all instructions before operation. Wear proper PPE.

  1. Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): Always wear safety glasses, hearing protection, gloves, chainsaw chaps/pants, and sturdy boots.
  2. Work Area Safety: Clear area of obstacles, ensure secure footing, and keep bystanders at a safe distance.
  3. Pre-Operation Check: Inspect chainsaw for damage, ensure chain is sharp and properly tensioned, and check all controls.
  4. Kickback Danger Zone: Be aware of the upper quadrant of the guide bar nose; avoid contact during cutting.

WARNING! Failure to follow safety instructions can result in serious injury or death. The chain brake is a safety device; test it before each use.

Assembly & First-Time Setup

Assemble guide bar and chain, fill with fuel and oil.

  1. Attach Guide Bar & Chain: Place bar on studs, loop chain over bar (cutting edges facing forward on top), adjust tension, and secure bar nuts.
  2. Fuel Mixture: Use high-quality 2-stroke engine oil mixed with unleaded gasoline (50:1 ratio for most STIHL oils). Shake well in separate can before filling.
  3. Fill Tanks: Fill fuel tank with mix. Fill oil tank with STIHL chain oil or equivalent.
  4. Initial Start: Place saw on clear ground, engage chain brake, set Master Control to cold start position, and follow starting procedure.

CAUTION! Fuel is highly flammable. Refuel in a well-ventilated area with engine off and cool. Wipe off any spills.

Specifications

Controls and Components

Master Control Lever: Combines stop switch (0), run position (I), cold start/choke position (⏚). Throttle Trigger: Controls engine speed. Throttle Trigger Lockout: Must be depressed to operate throttle. Chain Brake Lever: Front hand guard; activates brake when pushed forward. Decompression Valve: Button to press before starting to reduce cylinder pressure. Fuel & Oil Caps: For refilling. Muffler: Reduces exhaust noise and directs gases.

Operation: Always start with chain brake engaged. Use proper grip: right hand on rear handle, left hand on front handle. Let the saw do the work; do not force it.

Fuel & Lubrication

Use fresh, unleaded gasoline with a minimum octane rating of 89 (RON). Mix with a high-quality 2-stroke engine oil designed for air-cooled engines at a 50:1 ratio (for STIHL oil).

  1. Use a clean, approved fuel container.
  2. Add oil to gasoline, close container, and shake thoroughly.
  3. Fill fuel tank only to specified level; do not overfill.
  4. Use only specialized chain oil (high tack) in the oil tank for bar and chain lubrication.

Tip: Never use straight gasoline, old fuel mix (over 30 days), or motor oil. This will cause severe engine damage.

Starting & Operation

Follow precise steps for safe starting.

  1. Cold Start: Engage chain brake. Set Master Control to choke (⏚). Press decompression valve. Pull starter rope sharply until engine 'fires' (usually 1-3 pulls). Move Master Control to run (I). Pull starter rope again to start. Briefly blip throttle to disengage fast idle.
  2. Warm Start: Master Control already at (I). Pull starter rope.
  3. Cutting: Disengage chain brake by pulling back the front hand guard. Apply full throttle before entering cut. Use appropriate cutting techniques (bucking, felling, limbing).
  4. Stopping: Release throttle, allow engine to idle. Move Master Control to stop (0).

WARNING! Never drop-start or start the saw in a tree. Always start on the ground with clear footing and the chain brake engaged.

Maintenance Schedule

Regular maintenance ensures longevity and safety.

IntervalTask
Daily / Before UseCheck chain tension and sharpness; inspect for loose parts; clean air intake; check fuel and oil levels.
Every 10 HoursClean spark plug; check spark arrestor screen in muffler.
Every 20 HoursClean or replace air filter; check fuel filter.
Every 50 HoursClean cooling fins; check carburetor adjustment (by qualified technician).
Annually / 100 HrsReplace fuel line and filter if cracked; check anti-vibration elements.

CAUTION! All maintenance must be performed with the engine off, spark plug wire disconnected, and the saw cool.

Chain Sharpening & Tensioning

A sharp, properly tensioned chain is essential for safety and performance.

  1. Tensioning: Loosen bar nuts. Using scrench tool, turn tensioning screw until cutters just contact bar rail. Lift bar tip up. Tighten bar nuts securely. Re-check tension.
  2. Sharpening: Use correct round file size (typically 4.0mm / 5/32" for .325" chain). File at 30° angle, maintaining original cutter shape. File all cutters to equal length. File depth gauges (rakers) with a flat file and gauge.

WARNING! Wear heavy gloves when handling chain. A loose chain can derail; an overtightened chain can break or damage the engine.

Storage

For storage over 30 days, prepare the saw to prevent fuel system damage.

  1. Drain all fuel from the tank and run the engine until it stops to clear the carburetor.
  2. Remove, clean, and re-oil the air filter.
  3. Remove the chain, clean it in solvent, dry, and soak in oil. Clean the guide bar groove and oil hole.
  4. Store in a dry, secure place, out of reach of children.

CAUTION! Storing with fuel in the system can cause varnish buildup, clogging the carburetor.

Troubleshooting

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
Engine will not startNo fuel, flooded, bad spark, Master Control positionCheck fuel; set control to run (I) if flooded; check spark plug and gap; ensure decompression valve used.
Engine starts then diesClogged fuel filter, dirty air filter, carburetor adjustmentReplace fuel filter; clean air filter; have carburetor serviced.
Chain does not turnChain brake engaged, clutch worn, sprocket damagedDisengage chain brake; inspect clutch and sprocket for wear.
Excessive vibrationLoose components, unbalanced chain, damaged AV mountsTighten all nuts/bolts; balance chain; check anti-vibration system.
Chain throws oil but doesn't cutDull chain, improper filing, depth gauges too highSharpen chain correctly; file depth gauges to proper height.
Loss of powerClogged muffler screen, dirty air filter, old fuelClean spark arrestor screen; clean air filter; use fresh fuel mix.

Service: For repairs beyond basic maintenance, contact an authorized STIHL servicing dealer. Use only genuine STIHL parts.

Support: For your nearest dealer or manuals, visit www.stihlusa.com.

STIHL 024 Chainsaw User Manual © - All Rights Reserved 2025