stihl 026 chainsaw manual

The STIHL 026 is a professional-grade gasoline chainsaw designed for demanding forestry, landscaping, and cutting applications. It features a powerful engine, anti-vibration system, quickstop chain brake, STIHL Ematic lubrication system, and a decompression valve for easier starting. Below are key sections for safety, features, assembly, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

Features at a Glance

Key components: Engine, guide bar, saw chain, chain brake lever, throttle trigger, master control lever, fuel and oil caps, spark plug, air filter, and muffler.

Feature	Description
Engine Displacement	Approx. 49.4 cm³ (3.0 cu. in.)
Power Output	High-performance 2-stroke engine
Anti-Vibration System	Reduces operator fatigue
Quickstop Chain Brake	Inertia-activated safety feature
STIHL Ematic System	Efficient chain lubrication
Decompression Valve	Eases starting effort
Master Control Lever	Combines choke, throttle lock, stop switch
Fuel Tank Capacity	Approx. 0.5 liters (16.9 fl. oz.)
Oil Tank Capacity	Approx. 0.26 liters (8.8 fl. oz.)
Recommended Bar Length	Typically 16" to 20"

Safety Information

Read and understand all safety warnings before operation.

1. Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): Always wear chainsaw chaps, safety glasses, hearing protection, gloves, and sturdy boots.
2. Work Area Safety: Keep bystanders and pets at a safe distance. Ensure secure footing.
3. Kickback Awareness: Be aware of the kickback zone (upper quadrant of bar tip). Use reduced-kickback chain and bar.
4. Chain Brake: Test chain brake function before each use.

WARNING! Improper use can cause serious or fatal injury. Never operate with one hand, above shoulder height, or on a ladder.

Assembly & Preparation

Assemble the chainsaw from the box for first-time use.

1. Attach Guide Bar & Chain: Place bar on studs, loop chain over bar with cutters facing forward, tension correctly.
2. Fill Fluids: Use STIHL MotoMix or 50:1 fuel/oil mixture. Fill chain oil reservoir with STIHL chain oil.
3. Check Chain Tension: Chain should be snug against bar but pull freely by hand.
4. Inspect All Components: Ensure all nuts, bolts, and handles are secure.

CAUTION! Use only STIHL-approved fuels, oils, and replacement parts. Incorrect mixtures can damage engine.

Specifications

• Model: STIHL 026.
• Engine Type: Single cylinder, 2-stroke, air-cooled.
• Displacement: 49.4 cm³.
• Powerhead Weight: Approx. 5.2 kg (11.5 lbs) without bar and chain.
• Fuel/Oil Ratio: 50:1 (STIHL 2-stroke oil).
• Ignition System: Electronic, breakerless.
• Chain Pitch/Gauge: Typically 3/8" PM or .325", 1.6 mm (.063") gauge.
• Sound Power Level: Complies with relevant directives (check local manual).
• Vibration Levels: Front/rear handles measured per ISO standards.

Controls and Components

Familiarize yourself with all controls before starting.

Right Side: Throttle trigger, throttle trigger lockout, rear handle, master control lever (choke, run, stop). Left Side: Chain brake lever (front hand guard), oil filler cap, decompression valve (if equipped). Top/Front: Fuel filler cap, spark plug, air filter cover, muffler, guide bar, chain tensioner.

Master Control Lever Positions: (1) Stop (0): Engine off. (2) Run (I): Normal operation. (3) Choke (⏚): For cold starting. Chain Brake: Push forward to engage (stop chain), pull back toward operator to disengage.

Starting & Stopping Procedure

Always start on clear, level ground.

1. Cold Start: Engage chain brake. Set master control to choke (⏚). Press decompression valve (if equipped). Pull starter rope sharply until engine fires. Move control lever to run (I). Pull starter rope again to start. Briefly blip throttle to disengage fast idle.
2. Warm Start: Set master control to run (I). Pull starter rope.
3. Stopping: Release throttle. Move master control to stop (0).

Tip: Never drop-start the saw. Always hold firmly with both hands.

Operation & Cutting Techniques

Use proper stance and grip for control and safety.

1. Basic Stance: Feet shoulder-width apart, left foot slightly forward.
2. Grip: Hold rear handle with right hand, front handle with left hand, thumbs wrapped underneath.
3. Felling: Plan escape path. Use proper notch and back cut techniques.
4. Limbing: Work from trunk outward. Support limb if possible.
5. Bucking: Support log off ground. Use pivot points to avoid pinching.
6. Kickback Prevention: Do not let bar tip contact any object. Maintain high chain speed when cutting.

WARNING! Beware of pinch, pull-in, and pushback reactions. Always plan your cut.

Maintenance Schedule

Regular maintenance ensures performance and longevity.

Interval	Task
Daily/Before Use	Check chain tension, sharpness, and lubrication. Inspect for loose parts. Clean air filter if dirty.
Every 5 Hours	Clean spark arrestor screen in muffler (if equipped).
Every 20 Hours	Replace spark plug. Clean cylinder fins. Check fuel filter.
Every 100 Hours	Clean combustion chamber. Check all rubber mounts and anti-vibration elements.
Annually	Have saw inspected by an authorized STIHL servicing dealer.

Chain Sharpening & Tensioning

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

1. Sharpening: Use correct round file size (typically 4.0mm or 4.8mm). Maintain factory filing angle (usually 30°). File all cutters to equal length. File depth gauges (rakers) with a flat file and gauge.
2. Tensioning: Loosen bar nuts. Adjust tensioning screw until chain is snug against bar but can be pulled around by hand. Tighten bar nuts while lifting bar tip. Re-check tension.

CAUTION! Always wear gloves when handling chain. Chain tension increases when hot; check frequently during initial use.

Storage Guidelines

Prepare saw for storage to prevent fuel system issues.

1. Short-term (under 4 weeks): Store in a dry place.
2. Long-term: Drain fuel tank and run engine until it stops to clear carburetor. Remove chain and bar, clean and oil them. Store in a dry, dust-free location.

CAUTION! Never store saw with fuel in the tank for extended periods. Fuel can degrade and clog the carburetor.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
Engine will not start	No spark, flooded, old fuel	Check spark plug, use fresh fuel, follow correct starting procedure.
Engine starts then dies	Clogged fuel filter, dirty air filter	Replace fuel filter, clean air filter.
Chain does not turn	Chain brake engaged, clutch worn	Disengage chain brake, inspect clutch and drum.
Poor cutting performance	Dull chain, improper lubrication	Sharpen chain, check oiler and oil tank.
Excessive vibration	Loose components, damaged AV mounts	Tighten all nuts/bolts, inspect anti-vibration elements.
Chain throws oil	Over-oiling, wrong oil viscosity	Check oiler setting, use correct STIHL chain oil.

Service: For repairs beyond basic maintenance, contact an authorized STIHL dealer.

Support: Refer to your local STIHL dealer or www.stihlusa.com for parts and manuals.