stihl 08s chainsaw manual

The STIHL 08S is a professional-grade gasoline chainsaw designed for demanding cutting tasks. It features a robust engine, anti-vibration system, automatic chain oiling, and safety mechanisms like a chain brake and throttle lockout. Below are key sections covering safety, features, assembly, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting for optimal performance and user safety.

Features at a Glance

Key components: Engine, guide bar, cutting chain, anti-vibration handles, chain brake, throttle lockout, automatic and manual chain oiling system.

Feature	Description
Engine Type	Two-stroke, single-cylinder gasoline engine
Displacement	Specific to 08S model (e.g., 31.8 cc)
Guide Bar Length	Typically 12" to 16" (varies by configuration)
Chain Pitch/Gauge	.325" pitch, .063" gauge (common)
Anti-Vibration System	Reduces operator fatigue
Chain Brake	Inertia-activated safety feature to stop chain
Throttle Lockout	Prevents accidental throttle engagement
Oiling System	Automatic with manual override
Fuel Tank Capacity	Approx. 0.5 liters
Oil Tank Capacity	Approx. 0.25 liters

Safety Instructions

Read all instructions before use. Always wear proper PPE.

1. Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): Wear safety glasses, hearing protection, gloves, chainsaw chaps, and sturdy boots.
2. Work Area Safety: Keep bystanders and pets at least 15 feet away. Ensure secure footing.
3. Chain Brake Check: Verify chain brake functions before each use.
4. Kickback Awareness: Be aware of kickback zone; do not cut with tip of bar.

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

Assembly & Preparation

Assemble the chainsaw and prepare the fuel mixture.

1. Attach Guide Bar and Chain: Place bar on studs, loop chain onto sprocket and bar groove, tension chain correctly.
2. Fuel Mix: Use high-quality 2-stroke engine oil mixed with unleaded gasoline at 50:1 ratio (check manual for exact spec). Shake well.
3. Fill Tanks: Fill fuel tank with mix. Fill oil tank with STIHL chain oil or equivalent.
4. Check Chain Tension: Chain should be snug against bar but pull freely by hand.

CAUTION! Use only specified fuel/oil mix. Improper mix can cause engine damage.

Specifications

• Model: STIHL 08S
• Engine Displacement: 31.8 cc (example)
• Power Output: Approx. 1.5 kW
• Weight (powerhead): Approx. 4.6 kg
• Fuel/Oil Mix Ratio: 50:1 (STIHL 2-stroke oil)
• Ignition System: Electronic, breakerless
• Chain Speed: Up to 16 m/s at max power
• Sound Pressure Level: Approx. 105 dB(A) - hearing protection required
• Vibration Level: Front/rear handle values per ISO standards

Controls and Components

Master the location and function of all controls.

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

Master Control Lever Positions: STOP (0): Engine off. RUN (I): Normal operation. START/CHOKE (⏀): Cold start position. Chain Brake: Push front hand guard forward to engage brake; pull back to disengage.

Starting & Stopping Procedure

Follow correct procedure to start and stop engine safely.

1. Cold Start: Engage chain brake. Set master control to START/CHOKE. Press decompression valve (if equipped). Pull starter rope sharply until engine 'fires'. Move master control to RUN. Pull starter rope again to start.
2. Warm Start: Master control directly to RUN position. Pull starter rope.
3. Stopping: Release throttle, let engine idle briefly. Move master control to STOP (0).

Tip: Always engage chain brake when starting or carrying the saw over short distances.

Operation & Cutting Techniques

Proper techniques ensure efficiency and safety.

1. Basic Stance: Firm footing, feet apart. Hold saw securely: left hand on front handle, right on rear.
2. Kickback Avoidance: Do not cut with upper tip of bar. Be aware of wood tension and binding.
3. Felling Trees: Plan escape path. Make notch cut and felling cut. Use wedges if needed.
4. Limbing & Bucking: Support log off ground. Cut from top side when possible. Beware of pinch points.
5. Using the Chain Brake: Test frequently. Engage manually by pushing hand guard forward if kickback occurs or when moving.

WARNING! Never operate chainsaw above shoulder height or with one hand.

Maintenance Schedule

Regular maintenance ensures longevity and safe operation.

Interval	Task
Daily/Before Use	Check chain tension, sharpness, and brake function. Check fuel/oil levels.
Every 5 Hours	Clean air filter. Check spark plug condition.
Every 20 Hours	Clean spark arrestor screen (if equipped). Check all nuts/bolts for tightness.
Seasonally/Annually	Replace fuel filter. Clean cooling fins. Professional servicing recommended.

Chain & Bar Care

Proper care of cutting components is critical.

1. Sharpening: Use correct round file and guide. Maintain correct filing angle (typically 30°). File all cutters evenly.
2. Depth Gauges: File down depth gauges (rakers) with flat file to maintain proper height difference.
3. Bar Maintenance: Clean bar groove regularly. Flip bar weekly for even wear. Lubricate sprocket nose.
4. Tensioning: Chain should be tensioned when cold. Correct tension: snug against bar but pull freely.

CAUTION! Always wear gloves when handling chain. A sharp chain is safer than a dull one.

Storage Guidelines

Prepare chainsaw for short or long-term storage.

1. Short-term (1-2 months): Run engine dry of fuel or add fuel stabilizer.
2. Long-term: Drain all fuel from tank and carburetor. Run engine until it stops. Remove chain, clean and oil it. Store in dry place.
3. Battery (if electric start): Remove and charge/store per instructions.

WARNING! Never store saw with fuel in tank for extended periods without stabilizer. Fuel degrades and can damage carburetor.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
Engine won't start	No fuel, flooded, bad spark plug, master control position	Check fuel, set control to RUN, check spark plug, avoid flooding.
Engine runs poorly/dies	Dirty air filter, clogged fuel filter, carburetor adjustment	Clean/replace air filter. Replace fuel filter. Consult dealer for carb adjustment.
Chain doesn't turn	Chain brake engaged, clutch/drum issues, chain too tight	Disengage chain brake. Check clutch assembly. Loosen chain tension.
Chain throws oil but doesn't cut	Dull chain, depth gauges too high	Sharpen chain. File depth gauges to correct height.
Excessive vibration	Loose components, unbalanced chain, damaged AV mounts	Tighten all nuts/bolts. Check chain sharpness. Inspect anti-vibration elements.

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

Support: Refer to official STIHL website or contact your local STIHL dealer.