Stihl Chainsaw 031AV Owner's Manual

The Stihl 031AV is a professional-grade gasoline-powered chainsaw featuring an anti-vibration (AV) system, manual oiling, automatic chain brake (where equipped), and a reliable two-stroke engine. Designed for demanding cutting tasks, it requires proper fuel mixture, regular maintenance, and safe operation procedures. Below are key sections covering safety, features, assembly, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

Features at a Glance

Key components: Two-stroke engine, anti-vibration system, manual chain oiler, chain brake (on specific models), adjustable oil pump, and decompression valve for easier starting.

Safety Information

Read and understand all instructions before operation. Always 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, keep bystanders at a safe distance.
3. Fuel Safety: Mix fuel outdoors, use approved gasoline and Stihl 2-stroke oil at 50:1 ratio (check manual for exact spec). Store fuel in approved container.
4. Kickback Danger: Be aware of the kickback zone (upper quadrant of bar nose). Maintain a firm grip, do not overreach, and use a reduced-kickback chain.
5. Chain Brake: Test the chain brake function before each use.

WARNING! Failure to follow safety rules can result in serious injury or death. Never operate a chainsaw while fatigued or under the influence.

Assembly & Preparation

Assemble the guide bar and chain, and prepare the fuel mixture.

1. Attach Guide Bar & Chain: Place the chain on the bar, ensuring cutting teeth face forward on top. Fit the bar onto the studs, align chain with sprocket, and tension correctly before tightening bar nuts.
2. Fuel & Oil: Mix unleaded gasoline (min. 89 octane) with Stihl HP Ultra or equivalent 2-stroke oil at a 50:1 ratio (2.6 oz oil per 1 gallon gas). Shake well. Fill the fuel tank. Fill the separate chain oil tank with Stihl chain oil or equivalent.
3. Chain Tension: Adjust chain tension so it snaps back against the bar when pulled away, but can still be rotated by hand. Re-tension when chain is cold after initial use.

CAUTION! Ensure the chain brake is disengaged (pulled back toward front handle) before starting.

Specifications

• Model: 031 AV
• Engine Power: Approx. 3.0 bhp
• Idle Speed: 2,800 rpm
• Maximum Power Speed: 8,000 rpm
• Spark Plug: Bosch WSR6F or equivalent, gap 0.020" (0.5 mm)
• Carburetor: Tillotson HS or equivalent, adjustable
• Fuel/Oil Ratio: 50:1 (Gasoline to 2-Stroke Oil)
• Recommended Bar Lengths: 16", 18", 20"
• Sound Power Level: Approx. 112 dB(A) - Hearing protection essential.

Controls and Components

Familiarize yourself with all controls before starting.

Main Components: Front Handle with Throttle Trigger, Rear Handle, Master Control Lever (combines choke, throttle lock, stop switch), Decompression Valve, Chain Brake Lever, Manual Oiler Pump, Chain Tensioner, Fuel & Oil Tank Caps.

Master Control Lever Positions: - Stop (0): Engine off. - Run (I): Normal operation. - Choke (II): For cold starting (full choke). - Half-Throttle Lock (III): For warm starting or fast idle.

Starting & Stopping Procedure

Cold Start:

1. Place saw on firm, flat ground. Engage chain brake.
2. Press decompression valve (if equipped).
3. Set Master Control to Choke (II).
4. Pump primer bulb (if equipped) 5-6 times.
5. Hold front handle with left hand, place right foot in rear handle. Pull starter rope sharply until engine 'pops'.
6. Move Master Control to Half-Throttle Lock (III). Pull starter rope again until engine starts.
7. Blip throttle to disengage fast idle. Disengage chain brake before cutting.

Warm Start: Set Master Control to Half-Throttle Lock (III) and pull starter.

Stopping: Release throttle, let engine idle, move Master Control to Stop (0).

Operation & Cutting Techniques

1. Basic Stance: Stand with feet shoulder-width apart, left foot slightly forward. Hold front handle with left hand, rear handle with right hand.
2. Felling (Cutting Down a Tree): Plan escape path. Make notch cut (1/3 tree diameter) on falling side. Make felling cut from opposite side, leaving hinge wood.
3. Limbing & Bucking: Cut from top of log, let saw do the work. For bucking, support log properly to avoid pinching the bar.
4. Manual Oiling: Press the oiler pump button on the front handle periodically during cutting to lubricate the bar and chain.
5. Avoiding Pinch: Be aware of log tension. Use wedges if needed. Do not force the saw.

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

Maintenance Schedule

Chain Sharpening & Tensioning

Sharpening: Use a round file matching chain pitch (e.g., 5/32" for 3/8" chain). File each cutter at the manufacturer's specified angle (typically 30°). Maintain equal length on all cutters. File depth gauges with a flat file and gauge.

Tensioning: Loosen bar nuts. Turn tensioning screw clockwise until chain is snug against bar bottom. Pull chain around bar by hand; it should move freely. Tighten bar nuts securely. Re-check tension when chain is cold after first few minutes of use.

Storage

1. Long-Term Storage: Drain all fuel from tank and carburetor. Run engine until it stops to clear fuel system.
2. Remove chain and bar, clean and soak in oil.
3. Clean entire saw, especially cooling fins and air filter.
4. Store in a dry, dust-free place, covered.

CAUTION! Never store a chainsaw with fuel in the tank for more than 30 days. Old fuel can damage engine components.

Troubleshooting

Service: For major repairs or carburetor adjustment, consult an authorized Stihl servicing dealer.

Parts & Support: Contact your local Stihl dealer or visit www.stihlusa.com