The STIHL 032 AV is a professional-grade gasoline chainsaw featuring Anti-Vibration (AV) technology, a powerful engine, and durable construction for demanding forestry and cutting tasks. This manual covers safety instructions, technical specifications, assembly, operation, maintenance, troubleshooting, and spare parts information for the STIHL 032 AV chainsaw.
Read and understand all instructions before operating the chainsaw. Failure to follow warnings can result in serious injury or death.
| Hazard | Precaution |
|---|---|
| Kickback | Always hold saw firmly with both hands; use reduced-kickback chain; do not saw with tip. |
| Hearing Damage | Wear approved hearing protection during operation. |
| Eye Injury | Always wear safety glasses or face shield. |
| Fire/Explosion | Refuel in well-ventilated area with engine off and cool. No smoking. |
| Vibration | Take regular breaks to reduce risk of Hand-Arm Vibration Syndrome (HAVS). |
WARNING! Never operate a chainsaw when fatigued, under the influence, or in poor weather conditions.
Assemble the chainsaw before first use. Ensure all parts are present and undamaged.
CAUTION! Always wear protective gloves when handling the chain. Chain is extremely sharp.
Familiarize yourself with all controls before starting the engine.
Main Components: Front Handguard, Throttle Trigger, Throttle Trigger Lockout, Stop Switch, Choke Lever, Decompression Valve (if equipped), Master Control Lever (combines choke/run/stop), Fuel Tank Cap, Oil Tank Cap, Chain Brake Lever, Chain Catcher, Muffler, Spark Plug.
Operation: Master Control Lever sets starting (choke), run, and stop positions. Throttle Trigger Lockout must be depressed before throttle can be engaged. Chain Brake stops chain rotation instantly if activated manually or by kickback.
Use correct fuel and oil mixtures to ensure performance and longevity.
WARNING! Gasoline is highly flammable. Refuel outdoors, away from ignition sources.
Follow the correct cold and warm starting procedure.
Tip: Place saw on firm ground, hold front handle with left hand, place right foot in rear handle for stability when starting.
Proper technique ensures safety and efficiency.
WARNING! Never operate chainsaw above shoulder height or with one hand.
Regular maintenance is critical for safe operation.
| Interval | Task |
|---|---|
| Daily / Before Use | Check chain tension, sharpness, and lubrication. Inspect for loose parts or damage. |
| Every 10 Hours | Clean air filter. Check spark plug condition. |
| Every 20 Hours | Clean cooling fins, check fuel filter, clean chain brake mechanism. |
| Every 100 Hours | Replace fuel filter, clean carburetor (or as needed), check clutch and sprocket. |
| Annually | Professional inspection recommended. |
A sharp chain reduces effort and risk.
CAUTION! Secure the bar in a vise before sharpening. Wear cut-resistant gloves.
| Symptom | Possible Cause | Corrective Action |
|---|---|---|
| Engine will not start | No spark, flooded, stale fuel, clogged filter | Check spark plug, use fresh fuel, clean air filter, move choke to run if flooded. |
| Engine runs poorly, lacks power | Dirty air filter, clogged fuel filter, carburetor adjustment, muffler screen clogged | Clean/replace filters. Clean muffler spark arrestor screen. Adjust carburetor (H/L screws). |
| Chain does not turn | Chain brake engaged, clutch worn, sprocket damaged, chain too tight | Disengage chain brake. Inspect clutch drum and sprocket. Loosen chain tension. |
| Excessive vibration | Loose components, unbalanced chain, damaged AV mounts | Tighten all bolts/nuts. Check chain sharpness. Inspect anti-vibration elements. |
| Chain throws oil but does not cut | Dull chain, depth gauges too high | Sharpen chain and set depth gauges correctly. |
Use only genuine STIHL replacement parts to ensure safety and performance.
Note: This manual is a summary. Always refer to the complete, original STIHL instruction manual for your specific saw.