032 AV Stihl Chainsaw Manual

The Stihl 032 AV is a professional-grade gasoline chainsaw featuring anti-vibration (AV) technology, designed for demanding cutting tasks. This manual covers essential safety procedures, technical specifications, assembly instructions, operation guidelines, maintenance schedules, troubleshooting, and parts identification to ensure safe and efficient use of your chainsaw.

Safety Warnings & Precautions

Chainsaws are dangerous tools. Failure to follow safety instructions can result in serious injury or death.

Specifications & Features

• Model: Stihl 032 AV
• Engine Type: Single-cylinder, two-stroke, air-cooled gasoline engine.
• Displacement: 54.0 cc (3.3 cu. in.)
• Power Output: High-performance engine for professional cutting.
• Fuel/Oil Mix: 50:1 ratio (Stihl HP Ultra oil recommended).
• Guide Bar Lengths: Compatible with 16" to 20" Stihl guide bars.
• Chain Pitch/Gauge: .325" pitch, .063" gauge (standard).
• Anti-Vibration System: Integrated AV handles to reduce operator fatigue.
• Ignition System: Electronic ignition (CDI).
• Weight (Powerhead): Approximately 6.2 kg (13.7 lbs).

Assembly & Initial Setup

Assemble your chainsaw correctly before first use.

1. Attach Guide Bar & Chain: Place the chain on the guide bar, ensuring cutting teeth face forward on top. Fit the bar onto the studs. Adjust the chain tension via the side knob before fully tightening the bar nuts.
2. Fill Bar & Chain Oil: Use Stihl chain oil or a quality substitute. Fill the oil tank completely.
3. Prepare Fuel Mix: Mix high-octane unleaded gasoline with Stihl 2-stroke oil at a 50:1 ratio in an approved fuel can. Shake well. Fill the fuel tank.
4. Check Controls: Ensure the chain brake functions by pushing the front hand guard forward (brake ON) and pulling back toward the handle (brake OFF).

WARNING! Never operate the saw without proper chain tension and lubrication. This will cause rapid wear and can lead to chain breakage.

Controls & Components

Familiarize yourself with all controls before starting the engine.

Fuel & Lubrication

Using the correct fluids is critical for performance and engine life.

1. Fuel: Use fresh, unleaded gasoline with a minimum octane rating of 89. Mix with a high-quality 2-stroke engine oil at a 50:1 ratio. Do not use automotive oil or old fuel mix.
2. Bar & Chain Oil: Use a specially formulated chainsaw bar oil for proper adhesion. In cold weather, use a winter-grade oil.
3. Filling Procedure: Clean area around caps. Fill tanks on a level surface. Securely tighten caps. Wipe away any spills.

CAUTION! Fuel is highly flammable. Store fuel in an approved container away from sparks, heat, and open flame.

Starting & Stopping Procedure

Cold Start:

1. Place saw on firm, level ground. Engage the chain brake.
2. Press the decompression valve (if equipped).
3. Set Master Control lever to START/CHOKE position (full up).
4. Press the throttle trigger interlock and squeeze the throttle trigger once. Release.
5. Pull starter rope briskly until engine 'fires' (usually 3-5 pulls).
6. Immediately move Master Control lever to RUN position (down).
7. Pull starter rope again until engine starts. Allow to idle briefly.
8. Disengage chain brake by pulling hand guard back toward you.

Warm Start: Set Master Control lever directly to RUN position and pull starter.

Stopping: Release throttle, allow engine to idle, then move Master Control lever to STOP (0).

Operating Instructions

Proper technique ensures safety and efficiency.

1. Stance: Stand with feet shoulder-width apart, firm footing. Hold saw with both hands, right hand on rear handle, left on front.
2. Basic Cutting: Let the saw do the work. Use the bumper spikes (dogs) to pivot into the wood. Do not force the saw.
3. Buckling (Cutting Logs): Support log off the ground. Cut from top down. For large logs, cut 1/3 from top, then roll and finish from opposite side to avoid pinching.
4. Felling Trees: For professionals only. Requires proper notch and back cut. Always plan an escape path at a 45-degree angle away from the fall.
5. Kickback Avoidance: Maintain a firm grip. Do not cut with the upper tip (nose) of the bar. Be aware of wood tension and release.

Chain & Guide Bar Maintenance

Regular maintenance of the cutting system is essential.

• Chain Sharpening: Use a round file matching the chain's pitch (e.g., 4.0mm for .325" chain). Maintain the correct filing angle (typically 30°). File all cutters to the same length. File depth gauges (rakers) with a flat file and gauge.
• Chain Tension: Check frequently when hot and cold. Correct tension: The chain should snap back against the bar when pulled away, but still be loose enough to pull by hand along the bar.
• Guide Bar Care: Regularly clean the bar groove and oil holes. Flip the bar over each time you sharpen the chain to ensure even wear. Dress the bar rails with a flat file if burred.
• Lubrication Check: Run the saw at high speed with the tip of the bar pointed at a light-colored surface (like a stump). A fine line of oil should be visible, indicating the oiler is working.

Regular Maintenance Schedule

Troubleshooting Guide

Parts Diagram & List

Refer to the official Stihl 032 AV Parts Manual (PN 0000 950 4301) for a complete illustrated breakdown and part numbers. Key assemblies include:

1. Cylinder & Piston Group
2. Crankcase & Crankshaft
3. Carburetor & Air Filter System
4. Ignition System (Flywheel, Coil)
5. Clutch, Sprocket & Chain Brake Assembly
6. Oil Pump & Tank
7. Fuel Tank & Handle Assembly
8. Guide Bar & Chain
9. Anti-Vibration Elements
10. Covers & Housing

Service Note: Major repairs should be performed by an authorized Stihl servicing dealer.

For Technical Support & Genuine Parts: Contact your local authorized Stihl dealer or visit www.stihlusa.com.