039 Stihl Chainsaw Manual

The Stihl 039 is a professional-grade gasoline-powered chainsaw designed for demanding cutting tasks. It features a powerful engine, robust construction, automatic chain oiling, anti-vibration system, and safety features like a chain brake and throttle lockout. Below are key sections for safety, features, operation, maintenance, troubleshooting, and specifications.

Features at a Glance

Key components: Engine, Guide Bar, Saw Chain, Chain Brake, Throttle Trigger, Master Control Lever, Fuel and Oil Tanks, Anti-Vibration System.

Safety Information

Read and understand 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. Pre-Operation Check: Inspect saw for damage, ensure chain is sharp and properly tensioned, check fuel and oil levels.
3. Operating Zone: Keep bystanders and pets at least 15 feet away.
4. Kickback Awareness: Hold saw firmly with both hands; do not cut with the tip of the bar.

WARNING! Failure to follow safety instructions can result in serious injury or death. The chain brake is a safety device, not a substitute for safe operation.

Assembly & Initial Setup

Unpack and inspect contents. Assemble guide bar and chain.

1. Attach Guide Bar & Chain: Place bar on studs, loop chain over sprocket and onto bar groove, adjust tension.
2. Fill Fluids: Use STIHL 2-stroke engine oil mixed with gasoline (50:1 ratio). Fill bar and chain oil reservoir with STIHL chain oil.
3. Initial Start: Set Master Control Lever to choke (cold start), pull starter rope until engine fires, move lever to run position, restart.
4. Chain Tension Check: Run saw for a minute, stop engine, and re-check chain tension.

CAUTION! Use only STIHL-approved oils and fuel mixtures. Improper fuel can damage the engine.

Specifications

• Model: STIHL 039
• Engine Type: 2-stroke, single cylinder
• Displacement: 64.1 cc
• Power Output: Approx. 4.0 HP
• Fuel Tank Capacity: Approx. 0.95 US pints (450 ml)
• Oil Tank Capacity: Approx. 0.63 US pints (300 ml)
• Idle Speed: 2,800 RPM
• Max Engine Speed: 13,500 RPM
• Weight (without bar & chain): Approx. 13.2 lbs (6.0 kg)
• Recommended Bar Lengths: 16", 18", 20"
• Chain Pitch/Gauge: 3/8" PM / .050" (1.3 mm)

Controls and Components

Access controls on the rear handle and body. Front Handle: Includes chain brake lever. Rear Handle: Throttle trigger, throttle lockout, Master Control Lever.

Master Control Lever Positions: STOP (0), RUN (I), CHOKE (for cold start).

Chain Brake: Manual engagement via front hand guard; inertia-activated during kickback. Decompression Valve: Press to reduce cylinder pressure for easier starting. Chain Tensioner: Adjusts via side-mounted screw. Oil Flow Adjuster: Controls automatic chain oiling rate.

Operation Guide

Starting, cutting techniques, and shutdown procedure.

1. Starting (Cold): Engage chain brake. Set Master Control to CHOKE. Press decompression valve. Pull starter rope sharply until engine fires. Move lever to RUN. Pull again to start.
2. Starting (Warm): Set lever to RUN and pull starter.
3. Basic Cutting: Hold saw firmly. Use full throttle when cutting. Let chain do the work; do not force.
4. Shutdown: Release throttle, allow engine to idle briefly. Move Master Control Lever to STOP (0).

Tip: Always engage the chain brake when carrying the saw or when not actively cutting.

Maintenance Schedule

Supports long life with regular maintenance.

1. Daily/Before Use: Check chain tension and sharpness. Check fuel and oil levels. Inspect for loose fasteners or damage.
2. Weekly/Every 10 Hours: Clean air filter. Check spark plug condition. Clean external cooling fins and guide bar groove.
3. Monthly/Every 50 Hours: Clean fuel filter. Check clutch and sprocket wear. Clean spark arrestor screen (if equipped).
4. Annually/Off-Season: Full professional servicing recommended. Replace fuel lines and filters as needed.

WARNING! Perform maintenance only when the engine is off and cool. Disconnect the spark plug wire for safety.

Chain Sharpening & Tensioning

Proper chain condition is critical for safety and performance.

Chain Tensioning: Loosen bar nuts. Adjust tensioning screw until chain fits snugly against bar but can be pulled around by hand. Tighten bar nuts. Re-check tension after a test run.

Sharpening: Use a round file matching chain pitch (typically 5/32" or 4.0mm). Maintain correct filing angle (usually 30°). File all cutters to equal length. File depth gauges (rakers) with a flat file and gauge.

Storage Guidelines

Prepare saw for storage to prevent fuel system issues.

1. Drain all fuel from the tank and run the engine until it stops to clear the carburetor.
2. Remove, clean, and re-oil the air filter.
3. Remove the chain, clean it, and store it in oil. Clean the guide bar groove and sprocket.
4. Store in a dry, clean place, protected from dust and moisture.

CAUTION! Never store the saw with fuel in the tank for more than 30 days. Old fuel can gum up the carburetor.

Warranty Information

STIHL Limited Warranty: Covers defects in materials and workmanship for a specified period from date of retail purchase. Warranty is valid only for the original purchaser with proof of purchase from an authorized STIHL dealer. Does not cover damage from misuse, neglect, improper maintenance, or use of non-STIHL parts/fuel. For warranty service, contact the authorized STIHL dealer where the product was purchased.

Troubleshooting

Service: For repairs beyond basic maintenance, take your STIHL 039 to an authorized STIHL servicing dealer.

Support: Contact your local STIHL dealer or visit www.stihlusa.com