stihl 010 av manual

The STIHL 010 AV is a professional-grade gasoline-powered chainsaw featuring anti-vibration (AV) technology, automatic chain oiling, and a reliable two-stroke engine. Designed for demanding cutting tasks, it offers durability, power, and user comfort. Below are key sections covering safety, features, operation, maintenance, troubleshooting, and technical specifications.

1. Features at a Glance 2. Safety Information 3. Assembly & Initial Setup 4. Specifications 5. Controls and Components 6. Starting & Stopping the Engine 7. Operation & Cutting Techniques 8. Maintenance Schedule 9. Chain & Bar Care 10. Storage Guidelines 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: Two-stroke engine with electronic ignition, Anti-Vibration (AV) system, automatic chain oiler, manual chain oiler override, safety throttle lock, chain brake, and ergonomic handles.

FeatureDescription
Anti-Vibration System (AV)Reduces operator fatigue by dampening engine vibrations
Automatic Chain OilerLubricates chain and bar during operation
Manual Oiler OverrideAllows additional lubrication for demanding cuts
Chain BrakeStops chain rotation in case of kickback
Safety Throttle LockPrevents accidental throttle engagement
Electronic IgnitionProvides reliable starting and consistent spark
Decompression ValveReduces compression for easier starting
Ergonomic HandlesDesigned for comfort and secure grip
Quickstop Inertia BrakeActivates chain brake automatically during kickback
Side-Access Chain TensionerAllows easy chain adjustment without tools

Safety Information

Always wear proper PPE: helmet with face shield, hearing protection, gloves, chainsaw chaps, and steel-toe boots.

  1. Inspect chainsaw before each use: Check chain tension, sharpness, and lubrication.
  2. Clear work area: Remove tripping hazards and ensure bystanders are at a safe distance.
  3. Hold firmly: Use both hands with thumbs wrapped around handles.
  4. Avoid kickback: Do not cut with the tip of the bar; maintain secure footing.

WARNING! Gasoline is highly flammable. Refuel only in well-ventilated area with engine off and cool. Never smoke near fuel.

Assembly & Initial Setup

Unpack and inspect all parts. Assemble guide bar and chain.

  1. Attach guide bar: Place bar onto studs, align chain sprocket, and install bar nuts finger-tight.
  2. Install chain: Ensure cutting teeth face forward on top of bar. Adjust tension.
  3. Fill fuel tank: Use fresh gasoline mixed with STIHL 2-stroke oil at 50:1 ratio.
  4. Fill oil tank: Use STIHL chain oil or equivalent for proper lubrication.
  5. Check controls: Verify throttle trigger, throttle lock, and chain brake function properly.

CAUTION! Chain must be properly tensioned—snug against bar but able to be pulled by hand.

Specifications

Controls and Components

Main controls located on rear handle and body. Front Handle: Chain brake lever, hand guard. Rear Handle: Throttle trigger, throttle lock, master control lever (choke/run/stop).

Master Control Lever Positions: STOP (0) - engine off; RUN (I) - normal operation; CHOKE (II) - cold start. Chain Brake: Push forward to engage (stop chain); pull back to disengage. Throttle Lock: Must be depressed before throttle can be engaged.

Starting & Stopping the Engine

Starting Procedure (Cold Engine):

  1. Engage chain brake by pushing lever forward.
  2. Set master control lever to CHOKE (II).
  3. Press decompression valve (if equipped).
  4. Place saw on ground, hold rear handle with right foot, pull starter rope sharply until engine fires.
  5. Move master control to RUN (I) and pull starter rope to start.
  6. Allow brief warm-up at idle before disengaging chain brake.

Stopping: Move master control lever to STOP (0).

Tip: For warm restart, set master control to RUN (I) only.

Operation & Cutting Techniques

Basic Cutting: Use full throttle during cut; let chain do the work.

  1. Felling: Use proper notch and back cut techniques. Plan escape path.
  2. Limbing: Work from trunk outward; support limbs when possible.
  3. Bucking: Support log off ground; avoid cutting into dirt.
  4. Pruning: Cut branches in sections; be aware of spring-back.

WARNING! Never operate chainsaw above shoulder height or on a ladder. Beware of kickback zone (upper quadrant of bar tip).

Maintenance Schedule

Daily/Before Use: Check chain tension, sharpness, lubrication; inspect for loose fasteners; clean air intake.

Weekly: Clean spark arrestor screen; check fuel filter; clean cooling fins.

Monthly: Replace air filter; inspect spark plug; check anti-vibration elements.

Annually: Replace fuel filter; clean carburetor; inspect clutch and sprocket.

Chain & Bar Care

Sharpening: Use round file matching chain pitch (typically 4.0 mm). Maintain correct filing angle (30°).

Bar Maintenance: Clean bar groove regularly; flip bar periodically for even wear.

Lubrication: Always use proper chain oil; check oil flow by running saw briefly over light-colored surface.

CAUTION! Dull chain increases kickback risk and operator fatigue. Always stop engine before adjusting or servicing chain.

Storage Guidelines

Long-term Storage (over 30 days):

  1. Drain fuel tank and run engine until it stops to clear carburetor.
  2. Remove chain, clean, and soak in oil.
  3. Clean entire saw, especially cooling fins and air filter.
  4. Store in dry, dust-free location, away from ignition sources.

WARNING! Never store with fuel in tank for extended periods—fuel deterioration can damage carburetor.

Troubleshooting

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
Engine won't startFuel issues, spark plug, floodedCheck fuel mix; clean/replace spark plug; set choke to RUN and pull with throttle open.
Engine runs poorlyDirty air filter, carburetorClean/replace air filter; adjust carburetor (H/L screws).
Chain doesn't oilClogged oil passages, empty tankClean oil ports; refill with proper oil; check oil pump.
Excessive vibrationLoose components, worn AV mountsTighten all fasteners; inspect anti-vibration elements.
Chain won't stopChain brake malfunctionClean brake band and mechanism; replace if worn.
OverheatingDull chain, insufficient lubricationSharpen chain; check oil flow; clean cooling fins.

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

Support: STIHL Incorporated, 1-800-467-8445; www.stihlusa.com

STIHL 010 AV Chainsaw User Manual © - All Rights Reserved 2025