Stihl 011 AV Manual

The Stihl 011 AV is a professional-grade gasoline-powered chainsaw designed for demanding cutting tasks. It features the reliable Stihl 2-stroke engine, Anti-Vibration (AV) system for reduced operator fatigue, automatic chain oiling, quick-stop chain brake, and a range of safety and performance features. Below are key sections for safety, features, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

Features at a Glance

Key components: Stihl 2-stroke engine, Anti-Vibration system, automatic chain oiler, quick-stop chain brake, decompression valve, side-access chain tensioner, and ergonomic handles.

Feature	Description
Engine Type	Stihl single-cylinder 2-stroke gasoline engine
Anti-Vibration System	Reduces vibration transfer to operator's hands
Automatic Chain Oiler	Lubricates chain during operation
Quick-Stop Chain Brake	Stops chain rotation in kickback situations
Decompression Valve	Reduces pulling force for easier starting
Side-Access Chain Tensioner	Allows easy chain adjustment without tools
Ergonomic Handles	Front and rear handles designed for comfort and control
Fuel Tank Capacity	Approx. 0.5 liters (varies by model)
Oil Tank Capacity	Approx. 0.25 liters (varies by model)
Guide Bar Length Options	Typically 14" to 16" (35-40 cm)

Safety Information

Read and understand all safety instructions before operation.

1. Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): Always wear safety glasses, hearing protection, gloves, chainsaw chaps, and sturdy boots.
2. Work Area Safety: Clear area of bystanders, especially children. Ensure secure footing.
3. Kickback Awareness: Understand kickback zone (upper quadrant of bar tip). Maintain firm grip.
4. Fuel Safety: Mix fuel outdoors. Use correct gasoline/oil ratio (50:1 with Stihl oil). No smoking near fuel.

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

Assembly & Preparation

Unpack and inspect contents. Assemble guide bar and chain.

1. Attach guide bar: Place bar onto studs, align chain around sprocket and bar groove.
2. Tension chain: Use side tensioner to adjust until chain snaps back when pulled from bar.
3. Fill tanks: Add proper fuel/oil mix to fuel tank. Fill oil tank with Stihl chain oil.
4. Check controls: Ensure throttle trigger, throttle lockout, and chain brake function properly.

CAUTION! Chain must be properly tensioned. Loose chain can derail; overtightened chain can damage bar or engine.

Specifications

• Engine Displacement: Approximately 34.9 cc (varies by specific model).
• Power Output: Professional-grade power for its class.
• Fuel/Oil Ratio: 50:1 (Gasoline to Stihl 2-stroke oil).
• Ignition System: Electronic ignition (CDI).
• Carburetor: Diaphragm carburetor with manual choke.
• Weight (Powerhead): Approximately 5.1 kg (11.2 lbs) without bar and chain.
• Sound Power Level: Typically 112 dB(A). Hearing protection required.
• Vibration Levels: Reduced by Anti-Vibration system.
• Warranty: Refer to your local Stihl dealer for warranty terms.

Controls and Components

Familiarize yourself with all controls before starting.

Main Controls: Throttle trigger, throttle lockout (must be depressed to engage throttle), master control lever (combines choke, start, and run positions), chain brake lever (front hand guard), decompression valve button, and stop switch.

Components: Fuel tank cap, oil tank cap, spark plug, air filter cover, muffler, rear handle with anti-vibration mounts, front handle, chain catcher, and bar nuts.

Starting & Stopping

Cold Start Procedure:

1. Engage chain brake by pushing hand guard forward.
2. Set master control lever to choke position (full down).
3. Press decompression valve (if equipped).
4. Place saw on firm ground, hold rear handle with right foot.
5. Pull starter rope sharply until engine fires (usually 1-3 pulls).
6. Move master control lever to half-throttle position (mid-point).
7. Pull starter rope again until engine starts.
8. Briefly blip throttle to disengage fast idle. Release chain brake.

Warm Start: Set master control to run position (full up) and pull starter.

Stopping: Release throttle, press stop switch to "0" position.

Operation Guidelines

Proper technique ensures safety and efficiency.

1. Grip: Hold front handle with left hand, rear handle with right. Thumb wrapped underneath.
2. Stance: Feet shoulder-width apart, weight balanced.
3. Cutting: Let saw do the work. Avoid forcing bar. Use full throttle during cuts.
4. Kickback Prevention: Do not cut with bar tip. Be aware of pinch points.
5. Refueling: Stop engine and allow to cool. Clean area around caps.

Tip: Plan your cut and escape path before starting the engine.

Maintenance Schedule

Regular maintenance ensures longevity and safety.

Interval	Task
Daily/Before Use	Check chain tension, sharpness, and lubrication. Inspect for loose parts.
Every 5 Hours	Clean air filter. Check spark plug condition.
Every 20 Hours	Clean spark arrestor screen in muffler (if equipped).
Every 50 Hours	Clean fuel filter. Check carburetor adjustment (by qualified technician).
Annually	Replace fuel line and filter if cracked. Full professional service recommended.

Chain & Bar Care

Proper chain maintenance is critical for performance and safety.

1. Sharpening: Use correct round file size for your chain. Maintain correct filing angle (typically 30°). File all cutters evenly.
2. Depth Gauges: File depth gauges (rakers) with flat file and gauge to maintain proper height.
3. Bar Maintenance: Clean bar groove regularly. Flip bar periodically for even wear. Dress bar rails if burred.
4. Lubrication: Always use proper chain oil. Check oiler output by pointing bar tip at light surface and running at full throttle; oil line should appear.

WARNING! A dull chain requires more force, increases kickback risk, and causes premature wear.

Storage

Prepare saw for storage to prevent fuel system issues.

1. Drain fuel tank and run engine until it stops to clear carburetor.
2. Remove spark plug, add a few drops of oil into cylinder, pull starter slowly 2-3 times, reinstall plug.
3. Clean entire saw, especially cooling fins and air filter.
4. Loosen chain tension. Store in a dry, secure place.

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

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
Engine won't start	No spark, old fuel, flooded	Check spark plug; use fresh fuel mix; move master control to run, hold throttle open, pull starter 10+ times to clear flood.
Engine runs but dies	Clogged fuel filter, dirty air filter	Replace fuel filter; clean air filter.
Poor cutting performance	Dull chain, improper filing	Sharpen chain correctly; check depth gauges.
Chain doesn't oil	Empty oil tank, clogged oiler	Fill oil tank; clean oiler holes in bar; check oil pump.
Excessive vibration	Loose components, damaged AV mounts	Tighten all bolts/nuts; inspect anti-vibration mounts.
Chain throws or derails	Loose chain, worn bar, damaged drive links	Tension chain properly; inspect bar for wear; replace damaged chain.

Service: For complex repairs, contact your authorized Stihl servicing dealer. Use only genuine Stihl parts.

Support: Visit www.stihlusa.com or contact your local Stihl dealer.