stihl 011 avt owners manual

The STIHL 011 AVT is a professional-grade gasoline-powered chainsaw featuring Anti-Vibration Technology (AVT), a reliable single-cylinder two-stroke engine, automatic oiling system, and a range of safety and performance features designed for demanding cutting tasks. Below are key sections for safety, features, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

1. Features at a Glance 2. Safety Information 3. Assembly & First-Time Setup 4. Specifications 5. Controls and Components 6. Fuel & Lubrication 7. Starting & Operation 8. Maintenance Schedule 9. Chain Sharpening & Replacement 10. Storage 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: Two-stroke engine with electronic ignition, Anti-Vibration System (AVT), automatic chain oiler, Quickstop® inertia chain brake, side-access chain tensioner, and ergonomic handles.

Feature	Description
Anti-Vibration Technology (AVT)	Reduces operator fatigue by dampening engine vibrations
Quickstop® Inertia Chain Brake	Stops chain rotation in kickback situations for operator safety
Automatic Chain Oiler	Provides continuous lubrication to bar and chain during operation
Side-Access Chain Tensioner	Allows for easy chain adjustment without removing side cover
Electronic Ignition (CDI)	Provides reliable starting and consistent spark
Ergonomic Front & Rear Handles	Designed for comfort and control during extended use
Decompression Valve	Reduces pulling effort during starting
Throttle Interlock	Prevents accidental throttle activation
Chain Catcher	Helps contain broken chain within housing
Spark Arrestor Muffler	Reduces exhaust sparks in dry conditions

Safety Information

Read and understand all safety warnings before operation. Always wear proper PPE.

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): Always wear chainsaw chaps or pants, safety glasses, hearing protection, gloves, and sturdy boots.
Work Area Safety: Clear area of bystanders, especially children. Ensure secure footing. Never operate above shoulder height.
Kickback Zone: Be aware of the upper quadrant of the guide bar tip. Avoid contact in this area.
Chain Brake Check: Test Quickstop® function before each use by engaging brake with wrist.
Fuel Safety: Refuel in well-ventilated area with engine off and cool. Use approved fuel container.

WARNING! Failure to follow safety instructions can result in serious injury or death. The chainsaw is a dangerous tool if misused.

Assembly & First-Time Setup

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

Attach Guide Bar & Chain: Loosen nuts on side cover. Fit bar over studs. Loop chain over sprocket and onto bar groove with cutters facing forward. Adjust tension.
Fill Fuel Tank: Use fresh fuel mix (50:1 gasoline to STIHL HP Ultra or equivalent high-quality 2-stroke oil). Do not use automotive oil.
Fill Chain Oil Tank: Use STIHL chain oil or a good quality biodegradable bar & chain oil.
Check Controls: Ensure throttle trigger, throttle interlock, and chain brake move freely.

CAUTION! Chain must be properly tensioned—snug against bar but pullable by hand. Overtightening causes damage.

Specifications

Engine Displacement: 34.9 cc (2.13 cu. in.)
Power Output: 1.8 kW (2.4 hp)
Fuel/Oil Ratio: 50:1 (Gasoline to 2-stroke oil)
Fuel Tank Capacity: 0.55 L (18.6 fl. oz.)
Chain Oil Tank Capacity: 0.26 L (8.8 fl. oz.)
Guide Bar Lengths (Recommended): 35 cm (14"), 40 cm (16")
Chain Pitch/Gauge: 3/8" PM / .050" (1.3 mm)
Weight (without bar & chain): 5.2 kg (11.5 lbs)
Ignition System: Electronic CDI
Vibration Damping: STIHL AVT System

Controls and Components

Familiarize yourself with all controls before starting the engine.

Right Side: Throttle trigger, throttle interlock, front handle, chain brake lever, master control lever (combines choke, stop switch, and run positions).

Left Side: Rear handle with trigger lockout, decompression valve (if equipped), side-access chain tensioner, fuel and oil tank caps.

Master Control Lever Positions: - STOP (0): Engine off. - RUN (I): Normal operation. - CHOKE (Ω): Cold start position (full choke). - START (↑): Partial choke for warm start.

Fuel & Lubrication

Use only high-quality, fresh fuel and recommended lubricants.

Fuel Mix: 50:1 ratio. Use 89 octane or higher unleaded gasoline mixed with STIHL HP Ultra 2-stroke oil.
Mixing: Add oil to approved fuel can, then add gasoline. Shake well.
Chain Oil: Use proper bar & chain oil for all temperatures. In extreme cold, use STIHL Arctic oil.
Refueling: Stop engine and allow to cool. Clean area around caps. Fill tanks slowly to avoid spillage.

WARNING! Gasoline is highly flammable. No smoking. Clean up spills immediately. Never store fuel mix longer than 60 days.

Starting & Operation

Follow correct starting procedure to avoid flooding and ensure safe operation.

Cold Start: Engage chain brake. Set master control to CHOKE (Ω). Press decompression valve (if equipped). Pull starter rope sharply until engine fires. Move lever to START (↑). Pull again to start. Let run briefly, then squeeze throttle to disengage fast idle.
Warm Start: Set master control to START (↑) and pull starter rope.
Cutting Technique: Hold saw firmly with both hands. Let chain do the work—do not force. Plan cut to avoid pinching bar. Use full throttle during cuts.
Chain Brake Engagement: If kickback occurs, inertia activates brake. Manually engage by pushing front hand guard forward. To release, pull back toward operator.

CAUTION! Always engage chain brake when carrying saw more than a few steps or when not actively cutting.

Maintenance Schedule

Interval	Task
Daily / Before Use	Check chain tension, sharpness, and lubrication. Inspect for loose fasteners. Clean air intake.
Every 10 Hours	Clean spark arrestor screen (if equipped). Check fuel filter.
Every 20 Hours	Clean or replace air filter. Check spark plug condition and gap.
Every 50 Hours	Clean cooling fins. Check anti-vibration elements. Grease sprocket tip (if applicable).
Annually / 100 Hours	Replace fuel filter. Check all safety devices. Professional inspection recommended.

Note: Maintenance intervals vary with operating conditions. Increase frequency in dusty environments.

Chain Sharpening & Replacement

A sharp chain is essential for safe and efficient operation.

Sharpening: Use correct round file size (typically 4.0 mm / 5/32"). File each cutter at recommended angle (usually 30°). Maintain equal length on all cutters. File depth gauges with flat file and gauge.
Replacement: Replace chain when cutters are worn short, damaged, or after repeated sharpening. Ensure new chain matches pitch, gauge, and drive link count.
Bar Maintenance: Regularly clean bar groove. Flip bar weekly for even wear. Replace if rails are unevenly worn or groove is widened.

Tip: Keep file level and use consistent strokes. A dull chain increases kickback risk and operator fatigue.

Storage

Proper storage prevents fuel system issues and corrosion.

Short-Term (under 30 days): Run engine dry of fuel or add fuel stabilizer.
Long-Term: Drain all fuel from tank and carburetor. Run engine until it stops. Remove chain, clean, and store in oil. Clean entire saw. Store in dry, dust-free place.
Battery (if electric start model): Remove and store in cool, dry place. Charge periodically.

CAUTION! Never store saw with fuel in tank for extended periods. Old fuel can damage carburetor diaphragms.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
Engine will not start	No spark, flooded, old fuel, clogged filter	Check spark plug. Use fresh fuel mix. Clean air filter. Move master control to START and pull with throttle open if flooded.
Engine starts but dies	Clogged fuel filter, vent blocked, carburetor issues	Replace fuel filter. Check tank vent. May require carburetor adjustment or cleaning.
Chain does not oil	Empty oil tank, clogged oil passage, faulty pump	Fill tank. Clean oil outlet hole in bar. Check oiler adjustment screw. Inspect oil lines.
Excessive vibration	Loose components, worn AV buffers, unbalanced chain	Tighten all fasteners. Check anti-vibration mounts. Balance chain by sharpening evenly.
Chain brake not engaging	Dirty or worn mechanism, broken spring	Clean brake band and clutch drum. Check spring tension. Replace parts as needed.
Loss of power	Dirty air filter, clogged spark arrestor, fouled plug	Clean or replace air filter. Clean spark arrestor screen. Replace spark plug.

Service: For repairs beyond basic maintenance, contact an authorized STIHL servicing dealer. Use only genuine STIHL replacement parts.

Support: Visit www.stihlusa.com or contact STIHL customer service for dealer locations and technical information.