Stihl 012 AV Repair Manual

The Stihl 012 AV is a lightweight, professional-grade chainsaw featuring anti-vibration (AV) technology, electronic ignition, automatic oiling, and a reliable two-stroke engine. This repair manual provides comprehensive guidance for maintenance, troubleshooting, and repair procedures to ensure optimal performance and safety. Below are key sections covering safety, specifications, disassembly, engine repair, fuel system, ignition system, chain and bar maintenance, and troubleshooting.

1. Safety Precautions 2. Specifications & Technical Data 3. Tools Required 4. Disassembly & Assembly 5. Engine Repair 6. Fuel System 7. Ignition System 8. Chain & Bar Maintenance 9. Anti-Vibration System 10. Troubleshooting Guide 11. Parts Diagram & List

Safety Precautions

Always prioritize safety when performing repairs. Wear protective gear and work in a well-ventilated area.

PrecautionDescription
Disconnect spark plugPrevent accidental starting during repair
Use proper toolsEnsure correct torque and avoid damage
Handle fuel safelyDrain fuel tank before disassembly; avoid sparks
Chain safetyWear cut-resistant gloves; ensure chain brake is engaged
Clean work areaPrevent contamination of engine components

Specifications & Technical Data

Tools Required

Standard and specialty tools needed for repair.

  1. Torx screwdrivers (T10, T15, T25).
  2. Spark plug wrench (13/16").
  3. Compression tester.
  4. Carburetor adjustment tool.
  5. Piston stop tool.
  6. Clutch removal tool (Stihl 1122 893 4500).
  7. Torque wrench (3-15 Nm range).

WARNING! Use genuine Stihl tools or equivalents to avoid damage.

Disassembly & Assembly

Step-by-step guide to dismantling and reassembling the saw.

  1. Remove top cover: Unscrew two Torx screws.
  2. Remove starter assembly: Detach spring and pulley.
  3. Remove clutch and sprocket: Use clutch tool to loosen left-hand thread.
  4. Separate engine from housing: Remove anti-vibration bolts.
  5. Access cylinder and piston: Remove muffler and cylinder bolts.

Tip: Take photos during disassembly to aid reassembly.

Engine Repair

Procedures for piston, cylinder, crankshaft, and bearings.

ComponentInspectionRepair
Piston & RingsCheck for scoring, wearReplace if compression below 110 psi
CylinderInspect for scratches, plating damageHone lightly or replace
CrankshaftCheck runout (max 0.05 mm)Replace if bent or worn
BearingsTest for smooth rotation, no playPress in new bearings
SealsInspect for leaksReplace during reassembly

Fuel System

Carburetor adjustment, fuel line, and filter replacement.

  1. Drain fuel tank completely.
  2. Remove carburetor cover and air filter.
  3. Adjust idle (L), high-speed (H), and idle speed screws.
  4. Replace fuel filter and lines if cracked or brittle.
  5. Test for leaks after reassembly.

Default Settings: L: 1 turn out, H: 1 turn out (fine-tune for performance).

Ignition System

Testing and replacing ignition coil, spark plug, and wiring.

CAUTION! Never crank engine with spark plug disconnected and grounded to cylinder.

Chain & Bar Maintenance

Sharpening, tensioning, and replacing chain and guide bar.

  1. Sharpening: Use round file (4.0 mm) at 30° angle.
  2. Tensioning: Loosen bar nuts, adjust tensioning screw.
  3. Bar maintenance: Clean groove, flip regularly for even wear.
  4. Sprocket: Replace if worn (teeth hook-shaped).

WARNING! Always wear gloves when handling chain.

Anti-Vibration System

Inspection and replacement of AV springs and dampers.

Locate four AV mounts connecting engine to housing. Check for cracked or sagging springs. Replace in pairs to maintain balance. Torque mounting bolts to 12 Nm.

Troubleshooting Guide

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
Engine won't startNo spark, fuel issue, compressionCheck spark plug, fuel filter, compression test
Engine runs poorlyClogged carburetor, air leakClean carburetor, pressure test crankcase
Excessive vibrationWorn AV mounts, unbalanced partsReplace AV springs, check clutch balance
Chain won't turnClutch worn, sprocket damagedInspect clutch shoes and drum, replace sprocket
Oil not pumpingClogged oil passages, pump failureClean oil ports, replace oil pump

Parts Diagram & List

Key replacement parts with Stihl part numbers.

Ordering: Contact authorized Stihl dealer or visit www.stihlusa.com.

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