STIHL 017 Manual

The STIHL 017 is a lightweight, professional-grade gasoline-powered chainsaw designed for occasional to medium-duty cutting tasks. It features a reliable 2-stroke engine, automatic oiling system, anti-vibration handles, inertia chain brake, easy-start system, and a range of safety features. Below are key sections for safety, features, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

Features at a Glance

Key components: Engine, guide bar, cutting chain, oil tank, fuel tank, throttle trigger, chain brake, master control lever, and anti-vibration system.

Feature	Description
Engine Type	2-stroke, single-cylinder gasoline engine
Displacement	Approximately 30.1 cc
Guide Bar Length	Typically 16 inches (40 cm)
Chain Pitch	3/8" PMM or .325" (depending on configuration)
Fuel/Oil Mix	50:1 (STIHL HP Ultra oil recommended)
Automatic Oiling	Adjustable chain lubrication system
Anti-Vibration	Reduced vibration handles for user comfort
Chain Brake	Inertia-activated kickback protection
Easy2Start	Simplified starting system (if equipped)
Weight (dry)	Approximately 10.1 lbs (4.6 kg)

Safety Information

Read and understand all safety warnings before operation.

1. Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): Always wear chainsaw chaps, safety glasses, hearing protection, gloves, and steel-toe boots.
2. Clear Work Area: Ensure no bystanders, pets, or obstacles within 15 feet.
3. Secure Footing: Maintain balance on solid, non-slippery ground.
4. Kickback Zone: Avoid contact with the upper tip of the guide bar.
5. Hot Surfaces: Do not touch muffler or cylinder during/after operation.

WARNING! Failure to follow safety instructions can result in serious injury or death. Never operate a chainsaw while tired, under the influence, or in poor weather conditions.

Assembly & Preparation

Unpack and inspect contents. Assemble guide bar and chain.

1. Attach guide bar: Loosen bar nuts, position bar on studs, align chain drive links with sprocket.
2. Install chain: Place chain over bar with cutting edges facing forward on top. Ensure proper direction.
3. Tension chain: Adjust tensioning screw until chain snaps back when pulled from bar.
4. Fill fluids: Add fuel/oil mix to fuel tank. Fill bar and chain oil tank with STIHL chain oil.
5. Check controls: Ensure throttle trigger, throttle lockout, and chain brake function properly.

CAUTION! Use only STIHL-approved guide bars, chains, and lubricants. Improper assembly can cause chain derailment or breakage.

Specifications

• Engine Power: Approximately 1.8 kW (2.4 hp).
• Fuel Capacity: Approximately 0.42 US pt (0.2 liters).
• Oil Tank Capacity: Approximately 0.25 US pt (0.12 liters).
• Idle Speed: 2,800 rpm (factory set).
• Maximum Power Speed: Approximately 12,500 rpm.
• Sound Pressure Level: Typically 106 dB(A).
• Vibration Levels: Left/right handles below 5 m/s².
• Ignition System: Electronic, breakerless magneto.
• Carburetor: Diaphragm-type with fixed jet.
• Warranty: Limited warranty for personal use (see dealer for details).

Controls and Components

Master Control Lever: Combines choke, throttle lock, and stop functions. Throttle Trigger: Controls engine speed. Throttle Lockout: Must be depressed to engage throttle. Chain Brake Lever: Manual activation; inertia-activated during kickback. Decompression Valve: Reduces compression for easier starting (if equipped).

Adjustments: Chain tension (via side screw), oil flow (adjustment screw near oil tank), idle speed (carburetor screw - dealer service).

Starting & Stopping

Cold Start:

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

Warm Start: Master control lever in run position (horizontal). No choke needed.

Stopping: Release throttle, move master control lever to STOP position.

Operation & Cutting Techniques

Always operate at full throttle during cutting.

1. Felling: Plan escape path. Make notch cut (1/3 diameter), then felling cut. Use wedges if needed.
2. Limbing: Cut branches from bottom to top. Keep saw stable; avoid pinching.
3. Bucking: Support log properly. Cut from top, roll log, complete from opposite side.
4. Kickback Prevention: Maintain firm grip, do not cut with bar tip, keep chain sharp.
5. Pinch Release: Shut off saw, use lever or wedge to free bar.

WARNING! Never cut above shoulder height. Do not operate with one hand. Always be aware of falling limbs and shifting logs.

Maintenance Schedule

Interval	Task
Daily	Check chain tension, sharpness, and lubrication; clean air intake; inspect for damage.
Weekly	Clean spark arrestor screen (if equipped); check all nuts/bolts for tightness.
Monthly	Clean/replace air filter; check fuel filter; inspect spark plug.
Seasonally	Replace spark plug; clean cooling fins; check anti-vibration elements.
Annually	Have carburetor adjusted by authorized dealer; check clutch and sprocket.

CAUTION! Always disconnect spark plug wire before performing maintenance.

Chain Sharpening & Tensioning

Use round file matching chain pitch (typically 5/32" or 3/16").

1. Secure bar in vise.
2. File each cutter from inside out at 30° angle, maintaining consistent strokes.
3. File depth gauges with flat file to proper height (use gauge).
4. Tension chain: Loosen bar nuts, adjust tension screw until chain fits snug against bar bottom.
5. Retighten bar nuts, check tension again after running saw briefly.

Tip: Sharpen chain regularly; a dull chain increases kickback risk and reduces cutting efficiency.

Storage Guidelines

For storage over 30 days:

1. Drain fuel tank and run engine until it stops to clear carburetor.
2. Remove chain, clean in solvent, coat with oil, store in oiled cloth.
3. Clean entire saw, especially cooling fins and air filter area.
4. Store in dry, cool place, protected from dust and moisture.
5. Cover with breathable cloth; do not use plastic bags.

CAUTION! Never store with fuel in tank for extended periods. Fuel can degrade and damage carburetor components.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
Engine won't start	No spark, flooded, stale fuel	Check spark plug; use fresh 50:1 mix; follow correct starting procedure.
Engine runs poorly	Dirty air filter, clogged fuel filter	Clean/replace air filter; replace fuel filter.
Chain doesn't oil	Empty oil tank, clogged oil passage	Fill tank; clean oil holes in bar; check oil pump.
Chain comes off bar	Loose bar nuts, worn sprocket	Tension chain properly; replace worn drive sprocket.
Excessive vibration	Loose components, unbalanced chain	Tighten all fasteners; sharpen chain evenly.

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

Support: STIHL Incorporated, 536 Viking Drive, Virginia Beach, VA 23452. Customer Service: 1-800-467-8445. www.stihlusa.com