Stihl 020 AV Service Manual

The Stihl 020 AV is a professional-grade chainsaw featuring anti-vibration (AV) technology, a robust engine design, and durable construction for demanding forestry and arborist work. This service manual provides comprehensive instructions for maintenance, troubleshooting, repair, and safety procedures. Below are key sections covering specifications, maintenance schedules, engine service, fuel system, ignition, carburetor, chain and bar, troubleshooting, and parts diagrams.

1. Specifications & Technical Data 2. Safety Precautions 3. Maintenance Schedule 4. Engine Disassembly & Assembly 5. Fuel System Service 6. Ignition System 7. Carburetor Adjustment 8. Chain & Guide Bar 9. Anti-Vibration System 10. Troubleshooting Guide 11. Parts Diagrams & List

Specifications & Technical Data

Key technical specifications for the Stihl 020 AV chainsaw.

FeatureDescription
Engine TypeSingle-cylinder, two-stroke, air-cooled
Displacement35.2 cc (2.15 cu. in.)
Power OutputApprox. 2.0 kW (2.7 hp)
Fuel Tank Capacity0.55 L (18.6 fl. oz.)
Oil Tank Capacity0.26 L (8.8 fl. oz.)
Guide Bar Lengths12" to 16" (30 cm to 40 cm)
Chain Pitch3/8" PM or .325"
Ignition SystemElectronic, breakerless
Weight (powerhead)Approx. 5.2 kg (11.5 lbs)
Anti-Vibration SystemStihl AV with rubber dampeners

Safety Precautions

Essential safety procedures to follow before and during service.

  1. Disconnect spark plug boot to prevent accidental starting.
  2. Allow engine to cool completely before servicing.
  3. Work in a clean, well-ventilated area.
  4. Use proper Stihl tools or equivalents as specified.
  5. Wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE).

WARNING! Fuel is highly flammable. No smoking. Drain fuel tank before major disassembly. Handle sharp chain with extreme care.

Maintenance Schedule

Recommended service intervals for optimal performance and longevity.

  1. Daily/Before Use: Check chain tension, sharpness, and lubrication. Inspect for loose fasteners.
  2. Weekly/10 Hours: Clean air filter, check spark plug condition, clean cooling fins.
  3. Monthly/50 Hours: Clean fuel filter, inspect fuel lines, check carburetor adjustment.
  4. Annually/100 Hours: Replace spark plug, clean muffler screen, inspect anti-vibration elements, check clutch and sprocket.

CAUTION! Adherence to the maintenance schedule is critical for safe operation and warranty compliance.

Engine Disassembly & Assembly

Fuel System Service

Servicing the fuel tank, lines, filter, and cap.

Components: Fuel tank, fuel filter, fuel lines (supply and return), vented fuel cap.

Procedure: 1. Drain fuel. 2. Remove tank cover. 3. Replace fuel filter and inspect lines for cracks/softness. 4. Clean tank interior. 5. Reassemble, ensuring lines are routed correctly and securely connected.

Ignition System

Testing and replacing the ignition module (coil), spark plug, and stop switch.

  1. Remove spark plug, check gap (0.5 mm / 0.020").
  2. Test for spark: Ground plug against cylinder, pull starter. Strong blue spark required.
  3. If no spark, check stop switch wire for continuity/disconnection.
  4. Measure ignition coil air gap (0.2-0.4 mm) with feeler gauge.
  5. Replace ignition module if defective.

Tip: Use a Stihl diagnostic tester (if available) for precise ignition module testing.

Carburetor Adjustment

Adjusting the Walbro or Zama carburetor. Factory settings are a starting point; final adjustment must be made with a warmed-up engine.

  1. Identify adjustment screws: L (Low speed), H (High speed), LA (Idle speed).
  2. Initial setting: Turn L and H screws gently clockwise to seat, then back out 1 turn.
  3. Start engine, warm up for several minutes.
  4. Adjust idle speed (LA) so chain does not move.
  5. Fine-tune L for smooth acceleration from idle. Fine-tune H for maximum power without "leaning" (over-revving).
  6. Re-check idle after H/L adjustment.

WARNING! An improperly adjusted H screw can cause immediate engine seizure due to lean mixture. Adjust in small increments.

Chain & Guide Bar

Maintenance for the cutting chain, guide bar, and drive sprocket.

Chain Tension: Correct when chain snaps back after pulling away from bar rail. Adjust via side tensioner.

Bar Maintenance: Clean bar groove, flip bar regularly for even wear, check for "burring" on rails.

Sprocket: Inspect for wear (hook-shaped teeth). Replace if worn to prevent chain damage.

Sharpening: Use correct round file size. Maintain correct filing angle (typically 30°) and depth gauge settings.

Anti-Vibration System

Service of the AV mounts and dampeners.

Inspect rubber AV elements for cracking, hardening, or separation. Replace in sets if any are defective. Ensure all mounting bolts are tight to frame. Worn AV mounts transfer excessive vibration to operator.

Troubleshooting Guide

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
Engine will not startNo spark, flooded, fuel issueCheck spark, plug condition. Dry plug if flooded. Check fuel flow, filter, lines.
Engine starts then diesClogged fuel filter, tank vent, carb adjustmentReplace fuel filter. Clean tank vent. Check carburetor L screw setting.
Lacks power/overheatsDirty air filter, clogged muffler, lean H settingClean air filter. Clean spark arrestor screen. Richen H screw slightly.
Excessive vibrationWorn AV mounts, unbalanced clutch/flywheel, loose partsInspect and replace AV mounts. Check clutch balance and tightness. Tighten all fasteners.
Chain does not oilClogged oil passages, faulty oil pump, empty tankClean bar oil hole and saw's oil ports. Test/replace oil pump. Fill oil tank.

Reset: For electronic issues, disconnect spark plug wire for 1 minute to reset module.

Service: For genuine Stihl parts and technical support, contact an authorized Stihl servicing dealer.

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