The STIHL 024 AV is a professional-grade gasoline-powered chainsaw featuring Anti-Vibration (AV) technology, a robust engine, and a range of safety and performance features. This manual provides essential information for safe operation, maintenance, troubleshooting, and specifications. Below are key sections covering safety, features, operation, maintenance, and technical data.
Key components: Anti-Vibration (AV) system, Quickstop® inertia chain brake, decompression valve, side-access chain tensioner, and STIHL Oilomatic® saw chain.
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Anti-Vibration (AV) System | Reduces operator fatigue by dampening engine vibrations |
| Quickstop® Inertia Chain Brake | Automatically stops the chain in kickback situations |
| Decompression Valve | Reduces pulling force required for starting |
| Side-Access Chain Tensioner | Allows easy chain adjustment from the side |
| STIHL Oilomatic® Saw Chain | Self-lubricating chain for reduced wear |
| Throttle Interlock | Prevents accidental throttle activation |
| Chain Catcher | Helps reduce risk if chain breaks or derails |
| Muffler with Spark Arrestor | Reduces noise and prevents spark emission |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | Approx. 0.55 US pt (0.26 l) |
| Oil Tank Capacity | Approx. 0.42 US pt (0.20 l) |
Read and understand all instructions before operation. Always wear proper PPE.
WARNING! Failure to follow safety instructions can result in serious injury or death. Never operate a chainsaw without proper training.
Unpack and inspect contents. Assemble guide bar and chain.
CAUTION! Ensure chain brake is disengaged before starting. Keep hands away from chain at all times.
Master Control Lever: Combines stop switch, choke, and throttle settings. Front Handle: Includes throttle trigger and throttle interlock. Rear Handle: Contains master control lever and starter grip.
Key Controls: Master Control Lever (Stop/Choke/Run), Throttle Trigger, Throttle Interlock, Chain Brake Lever, Decompression Valve, Chain Tensioner.
Operation: Set master control to cold start (choke) for cold engine, to warm start for warm engine. Push decompression valve before starting to reduce pull force. Engage chain brake by pushing lever forward; disengage by pulling back toward rear handle.
Starting, cutting techniques, and shutdown procedures.
Tip: Always cut at waist level or below for better control. Plan escape path from falling tree or limb.
Daily and periodic maintenance tasks for optimal performance.
WARNING! Perform maintenance only when engine is off and cool. Disconnect spark plug wire for safety.
Proper chain tension, sharpening, and bar maintenance.
Chain Tension: Adjust when chain sags from bar rails. Correct tension allows chain to be pulled around bar by hand without binding. Sharpening: Use round file matching chain pitch (typically 5/32" or 7/32"). Maintain correct filing angle (usually 30°). Bar Maintenance: Clean bar groove regularly, flip bar periodically for even wear, and file down burrs on rails.
Use fresh unleaded gasoline (min. 89 octane) mixed with STIHL 2-cycle engine oil at 50:1 ratio. Shake mixture well before refueling. For bar and chain oil, use STIHL or equivalent high-quality chainsaw oil. Do not use waste oil.
CAUTION! Store fuel mix in approved container for up to 30 days. Do not mix directly in saw's fuel tank.
For long-term storage (over 30 days), drain fuel tank and run engine until it stops to clear carburetor. Remove chain, clean, and store in oil. Clean entire saw and store in dry, cool place.
CAUTION! Storing with fuel in tank can cause carburetor damage from fuel deterioration.
| Symptom | Possible Cause | Corrective Action |
|---|---|---|
| Engine will not start | No fuel, flooded engine, spark plug fault | Check fuel level; set master control to warm start and pull with throttle open; check/replace spark plug. |
| Engine starts then dies | Clogged fuel filter, dirty air filter, carburetor adjustment | Replace fuel filter; clean air filter; adjust carburetor (H/L screws). |
| Chain does not turn | Chain brake engaged, clutch worn, sprocket damaged | Disengage chain brake; inspect clutch and sprocket; replace if worn. |
| Excessive vibration | Loose components, worn AV mounts, unbalanced chain | Tighten all bolts; check anti-vibration mounts; balance chain. |
| Chain oil not flowing | Empty oil tank, clogged oil passages, faulty oil pump | Fill oil tank; clean oil holes in bar; check oil pump drive. |
Service: For repairs beyond basic maintenance, contact an authorized STIHL servicing dealer.
Support: Visit www.stihlusa.com or contact STIHL customer service for manual downloads and technical assistance.