stihl 025 chainsaw owners manual

The STIHL 025 is a professional-grade gasoline-powered chainsaw designed for demanding cutting tasks. It features a powerful engine, anti-vibration system, quick-stop chain brake, and STIHL's Ematic lubrication system. Below are key sections covering safety, features, assembly, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting for the STIHL 025 chainsaw.

Features at a Glance

Key components: Engine, guide bar, saw chain, anti-vibration handles, chain brake, throttle trigger, master control lever, and fuel/oil tanks.

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 sturdy boots.
2. Clear Work Area: Ensure no bystanders, pets, or obstacles within 15 feet.
3. Kickback Zone: Be aware of the upper quadrant of the guide bar tip; avoid contact.
4. Chain Brake: Test function before each use. Engage when carrying saw more than a few steps.
5. Fuel Safety: Refuel in well-ventilated area, engine off and cool. Use approved fuel containers.

WARNING! Failure to follow safety instructions can result in serious injury or death. The chain brake is not a substitute for safe operating practices.

Assembly & Preparation

Assemble your chainsaw following these steps.

1. Attach Guide Bar & Chain: Loosen bar nuts. Fit bar onto studs. Place chain over sprocket and onto bar groove, ensuring cutting teeth face forward on top. Tighten bar nuts finger-tight.
2. Tension Chain: Lift bar tip, then use scrench to tighten tensioning screw until chain fits snugly against bar. Tighten bar nuts securely.
3. Fill Fuel Tank: Use fresh unleaded gasoline (min. 89 octane) mixed with STIHL 2-cycle engine oil at 50:1 ratio. Shake well.
4. Fill Chain Oil Tank: Use STIHL chain oil or equivalent. Do not use waste oil.
5. Check Controls: Ensure throttle trigger, lockout, and chain brake move freely.

CAUTION! Always wear protective gloves when handling the saw chain. It is extremely sharp.

Specifications

• Engine Displacement: Varies by model (e.g., 45.4 cc).
• Power Output: Professional-grade power-to-weight ratio.
• Fuel/Oil Mix: 50:1 (Gasoline to STIHL 2-Cycle Oil).
• Guide Bar Lengths: Typically 16" to 20".
• Chain Pitch/Gauge: .325" pitch, .063" gauge (common).
• Weight (powerhead): Approximately 10.1 lbs (without bar/chain).
• Ignition System: STIHL electronic ignition (CDI).
• Sound Power Level: Meets applicable noise regulations.
• Vibration Levels: Reduced by anti-vibration system.

Controls and Components

Familiarize yourself with all controls before starting.

Right Side: Throttle trigger with lockout, rear handle, master control lever (choke/run/stop).

Left Side: Chain brake lever/hand guard, front handle, bar nuts, chain tensioner.

Top/Rear: Fuel cap, oil cap, decompression valve (if equipped), spark plug cover.

Master Control Lever Positions: - STOP (0): Engine off. - CHOKE (up): For cold starting. - RUN (down): Normal operation.

Starting the Chainsaw

Follow these steps for safe starting.

1. Cold Start: Engage chain brake. Set master control lever to CHOKE. Press decompression valve (if equipped). Place saw on firm ground, hold front handle with left hand, place right foot in rear handle. Pull starter rope sharply until engine fires. Move lever to RUN. Pull starter rope to start.
2. Warm Start: Set lever to RUN position only. Pull starter rope.
3. After Starting: Disengage chain brake by pulling hand guard toward front handle. Blip throttle to return to idle.

WARNING! Never drop-start or start the saw above waist height. Always engage the chain brake when starting.

Operating Procedures

Proper technique ensures safety and efficiency.

1. Grip: Hold front handle with left hand, rear handle with right hand. Thumbs wrapped underneath.
2. Stance: Stand with feet shoulder-width apart, weight balanced.
3. Cutting: Let the chain do the work. Apply light downward pressure. Use full throttle during cut.
4. Kickback Prevention: Do not cut with the upper tip. Be aware of pinching, binding, and limb tension.
5. Refueling: Stop engine and allow to cool. Engage chain brake. Refuel in open area.

Tip: Plan your cut and escape path before starting. Never cut above shoulder height.

Maintenance Schedule

Regular maintenance ensures long life and safe operation.

CAUTION! Always disconnect the spark plug wire before performing any maintenance.

Chain Sharpening & Tensioning

A sharp, properly tensioned chain is essential.

1. Tensioning: Loosen bar nuts. Lift bar tip. Turn tensioning screw until chain is snug against bar (can be pulled by hand but not loose). Retighten bar nuts securely.
2. Sharpening: Use correct round file size (typically 5/32" for .325" chain). File each cutter at the manufacturer's specified angle (usually 30°). Maintain equal file strokes per cutter. File depth gauges with a flat file and gauge.

WARNING! A loose chain can derail. An overtightened chain can break. Check tension frequently, especially when new.

Storage Guidelines

Prepare your saw for storage to prevent damage.

1. Short-Term (1-2 months): Drain fuel tank and run engine until it stops to clear carburetor. Clean entire saw.
2. Long-Term: Perform short-term steps. Remove chain and bar, clean and oil them. Store in a dry, secure place.

CAUTION! Never store a chainsaw with fuel in the tank for extended periods. Fuel can degrade and damage engine components.

Troubleshooting

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

Support: Refer to your local STIHL dealer or visit www.stihlusa.com for manuals and support.