The Stihl 026 is a professional-grade gasoline-powered chainsaw designed for demanding forestry, landscaping, and cutting applications. This manual covers the MS 026 model, featuring a robust engine, anti-vibration system, quick-stop chain brake, and STIHL Oilomatic saw chain. Below are key sections for safety, features, operation, maintenance, troubleshooting, and specifications to ensure proper and safe use.
Critical safety information to prevent serious injury or death. Understand all warning symbols and instructions before operation.
| Symbol/Item | Description |
|---|---|
| ⚠️ WARNING | Indicates a potentially hazardous situation which, if not avoided, could result in death or serious injury. |
| ⚠️ CAUTION | Indicates a potentially hazardous situation which, if not avoided, may result in minor or moderate injury. |
| 📘 NOTICE | Indicates a practice not related to personal injury, such as potential property damage. |
| Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) | Always wear: safety glasses, hearing protection, gloves, chainsaw chaps/pants, and sturdy boots. |
| Kickback Zone | Do not let the upper quadrant of the guide bar nose contact wood or other objects. |
| Chain Brake | Test before each use. Engage manually or via inertia in a kickback event. |
WARNING! Failure to follow safety instructions can result in severe injury from kickback, chain contact, or falling branches.
Key components and features of the Stihl 026 chainsaw.
Steps to assemble your new Stihl 026 chainsaw for first-time use.
CAUTION! Assemble on a clean, stable surface. Keep chain away from skin and clothing.
WARNING! Fuel is highly flammable. Mix and store in approved containers outdoors. No smoking.
Cold Start (Engine not warm), Warm Start (Engine recently run), and Stopping.
Cold Start: 1. Set master control lever to choke position (⬇). 2. Press fuel pump bulb (primer) 5-10 times until fuel is visible. 3. Place saw on firm ground, hold front handle with left hand, place right foot through rear handle. 4. Pull starter rope sharply until engine fires (usually 2-5 pulls). 5. Immediately move master control lever to half-throttle position (⬆). 6. Pull starter rope again to start. Let run briefly, then squeeze throttle trigger to disengage fast idle.
Warm Start: Master control lever in half-throttle position (⬆). No choke or priming needed.
Stopping: Release throttle, let engine idle, push master control lever to STOP (0).
Proper cutting techniques to ensure safety and efficiency.
WARNING! Always plan your cut and escape path. Never operate above shoulder height or on a ladder.
| Interval | Task |
|---|---|
| Before Each Use | Check chain tension, sharpness, and lubrication. Check all fasteners. Test chain brake function. |
| Every 5 Hours | Clean air filter. Check spark plug condition. |
| Every 20 Hours | Clean spark arrestor screen (muffler). Clean cooling fins. Check fuel filter. |
| Every 100 Hours | Replace fuel filter. Check clutch, sprocket, and anti-vibration elements. |
| End of Season | Drain fuel tank and run carburetor dry for storage. Clean entire saw. |
Proper chain maintenance is critical for performance and safety.
NOTICE: A dull or loose chain increases kickback risk, wear, and fuel consumption.
| Symptom | Possible Cause | Corrective Action |
|---|---|---|
| Engine will not start | No spark, old fuel, flooded, clogged filter | Check spark plug, use fresh fuel mix, follow flooding procedure, clean air/fuel filters. |
| Engine starts then dies | Clogged fuel filter, carburetor issues, vent | Replace fuel filter, clean carburetor, check tank vent. |
| Poor cutting performance | Dull chain, improper tension, low oil | Sharpen chain, adjust tension, fill oil tank, check oiler. |
| Chain does not stop with brake | Brake mechanism dirty/worn | Clean brake band and clutch drum; replace if worn. Have serviced by dealer. |
| Excessive vibration | Loose components, damaged AV mounts | Tighten all fasteners; inspect anti-vibration buffers. |
| Chain throws oil excessively | Oil pump setting too high | Adjust oil flow via screw (if equipped) to appropriate setting. |
STIHL Limited Warranty: Refer to the warranty card included with your purchase for specific terms and duration (typically 1 year consumer, 90 days commercial).
Authorized Service: Repairs should be performed by an authorized STIHL servicing dealer to maintain warranty and ensure safety.
Parts & Manuals: Use only genuine STIHL replacement parts. Download the latest manual at www.stihlusa.com.
Customer Support: For dealer location or support: USA: 1-800-467-8445 | Canada: 1-800-565-3444.
Disposal: At end of life, dispose of the chainsaw, batteries, and oils according to local environmental regulations. Do not dispose with household waste.