Stihl 028 AV Chainsaw Manual

The Stihl 028 AV is a professional-grade gasoline-powered chainsaw featuring anti-vibration (AV) technology, a powerful engine, and durable construction for demanding cutting tasks. This manual covers safety instructions, features, assembly, operation, maintenance, troubleshooting, and specifications to ensure safe and efficient use.

Features at a Glance

Key components: Anti-vibration system, chain brake, throttle trigger lockout, decompression valve, automatic oiler, and side-access chain tensioner.

Safety Instructions

Read all instructions before operation. Wear appropriate PPE.

1. Personal Protective Equipment: Always wear safety glasses, hearing protection, gloves, chainsaw chaps, and sturdy boots.
2. Work Area Safety: Clear area of obstacles, ensure secure footing, and keep bystanders at a safe distance.
3. Kickback Prevention: Hold saw firmly with both hands, avoid contact with bar tip, and use reduced-kickback chain.
4. Fuel Safety: Refuel in well-ventilated area with engine off and cool. Use approved fuel mix.

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

Assembly & Preparation

Assemble saw with guide bar and chain. Prepare fuel mix.

1. Attach Guide Bar & Chain: Place bar on studs, loop chain over sprocket and bar, adjust tension.
2. Fuel Mix Preparation: Use high-quality 2-stroke oil mixed with unleaded gasoline at 50:1 ratio (for later models; confirm ratio for your specific version).
3. Fill Tanks: Add fuel mix to fuel tank and bar/chain oil to oil tank. Use recommended oils.
4. Check Chain Tension: Chain should be snug against bar but pull freely by hand.

CAUTION! Ensure chain brake is disengaged before starting. Verify all fasteners are tight.

Specifications

• Engine Displacement: 3.0 cu. in. (49 cc) approx.
• Power Output: 3.0 HP approx.
• Weight (without bar/chain): 12.1 lbs (5.5 kg) approx.
• Ignition System: Electronic, breakerless
• Carburetor: Diaphragm-type with fixed high-speed jet
• Fuel/Oil Ratio: 50:1 (Gasoline:2-stroke oil) - Verify for your specific model/year.
• Recommended Bar Length: 16" to 20" (40-50 cm)
• Chain Pitch/Gauge: .325" pitch, .063" gauge (common)
• Sound Power Level: Approx. 112 dB(A) - Wear hearing protection.

Controls and Components

Main Controls: Front Handle with throttle trigger and lockout, Rear Handle, Master Control Lever (combines choke, stop switch, and run positions), Chain Brake lever, Decompression valve button, and Primer bulb (if equipped).

Master Control Lever Positions: STOP (0), RUN (I), CHOKE/START (II). Throttle Lockout: Must be depressed before throttle trigger can be engaged. Chain Brake: Push forward manually or activates automatically via inertia on kickback.

Starting & Operation

Cold Start Procedure: Engage chain brake. Set Master Control to CHOKE (II). Press decompression valve (if equipped). Pull starter rope sharply until engine fires. Move lever to RUN (I). Pull starter rope again to start. Allow brief warm-up.

1. Warm Start: Set lever to RUN (I) and pull starter.
2. Cutting Technique: Use full throttle when cutting. Let chain do the work; do not force.
3. Chain Oiling: Check oil flow by pointing bar tip at a light surface and running at full throttle; a line of oil should appear.
4. Shut Down: Move Master Control lever to STOP (0).

Tip: Always engage chain brake when carrying or not actively cutting.

Maintenance Schedule

Supports long life with regular maintenance.

1. Daily/Before Use: Check chain tension, sharpness, and lubrication. Inspect for loose fasteners.
2. After Each Use: Clean air intake, exterior, and guide bar groove. Check fuel/oil levels.
3. Weekly/Monthly: Clean/replace air filter. Check spark plug condition/gap. Clean spark arrestor screen (if equipped).
4. Seasonally: Clean fuel filter. Inspect fuel lines. Check anti-vibration elements.
5. Annually: Have professional service for carburetor adjustment and compression check.

WARNING! Perform maintenance only when engine is off and cool. Disconnect spark plug wire for safety.

Chain Sharpening & Tensioning

Sharpening: Use round file matching chain pitch (e.g., 5/32" for .325" pitch). Maintain correct filing angle (typically 30°). File all cutters to equal length. Tensioning: Loosen bar nuts. Adjust tensioning screw until chain is snug against bar but can be pulled around by hand. Retighten bar nuts.

Storage Guidelines

For long-term storage: Run carburetor dry or add fuel stabilizer. Drain fuel tank if storing >30 days. Remove chain, clean, and soak in oil. Store in dry, cool place away from ignition sources.

CAUTION! Gasoline is highly flammable. Store fuel mix in approved container labeled clearly.

Regulatory Information

EPA/CARB compliant for emissions. Meets ANSI B175.1 safety standards. Copyright © STIHL. STIHL is a registered trademark. For genuine parts and service, contact an authorized STIHL servicing dealer. For support, visit www.stihlusa.com or contact customer service at 1-800-467-8445.

Troubleshooting

Reset: For electronic ignition, ensure spark plug wire is securely connected.

Service: For repairs beyond basic maintenance, take to an authorized STIHL dealer. 1-800-467-8445; www.stihlusa.com