Stihl 028 Wood Boss Manual

The Stihl 028 Wood Boss is a professional-grade gasoline-powered chainsaw designed for demanding woodcutting tasks. It features a robust engine, advanced anti-vibration system, automatic chain oiling, and safety features like a chain brake and throttle lockout. Below are key sections for safety, features, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

Features at a Glance

Key components: Engine, Fuel Tank, Oil Tank, Chain Brake, Throttle Trigger, Master Control Lever, Decompression Valve, Anti-Vibration System.

Safety Instructions

Read and understand all instructions before operation. Always wear proper PPE.

1. Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): Always wear safety glasses, hearing protection, gloves, chainsaw chaps/pants, and sturdy boots.
2. Pre-Operation Check: Inspect saw for damage, ensure chain is sharp and tensioned correctly, check fuel and oil levels.
3. Operating Zone: Keep bystanders and pets at least 15 feet away. Be aware of your surroundings.
4. Kickback Prevention: Hold saw firmly with both hands. Do not cut with the tip/nose of the guide bar.
5. Fuel Safety: Refuel in a well-ventilated area, away from ignition sources. Use only approved gasoline/oil mix.

WARNING! Failure to follow safety instructions can result in serious injury or death. The chain brake is a safety device but does not eliminate the risk of kickback.

Assembly & First Use

Unpack and inspect contents. Assemble guide bar and chain.

1. Attach Guide Bar & Chain: Loosen bar nuts. Place bar over studs. Fit chain over sprocket and bar, ensuring cutting teeth face forward on top. Tighten nuts, then adjust chain tension.
2. Fill Fluids: Add fresh fuel mix (50:1 gasoline to STIHL 2-cycle oil) to fuel tank. Fill separate oil tank with STIHL chain oil or equivalent.
3. Starting Procedure (Cold Engine): Set Master Control Lever to choke position (full down). Press decompression valve. Pull starter rope sharply until engine 'fires'. Move lever to half-throttle position. Pull again to start. Let run briefly, then move lever to run position.
4. Warm Start: Set Master Control Lever to run position and pull starter.

CAUTION! Ensure chain brake is disengaged (pulled back toward front handle) before starting. Do not drop-start the saw.

Specifications

• Model: STIHL 028 Wood Boss
• Engine Type: Air-cooled, two-stroke, single-cylinder
• Displacement: 51.5 cc
• Powerhead Weight: Approx. 12.1 lbs (5.5 kg) without bar and chain
• Fuel/Oil Mix Ratio: 50:1 (Gasoline to STIHL 2-Cycle Engine Oil)
• Fuel Tank Capacity: Approx. 0.95 US pt (0.45 l)
• Oil Tank Capacity: Approx. 0.63 US pt (0.30 l)
• Ignition System: Electronic, breakerless
• Recommended Guide Bar Length: 16" - 20"
• Chain Pitch/Gauge: Typically .325" pitch, .063" gauge

Controls and Components

Familiarize yourself with all controls before operation.

Right Side: Throttle Trigger, Throttle Lockout, Front Handle, Chain Brake Lever (Front Hand Guard), Muffler.

Left Side: Rear Handle, Master Control Lever (Choke/Start/Run), Decompression Valve, Fuel and Oil Caps, Starter Grip.

Operation: Master Control Lever controls choke and start settings. Throttle Lockout must be depressed to allow throttle trigger movement. Pulling the front hand guard back toward the operator engages the chain brake.

Operation Guide

Proper technique ensures safety and efficiency.

1. Stance & Grip: Stand with feet shoulder-width apart, firm footing. Grip front handle with left hand, rear handle with right hand. Keep elbows slightly bent.
2. Starting Cut: Apply light throttle. Let the saw do the work; do not force it. Use the bumper spikes to pivot the saw into the wood.
3. Bucking (Cutting Logs): Support log off ground. Cut from top down. For large logs, cut one-third from top, then finish from bottom to avoid pinching.
4. Felling Trees: Not recommended for untrained users. Requires proper notch and back cut techniques. Seek professional training.
5. Chain Brake Test: Regularly test by running saw at idle and pulling hand guard back. Chain should stop immediately.

Tip: Listen to the engine. A screaming engine under little load indicates a dull chain or incorrect technique.

Maintenance Schedule

Regular maintenance ensures longevity and safe operation.

WARNING! Always disconnect the spark plug boot before performing any maintenance other than checking chain tension or fluid levels.

Chain & Bar Care

Proper chain care is critical for performance and safety.

1. Sharpening: Use correct round file size (.325" chain typically uses a 4.0mm or 5/32" file). Maintain correct filing angle (typically 30°). File all cutters to equal length.
2. Tensioning: Chain should be snug against bar but pull freely by hand. Re-tension when chain feels loose (check frequently when new). Tighten bar nuts after adjusting.
3. Bar Maintenance: Regularly clean bar groove. Flip bar weekly for even wear. Dress bar rails with a flat file if burred.
4. Lubrication: Always use proper chain oil. Check oil flow by running saw at high speed near a light-colored surface; a line of oil should be visible.

CAUTION! A dull or loose chain increases the risk of kickback and causes excessive wear.

Storage Guidelines

Prepare saw for storage to prevent fuel system issues.

1. Short-Term (Under 30 days): Run saw until fuel tank is empty. Store in a dry, clean place.
2. Long-Term: Drain all fuel from tank and carburetor. Run engine until it stops. Remove spark plug, add a teaspoon of 2-stroke oil into cylinder, pull starter slowly 2-3 times to coat, reinstall plug. Clean entire saw. Store in a dry place, covered.

WARNING! Never store a chainsaw with fuel in the tank for extended periods. Old fuel can gum up the carburetor.

Warranty Information

STIHL Limited Warranty: The STIHL 028 Wood Boss is backed by a limited warranty for personal use. Warranty details and period vary by region. Proof of purchase from an authorized STIHL dealer is required. Warranty does not cover damage from misuse, neglect, improper maintenance, or use of non-STIHL parts/fuel. For warranty service, contact the authorized STIHL dealer where the product was purchased. For product support and dealer locator, visit www.stihlusa.com.

Troubleshooting

Service: For repairs beyond basic maintenance, take your STIHL 028 to an authorized STIHL servicing dealer. Use only genuine STIHL replacement parts.