Stihl 029 Super Chainsaw Manual

The Stihl 029 Super is a professional-grade gasoline-powered chainsaw designed for demanding cutting tasks. It features a powerful engine with electronic ignition, an anti-vibration system, a QuickStop chain brake, an automatic oiler, and a decompression valve for easier starting. Below are key sections for safety, features, assembly, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

Features at a Glance

Key components: Engine with electronic ignition (CDI), anti-vibration system, QuickStop inertia-activated chain brake, side-access chain tensioner, automatic and manual chain oiling, decompression valve, and STIHL Ematic chain lubrication 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. Work Area Safety: Keep bystanders and pets at least 30 feet away. Ensure secure footing.
3. Fuel Safety: Refuel in a well-ventilated area with engine off and cool. Use only STIHL-approved gasoline/oil mix.
4. Kickback Zone: Be aware of the upper quadrant of the guide bar nose. Do not let this area contact objects.
5. Carrying: Carry the saw with the engine stopped, guide bar to the rear, and chain brake engaged.

WARNING! Failure to follow safety instructions can result in serious injury or death. The chain brake is a safety device; test it before each use.

Assembly & Preparation

Assemble guide bar, chain, and handle. Prepare fuel mix.

1. Attach Guide Bar & Chain: Loosen bar nuts. Place bar on studs. Fit drive links of chain into bar groove and around sprocket. Ensure cutting edges face forward on top of bar. Tighten nuts finger-tight.
2. Tension Chain: Use side-access tensioning screw to raise bar tip and take up slack. Chain should be snug but pull freely by hand. Retighten bar nuts securely.
3. Fill Oil Tank: Use STIHL chainsaw bar and chain oil. Fill to marked level.
4. Prepare Fuel: Mix high-quality unleaded gasoline (min. 89 octane) with STIHL 2-cycle engine oil at a 50:1 ratio. Shake well. Fill fuel tank.
5. Check Controls: Ensure throttle trigger, throttle lockout, and chain brake function correctly.

CAUTION! Never use automotive motor oil or old/gasoline. Improper fuel mix will damage the engine.

Specifications

• Model: STIHL 029 Super
• Engine Type: Single cylinder, two-stroke, air-cooled
• Displacement: 56.5 cm³ (3.45 cu. in.)
• Powerhead Weight: Approx. 12.8 lbs (5.8 kg) without bar and chain
• Fuel/Oil Ratio: 50:1 (STIHL 2-Stroke Oil)
• Ignition: CDI, electronically controlled
• Spark Plug: STIHL or equivalent, gap 0.020" (0.5 mm)
• Chain Pitch/Gauge: 3/8" PM / .050" (1.3 mm) typically
• Sound Pressure Level: Approx. 112 dB(A) (Wear hearing protection!)
• Vibration Level: Reduced by anti-vibration system

Controls and Components

Familiarize yourself with all controls before starting.

Main Components: Front Handguard/Chain Brake Lever, Throttle Trigger, Throttle Lockout, Choke/Start Control Lever, Decompression Valve, Master Control Lever (STOP-0, RUN-F, START- ), Chain Catcher, Muffler, Spark Arrestor Screen, Side-Access Chain Tensioner, Oil Filler Cap, Fuel Filler Cap.

Operation: Master Control combines choke, run, and stop functions. Pulling the chain brake lever forward (toward bar) engages the brake. Pushing it back disengages. The decompression valve button reduces cylinder pressure for easier pull starts.

Starting & Stopping Procedure

Cold Start:

1. Engage chain brake by pushing handguard forward.
2. Press decompression valve (if equipped).
3. Set Master Control Lever to START/choke position ( ).
4. Press throttle lockout and squeeze throttle trigger once to unlock.
5. Place saw on firm ground. Hold front handle with left hand, place right foot in rear handle. Pull starter rope briskly until engine 'pops'.
6. Move Master Control Lever to RUN position (F).
7. Pull starter rope again until engine starts. Let idle briefly.
8. Disengage chain brake by pulling handguard back toward you. Saw is ready.

Warm Start: Master Control to RUN (F). Follow steps 4-8.

Stopping: Release throttle, allow to idle. Move Master Control to STOP (0).

Operating Instructions

Proper technique is critical for safety and efficiency.

1. Basic Stance: Stand with feet shoulder-width apart, left foot slightly forward. Hold saw firmly with both hands.
2. Making a Cut: Use full throttle before the chain contacts the wood. Let the saw do the work; do not force it. Be aware of pinch points, especially when cutting logs under tension.
3. Kickback Prevention: Maintain a firm grip. Do not cut with the upper nose of the guide bar. Use a reduced-kickback chain and guide bar.
4. Chain Oiling: The automatic oiler works when the engine runs. For heavy cutting, use manual override (press oil pump plunger). Check oil level frequently.
5. Refueling: Stop engine and allow to cool. Clean area around caps. Refuel and oil on level ground.

WARNING! Never operate the chainsaw with one hand, above shoulder height, or on a ladder. Always plan your cut and escape path.

Maintenance Schedule

Chain & Bar Care

Proper care extends life and ensures safe operation.

1. Sharpening: Use a round file and file guide matching chain pitch. Maintain correct filing angle (typically 30°). File all cutters to equal length. File depth gauges (rakers) with a flat file and gauge.
2. Chain Tension: A new chain stretches. Check tension frequently during first tank of fuel. Correct tension: snug against bar, but pull freely by hand. Tighten when chain sags from bottom of bar.
3. Bar Maintenance: Regularly clean bar groove and oil holes. Flip the bar over weekly for even wear. Dress bar rails with a flat file if burred.
4. Lubrication: Always use proper bar and chain oil. It has tackifiers to stay on the chain. In cold weather, use winter-grade oil.

CAUTION! A dull or poorly maintained chain increases kickback risk and operator fatigue.

Storage Guidelines

Prepare saw for storage to prevent fuel system issues.

1. Short-Term (under 30 days): Drain fuel tank and run engine until it stops to clear carburetor. Store in a dry, secure place.
2. Long-Term (over 30 days): 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 rope slowly 2-3 times to coat internals, reinstall plug. Clean entire saw. Loosen chain tension. Store in a dry, frost-free location.

WARNING! Never store a chainsaw with fuel in the tank or carburetor. Fuel will degrade and clog the system.

Troubleshooting

Service Note: For repairs beyond basic maintenance (carburetor, ignition, brake system, engine disassembly), contact an authorized STIHL servicing dealer.

STIHL Customer Service: 1-800-467-8445 | www.stihlusa.com