Stihl 041 AV Super Manual

The Stihl 041 AV Super is a professional-grade chainsaw featuring an anti-vibration (AV) system, a powerful engine, and durable construction for demanding forestry and cutting applications. This manual covers safety instructions, technical specifications, operation procedures, maintenance schedules, troubleshooting, and parts identification. Below are key sections for safe operation, features, setup, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

1. Features at a Glance 2. Safety Instructions 3. Assembly & First-Time Setup 4. Technical Specifications 5. Controls and Components 6. Operation Procedures 7. Maintenance Schedule 8. Chain & Bar Care 9. Storage Guidelines 10. Warranty Information 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: Anti-Vibration (AV) system, high-performance engine, automatic chain oiler, quick-stop chain brake, decompression valve, and ergonomic handles.

FeatureDescription
Anti-Vibration SystemReduces operator fatigue by dampening engine vibrations
Engine DisplacementHigh-output two-stroke engine for professional use
Automatic Chain OilerEnsures consistent lubrication of bar and chain
Quick-Stop Chain BrakeStops chain rotation instantly in kickback situations
Decompression ValveEases starting by reducing cylinder pressure
Ergonomic HandlesDesigned for comfort and control during extended use
Chain TensioningSide-access tensioner for easy chain adjustment
Fuel Tank CapacityLarge capacity for longer operation time
Spark Arrestor MufflerReduces exhaust emissions and fire risk
Stihl Oilomatic ChainProfessional-grade cutting chain for optimal performance

Safety Instructions

Read and understand all safety warnings before operation.

  1. Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): Always wear safety glasses, hearing protection, gloves, chainsaw chaps, and steel-toed boots.
  2. Work Area Safety: Clear area of bystanders, especially children. Ensure secure footing.
  3. Kickback Prevention: Hold saw firmly with both hands. Do not cut with tip of bar. Maintain proper chain sharpness and tension.
  4. Fuel Safety: Refuel in well-ventilated area with engine off and cool. Use proper fuel/oil mix.
  5. Transport: Engage chain brake and fit scabbard over bar when carrying.

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

Assembly & First-Time Setup

Unpack and inspect all parts. Assemble on a clean, stable surface.

  1. Attach Guide Bar & Chain: Place bar on studs, loop chain over sprocket and bar, adjust tension using side screw.
  2. Fill Oil Tank: Use Stihl chain oil or equivalent. Check for leaks.
  3. Prepare Fuel Mix: Use fresh unleaded gasoline (min. 89 octane) mixed with Stihl 2-stroke oil at 50:1 ratio.
  4. Initial Start: Place saw on ground, engage chain brake, set master control lever to cold start position, pull starter cord.
  5. Run-In Period: Operate at varying speeds (no full throttle) for first 3-5 tanks to seat engine components.

CAUTION! Ensure bar and chain are correctly installed and tensioned before starting to prevent derailment or damage.

Technical Specifications

Controls and Components

Master Control Lever: Combines stop switch, choke, and run positions. Throttle Trigger & Lockout: Prevents accidental throttle engagement. Chain Brake Lever: Manual activation; also activates inertiaially. Decompression Valve: Button to press before starting. Chain Tensioner: Side-mounted screw for adjusting chain slack. Throttle Set Screw: For idle speed adjustment.

Main Components: Fuel Cap, Oil Cap, Air Filter Cover, Starter Grip, Muffler, Spark Plug, Anti-Vibration Springs, Front & Rear Handles.

Operation Procedures

Starting (Cold Engine): Engage chain brake. Set master control to choke (full left). Press decompression valve. Pull starter cord 2-3 times until engine 'pops'. Move master control to half-throttle position. Pull cord to start. Blip throttle to disengage fast idle. Starting (Warm Engine): Master control to run position. Pull cord. Cutting Techniques: Use lower quadrant of bar for bucking. Let saw do the work; avoid forcing. Plan cut to avoid pinching bar. Use wedges for felling. Stopping: Release throttle, allow idle, move master control to STOP.

Tip: Always engage chain brake when not actively cutting or when moving between cuts.

Maintenance Schedule

Daily/Before Use: Check chain tension and sharpness. Check fuel/oil levels. Inspect for loose nuts/bolts. Clean air filter (tap out debris). Check chain brake function. Weekly/Every 10 Hours: Clean spark arrestor screen. Clean cooling fins. Check bar for wear, clean groove and oil holes. Monthly/Every 50 Hours: Replace spark plug. Clean fuel filter. Check anti-vibration elements. As Needed: Sharpen chain. Replace worn bar. Clean carburetor air intake.

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

Chain & Bar Care

Sharpening: Use correct round file size. Maintain correct filing angle (typically 30°). File all cutters to equal length. Check depth gauges (rakers) and lower if necessary. Tensioning: Chain should be snug against bar but pull freely by hand. Re-tension when chain feels loose (check frequently when new). Bar Maintenance: Flip bar regularly for even wear. Clean oil channels. Dress bar rails if burred. Lubrication: Always use proper chain oil. Check oiler output by running saw at speed near a light surface (should throw oil line).

Storage Guidelines

Long-Term Storage (Over 30 Days): Drain fuel tank and run carburetor dry. Remove chain, clean and soak in oil. Clean entire saw. Remove spark plug, add a teaspoon of oil into cylinder, pull starter slowly to coat, reinstall plug. Store in dry, clean place, covered. Short-Term: Store with empty fuel tank or use fuel stabilizer.

CAUTION! Never store saw with fuel in tank for extended periods; fuel can degrade and damage carburetor.

Warranty Information

Stihl Limited Warranty: Covers defects in materials and workmanship for a specified period from date of retail purchase. Warranty is valid only for the original purchaser with proof of purchase. Does not cover damage from misuse, neglect, improper maintenance, or use of non-Stihl parts/fuel. For warranty service, contact an authorized Stihl servicing dealer. For support, visit www.stihlusa.com or contact Stihl Incorporated at 1-800-467-8445.

Troubleshooting

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
Engine will not startNo spark, flooded, fuel issueCheck spark plug, air filter. Move control to run, pull with throttle open to clear flood. Ensure fresh fuel mix.
Engine starts then diesClogged fuel filter, carburetor, ventReplace fuel filter. Clean carburetor. Check tank vent.
Loss of powerDirty air filter, clogged spark arrestor, poor fuelClean/replace air filter. Clean spark arrestor screen. Use fresh fuel.
Chain does not oilEmpty oil tank, clogged oiler, wrong oilFill tank. Clean oil passages/bar holes. Use correct chain oil.
Excessive vibrationLoose components, worn AV mounts, unbalanced chainTighten all nuts/bolts. Inspect AV springs. Sharpen chain evenly.
Chain throws off barLoose chain, worn bar, damaged drive sprocketTension chain properly. Inspect bar for wear. Replace sprocket if worn.

Service: For repairs beyond basic maintenance, take to an authorized Stihl dealer.

Support: 1-800-467-8445; www.stihlusa.com

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