The Stihl 041 Farm Boss is a professional-grade chainsaw designed for demanding forestry and farm work. This manual covers essential safety procedures, technical specifications, daily operation, routine maintenance, troubleshooting, and parts identification for the 041 model. Below are key sections for safe and efficient operation of your chainsaw.
Operating a chainsaw involves serious risks. Always wear proper Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) including safety glasses, hearing protection, gloves, chainsaw chaps, and steel-toed boots.
| Hazard | Precaution |
|---|---|
| Kickback | Always grip saw firmly with both hands; use a reduced-kickback chain; do not cut with the tip of the bar. |
| Fuel Handling | Refuel in a well-ventilated area, away from ignition sources. Allow engine to cool. |
| Chain Contact | Ensure chain brake is functional. Keep bystanders at a safe distance. |
| Falling Limbs | Be aware of your surroundings, especially overhead hazards. |
| Exhaust Fumes | Operate only in well-ventilated areas to prevent carbon monoxide poisoning. |
WARNING! Failure to follow safety instructions can result in serious injury or death. Read and understand this manual completely before operation.
Unpack and inspect all components. Assemble on a clean, stable surface.
CAUTION! Use only STIHL-approved guide bars, chains, and lubricants. Incorrect assembly can lead to failure and injury.
Familiarize yourself with all controls before starting the engine.
Main Controls: Front Handle with Hand Guard/Chain Brake, Rear Handle with Throttle Trigger, Throttle Lockout, Master Control Lever (Choke/Start/Run), Decompression Valve Button, Chain Tensioner, Manual Fuel Pump (Primer).
Operation: Always use a firm two-handed grip. Stand with feet shoulder-width apart for balance. Let the saw do the work; do not force it. Plan your cut and escape path before starting.
Fuel Mix: Use a high-quality 2-stroke engine oil mixed with unleaded gasoline (min. 89 octane) at a ratio of 50:1 (2.6 oz oil per 1 gal gas). Shake container thoroughly.
Chain Oil: Use STIHL chain oil or a quality biodegradable bar & chain oil for optimal lubrication and bar life. Check oil flow before each use.
WARNING! Never use straight gasoline, automotive motor oil, or dirty/old fuel mix. This will cause severe engine damage.
Cold Start:
Warm Start: Set Master Control lever to half-throttle position and pull starter.
Stopping: Release throttle, allow engine to idle. Push Master Control lever up to "STOP" position.
| Interval | Task |
|---|---|
| Daily / Before Use | Check chain tension, sharpness, and lubrication. Inspect for loose nuts/bolts. Clean air intake and cooling fins. |
| Every 10 Hours | Clean spark plug, check electrode gap (0.020"). Clean or replace air filter. |
| Every 20 Hours | Check fuel filter and replace if clogged. Clean spark arrestor screen in muffler. |
| Every 50 Hours | Check clutch, sprocket, and anti-vibration elements. Grease needle bearing in clutch drum. |
| Annually / 100 Hrs | Replace fuel line and filter if cracked. Have carburetor adjusted by a STIHL dealer. |
A sharp, properly tensioned chain is critical for safety and performance.
Tip: File from inside cutter to outside. Rotate file slightly with each stroke. Sharpen frequently for best results.
| Symptom | Possible Cause | Corrective Action |
|---|---|---|
| Engine won't start | No spark, flooded, old fuel, clogged filter | Check spark plug; use fresh fuel mix; clean/replace air/fuel filter; avoid over-priming. |
| Engine runs poorly/dies | Dirty air filter, clogged fuel filter, carb adjustment | Clean air filter; replace fuel filter; have carb adjusted by dealer. |
| Chain doesn't turn | Chain brake engaged, clutch worn, sprocket damaged | Disengage chain brake; inspect clutch drum and sprocket for wear. |
| Excessive vibration | Loose components, damaged AV mounts, unbalanced chain | Tighten all fasteners; inspect anti-vibration elements; balance chain by sharpening evenly. |
| Chain throws oil | Oil output too high, wrong oil type | Check oiler adjustment; use correct bar & chain oil. |
Refer to the official STIHL 041 Farm Boss Illustrated Parts List (IPL) for a complete breakdown. Key assemblies include:
Note: Always use genuine STIHL replacement parts to ensure safety, performance, and warranty compliance.
STIHL products are backed by a limited warranty. Proof of purchase from an authorized STIHL dealer is required.
For Service: Repairs should be performed by an authorized STIHL servicing dealer. They have the proper tools, training, and access to genuine parts.
Support: For the location of your nearest dealer, technical questions, or to order manuals/parts, visit www.stihlusa.com or contact STIHL Incorporated at 1-800-467-8445.
Disclaimer: Specifications subject to change without notice. Operator is responsible for safe use and maintenance.