Stihl Chainsaw 015L Manual

The Stihl 015L is a lightweight, professional-grade gasoline chainsaw designed for demanding cutting tasks. It features a powerful engine, robust construction, advanced safety systems including a chain brake and throttle lockout, low-vibration technology, and easy maintenance access. Below are key sections for safety, features, assembly, operation, maintenance, troubleshooting, and specifications.

Features at a Glance

Key components: High-performance 2-stroke engine, Anti-Vibration System (AVS), QuickStop® chain brake, side-access chain tensioner, tool-free air filter cover, and decompression valve for easy starting.

Safety Information

Read all instructions before operation. Always wear protective equipment.

1. Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): Wear safety glasses, hearing protection, gloves, chainsaw chaps, and sturdy boots.
2. Operating Area: Ensure clear work zone, stable footing, and no bystanders within 15 feet.
3. Kickback Awareness: Hold saw firmly with both hands; avoid contact with bar nose.
4. Fuel Safety: Mix fuel outdoors; use approved gasoline and STIHL 2-stroke oil at 50:1 ratio.

WARNING! Chainsaws are dangerous. Failure to follow safety rules can result in serious injury or death. Never operate when fatigued or under influence.

Assembly & Preparation

Unpack and inspect contents. Assemble bar and chain, fill fluids.

1. Attach Guide Bar & Chain: Place bar on studs, loop chain over sprocket, adjust tension via side knob.
2. Fuel Mix: Use 89+ octane unleaded gasoline mixed with STIHL HP Ultra oil at 50:1 ratio. Shake well.
3. Fill Fuel Tank: Use funnel; avoid spills. Wipe clean.
4. Fill Chain Oil: Use STIHL chain oil or equivalent. Check oiler function.
5. Check Chain Tension: Chain should snap back when pulled from bar; adjust if loose.

CAUTION! Fuel is highly flammable. No smoking. Allow engine to cool before refueling.

Specifications

• Model: STIHL 015L
• Engine Type: Single-cylinder, 2-stroke, air-cooled
• Bore x Stroke: 34 mm x 35 mm
• Idle Speed: 2,800 rpm
• Maximum Power Speed: 9,500 rpm
• Spark Plug: Bosch WSR6F or equivalent, gap 0.020" (0.5 mm)
• Carburetor: Walbro diaphragm with manual choke
• Starter: Rewind with decompression valve
• Chain Brake: QuickStop® inertia-activated
• Warranty: Limited 1-year commercial, 2-year residential

Controls and Components

Main controls located on rear handle and body. Front Handle: Includes throttle trigger and throttle lockout. Rear Handle: Contains master control lever (stop switch/choke), decompression valve, and primer bulb.

Master Control Lever Positions: STOP (0): Engine off. RUN (I): Normal operation. START (Choke): Cold start position.

Chain Brake: Manual activation via front hand guard; inertia-activated during kickback. Chain Tensioner: Side-mounted knob for quick adjustment. Air Filter: Tool-free cover for easy cleaning.

Starting & Operation

Starting Procedure (Cold Engine):

1. Place saw on clear, level ground. Engage chain brake.
2. Set master control to START (choke). Press decompression valve.
3. Pump primer bulb 5-6 times until fuel is visible.
4. Hold rear handle with right foot, pull starter rope sharply until engine fires.
5. Move master control to RUN. Pull again to start.
6. Disengage chain brake before cutting.

Cutting Techniques: Use full throttle when cutting. Let chain do the work; do not force. Plan escape path. Beware of pinch points and falling material.

Maintenance Schedule

Tip: Use only STIHL-approved parts and lubricants for optimal performance.

Chain Sharpening & Tensioning

Proper chain maintenance ensures safety and performance.

1. Sharpening: Use round file matching chain pitch (5/32" for 3/8" PM). File each cutter at 30° angle, maintaining equal length. File depth gauges with flat file.
2. Tensioning: Loosen bar nuts. Turn tensioning knob clockwise until chain fits snug against bar. Tighten bar nuts. Re-check tension after brief use.
3. Lubrication: Ensure oiler is working; chain should throw light oil mist during operation.

WARNING! Always wear gloves when handling chain. Ensure saw is off and cool.

Storage Guidelines

For long-term storage (over 30 days):

1. Drain fuel tank and run engine until it stops to clear carburetor.
2. Remove chain, clean, and soak in oil. Store bar coated with oil.
3. Clean entire saw, especially cooling fins and air filter.
4. Store in dry, cool place, away from ignition sources.

CAUTION! Never store with fuel in tank indoors. Fuel can degrade and damage components.

Warranty Information

STIHL Limited Warranty: 1 year for commercial use, 2 years for residential use from date of purchase. Covers defects in materials/workmanship. Does not cover normal wear, misuse, improper maintenance, or non-STIHL parts. Proof of purchase required. For warranty service, contact an authorized STIHL servicing dealer.

Troubleshooting

Service: For repairs, use only authorized STIHL dealers. Find a dealer at www.stihlusa.com or call 1-800-467-8445.