Stihl Wood Boss 028 AV Owner's Manual

The Stihl Wood Boss 028 AV is a professional-grade chainsaw designed for demanding woodcutting tasks. It features the renowned Stihl AV anti-vibration system for reduced operator fatigue, a powerful two-stroke engine, automatic chain oiling, easy-start technology, and a robust construction for durability. Below are key sections for safety, features, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

Features at a Glance

Key components: Engine with electronic ignition, Anti-Vibration (AV) system, Chain brake, Automatic and manual chain oiling, Decompression valve, QuickStop inertia chain brake.

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 20 feet away. Ensure secure footing.
3. Fuel Safety: Refuel in a well-ventilated area with engine off and cool. Use approved fuel containers.
4. Kickback Zone: Be aware of the upper quadrant of the guide bar tip. Avoid contact.
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 but does not guarantee prevention of injury.

Assembly & Preparation

Unpack and inspect contents. Assemble guide bar and chain.

1. Attach Guide Bar & Chain: Place bar on studs. Loop chain over sprocket and onto bar groove with cutters facing forward. Install clutch cover and tighten nuts finger-tight.
2. Tension Chain: Use side-access tensioner screw to raise bar tip. Tighten chain until it snaps back when pulled from the bar. Tighten clutch cover nuts securely.
3. Fill Tanks: Add fresh fuel mix (50:1 gasoline to STIHL 2-cycle oil) to fuel tank. Fill oil tank with STIHL chain oil or equivalent.
4. Check Controls: Ensure throttle trigger, throttle lockout, and chain brake function correctly.

CAUTION! Always wear protective gloves when handling the chain. Ensure chain is properly tensioned before each use.

Specifications

• Engine Displacement: 3.4 cu. in. (54.2 cc)
• Power Output: 3.4 bhp
• Fuel/Oil Ratio: 50:1 (STIHL 2-cycle oil)
• Guide Bar Lengths: 16", 18", 20" (depending on model)
• Chain Pitch: 3/8"
• Chain Gauge: .050"
• Dry Weight (w/o bar & chain): Approx. 12.8 lbs (5.8 kg)
• Ignition System: Electronic, capacitor discharge
• Anti-Vibration: STIHL AV system
• Safety Features: QuickStop chain brake, throttle interlock, right-hand guard

Controls and Components

Master Control Lever: Combines stop switch, choke, and fast idle functions. Throttle Trigger Lockout: Must be depressed to engage throttle. Chain Brake Lever: Located forward of the front handle; activate manually or by inertia. Decompression Valve: Button to press before starting cold engine.

Other Controls: Throttle trigger, Choke knob (on Master Control), Manual fuel primer bulb (on some models), Chain oiler adjustment screw, Side-access chain tensioner.

Starting & Stopping the Engine

Cold Start:

1. Engage chain brake. Place saw on firm ground.
2. Press decompression valve (if equipped).
3. Set Master Control lever to choke position (full up).
4. Press throttle trigger lockout and squeeze throttle trigger once to set fast idle.
5. Pull starter rope sharply until engine fires (usually 2-5 pulls).
6. Immediately move Master Control lever to half-throttle (mid) position.
7. Pull starter rope again to start engine. It will run at fast idle.
8. Blip throttle to disengage fast idle and return to idle.
9. Disengage chain brake before cutting.

Warm Start: Master Control lever in run position (down). No choke needed.

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

Operating Procedures

Always maintain a firm grip with both hands.

1. Basic Cutting: Let the saw do the work. Use full throttle in the cut. Do not force the saw.
2. Kickback Prevention: Do not cut with the upper tip of the bar. Be aware of wood tension and binding.
3. Refueling & Oiling: Stop engine. Check oil level frequently. Adjust oiler screw for more/less oil flow as needed.
4. Chain Brake Test: Before each use, at idle, manually engage the chain brake. The chain should stop immediately.

Tip: Plan your cuts to avoid the bar becoming pinched. Use wedges for felling and bucking.

Maintenance Schedule

Perform daily checks before operation. Follow regular service intervals.

Chain & Bar Care

Proper care extends life and ensures safe operation.

1. Sharpening: Use correct round file size (typically 5/32" for 3/8" chain). Maintain correct filing angle (usually 30°). File all cutters to equal length.
2. Depth Gauges: File down depth gauges (rakers) with a flat file and gauge to maintain proper height difference.
3. Bar Maintenance: Regularly clean bar groove and oil holes. Flip the bar periodically for even wear. Dress bar rails with a flat file if burred.
4. Lubrication: Always use proper chain oil. Never use waste oil. Adjust oiler for adequate flow, especially in dirty or cold conditions.

CAUTION! A dull chain increases kickback risk and operator fatigue. Always stop the engine before performing maintenance.

Storage Instructions

Prepare the saw for storage to prevent fuel system issues.

1. Drain the fuel tank and run the engine until it stops to clear the carburetor.
2. Remove the chain and bar. Clean thoroughly and coat with oil to prevent rust.
3. Clean the entire saw, removing sawdust and debris from cooling fins and air intake.
4. Store in a dry, secure place, out of reach of children.

Long-Term Storage: Consider using a fuel stabilizer if you cannot drain the system completely.

Troubleshooting

Service: For major repairs, contact an authorized STIHL servicing dealer. Use only genuine STIHL parts.

Support: Visit www.stihlusa.com or contact your local STIHL dealer.