Stihl 034 AV Super Chainsaw Guide (5 Pro Woodcutting Tips)

Let’s face it, the Stihl 034 AV Super isn’t your fancy, modern chainsaw packed with electronic wizardry. It’s a workhorse, a reliable beast from a bygone era when chainsaws were built to last. And that’s precisely why so many of us still swear by it. I’ve been using my 034 AV Super for over 20 years, and it’s felled countless trees and processed mountains of firewood. It’s a chainsaw that demands respect, understanding, and a bit of elbow grease, but in return, it delivers unmatched power and dependability. This guide isn’t just about how to use the Stihl 034 AV Super; it’s about mastering it, understanding its quirks, and maximizing its potential. I’ll share five pro woodcutting tips I’ve learned over the years to help you get the most out of this legendary machine.

Understanding the Stihl 034 AV Super: A Foundation for Success

Before diving into the pro tips, it’s crucial to understand the 034 AV Super’s DNA. This chainsaw, produced from the late 1980s to the early 2000s, is known for its robust 56cc engine, a powerhouse capable of handling a wide range of tasks, from felling medium-sized trees to bucking logs for firewood. However, its age also means it requires a different approach than newer models.

Key Specifications:
- Engine Displacement: 56cc
- Power Output: Approximately 3.4 bhp (2.5 kW)
- Weight: Around 13.2 lbs (6 kg) without bar and chain
- Bar Length: Typically used with 16-20 inch bars
- Why It’s Still Relevant: The 034 AV Super’s simplicity is its strength. Fewer electronic components mean fewer things to go wrong. Its sturdy construction and powerful engine make it a reliable choice for both homeowners and professionals.
- Potential Drawbacks: Being an older model, finding replacement parts can sometimes be a challenge. Regular maintenance is crucial to keep it running smoothly. It also lacks some of the modern safety features found on newer chainsaws.

Pro Tip #1: Mastering the Art of Sharpening

A sharp chain is the single most important factor in efficient and safe woodcutting. A dull chain not only makes the work harder, requiring more force and increasing the risk of kickback, but it also puts unnecessary strain on the chainsaw’s engine. I cannot stress this enough: learn to sharpen your chain properly.

The Importance of a Sharp Chain: A sharp chain bites into the wood effortlessly, producing clean, uniform chips. A dull chain, on the other hand, tears and grinds, creating sawdust and significantly increasing cutting time.
Sharpening Tools:
- Round File and Guide: The most common and affordable method. Requires practice to maintain the correct angle and depth. I recommend using a file guide specifically designed for your chain’s pitch.
- Electric Chain Sharpener: Offers greater precision and speed, especially for those new to sharpening. However, it’s essential to use it carefully to avoid removing too much material.
- File and Raker Gauge: Essential for maintaining the correct raker (depth gauge) height. Lowering the rakers too much can cause aggressive cutting and increased kickback risk.
- Sharpening Technique:
- Secure the Chainsaw: Clamp the chainsaw in a vise or use a chainsaw stand.
- Identify the Cutting Angle: Consult your chain manufacturer’s specifications for the correct filing angle.
- File Each Tooth: Use smooth, consistent strokes, filing from the inside of the tooth outwards. Maintain the correct angle and depth.
- Check Raker Height: Use a raker gauge to ensure the rakers are at the correct height. File them down if necessary.
- Frequency: Sharpen your chain every time you refuel or when you notice a decrease in cutting performance. I typically sharpen mine after every tank of gas, especially when cutting hardwoods.
- Personal Experience: I’ve seen firsthand the difference a sharp chain makes. I was once felling a large oak tree with a dull chain, and it took me nearly twice as long as it should have. Not only that, but the chainsaw was overheating, and I was exhausting myself. After sharpening the chain, the chainsaw sliced through the wood like butter, and the job was completed much faster and with less effort.

Pro Tip #2: Optimizing Fuel and Lubrication

The Stihl 034 AV Super, like any two-stroke engine, relies on a precise mix of fuel and oil for optimal performance and longevity. Using the wrong fuel mixture or neglecting lubrication can lead to engine damage and premature wear.

Fuel Mixture:
- Recommended Ratio: Stihl typically recommends a 50:1 fuel-to-oil ratio for the 034 AV Super. This means 50 parts gasoline to 1 part two-stroke oil.
- Gasoline: Use high-quality gasoline with a minimum octane rating of 89. Avoid using gasoline containing ethanol, as it can damage the engine’s rubber and plastic components over time. If ethanol-blended gasoline is unavoidable, use a fuel stabilizer.
- Two-Stroke Oil: Use a high-quality two-stroke oil specifically designed for air-cooled engines. Stihl Ultra oil is a popular choice, but other reputable brands like Husqvarna and Echo also offer excellent options.
- Mixing Procedure: Always mix the fuel and oil in a separate container, not directly in the chainsaw’s fuel tank. Add the oil to the gasoline and shake vigorously to ensure a thorough mixture.
- Chain Lubrication:
- Importance: The chain and bar need constant lubrication to reduce friction and prevent overheating. Insufficient lubrication can lead to rapid wear of the chain, bar, and sprocket.
- Oil Type: Use a high-quality bar and chain oil specifically designed for chainsaws. These oils are formulated to cling to the chain and provide excellent lubrication even at high speeds.
- Oil Level: Check the oil level frequently and refill as needed. I typically refill the oil tank every time I refuel the gas tank.
- Oil Pump Function: Ensure the oil pump is functioning correctly. You should see a steady stream of oil being ejected from the chainsaw when the chain is running. If not, the oil pump may need to be cleaned or repaired.
- Data Point: Studies have shown that using the correct fuel mixture and high-quality bar and chain oil can extend the lifespan of a chainsaw engine by up to 30%.
- Personal Experience: I once used a cheap, generic two-stroke oil in my 034 AV Super, and the engine started running rough and losing power. After switching back to Stihl Ultra oil, the engine performance immediately improved. This experience taught me the importance of using high-quality lubricants.

Pro Tip #3: Mastering Felling Techniques

Felling a tree safely and efficiently requires careful planning, proper technique, and a thorough understanding of tree behavior. Never underestimate the power and unpredictability of a falling tree.

Safety First:
- Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): Always wear appropriate PPE, including a helmet, eye protection, hearing protection, gloves, chainsaw chaps, and steel-toed boots.
- Situational Awareness: Assess the surroundings for hazards such as power lines, buildings, roads, and other people. Be aware of the wind direction and its potential impact on the tree’s fall.
- Escape Routes: Plan two escape routes at a 45-degree angle away from the anticipated direction of the fall. Clear the escape routes of any obstacles.
- Felling Cuts:
- The Notch (Face Cut): The notch determines the direction of the fall. It consists of two cuts: the top cut, angled downwards at approximately 45 degrees, and the bottom cut, horizontal and meeting the top cut to form a wedge-shaped opening. The depth of the notch should be about 1/5 to 1/3 of the tree’s diameter.
- The Hinge: The hinge is the uncut wood between the notch and the back cut. It controls the tree’s fall and prevents it from twisting or kicking back. The hinge should be about 1/10 of the tree’s diameter.
- The Back Cut: The back cut is made on the opposite side of the tree from the notch, slightly above the horizontal cut of the notch. Leave the hinge intact.
- Felling Aids:
- Felling Wedges: Used to help direct the fall of the tree and prevent the bar from getting pinched. Insert the wedges into the back cut before completing the cut.
- Felling Lever: Used to help push the tree over in the desired direction.
- Tree Lean and Wind: Always consider the tree’s natural lean and the wind direction when planning the fall. If the tree is leaning in a particular direction, it will naturally want to fall in that direction. Wind can significantly affect the tree’s fall, so be extra cautious on windy days.
- Data Point: According to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), improper felling techniques are a leading cause of chainsaw-related injuries.
- Personal Experience: I once underestimated the lean of a tree and nearly had it fall in the wrong direction. Luckily, I was able to use a felling wedge to correct the fall, but it was a close call. This experience reinforced the importance of careful planning and situational awareness.

Pro Tip #4: Bucking and Limbing with Precision

Once the tree is felled, the next step is to buck it into manageable lengths and remove the branches (limbing). These tasks require different techniques and considerations.

Bucking (Cutting Logs to Length):
- Safety Stance: Maintain a stable stance and keep your feet firmly planted on the ground. Avoid cutting directly in front of your body.
- Log Support: Whenever possible, support the log to prevent it from pinching the chainsaw bar. Use logs, rocks, or purpose-built log supports.
- Cutting Techniques:
  - Overbucking: Cutting from the top down. Use this technique when the log is supported from below.
  - Underbucking: Cutting from the bottom up. Use this technique when the log is supported from above.
  - Combination Cut: A combination of overbucking and underbucking, used for larger logs.
    - Avoiding Pinching: If the bar starts to get pinched, stop cutting and use a wedge to open the cut.
  - Limbing (Removing Branches):
- Safety First: Be aware of the potential for branches to spring back when cut. Start by removing the smaller branches and work your way up to the larger ones.
- Cutting Techniques:
  - Cut on the Tension Side: Cut the branch on the side that is under tension to prevent it from pinching the bar.
  - Support the Branch: Support the branch with your hand or foot while cutting to prevent it from falling unexpectedly.
    - Avoiding Kickback: Be especially careful when limbing, as the tip of the bar can easily come into contact with branches, causing kickback.
  - Ergonomics: Take frequent breaks to avoid fatigue. Use proper lifting techniques to prevent back injuries.
  - Personal Experience: I used to rush through the bucking and limbing process, which often led to mistakes and near misses. Now, I take my time, plan each cut carefully, and prioritize safety. This approach has not only reduced the risk of injury but also improved my efficiency.

Pro Tip #5: Maintaining Your 034 AV Super for Peak Performance

The Stihl 034 AV Super is a durable machine, but it requires regular maintenance to keep it running smoothly and reliably. Neglecting maintenance can lead to costly repairs and a shortened lifespan.

Daily Maintenance:
- Check Chain Tension: Ensure the chain is properly tensioned. A loose chain can derail and cause damage. A tight chain can overheat and wear prematurely.
- Clean Air Filter: A dirty air filter restricts airflow and reduces engine performance. Clean the air filter regularly with compressed air or warm soapy water.
- Inspect Spark Plug: Check the spark plug for signs of wear or fouling. Replace it if necessary.
- Sharpen Chain: As mentioned earlier, a sharp chain is essential for efficient and safe woodcutting.
- Weekly Maintenance:
- Clean Bar Groove: The bar groove can become clogged with sawdust and debris, reducing lubrication. Clean the groove with a screwdriver or a specialized bar groove cleaner.
- Inspect Sprocket: Check the sprocket for wear. A worn sprocket can damage the chain.
- Grease Bar Tip Sprocket: Lubricate the bar tip sprocket with grease to ensure smooth operation.
- Monthly Maintenance:
- Clean Fuel Filter: A clogged fuel filter can restrict fuel flow and cause engine problems. Replace the fuel filter if necessary.
- Inspect Fuel Lines: Check the fuel lines for cracks or leaks. Replace them if necessary.
- Check Anti-Vibration System: Ensure the anti-vibration system is functioning correctly. Worn or damaged anti-vibration mounts can increase fatigue and the risk of injury.
- Seasonal Maintenance:
- Drain Fuel Tank: If you’re not going to be using the chainsaw for an extended period, drain the fuel tank to prevent the fuel from going stale.
- Fog Engine: Fog the engine with storage oil to protect it from corrosion.
- Store Chainsaw Properly: Store the chainsaw in a dry, protected location.
- Data Point: Regular maintenance can extend the lifespan of a chainsaw by up to 50%.
- Personal Experience: I once neglected to clean the air filter on my 034 AV Super, and the engine started running poorly and eventually stalled. After cleaning the air filter, the engine ran like new again. This experience taught me the importance of regular maintenance. I now have a maintenance schedule that I stick to religiously.

Wood Anatomy and Properties: Knowing Your Material

Understanding the wood you’re cutting is crucial for efficient processing and safety. Different wood species have varying densities, grain patterns, and moisture contents, all of which affect how the chainsaw performs.

Hardwood vs. Softwood:
- Hardwoods: Generally denser and harder than softwoods. They come from deciduous trees (trees that lose their leaves annually) like oak, maple, and ash. Hardwoods are typically used for furniture, flooring, and high-heat firewood.
- Softwoods: Generally less dense and easier to cut than hardwoods. They come from coniferous trees (trees that have needles and cones) like pine, fir, and spruce. Softwoods are often used for construction, paper production, and kindling.
- Grain Patterns: The direction and arrangement of wood fibers. Straight-grained wood is easier to split and cut than wood with knots or twisted grain.
- Moisture Content: The amount of water in the wood. Green wood (freshly cut) has a high moisture content, making it heavier and harder to cut. Seasoned wood (dried) has a lower moisture content, making it lighter and easier to cut.
- Wood Identification: Learning to identify different wood species is essential for determining their suitability for various purposes and for understanding their cutting characteristics.
- Personal Experience: I once tried to split a large oak log that was still green, and it was incredibly difficult. The wood was so dense and saturated with moisture that it was nearly impossible to split with a manual splitter. After letting the log season for a year, it split much more easily. This experience taught me the importance of understanding wood moisture content.

Logging Tool Selection and Maintenance Best Practices: Beyond the Chainsaw

While the Stihl 034 AV Super is the star of the show, other logging tools play a vital role in efficient and safe wood processing.

Axes and Splitting Mauls: Used for splitting logs into smaller pieces. Choose an axe or maul with a weight and handle length that is comfortable for you.
Wedges: Used to help split logs and prevent the chainsaw bar from getting pinched. Steel wedges are more durable than plastic wedges.
Cant Hooks and Log Lifters: Used to move and position logs. These tools can save your back and make the job much easier.
Measuring Tools: Used to measure logs and firewood. A measuring tape, log scale, and firewood gauge are essential for ensuring consistent sizing.
Maintenance: Keep all logging tools clean and sharp. Sharpen axes and mauls regularly with a file. Lubricate moving parts on cant hooks and log lifters.
Comparison: Manual splitters are ideal for small-scale firewood preparation, while hydraulic splitters are more efficient for processing large volumes of wood. Consider the amount of wood you need to process and your budget when choosing a splitter.
Personal Experience: I used to rely solely on an axe for splitting firewood, but it was slow and tiring. After investing in a hydraulic splitter, I was able to process firewood much faster and with less effort. The hydraulic splitter was a game-changer for me.

Firewood Seasoning Techniques and Safety Considerations: From Log to Fire

Properly seasoned firewood burns hotter, cleaner, and more efficiently than green wood. It also reduces the risk of creosote buildup in your chimney, which can lead to chimney fires.

Seasoning Process:
- Splitting: Split the wood into smaller pieces to increase the surface area for drying.
- Stacking: Stack the wood in a single row, off the ground, and in a sunny, well-ventilated location.
- Covering: Cover the top of the woodpile to protect it from rain and snow.
- Timing: Allow the wood to season for at least six months, and preferably a year or more.
- Moisture Content: The ideal moisture content for firewood is below 20%. Use a moisture meter to check the moisture content of the wood before burning it.
- Wood Storage: Store seasoned firewood in a dry, protected location to prevent it from reabsorbing moisture.
- Safety Considerations:
- Fire Safety: Keep a fire extinguisher and a water hose nearby when burning firewood.
- Carbon Monoxide: Ensure your home is equipped with carbon monoxide detectors.
- Chimney Maintenance: Have your chimney inspected and cleaned regularly to prevent creosote buildup.
- Data Point: Burning seasoned firewood can increase heating efficiency by up to 25% compared to burning green wood.
- Personal Experience: I once burned a load of firewood that I thought was seasoned, but it turned out to be still quite green. The fire was smoky and difficult to start, and it produced very little heat. I learned my lesson and now always check the moisture content of my firewood before burning it.

Project Planning and Execution: A Step-by-Step Approach

Successful wood processing requires careful planning and execution. Whether you’re felling a single tree or preparing a large volume of firewood, following a systematic approach can save you time, effort, and potential headaches.

Define Your Goals: Determine the purpose of the project. Are you felling trees for timber, clearing land, or preparing firewood?
Assess the Site: Evaluate the terrain, vegetation, and potential hazards. Identify any obstacles that may need to be removed.
Gather Your Tools and Equipment: Ensure you have all the necessary tools and equipment, including a chainsaw, axe, wedges, cant hook, PPE, and first-aid kit.
Develop a Plan: Create a detailed plan that outlines the steps involved in the project, from felling the trees to processing the wood.
Execute the Plan: Follow the plan carefully, prioritizing safety at all times.
Monitor Progress: Track your progress and make adjustments to the plan as needed.
Clean Up: Once the project is complete, clean up the site and store your tools and equipment properly.
Case Study: I recently helped a friend clear a small plot of land for a garden. We started by assessing the site and identifying several trees that needed to be removed. We then developed a plan that included felling the trees, bucking them into manageable lengths, and removing the stumps. We followed the plan carefully and completed the project safely and efficiently.
Personal Experience: I’ve learned that taking the time to plan a project thoroughly can save a significant amount of time and effort in the long run. A well-thought-out plan helps to identify potential problems and allows you to develop solutions in advance.

Conclusion: Embracing the Legacy of the Stihl 034 AV Super

The Stihl 034 AV Super is more than just a chainsaw; it’s a testament to enduring quality and timeless design. While newer models may offer more bells and whistles, the 034 AV Super remains a reliable and powerful tool for those who appreciate its simplicity and ruggedness. By mastering the techniques and tips outlined in this guide, you can unlock the full potential of this legendary chainsaw and enjoy years of dependable service. Remember, safety should always be your top priority. Wear appropriate PPE, plan your work carefully, and maintain your equipment properly. With the right knowledge and skills, you can tackle any woodcutting task with confidence and efficiency. Now, get out there and make some sawdust!

Stihl 034 AV Super Chainsaw Guide (5 Pro Woodcutting Tips)