024 AV Stihl Chainsaw Maintenance Tips (5 Pro Woodcutting Hacks)

Okay, let’s dive into the world of chainsaw maintenance and woodcutting hacks, specifically focusing on the Stihl 024 AV.

Introduction: Chainsaws, Pets, and the Call of the Woods

My old Labrador, Buster, used to have a peculiar habit. Whenever I’d pull out my Stihl 024 AV, he’d whine and then promptly disappear into the house. I always figured it was the noise, but maybe he sensed the serious business about to unfold. Chainsaws, for all their power and utility, demand respect and meticulous care. Neglecting them is like neglecting a member of the family – they’ll let you down at the worst possible moment. And when you’re miles deep in the woods, felling a tree that’s leaning the wrong way, that’s a situation you definitely want to avoid.

This guide isn’t just about keeping your Stihl 024 AV running; it’s about understanding its intricacies, maximizing its performance, and ensuring your safety and the longevity of your investment. Whether you’re a seasoned logger or a weekend warrior preparing firewood, these maintenance tips and woodcutting hacks will help you work smarter, not harder.

The user intent behind “024 AV Stihl Chainsaw Maintenance Tips (4 Pro Woodcutting Hacks)” is clear: individuals are seeking practical advice on maintaining their Stihl 024 AV chainsaw and improving their woodcutting techniques. This includes understanding routine maintenance procedures, troubleshooting common issues, and learning advanced cutting strategies.

Understanding the Stihl 024 AV: Key Components

Before diving into maintenance, let’s briefly review the key components of your Stihl 024 AV. This knowledge will make it easier to understand the “why” behind each maintenance task.

Engine: The heart of the chainsaw. A two-stroke engine requiring a specific fuel-oil mixture.
Carburetor: Mixes air and fuel to create the combustible mixture.
Ignition System: Provides the spark to ignite the mixture. Includes the spark plug and ignition module.
Fuel System: Consists of the fuel tank, fuel lines, and fuel filter.
Air Filter: Prevents dirt and debris from entering the engine.
Chain: The cutting element. Comes in various types (full chisel, semi-chisel) and pitches.
Bar: Supports and guides the chain.
Sprocket: Drives the chain around the bar.
Clutch: Connects and disconnects the engine from the chain.
Chain Brake: A safety mechanism that stops the chain quickly in case of kickback.

Step-by-Step Maintenance Guide

I’ve broken down the maintenance into daily, weekly, and monthly tasks. Consistency is key.

Daily Maintenance (Before Each Use)

These quick checks will prevent minor issues from escalating into major problems.

Fuel Level Check: Ensure you have enough fuel for the job. The Stihl 024 AV uses a 50:1 fuel-oil mixture. That’s 50 parts gasoline to 1 part two-stroke oil. I always use Stihl Ultra HP oil – it’s a bit pricier, but it keeps the engine cleaner and extends its life. Never use automotive oil. I learned this the hard way years ago when I ruined the piston on a different saw by using the wrong oil. The cost of the oil is far less than the cost of engine repairs.
- Action: Fill the fuel tank with the correct fuel mixture.
- Tool: Fuel can, measuring container, two-stroke oil.
- Insight: Mix fuel fresh. Old fuel can degrade and cause starting problems.
- Chain Oil Level Check: The chain needs constant lubrication to prevent overheating and premature wear.
- Action: Fill the chain oil reservoir with bar and chain oil. I prefer using a high-quality bar and chain oil.
- Tool: Bar and chain oil, funnel.
- Insight: Check the oil flow during operation. The chain should be throwing off a fine mist of oil. If not, investigate the oiler.
- Chain Tension Check: A properly tensioned chain is crucial for safe and efficient cutting.
- Action: With the chainsaw turned off, pull the chain away from the bar at the midpoint. There should be about 1/8 inch of slack.
- Tool: Screwdriver or wrench (depending on your chain tensioner).
- Insight: Adjust the tension after the first few cuts, as the chain will stretch slightly when it warms up.
- Chain Sharpness Check: A dull chain is dangerous and inefficient. It requires more force to cut, increasing the risk of kickback.
- Action: Visually inspect the cutting edges of the teeth. They should be sharp and uniform. If they appear rounded or damaged, it’s time to sharpen.
- Tool: None (visual inspection).
- Insight: Learn to recognize the signs of a dull chain. You’ll feel it in the way the saw cuts.
- Throttle Trigger and Interlock Check: Ensure the throttle trigger and interlock are functioning correctly. The interlock prevents accidental throttle engagement.
- Action: Squeeze the interlock and then the throttle trigger. The engine should rev up smoothly. Release the throttle, and the engine should return to idle.
- Tool: None (operational check).
- Insight: A sticky throttle can be a sign of a dirty carburetor or a damaged throttle cable.
- Chain Brake Check: Engage and disengage the chain brake to ensure it’s working properly.
- Action: Push the chain brake lever forward to engage it. The chain should stop immediately. Pull the lever back to disengage it.
- Tool: None (operational check).
- Insight: A faulty chain brake is a serious safety hazard. Get it repaired immediately if it’s not working.

Weekly Maintenance

These tasks require a bit more time but are essential for maintaining the long-term health of your chainsaw.

Air Filter Cleaning: A clean air filter ensures proper airflow to the engine.
- Action: Remove the air filter cover. Carefully remove the air filter. Clean it with compressed air or warm, soapy water. Allow it to dry completely before reinstalling.
- Tool: Screwdriver, compressed air or warm, soapy water, soft brush.
- Insight: If the air filter is heavily soiled or damaged, replace it. I keep a spare on hand.
- Bar Cleaning and Inspection: Remove any debris from the bar groove and oil holes.
- Action: Remove the chain and bar. Use a scraper or screwdriver to clean the bar groove. Clean the oil holes with a small wire or pick. Inspect the bar for wear or damage.
- Tool: Screwdriver, scraper, small wire or pick, rag.
- Insight: File down any burrs or imperfections on the bar rails. Replace the bar if it’s excessively worn or damaged.
- Chain Sharpening: A sharp chain is essential for safe and efficient cutting.
- Action: Sharpen the chain using a file and guide or a chain grinder. Maintain the correct angles and depth gauge settings.
- Tool: Chainsaw file, file guide, depth gauge tool, or chain grinder.
- Insight: Learn to sharpen your chain properly. It’s a valuable skill that will save you time and money. I prefer using a file and guide for quick touch-ups in the field, and a chain grinder for more thorough sharpening in the shop.
- Spark Plug Inspection: Inspect the spark plug for fouling or damage.
- Action: Remove the spark plug. Inspect the electrode for wear, carbon buildup, or damage. Clean the electrode with a wire brush or spark plug cleaner. Check the spark plug gap and adjust if necessary.
- Tool: Spark plug wrench, wire brush, spark plug cleaner, feeler gauge.
- Insight: Replace the spark plug if it’s heavily fouled or damaged. A faulty spark plug can cause starting problems and poor engine performance.
- Cooling Fins Cleaning: Clean the cooling fins on the engine cylinder to prevent overheating.
- Action: Remove any debris from the cooling fins using a brush or compressed air.
- Tool: Brush, compressed air.
- Insight: Overheating can damage the engine. Keep the cooling fins clean.
- Chain Catcher Inspection: Inspect the chain catcher (a small piece of metal below the bar) for damage. This vital safety device prevents the chain from flying back towards the operator if it breaks or comes off the bar.
- Action: Check for any cracks, bends, or missing pieces. Replace if damaged.
- Tool: Visual inspection.
- Insight: A damaged chain catcher compromises your safety. Don’t operate the saw until it’s replaced.

Monthly Maintenance

These tasks are more involved and should be performed less frequently.

Carburetor Adjustment: Adjust the carburetor if the engine is running poorly.
- Action: Locate the carburetor adjustment screws (usually labeled L, H, and T). Adjust the screws according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
- Tool: Screwdriver, tachometer (optional).
- Insight: Carburetor adjustment is best left to experienced users or professionals. Incorrect adjustments can damage the engine.
- Fuel Filter Replacement: Replace the fuel filter to ensure a clean fuel supply.
- Action: Locate the fuel filter inside the fuel tank. Remove the old filter and install a new one.
- Tool: Hooked wire (to retrieve the filter), new fuel filter.
- Insight: A clogged fuel filter can cause starting problems and poor engine performance.
- Gearbox Lubrication (if applicable): Some Stihl 024 AV models have a gearbox that needs to be lubricated. Consult your owner’s manual for specific instructions.
- Overall Inspection: Thoroughly inspect the chainsaw for any loose bolts, damaged parts, or other potential problems.
- Action: Tighten any loose bolts. Replace any damaged parts.
- Tool: Screwdrivers, wrenches, other tools as needed.
- Insight: A proactive approach to maintenance can prevent costly repairs down the road.

Troubleshooting Common Stihl 024 AV Issues

Even with regular maintenance, problems can still arise. Here are some common issues and their potential solutions.

Chainsaw Won’t Start:
- Possible Causes: No fuel, stale fuel, clogged fuel filter, faulty spark plug, flooded engine, faulty ignition module.
- Troubleshooting Steps:
  - Check the fuel level and fuel mixture.
  - Replace the fuel filter.
  - Clean or replace the spark plug.
  - Try starting the chainsaw with the choke on and then off.
  - Check the spark by removing the spark plug, grounding it against the engine, and pulling the starter cord.
  - If there’s no spark, the ignition module may be faulty.
Chainsaw Starts But Stalls:
- Possible Causes: Clogged air filter, dirty carburetor, incorrect carburetor adjustment.
- Troubleshooting Steps:
  - Clean the air filter.
  - Clean the carburetor.
  - Adjust the carburetor according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
Chainsaw Cuts Poorly:
- Possible Causes: Dull chain, incorrect chain tension, worn bar, insufficient chain oil.
- Troubleshooting Steps:
  - Sharpen the chain.
  - Adjust the chain tension.
  - Inspect the bar for wear or damage.
  - Check the chain oil level and oiler function.
Chainsaw Overheats:
- Possible Causes: Clogged cooling fins, incorrect fuel mixture, excessive chain tension.
- Troubleshooting Steps:
  - Clean the cooling fins.
  - Ensure the fuel mixture is correct.
  - Adjust the chain tension.

4 Pro Woodcutting Hacks for Stihl 024 AV Users

Now that we’ve covered maintenance, let’s move on to some woodcutting hacks that will improve your efficiency and safety.

Hack #1: The Bore Cut (For Felling and Limb Removal)

The bore cut is an advanced technique that involves plunging the tip of the bar into the wood to create a hinge. This is particularly useful for felling trees with a lean or removing large limbs.

How it Works:
1. Make a conventional face cut (a notch) on the side of the tree in the direction you want it to fall.
2. Carefully plunge the tip of the bar into the tree behind the notch, creating a bore.
3. Leave a hinge of wood on one side of the bore cut. This hinge will control the direction of the fall.
4. Make a back cut to complete the felling, leaving the hinge intact until the last moment.
Benefits:
- Provides more control over the direction of the fall.
- Reduces the risk of the tree kicking back.
- Useful for felling trees with a lean.
- Effective for removing large limbs without damaging the tree.
Safety Considerations:
- Be extremely careful when plunging the bar into the wood. Kickback is a significant risk.
- Ensure you have a clear escape route.
- Never perform a bore cut above shoulder height.
- Maintain a firm grip on the chainsaw.
Example: I once used a bore cut to fell a large oak tree that was leaning heavily towards a power line. The bore cut allowed me to control the fall precisely and avoid damaging the line.

Hack #2: The Hinge Cut (For Controlled Felling)

The hinge cut is a variation of the bore cut that involves creating a specific type of hinge to control the fall of the tree.

How it Works:
1. Make a conventional face cut.
2. Bore into the tree, leaving a wider hinge than with a standard bore cut.
3. The width and thickness of the hinge will determine the speed and direction of the fall.
4. Complete the back cut, leaving the hinge intact until the last moment.
Benefits:
- Provides even greater control over the direction of the fall.
- Allows you to “steer” the tree to some extent.
- Useful for felling trees in tight spaces.
Safety Considerations:
- Same as for the bore cut.
- Understand the principles of hinge wood and how it affects the fall of the tree.
Example: I used a hinge cut to fell a tree that was located close to a building. By carefully controlling the hinge, I was able to drop the tree precisely where I wanted it, avoiding any damage to the structure.

Hack #3: The Quick Bucking Technique (For Efficient Firewood Preparation)

Bucking is the process of cutting a felled tree into smaller, more manageable lengths. This hack focuses on maximizing efficiency when bucking firewood.

How it Works:
1. Use a log jack or other support to raise the log off the ground. This will prevent the chain from hitting the ground and dulling quickly.
2. Measure and mark the desired length of the firewood rounds (typically 16 inches).
3. Make a series of parallel cuts along the log, stopping just short of cutting all the way through.
4. Roll the log over and complete the cuts from the other side.
Benefits:
- Saves time and effort.
- Reduces strain on your back.
- Protects the chain from damage.
Safety Considerations:
- Always wear appropriate safety gear, including eye protection and hearing protection.
- Use a log jack or other support to stabilize the log.
- Be aware of the potential for the log to roll or shift.
Example: Using this technique, I can typically buck a large log into firewood rounds in about half the time it would take using traditional methods.

Hack #4: Using Wedges (For Preventing Pinching and Controlling Falls)

Wedges are invaluable tools for preventing the chainsaw bar from getting pinched during felling or bucking. They can also be used to help direct the fall of a tree.

How it Works:
1. During felling, insert wedges into the back cut to prevent the tree from pinching the bar as it leans.
2. Tap the wedges in further to help direct the fall of the tree.
3. During bucking, use wedges to support the log and prevent it from pinching the bar.
Benefits:
- Prevents the chainsaw bar from getting pinched.
- Makes felling and bucking safer and easier.
- Helps control the direction of the fall.
Safety Considerations:
- Use wedges made of plastic or aluminum, not steel. Steel wedges can damage the chain if you accidentally hit them with the saw.
- Wear eye protection.
- Be careful not to over-drive the wedges.
Example: I always carry a couple of wedges with me when felling trees. They’ve saved me from countless pinched bars and made the job much safer and easier. I once had a large pine tree starting to lean back on my saw during a felling cut. A few quick taps on a wedge I had placed in the back cut corrected the lean and allowed me to safely finish the cut.

Additional Tips and Considerations

Wood Types: Different types of wood have different properties that affect how they cut and split. Hardwoods like oak and maple are denser and more difficult to cut than softwoods like pine and fir. Green wood (freshly cut) is generally easier to split than seasoned wood (dried). Seasoned wood burns cleaner and produces more heat. Aim for a moisture content of 20% or less for optimal burning. I use a moisture meter to check the moisture content of my firewood before stacking it.
Tool Selection: Choosing the right tools for the job is essential. A good axe or maul is indispensable for splitting firewood. A hydraulic log splitter can significantly increase your efficiency if you’re processing large quantities of wood. When choosing a log splitter, consider the tonnage (splitting force) and the cycle time (the time it takes to complete a splitting cycle). I use a 25-ton hydraulic splitter for most of my firewood processing.
Firewood Stacking: Proper firewood stacking is crucial for drying and preventing rot. Stack the wood in a single row, with the bark side up. This will allow the wood to dry more quickly. Leave space between the rows for air circulation. I prefer to stack my firewood on pallets to keep it off the ground.
Safety Gear: Always wear appropriate safety gear when operating a chainsaw or processing firewood. This includes:
- Eye protection (safety glasses or face shield)
- Hearing protection (earplugs or earmuffs)
- Gloves
- Long pants
- Steel-toed boots
- Chainsaw chaps (leg protection)
- Helmet (optional, but recommended)
Chain Selection: Choosing the right chain for your Stihl 024 AV depends on the type of wood you’re cutting and your cutting style. Full chisel chains are faster and more aggressive but require more frequent sharpening. Semi-chisel chains are more durable and forgiving but cut slower. I typically use a semi-chisel chain for general-purpose cutting.
Bar Length: The appropriate bar length for your Stihl 024 AV depends on the size of the trees you’re felling. A longer bar allows you to fell larger trees, but it also makes the chainsaw more difficult to control. I recommend using a 16-inch or 18-inch bar for most applications.
Fuel Storage: Store fuel in a clean, approved container. Keep the container away from heat and open flames. Properly label the container with the contents and the date of mixing. I use a metal fuel can with a self-venting nozzle to prevent spills and leaks.
Chain Oil Selection: Use a high-quality bar and chain oil specifically designed for chainsaws. Avoid using motor oil or other substitutes, as they may not provide adequate lubrication and can damage the chain and bar. I prefer using a biodegradable bar and chain oil to minimize environmental impact.
Chain Sharpening Frequency: The frequency with which you need to sharpen your chain depends on the type of wood you’re cutting and how often you use the chainsaw. As a general rule, sharpen the chain whenever it starts to feel dull or when it’s no longer cutting efficiently. I typically sharpen my chain after every few hours of use.
Chain Tension Adjustment: The chain tension should be adjusted whenever the chain feels too loose or too tight. A loose chain can derail and cause injury. A tight chain can overheat and damage the bar and chain. The correct chain tension is when you can pull the chain away from the bar about 1/8 inch at the midpoint.
Climate Considerations: If you live in a very dry climate, be extra vigilant about keeping your saw clean and well-lubricated. Dust and debris can quickly clog the air filter and oiler. In humid climates, make sure to store your saw in a dry place to prevent rust and corrosion.

Case Study: Reviving a Neglected Stihl 024 AV

I once came across a Stihl 024 AV at a garage sale for next to nothing. It was in rough shape – covered in grime, with a dull chain and a fuel tank full of old, gummy gas. Most people would have written it off, but I saw potential.

Here’s what I did to bring it back to life:

Complete Disassembly and Cleaning: I completely disassembled the chainsaw, carefully cleaning each part with degreaser and compressed air. I paid particular attention to the carburetor, which was heavily gummed up.
Fuel System Overhaul: I replaced the fuel filter, fuel lines, and spark plug. I also cleaned the fuel tank thoroughly.
Carburetor Rebuild: I rebuilt the carburetor with a new kit, replacing all the gaskets and diaphragms.
Chain Sharpening and Bar Dressing: I sharpened the chain using a chain grinder and dressed the bar rails to remove any burrs or imperfections.
Reassembly and Testing: I reassembled the chainsaw and filled it with fresh fuel and chain oil. To my surprise, it started on the second pull!

The revived Stihl 024 AV ran like a champ. I used it for several years for various tasks, from felling small trees to bucking firewood. This experience taught me the importance of proper maintenance and the resilience of these classic machines.

Conclusion: Mastering Your Stihl 024 AV

Remember, chainsaw safety is paramount. Always wear appropriate safety gear and follow safe operating procedures. If you’re unsure about any aspect of chainsaw maintenance or woodcutting, consult a qualified professional.

Now, go out there, tackle those woodcutting projects, and enjoy the satisfaction of working with a well-maintained and expertly handled Stihl 024 AV! Buster might still hide when he hears it start, but he knows I’m getting the job done safely and efficiently.

024 AV Stihl Chainsaw Maintenance Tips (5 Pro Woodcutting Hacks)