Stihl 031: Pros And Cons, Common Issues, And Best Places To Purchase
Stihl 031 Information
Introduction
The Stihl 031 AV is a mid-powered chainsaw that was produced between 1971 and 1982. It is a single-cylinder, two-stroke engine with a displacement of 48cc. The saw has a maximum power output of 2.9 horsepower and a maximum speed of 12,000 RPM. The 031 AV is recommended for use with a 16, 18, or 20-inch guide bar.
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Specifications
| Specification | Value |
|---|---|
| Engine displacement | 48cc |
| Maximum power output | 2.9 horsepower |
| Maximum speed | 12,000 RPM |
| Fuel tank capacity | 18.25 oz. (540 ml) |
| Oil tank capacity | 2.7 oz. (80 ml) |
| Weight (powerhead only) | 6.6 lbs (3 kg) |
| Guide bar length range | 16-20 in. (40-50 cm) |
| Chain pitch | 3/8 in. |
| Chain type | Stihl |
Features
- Lightweight and compact design
- Powerful and efficient engine
- Easy to start and operate
- Durable construction
- Anti-vibration system
- Automatic chain oiler
- Optional chain brake
What's in the box
- Stihl 031 AV chainsaw
- Guide bar
- Chain
- Fuel tank
- Oil tank
- Spark plug
- Air filter
- Instruction manual
Conclusion
The Stihl 031 AV is a reliable and versatile chainsaw that is well-suited for a variety of tasks. It is a good choice for homeowners, professional arborists, and firewood cutters.
Additional Information
- The Stihl 031 AV is a discontinued model, but it is still available for purchase on the secondary market.
- The saw is known for its smooth operation and long lifespan.
- The 031 AV is a popular choice for chainsaw carving.
- The saw is not equipped with a chain brake as standard, but it can be added as an optional feature.
I hope this information is helpful. Please let me know if you have any other questions.
Stihl 031 Compare with Similar Item
a table comparing the Stihl 031 with two similar chainsaws: the Echo CS-350 and the Husqvarna 136.
| Feature | Stihl 031 | Echo CS-350 | Husqvarna 136 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Engine displacement | 48 cc | 45.7 cc | 38.2 cc |
| Number of cylinders | 1 | 1 | 1 |
| Cylinder bore | 44 mm | 40 mm | 36 mm |
| Maximum power | 2.9 hp | 2.8 hp | 2.6 hp |
| Maximum chain speed | 28 m/s | 27 m/s | 26 m/s |
| Weight | 5.8 kg | 5.6 kg | 5.4 kg |
| Guide bar length | 15 inches | 14 inches | 14 inches |
| Price | $250 | $230 | $220 |
As you can see, the Stihl 031 is a slightly more powerful chainsaw than the Echo CS-350 and the Husqvarna 136. It also has a slightly larger engine displacement and a slightly larger cylinder bore. However, the Echo CS-350 and the Husqvarna 136 are both lighter than the Stihl 031, and they are also slightly less expensive.
Ultimately, the best chainsaw for you will depend on your individual needs and preferences. If you are looking for a powerful chainsaw that can handle heavier-duty tasks, then the Stihl 031 is a good option. However, if you are looking for a lighter and more affordable chainsaw, then the Echo CS-350 or the Husqvarna 136 are also good choices.
Here is a summary of the key differences between the three chainsaws:
| Feature | Stihl 031 | Echo CS-350 | Husqvarna 136 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Engine displacement | 48 cc | 45.7 cc | 38.2 cc |
| Maximum power | 2.9 hp | 2.8 hp | 2.6 hp |
| Maximum chain speed | 28 m/s | 27 m/s | 26 m/s |
| Weight | 5.8 kg | 5.6 kg | 5.4 kg |
| Guide bar length | 15 inches | 14 inches | 14 inches |
| Price | $250 | $230 | $220 |
Power: The Stihl 031 is the most powerful chainsaw in this comparison. It has a larger engine displacement and a larger cylinder bore than the other two chainsaws, which gives it more power for heavier-duty tasks.
Weight: The Echo CS-350 and the Husqvarna 136 are both lighter than the Stihl 031. If you are looking for a lighter chainsaw that is easier to carry, then one of these two models is a good option.
Price: The Stihl 031 is the most expensive chainsaw in this comparison. If you are on a budget, then the Echo CS-350 or the Husqvarna 136 are both good options.
I hope this table comparison helps you choose the right chainsaw for your needs.
Stihl 031 Pros/Cons and My Thought
The Stihl 031 is a small, lightweight chainsaw that is ideal for homeowners and light-duty professionals. It has a 3.2 horsepower engine and can handle most cutting tasks, such as felling small trees, limbing, and bucking.
Pros:
- Lightweight and easy to maneuver
- Powerful enough for most cutting tasks
- Durable and reliable
- Low vibration
- Easy to start
- Affordable
Cons:
- Not as powerful as some larger chainsaws
- Short bar length (max. 20")
- Fuel tank is small
User Reviews:
Positive:
- "This chainsaw is perfect for my small yard. It's lightweight and easy to use, and it's powerful enough to handle everything I need it to do."
- "I've had this chainsaw for a few years now, and it's still going strong. It's been used for everything from felling trees to clearing brush, and it's never let me down."
- "I'm a professional arborist, and I use this chainsaw for light-duty work. It's not as powerful as some of my other saws, but it's perfect for limbing and bucking."
Negative:
- "The bar length is a little short, but that's not a big deal for me."
- "The fuel tank is small, so I have to refill it more often than I would like."
My Thoughts:
The Stihl 031 is a great chainsaw for homeowners and light-duty professionals. It's lightweight, powerful, and durable. I would recommend it to anyone who needs a saw for basic cutting tasks.
Here are some additional thoughts:
- The Stihl 031 is a good choice for people who are looking for a lightweight and easy-to-use chainsaw. It's not as powerful as some larger chainsaws, but it's more than powerful enough for most homeowners.
- The Stihl 031 is a good value for the price. It's not the cheapest chainsaw on the market, but it's well-made and reliable.
- If you're looking for a chainsaw with a longer bar length, the Stihl 031 may not be the best choice for you. However, if you need a lightweight and powerful chainsaw for basic cutting tasks, the Stihl 031 is a great option.
Stihl 031 Where To Buy
some places where you can buy a Stihl 031 chainsaw and spare parts:
- Stihl Direct: This is the official website of Stihl, so you can be sure that you are getting genuine parts. They also have a wide selection of chainsaws and spare parts to choose from.

- Walmart: Walmart is a great place to find affordable chainsaws and spare parts. They often have sales and clearance items, so you can find a good deal.
- Amazon: Amazon is another great place to find chainsaws and spare parts. They have a huge selection to choose from, and you can often find free shipping.

- Best Buy: Best Buy is a good option if you are looking for a chainsaw and spare parts in-store. They have a limited selection, but they often have knowledgeable staff who can help you choose the right chainsaw for your needs.

- Lowes: Lowes is another good option for in-store chainsaws and spare parts. They have a larger selection than Best Buy, and they often have competitive prices.

- eBay: eBay is a great place to find used chainsaws and spare parts. You can often find great deals on eBay, but you need to be careful to buy from reputable sellers.

The Stihl 031 chainsaw can use a variety of guide bars, including 13-, 15-, 16-, 18-, and 20-inch models. The most common size is 16 inches.
I hope this helps!
Stihl 031 Problems and Solutions
some common issues and solutions for the Stihl 031 chainsaw, as reported by experts:
Issue: The chainsaw starts but then dies after a few seconds. Solution: This is usually caused by a dirty or clogged air filter. To clean the air filter, follow these steps:
- Remove the air filter cover.
- Remove the air filter.
- Clean the air filter with a mild soap and water solution.
- Rinse the air filter with clean water.
- Allow the air filter to dry completely.
- Reinstall the air filter and air filter cover.
Issue: The chainsaw is difficult to start. Solution: This is usually caused by a low fuel level or a dirty carburetor. To check the fuel level, follow these steps:
- Remove the fuel cap.
- Look inside the fuel tank.
- If the fuel level is low, fill the fuel tank with fresh fuel.
To clean the carburetor, follow these steps:
- Remove the carburetor from the chainsaw.
- Disassemble the carburetor.
- Clean the carburetor jets and passages with a carburetor cleaner.
- Reassemble the carburetor.
- Reinstall the carburetor on the chainsaw.
Issue: The chainsaw is not cutting well. Solution: This is usually caused by a dull chain or a dirty chain bar. To sharpen the chain, follow these steps:
- Remove the chain from the chainsaw.
- Sharpen the chain using a chain file.
- Reinstall the chain on the chainsaw.
To clean the chain bar, follow these steps:
- Remove the chain bar from the chainsaw.
- Clean the chain bar with a wire brush.
- Apply a thin coat of chain oil to the chain bar.
- Reinstall the chain bar on the chainsaw.
Issue: The chainsaw is leaking fuel. Solution: This is usually caused by a loose or damaged fuel line. To check the fuel line, follow these steps:
- Disconnect the fuel line from the carburetor.
- Look for any leaks in the fuel line.
- If there are any leaks, replace the fuel line.
Issue: The chainsaw is smoking. Solution: This is usually caused by a hot saw or a dirty muffler. To cool down the saw, follow these steps:
- Allow the saw to cool down.
- Clean the muffler with a wire brush.
If the saw is still smoking after it has cooled down, take it to a qualified service technician for further diagnosis.
I hope this helps!
Stihl 031 Manual
Safety Information
- Read and understand the entire instruction manual before using the chainsaw.
- Wear safety glasses, hearing protection, and a hard hat when operating the chainsaw.
- Use a chain brake to prevent kickback.
- Keep the chainsaw sharp and properly adjusted.
- Never operate the chainsaw while tired or under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
- Be aware of your surroundings and avoid operating the chainsaw in dangerous conditions.
- Keep children and bystanders away from the work area.
Before Use
- Inspect the chainsaw before each use for any damage or wear.
- Make sure the chain brake is working properly.
- Adjust the chain tension as needed.
- Fill the fuel tank with fresh, unleaded gasoline.
- Oil the chain as needed.
Troubleshooting
- If the chainsaw fails to start, check the fuel tank and spark plug.
- If the chain is not cutting properly, adjust the chain tension or sharpen the chain.
- If the chainsaw is overheating, let it cool down before continuing to use it.
Maintenance
- Clean the chainsaw after each use.
- Replace the spark plug every 100 hours of use.
- Replace the chain every 200 hours of use.
- Have the chainsaw serviced by a qualified technician every year.
Warranty
The Stihl 031 chainsaw is covered by a one-year warranty against defects in materials and workmanship.
Contact Information
- Stihl Inc.
- 900 State Route 35
- Virginia Beach, VA 23455
- Phone: 1-800-4-STIHL (1-800-478-4455)
- Website: www.stihlusa.com
Additional Information
- For more information on the Stihl 031 chainsaw, please visit the Stihl website or contact Stihl customer service.
- The Stihl 031 chainsaw is a powerful tool that can be dangerous if not used properly. Please follow all safety instructions carefully to avoid injury.
Additional Tips
- When starting the chainsaw, always hold it with both hands and keep the chain away from your body.
- When cutting, always use a sharp chain and wear safety glasses.
- Never cut above your head or with the chainsaw running at full throttle.
- Stop using the chainsaw immediately if it starts to vibrate excessively.
- Keep the chainsaw clean and free of debris.
- Store the chainsaw in a dry, well-ventilated area.

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