Stihl 034 Starting Throttle Lock

[drew777]

I just picked up a well used Stihl 034 AV super. I feel like a moron here, but I can’t figure out how to engage the starting throttle lock. Is there a starting throttle lock on this saw? The master control switch only seems to have three positions; choke, run and stop. The labels for the switch are worn off the case.

I can get the thing running, but it's tricky without some kind throttle lock, that is besides my boot wedged into the handle.

 

[Dadatwins]

Three positions is all thats on the 034/036 Top/up is off, middle is run, all the way down is choke. few pulls on choke should get it to pop, move the lever up to the middle and should start. Pull off carb cover and filter to make sure choke lever is engaging choke and holding if you are have starting trouble. Sometimes the metal spring that holds the lever gets out of alignment and does not hold the choke closed while trying to start. Or it might need carb adjustment, new plug, or ??? Welcome to site and good luck.

 

[WRW]

Try engaging the throttle before moving the switch to the choke position. That should lock the throttle.

 

[drew777]

Thanks for the info. The air filter, plug and even the cylinder are new. Carb was just adjusted by the dealer. Saw runs great overall. Once it pops with the choke on, it can take 10 pulls to make it run without the choke. However, if I release the throttle interlock and partially hold the throttle on with my boot it starts in one pull. I guess I’ll just continue doing this.

Just dropped a half dozen trees and cut about a cord of wood without even a sputter. I, on the other hand, can hardly lift my arms right now.

 

[drew777]

Originally posted by WRW
Try engaging the throttle before moving the switch to the choke position. That should lock the throttle.

I tried this. The throttle just pops back out. As far as I can tell no combination of moving the switch or pressing the throttle locks the throttle.

 

[glens]

You're not supposed to even be <i>able</i> to put the control lever down to the choke position without the throttle trigger being squeezed and held.&nbsp; When you merely move the lever back up to the middle position afterward, the throttle should remain at half position until the trigger is squeezed again.&nbsp; If it doesn't work that way, you should get the couple of new plastic parts needed.&nbsp; They should be the same as on the 036.&nbsp; It rather sounds as if it's been forced and broken.

Glen

 

[drew777]

Originally posted by glens
It rather sounds as if it's been forced and broken.

Glen

Mystery solved. I took the handle apart, and in fact the red plastic piece that acts as a hinge for the master switch has (had) a tab that contacts the throttle when the choke is on. It’s broken, and looks like it has been that way for some time. Anyone have any leads on where I can order this part?

 

[glens]

Any dealer who has one in the junk pile...

I know Dave Neiger had an old trashed 036 on the shelf a few weeks ago.&nbsp; Try him at http://www.arboristsite.com/member.php?action=mailform&userid=3787

Here's the pertinent (if it is) page from the 036 parts list.

Glen

 

[drew777]

Thanks for all the info. I found all the handle parts on Ebay for $7.00.

 

[stihltech]

master control

When you get it reassembled, you will find 4 positions. Choke, fast idle. idle and off. Remember that the trigger must be up to get to fast idle or choke.

One of my favorite saws. Enjoy.

 

[drew777]

Loose metal rattle sound

I got the handle parts and now have the correct 4 positions on the master switch. It’s much easier to start without having to jam my foot up against the throttle trigger.

I have one more question. At idle, with the chain brake released, there is a metal rattling sound, as if something is loose and vibrating. The sound disappears as soon as I throttle up and the chain begins to move, or if I put the chain brake on. Chain tension and idle speed are correct. Sound is still there with the bar and chain detached. The dealer had it and never said anything about it, so I assumed that it was normal. Is this noise normal? I haven’t noticed this sound coming from other chainsaws at idle.

 

[glens]

Clutch drum / bearing wear.&nbsp; To confirm, put a dab of grease on the bearing.&nbsp; Not a big issue until/unless it wears the shaft too much; the bearing and drum are commodity items.

Glen