Alpina APR 25 C Gasoline Chainsaw User Manual (10-inch Bar)

Introduction

This manual provides essential information for the safe and efficient operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting of your Alpina APR 25 C Gasoline Chainsaw. This precise, lightweight, and compact chainsaw features a 25 cm (10-inch) cutting bar, making it ideal for pruning branches on trees and shrubs, and for domestic wood cutting tasks such as preparing logs for stoves and fireplaces. It is equipped with a 25.4 cc gasoline engine, 900 W power, and an 18 m/s chain speed. The design prioritizes user safety and ease of use, incorporating good maneuverability, a soft rear handle for comfortable grip, a special carving bar for precise cuts, an anti-vibration system, and a manual and inertia chain brake.

Image 1: Front-side view of the Alpina APR 25 C Gasoline Chainsaw, showing the bar, chain, and main housing.

Safety Instructions

Always prioritize safety when operating the chainsaw. Failure to follow these instructions can result in serious injury or death.

• Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): Always wear appropriate PPE, including a safety helmet, eye protection, hearing protection, heavy-duty gloves, safety trousers, and safety boots.
• Work Area: Ensure the work area is clear of bystanders, children, and pets. Maintain a safe distance from other people and objects.
• Inspection: Before each use, inspect the chainsaw for any damage, loose parts, or leaks. Ensure the chain is sharp and correctly tensioned, and the chain brake is functional.
• Fuel Handling: Mix and handle fuel in a well-ventilated area, away from open flames or sparks. Do not smoke while refueling.
• Starting: Start the chainsaw on a firm, flat surface. Ensure the chain brake is engaged before starting.
• Operation: Maintain a firm grip with both hands. Be aware of kickback potential. Do not operate the chainsaw above shoulder height. Avoid cutting near power lines.
• Stopping: Always engage the chain brake and turn off the engine before setting the chainsaw down or performing any adjustments or maintenance.
• Storage: Store the chainsaw in a dry, secure place, out of reach of children.

Package Contents

Verify that all items are present in the package:

• 1 x Alpina APR 25 C Gasoline Chainsaw (10-inch)
• 1 x 25 cm (10-inch) Cutting Bar
• 1 x Saw Chain (1/4'' .050'')
• 1 x Screwdriver
• 1 x Chain Sharpener
• 1 x Spark Plug Wrench
• User Manual (this document)

Setup

1. Bar and Chain Assembly

1. Ensure the engine is off and the chain brake is disengaged.
2. Remove the chain cover nuts and the chain cover.
3. Place the chain around the sprocket and guide bar. Ensure the cutting edges of the chain are facing the correct direction (refer to the arrow on the guide bar).
4. Mount the guide bar onto the studs, ensuring the chain tensioning pin engages with the hole in the guide bar.
5. Replace the chain cover and hand-tighten the nuts. Do not fully tighten yet.

Image 2: Side view of the Alpina APR 25 C Gasoline Chainsaw, showing the chain cover and tensioning mechanism area.

2. Fuel Mixing and Filling

The chainsaw uses a 2-stroke gasoline engine. It requires a mixture of unleaded gasoline and 2-stroke engine oil at a ratio of 2.5% oil to gasoline (e.g., 25 ml oil per 1 liter of gasoline).

• Use fresh, high-quality unleaded gasoline.
• Use high-quality 2-stroke engine oil specifically designed for air-cooled engines.
• Mix the fuel in a separate, approved fuel container. Shake well before filling.
• Open the fuel tank cap, fill with the prepared fuel mixture, and securely close the cap. Avoid overfilling.

3. Chain Oil Filling

The chainsaw features an automatic and adjustable oil pump. Always ensure the chain oil tank is filled before operation.

• Use high-quality chain lubricant oil.
• Locate the chain oil tank cap (capacity 0.14 L).
• Fill the tank with chain oil and securely close the cap.
• The oil pump is adjustable via a special screw for efficient cutting. Adjust as needed for optimal lubrication.

4. Chain Tensioning

Correct chain tension is crucial for safe and efficient operation. The chainsaw features convenient lateral chain tensioning.

1. Loosen the chain cover nuts slightly.
2. Use the lateral tensioning screw to adjust the chain tension. The chain should be snug against the guide bar but still able to be pulled freely by hand. There should be no sag on the underside of the bar.
3. Once tensioned correctly, fully tighten the chain cover nuts.
4. Check tension again after a few cuts, as new chains can stretch.

Operating

1. Starting the Engine

Cold Start:

1. Place the chainsaw on a firm, flat surface. Ensure the chain brake is engaged.
2. Press the primer bulb several times until fuel is visible.
3. Pull the choke lever to the "FULL CHOKE" position.
4. Pull the starter cord firmly and steadily until the engine fires briefly (usually 1-3 pulls).
5. Push the choke lever to the "HALF CHOKE" position.
6. Pull the starter cord again until the engine starts.
7. Once the engine runs, push the choke lever to the "RUN" position.
8. Allow the engine to warm up for a few moments before disengaging the chain brake and beginning work.

Warm Start:

1. Place the chainsaw on a firm, flat surface. Ensure the chain brake is engaged.
2. Pull the choke lever to the "HALF CHOKE" position.
3. Pull the starter cord firmly and steadily until the engine starts.
4. Once the engine runs, push the choke lever to the "RUN" position.

2. Basic Cutting Techniques

Always maintain a stable stance and firm grip with both hands. Plan your cuts to avoid kickback and ensure the wood is stable.

• Pruning: For branches, support the branch if possible. Make an undercut first to prevent bark stripping, then cut from the top.
• Felling Small Trees: For very small trees, plan the felling direction. Make a directional notch on the side of the intended fall, then make the felling cut from the opposite side, slightly above the notch.
• Bucking (Cutting Logs): If the log is supported at both ends, cut from the top down. If supported at one end, cut from the top for about 1/3 of the diameter, then finish from the bottom up to prevent pinching.
• The special carving bar allows for more precise cuts, useful for detailed pruning or shaping.

3. Stopping the Engine

To stop the engine, engage the chain brake and then press the stop switch to the "OFF" position.

Maintenance

Regular maintenance ensures optimal performance and extends the lifespan of your chainsaw.

• Chain Sharpening: A sharp chain is essential for safe and efficient cutting. Use the included chain sharpener or a suitable file. Sharpen regularly according to the chain manufacturer's specifications (1/4'' .050'' chain).
• Guide Bar Maintenance: Clean the guide bar groove regularly to remove sawdust and debris. Flip the guide bar periodically to ensure even wear. Check for burrs on the edges and file them smooth.
• Air Filter Cleaning: The air filter should be cleaned frequently, especially when working in dusty conditions. Remove the air filter cover, take out the filter, and clean it with compressed air or wash it with warm soapy water (if foam type) and let it dry completely.
• Spark Plug Inspection: Inspect the spark plug periodically. Clean any carbon deposits and check the electrode gap. Replace if worn or fouled. Use the included spark plug wrench.
• General Cleaning: After each use, clean the chainsaw thoroughly, removing sawdust, resin, and oil residue from the engine housing, cooling fins, and chain brake mechanism. Compressed air can be very effective.
• Oil Pump Regulation: The automatic oil pump is adjustable. If you notice insufficient or excessive oiling, adjust the screw to optimize lubrication for the cutting conditions.
• Anti-Vibration System: Periodically check the anti-vibration mounts for wear or damage. Replace if necessary to maintain user comfort and reduce fatigue.

Troubleshooting

Before attempting any repairs, ensure the engine is off and the spark plug cap is disconnected to prevent accidental starting.

Specifications

Warranty

This Alpina APR 25 C Gasoline Chainsaw comes with a 2-year warranty. Please retain your proof of purchase for warranty claims. The availability of spare parts in the EU is guaranteed for 5 years.

For specific warranty terms and conditions, please refer to the documentation provided with your purchase or contact Alpina customer service.

Support

Should you encounter any issues not covered in the troubleshooting section or require further assistance, please contact Alpina customer support or an authorized service center.

For service and spare parts, refer to the contact information provided in your product packaging or visit the official Alpina website.