Re: Stihl 038 Mag AV. When following the operators manual starting for a cold start, my saw can a be very ugly beast. Quite often it will misfire and the starting cord will recoil so violently that it will literally rip the handle out of your hand. Quite a painful experience. Thereafter the compression is so great that it is almost impossible to pull the cord. However, once saw starts it runs fantastic and idles just fine. It is just a hard starting beast. Is this par for the course? It is very unpredictable. I have had friends tell me that this is not normal. Any suggestions?

google --stihl carby for model 038 and a list will come up
look on the carby as it will be either stihl or yamma as stihl owns yamma carbys

If you will google it you will find a pdf of a part exsplosion

I don't have a copy but try to check with Stihl's website .

check the seals on the crankshaft for a leak and the ignition module for a loss of spark as it warms up.

If you need further help, I’m available over the phone at https://www.6ya.com/expert/kelly_69a0cf1b13789df1

Clean the air filter and check that the choke is operating correctly.

038 - 50mm
038w - 50mm
038s - 50mm
038sw -50mm
038fb -50mm
038m - 52mm
038mw - 52mm
038mrii - 52mm
038mr - 52mm
hope this clears up the issue

Afternoon Mac;
I am going to give you a qualified YES.
It is possible with Husqvarna and Echo.
All Stihl parts are proprietary and new OEM parts must be purchased through a local Stihl dealer. A phone call to your local store will answer your question and whether they have one in stock. If you do not want to utilize your local dealer eBay for a used part is your best option.

If you have more questions or need additional help please reply below and I will get back to you. HTH

Basics to check for 'No-Start' condition:
1) Spark plug - brown or dark brown - OK
a) is it carbon or fuel fouled
b) is there spark

2) Muffler remove for inspection
a) exhaust screen clean or plugged
b) inspect cylinder wall/piston as the flywheel is slowly rotated
3) Check cylinder compression

Fuel starvation - 'lean fuel' condition
Basic things to check:
1) spark plug
2) spark arrestor in muffler
3) fuel lines and tank filter
4) turn adjustment needles out (counterclockwise) 1/4 to 1/2 turn
Chain Saws:
5) check impulse tube and intake boot for cracks or leaks
*if all of the above are OK and/or do not improve performance then:
Remove Carburetor
6) replace gaskets/diaphragms
a) use a spray carb cleaner to clean jets, holes, and body of carb
b) fuel pump diaphragm goes against the carb body,
then the gasket towards the outside
c) metering gasket goes against the carb body,
and the diaphragm goes towards the outside

I’m happy to assist further over the phone at https://www.6ya.com/expert/rolandw_c013176d62ee17ae

Stihl Manuals
http://www.stihlusa.com/information/info_product2.html
For an IPL you must contact them.
HTH
Lou