Chainsaw Carburetor Adjustment: Complete Tuning Guide. STIHL chainsaw carb adjustment

STIHL chainsaw carburetor adjustment ms 211

First of all, the tool fully corresponds to its power category. Correctly adjusted motor is able to provide a full drive of the working headset with a sufficiently large reserve of torque.

Despite the small displacement of the power unit, the designers were able to reduce fuel consumption by 20% and implement the exhaust gas cleaning technology by 70%.

The model combines in its design:

• moderate cost with practical application;
• work comfort and productivity;
• full operation of the saw in difficult weather and climatic conditions with maintainability;
• the possibility of using standardized parts of the working set from other similar models.

The wide range of spare parts, the operational work of regional service departments is positively noted.

Disadvantages affecting the working and operational characteristics of the STIHL MC-211 saw have not been found since the start of production. Certain Комментарии и мнения владельцев on the adjustment of the fuel equipment, the interchangeability of the elements of the working set are mostly subjective.

The price point of the STIHL MS 211 C-BE version with a more durable carbide chain is a thousand rubles higher. The assortment of sales of used models consists of offers.

Features of practical application

The STIHL 211 saw is characterized by the highest performance for its power class, economy of maintenance, reliability of working units and component systems.

The range of its application extends to a wide range of works related to the preparation of firewood, cutting of construction and commercial timber, the formation of crowns of decorative and fruit trees.

The design of this tool is based on the concept of maximum comfort and safety of work of increased complexity.

• ergonomic product design;
• special handle configuration;
• excellent balancing;
• efficient operation of the emergency brake.

Solution of repair and restoration problems

There is no shortage of spare parts and consumables for STIHL brand chainsaws. High maintainability and easy access to the systems of the tool allows its owners to eliminate operational failures and malfunctions with their own hands. The key to the popularity of the products of this brand is the high quality of consumables and components.

Specifications

With a dead weight of 4.3 kg, the saw is characterized by small dimensions.

A significant volume of the body is occupied by a two-stroke internal combustion engine with a working volume of 35.2 cm3, which develops a power of 2.3 HP in operating modes.

• The fuel is a metered mixture of motor gasoline with STIHL branded oil in a ratio of 50: 1, which enters the carburetor from an internal 270 ml tank.
• The resource of the power unit is increased due to the manufacture of parts of the connecting rod-crank group from forged steel, thin-layer chrome plating of the cylinder mirror, precision assembly.

Structural differences

The model compares favorably with similar developments:

• perfect vibration protection system;
• a double-circuit air filter with a pre-cleaning system;
• reduced fuel consumption by 20%.

2-MIX technology has reduced the percentage of toxic compounds in exhaust gases by more than half.

The characteristics of the working set determine the suitability of the tool for felling and sawing trees with a diameter of more than 30 cm.The design of the saw, which was successful in all parameters, served as the basis for creating technically advanced versions.

Chainsaw STIHL MS 211. the branded model for the discerning user

In the market for imported chainsaw equipment, each new model of the STIHL brand becomes a real bestseller. The light, economical and comfortable chainsaw STIHL MS 211 was no exception. This model was created taking into account the operating experience of previous models and the best samples of the European range.

The tool formally belongs to the household category, however, during its development, new design solutions and know-how were used, which allowed the MS 211 model to come close to the top lines of consumer ratings.

Working headset

The powerful powertrain takes advantage of the 14 ” guide rail. The cutting chain is lubricated by automatic oil supply from the built-in 200 ml tank.

The headset is equipped with an emergency stop device for the saw and a catcher, which prevents injury to the operator if the chain breaks or leaves the guide groove. A stretched or damaged chain must be replaced.

The universal attachment of the work set allows the installation of smaller bars and chains. Such re-equipment is advisable when working in hard-to-reach places or when sawing hard and sticky wood.

Petroleum chain oils are preferred due to their stable performance. The properties of vegetable lubricants are less perfect, since during long-term storage the density of these compounds increases.

Analogs

Chainsaws of the household category, identical in performance and cost, are represented by products from well-known manufacturers. These are branded chainsaws. Echo CS-350TES-12 “, Hyundai X 380, Husqvarna 236, Hitachi CS33EA and their similar versions.

Chainsaw STIHL MS 211. characteristics, an overview of the advantages and disadvantages.

The STIHL MS 211 chainsaw is the next after the MS 180 in the household chain of chainsaws from the well-known German manufacturer. the STIHL company. She is not as popular among the people as the junior model, in my opinion, undeservedly. For work in the garden, when building your own home, this model is better suited than the 180th in view of the higher power, lower fuel consumption than the classic 180th (and not the C-BE). Of course, using this saw is as impractical as the MS180 for felling. Below I will give the technical characteristics of the STIHL (STIHL) MS 211 chainsaw and give a small review in comparison with the Calm 180.

Technical characteristics of the STIHL MS 211 chainsaw

Specifications MS 211
Power	1700 W / 2.3 HP from.
Chain pitch	3/8 inch
Maximum bus length	40 cm
Engine volume	35.2 cc cm
Noise level	110 dBA
Features and Capabilities	chain brake
Design	manual
The weight	4.3 kg (without bar and chain)
Fuel tank capacity	0.28 l
Oil tank capacity	0.18 l
Build country	USA

Let’s compare the STIHL MS 180 and MS 211 chainsaws on some points that, from my point of view, deserve attention.

Weight: The difference in weight between these two models is negligible. only 400 grams. That you will agree is not a great indicator for this type of instrument.

Fuel consumption: Since the 211st STIHL model has an engine with 2-MIX technology, fuel consumption compared to the classic MS180 model, that is, without the C-BE prefix, will be approximately the same, or even less. It is difficult to say more precisely, since ideal conditions are needed for comparison, such as the same sharpening of chains, the same material for sawing and other factors.

Air filter: The 211 has a more advanced pre-cleaned air filter, which means fewer filter cleanings, which means more stable saw operation.

Tire fastening: I have not personally encountered it myself, but according to credible data, fastening with two bolts, as on the Sthil 180, looks preferable due to the fact that one nut, if not tightened to the end, can unscrew.

Price: The price of STIHL 211 is, of course, higher compared to the 180. And spare parts in case of breakdown will cost more. Therefore, if you need to saw boards, small bars or branches, then it is better to take the 180th, if something is more serious, then you should take a closer look at STIHL MC 211.

Current setting

Experienced operators in the process of work may notice that the internal combustion engine of the chainsaw has begun to work worse. Sometimes it is enough to turn the screws H and L alternately in one direction or another by a small step of 1/5. 1/6 of a turn and immediately check the result of adjusting the carburetor in real work. This is one of the easy ways to get a good setup.

The video material contains information on how to tune the carburetor of a chainsaw and check the tuning result.

STIHL chainsaw carburetor setting ms 660

STIHL does not use ready-made components from third parties to assemble its chainsaws. Therefore, the original STIHL MS 660 chainsaws are equipped with carburetors manufactured by this company. Chinese chainsaws may have carburetors manufactured by Walbro, Rezer, Kimoto, Cingcong, as well as other unknown manufacturers.

• What carburetor is installed on the STIHL MS 660 chainsaw
• The device and principle of operation of the carburetor chainsaw STIHL MS 660
• DIY STIHL MS 660 chainsaw carburetor adjustment
• What is needed to adjust
• Standard or basic adjustment
• Current setting
• Idle speed adjustment
• Features and differences of carburetor adjustment on a Chinese chainsaw
• What is the difference between the STIHL MS 660 carburetor and the STIHL MS 650
• Similar posts
• How to Adjust the Chainsaw Carburetor. Chainsaw Maintenance. Dismantling the carburetor chainsaw Chinese STIHL 660 does not adjust the carburetor on. Part 11
• Chinese STIHL IGNITION and Carburetor Tuning.
• Similar posts
• Symptoms of malfunctions and breakdowns in which carburetor adjustment is required.
• Purpose, design and principle of operation of the carburetor.
• Husqvarna Saw Carburetor Adjustment.
• Chainsaws Partner and STIHL, their adjustments.
• Tuning the carburetor of a Chinese chainsaw

How to Adjust the Chainsaw Carburetor. Chainsaw Maintenance. Dismantling the carburetor chainsaw Chinese STIHL 660 does not adjust the carburetor on. Part 11

In this video, we will answer the question of how to set up or adjust the carburetor of a chainsaw with your own hands.

What is the difference between the STIHL MS 660 carburetor and the STIHL MS 650

STIHL MS 660 and MS 650 belong to the same class of powerful professional chainsaws, close in technical characteristics and design. The STIHL MS 660 has a combustion chamber volume of 91.6 cc with a power of 7.1 HP.

STIHL MS 650. 84.9 cc and 6.7 HP They have externally almost identical carburetors, which are regulated according to the same algorithm.

The design differences are that the carburetors of the STIHL MS 650 chainsaw use calibrated holes in the jets and channels of a smaller diameter.

The original German carburetor on the STIHL MS 660 chainsaw does not apply to consumables that must be replaced after a certain service life. The service life of which it is capable may exceed the resource of the chainsaw as a whole.

Chainsaw carburetor adjustment ensures efficient operation of the tool at full power with economical fuel consumption. Adjustments must be made with clean fuel and air filters. For a larger number of carburetors, adjustment is carried out with 3 screws: for high and low speed and idle speed adjustment.

The H and L screws adjust the ratio of the mixture of gasoline and air, which is determined by opening the throttle valve of the carburetor. On STIHL chainsaws ms adjusting the carburetor instructions for the STIHL chainsaw ms 660. When the screws are unscrewed, the mixture is enriched, and the speed falls accordingly, when tightened, the mixture becomes leaner. the speed increases.

Designation H refers to the maximum speed screw that controls the main jet, L refers to the minimum speed screw that controls the idle jet. The S screw is used to fine-tune the idle speed. The article discusses in detail the adjustment of the chainsaw carburetor with three adjusting screws, as well as the adjustment of the STIHL 180 chainsaw carburetor with one screw. Sometimes, to simplify tuning, the number of available carburetor adjusting screws is reduced.

Chainsaw carburetor tuning is divided into two stages. basic (factory settings), carried out with the engine off. and the final, produced on a running warm engine. The exact value of the angles of rotation should be taken from the operating instructions for the particular chainsaw. Failure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions may result in engine damage.

DIY STIHL MS 660 chainsaw carburetor adjustment

All carburetors on STIHL MS 660 chainsaws are factory set at equipped stands. This ensures the best operating parameters of the internal combustion engine in all modes. Settings get lost very rarely. Before adjusting, you need to make sure it is necessary. Deterioration of the internal combustion engine can be caused by other reasons:

• Clogged air filter.
• Spark extinguishing grille and muffler outlet pipes clogged with carbon.

If there are no problems with them, or they have been eliminated, and the internal combustion engine does not work normally, they begin to adjust.

The carburetor of the STIHL MS 660 chainsaw has three adjusting screws:

• LA for idle speed control.
• H for adjusting the fuel supply at high speeds (main screw).
• L to adjust the fuel and air proportions (mixture quality screw).

The L and H screws are located side by side, LA away from them. All of them are marked on the body.

Chinese STIHL IGNITION and Carburetor Tuning.

In this video I will show you how to properly install the ignition on a chainsaw and how to set up the carburetor for benz.

Basic carburetor adjustment.

The adjusting screws for maximum H and minimum L turns are slowly turned clockwise until they stop, then turned back 2 turns, other settings are also possible

Checking and adjusting idle speed.

Husqvarna Saw Carburetor Adjustment.

For the break-in mode, so that the parts receive sufficient lubrication, the carburetor setting of the Husqvarna chainsaw is made so that the maximum speed is 600-700 rpm. below working. If it is not possible to set the operating maximum frequency by the tachometer, you should not change the presets with the H screw. It is forbidden to exceed the value of the maximum number of revolutions by the manufacturer. If, after completing the adjustment, the saw chain moves when the engine is idling, turn the screw T counterclockwise to bring it to a complete stop.

For accurate adjustment, the saw must be warmed up for at least 10 minutes, set on a flat surface. The tire should point away from the person making the tune. At the initial stage, the highest idle frequency should be found. To do this, screw L is smoothly turned first from left to right, then vice versa. When the maximum revolutions are found empirically, screw L should be unscrewed counterclockwise by a value from 1/8 to a quarter of a full revolution.

Idling is adjusted by the nozzle marked with the letter T. It must be turned from left to right until the chain starts to move. Then gently feed in the opposite direction until the rotation of the chain stops. Screw H is considered to be installed correctly if the noise of the saw at full throttle without load remains small. If the exhaust is too smoky and the saw makes a lot of noise, the mixture is too rich. It is necessary to turn the H jet clockwise until the correct sound is set. How to properly tune the carburetor, you can watch the video below.

Setting and adjusting the carburetor STIHL 211

The STIHL 211 saw needs carburetor adjustment the first time it is used or when changing to seasonal modes. Follow the instruction manual carefully during debugging. Correct adjustment of the tool in a complex with high-quality fuels and lubricants will allow you to use the saw at full capacity, fully using it for any type of work. We also suggest that you familiarize yourself with the video, which describes in detail about adjusting the carburetor:

Adjusting the carburetor step by step

• We check the condition of the air filter. We remove it and either clean it or change it. If the air filter is clogged with dirt and sawdust, the chainsaw will not work normally.
• We check the condition of the muffler. It should be clean and unforgotten. Read more about cleaning the muffler HERE.
• Before you start adjusting the carburetor, you should fill the fuel tank at least half.
• If the chainsaw is capable of starting, then let it run for a few minutes so that it warms up. If the adjustment is carried out “cold”, then the mixture will be re-enriched after warming up.
• It is necessary to start the adjustment by adjusting the idle speed-screw L. It is highly desirable to have a tachometer, then FOCUS on 2700 rpm. If not, then we need to find the highest idle rpm. In this case, the chain should not rotate. If it still turns (the chain, of course, not the Earth), then we achieve its stop by rotating the screw T. The sound of the chainsaw should be like listening to the file below. https://benzopilatut.ru/wp-content/uploads/2016/01/Chainsaw-on- idle.wav
• We regulate high rpm. screw H. If we rotate it clockwise, then the rpm will increase, and if counterclockwise, it will fall. We twist it until there are dips in the ignition. After that, we turn it out about one-fifth of a turn. The sound of the chainsaw when working at maximum speed should be the same as when listening to the file below. https://benzopilatut.ru/wp-content/uploads/2016/01/Chainsaw-maximum- revs.wav
• We check how the chainsaw is gaining momentum. She must type them smoothly and quickly. If the revolutions grow slowly, then slightly unscrew the screw L.

If you have any questions, write in the Комментарии и мнения владельцев or better in the VK group.

Remember that the optimal carburetor setting is:

Chainsaw STIHL (STIHL) 211: characteristics, features

Chainsaws of the German brand STIHL with each new modification provide owners with an improved design and excellent performance. STIHL 211 chainsaws take their place in the model range, which, for some reason, users completely undeservedly deprive of attention. Manufacturers created this saw, taking into account all the disadvantages of previous developments, as well as the wishes of buyers. STIHL 211 is light enough, efficient, economical. The tool belongs to the category of household tools, but its design and capabilities allow solving rather difficult tasks, which makes this saw necessary for any private household.

“Poor mixture”

There is an excess of air in the “lean” mixture, which is not good either, since it has its drawbacks. Namely: insufficient energy in the flash (which means a loss of power as a result), excessive heating of the cylinder due to insufficient lubrication and high rpm, which leads to scuffing, and there it is not far to “jam” the engine.

Tuning the carburetor of a Chinese chainsaw

The position of the screw L, at which it is loosened by one and a half turns from the fully clamped position, is considered standard for “Chinese” carburetors. For screw H. one revolution from the same state. In many videos, the L screw is called the adjustment of the quality of the mixture, and the H screw is called its quantity. Idle speed is adjusted in the same way as described above with a warm engine.

Purpose, design and principle of operation of the carburetor.

The carburetor is needed to prepare the air-fuel mixture to power the engine. If the proportions in this mixture are not correct, the motor will malfunction. If the proportion is not observed in the direction of increasing the amount of fuel, the mixture is called oversaturated, if, on the contrary, there is little fuel, it is called lean. Both of them do not affect the operation of the engine in the best way.

In different models of chainsaws, carburetors differ in design, but they are similar in principle of operation. The air stream moves at high speed through the air duct. A damper blocking the channel allows you to change the speed of the air stream. The fuel is fed through the nozzle into the channel, where it mixes with the incoming air, forming an air-fuel mixture. The resulting mixture enters the engine.

The pressure in the float chamber, where the fuel is located before mixing, is practically equal to atmospheric pressure. But a vacuum is created in the air channel, due to which the fuel is drawn into the air stream. The more the damper is opened, the faster the air moves, and the amount of fuel also increases. the engine speed increases. So, in a simplified way, you can imagine the principle of the carburetor.

Chainsaw carburetor adjustment is required for efficient, smooth operation of the tool, getting maximum output and at the same time economical fuel consumption. Before making adjustments, check the fuel and air filters. they must be clean. On most chainsaws, adjustment is carried out with three screws: idle, high speed, low speed. The following signs indicate the correct setting of the carburetor:

• The chain does not move when idling.
• The engine accelerates smoothly and quickly.
• The sound of the engine running is smooth, similar to the sound of a four-stroke engine.

Adjusting the carburetor should be treated with all possible care, because errors in the settings can lead to very serious consequences, up to the occurrence of engine malfunction. If you are not completely confident in your abilities, you need to contact the service center.

Chainsaw Carburetor Adjustment: Complete Tuning Guide

A carburetor plays a critical role in running gas chainsaws. This component must function properly to allow the necessary air and fuel mixture. It is responsible for letting a specific amount of air reach the fuel.

Otherwise, the engine would either run rich or lean. The chainsaw won’t chop correctly in both cases and might not even run.

Proper chainsaw carburetor adjustment is a part of the basic maintenance of any chainsaw Despite being simple, all chainsaw owners do not practice this adjustment. The secret lies in proper control of the adjustment screws. If you want to know more about adjusting your carburetor, keep reading this blog post.

Understanding the Carburetor

Before diving deep into adjustment steps, we will help you understand more about the carburetor and how it works.

What is a Carburetor?

A carburetor is not only found inside gasoline-powered chainsaws. It is a primary component in all mechanical machines running 2-stroke engines. It is mainly responsible for vaporizing the gas and blending it with air.

The carburetor is supposed to draw sufficient levels of air per engine load and other mechanical conditions. Inside the carburetor, the fuel is vaporized and atomized. Then air and fuel get mixed proportionally.

When a carburetor is not correctly adjusted, too much or too little air is mixed with the fuel. Incorrect air-fuel mixtures result in various problems with the tool’s performance.

When there is too much air mixed with the fuel, this indicates lean running of the carburetor. However, if there is less air in the mixture, this suggests the carburetor is set on rich adjustment.

In the first case, the chainsaw would suddenly overheat. over, there will be an inevitable engine failure. In the second case, you would B.

Types and Components of a Carburetor

Carburetors are found in different types. They come in different categories that are classified depending on various characteristics. For instance, carburetors can be classified according to the number of their units.

In this case, you will find single and double carburetors. Also, they can be categorized based on the types of venturi.

The categorization can go on forever, as there are numerous classification factors. However, a general classification divides carburetors into three different types.

1. Uplift Carburetors:

This is one of the first types of carburetors. In this design, the air is supposed to flow from the bottom to the top. So, the airflow direction is upward until it exits the carburetor and reaches the engine. In this case, t he carburetor is located below the intake manifold.

Down draft Carburetors:

In simple words, this type of carburetor is the exact opposite of the uplift type. These carburetors are designed to have the airflow downward. The air flows into the carburetor from above but heads down to reach the engine. This typically means that the carb is found above the intake.

3. Horizontal Carburetors:

Horizontal or side-draft carburetors are typically found on the side of the chainsaw’s engine. This is the most common type in chainsaws and lawnmowers. In this case, the air will flow until it exits the carb and reaches the engine.

Components of a Carburetor

A carburetor is mainly shaped like a tube. This tube is mostly made of aluminum, but some of its internal parts are stainless steel. These parts should work in harmony to perform the primary carburetor function. These parts include:

1. Throttle plate:

This is a disc that can be adjusted to open and shut. This way, it allows adequate air inside the engine or, more accurately, the carburetor. This plate is made of brass. When it is open, fuel is drawn into the carburetor as well.

2. The Venturi:

You can think of a venturi as a narrow passage. The air must pass through this narrowness, which, in turn, maximizes the speed of the air. Typically, this leads to proportional vacuuming of gasoline to make the correct mixture.

3. The Jets:

A jet in a carburetor is a small nozzle that consists of a hole. Before reaching the venturi to mix with air, the fuel must pass through. After passing successfully, the air-fuel blend is created.

Signs of Common Carburetor Problems

Before going for a carburetor tune, knowing when it needs tuning is essential. When the chainsaw’s performance is different, you can tell something is wrong with your carb. One of the common symptoms of carburetor issues is starting failure, and also when you spot dark exhaust coming from the chainsaw.

Additionally, engine overheating can be a telltale sign. Each one of these signs can indicate a different problem. But in general, their presence means it is time to bring your carburetor adjustment tool kit.

Chainsaw Carburetor Adjustment

If you suspect the carburetor to be the main culprit in your chainsaw’s issues, such as poor engine speed, you should not hesitate to inspect it. It is about manipulating all three idle, low-speed, and high-speed adjustments.

You will need the standard carburetor adjustment tool set. This includes using a digital tachometer, a flathead screwdriver, and a socket wrench. The tachometer should help in the accurate determination of the engine’s speed.

Here is a step-by-step guide for proper carb adjustment that can work for different chainsaws, including Poulan Husqvarna. STIHL. Echo. and more:

• Start inspecting the adjustment screws, which are always three. They are the idle-speedscrew, the high-speed screw, and the low-speed screw.
• In all chainsaws, these screws are referred to by their first letters. The I stands for ‘idle adjustment.’ H stands for ‘high-speed’ adjustment, and L is for ‘low-speed’ adjustment.
• It is recommended to start with the high adjustment. So, use the screwdriver to rotate the H screw in a clockwise direction slowly. Stop screwing once the driver won’t turn anymore. There is no need for any forceful actions.
• Do the same action to the L adjustment setting of the low-speed carburetor adjustment screw.
• Once again, unscrew the H setting or high-speed atmosphere screw by turning it slowly in the opposite direction. Repeat the same routine with the L setting.
• Now, it is time to start the saw as you usually do. Make sure to run it at full throttle. You will have to do some screwing again with the H settings. Turn the H screw clockwise till the engine revs moderately. So, pay attention to the throttle response as you move.
• Now, it is time to turn the idle screw clockwise until the engine idles. Once you are done with this step, the engine will run smoothly and more efficiently.
• Lastly, you will tend toward a low-speed jet or the L adjustment. Rotate the screw till you hear the engine revving get louder. Once done with this step, your saw can perform at max power.

Tips for the Efficient Adjustment of Chainsaws Carburetors

If you are about to bring out the carburetor adjustment tool screwdriver kit and start working, ensure you have a clean air filter. A dirty air filter will make all the adjustment efforts go in vain. It will make the engine run lean once more.

Another helpful tip for successful carburetor tuning is to inspect the air filter. A dirty air filter will make the engine run lean again.

Critical Safety Precautions

Staying safe when adjusting a carburetor is a top priority. You should not risk getting hurt by holding the chainsaw incorrectly or running it by accident. Also, it is necessary to avoid coming into contact with the engine fan. A running fan can cut your fingers.

Keep in mind that poor adjustments can make an engine overheat. So, it is not recommended to touch it or any other part when they are hot.

Even if you are experienced with chainsaws, you should only adjust the carb with taking protective precautions. You must wear safety gloves and protective goggles.

Lastly, it is never too late to seek professional help if you cannot tackle the adjustment tasks independently. You can bring the saw to a nearby shop, where they will put everything in order.

Troubleshooting

DIY carburetor adjustment is a routine task. This means you will have to repeat it each season. over, it is one of the first things that should come to mind when your engine is different.

One of the most common issues that face all chainsaw owners is the poor cleanliness of fuel lines and filters. Air filters are always exposed to debris from the trees. over, fuel lines can get clogged with carbon deposits.

So, checking these components regularly for cleanliness or replacing them when needed is mandatory. Last but not least, ensure that the fuel tank is filled adequately.

Conclusion

The correct adjustment of your chainsaw is a costly undertaking. It is a part of the regular maintenance of any chainsaw like the Husqvarna Echo or any STIHL saw model. This action is recommended by certified technicians every time significant temperature changes occur.

It aims at improving the efficiency of the saw’s operation and increase fuel efficiency. Performing this routine adjustment is relatively easy, but it requires proper tools, careful following of the tuning tips, and safety precautions.

Chainsaw Won’t Idle – Fast easy fix!

It’s not fun trying to handle timber with a chainsaw that won’t idle. Using a chainsaw is dangerous enough without having to balance the throttle to stop it from stalling.

So why won’t your chainsaw idle? The two most common reasons a chainsaw won’t idle are a blocked air filter and an idle screw out of adjustment. Other possible causes include:

Just before we look at the most likely reason your saw won’t idle, we’ll need to check some of the basics, and I’ll fill you in on why they’re important, or if you want to skip all this, go ahead and slide on down to the “Adjusting the idle screw” below.

What’s Air Fuel Ratio?

Chainsaws are two-stroke engines, and they’re fitted with a small, very finely balanced carburetor. The engine, as you know, runs on a precise mix of air to fuel, known as AFR (Air Fuel Ratio), typically 14.7 parts air to one part gas.

Any change to this ratio will cause poor performance, a blockage in either the fuel or air, and it just won’t run right, especially at idle. Needless to say, the gas should be fresh and mixed to the correct ratio for your saw.

Old gas will cause all kinds of poor performance problems. Too much oil in the gas can cause the plug to misfire, and too little runs the risk of damaging the engine. The spark plug should be clean and gaped correctly. I like to have a new plug handy. It makes troubleshooting a saw a lot easier.

The spark arrester (muffler) can block, causing poor performance and problem idling. The muffler can be removed for inspection and cleaning.

Balance – The carburetor is designed to mix gas and air to a set ratio of 14.7:1.

Any change to the ratio will cause performance issues. A blocked air filter or too much/little gas will change the ratio.

Check The Basics

Before adjusting anything, go ahead and check the basics, that’s the airway clear, the gas is fresh and mixed correctly, and finally, the spark plug is in great shape. You’ll need a few tools for some of these checks.

Tools – A fine flat screwdriver does the job. A Scrench would also be handy for removing the plug to clean or replace.

The Basics – Plug should be clean and gaped to spec. The gas should be fresh and mixed to the correct ratio for your saw.

Too much oil in the gas mix will cause the plug to oil and misfire, and as you know, too little will damage the engine.

Check The Air Filter

Cleaning the air filter is the obvious place to start. They get pretty dirty. Chainsaws, as you know, throw out a lot of dust and debris, some saws run a turbo-type system where the air is directed towards the carburetor, and it’s up to the filter to catch all this crap.

All modern chainsaws have tool-less air filter covers, which makes accessing them really easy. Air filters differ from saw to saw. Some have a fine mesh screen, and others will have a fabric or foam filter. Compressed air is the best way to clean them, but not everyone has a compressor, so make do with tapping it on a flat solid surface to loosen up the debris. A clean rag or better, a bristled brush will clean it out in no time.

Typically filters last a long time as they are designed to be durable. However, if your filter has a hole in it or you see a lot of debris in the intake of the saw, you’ll need a new filter.

Cleaning – Pull the choke before removing the filter. It stops dirt from dropping into the carburetor intake. Filters can be reused unless damaged.

Locating Idle Screw

All gas chainsaws will have three adjusting screws on the carburetor. These adjusters can be accessed without removing any covers. The adjuster’s identity will be marked on the side cover of the saw, where the adjusting takes place. You won’t see the adjusters. You identify the correct access port and insert the correct adjusting tool.

The first adjuster is the low throttle adjuster, marked on the body cover and carburetor with the letter (L). The second is the high throttle adjuster, and it’s marked with the letter (H). These two adjusters are positioned as a pair, side by side. Often these H L adjusters will require a special tool to adjust and are set from the factory. They can be adjusted, but it takes real finesse to adjust them correctly. I will link a separate guide for that here in the future.

The 3rd adjuster is the Idle screw adjuster. This is usually positioned just above or below the paired low and high adjusters.

This is the adjuster we are going to adjust. It will be marked with the letter I or T or LA. Usually, you’ll only need a flat screwdriver, something that will fit through the hole in the side cover. You may be tempted to remove the air filter to gain access, but adjusting needs to happen with the air filter fitted. That’s the point of the access ports.

Ports – The adjusting ports are on the left-hand side of the saw. On some saws, you’ll need to push the pull handle to the side to access the ports.

The idle adjuster screw will be marked with the letters I, T, or LA. And are usually located just above or below the H L portholes.

Adjusting Idle Screw

The saw should be warm before any adjustment takes place. The air filter should be clean, fitted to the saw, and the chain brake should be off.

1 – When the saw is warm and not running, turn the adjusting screw in (clockwise) a half turn, start the saw, repeat this process until the saw idles.

2 – The saw now idles, great! But it should idle without the chain moving.

If the chain is moving while the saws idling, then back the idle screw out a 1/4 turn until the chain stops, this fine-tuning can now be done with the saw idling.

If you find the saw keeps falling out of adjustment, like after you use it for an hour or so. Try a drop of super glue or thread lock on the threads of the adjusting screw. The constant vibration of the saw can often loosen the screws.

You may find this page useful, I’ve listed the tools I use to clean and adjust carburetors “Chainsaw parts tools”.

Still Won’t Idle?

If the saw still won’t idle, you have cleaned the air filter, got fresh gas mixed correctly, the plug is clean gaped, and adjusting the idle screw hasn’t worked.

The next likely problem is a faulty carburetor. Repair kits are available, but buying a whole carburetor is a much better option. Fitting the carburetor is pretty easy on most models.

If you choose to replace the carburetor, be sure to replace the gasket or seal between carburetor and manifold and also replace the fuel filter in the gas tank.

Replace – Carburetors wear out, and when that happens, they are close to impossible to keep tuned. Replacing the carburetor is the way to go.

You will find most saws run a Zama or Walbro carburetor, and the model will be clearly marked. Fitting is usually a simple job.

Is Your Saw Surging?

The saw is revving up and down by itself, and you can’t adjust it so it runs smoothly. This is quite common, and it means you have a vacuum leak. Finding the leak is the problem. They can be difficult to find without the right tools. A vacuum leak is an air that enters the saw without passing through the carburetor, which means it’s un-metered. This causes the saw to run lean (not enough gas), which causes the saw to run hot and erratic.

Special gauges are needed to diagnose successfully. Otherwise, you are just throwing parts at it, never a good idea.

Vacuum Leak – Components that cause vacuum leaks include Carburetors; Manifolds, Gaskets; Crankcase seals; Cracks in the body casing.

Stihl ms 250 chainsaw carburetor adjustment stihl chainsaw carb adjustment tune up

Surging – Tricky to solve without the right tools. Worn or damaged carburetor to manifold gaskets and cracked manifolds are a common cause of surging.

Carburetor wear, crankshaft seal leaks, leaking head-gaskets, and saw body cracks, will all have you tearing your hair out.

You may also find “Chainsaw troubleshooting” section helpful.

Related Questions

Why does my chainsaw start then stop? The carburetor is most likely blocked. Other possible causes include:

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STIHL 041 AV Carb Adjustment

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intc97

New Member

Lately my saw will only run well if the choke is about 1/3 on. Since I had a new carb kit put in this summer, I figure it needs an adjustment. Don’t have the manual so I’m asking for advise on how to adjust the two screws and which screw is which. Thanks

smokinj

Minister of Fire

Lately my saw will only run well if the choke is about 1/3 on. Since I had a new carb kit put in this summer, I figure it needs an adjustment. Don’t have the manual so I’m asking for advise on how to adjust the two screws and which screw is which. Thanks

the h screw is adjusted by sound get it to full throttle and turn it till it sounds perfect then back off just a little til it sounds like it missing out just a little.now the L screw is for iddle just turn it till it iddles good! http://web.archive.org/web/20051018212959/www.madsens1.com/sawtune.htm listen to the “Saw Idle Adjustment Sound WAV” “once you here it you will never forget it”

880 traded/460/192mill 14,,20,28,32,41 x2-2000 Wood Stove and wood burning furnace (traded) (dhw).

Gf who gets it. priceless! Skin that one up pilgrim, And I will get you another.

taxidermist

Minister of Fire

Lately my saw will only run well if the choke is about 1/3 on. Since I had a new carb kit put in this summer, I figure it needs an adjustment. Don’t have the manual so I’m asking for advise on how to adjust the two screws and which screw is which. Thanks

If you had a saw shop install the kit have them tune it for you with a tach. With fuel now a days you want to be right on on your richlean mixture or you will smoke the pistion and cylinder.

STIHL ms260 pro 18″ STIHL ms 250 16″ STIHL 044 with BB kit 20″ STIHL ms 360 20″ STIHL 024 16″ 4 Jonsered 2171rs 3=20″ 1=36″ Branson 3510 compact loader Home made splitter http://www.ekowoodboilerblog.blogspot.com/

smokinj

Minister of Fire

Lately my saw will only run well if the choke is about 1/3 on. Since I had a new carb kit put in this summer, I figure it needs an adjustment. Don’t have the manual so I’m asking for advise on how to adjust the two screws and which screw is which. Thanks

How to tune a chainsaw carburetor

If you had a saw shop install the kit have them tune it for you with a tach. With fuel now a days you want to be right on on your richlean mixture or you will smoke the pistion and cylinder.

If you can learn how to do it by ear you will never need a tack! Listen to it on the video its not that hard, and all you need is a screwdriver. You should know this so when your in the field you will never run it to lean

880 traded/460/192mill 14,,20,28,32,41 x2-2000 Wood Stove and wood burning furnace (traded) (dhw).

Gf who gets it. priceless! Skin that one up pilgrim, And I will get you another.

taxidermist

Minister of Fire

Lately my saw will only run well if the choke is about 1/3 on. Since I had a new carb kit put in this summer, I figure it needs an adjustment. Don’t have the manual so I’m asking for advise on how to adjust the two screws and which screw is which. Thanks

If you had a saw shop install the kit have them tune it for you with a tach. With fuel now a days you want to be right on on your richlean mixture or you will smoke the pistion and cylinder.

If you can learn how to do it by ear you will never need a tack! Listen to it on the video its not that hard, and all you need is a screwdriver. You should know this so when your in the field you will never run it to lean

STIHL ms260 pro 18″ STIHL ms 250 16″ STIHL 044 with BB kit 20″ STIHL ms 360 20″ STIHL 024 16″ 4 Jonsered 2171rs 3=20″ 1=36″ Branson 3510 compact loader Home made splitter http://www.ekowoodboilerblog.blogspot.com/

smokinj

Minister of Fire

Lately my saw will only run well if the choke is about 1/3 on. Since I had a new carb kit put in this summer, I figure it needs an adjustment. Don’t have the manual so I’m asking for advise on how to adjust the two screws and which screw is which. Thanks

If you had a saw shop install the kit have them tune it for you with a tach. With fuel now a days you want to be right on on your richlean mixture or you will smoke the pistion and cylinder.

If you can learn how to do it by ear you will never need a tack! Listen to it on the video its not that hard, and all you need is a screwdriver. You should know this so when your in the field you will never run it to lean

Yep its fun in the garge with a tack, i do it my self but one sould really know in less than a split sec. if its off or not! when temps change alitude or if you like cutting in the rain, you can adjust carb very quickly. just one more tool in the box for free

880 traded/460/192mill 14,,20,28,32,41 x2-2000 Wood Stove and wood burning furnace (traded) (dhw).

Gf who gets it. priceless! Skin that one up pilgrim, And I will get you another.

savageactor7

Minister of Fire

The basic adjustment from the book recommends HS adjustment 3/4 to 1 full turn open. LS 1 to 1 1/4 turns open. The top screw is for idle, the screw underneath it is the high speed. The bigger screw by itself to the left is the low speed. Try that and juke it around a little bit if you have to.

“How do you like them apples?” Captain Janks

smokinj

Minister of Fire

The basic adjustment from the book recommends HS adjustment 3/4 to 1 full turn open. LS 1 to 1 1/4 turns open. The top screw is for idle, the screw underneath it is the high speed. The bigger screw by itself to the left is the low speed. Try that and juke it around a little bit if you have to.

880 traded/460/192mill 14,,20,28,32,41 x2-2000 Wood Stove and wood burning furnace (traded) (dhw).

Gf who gets it. priceless! Skin that one up pilgrim, And I will get you another.

jdemaris

New Member

Lately my saw will only run well if the choke is about 1/3 on. Since I had a new carb kit put in this summer, I figure it needs an adjustment. Don’t have the manual so I’m asking for advise on how to adjust the two screws and which screw is which. Thanks

I was a STIHL mechanic starting back before STIHL have a real presence in the USA via Virginia Beach. The 040s and 041s had their own special problems.

Does it idle properly? All the 040s and 041s are prone to sucking in intake-manifold gaskets as well as breaking fuel-pump hoses.

For basic carb adjustment. just start out with the high and low screw both at one-turn. If, when you first start it cold it bogs when you gun it, just open up the low screw a bit. And, when warm, the high screw needs to be set so it runs so rich, it breaks up a little at high RPMs.no load.and smooths out when you start cutting.

the fuel impulse hose in one piece

the intake manifold removed. checked for a pulled out steel bushings and/or a warped surface-and reinstalled with Loctite. A warped manifold can often be filed smooth and resused.

the little screen checked and cleaned if needed inside carb. It will clog often if the saw is used often with a dull chain. That because a dull chain makes dust instead of chips. and that dust will pass throught the filter in the tank.

STIHL 361 Carb Adjustment Video

The necessity of the operation “Adjusting the carburetor of the chainsaw” is determined by the color of the spark plug electrodes: if black. means re-enrichment, if brick-gray. means the norm, if white coating on the candle electrodes means lean mixture. The main role in adjusting the carburetor of the STIHL chainsaw is played by the upper screw (closest to the muffler). According to the factory parameters (indicated on the cover of the chainsaw) it must be unscrewed by 1 revolution, and then it must be adjusted. if you unscrew it, the working mixture is enriched (more gasoline enters the air-fuel mixture), if this screw is screwed in, the working mixture is depleted (less gasoline gets into the air-fuel mixture).

Adjusting the carburetor of the STIHL MS 250 chainsaw (with rev counter):

Before adjusting the carburetor of the STIHL chainsaw, it is necessary to carry out maintenance of the chainsaw (cleaning the carburetor of the chainsaw, washing the engine of the chainsaw, replacing the spark plug, cleaning the air filter, checking the chain tension, adjusting the idling speed, warming up the engine). See also: Banks of Kremenchug. Continue the adjustment:

Screw the screws “H” and “L” (on the muffled chainsaw) as far as they will go, and then turn them both out 1 turn. 2. Start the chainsaw and warm it up. Give full throttle and use the “H” screw to achieve a maximum engine speed of 14,000 rpm. by tachometer (by engine speed counter). Maximum revolutions for adjustment to keep no more than 10 seconds! 3. Use the “LA” idle stop bolt to make the chain begin to move, and then turn this bolt ¼ turn counterclockwise. 4. If, after this adjustment of the chainsaw carburetor, the idle speed is not stable, and the chainsaw does not accelerate well, then you need to turn the “L” screw a little counterclockwise until the chainsaw starts to gain speed and work well at idle. Then correct the bolt “LA” (idle tachometer should be 2800 rpm).

Note: It will not be possible to adjust the carburetor of the chainsaw if there is air inflow into the engine from the side (through the gasket under the carburetor, through the accelerator pump of the carburetor, through the oil seals of the crankshaft of the chainsaw or elsewhere).

Video: STIHL 361 Carb Adjustment Video

Reference!

Chainsaw Carb Adjustment STIHL may be needed when changing the quality of fuel, the altitude at which the STIHL chainsaw is used (vacuum), as well as when changing atmospheric pressure, temperature and humidity. Tuning the carburetor of the chainsaw allows you to achieve excellent performance chainsaws with deteriorating external operating conditions. Also, adjusting the carburetor of the chainsaw helps prevent oil starvation and engine breakdown due to insufficient lubrication entering the cylinder with a lean fuel mixture.

Tip: To check the tightness of the engine, it is very good to use a special device, i.e. special pump with pressure gauge. First you need to remove the carburetor on the chainsaw, and install a sealed plate plug with a flange on the inlet window of the cylinder to connect the hose to the pump. The spark plug for tightness can also be put on the sealant. You must also remove the muffler, and install a sealed plate with a rubber gasket on the exhaust port of the cylinder. Then you need to put the piston at top dead center and connect the hose from the pump to the flange. Next, you need to pump air into the engine up to 0.9 atm. and look at the gauge needle. if it stands still, then the piston of the engine is tight. Then we release air, switch the device (pump) and start pumping air out of the cylinder, creating a vacuum in the engine with a pressure gauge reading of 0.5 atm. We look at the pressure gauge needle. if it stands still, then through the gaskets or other seals in the engine there is no air leak (which worsens the operation of the chainsaw and does not allow the carburetor to be correctly adjusted for the chainsaw). Thus, we check the engine for air leakage and compression.

Adjusting the carburetor of the STIHL 180 chainsaw.

There is only one screw for adjusting the carburetor of the STIHL 180 chainsaw. the idle adjustment screw.

Standard idle adjustment (abbreviated h.h.): turn the screw counterclockwise until it goes tight, after which we make two turns clockwise, and that’s it. 2. If the engine speed is too low, turn the screw clockwise until the chain starts to move, and then turn the screw 0.5 turns counterclockwise. 3. If the engine speed is too high, turn the screw counterclockwise until the chain stops turning, and then turn the screw another 0.5 turns counterclockwise.

That’s it, the carburetor adjustment for the STIHL 180 chainsaw is finished.

Reference!

Chainsaw carburetor is A part of the fuel system of a chainsaw designed for foggy mixing gasoline with air and dosing the supply of this fuel mixture to the engine cylinder.

Note: The chainsaw carburetor mixes gasoline with air in a proportion of 1:14, i.e. 1 part of gasoline with oil is mixed with 14 parts of air, and adjusting the carburetor of the chainsaw ensures the correct ratio of these components of the fuel mixture.