SOLVED: How To Start A Flooded Chainsaw Without Tools In Under A Minute. Chainsaw not starting

SOLVED: How To Start A Flooded Chainsaw Without Tools In Under A Minute

One of the most common reasons why a chainsaw won’t start is because the engine has flooded. This is when too much fuel gets into the engine and there is not enough air for the spark plug to ignite.

The ‘why’ isn’t so important here, you just want to know how to quickly unflood a chainsaw.

This is the method I use that works every time without fail.

How To Unflood A Chainsaw

This video from Steve’s Small Engine Saloon does exactly as the title suggests – it shows you how to unflood a chainsaw fast.

Skip to the 4:35 mark if you want to skip the preamble and get to the method.

Watch it or follow these simple steps:

  • Engage the chainbrake
  • Lay the chainsaw on the ground
  • Put the chainsaw in the run position (definitely not choke)
  • Hold the trigger open
  • While holding the trigger, pull the starter cord until it starts (you may need to put your need on the top)

In the video, Steve has to pull on his starter cord 20 times, but whenever I have used this method to start my chainsaw, it starts in 4 or 5 pulls.

Steve had flooded his STIHL MS230 to the extreme, which is why it took him so many pulls to start the chainsaw.

For the most part, you should be able to start a chainsaw that has been flooded in under 30 seconds using this very straightforward method.

It doesn’t matter if you have a STIHL chainsaw, a Husqvarna chainsaw, Echo Chainsaw, or any of the other chainsaw brands out there. I’ve tried it with a lot of different gas chainsaws, and it works.

How To Flood A Chainsaw

How do chainsaws become flooded in the first place?

Obviously, it’s easier to not flood your chainsaw rather than going through the rigmarole of unflooding it.

Here are three ways you might be flooding your chainsaw:

  • Over choking
  • Over priming
  • Turning your chainsaw off immediately after starting

Other times you may have a carburetor problem, so if problems persist and you can’t work it out yourself, take it to a small engine repair store.

Chainsaw Not Starting

Starting a chainsaw shouldn’t be difficult, and a flooded engine is the number one cause of a chainsaw not starting.

There are a lot of other things that can go wrong from a clogged carb to a defective spark plug, or even bad fuel or oil.

If your chainsaw doesn’t start after trying out this unflooding method, it’s most likely something else.

It should go without saying, but this is NOT your problem if you have a battery or electric chainsaw!

The Tool Yard

How to fix, maintain be safe with chainsaws, lawn mowers, engines DIY tools and kits. Maybe some beer talk.

Starting a flooded chainsaw. A quick guide

One of my youngest memories is being with my father in an orchard somewhere cutting trees for firewood.

We had to wait for what felt like forever for my mum to turn up to take me home while Dad tended to the car.

Nothing, except to say my dad was pretty handy with a chainsaw. He had a green Poulan and as a kid, it just seemed the coolest thing in the world.

Tips on starting a flooded chainsaw

If you’ve got an old mixture of oil and gas that’s older than a month, it will be harder for your engine to start.

We suggest you drain and add fresh petrol to ensure a good start.

If you have tried several times unsuccessfully to start your unit, it is most likely flooded, especially so if you can smell gas.

Flooded means there is excessive fuel pumped into the engine which has displaced the vital ingredient of oxygen for starting.

The first is the easiest and most common method. Let your chainsaw sit for 15-20 minutes to allow the fuel to evaporate from the engine and then repeat the starting instructions.

This method will work best with a mildly flooded engine. The same principles apply to lawnmowers and weed whackers.

The more hands-on method to start a flooded chainsaw:

  • Have the chain break on
  • Turn the choke off
  • Activate the fast idle (by engaging the throttle lock/trigger assembly or pulling the choke out and pushing it back in
  • Turn the on/off switch to on
  • Hold the saw firmly on the ground as you do during normal starting, and pull the starter rope sharply until the saw starts. Do not pull the starter rope out to its full length. Employ short, brisk pulls instead.

If the engine does not start in 15 pulls then the spark plug may be ‘wet fouled’. If you suspect this has occurred, remove the spark plug and look for moist wet deposits on the electrode.

Once the plug is re-installed you can prime the carburetor: If the chainsaw has a primer bulb, press it several times to get fuel into the carburetor.

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Why Won’t My Chainsaw Start? 13 Possible Issues

So, you were asking why won’t my chainsaw start. Well, this is the complaint we have heard a hundred times, being the chainsaw experts! In case you don’t know what has gone wrong with your chainsaw, the top issues include a clogged chainsaw carburetor, a faulty plug, bad gas, defective armature, a dirty air filter, a damaged spark plug, out-of-order ignition coil, a flooded chainsaw engine or maybe the chainsaw doesn’t have enough fuel!

A chainsaw is an invaluable, handy, incredible, and worthy tool until it gets stubborn while starting. It is so because a faulty chainsaw delays the project and sets you back financially. Consequently, many prefer buying a new chainsaw instead of spending on chainsaw repairs, especially when the warranty has passed.

If you are also thinking the same, hold on! We have simple solutions, and as the stuff is basic, you don’t need an engineering degree to understand things. So, would you not like to use your chainsaws for a few years more?

On this page, you will explore the most common reasons why your chainsaw won’t start, quick ways to diagnose the issue, and the best way to fix it! Also, as a bonus, you will find guaranteed tips from our experts to avoid this problem from happening in the future. So, stay here and find it all!

Why Won’t My Chainsaw Start: Reasons

“Why won’t my chainsaw start” depicts the terrible situation where you got stuck in the middle of your project as your tool has stopped working. Now, the option you have left is to stress and wait for the miracle! But don’t you think the machinery only breaks down when there is a problem?

So, instead of getting anxiety attacks, take time to diagnose the problem your tool has been facing. Once you have highlighted the issue, the next step would be to solve the issue. It does not involve rocket science and will take just a few minutes to fix the issue. So, let’s dig deeper and find the real problem!

But before starting the investigation or troubleshooting the problem, it would be better to wear safety gear. Always put safety first, as a chainsaw can start at any time. Also, avoid baggy clothing, as such clothes could cause serious injuries!

So, here are the top problems that won’t let your chainsaw start. Also, you will find the solution to issues here:

A Defective Spark Plug

The spark plug of a chainsaw is one of the first things you must check when your chainsaw stops working. The chainsaw spark plug is responsible for igniting the spark, which initiates the combustion process inside the cylinder. The spark plugs of the running chainsaws should last more than one year. But with the use, carbon gets deposited on the electrodes, especially if you are using low-quality stroke oil.

When the chainsaw doesn’t start, you must take it out and inspect its condition. If you find carbon deposition over its electrodes, use light sandpaper and clean the chainsaw spark plug. Also, check the gap of the electrodes and ensure that it is at the factory settings, which you can find in the user’s manual.

To inspect the chainsaw spark plug, you must take it off. Then, use the plug wire to contact the engine and carefully observe if the electrodes produce a strong blue spark. If you don’t witness any spark, then take a steel brush and remove the corrosion from the electrode. But even if, after cleaning, the spark plug seems dead, you must replace it!

If you got that spark, but the chainsaw is not starting, there could be a problem with the chainsaw wire. So, ensure that the chainsaw spark plug wire is intact. If the chainsaw spark plug and its wire are just fine, the problem would probably be with the ignition coil!

Clogged Carburetor, Which Needs Cleaning

The function of the chainsaw carburetor is to mix the air and fuel to start the internal combustion engine. Leaving the fuel inside the chainsaw engine for a whole season can become sticky and clog the carburetor. Consequently, it will not let your chainsaw start!

Remember that the gasoline will start breaking exactly after 30 days. The oxygen will react with the gasoline, and as a result of this oxidation, you get gums, varnishes, and other insoluble substances. The sticky materials block the fuel flow and make starting a chainsaw a real problem.

If possible, clean the chainsaw carburetor, put it back, and start operating it. For cleaning the chainsaw, you can use a specialized cleaning solution before doing that, don’t forget to drain out the fuel. But, if the chainsaw doesn’t start even after cleaning, replacing this chainsaw with a new carburetor seems to be the better option.

Damaged Carburetor Which Needs To Be Replaced

To test the chainsaw carburetor, please remove the air filter, pour a few drops of oil into it, and pull the starter rope. If the chainsaw engine starts and dies immediately, it happens because of the carburetor.

If the chainsaw carburetor is too clogged that even the cleaning seems useless, or if it is damaged or too old, it would be better to replace it.

So, when you are left only with a replacement option, you must choose a chainsaw carburetor that is compatible with your tool. While replacing the chainsaw carburetor, you must follow the instructions mentioned in the user’s manual!

A Broken Rewind Spring

The rewind spring is part of the starter coil assembly and is used to rewind the starter cord after every pull. So, after you pull the starter rope, the engine will not get started if the rope does not rewind.

The issue which is not letting your chainsaw start is the damaged rewind spring. So, to fix this problem, you must replace the chainsaw rewind spring. Depending on the model of your chainsaw, you may either have to replace the whole recoil starter assembly or just the rewind spring!

Ignition Coil

The ignition coil of your chainsaw is a crucial part of the chainsaw, which is responsible for sending the voltage to the chainsaw spark plug. The chainsaw’s spark plug-in results create that needed spark which ignites the fuel and lets the engine start. If the chainsaw won’t start with spark and fuel, then the ignition coil is surely causing the problem.

The ignition coil can easily get damaged with time and use. So, to ensure that the chainsaw coil is the culprit, you must test the chainsaw coil. For testing the chainsaw, you can use the Multimeter, and if you don’t get a spark during testing, it reveals that the chainsaw ignition coil is faulty, don’t waste a second and replace it.

Plugged Fuel Filter

The sticky and gummy material left behind after the evaporation of the gasoline not only clogs the chainsaw carburetor but will also plug the fuel filter. Consequently, the chainsaw fuel filter will restrict the flow of fuel.

The experts recommend being very careful while filling up the gas tank. The sawdust, debris, and other particles can easily get inside the tank when pouring the fuel. Additionally, putting the chainsaw gas cap on the ground can collect various types of junk that wound up inside the gas tank later. Therefore, always be careful whether you are filling the gas tank or placing the chainsaw gas gap. The only solution to this problem is cleaning!

Flooded Chainsaw Engine

The chainsaw-flooded engine is one of the most common causes that your chainsaw won’t start or chainsaw won’t stay running. The chainsaw operators often try to start the chainsaw via a recoil starter system, but they accidentally flood the chainsaw engine with fuel. Also, you can flood the chainsaw engine by pressing the primer bulb too many times.

Starting a Stihl Chainsaw the correct way. NEVER flood it Again!

So, if you also feel the gasoline smell, it indicates that the chainsaw has been flooded. For starting the flooded chainsaw, pull the starter cord multiple times while holding the throttle, and dry or replace the spark plug. Also, you can let the chainsaw sit for about 20 minutes, and during this time, the extra fuel will evaporate, and you can start the chainsaw pretty easily lately.

A Dirty Spark-Arrestor Screen

The chainsaw spark arrestor is a screen that doesn’t let the sparks fly out of the chainsaw while you are running the chainsaw. Also, the spark arrestor screen significantly affects the fuel-to-air mixture. That is why, when you use low-quality fuel or run the chainsaw too rich, it creates excessive oil droplets which clog the chainsaw spark arrestor screen resultantly.

The screen is made of fiberglass, and over time, the screen gets clogged from soot. To let the chainsaw run efficiently, you must keep it clean. So, if the chainsaw fails to start, it would be far better to inspect the spark arrestor screen and clean it up if you find it dirty.

For cleaning, remove the spark arrestor screen and use the wire brush. But, if the chainsaw tends to stall after cleaning, you can replace this screen. The professionals suggest replacing the arrestor after every 25 hours of use.

The Dirty Air Filter

The plugged chainsaw air filters significantly affect the air-to-gas ratio and don’t let your chainsaw start. So, when your chainsaw doesn’t start while everything seems well, don’t forget to check the chainsaw air filter. If it is dirty, clean it, and if it’s damaged, you must replace it!

The dirty chainsaw air filter draws more gas than air, just like when the choke is one. Also, running the chainsaw with a clogged air filter will increase the carbon deposition significantly because running rich produces plenty of unburned fuel.

Besides, if the engine sits idle for long hours, it will also increase the carbon build-up. To prevent this, give your chainsaw a hard run, even using a small model. After using the chainsaw for five hours, please take out the chainsaw air filters and wash them. You can use soapy water for washing, let the chainsaw air filters dry before you put them back, and start using the chainsaw.

There will be no airflow or operation with a dirty chainsaw air filter. Therefore, cleaning the chainsaw air filter should be part of regular cleaning, and if it gets dirt excessively, don’t take time to replace it.

Remember that the chainsaw air filter is the defense system of your chainsaw which prevents the sawdust and other particles from entering the chainsaw. Also, the filter is available at a cheap price as compared to a new chainsaw. So, why not extend your chainsaw’s life by cleaning or replacing the chainsaw air filters?

Defective Recoil Starter Assembly

If you are stressed and thinking, why won’t my chainsaw start? The reason could be the recoil starter assembly which needs to be replaced. The recoil starter allows the chainsaw operators to pull the starter cord and engage the internal starting mechanism, which eventually starts the chainsaw engine. So, if there is any defect in the recoil starter assembly, how could you start the chainsaw?

For testing the chainsaw recoil assembly, take it out of the chainsaw. Pull the cord, which should cause the tabs to extend from the pulley and cam; grab the hub over the engine and let it turn over. After that, the tabs will retract, causing the cord to pull back in when you release the cord.

If it is not happening the way it should, replace the recoil starter assembly. Also, you may find that the pulley system has been stuck and needs to be replaced. So, put a new recoil starter assembly and fit it in the proper position!

Activated The Choke In Warm Weather

Many chainsaw models have a choke which you can use in the cold weather to start your chainsaw. It helps improve the air-to-fuel richness in the carburetor, improving the fuel flow.

But, activating the choke in mild or warm weather can quickly flood the chainsaw engine. Also, this will happen if you turn on the choke to start the chainsaw while the chainsaw is warm and doesn’t need heat to get started.

So, when you operate the chainsaw on a warm day, check twice to ensure the choke is not activated. Also, remember that the chainsaw won’t start hot, so be careful!

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Deteriorated Fuel

Just like all other mechanical devices, the working of the chainsaw engine can be greatly affected by the quality and quantity of the fuel used in the chainsaw. So, when you are going to start the chainsaw, ensure that the chainsaw has enough amount of oil so that the chainsaw engine can run.

While adding the fuel to your chainsaw, don’t forget to check the composition of the fuel mixture. The chainsaw models require different fuel compositions, so keep that in mind. So, find what fuel-oil ratio you need to use, and check out the user’s manual.

For instance, you can use a mixture of oil and gasoline for most two-stroke chainsaw engines. It can provide enough lubrication. But, you must not use the boat or automotive oil. Also, please don’t use a mixture of methanol or ethanol with gas, as it can damage the chainsaw engine. It happened when you left the mixture in the fuel tank for a long time, and it became acidic.

Remember that if you store the chainsaw and leave excessive gasoline inside it before storage, it will deteriorate with time. That is why, before using it again, don’t forget to change the fuel. Also, cleaning up the chainsaw fuel tank would be far better.

But, even after cleaning the fuel tank and replacing the stale fuel with fresh, the chainsaw fails to operate; you may need to visit the chainsaw expert.

Pro Tip: You can add a stabilizer to the fuel or gasoline. It will stabilize the gasoline and slow down the breakdown of the fuel. Many fuels have stabilizers, so you can also check for them!

Check If Clutch Pads Are Damaged

Suppose the chainsaw engine has been started, but the chainsaw chain is not spinning in the chainsaw bar. So this happens when the clutch pads of chainsaws get damaged because of usage. The broken drum pads don’t engage the clutch drums responsible for turning the chainsaw chain.

Also, it could happen when you forget to activate the stop lever. So, when you are starting the chainsaw, make sure that you have disengaged the lever. But, if it is happening due to the damaged clutch assembly, do replace them or think about chainsaws repair!

Other Factors Not Letting Your Chainsaw To Start

So, if your chainsaw doesn’t have any of the issues mentioned above and is still chainsaw hard to start or is not starting at all; the following could be the possible reasons:

i. When You Hold The Throttle For a Long Time

Hold the throttle once to achieve the idle speed when the chainsaw starts. If the chainsaw sputter, inject more fuel into the engine once it is started. For this purpose, you can tap the throttle a few times. But, if you will hold the chainsaw longer, it can stop the chainsaw engine.

ii. Cold Weather Could Cause The Problem

If it is freezing outside or you don’t let the chainsaw run for some time, it can make the startups difficult. Therefore, the chainsaw faces difficulties or may not start in cold weather. Please find the choke and fill it in multiple times to help start the chainsaw!

iii. Stubborn Starter Of Your Chainsaw Could Be The Culprit

A few of the chainsaw models need more effort as compared to others. Remember that the large-sized chainsaw will need greater starter cord tension which demands more effort. Therefore, you must try a few times before assuming something wrong has happened to the chainsaw. It is because most STIHL chainsaws are equipped with an easy-to-start system, effectively reducing cord tension!

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What If Your Electric Chainsaw Doesn’t Start?

If you have trouble starting an electric chainsaw, how could you troubleshoot this problem? So, you will have to check for all the possible causes of your battery-powered or corded chainsaw not starting before you move to fix the problem.

  • Corded Chainsaw: If you have a corded chainsaw, please check if it is plugged into an outlet and if you have turned on the power. Also, ensure that both plug and cable are not damaged. If both of them are fine, the issue could be with the motor. Usually, the brushes of the motor get damaged easily; in that case, don’t forget to fix them.
  • Battery Powered Chainsaw: If you have been using a battery-operated chainsaw, ensure that you have fully charged the battery or there is any problem with the battery. If you plan to use the battery-powered chainsaw for a long time, don’t forget to get the power packs.

So, if you don’t find any issues now, you will have to visit the professionals and find out how to fix a chainsaw that is not starting!

Why Your STIHL Chainsaw Won’t Start?

For most homeowners, a chainsaw is a tool they don’t use every other day. Instead, many chainsaw owners store the tool for a very long time. In such cases, the fuel sitting in the tank causes serious problems, especially starting STIHL chainsaw.

The STIHL chainsaw won’t start if it doesn’t receive enough air or fuel or if the spark plug is dead. Besides, the dirty carburetor, bad spark, or faulty ignition coil could also cause this problem.

So, if you are looking for the exact reason because of why your STIHL chainsaw won’t start, here are the STIHL chainsaw starting problems you may be facing:

  • The fuel lasts for a short time and starts to break down. These days, many manufacturers add ethanol to gasoline to make it environment friends. But ethanol attracts moisture from the environment. The mixture of ethanol and water makes the stick material which can significantly affect the performance of your tool, and you may face issues while starting a STIHL chainsaw. So, you must either use the fuel as soon as possible or add a stabilizer.
  • Bad spark plug, damaged wires, faulty chainsaw wirings, and bad ignition coil or improper gap between the flywheel and ignition module are a few problems that would not let you start STIHL chainsaw.
  • Clogged fuel tanks, filters, loose fuel hoses, and air filters can cause problems during STIHL chainsaw startup!
  • When starting the chainsaw, ensure you have placed the on/off lever at the correct throttle. Otherwise, the chainsaw would not start.
  • Is your STIHL chainsaw hard to start? It can be due to the carburetor. The carburetor is an important part of the chainsaw; if it is clogged, you must remove it and clean it to let it function properly. In the case of the dirty carburetor, the chainsaw will not get the needed fuel or air.
  • Compression is necessary for the spark and fuel system to function efficiently. So, if the chainsaw won’t start, ensure the compression system is not causing the problem.

Do you need to learn how to start a STIHL chainsaw? Check out another article and ensure you follow the right STIHL chainsaw starting procedure!

Why your Husqvarna Chainsaw Won’t Start?

The chainsaw won’t start due to multiple issues. It can be pretty daunting for the newbies. So, if you are also facing the same situation, there is no need to get paranoid. Here is the list of Husqvarna chainsaw starting issues. Anyone can face and fails in starting a Husqvarna chainsaw:

  • The defective spark plug is at the top of the list. It is a common issue why a chainsaw won’t start. To check whether the chainsaw spark plug is defective, take it out from the chainsaw and inspect if it is damaged or clogged. It would be better to replace the chainsaw spark plug even if it is not damaged, as, after a few years, the efficiency of the chainsaw spark plug reduces exponentially!
  • The carburetor is second on the list, and you must check the chainsaw carburetor if you find the chainsaw spark plug fine and the problem persists. The carburetor can gets clogged when you leave the fuel inside the chainsaw. With time, the oil becomes thick, and the carburetor gets plugged in and doesn’t let the chainsaw get started. So, if this happens in your case, clean the chainsaw carburetor.
  • If the chainsaw doesn’t start even after cleaning the carburetor, the problem could be with the chainsaw ignition coil. You can test the chainsaw ignition coil with or without a Multimeter and find whether it is the culprit or not. The spark plug and coil work together and ignites the combustion of fuel. So, before testing the coil, ensure the spark plug works well. If you find the ignition coil faulty, you must replace it.
  • The recoil starter assembly is the other reason the chainsaw will not start. To inspect it, remove the starter and check it closely. If it is working properly, then you must check the recoil pulley. If you find the recoil pulley broken, replace it.
  • The fuel filter is a crucial part of the chainsaw, and a clogged filter would not let the chainsaw start. The chainsaw fuel filter gets clogged only when you leave the fuel inside the fuel tank for a long time.
  • If the fuel filter is fine, check the air filter. The air filter gets dirty due to sawdust and other dust particles. Resultantly, the chainsaw engine won’t start. Therefore, if you find the air filter clogged, replace it!

Why Won’t A Poulan Chainsaw Start?

The Poulan chainsaws are popular for their durability and power. But, even then, you may experience it while starting the chainsaw. Below are some of the reasons why your Poulan chainsaw won’t start:

  • The chainsaw will not start if there is any problem with the chainsaw’s spark plug. The spark plug provides the spark that generates the ignition. So, how could the chainsaw start if the spark plug is damaged? The spark plug has a porcelain insulator. Usually, that insulator gets damaged or cracked, preventing the chainsaw from starting. So, if this electrode is burned, change the spark plug for the successful starting of your chainsaw!
  • Fuel issues are pretty common and may not let your chainsaw get started. Therefore, it is one of the first things you must check. The old fuel usually goes bad, and if this has happened to you, empty the tank and add fresh fuel before you start the chainsaw again. Besides that, ensure that the fuel lines are not clogged; if they are dirt, replace them.
  • The ignition coil provides the spark plug, which starts the fuel combustion and the engine. The damaged ignition coil needs to be replaced, as it will not let you start the chainsaw. Before replacing the coil, ensure the spark plug is working well.
  • The chainsaw carburetor is responsible for mixing the fuel and air. The chainsaw will not start in case of the dirt carburetor and clogged fuel lines. Clean the dirty carburetor and replace it if the carburetor is damaged.
  • As you know, the recoil starter engages the crankshaft and starts the engine. If the recoil does not work correctly, it will not let the chainsaw start. Many things could cause recoil starter problems, including a broken spring, jammed ratchet, and defective recoil starter cord. So, replace the part causing the issues and resolve this problem.
  • The crankshaft is responsible for turning the piston, providing the needed power to the chainsaw engine. If the crankshaft is suspect, carefully inspect it. If the issues are not repairable, you can replace the entire part.
  • When you pull the starter cord, the rewind spring should wind up. It stores the energy, which is then used to start the chainsaw engine. If you find the spring has been damaged, you cannot start the engine. So, replace it and let the engine start working!
  • Engine seizures can occur due to so many reasons. For instance, overheating, lack of oil, or using the wrong type of oil could also cause problems. So, in case of a chainsaw engine seizure, you must visit a professional.
  • The muffler is responsible for reducing the noise. But, if the muffler is damaged or there is carbon deposition, you must clean or replace the muffler per your needs.
  • You can spray the oil onto the chainsaw air filter, as it is necessary to lubricate it. But, the oil build-up can clog the chainsaw air filter, which does not let the chainsaw start. Therefore, you must either clean or replace the chainsaw air filter. Also, clean the housing before you put in the new air filter!

How To Start A Chainsaw?

Do you know how to start a chain saw? If your answer is yes, why are you facing the issues while starting the chainsaw? It is because you are making a mistake while running your tool!

As you have learned all the factors that can cause the problem while you try to start the chainsaw, here is the right way to start the chainsaw. Remember that multiple things can go wrong even in the best quality models. But, if you have enough knowledge about how to start a chainsaw, you can avoid these serious problems.

So, here is how to start chainsaw. You can follow these steps to successfully start the chainsaw without facing any issues:

Step #1: Put Your Chainsaw On The Flat Surface

When you start the chainsaw, place your tool on a flat surface or ground. After that, remove its bar cover if you have not removed it yet.

Step #2: Activate The Chainsaw Brake Of Your Chainsaw

Next, activate the chains brake, which you can find at the top of the handle. To activate the brake, push it forward. It ensures the safe starting of a chainsaw this way, and the chainsaw chain will not rotate on the bar.

Step #3: Engage The Smart Start Decompressions Or Smart Start

Many chainsaw models have a feature called decompression control, while others have a Smart start. Well, both of these features help with the safe startup of your chainsaw. If your chainsaw has this feature, you have to push the decompression valve, and that’s it.

Step #4: Now, Press The Fuel Pump Of the Chainsaw

Also, many chainsaws are equipped with a fuel pump or may have a primer bulb. You can press the button a few times until you can see the fuel for an easy startup. This way, a few pulls will be needed to start your machines!

Step #5: Pull The Starter Cord

As the chainsaw is still on the ground, place your right foot on the rear handle and hold the top handle with your left hand. You must ensure that the cutting attachment will not contact the ground before pulling the starter rope. Always apply smooth and quick motions to pull the starter rope.

Step #6: Push The Throttle Halfway

Now, push the throttle of the chainsaw halfway and start pulling the chainsaw starter cord till your chainsaw starts running. Once the engine is powered, you can easily accelerate it to keep the chainsaw engine alive. You can also open the Master Lever to open the choke in case the engine dies after starting.

When the chainsaw has successfully started running, you can touch the throttle button again and reset the master control at the normal setting!

Understanding The Basics Mechanics Of Your Chainsaw

It is far better to find out what the basic mechanics of chainsaw are working to understand what is not letting your chainsaw start. Though the chainsaw models are different from each other, they operate on the same principle!

Regardless of the type of chainsaw you have, remember that all chainsaws have an engine. They have a blade made from sharp steel alloy built within the chain for cutting. Inside the chainsaw motor, you can find the gear wheels, which turn the chainsaw chain, and the motor lets the chainsaw chain move along the guide bar as you cut through the trees.

Inside the engine, a piston moves in and out of the cylinder. While doing so, the piston pushes on the connecting rod, which turns the crankshaft gear resultantly and lets the chainsaw chain spin around the guide bar.

The fuel from the chainsaw’s gas tank gets mixed with the air via the carburetor and is passed through the cylinder. The spark plug ignites the fuel. As a result, the engine gets the energy and helps you fall into the trees.

Understanding how a chainsaw works can help diagnose the problem that won’t let the chainsaw start. Several problems can arise when you use machines, but knowing the basics can greatly help you save money!

Chainsaw Maintenance: Tips From The Professionals

The chainsaw is composed of different parts like other machines. But, most chainsaw owners don’t care about their tools, believing they can work efficiently for a long time because of their built quality. Unfortunately, because of their ignorance, the chainsaw operators lose their tools like any other machine, chainsaw needs to be checked regularly.

Remember that cleaning the necessary areas of the chainsaw can significantly prevent the common problems a chainsaw may face. If you don’t know how to take care of your tool, here are a few tips for you from our experts:

i. Cleaning The Chainsaw Filter

The chainsaw has three different types of filters, including the air filter, foam filter, and fuel filter. These filters can get clogged over time and use. Therefore, to maintain the chainsaw, you must clean them all. Or, you can think of a replacement if they are damaged. It is so because if any of these filters get clogged, it can cause serious problems starting the chainsaw!

ii. Fuel Tank Maintenance is Crucial

The chainsaw owners are habitual in leaving the fuel inside the fuel tank, which sometimes becomes problematic for the chainsaw owners. The fuel gets, leaving behind a sticky material that can clog the chainsaw carburetor and filters.

If you plan to store the chainsaw for a couple of months, it would be far better to store it after draining the fuel. Or, if that is impossible, you must add the fuel stabilizer!

iii. Taking Care Of Chainsaw Chain And Chainsaw Chain Brake

If you have planned to use the chainsaw for the coming months, it is far better to take care of its chain and chain brake. Lubrication, sharpening, and chain tension adjustment are key in chainsaw maintenance.

While working with a chainsaw, you can easily find whether it is sharp or dull. When you feel that the chainsaw chain is dull, you must sharpen the chainsaw chain. Also, the chainsaw chain needs lubrication. The frequent lubrication lets the chainsaw chain run smoothly, providing efficient cutting power.

The experts recommend using eco-friendly lubricants which come with non-fling additives. Also, the lubricants must have a specific consistency so they cannot let the tree sap or debris get stuck with the chainsaw chain.

Pro Tip: For the chainsaw’s maintenance, it is efficient working, and its long life, the user manual can greatly help you. So, you must get through it, as the manual can provide you with the needed information about every part of the chainsaw!

DIY Safety Tips For Troubleshooting The Chainsaw Starting Problems

If your chainsaw is not starting, there are multiple ways to troubleshoot the problem before you visit the professional. But, while fixing chainsaws issues, you need to practice extra caution. Always hold the chainsaw firmly from the handle of the chainsaw. It will keep you safe in case of the chainsaw starts accidentally.

Removing the spark plug and battery cables is always better for chain saw repair or chainsaw service. In this way, you ensure that the chainsaw will not start while you are working on the chainsaw. To be on the safer side, always wear glasses and safety gloves!

Why Won’t My Chainsaw Start: Frequently Asked Questions

What Causes My Chainsaw Not To Start?

If your chainsaw is not starting, it could be due to the defective sparkplug. The faulty spark plug cannot create the needed spark to ignite the system. So, remove the spark plug of the chainsaw, and inspect it. If the spark plug is defective, change it, and if there is carbon build-up, you must clean it up!

Is there any trick to start the chainsaw?

Pull the pulling rope a few times. It will create an impulse line that pumps the air into the carburetor along, and a little fuel also goes through.

Why My Chainsaw Don’t Stay Running?

Many factors won’t let your chainsaw stay running. For instance, a bad spark plug and a dirty air filter can stop the chainsaw from running. Besides that, the damaged carburetor or engine compression could be a reason for this problem.

Why Is My New Chainsaw Not Starting?

So, you just bought a new chainsaw and failed to start. It is disappointing, but worries not, we have highlighted the top causes because of why your chainsaw is not starting:

  • You have tried to start the chainsaw with the choke on.
  • It can happen as the chainsaw engine has been flooded.
  • The bad gas could be the culprit.
  • Also, many times the incorrect gas mixture causes this problem.
  • You may have disconnected the plug wire.
  • The chainsaw will not start if you don’t press the primer bulb
  • Air-locked fuel systems could be the culprit

How To Start A Chainsaw After Two Years?

The chainsaw won’t start after sitting, or you may have difficulty starting the chain after a long time. Therefore, when starting the chainsaw after a long sitting, don’t forget to check its carburetor, air filters, ignition coil, and fuel. All of them could be reasons for not starting the chainsaw engine. You can also visit a professional if you need to repair chainsaws!

How Many Pulls Does It Take to Starting The Chainsaw?

When the chainsaw choke is set on the off position, pull the crank cord of the engine. The chainsaw engine can start after 1 to 3 pulls. It would be best to try it without using the throttle control.

How Many Times Can You Prime The Chainsaw?

It would be best to press the prim bulb at least three to five times. After that bulb will get stiff, and you can see the fuel inside the prime chainsaw bulb. The prime bulb draws the fuel from the tank to the carburetor.

Will It be Safe To Spray The Carburetor Cleaner While The Chainsaw Is Running?

Yes, you can spray the cleaner around the chainsaw while the engine is running. It will remove the deposits from the throttle plate areas as well. Never spar the carburetor cleaner when the engine is off. Also, do not spray below the throttle plate.

What Is The Best Way To Clean The Chainsaw Carburetor With?

The WD-40 is the fastest carburetor cleaning agent. So, if you are looking for a carburetor cleaner, pick this one. It can clean out the chainsaw carburetor in a few minutes. You don’t need to dip or scrub the carburetor.

Final Words: Why Won’t My Chainsaw Start

For the enthusiast woodworkers who love and enjoy felling the trees and cutting the wood, a little issue with their chainsaw can ruin the whole day. The situation where the chainsaw does not get started or fails to run properly is unimaginable.

But, in the real world, chainsaws can go bad, or they may also not start! That is why, to prevent this from happening in your case, getting the answer to “why won’t my chainsaw start” is necessary! There is a long list of issues because your chainsaw fails to start. For instance, the suspects could be a dirty or clogged carburetor, air filter, spark plug, defective ignition coil, or flooded chainsaw engine. But the list doesn’t end here; you must also check the fuel, fuel tank, and filters!

Hopefully, all the solutions to these problems mentioned here will be helpful for you, and there will be no need to contact professionals or experts after following the tips provided here!

Why Your Makita Chainsaw Won’t Start – DIY Troubleshooting Guide

Have you ever been in a position where your Makita chainsaw won’t start? It is so frustrating and causes setbacks in your project schedule. This problem is not limited to used chainsaws; it could happen even if you have a new chainsaw.

Faulty components like the spark plugs and ignition coil can stop your Chainsaw from working. Also, the same problem can lead to dirty air filters, clogged carburetors, and a flooded engine.

In this article, we will discuss why your Makita Chainsaw won’t start and how to troubleshoot it.

How to Start a Makita Chainsaw

often than not, many loggers complain of their Chainsaws not running because they are doing something wrong. Hence the need to know how to start the Makita chainsaw correctly. To start the Chainsaw correctly, follow the steps listed below:

  • Remove the covering on the bar
  • Place Chainsaw on a firm foundation (the ground or flat surface is most suitable)
  • Push the chain brake forward to activate it (close to the top handle)
  • Engage the decompression control (if available)
  • Press the primer bulb several times (if available)
  • Pull starter rope using smooth and quick motions (Makita Featherlight technology provides an easy start-up)
  • Push throttle halfway until saw starts running.

Note: If the Chainsaw starts up and dies immediately, you need to move the Master Lever.

‘I followed these steps, and my gas-powered Makita chainsaw won’t start; what do I do?’. Read on to find out what could have gone wrong with your machine.

Common Reasons Why Your Makita Chainsaw Won’t Start, and How to Fix It

Usually, things go wrong even with machines, so you might not be doing anything wrong to prevent your machine from starting. If your Chainsaw still doesn’t start, you may need to check for malfunctioning or broken parts. Thankfully, you can replace the defective parts via your manufacturer or the local hardware store.

Typically, the recurring problems may not involve you replacing parts, and maybe you need to go on some DIY adventure. Your gas-powered Makita Chainsaw will stop working if any of the following is the situation.

Defective Ignition Coil

This coil is responsible for sending voltage to the sparkplug. In cases where your spark plug is in good condition and your Chainsaw still wouldn’t start, then you should suspect your ignition coil. To further confirm your suspicion;

  • Check the health of your ignition coil with an ignition coil tester
  • If faulty, replace the coil

Stale Gas

Everyone checks the gas level when Chainsaw stops running, but very few consider the state of the gas. Stale gas without moisture content affects the ignition of your engine. It is highly recommended that you replace gas in your tank with a fresh mixture when it is over one month.

Another consideration here is the type of fuel your Makita chainsaw uses; if 2-stroke, then you will need a mixture of gasoline and oil for adequate engine lubrication.

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Spark Plugs

Without a spark within the spark plug, nothing happens. The spark plug is responsible for igniting combustion within the engine, making it wear out over time. To fix a faulty plug here’s what you can do;

  • Remove the plug
  • Use a plug wire to touch the metallic part and see if it gives off a spark
  • If it doesn’t, clean it using a wire brush
  • Remove the corrosion and repeat step 2
  • If the problem persists, you need to replace the component entirely

Dirty Air Filters

A clogged or dirty air filter increases the carbon deposits in the engine by drawing in more gas than fresh air. It would help if you practiced removing your air filter every five hours and cleaning it thoroughly with soapy water before replacing it again.

Flooded Engine

We gave a heads-up about using your primer bulb to start your engine earlier, but your Chainsaw will not start when you overdo it. How, then, do you solve this problem? When you smell fuel from your Chainsaw or detect moisture in the spark plug, do the following:

  • Remove the spark plug from its position
  • Deactivate choke by pushing back its control
  • Pull the starter cord about eight times as you press throttle control
  • Dry off plug and refit before restarting the Chainsaw

Recoil Starter

In the recoil starter, you have a pulley and the rewind spring. Once any of these components go bad, it affects your ability to start your engine correctly. The rewind springs roll back the starter rope after it has been released. If this does not happen, you cannot start your engine.

In this case, you replace only the rewind spring or the whole recoil assembly if the pulley is also faulty.

Blocked Carburetor

This is a follow-up problem when you have stale fuel in your tank; it eventually attracts dirt and clogs up the carburetor. To solve this, clean the carburetor and refit it, but if it has been affected beyond repair, you need to replace it.

Makita Chainsaw Service Caution for DIYers

Although several troubleshooting tips can help you, always take caution when trying them. Ensure to take out the plug or battery when performing these steps so that the machine does not start suddenly. Also, a safety glove and boot won’t be bad to protect your hands and feet from any sharp tool or object falling off your repair surface.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Why did my battery chainsaw stop working?

Fluctuating power source, low battery charge, clogged unit and motor problems can affect your battery chainsaw and eventually make it stop working.

What distinguishes the Makita chainsaw from others?

The presence of an automatic shut-off capability makes Makita different from other chainsaw brands. Besides, it saves battery power or gas and is one of the safest machines.

Is it possible to start a Makita chainsaw without using bar oil?

This is not the best practice because running your Chainsaw without the bar oil can result in hazards during work. One of which is sudden kickback or failure of the chain.

Conclusion

Ignorance of power tools can make you look unprofessional; you definitely won’t want that. Reading through our DIY troubleshooting guide is better than getting into such a situation. However, our article is all you need to solve your problem in such a condition.

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