what’s wrong with my chainsaw?

I inherited an old chainsaw-- didn't come with an instruction manual, or anything-- and I know next to nothing about chainsaws. It usually starts up very easily. Seems to idle normally, the chain moves around when you pull the trigger... but after it's been running for about a minute, the engine shuts off, or threatens to shut off, as soon as I actually cut anything with it. If I release the trigger and let it idle again, it won't shut off, but if i keep trying to cut with it for more than a couple seconds at a time... poof, it stops. Anyone know what this is a symptom of? and how to solve it? any advice would be appreciated. thanx.

Comments

4 Responses to “what’s wrong with my chainsaw?”
  1. Carl says:
    July 25, 2010 at 2:24 am

    Adjust the carburetor.
    Start it up and with it at idle adjust the "L" low speed jet. Turn it one way until it starts to stall. Then turn it the other way until it starts to stall. Then place it between the two stall points.

    Then adjust the "H" high speed jet. This one is a little harder to get right. You want it as rich "Counter clockwise" as you can get it but still have power in the cut. If you lack power in the cut lean it out clockwise but not to far or you will lack lubrication and it can run hot.

    Adjusting the carburetor is not rocket science. It sound like it’s actually too rich in fuel if it runs but dies in the cut. First adjust the low speed jet like I said to make sure its right. It’s really easy to do. Then if it still has the problem crank the high speed jet in just a little and see if you pick up more power.

  2. The Wizard. says:
    July 25, 2010 at 2:24 am

    I wouldn’t mess around with it,I’d take it into a chainsaw shop and ask them.Look up in your Yellow Pages.

  3. Grama Gee says:
    July 25, 2010 at 2:24 am

    CR Finn….I would suggest since you have NO EXPERIENCE or knowledge of chainsaws, that you DO NOT try and trouble shoot what is wrong with your inherited chainsaw….ok? Thats not something that you should be messing with…Chainsaws are very UNforgiving if handled wrong….Go to a shop and have them check it out and tune it up and replace old parts,,,check the chain for wear and have it sharpened,..They will do it all for you…THEN get some one (maybe a friend that has used one before) show you how to use it properly and what NOT to do…ok? Get a little professional lesson before going out and trying to cut with it..Make sure it is a reputable shop..Ask around….Wouldn’t want to see you get hurt…Hope this helps…..Good Luck…..

  4. Hondu says:
    July 25, 2010 at 2:24 am

    Yes, it is a symptom of fuel starvation. The chances are if the saw has been sitting for awhile, the carburetor jets have a varnish build up that needs to be cleaned out. When you put the engine under load it just isn’t getting enough fuel. Adjusting (if they are even adjustable) the jets will be a temporary fix at best. I would get a good carburetor cleaning and adjustment done by a shop. If you start cranking on the adjustment needles without prior knowledge you stand a very good chance of making it run worse, and an equal chance of burning the engine down from lack of lubrication.


 
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