If you’re a pleased proprietor of a Stihl chainsaw, you may consider how to start it up accurately. Starting a chainsaw can be daunting, especially if you’ve never gotten it done.
The explanation for the inquiry is How to start a Stihl chainsaw and guarantee it moves along as expected. Thus, we should plunge into the means and rapidly prepare your Stihl chainsaw!
CHAINSAW CHECKLIST
Following this simple checklist, you can identify potential issues with your chainsaw and fix them before they become more significant problem. Here are some steps to follow:
Check the Air Filter: A dirty air filter can cause your chainsaw to run poorly or damage the engine.
Inspect the Chain: Check the chainsaw chain for any signs of wear and tear. Look for broken or damaged links and ensure the chain is sharp and properly tensioned. A loose chain can cause damage to both the chain and the chainsaw.
Check the Bar: Make sure the chainsaw bar is straight and free of cracks or damage.
Fuel and Oil: Check the fuel and oil levels in the chainsaw, and old fuel can cause the chainsaw to run poorly and damage the engine.
Check the Chain Brake: Make sure the chain brake is working correctly.
Clean the Chainsaw: Clean the chainsaw after each use.
STARTING YOUR CHAINSAW
1. COLD START
Check Oil levels: Ensure the fuel and oil levels in the chainsaw are correct. If the fuel is old, drain and refill it with fresh fuel.
Set the choke: Switch “on” the choke lever. This will restrict the air intake and increase the fuel mixture, making it easier to start the chainsaw in cold weather.
Prime the engine: Press the primer bulb several times until the fuel is moving in the clear fuel line, which will help the engine start more quickly.
Turn on the ignition switch: Move the ignition switch to the “on” position, which will supply power to the spark plug.
Pull the starter rope: Grasp the starter handle and pull the rope slowly until you feel resistance. Then, pull the rope quickly and firmly to start the engine.
Adjust the choke: As the engine starts to warm up, move the choke lever gradually to the “off.” position to allow more air into the engine.
Warm up the engine: Let the engine warm-up for a few minutes before using the chainsaw.
Starting a chainsaw in cold weather can be difficult, but following these steps can start a Stihl chainsaw and ensure it operates smoothly and effectively.
2. WARM START
Sure, I’ll explain how to start a Stihl chainsaw with a warm start.
Starting a chainsaw with a warm engine is relatively easier than starting a cold engine. Follow these simple steps to start a Stihl chainsaw with a warm engine:
Turn off the chainsaw: Before starting a warm Stihl chainsaw, ensure it is turned off and the chain brake is engaged.
Pull the choke: Locate the choke lever on the chainsaw, and pull it up to the closed position. If your chainsaw does not have a choke lever, skip this step.
Prime the engine: Pump the primer bulb several times until you see fuel in the bulb. If you don’t have a primer bulb, skip this step.
Pull the starter rope: Grasp the chainsaw firmly with your left hand and the starter rope with your right hand. Pull the rope firmly and quickly until the engine starts turning over.
Release the choke: Once the engine starts, release the choke lever.
Disengage the chain brake: Disengage the chain brake by pulling the lever back towards the handle.
Starting from a Sitting Position
Why it is hard to start a Stihl saw from a sitting position?
Stihl saws are designed to be started with a pull cord that requires a certain amount of force and speed to ignite the engine. Sitting down gives you less leverage and mobility to generate the necessary force and speed. This can result in the cord being pulled too slowly or too weakly, which can cause the engine to flood or stall.
How can you start a Stihl saw from a sitting position?
The knee and the ground are the two main methods to start a Stihl saw from a sitting position. Both methods require practice and caution, so follow your Stihl manual’s safety precautions and instructions before attempting them.
The knee method
The knee method involves placing the saw on your knee and using your arm to pull the cord. To do this, follow these steps:
- Sit on a stable, flat surface with your legs bent at 90 degrees.
- Hold the rear handle of the saw with your dominant hand and place the front handle on your opposite knee.
- Press the decompression valve if your saw has one.
- Pull the starter grip slowly until you feel resistance, then pull it quickly and firmly with your arm.
- Repeat until the engine starts, then move the master control lever to the run position.
The ground method
The ground method involves placing the saw on the ground and using your foot to hold it while pulling the cord. To do this, follow these steps:
- Place saw on the level and firm ground with the rear handle facing you.
- Hold the front handle with your dominant hand and put your foot on the rear handle.
- Press the decompression valve if your saw has one.
- Pull the starter grip slowly until you feel resistance, then pull it quickly and firmly with your arm.
- Repeat until the engine starts, then move the master control lever to the run position.
Starting on Uneven Ground
Starting a Stihl chainsaw on uneven ground can be tricky, but it can be done safely and effectively with the proper technique and precautions. Here’s how to start a Stihl chainsaw on uneven ground:
- Find a flat surface: Look for a flat surface nearby where you can safely place the chainsaw before starting it. Remove any debris or obstacles that could interfere with starting the chainsaw if possible.
- Secure the chainsaw: Place the chainsaw on a flat surface and secure it by engaging the chain brake. This will prevent the chain from moving while you’re starting the engine.
- Adjust the chain brake: Make sure the chain brake is fully engaged by pulling the front handle towards you until you hear a distinct click. This will lock the chain and ensure the chainsaw is safe to start.
- Check the fuel level: Check the fuel level and add more fuel if necessary. Make sure the fuel is fresh and not stale.
- Turn on the ignition: Turn the switch to the “on” position. This will activate the spark plug and allow fuel to flow to the engine.
- Prime the engine: Press the primer bulb several times until you see fuel in the bulb. This will help the engine start more quickly.
- Set the choke: Set the choke by moving the lever to the “choke” position. This will help the engine start by providing a richer fuel mixture.
- Pull the starter rope: Pull the rope sharply and quickly with one hand on the top handle and the other on the starter rope.
- Warm up the engine: Once it starts, let it warm up for a few seconds before disengaging the choke. You should give the chainsaw a little gas to keep the engine running while it warms up.
- Disengage the chain brake: Once the engine is running smoothly, disengage the chain brake by pushing the front handle forward. This will allow the chain to move freely.
Tips and tricks
- Check the spark plug and air filter before starting the saw. A dirty or faulty spark plug or air filter can affect the engine’s performance and make it harder to start.
- Use fresh fuel and oil that are compatible with your saw model. Old or improper fuel and oil can cause damage to the engine and make it harder to start.
- Avoid flooding the engine by pulling the cord too many times without starting. If you suspect the engine is flooded, move the master control lever to the run position and pull the cord several times without pressing the decompression valve. This will help clear out excess fuel from the cylinder.
- Wear protective gear such as gloves, boots, goggles, ear plugs, and helmets when using a Stihl saw. This will prevent injuries from flying debris, noise, or accidental contact with the chain.