Barrette's Small Engines Inc. - SmallEngines.ca FAQ's

Why won't my chain saw start?

There are several things that would cause an engine not to start. The following are a few items that you can check.

Make sure the on/off switch is in the on position (I).

Make sure that you are using a fresh fuel mixture mixed at the proper ratio. DO NOT store and use fuel mixture from previous seasons.

IF YOU SMELL FUEL AFTER TRYING TO START THE UNIT: If you smell fuel, the unit is most likely flooded. Go to "How to start a flooded engine".

Check the air filter and fuel filter .

A fouled or incorrectly gapped spark plug will also cause an engine not to start. Remove your spark plug and clean the electrode with a small wire brush.If the spark plug electrode is wet fouled with gasoline, replace with a new plug. The gap should be set at .025".

If the weather is hot, and the saw will not start after sitting for 15-30 minutes, the carburetor could be vapor locked, which is caused by hot gas evaporating in the carburetor and preventing the correct amount of gasoline mixture from reaching the carburetor.Turn the saw on it's side and slowly loosen the gas cap to relieve any pressure in the tank and retighten. Push the primer bulb several times until the bulb fills with fuel.The saw should now start. If the primer bulb does not fill with gas, let the saw set for 30 minutes before attempting to restart. A major cause of this condition is using stored gas, that was purchased in winter, on a hot day.

If after checking the above causes the unit still will not start, it would be best to have an authorized service center check the unit over.

« View more Questions...?