Permatex Motoseal Tips (5 Expert Fixes For Chainsaw Cylinders)

It seems paradoxical, doesn’t it? To think that a simple sealant could be the key to breathing new life into a hardworking chainsaw cylinder. Yet, in my years of experience felling trees and wrestling with stubborn engines, I’ve learned that often the most unassuming solutions yield the most impressive results. Permatex MotoSeal, in particular, has been a game-changer for me, and I’m excited to share my expert tips on how to use it to fix common chainsaw cylinder issues.

Permatex MotoSeal Tips: 5 Expert Fixes for Chainsaw Cylinders

As someone who’s spent countless hours in the woods, relying on my chainsaw for everything from felling trees to clearing brush, I know firsthand how frustrating it can be when your saw starts acting up. A compromised cylinder can lead to all sorts of problems, from reduced power and poor starting to outright engine failure. That’s where Permatex MotoSeal comes in. I’ve found it to be a reliable and cost-effective solution for addressing minor cylinder issues and extending the life of my saws.

Understanding Chainsaw Cylinder Issues

Before diving into the fixes, let’s understand what kind of issues we’re addressing. Chainsaw cylinders are subjected to intense heat and pressure, and over time, this can lead to problems like:

Minor Air Leaks: These can occur around the cylinder base, intake manifold, or exhaust port. They disrupt the air-fuel mixture, causing the engine to run lean and lose power.
Gasket Failures: The gaskets that seal the cylinder to the crankcase and other components can degrade over time, leading to leaks and compression loss.
Surface Imperfections: Scratches or minor imperfections on the cylinder surface can compromise the seal between the piston and cylinder wall, reducing compression.
Port Sealing Issues: The ports in the cylinder (intake, exhaust, and transfer ports) need to be properly sealed to ensure efficient engine operation.
Cooling Fin Damage: While not directly a cylinder issue, damaged cooling fins can cause overheating and indirectly affect cylinder performance.

These problems, if left unaddressed, can snowball into more serious engine damage. That’s why it’s crucial to address them promptly.

Why MotoSeal?

Permatex MotoSeal is a non-hardening sealant that’s designed to withstand high temperatures and pressures. It’s resistant to gasoline, oil, and other common engine fluids, making it ideal for use in chainsaw engines. Here’s why I prefer it:

Flexibility: It remains flexible after curing, allowing it to accommodate slight movement and vibration without cracking or losing its seal.
Temperature Resistance: It can withstand temperatures up to 450°F (232°C), which is more than adequate for chainsaw engine applications.
Chemical Resistance: It’s resistant to gasoline, oil, coolant, and other common engine fluids.
Easy Application: It applies easily and smoothly, making it easy to create a reliable seal.
Cost-Effectiveness: It’s a relatively inexpensive solution compared to replacing gaskets or entire engine components.

My Personal Experience: I remember one time, I was deep in the woods, miles from anywhere, when my chainsaw started losing power. After a quick inspection, I discovered a small air leak around the cylinder base. Luckily, I had a tube of MotoSeal in my toolkit. I applied it to the affected area, let it cure for a few minutes, and the saw was back up and running. It saved me a long walk back to civilization and allowed me to finish the job.

Expert Tip 1: Sealing Minor Air Leaks Around the Cylinder Base

Air leaks around the cylinder base are a common problem, especially in older chainsaws. These leaks can disrupt the air-fuel mixture and cause the engine to run lean, leading to reduced power and potential engine damage.

Materials Needed:

Permatex MotoSeal
Clean rags
Carburetor cleaner or degreaser
Small brush (optional)

Step-by-Step Guide:

Preparation: Disconnect the spark plug wire to prevent accidental starting. Clean the area around the cylinder base with carburetor cleaner or degreaser to remove any dirt, oil, or debris. Use a small brush to scrub away any stubborn grime.
Application: Apply a thin, even layer of MotoSeal to the cylinder base, focusing on the area where the leak is suspected. Use a small brush or your finger to ensure that the sealant gets into all the nooks and crannies.
Curing: Allow the MotoSeal to cure for at least 30 minutes before starting the engine. For best results, let it cure overnight.
Testing: After the sealant has cured, reconnect the spark plug wire and start the engine. Listen for any signs of air leaks, such as hissing or whistling sounds. If the leak persists, you may need to apply another layer of sealant or consider replacing the cylinder base gasket.

Pro Tip: To help the MotoSeal adhere properly, I sometimes lightly score the surface of the cylinder base with a fine-grit sandpaper before applying the sealant. This creates a slightly rough surface that the sealant can grip onto.

Real-World Example: I once had a Stihl MS290 that was notoriously difficult to start. After trying everything else, I decided to check for air leaks around the cylinder base. Sure enough, I found a small gap. I applied MotoSeal as described above, and the saw started on the first pull.

Expected Outcome: This fix should eliminate minor air leaks around the cylinder base, improving engine performance and starting.

Expert Tip 2: Repairing Gasket Failures

Gaskets are used to seal the cylinder to the crankcase, intake manifold, and exhaust port. Over time, these gaskets can degrade and fail, leading to leaks and compression loss.

Materials Needed:

Permatex MotoSeal
New gaskets (if available)
Clean rags
Carburetor cleaner or degreaser
Torque wrench
Scraper (optional)

Step-by-Step Guide:

Disassembly: Disassemble the engine components to access the failed gasket. This may involve removing the cylinder, intake manifold, or exhaust port.
Cleaning: Clean the mating surfaces with carburetor cleaner or degreaser to remove any old gasket material, oil, or debris. Use a scraper to remove any stubborn gasket residue.
Application: If you have a new gasket, apply a thin layer of MotoSeal to both sides of the gasket before installing it. If you don’t have a new gasket, apply a thin layer of MotoSeal to both mating surfaces.
Reassembly: Reassemble the engine components, tightening the bolts to the manufacturer’s specified torque. Use a torque wrench to ensure that the bolts are tightened evenly and to the correct torque.
Curing: Allow the MotoSeal to cure for at least 30 minutes before starting the engine. For best results, let it cure overnight.
Testing: After the sealant has cured, start the engine and listen for any signs of leaks. If the leak persists, you may need to disassemble the engine again and reapply the sealant.

Pro Tip: When replacing gaskets, always use high-quality gaskets that are designed for your specific chainsaw model. Using cheap or generic gaskets can lead to premature failure and leaks.

Real-World Example: I had an old Husqvarna 372XP that was losing compression. After removing the cylinder, I found that the base gasket was cracked and brittle. I applied a thin layer of MotoSeal to both sides of a new gasket and reassembled the engine. The compression was restored, and the saw ran like new.

Expected Outcome: This fix should repair gasket failures, restoring compression and improving engine performance.

Expert Tip 3: Sealing Surface Imperfections on the Cylinder

Even minor scratches or imperfections on the cylinder surface can compromise the seal between the piston and cylinder wall, reducing compression.

Materials Needed:

Permatex MotoSeal
Clean rags
Carburetor cleaner or degreaser
Fine-grit sandpaper (optional)
Lint-free cloth

Step-by-Step Guide:

Preparation: Clean the cylinder surface with carburetor cleaner or degreaser to remove any oil, dirt, or debris. If necessary, use fine-grit sandpaper to lightly smooth out any rough edges or imperfections. Be careful not to remove too much material.
Application: Apply a very thin layer of MotoSeal to the cylinder surface, focusing on the area with the imperfections. Use a lint-free cloth to spread the sealant evenly and remove any excess.
Curing: Allow the MotoSeal to cure for at least 30 minutes before reassembling the engine. For best results, let it cure overnight.
Reassembly: Reassemble the engine components, being careful not to damage the sealed surface.
Testing: After the sealant has cured, start the engine and check for any signs of compression loss. If the compression is still low, you may need to consider more extensive repairs, such as honing or replacing the cylinder.

Pro Tip: When sealing surface imperfections, less is more. Applying too much sealant can actually worsen the problem by creating an uneven surface.

Real-World Example: I once had a chainsaw with a slightly scored cylinder wall. I applied a very thin layer of MotoSeal to the affected area, and it helped to improve the compression and reduce blow-by.

Expected Outcome: This fix can improve compression by sealing minor surface imperfections on the cylinder wall.

Expert Tip 4: Addressing Port Sealing Issues

The ports in the cylinder (intake, exhaust, and transfer ports) need to be properly sealed to ensure efficient engine operation. Leaks around these ports can lead to reduced power and poor performance.

Materials Needed:

Permatex MotoSeal
Clean rags
Carburetor cleaner or degreaser
Small brush
Pick or small screwdriver

Step-by-Step Guide:

Inspection: Carefully inspect the area around the ports for any signs of leaks or gaps. Use a pick or small screwdriver to gently probe the seals around the ports.
Cleaning: Clean the area around the ports with carburetor cleaner or degreaser to remove any oil, dirt, or debris. Use a small brush to scrub away any stubborn grime.
Application: Apply a thin layer of MotoSeal to the sealing surfaces around the ports. Use a small brush or your finger to ensure that the sealant gets into all the nooks and crannies.
Curing: Allow the MotoSeal to cure for at least 30 minutes before starting the engine. For best results, let it cure overnight.
Testing: After the sealant has cured, start the engine and listen for any signs of leaks. If the leak persists, you may need to disassemble the engine and reapply the sealant.

Pro Tip: When sealing ports, be careful not to get any sealant inside the port itself, as this can restrict airflow and reduce engine performance.

Real-World Example: I had a chainsaw that was running poorly and had a noticeable lack of power. After inspecting the ports, I found a small leak around the exhaust port. I applied MotoSeal as described above, and the saw’s performance improved significantly.

Expected Outcome: This fix should seal leaks around the ports, improving engine performance and power.

Expert Tip 5: Reinforcing Cooling Fin Attachment

While not directly a cylinder issue, damaged or loose cooling fins can cause overheating and indirectly affect cylinder performance. MotoSeal can be used to reinforce the attachment of cooling fins.

Materials Needed:

Permatex MotoSeal
Clean rags
Carburetor cleaner or degreaser

Step-by-Step Guide:

Inspection: Inspect the cooling fins for any signs of damage or looseness.
Cleaning: Clean the base of the cooling fins and the cylinder surface with carburetor cleaner or degreaser to remove any oil, dirt, or debris.
Application: Apply a small amount of MotoSeal to the base of the cooling fins where they attach to the cylinder.
Curing: Allow the MotoSeal to cure for at least 30 minutes before starting the engine. For best results, let it cure overnight.
Testing: After the sealant has cured, inspect the cooling fins to ensure that they are securely attached.

Pro Tip: Be careful not to apply too much sealant, as this can interfere with airflow and reduce cooling efficiency.

Real-World Example: I had a chainsaw with several loose cooling fins. I applied MotoSeal to the base of the fins, and it helped to secure them and prevent further damage.

Expected Outcome: This fix should reinforce the attachment of cooling fins, improving cooling efficiency and preventing overheating.

Important Considerations and Safety Precautions

While MotoSeal can be a valuable tool for repairing chainsaw cylinders, it’s important to use it properly and safely. Here are some important considerations and safety precautions:

Read the Manufacturer’s Instructions: Always read and follow the manufacturer’s instructions for using Permatex MotoSeal.
Work in a Well-Ventilated Area: MotoSeal can release fumes during application and curing, so it’s important to work in a well-ventilated area.
Wear Gloves: Wear gloves to protect your hands from the sealant.
Avoid Contact with Skin and Eyes: Avoid contact with skin and eyes. If contact occurs, flush with water immediately.
Keep Out of Reach of Children: Keep MotoSeal out of reach of children.
Don’t Over-Apply: Applying too much sealant can actually worsen the problem. Use a thin, even layer.
Allow Adequate Curing Time: Allow the sealant to cure for the recommended time before starting the engine.
Don’t Use on Major Damage: MotoSeal is not a substitute for proper repairs. If your cylinder has major damage, such as cracks or severe scoring, you should replace it.

Safety First: I always make sure to disconnect the spark plug before working on any chainsaw engine components. This prevents accidental starting and reduces the risk of injury.

Alternative Solutions

While MotoSeal can be effective for addressing minor cylinder issues, there are also alternative solutions to consider. These include:

Gasket Replacement: Replacing worn or damaged gaskets is often the best solution for sealing leaks.
Cylinder Honing: Honing the cylinder can help to remove minor scratches and imperfections and improve the seal between the piston and cylinder wall.
Cylinder Replacement: If the cylinder is severely damaged, it may need to be replaced.
Engine Rebuild: In some cases, a complete engine rebuild may be necessary to address all of the issues.

When to Seek Professional Help: If you’re not comfortable working on your chainsaw engine, or if the problem is beyond your skill level, it’s best to seek professional help from a qualified mechanic.

Conclusion: Extending the Life of Your Chainsaw with MotoSeal

Permatex MotoSeal can be a valuable tool for addressing minor cylinder issues and extending the life of your chainsaw. By following these expert tips and taking the necessary safety precautions, you can use MotoSeal to seal leaks, repair gasket failures, and improve engine performance. Remember, MotoSeal is not a substitute for proper repairs, but it can be a cost-effective solution for addressing minor problems.

My Final Thought: I’ve found that regular maintenance and prompt attention to minor issues can go a long way in preventing more serious problems down the road. By using MotoSeal and other preventative measures, you can keep your chainsaw running smoothly and efficiently for years to come.

Permatex Motoseal Tips (5 Expert Fixes for Chainsaw Cylinders)