Bolens BL110 Won’t Start? (5 Pro Fixes for Quick Woodcutting)

The crisp autumn air bites at my cheeks as I stand beside my trusty Bolens BL110 chainsaw. The woodpile is dwindling, the nights are getting longer, and the fireplace is calling. But the saw, usually a reliable workhorse, stubbornly refuses to roar to life. That familiar sinking feeling – the frustration of a tool that won’t cooperate when you need it most – is all too familiar to anyone who works with wood. Over the years, I’ve learned that a balky chainsaw is rarely a terminal problem. More often than not, it’s a simple fix, a matter of understanding the machine’s basic needs and knowing where to look for the trouble.

This isn’t just about getting a chainsaw running. It’s about self-reliance, about the satisfaction of troubleshooting and fixing a problem yourself, and about the quiet confidence that comes from understanding the tools that help us connect with the natural world. So, let’s dive in. I’m going to walk you through the most common reasons why your Bolens BL110 might be refusing to start, and I’ll give you five proven fixes to get you back to woodcutting in no time.

Bolens BL110 Won’t Start? 5 Pro Fixes for Quick Woodcutting

Before we get started, let’s be clear: safety is paramount. Always disconnect the spark plug wire before working on any part of the engine. Wear gloves to protect your hands, and eye protection to keep debris out of your eyes. And if you’re uncomfortable with any of these procedures, take your chainsaw to a qualified repair technician.

1. Fuel System Check: Is Your Fuel Fresh and Flowing?

The fuel system is the lifeblood of your chainsaw. Bad fuel, a clogged filter, or a malfunctioning carburetor can all prevent your saw from starting.

• The Problem: Old, stale fuel is the most common culprit. Gasoline degrades over time, especially when mixed with oil (as it is in a two-stroke engine). This degradation leads to varnish and gum deposits that can clog fuel lines, filters, and carburetor jets. Additionally, water can condense in the fuel tank, further compromising the fuel’s ability to ignite.

• The Fix:

  • Step 1: Drain the Old Fuel. Carefully drain the fuel tank into an approved container. Dispose of the old fuel properly at a hazardous waste disposal facility. Don’t just dump it in the yard!
  • Step 2: Inspect and Clean the Fuel Tank. Look inside the fuel tank for debris or sediment. If you see anything, rinse the tank with fresh fuel. A small amount of clean fuel can be swished around inside the tank and then poured out to help dislodge any loose particles.
  • Step 3: Replace the Fuel Filter. The fuel filter is usually located inside the fuel tank, attached to the end of the fuel line. Use a small hook or a pair of long-nosed pliers to carefully pull the filter out. Examine the filter closely. If it’s dirty or clogged, replace it with a new one. Fuel filters are inexpensive and readily available at most chainsaw repair shops or online. I recommend keeping a few spares on hand.
  • Step 4: Check the Fuel Lines. Inspect the fuel lines for cracks, leaks, or kinks. Brittle fuel lines are a common problem, especially on older saws. If you find any damage, replace the fuel lines. Make sure you use fuel-resistant tubing that is the correct size for your Bolens BL110. You can usually find this information in the owner’s manual or online.
  • Step 5: Use Fresh Fuel. Mix fresh, high-quality gasoline with the correct ratio of two-stroke oil, as specified in your owner’s manual. Typically, this is a 50:1 ratio (50 parts gasoline to 1 part oil), but always double-check. I prefer to use premium gasoline (91 octane or higher) because it tends to have fewer additives and a longer shelf life. Always mix your fuel in a clean, dedicated fuel container. I write the date on the container after mixing so I know how old it is. Generally, I discard any mixed fuel that is older than 30 days.
  • Why it Works: Fresh fuel with the correct oil mixture provides the proper combustion characteristics for the engine to start and run smoothly. A clean fuel system ensures that the fuel can flow freely to the carburetor.
  • My Experience: I once spent an entire afternoon troubleshooting a chainsaw that wouldn’t start, only to discover that the fuel was the culprit. It looked fine at first glance, but it was over six months old. After draining the old fuel and replacing it with fresh fuel, the saw started on the first pull. Now, I make it a habit to always use fresh fuel and to discard any fuel that is older than a month.
  • Measurements & Specifications:
  • Fuel/Oil Ratio: Refer to your Bolens BL110 owner’s manual. Typically 50:1.
  • Fuel Filter Size: Varies by model. Check your parts diagram.
  • Fuel Line Diameter: Varies by model. Check your parts diagram.
  • Tool Specifications:
  • Small hook or long-nosed pliers for removing the fuel filter.
  • Approved fuel container.
  • Cost:
  • Fuel filter: $5 – $10
  • Fuel line (per foot): $2 – $5
  • Skill Level: Beginner

2. Spark Check: Is Your Spark Plug Delivering the Juice?

A healthy spark is essential for igniting the fuel-air mixture in the cylinder. A faulty spark plug, a damaged spark plug wire, or a bad ignition module can all prevent a spark.

• The Problem: Spark plugs can become fouled with carbon deposits, cracked, or simply worn out over time. The spark plug wire can become damaged or disconnected, preventing the spark from reaching the plug. The ignition module, which generates the high-voltage spark, can also fail.

• The Fix:

  • Step 1: Remove the Spark Plug. Locate the spark plug on the engine. It’s usually covered by a rubber boot. Carefully pull the boot off the spark plug. Use a spark plug wrench to unscrew the spark plug from the cylinder head.
  • Step 2: Inspect the Spark Plug. Examine the spark plug closely. Look for cracks in the porcelain insulator, excessive carbon buildup on the electrode, or a worn electrode. A healthy spark plug should have a clean, dry electrode.
  • Step 3: Clean or Replace the Spark Plug. If the spark plug is simply fouled with carbon deposits, you can try cleaning it with a wire brush or a spark plug cleaner. However, if the spark plug is cracked or worn, it should be replaced. Spark plugs are relatively inexpensive, so it’s often best to just replace it. Make sure you use the correct spark plug for your Bolens BL110. You can find this information in your owner’s manual or online.
  • Step 4: Check for Spark. With the spark plug removed from the cylinder head, reattach the spark plug wire to the spark plug. Hold the spark plug against a metal part of the engine (grounding it). Pull the starter cord. You should see a bright blue spark jump across the electrode gap. If you don’t see a spark, the problem is likely with the spark plug wire or the ignition module.
  • Step 5: Check the Spark Plug Wire. Inspect the spark plug wire for damage. Look for cracks, cuts, or loose connections. If you find any damage, replace the spark plug wire.
  • Step 6: Test the Ignition Module (if necessary). Testing the ignition module requires a multimeter and some knowledge of electrical circuits. If you’re not comfortable with this, it’s best to take your chainsaw to a qualified repair technician.
  • Why it Works: A clean, properly gapped spark plug delivers a strong spark that ignites the fuel-air mixture in the cylinder. A good spark plug wire ensures that the spark reaches the plug.
  • My Experience: I had a chainsaw that would start occasionally but would quickly die. After checking the fuel system, I turned my attention to the spark plug. It looked okay at first glance, but when I tested it for spark, it was weak and intermittent. I replaced the spark plug, and the saw ran like new.
  • Measurements & Specifications:
  • Spark Plug Gap: Refer to your Bolens BL110 owner’s manual. Typically 0.020″ – 0.030″.
  • Spark Plug Type: Refer to your Bolens BL110 owner’s manual.
  • Tool Specifications:
  • Spark plug wrench.
  • Spark plug gap tool.
  • Wire brush or spark plug cleaner (optional).
  • Multimeter (for testing the ignition module – optional).
  • Cost:
  • Spark plug: $5 – $10
  • Spark plug wire: $10 – $20
  • Skill Level: Beginner to Intermediate

3. Carburetor Clean-Up: Is Your Air-Fuel Mix Just Right?

The carburetor is responsible for mixing the air and fuel in the correct proportions for combustion. A dirty or clogged carburetor can disrupt this process, preventing the engine from starting.

• The Problem: Over time, varnish and gum deposits from old fuel can accumulate in the carburetor’s jets and passages, restricting the flow of fuel and air. This can lead to a lean fuel mixture (too much air, not enough fuel), which makes it difficult for the engine to start.

• The Fix:

  • Step 1: Locate the Carburetor. The carburetor is usually located on the side of the engine, near the air filter.
  • Step 2: Remove the Air Filter. Remove the air filter cover and take out the air filter.
  • Step 3: Inspect the Carburetor. Look for any obvious signs of dirt or damage.
  • Step 4: Clean the Carburetor (Simple Method). If the carburetor is only slightly dirty, you can try cleaning it without disassembling it. Spray carburetor cleaner into the carburetor’s air intake while pulling the starter cord. This may dislodge some of the deposits.
  • Step 5: Disassemble and Clean the Carburetor (Thorough Method). If the simple cleaning method doesn’t work, you’ll need to disassemble the carburetor for a more thorough cleaning. This is a more complex procedure, but it’s often necessary to get the carburetor working properly.
    • a. Remove the Carburetor: Carefully disconnect the fuel lines and any other connections to the carburetor. Remove the carburetor from the engine.
    • b. Disassemble the Carburetor: Carefully disassemble the carburetor, taking note of the location of all the parts. It’s a good idea to take pictures as you go, so you can remember how to put everything back together.
    • c. Clean the Carburetor Parts: Use carburetor cleaner to thoroughly clean all the carburetor parts, including the jets, passages, and needles. Use a small wire or a carburetor cleaning tool to clear any clogs in the jets.
    • d. Reassemble the Carburetor: Reassemble the carburetor, making sure all the parts are in the correct locations.
    • e. Reinstall the Carburetor: Reinstall the carburetor on the engine, reconnecting the fuel lines and any other connections.
  • Step 6: Adjust the Carburetor (if necessary). After cleaning or rebuilding the carburetor, you may need to adjust the carburetor settings to get the engine running properly. Refer to your owner’s manual for the proper carburetor adjustment procedure. Typically, this involves adjusting the high-speed and low-speed needles.
  • Why it Works: A clean carburetor ensures that the engine receives the correct air-fuel mixture for combustion.
  • My Experience: I once had a chainsaw that would start but would only run at high speed. After cleaning the carburetor, I discovered that one of the jets was completely clogged. After clearing the clog, the saw ran perfectly.
  • Measurements & Specifications:
  • Carburetor Adjustment Settings: Refer to your Bolens BL110 owner’s manual.
  • Tool Specifications:
  • Screwdrivers (various sizes).
  • Carburetor cleaner.
  • Carburetor cleaning tool or small wire.
  • Compressed air (optional).
  • Cost:
  • Carburetor cleaner: $5 – $10
  • Carburetor rebuild kit: $10 – $30
  • Skill Level: Intermediate to Advanced

4. Compression Check: Is Your Engine Sealing Properly?

Compression is the pressure created when the piston compresses the air-fuel mixture in the cylinder. Low compression can prevent the engine from starting.

• The Problem: Low compression can be caused by worn piston rings, a damaged cylinder, or leaky valves. These problems can allow the air-fuel mixture to escape from the cylinder, reducing the pressure and making it difficult for the engine to ignite.

• The Fix:

  • Step 1: Perform a Compression Test. A compression test is the best way to determine if your engine has low compression. You’ll need a compression tester for this test.
  • Step 2: Remove the Spark Plug. Remove the spark plug from the cylinder head.
  • Step 3: Insert the Compression Tester. Screw the compression tester into the spark plug hole.
  • Step 4: Pull the Starter Cord. Pull the starter cord several times, until the needle on the compression tester stops rising.
  • Step 5: Read the Compression. Read the compression reading on the compression tester. Compare this reading to the specification in your owner’s manual.
  • Step 6: Diagnose Low Compression. If the compression reading is below the specification, you’ll need to diagnose the cause of the low compression. This may involve inspecting the piston rings, cylinder, and valves. This is often a job for a qualified repair technician.
  • Why it Works: Proper compression is essential for creating the pressure needed to ignite the air-fuel mixture in the cylinder.
  • My Experience: I once had a chainsaw that was very difficult to start and lacked power. After performing a compression test, I discovered that the compression was very low. I took the saw to a repair technician, who found that the piston rings were worn. After replacing the piston rings, the saw ran like new.
  • Measurements & Specifications:
  • Compression Reading: Refer to your Bolens BL110 owner’s manual.
  • Tool Specifications:
  • Compression tester.
  • Spark plug wrench.
  • Cost:
  • Compression tester: $20 – $50
  • Piston ring replacement: $50 – $200 (depending on the extent of the repair)
  • Skill Level: Advanced (Diagnosis requires expertise)

5. Exhaust System Check: Is Your Saw Breathing Freely?

A blocked exhaust system can prevent the engine from starting by restricting the flow of exhaust gases.

• The Problem: The spark arrestor, a small screen in the muffler, can become clogged with carbon deposits over time. This can restrict the flow of exhaust gases, reducing engine power and making it difficult to start.

• The Fix:

  • Step 1: Locate the Muffler. The muffler is usually located on the side of the engine.
  • Step 2: Remove the Spark Arrestor. The spark arrestor is usually held in place by a screw or a clip. Remove the screw or clip and take out the spark arrestor.
  • Step 3: Clean the Spark Arrestor. Use a wire brush to clean the carbon deposits off the spark arrestor. You can also use carburetor cleaner to help loosen the deposits.
  • Step 4: Reinstall the Spark Arrestor. Reinstall the spark arrestor in the muffler, securing it with the screw or clip.
  • Step 5: Inspect the Muffler. While the spark arrestor is removed, inspect the muffler for any signs of damage or blockage. If you find any damage, replace the muffler.
  • Why it Works: A clean spark arrestor allows the exhaust gases to flow freely, improving engine performance and making it easier to start.
  • My Experience: I once had a chainsaw that was running poorly and had very little power. After checking the fuel system and the spark plug, I turned my attention to the exhaust system. I discovered that the spark arrestor was completely clogged with carbon deposits. After cleaning the spark arrestor, the saw ran much better.
  • Measurements & Specifications:
  • Spark Arrestor Screen Mesh Size: Varies by model.
  • Tool Specifications:
  • Screwdriver or pliers (depending on how the spark arrestor is held in place).
  • Wire brush.
  • Carburetor cleaner (optional).
  • Cost:
  • Spark arrestor: $5 – $15
  • Muffler: $20 – $50
  • Skill Level: Beginner

Additional Tips and Considerations:

• Air Filter: Don’t forget to check the air filter. A dirty air filter can restrict airflow to the carburetor, causing the engine to run poorly or not start at all. Clean or replace the air filter as needed. I typically clean mine every few uses and replace it annually.
• Primer Bulb: If your Bolens BL110 has a primer bulb, make sure it’s working properly. The primer bulb is used to pump fuel into the carburetor to help with starting. If the primer bulb is cracked or damaged, it may not be able to pump fuel effectively.
• Choke: Use the choke properly. The choke restricts airflow to the carburetor, creating a richer fuel mixture that is easier to ignite. Use the choke when starting a cold engine, but don’t leave it on for too long, as this can flood the engine.
• Flooding: If you’ve flooded the engine, remove the spark plug and pull the starter cord several times to clear the excess fuel from the cylinder. Then, reinstall the spark plug and try starting the engine again without using the choke.
• Long-Term Storage: If you’re storing your chainsaw for an extended period of time (e.g., over the winter), drain the fuel tank and run the engine until it stalls. This will prevent the fuel from gumming up the carburetor. You should also remove the spark plug and spray a small amount of fogging oil into the cylinder to protect it from rust.
• Regular Maintenance: The best way to prevent starting problems is to perform regular maintenance on your chainsaw. This includes cleaning or replacing the air filter, replacing the spark plug, and using fresh fuel. Refer to your owner’s manual for the recommended maintenance schedule.
• Safety Gear: Always wear appropriate safety gear when operating a chainsaw, including eye protection, hearing protection, gloves, and sturdy boots.
• Professional Help: If you’ve tried all of these fixes and your chainsaw still won’t start, it’s time to take it to a qualified repair technician. There may be a more serious problem that requires professional attention.

Case Study: Reviving a Neglected BL110

I once acquired a Bolens BL110 from a neighbor who was moving. It had been sitting in his shed for years, neglected and forgotten. Predictably, it wouldn’t start. I approached the problem systematically, following the steps outlined above.

1. Fuel System: The fuel tank was full of old, gummy fuel. I drained it, cleaned the tank, and replaced the fuel filter. The fuel lines were cracked and brittle, so I replaced them as well.
2. Spark Plug: The spark plug was heavily fouled with carbon deposits. I cleaned it with a wire brush and gapped it properly.
3. Carburetor: The carburetor was the biggest challenge. It was completely clogged with varnish and gum deposits. I disassembled it, cleaned all the parts thoroughly with carburetor cleaner, and reassembled it.
4. Exhaust System: The spark arrestor was completely blocked. I cleaned it with a wire brush.

After all this work, the chainsaw finally started! It ran a bit rough at first, but after a few minutes of running, it smoothed out and ran like a champ. This experience reinforced the importance of regular maintenance and the power of a systematic approach to troubleshooting.

Strategic Insights for Wood Processing and Firewood Preparation:

• Wood Selection: Choosing the right wood for firewood is crucial. Hardwoods like oak, maple, and ash burn longer and produce more heat than softwoods like pine and fir. However, softwoods are easier to start and can be useful for kindling.
  • Green Wood vs. Seasoned Wood: Green wood is freshly cut wood that has a high moisture content. Seasoned wood has been allowed to dry for several months, reducing its moisture content. Seasoned wood burns much more efficiently and produces less smoke.
  • Drying Methods: The best way to season wood is to stack it in a well-ventilated area, off the ground, and covered to protect it from rain and snow. The drying time will vary depending on the type of wood and the climate, but typically takes 6-12 months.
• Tools and Machinery: Investing in the right tools and machinery can significantly increase your efficiency and reduce the amount of physical labor involved in wood processing and firewood preparation.
  • Chainsaws: Choose a chainsaw that is appropriate for the size of the wood you’ll be cutting. A smaller chainsaw is fine for cutting small branches and limbs, but you’ll need a larger chainsaw for felling trees and cutting large logs.
  • Axes and Splitting Mauls: Axes are useful for felling small trees and limbing branches. Splitting mauls are designed for splitting firewood. Choose an axe or maul that is the right weight and size for your strength and experience level.
  • Log Splitters: Log splitters are hydraulic or electric-powered machines that split firewood. They can significantly reduce the amount of physical labor involved in splitting wood. Hydraulic log splitters are more powerful and can split larger logs than electric log splitters.
• Felling Techniques: Felling trees safely and efficiently requires knowledge of proper felling techniques. Always assess the tree for lean, wind direction, and potential hazards before felling it. Use proper cutting techniques to control the direction of the fall.
• Firewood Stacking: Stacking firewood properly is important for efficient drying and storage. Stack the wood in a well-ventilated area, off the ground, and covered to protect it from rain and snow.
• Safety First: Always prioritize safety when working with wood processing and firewood preparation equipment. Wear appropriate safety gear, follow the manufacturer’s instructions, and never work when you are tired or distracted.

Next Steps:

Now that you have a better understanding of why your Bolens BL110 might not be starting, and you’ve learned some proven fixes, it’s time to put this knowledge into practice. Start by systematically checking the fuel system, the spark plug, the carburetor, the compression, and the exhaust system. If you’re not comfortable with any of these procedures, don’t hesitate to take your chainsaw to a qualified repair technician.

Remember, wood processing and firewood preparation can be challenging but rewarding activities. By understanding the tools and techniques involved, you can safely and efficiently provide yourself with a sustainable source of heat for your home. And there’s nothing quite like the satisfaction of a warm fire on a cold winter night, fueled by wood that you harvested and prepared yourself.

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