CS 590 Won’t Start: Fixes for Echo Saws (5 Pro Tips)

Ah, the joys of spring! Or, not so much for me. As someone with tree pollen allergies that rival a lumberjack’s sawdust pile, this time of year usually involves more sneezing than sawing. But even I can’t deny the call of the woods when the weather warms up. And that call often involves the trusty Echo CS 590 chainsaw.

Like many of you, I’ve come to rely on my CS 590 for everything from felling small trees to bucking firewood. It’s a workhorse. But sometimes, even the most dependable tools throw a wrench in the works. There’s nothing more frustrating than pulling the starter cord over and over, only to be met with silence. A chainsaw that refuses to start is a real buzzkill, especially when you’ve got a stack of logs waiting to be processed.

So, what do you do when your Echo CS 590 refuses to roar to life? Don’t despair! More often than not, the solution is simpler than you think. Over the years, I’ve faced my fair share of chainsaw starting problems, from flooded engines to clogged fuel lines. And I’ve learned a thing or two about troubleshooting and fixing them.

In this article, I’m going to share 5 pro tips to help you diagnose and fix a CS 590 that won’t start. We’ll delve into the most common culprits, provide step-by-step instructions, and offer some preventative maintenance tips to keep your chainsaw running smoothly for years to come. And, of course, because I know what you’re really interested in, we’ll talk about the costs involved in keeping your saw running and efficient. Because let’s face it, a chainsaw is an investment, and we need to protect that investment to get the best return.

CS 590 Won’t Start: Fixes for Echo Saws (5 Pro Tips)

1. The Fuel Factor: Is Your Gas Fresh?

Let’s start with the most common culprit: fuel. I can’t stress this enough – old fuel is the enemy of small engines. Gasoline degrades over time, especially when mixed with oil in a two-stroke engine. The volatile components evaporate, leaving behind a gummy residue that can clog carburetors and fuel lines.

My Story: I once spent an entire Saturday afternoon wrestling with a stubborn chainsaw, only to discover that the fuel I was using was over six months old. I felt like a complete idiot. Since then, I’ve always marked the date on my fuel cans.

The Problem:

• Stale Fuel: Gasoline starts to degrade after about 30 days, especially if it’s not stored properly. After 90 days, it’s generally considered unusable in small engines.
• Ethanol Issues: Most gasoline contains ethanol, which can absorb moisture from the air. This moisture can corrode engine components and cause fuel separation.
• Oil Separation: In two-stroke engines, the oil can separate from the gasoline over time, leading to insufficient lubrication and engine damage.

The Fix:

1. Drain the Old Fuel: Pour out any remaining fuel from the fuel tank. Dispose of it properly – don’t just dump it down the drain!
2. Mix Fresh Fuel: Use fresh, high-quality gasoline with a minimum octane rating of 89. Mix it with the correct ratio of two-stroke oil as specified in your CS 590’s owner’s manual (usually 50:1).
3. Fuel Stabilizer: Add a fuel stabilizer to the fuel mixture to help prevent degradation and keep the fuel system clean. I personally use Sta-Bil or Sea Foam.
4. Clean the Fuel Filter: Located inside the fuel tank, the fuel filter can become clogged with debris. Remove it and clean it with carburetor cleaner or replace it if necessary.

Cost Considerations:

• Fuel: Gasoline prices vary depending on your location. As of late 2024, expect to pay around $3.50 to $5.00 per gallon for premium gasoline.
• Two-Stroke Oil: A good quality two-stroke oil will cost around $10 to $20 per quart.
• Fuel Stabilizer: A bottle of fuel stabilizer costs around $5 to $15.
• Fuel Filter: A replacement fuel filter for a CS 590 costs around $5 to $10.

Data Point: According to the U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA), the average retail gasoline price in the U.S. was $3.80 per gallon in October 2024.

Pro Tip: Always store your fuel in a clean, airtight container in a cool, dry place. Avoid storing fuel in direct sunlight or near heat sources.

2. Spark Arrestor Screen: Is It Choked?

The spark arrestor screen is a small, often overlooked component that can cause big problems. This screen is designed to prevent sparks from exiting the exhaust, reducing the risk of fire. However, it can become clogged with carbon deposits over time, restricting exhaust flow and causing the engine to stall or not start at all.

My Experience: I was once helping a friend clear some brush on his property when his chainsaw suddenly died. We checked the fuel, the spark plug, everything seemed fine. Finally, I remembered the spark arrestor screen. Sure enough, it was completely clogged with carbon. A quick cleaning and the saw was back in action.

The Problem:

• Carbon Buildup: Over time, carbon deposits from the exhaust can accumulate on the spark arrestor screen, restricting exhaust flow.
• Restricted Exhaust: A clogged spark arrestor screen can cause the engine to overheat, lose power, and eventually stall. It can also make the chainsaw difficult or impossible to start.

The Fix:

1. Locate the Spark Arrestor: The spark arrestor screen is usually located on the muffler, at the exhaust outlet. Consult your CS 590’s owner’s manual for the exact location.
2. Remove the Screen: Use a screwdriver or pliers to remove the spark arrestor screen.
3. Clean the Screen: Use a wire brush or carburetor cleaner to remove any carbon deposits from the screen. You can also soak the screen in carburetor cleaner for a few minutes to loosen stubborn deposits.
4. Reinstall the Screen: Reinstall the spark arrestor screen and tighten the screws securely.

Cost Considerations:

• Wire Brush: A wire brush costs around $5 to $10.
• Carburetor Cleaner: A can of carburetor cleaner costs around $5 to $10.
• Replacement Spark Arrestor Screen: A replacement spark arrestor screen for a CS 590 costs around $5 to $15.

Data Point: According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), outdoor equipment, including chainsaws, is a significant cause of wildfires each year. Maintaining a clean spark arrestor screen is crucial for preventing fires.

Pro Tip: Clean the spark arrestor screen every 25 hours of operation, or more frequently if you notice a loss of power or the engine is running rough.

3. Spark Plug Check: Is It Delivering the Spark?

The spark plug is responsible for igniting the fuel-air mixture in the engine. If the spark plug is fouled, cracked, or otherwise damaged, it may not produce a strong enough spark to start the engine.

Personal Anecdote: I was once troubleshooting a chainsaw that wouldn’t start for hours. I checked everything – fuel, air filter, carburetor – and nothing seemed to be the problem. Finally, on a whim, I decided to replace the spark plug. To my surprise, that was the issue. The old spark plug looked fine at first glance, but it had a hairline crack that was preventing it from firing properly.

The Problem:

• Fouled Spark Plug: A spark plug can become fouled with carbon deposits, oil, or fuel, preventing it from firing properly.
• Cracked or Damaged Spark Plug: A cracked or damaged spark plug can also prevent it from firing properly.
• Incorrect Gap: The spark plug gap must be set to the correct specification for the engine to run properly.

The Fix:

1. Remove the Spark Plug: Use a spark plug wrench to remove the spark plug from the engine.
2. Inspect the Spark Plug: Examine the spark plug for signs of fouling, cracking, or damage.
3. Clean the Spark Plug: If the spark plug is fouled, clean it with a wire brush or spark plug cleaner.
4. Check the Gap: Use a spark plug gap tool to check the gap between the electrodes. The correct gap for a CS 590 is typically 0.020 to 0.025 inches. Adjust the gap if necessary.
5. Replace the Spark Plug: If the spark plug is cracked, damaged, or excessively worn, replace it with a new one.
6. Reinstall the Spark Plug: Reinstall the spark plug and tighten it to the manufacturer’s specifications.

Cost Considerations:

• Spark Plug Wrench: A spark plug wrench costs around $5 to $10.
• Spark Plug Cleaner: A can of spark plug cleaner costs around $5 to $10.
• Spark Plug Gap Tool: A spark plug gap tool costs around $3 to $5.
• Replacement Spark Plug: A replacement spark plug for a CS 590 costs around $5 to $10.

Data Point: According to NGK Spark Plugs, a leading manufacturer of spark plugs, a worn or fouled spark plug can reduce fuel efficiency by up to 30%.

Pro Tip: Replace the spark plug every 100 hours of operation, or more frequently if you notice the engine is running rough or difficult to start.

4. Air Filter Inspection: Can Your Engine Breathe?

A clean air filter is essential for proper engine performance. A dirty or clogged air filter restricts airflow to the engine, causing it to run rich (too much fuel) and lose power. It can also make the chainsaw difficult or impossible to start.

My Blunder: I once ignored the air filter on my chainsaw for way too long. I was cutting some particularly dusty wood, and the filter became completely clogged. The chainsaw started running poorly, and I couldn’t figure out why. Finally, I checked the air filter and was horrified by what I saw. After cleaning it, the chainsaw ran like new again. Lesson learned!

The Problem:

• Dirt and Debris: Over time, the air filter can become clogged with dirt, dust, and debris, restricting airflow to the engine.
• Rich Running: A clogged air filter causes the engine to run rich, which can lead to carbon buildup on the spark plug and other engine components.
• Reduced Power: A clogged air filter can reduce engine power and fuel efficiency.

The Fix:

1. Locate the Air Filter: The air filter is usually located under a cover on top of the engine. Consult your CS 590’s owner’s manual for the exact location.
2. Remove the Air Filter: Remove the air filter from its housing.
3. Inspect the Air Filter: Examine the air filter for signs of dirt, dust, and debris.
4. Clean the Air Filter: If the air filter is made of foam, wash it with warm water and dish soap. Rinse it thoroughly and allow it to air dry completely. If the air filter is made of paper, tap it gently to remove loose dirt and debris. You can also use compressed air to blow out the filter from the inside out.
5. Replace the Air Filter: If the air filter is excessively dirty or damaged, replace it with a new one.
6. Reinstall the Air Filter: Reinstall the air filter and tighten the cover securely.

Cost Considerations:

• Dish Soap: A bottle of dish soap costs around $2 to $5.
• Compressed Air: A can of compressed air costs around $5 to $10.
• Replacement Air Filter: A replacement air filter for a CS 590 costs around $5 to $15.

Data Point: According to the U.S. Department of Energy, a dirty air filter can reduce fuel efficiency by up to 10%.

Pro Tip: Clean the air filter every 10 hours of operation, or more frequently if you are working in dusty conditions.

5. The Carburetor Conundrum: Is It Getting Fuel?

The carburetor is responsible for mixing air and fuel in the correct proportions for combustion. If the carburetor is clogged, damaged, or out of adjustment, it can prevent the engine from starting.

My Carburetor Nightmare: I once inherited an old chainsaw from my grandfather. It hadn’t been used in years, and the carburetor was completely gummed up with old fuel. I tried cleaning it myself, but I couldn’t get it to work properly. Eventually, I had to take it to a professional to have it rebuilt.

The Problem:

• Clogged Carburetor: The carburetor can become clogged with old fuel, dirt, and debris, preventing it from functioning properly.
• Damaged Carburetor: The carburetor can be damaged by corrosion, wear, or impact.
• Incorrect Adjustment: The carburetor must be adjusted properly for the engine to run smoothly.

The Fix:

1. Check for Fuel Flow: Disconnect the fuel line from the carburetor and check to see if fuel is flowing freely from the tank. If not, the fuel line may be clogged or the fuel filter may be blocked.
2. Clean the Carburetor: If fuel is flowing freely, the carburetor may be clogged. You can try cleaning it with carburetor cleaner. Remove the carburetor from the engine and disassemble it carefully. Spray all of the components with carburetor cleaner and use a small brush to remove any dirt or debris.
3. Rebuild the Carburetor: If cleaning the carburetor doesn’t solve the problem, you may need to rebuild it. A carburetor rebuild kit contains all of the necessary gaskets, seals, and jets to restore the carburetor to its original condition.
4. Adjust the Carburetor: Once the carburetor is clean and rebuilt, you will need to adjust it properly. Consult your CS 590’s owner’s manual for the correct adjustment procedure.

Cost Considerations:

• Carburetor Cleaner: A can of carburetor cleaner costs around $5 to $10.
• Carburetor Rebuild Kit: A carburetor rebuild kit for a CS 590 costs around $20 to $50.
• Professional Carburetor Rebuild: Having a professional rebuild your carburetor can cost anywhere from $50 to $150.
• New Carburetor: A new carburetor for a CS 590 costs around $50 to $150.

Data Point: According to Repair Clinic, a leading online retailer of appliance and outdoor power equipment parts, carburetor problems are one of the most common causes of small engine failure.

Pro Tip: If you are not comfortable working on carburetors, it is best to take your chainsaw to a qualified mechanic.

Budgeting for Wood Processing and Firewood Preparation

Now that we’ve covered the troubleshooting tips, let’s talk about the costs involved in wood processing and firewood preparation. This is where things can get really interesting, and where careful planning can save you a lot of money.

Understanding the Cost Factors

The cost of wood processing and firewood preparation can vary widely depending on a number of factors, including:

• Wood Type: Different wood species have different densities and burning characteristics, which affect their value as firewood. Hardwoods like oak and maple are generally more expensive than softwoods like pine and fir.
• Wood Quality: The quality of the wood also affects its value. Dry, seasoned wood is more valuable than green wood. Wood that is free from rot and insects is also more valuable.
• Location Accessibility: The accessibility of the wood source can also affect the cost. If you have to travel a long distance to get the wood, or if the wood is located in a difficult-to-reach area, the cost will be higher.
• Seasonality: The price of firewood can fluctuate depending on the season. Firewood is typically more expensive in the fall and winter, when demand is highest.
• Labor Costs: If you hire someone to help you with wood processing or firewood preparation, you will need to factor in labor costs.
• Tool Costs: The cost of tools and equipment can also be a significant factor. Chainsaws, wood splitters, axes, and other tools can be expensive to purchase and maintain.
• Permits and Fees: In some areas, you may need to obtain permits or pay fees to harvest wood.

Breaking Down the Costs

Let’s break down the costs into more detail:

• Timber Purchase or Harvesting Costs:
  • Purchasing Timber: If you are purchasing timber, the cost will depend on the species, quality, and quantity of wood. Timber prices can vary widely depending on your location and the current market conditions.
    • Data Point: According to the USDA Forest Service, the average stumpage price (the price paid for standing timber) for sawtimber in the United States was $330 per thousand board feet in 2023. This is just an average, and prices can vary significantly depending on the species and location.
  • Harvesting Timber: If you are harvesting timber yourself, you will need to factor in the cost of permits, equipment rental, and labor.
    • Permits: The cost of permits can vary depending on your location and the type of harvesting you are doing. Contact your local forestry agency for more information.
    • Equipment Rental: If you don’t own your own equipment, you will need to rent it. Chainsaws, skidders, and other logging equipment can be expensive to rent.
      • Data Point: According to Equipment Trader, the average daily rental rate for a skidder is $500 to $1,000.
    • Labor: If you hire a logging crew, you will need to pay them wages. Logging crew wages can vary depending on their experience and the type of work they are doing.
      • Data Point: According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median hourly wage for logging workers was $20.78 in May 2023.
• Tool Maintenance:
  • Chainsaw Maintenance: Chainsaw maintenance costs can include the cost of fuel, oil, spark plugs, air filters, and sharpening chains.
    • Fuel and Oil: As we discussed earlier, the cost of fuel and oil can vary depending on your location.
    • Spark Plugs and Air Filters: Spark plugs and air filters should be replaced regularly to maintain optimal engine performance.
    • Sharpening Chains: Chainsaw chains need to be sharpened regularly to maintain their cutting efficiency. You can sharpen chains yourself with a chainsaw file, or you can take them to a professional.
      • Data Point: The cost of having a chainsaw chain sharpened by a professional typically ranges from $10 to $20.
  • Wood Splitter Maintenance: Wood splitter maintenance costs can include the cost of hydraulic fluid, filters, and spark plugs.
    • Hydraulic Fluid and Filters: Hydraulic fluid and filters should be replaced regularly to maintain optimal splitter performance.
    • Spark Plugs: If you have a gas-powered wood splitter, you will need to replace the spark plug regularly.
• Labor Wages:
  • Logging Crew Wages: As mentioned earlier, logging crew wages can vary depending on their experience and the type of work they are doing.
  • Firewood Handlers Wages: If you hire someone to help you with firewood preparation, you will need to pay them wages. Firewood handlers wages can vary depending on their experience and the type of work they are doing.
    • Data Point: The median hourly wage for general laborers and hand laborers was $17.17 in May 2023.
• Permits (If Applicable):
  • Harvesting Permits: As mentioned earlier, the cost of harvesting permits can vary depending on your location and the type of harvesting you are doing.
  • Burning Permits: In some areas, you may need to obtain a burning permit before you can burn firewood.
    • Data Point: The cost of a burning permit can range from free to $50 or more, depending on your location.

Industry Benchmarks and Statistical Data

Here are some current industry benchmarks and statistical data related to firewood:

• Average Price per Cord of Firewood: The average price per cord of firewood varies depending on your location, the species of wood, and the season.
  • Data Point: According to the International Energy Agency (IEA), the average price per cord of firewood in the United States was $250 in 2023. However, prices can range from $150 to $400 or more depending on your location and the type of wood.
• Fuelwood Market Rates: Fuelwood market rates can vary depending on the region.
  • Data Point: According to the USDA Forest Service, the fuelwood market in the Pacific Northwest is typically more competitive than in other regions of the United States.
• Drying Time Based on Moisture Content: The drying time for firewood depends on the species of wood, the size of the pieces, and the climate.

  • Formula: As a rule of thumb, firewood needs to dry for at least six months to reach a moisture content of 20% or less. The drying time can be estimated using the following formula:

    Drying Time (months) = (Initial Moisture Content - Target Moisture Content) / Drying Rate

    Where:

    • Initial Moisture Content is the moisture content of the wood when it is freshly cut.
    • Target Moisture Content is the desired moisture content of the firewood (typically 20% or less).
    • Drying Rate is the rate at which the wood loses moisture per month (this varies depending on the climate and the wood species).

Practical Tips for Cost Optimization

Here are some practical tips for cost optimization:

• Source Wood Locally: Sourcing wood locally can save you money on transportation costs.
• Harvest Wood Yourself: Harvesting wood yourself can save you money on timber purchase costs.
• Buy Wood in Bulk: Buying wood in bulk can often save you money per cord.
• Season Wood Properly: Seasoning wood properly can increase its value and reduce the amount of fuel you need to burn.
• Maintain Your Equipment: Maintaining your equipment properly can extend its lifespan and reduce the cost of repairs.
• Shop Around for Prices: Shop around for prices on firewood and equipment to get the best deals.
• Consider Alternative Fuels: Consider using alternative fuels, such as wood pellets or propane, if they are more cost-effective in your area.

Calculations and Formulas

Here are some relevant calculations and formulas:

• Calculating Volume of Logs in Board Feet: The volume of a log in board feet can be estimated using the Doyle Log Rule:

  Board Feet = (Diameter - 4)^2 * Length / 16

  Where:

  • Diameter is the diameter of the log in inches.
  • Length is the length of the log in feet.
  • Calculating Volume of Logs in Cords: A cord of firewood is a stack of wood that measures 4 feet high, 4 feet wide, and 8 feet long. The volume of a cord of wood is 128 cubic feet.
  • Formula: Cords = (Length x Width x Height) / 128
  • Estimating Drying Time Based on Moisture Content: As mentioned earlier, the drying time for firewood can be estimated using the following formula:

  Drying Time (months) = (Initial Moisture Content - Target Moisture Content) / Drying Rate

Case Studies on Budgeting and Cost Management

Let’s look at a couple of case studies:

• Case Study 1: Small-Scale Logger
  • A small-scale logger in Oregon harvests timber from his own property. He uses a chainsaw and a skidder to harvest the timber, and he sells the logs to a local sawmill. His costs include the cost of permits, fuel, oil, chainsaw maintenance, skidder maintenance, and labor. By carefully managing his costs, he is able to make a profit of $50 per thousand board feet.
• Case Study 2: Firewood Supplier
  • A firewood supplier in Maine purchases wood from a local timber company. He uses a wood splitter to split the wood, and he sells the firewood to homeowners. His costs include the cost of wood, fuel, wood splitter maintenance, labor, and transportation. By sourcing wood locally and selling it at a competitive price, he is able to make a profit of $100 per cord.

Actionable Takeaways

So, what are the key takeaways from all of this?

• Fresh Fuel is King: Always use fresh fuel in your chainsaw.
• Maintain Your Equipment: Regular maintenance is essential for keeping your chainsaw running smoothly.
• Clean Your Air Filter and Spark Arrestor: A clean air filter and spark arrestor screen are essential for proper engine performance.
• Consider the Costs: Carefully consider all of the costs involved in wood processing and firewood preparation.
• Plan Ahead: Plan your wood processing and firewood preparation projects carefully to minimize costs.

Next Steps

If you’re planning a wood processing or firewood project, here are some next steps:

1. Assess Your Needs: Determine how much wood you need and what type of wood you want.
2. Source Your Wood: Decide whether you will purchase wood or harvest it yourself.
3. Gather Your Equipment: Make sure you have all of the necessary tools and equipment.
4. Create a Budget: Develop a detailed budget that includes all of your costs.
5. Get Started! Once you have a plan and a budget, it’s time to get started!

Final Thoughts

Dealing with a chainsaw that won’t start can be frustrating, but with a little troubleshooting and maintenance, you can usually get it running again. And by carefully planning your wood processing and firewood preparation projects, you can save money and get the job done efficiently. Remember, a well-maintained chainsaw and a well-thought-out budget are your best friends in the woods! Now, get out there and make some sawdust! And maybe, just maybe, I’ll be able to enjoy the spring without quite so much sneezing.

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