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

Smart Homes and Chainsaws: A World Apart, But Both Need to Work

In today’s world, we’re surrounded by smart technology. Our homes are becoming increasingly connected, from smart thermostats that learn our heating preferences to voice-activated assistants that play our favorite music. We expect things to work seamlessly. So, when something doesn’t work, especially something we rely on like a chainsaw, it can be incredibly frustrating. Imagine the annoyance of your smart lights refusing to turn on – that’s comparable to the sinking feeling when your chainsaw won’t start, especially when you have a pile of wood waiting to be cut or a storm-damaged tree blocking your driveway.

While smart homes rely on intricate software and wireless connections, chainsaws depend on a well-tuned engine, proper fuel mixture, and a bit of old-fashioned mechanical know-how. Even though these two worlds seem miles apart, the underlying principle is the same: reliability is key. And when things go wrong, understanding the basics is crucial to getting things back on track.

I’ve spent countless hours in the woods, felling trees, processing firewood, and maintaining my own equipment. Over the years, I’ve learned a thing or two about troubleshooting stubborn chainsaws. The Echo CS-590 is a popular model known for its power and reliability, but like any piece of machinery, it can sometimes be temperamental. Let’s get your CS-590 back to work!

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

The Echo CS-590 Timber Wolf is a workhorse, but even the toughest tools can have off days. When yours refuses to fire up, don’t despair. Here are five pro tips, gleaned from years of experience, to diagnose and fix the problem.

1. Fuel System Check: The Lifeblood of Your Chainsaw

The fuel system is the heart of your chainsaw. If it’s not functioning correctly, your saw simply won’t start. This is always my first point of investigation.

Fuel Quality and Mixture

• The Problem: Old, stale fuel is the most common culprit. Gasoline degrades over time, especially when mixed with oil. Ethanol-blended fuels are particularly prone to absorbing moisture, leading to separation and gumming up the carburetor. An improper fuel-to-oil ratio can also cause starting problems and engine damage.
• The Fix:
  • Always use fresh fuel: I never use fuel older than 30 days in my chainsaw. For longer storage, I add a fuel stabilizer.
  • Use the correct fuel-to-oil ratio: The Echo CS-590 typically requires a 50:1 ratio (50 parts gasoline to 1 part two-stroke oil). Use a high-quality two-stroke oil specifically designed for air-cooled engines. Using the wrong ratio can cause serious engine damage.
    • Data Point: A study by the Outdoor Power Equipment Institute (OPEI) found that over 70% of small engine failures are related to fuel issues.
  • Drain and replace old fuel: If your fuel is old or suspect, drain it completely from the tank and fuel lines. Refill with fresh, properly mixed fuel.
  • Consider ethanol-free fuel: If available in your area, ethanol-free fuel is a great option for small engines. It avoids many of the problems associated with ethanol-blended fuels.
  • Personal Story: I once spent an entire afternoon troubleshooting a chainsaw that wouldn’t start, only to discover that the fuel was over six months old. Now, I always label my fuel cans with the date and discard any fuel that’s past its prime.

Fuel Filter Inspection

• The Problem: A clogged fuel filter restricts fuel flow to the carburetor, preventing the engine from starting.
• The Fix:
  • Locate the fuel filter: It’s usually inside the fuel tank, attached to the end of the fuel line.
  • Remove and inspect the filter: Carefully pull the fuel line out of the tank and detach the filter. Examine it for dirt, debris, or clogs.
  • Clean or replace the filter: If the filter is only slightly dirty, you can try cleaning it with carburetor cleaner. However, if it’s heavily clogged or damaged, it’s best to replace it. Fuel filters are inexpensive and readily available.
  • Reassemble: Reattach the fuel filter to the fuel line and carefully insert it back into the fuel tank. Ensure the fuel line is properly connected.

Fuel Line Check

• The Problem: Cracked, damaged, or disconnected fuel lines can cause air leaks, preventing the fuel from reaching the carburetor.
• The Fix:
  • Visually inspect the fuel lines: Check for cracks, leaks, or signs of damage. Pay close attention to the areas where the fuel lines connect to the fuel tank, carburetor, and fuel filter.
  • Check for proper connections: Ensure that all fuel lines are securely connected to their respective fittings.
  • Replace damaged fuel lines: If you find any damaged fuel lines, replace them immediately. Use fuel lines specifically designed for small engines.

2. Spark Check: Igniting the Fire

If the fuel system is working correctly, the next step is to check the spark. Without a spark, the fuel mixture won’t ignite, and your chainsaw won’t start.

Spark Plug Inspection

• The Problem: A fouled, damaged, or improperly gapped spark plug can prevent the engine from starting.
• The Fix:
  • Remove the spark plug: Disconnect the spark plug wire and use a spark plug wrench to remove the spark plug from the cylinder head.
  • Inspect the spark plug: Examine the spark plug for signs of fouling (carbon buildup), damage, or wear. The electrode should be clean and intact, and the insulator should be free of cracks.
  • Clean the spark plug: If the spark plug is only slightly fouled, you can try cleaning it with a wire brush or spark plug cleaner.
  • Gap the spark plug: Use a spark plug gapping tool to ensure that the gap between the electrode and the ground electrode is within the manufacturer’s specifications. The correct gap for the Echo CS-590 is typically around 0.025 inches (0.635 mm).
    • Data Point: An improperly gapped spark plug can reduce engine performance by up to 10%.
  • Replace the spark plug: If the spark plug is heavily fouled, damaged, or worn, it’s best to replace it. Spark plugs are relatively inexpensive and easy to replace.
  • Reinstall the spark plug: Reinstall the spark plug into the cylinder head and tighten it to the manufacturer’s specifications.
  • Personal Story: I once had a chainsaw that would start intermittently. After checking everything else, I finally decided to replace the spark plug, even though it looked okay. That solved the problem! Sometimes, a spark plug can be faulty even if it doesn’t show obvious signs of damage.

Spark Test

• The Problem: Even if the spark plug is in good condition, there may be a problem with the ignition system, preventing the spark plug from firing.
• The Fix:
  • Reattach the spark plug wire: Connect the spark plug wire to the spark plug.
  • Ground the spark plug: Hold the spark plug against the engine block or another metal part of the chainsaw to ground it.
  • Pull the starter cord: Pull the starter cord quickly and observe the spark plug. You should see a strong, blue spark jumping across the electrode gap.
  • No spark: If you don’t see a spark, there may be a problem with the ignition coil, the spark plug wire, or the kill switch.
  • Weak spark: A weak, yellow spark may indicate a problem with the ignition coil or a low battery (if your chainsaw has an electric start).

Ignition Coil Check

• The Problem: The ignition coil is responsible for generating the high-voltage electricity that creates the spark. If the ignition coil is faulty, it won’t produce a spark.
• The Fix:
  • Test the ignition coil with a multimeter: Use a multimeter to test the resistance of the ignition coil. The resistance should be within the manufacturer’s specifications.
  • Replace the ignition coil: If the ignition coil is faulty, it needs to be replaced. Ignition coils can be expensive, so it’s a good idea to test it before replacing it.

3. Compression Check: The Engine’s Power

Compression is essential for the engine to run. Without adequate compression, the fuel mixture won’t ignite properly.

Understanding Compression

• The Problem: Low compression can be caused by worn piston rings, a damaged cylinder, or a leaking valve (if your chainsaw has valves).
• The Fix:
  • Perform a compression test: Use a compression tester to measure the compression in the cylinder. The compression should be within the manufacturer’s specifications. For the Echo CS-590, you’re looking for a reading typically above 120 PSI.
  • No compression: If there is no compression, the engine is likely severely damaged and may need to be rebuilt or replaced.
  • Low compression: If the compression is low but not zero, you may be able to improve it by replacing the piston rings or repairing the cylinder.
  • Oil Test: If you suspect low compression, try adding a small amount of oil (a teaspoon or two) into the cylinder through the spark plug hole. Pull the starter cord a few times to distribute the oil, then re-test the compression. If the compression reading increases significantly after adding oil, it suggests that worn piston rings are the problem. The oil temporarily seals the gap between the piston rings and the cylinder wall, improving compression.

Cylinder Inspection

• The Problem: Scratches or damage inside the cylinder can lead to compression loss.
• The Fix:
  • Visual Inspection: Remove the muffler and spark plug. Use a flashlight to carefully inspect the cylinder walls through both openings. Look for any scoring, scratches, or signs of damage.
  • Professional Evaluation: If you notice significant damage, it’s best to have a professional mechanic evaluate the cylinder. Depending on the severity, the cylinder might need to be honed or replaced.

Exhaust Port Check

• The Problem: Carbon buildup in the exhaust port can restrict exhaust flow, leading to reduced power and starting problems.
• The Fix:
  • Remove the Muffler: Carefully remove the muffler from the chainsaw.
  • Inspect the Exhaust Port: Look into the exhaust port on the cylinder. Check for carbon buildup or obstructions.
  • Clean the Exhaust Port: Use a small tool (like a screwdriver or a specialized carbon scraper) to carefully remove any carbon buildup from the exhaust port. Be gentle to avoid damaging the cylinder.
  • Reassemble: Reattach the muffler securely.

4. Carburetor Check: The Air-Fuel Mixer

The carburetor mixes air and fuel in the correct proportions for combustion. If it’s clogged or improperly adjusted, your chainsaw won’t start or run properly.

Carburetor Cleaning

• The Problem: A clogged carburetor is a common cause of starting problems. Small passages inside the carburetor can become clogged with dirt, debris, or old fuel residue.
• The Fix:
  • Remove the carburetor: Carefully remove the carburetor from the chainsaw. Be sure to disconnect all fuel lines and linkages. Take pictures as you disassemble it so you know how everything goes back together.
  • Disassemble the carburetor: Disassemble the carburetor carefully, noting the location of all parts.
  • Clean the carburetor: Use carburetor cleaner to thoroughly clean all parts of the carburetor, including the jets, passages, and float bowl. Use compressed air to blow out any remaining debris.
  • Reassemble the carburetor: Reassemble the carburetor carefully, making sure all parts are in their correct locations.
  • Reinstall the carburetor: Reinstall the carburetor onto the chainsaw, making sure to reconnect all fuel lines and linkages.
  • Personal Story: I once spent hours trying to start a chainsaw, only to discover that a tiny piece of debris was blocking one of the jets in the carburetor. After cleaning the carburetor, the chainsaw started right up.

Carburetor Adjustment

• The Problem: An improperly adjusted carburetor can cause starting problems, poor performance, and excessive fuel consumption.
• The Fix:
  • Locate the adjustment screws: The carburetor has three adjustment screws: the low-speed (L) screw, the high-speed (H) screw, and the idle speed (T) screw.
  • Adjust the low-speed screw: The low-speed screw controls the fuel mixture at idle and low speeds. Turn the screw in (clockwise) to lean the mixture (less fuel) and out (counterclockwise) to richen the mixture (more fuel).
  • Adjust the high-speed screw: The high-speed screw controls the fuel mixture at high speeds. Turn the screw in to lean the mixture and out to richen the mixture.
  • Adjust the idle speed screw: The idle speed screw controls the engine’s idle speed. Turn the screw in to increase the idle speed and out to decrease the idle speed.
  • Start with factory settings: Refer to your Echo CS-590 owner’s manual for the factory settings for the carburetor adjustment screws. These are a good starting point for tuning the carburetor.
  • Fine-tune the carburetor: Start the chainsaw and let it warm up. Adjust the low-speed and high-speed screws until the engine runs smoothly at all speeds. Adjust the idle speed screw until the engine idles smoothly without stalling.
  • Listen to the engine: Pay close attention to the engine’s sound as you adjust the carburetor. A lean mixture will cause the engine to run rough and sound “tinny.” A rich mixture will cause the engine to run sluggishly and produce black smoke.
  • Professional Help: If you’re not comfortable adjusting the carburetor yourself, it’s best to take it to a qualified mechanic.

Primer Bulb Inspection

• The Problem: A cracked or damaged primer bulb can prevent fuel from being drawn into the carburetor, making it difficult to start the chainsaw.
• The Fix:
  • Visual Inspection: Check the primer bulb for cracks, tears, or other signs of damage.
  • Functionality Test: Press the primer bulb several times. You should see fuel flowing through the clear fuel line to the carburetor. If the bulb is cracked or doesn’t fill with fuel, it needs to be replaced.
  • Replacement: Primer bulbs are inexpensive and easy to replace. Simply pull off the old bulb and push on a new one.

5. Air Filter Check: Breathing Easy

A clean air filter is essential for proper engine performance. A clogged air filter restricts airflow, causing the engine to run rich and potentially preventing it from starting.

Air Filter Inspection

• The Problem: A dirty or clogged air filter restricts airflow to the engine, causing it to run poorly or not start at all.
• The Fix:
  • Locate the air filter: The air filter is usually located under a cover on top of the engine.
  • Remove the air filter: Remove the air filter cover and take out the air filter.
  • Inspect the air filter: Examine the air filter for dirt, debris, or damage.
  • Clean the air filter: If the air filter is only slightly dirty, you can try cleaning it with compressed air. Blow the air from the inside out to remove the dirt. For foam filters, you can wash them with warm soapy water, rinse thoroughly, and let them dry completely before re-oiling lightly with air filter oil.
  • Replace the air filter: If the air filter is heavily clogged or damaged, it’s best to replace it. Air filters are relatively inexpensive and easy to replace.
    • Data Point: A dirty air filter can reduce engine power by up to 20%.
  • Reinstall the air filter: Reinstall the air filter and the air filter cover.
  • Personal Story: I once had a chainsaw that was running very poorly. I checked everything, but couldn’t find the problem. Finally, I decided to check the air filter, and it was completely clogged with sawdust. After cleaning the air filter, the chainsaw ran like new.

Air Intake Check

• The Problem: Obstructions in the air intake can also restrict airflow to the engine.
• The Fix:
  • Visual Inspection: Check the air intake for any obstructions, such as leaves, twigs, or debris.
  • Cleaning: Remove any obstructions from the air intake.

Additional Tips and Tricks

Beyond the five pro tips, here are some additional things to consider:

• Check the kill switch: Make sure the kill switch is in the “on” position. It sounds simple, but it’s easy to accidentally bump the kill switch to the “off” position.
• Check the choke: When starting a cold engine, use the choke to richen the fuel mixture. Once the engine starts, gradually open the choke.
• Flooded Engine: If you’ve been pulling the starter cord repeatedly without success, you may have flooded the engine. To clear a flooded engine, remove the spark plug, pull the starter cord several times to expel the excess fuel, and then reinstall the spark plug.
• Examine the Starter Mechanism:
  • Rope and Recoil: Ensure the starter rope isn’t broken or frayed. Check that the recoil mechanism is working properly, allowing the rope to retract smoothly.
  • Pawls: Inspect the starter pawls (the small catches that engage the engine flywheel). If they are worn or damaged, they may not properly engage, preventing the engine from turning over.
• Check the Muffler: A clogged muffler can restrict exhaust flow, leading to reduced power and starting problems. Remove the muffler and inspect it for carbon buildup. Clean the muffler with a wire brush or replace it if necessary.

Preventive Maintenance: Avoiding Future Problems

The best way to avoid starting problems is to perform regular preventive maintenance on your chainsaw.

• Clean the chainsaw after each use: Remove sawdust and debris from the engine, air filter, and carburetor.
• Sharpen the chain regularly: A sharp chain cuts more efficiently and puts less strain on the engine.
• Store the chainsaw properly: Store the chainsaw in a dry place, away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures. Drain the fuel tank before storing the chainsaw for extended periods.
• Follow the manufacturer’s recommendations: Refer to your Echo CS-590 owner’s manual for specific maintenance recommendations.

Wood Anatomy and Properties: Understanding Your Material

Understanding the wood you’re cutting can also impact your chainsaw’s performance and longevity.

Hardwood vs. Softwood

• Hardwoods: Generally denser and more difficult to cut than softwoods. Examples include oak, maple, and hickory. These woods require a sharper chain and more power from the chainsaw.
  • Data Point: Oak has a Janka hardness rating of around 1,300 lbf, while pine is around 400 lbf.
• Softwoods: Typically easier to cut. Examples include pine, fir, and spruce.
• Impact on Chainsaw: Cutting hardwoods dulls the chain faster and puts more stress on the engine.

Moisture Content

• Green Wood: Wood that has recently been cut and has a high moisture content. Green wood is heavier and more difficult to cut than seasoned wood.
  • Data Point: Green wood can have a moisture content of over 100% (based on dry weight), while seasoned firewood should be below 20%.
• Seasoned Wood: Wood that has been allowed to dry for several months or years. Seasoned wood is lighter and easier to cut.
• Impact on Chainsaw: Cutting green wood requires more power and can cause the chain to bind more easily.

Logging Tool Selection and Maintenance Best Practices

Choosing the right logging tools and maintaining them properly is crucial for safety and efficiency.

Chainsaw Selection

• Consider the Job: Choose a chainsaw that is appropriate for the size and type of trees you will be cutting. The Echo CS-590 is a good all-around chainsaw for felling trees, limbing, and bucking firewood.
• Bar Length: Select a bar length that is long enough to cut through the largest trees you will be felling.
• Power: Choose a chainsaw with enough power to handle the type of wood you will be cutting.

Logging Tool Maintenance

• Sharpen the Chain: Sharpen the chain regularly to ensure efficient cutting. Use a chainsaw file or a chainsaw chain sharpener.
  • Data Point: A sharp chain can cut up to 50% faster than a dull chain.
• Clean the Chainsaw: Clean the chainsaw after each use to remove sawdust and debris.
• Lubricate the Chain: Lubricate the chain regularly with chainsaw bar and chain oil.
• Inspect the Chainsaw: Inspect the chainsaw regularly for signs of wear or damage.

Firewood Seasoning Techniques and Safety Considerations

Properly seasoning firewood is essential for efficient burning and reducing creosote buildup in your chimney.

Seasoning Techniques

• Stacking: Stack the firewood in a single row, off the ground, with good air circulation.
• Location: Choose a sunny, windy location for stacking the firewood.
• Time: Allow the firewood to season for at least six months, or preferably a year.
  • Data Point: Properly seasoned firewood can have twice the heat output of green wood.
• Wood Species: Different wood species season at different rates. Hardwoods generally take longer to season than softwoods.

Safety Considerations

• Wear appropriate safety gear: Wear safety glasses, hearing protection, gloves, and sturdy boots when cutting firewood.
• Use a chainsaw safely: Follow all safety instructions in the chainsaw owner’s manual.
• Be aware of your surroundings: Be aware of your surroundings and watch out for falling trees and branches.
• Never cut firewood alone: Always have someone with you when cutting firewood.

Project Planning and Execution: A Step-by-Step Approach

Planning your wood processing projects carefully can save you time and effort.

Assessment

• Wood Source: Determine the source of your wood. Are you felling trees, or are you buying logs?
• Quantity: Estimate the amount of firewood you will need.
• Tools and Equipment: Gather all the necessary tools and equipment, including a chainsaw, splitting axe, maul, wedges, and safety gear.

Execution

• Felling: If you are felling trees, plan the felling carefully to avoid damaging property or injuring yourself.
• Limbing: Limb the trees after they have been felled.
• Bucking: Buck the logs into firewood lengths.
• Splitting: Split the firewood into manageable sizes.
• Stacking: Stack the firewood for seasoning.

Detailed Comparisons: Materials and Tools

Let’s compare some common materials and tools used in wood processing.

Manual vs. Hydraulic Splitters

• Manual Splitters: Simple, inexpensive, and require no fuel or electricity. Good for small-scale firewood preparation.
• Hydraulic Splitters: More expensive but can split wood much faster and with less effort. Ideal for larger-scale firewood preparation.
  • Data Point: A hydraulic splitter can split up to 2 cords of wood per hour, while a manual splitter can split around 0.5 cords per hour.

Axe vs. Maul

• Axe: Designed for chopping wood along the grain.
• Maul: Designed for splitting wood across the grain.
• Choosing the Right Tool: Use an axe for felling trees and limbing, and a maul for splitting firewood.

Industry Statistics and Data Points

Here are some relevant industry statistics and data points:

• Firewood Consumption: According to the U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA), approximately 25 million households in the United States use wood as a primary or secondary heating source.
• Chainsaw Market: The global chainsaw market is expected to reach $3.5 billion by 2027.
• Firewood Moisture Content: The ideal moisture content for firewood is below 20%. Wood with a moisture content above 25% burns inefficiently and produces more smoke and creosote.

Real-World Examples and Case Studies

Here are some real-world examples and case studies from my own experience:

• Case Study 1: Reviving an Old Chainsaw: I once acquired an old chainsaw that had been sitting in a shed for years. After cleaning the carburetor, replacing the fuel lines, and installing a new spark plug, I was able to get it running like new.
• Example 1: Building a Firewood Shed: I built a firewood shed to protect my firewood from the elements and ensure that it seasons properly. The shed has a slatted floor for good air circulation and a roof to keep the rain and snow out.

Practical Tips and Actionable Advice

Here are some practical tips and actionable advice you can apply immediately:

• Limited Access to Equipment: Many small workshops and DIYers have limited access to expensive equipment like hydraulic splitters and firewood processors.
• Lack of Space: Limited space can make it difficult to store firewood and perform wood processing tasks.
• Climate: Extreme climates can make it difficult to season firewood properly.
• Regulations: Some areas have strict regulations regarding firewood harvesting and burning.

Conclusion: Getting Back to Work

Troubleshooting a chainsaw that won’t start can be frustrating, but with a systematic approach and a little patience, you can usually diagnose and fix the problem yourself. Remember to check the fuel system, spark, compression, carburetor, and air filter. Perform regular preventive maintenance to avoid future problems. And always prioritize safety when working with chainsaws and other wood processing tools. By following these tips, you’ll be able to keep your Echo CS-590 running smoothly for years to come.

Takeaways and Next Steps

• Review the basics: Start with the simplest checks – fuel, spark, and air filter.
• Don’t be afraid to get your hands dirty: Cleaning a carburetor or replacing a spark plug isn’t as daunting as it seems.
• Invest in quality tools: A compression tester and a multimeter can be invaluable for diagnosing problems.
• Consult the experts: If you’re stumped, don’t hesitate to seek help from a qualified mechanic.

Now, get out there and get your CS-590 roaring again! Happy wood processing!

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