Dirty Business: Chainsaw Fuel Tank Cleaning Tips (Explained)

As any experienced chainsaw user knows, a clean fuel system is absolutely essential for optimal performance and longevity. Over time, residue and gunk can build up inside the fuel tank, lines, and carburetor leading to frustrating issues like difficult starting, sputtering, loss of power, and increased emissions. But never fear – with some elbow grease and the right supplies, you can get your chainsaw’s fuel system sparkling clean again.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk through the common fuel-related issues plaguing chainsaws, provide step-by-step instructions for deep cleaning your fuel tank and lines, share preventative maintenance tips, and more. Arm yourself with the knowledge needed to keep your chainsaw running like new. Time to get your hands dirty!

Common Fuel System Issues

Before we dive into the nitty gritty of fuel tank cleaning, let’s do a quick overview of some of the most frequent fuel-related problems chainsaw owners face:

• Difficult starting or failure to start altogether
• Sputtering, surging, or loss of power during use
• Excessive smoke or fouled spark plug
• Leaks from fuel lines, tank, or carburetor
• Fouled/gummed carburetor and jets
• Increased fuel consumption

The main culprit behind these frustrating issues? Built-up residues, debris, and separation of fuel over time. As gasoline sits, it starts to break down and leave behind sticky varnishes and carbon deposits. Some common contaminants include:

• Oxidized fuel
• Dirt, dust, or rust
• Fuel additives and stabilizers
• Water condensation
• Pieces of cracked fuel lines/tank

Left unchecked, these contaminants can clog up your chainsaw’s fuel filters, jets, ports, and passages leading to restricted flow. That’s why routine fuel tank cleaning is so critical for peak performance.

Step-By-Step Fuel Tank Cleaning

Ready to get started on fuel tank cleaning? Gather the following supplies:

• Fuel line filters
• Carburetor cleaner spray
• Clean rags
• Nylon brush
• Eye protection
• Containers for removed fuel, screws, etc.

Then, follow these key steps:

Drain Old Gas from Tank

• Locate fuel tank drain bolt on underside of chainsaw
• Place container under drain port
• Remove bolt slowly to drain old gas
• Dispose of old gas properly

Draining all old gas is imperative – don’t skip this step! This eliminates the bulk of contaminants from the get-go.

Remove Tank from Chainsaw

• Refer to owner’s manual for exact tank removal
• Typically requires removing spark plug wire, air filter cover, carburetor, muffler, and tank bolts
• Carefully detach fuel lines and remove tank fully
• Set tank aside and plug any open ports

With the tank removed, you’ll have much better access for cleaning. Take care not to damage any gaskets or O-rings.

Initial Cleaning

• Pour a small amount of carburetor cleaner into the empty tank
• Swish liquid around vigorously
• Drain cleaner and residue into waste container
• Repeat process until tank interior looks clean

This initial rinse helps break down and flush out stubborn varnish deposits from the tank walls. Dispose of waste properly.

Scrub Tank & Pickup Tube

• Use a clean nylon brush dipped in cleaner to gently scrub tank interior
• Carefully brush pickup tube and fuel line ports
• Flush with additional cleaner and drain
• Rinse tank thoroughly with hot water

Scrubbing provides an extra level of cleaning to remove clinging debris. Take care not to damage any sensors inside the tank.

Clean Fuel Lines & Filters

• Remove inline fuel filters
• Spray carburetor cleaner into filters and lines
• Flush out with additional cleaner
• Install new fuel filters as needed
• Rinse lines with water and allow to fully dry

Don’t neglect the fuel lines and filters – replace them if grimy. Hardened deposits can detach and reach the carburetor.

Clean Carburetor

• Remove carburetor per manual instructions
• Spray exterior surfaces with carburetor cleaner
• Carefully clean jets with nylon brush
• Rinse carburetor thoroughly with water
• Allow carburetor to fully dry before reassembling

Some carburetor disassembly may be required. Take notes and photos to aid reassembly. Let dry fully before use.

Reassemble Tank & Components

• Install new fuel lines, gaskets, filters as needed
• Reattach tank, carburetor, muffler, etc.
• Refill tank with fresh gas and fuel stabilizer
• Run chainsaw and check for leaks

Use new gaskets if old ones are cracked or damaged. Add fuel stabilizer to protect against future buildup.

Preventative Maintenance Tips

Cleaning the fuel tank is just one part of ongoing chainsaw maintenance. Here are some key tips to help avoid fuel system gunk buildup:

• Use fuel stabilizer in gas – reduces oxidation and varnishes
• Avoid overfilling fuel tank – leaves airspace to prevent condensation
• Store chainsaw properly – empty tank, run dry, clean air filter
• Change fuel filters regularly – stops debris reaching carburetor
• Check fuel lines & gaskets – replace cracked or leaking parts promptly
• Clean tank & carburetor yearly – keeps passages free-flowing
• Use quality fuels – avoid gas with high alcohol content

An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure when it comes to fuel system cleaning! Adopting smart storage habits can significantly extend the time between deep cleanings.

Warning Signs Requiring Service

While routine maintenance and tank cleaning can resolve many issues, be alert for these warning signs indicating a need for professional chainsaw service:

• Visible cracks/damage to fuel tank
• Severely gummed carburetor passages
• Stuck needle valve or fuel pump
• Pervasive leaks from multiple fuel lines/seals
• Engine damage from lean fuel mix
• Inability to keep chainsaw idling smoothly

Attempting repairs without proper training can worsen issues. Consult an authorized chainsaw technician for complex fuel system repairs.

FAQs

Let’s review some frequently asked questions about chainsaw fuel tank cleaning:

What is the best cleaner to use?

Carburetor or brake parts cleaner work well. Avoid aggressive solvents that may damage fuel system components.

How often should I clean the tank?

Annually is recommended if using fuel stabilizer. Clean immediately at first sign of issues.

What’s the white gunk in my tank?

Probably oxidized fuel residues. This varnish buildup can clog carburetor jets.

Can I use water to rinse?

Yes, provided you allow tank and components to fully dry before reassembly.

How do I clean a clogged fuel filter?

Rinse the filter in cleaner. If still clogged, replace filter to ensure proper fuel flow.

The Takeaway

It’s easy to overlook fuel system cleaning, but this basic maintenance task pays huge dividends in your chainsaw’s performance. Follow the steps outlined to scrub away performance-robbing gunk from the fuel tank, carburetor, and filters. Adopt smart storage habits and use quality fuels to minimize deposits between cleanings. Schedule annual fuel system deep cleaning to keep your chainsaw running smoothly for years to come!