How to Crank a Stihl Chainsaw (3 Pro Tips for Smooth Starts)
The rough, splintery feel of seasoned oak under my gloved hand. The smooth, almost waxy surface of freshly cut pine. The satisfying weight of a well-balanced axe. These are the textures that draw me back to the woods, back to the rhythm of processing wood. I’ve spent years felling trees, milling lumber, and splitting firewood. And one thing I’ve learned: a reliable chainsaw is your best friend. But even the best chainsaw, like my trusty Stihl, is useless if you can’t get it started. Over the years, I’ve fine-tuned my starting technique, and I’m going to share my top three pro tips for smooth Stihl chainsaw starts. Let’s get started!
How to Crank a Stihl Chainsaw (3 Pro Tips for Smooth Starts)
Starting a Stihl chainsaw can sometimes feel like wrestling a grumpy bear. But with the right technique, you can tame that beast and get to work quickly and efficiently. These tips will improve your chainsaw starting experience.
Pro Tip #1: Master the Starting Procedure: Choke, Prime, Pull
This is the foundation. If you don’t follow the correct sequence, you’re going to be pulling until your arm feels like it’s going to fall off. I’ve seen countless people struggle simply because they skipped a step or did them out of order.
Understanding the Choke
The choke restricts airflow to enrich the fuel mixture for cold starts. It’s like giving your chainsaw a strong cup of coffee in the morning. Most Stihl chainsaws have a choke lever that you pull out.
- When to Use: Only for cold starts. If the engine is warm, using the choke will likely flood it.
- How to Use: Pull the choke lever out fully. You’ll usually hear a click.
The Importance of Priming
The primer bulb manually draws fuel into the carburetor. Think of it as getting the fuel pump ready to go.
- Why it Matters: Especially important when the chainsaw has been sitting for a while or when it’s cold outside.
- How to Prime: Press the primer bulb several times (usually 5-6 presses) until you see fuel flowing through the clear fuel line. Don’t over-prime! Flooding the engine is just as bad as not priming it.
The Starting Pull
This is where you actually try to start the engine. It requires a smooth, deliberate pull, not a jerky yank.
- The Correct Stance: Place the chainsaw firmly on the ground, holding the front handle with your left hand and stepping on the rear handle with your right foot. This provides stability.
- The Pulling Technique: Grip the starter handle firmly with your right hand. Pull the cord out smoothly and deliberately, using your whole arm and not just your wrist. Don’t pull the cord all the way out, as this can damage the recoil mechanism.
- Listen for the “Pop”: After a few pulls with the choke engaged, you should hear a “pop” or a brief attempt to start. This indicates that the engine is getting fuel.
After the “Pop”: Disengage the Choke
This is a critical step that many beginners miss. Once you hear the “pop,” push the choke lever back in. This allows the engine to run with a normal air/fuel mixture.
- Why it Matters: Running the chainsaw with the choke engaged for too long will flood the engine.
- What to Do: After the “pop”, push the choke lever in to the half choke position. On some models, this is automatic when you engage the throttle.
Final Pulls
Now, pull the starter cord again. The chainsaw should start within a few pulls. If it doesn’t, review the steps above and make sure you haven’t missed anything.
My Experience: I remember one particularly cold morning in the Adirondacks. My old Stihl 026 wouldn’t start no matter what I did. I was getting frustrated, thinking something was seriously wrong. Turns out, I had forgotten to prime the engine properly because I was rushing. A few extra pumps of the primer bulb, and she fired right up.
Takeaway: The starting procedure is a sequence. Each step is important. Practice it until it becomes second nature.
Pro Tip #2: Fuel and Spark: The Lifeblood of Your Chainsaw
A chainsaw needs two things to run: fuel and spark. If either is compromised, you’re going nowhere. I’ve seen so many starting problems traced back to old fuel or a fouled spark plug.
Fuel Quality Matters
Chainsaws use a two-stroke engine, which requires a mixture of gasoline and oil. Using the wrong fuel or an incorrect oil mixture can lead to serious problems.
- Recommended Fuel: Use high-octane unleaded gasoline (89 octane or higher).
- Recommended Oil: Use a high-quality two-stroke oil specifically designed for air-cooled engines. Stihl Ultra HP is my go-to.
- Mixing Ratio: Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for the correct fuel-to-oil ratio. Most Stihl chainsaws require a 50:1 ratio (50 parts gasoline to 1 part oil).
- Fuel Storage: Store fuel in a clean, airtight container. Use a fuel stabilizer to prevent the fuel from going bad, especially if you’re not using the chainsaw frequently.
- Old Fuel is the Enemy: Gasoline degrades over time, especially when mixed with oil. Don’t use fuel that’s been sitting for more than a month or two. I always write the date on my fuel containers so I know how old the fuel is.
Example: I once tried to save a few bucks by using cheap, low-octane gasoline in my chainsaw. The engine ran poorly, overheated, and eventually seized up. The cost of repairing the engine far outweighed the few dollars I saved on fuel.
The Spark Plug: The Ignition Key
The spark plug ignites the fuel-air mixture in the cylinder, creating the combustion that powers the engine. A fouled or damaged spark plug can prevent the chainsaw from starting.
- Spark Plug Inspection: Regularly inspect the spark plug for signs of fouling (carbon buildup) or damage.
- Cleaning the Spark Plug: If the spark plug is fouled, you can try cleaning it with a wire brush or a spark plug cleaner.
- Spark Plug Gap: The gap between the spark plug electrodes is critical for proper ignition. Use a spark plug gap tool to ensure the gap is within the manufacturer’s specifications (usually around 0.020 inches).
- Replacing the Spark Plug: Replace the spark plug if it’s damaged, heavily fouled, or if you’re unsure of its condition. I recommend replacing the spark plug annually as part of your routine maintenance.
- Spark Test: If you suspect a spark plug issue, remove the spark plug, connect it to the spark plug wire, and ground the spark plug against the engine. Pull the starter cord and look for a strong, blue spark. A weak or nonexistent spark indicates a problem with the spark plug, ignition coil, or wiring.
Case Study: A local logger was having trouble starting his Stihl MS 462. He had tried everything – new fuel, cleaning the carburetor, adjusting the idle speed – but nothing worked. I suggested he check the spark plug. He pulled it out, and it was completely black with carbon buildup. A new spark plug, and the chainsaw fired up on the first pull.
Takeaway: Use fresh, high-quality fuel and maintain your spark plug. These simple steps can prevent a lot of starting headaches.
Pro Tip #3: Carburetor Care: The Engine’s Brain
The carburetor mixes air and fuel in the correct proportions for combustion. A dirty or improperly adjusted carburetor is a common cause of starting problems. I consider it the brain of the chainsaw.
Keeping it Clean
The carburetor has tiny passages that can easily become clogged with dirt, debris, or old fuel residue.
- Air Filter Maintenance: A clean air filter is essential for preventing dirt from entering the carburetor. Clean the air filter regularly with soap and water or compressed air. Replace the air filter if it’s damaged or excessively dirty.
- Fuel Filter Replacement: The fuel filter prevents debris from entering the carburetor. Replace the fuel filter annually or more often if you’re using the chainsaw frequently.
- Carburetor Cleaning: If you suspect the carburetor is dirty, you can try cleaning it with carburetor cleaner. Disassemble the carburetor carefully, following the manufacturer’s instructions. Spray carburetor cleaner through all the passages and jets. Reassemble the carburetor and reinstall it on the chainsaw.
Carburetor Adjustment
The carburetor has adjustment screws that control the air/fuel mixture. Improperly adjusted screws can cause starting problems, poor performance, and excessive fuel consumption.
- Understanding the Adjustment Screws: Most Stihl chainsaws have three adjustment screws:
- L (Low Speed): Controls the fuel mixture at idle and low speeds.
- H (High Speed): Controls the fuel mixture at high speeds.
- LA (Idle Speed): Adjusts the engine idle speed.
- Factory Settings: The factory settings for the adjustment screws are a good starting point. Refer to your chainsaw’s owner’s manual for the factory settings.
- Adjusting the Low-Speed Screw (L): Turn the low-speed screw clockwise to lean the fuel mixture (less fuel) and counterclockwise to richen the fuel mixture (more fuel). Adjust the screw until the engine idles smoothly and accelerates cleanly without hesitation.
- Adjusting the High-Speed Screw (H): This adjustment is best left to a qualified technician. Adjusting the high-speed screw incorrectly can damage the engine.
- Adjusting the Idle Speed Screw (LA): Turn the idle speed screw clockwise to increase the idle speed and counterclockwise to decrease the idle speed. Adjust the screw until the chain doesn’t move at idle speed.
My Insight: I use a small tachometer to fine-tune the carburetor settings on my chainsaws. This allows me to adjust the fuel mixture precisely for optimal performance and fuel efficiency.
Real-World Example: A friend of mine was complaining that his chainsaw was hard to start and ran poorly. I checked the carburetor and found that the low-speed screw was way out of adjustment. I adjusted the screw according to the manufacturer’s specifications, and the chainsaw started easily and ran like new.
Takeaway: Keep your carburetor clean and properly adjusted. This will ensure smooth starting, optimal performance, and long engine life.
Additional Tips and Considerations
Beyond the three pro tips, here are a few extra things to keep in mind:
- Compression: Low compression can make a chainsaw difficult to start. If you suspect low compression, have the engine checked by a qualified technician.
- Wet Spark Plug: If you’ve been pulling the starter cord repeatedly without success, the spark plug may be wet with fuel. Remove the spark plug, dry it off, and try again.
- Check the Kill Switch: Make sure the kill switch is in the “on” position. It sounds obvious, but I’ve seen many people waste time trying to start a chainsaw with the kill switch off.
- Warm Weather Starting: In warm weather, you may not need to use the choke at all. Try starting the chainsaw without the choke first.
- Cold Weather Starting: In cold weather, you may need to use the choke for a longer period of time. You may also need to prime the engine more times.
- Altitude: At higher altitudes, the air is thinner, which can affect the air/fuel mixture. You may need to adjust the carburetor to compensate for the altitude.
- Regular Maintenance: Regular maintenance is key to keeping your chainsaw running smoothly. Follow the manufacturer’s recommendations for maintenance intervals.
- Safety First: Always wear appropriate safety gear when operating a chainsaw, including eye protection, hearing protection, gloves, and sturdy footwear.
A Story from the Field: I was working on a logging project in the Pacific Northwest. We were felling large Douglas fir trees. One of the guys on the crew was having trouble starting his Stihl MS 661. He had tried everything, but nothing worked. Finally, I noticed that he was using the wrong starting procedure. He was engaging the choke, but he wasn’t priming the engine. I showed him the correct procedure, and the chainsaw started right up.
Takeaway: Starting a chainsaw is a combination of technique, maintenance, and troubleshooting. By following these tips, you can increase your chances of a smooth and successful start every time.
Troubleshooting Common Starting Problems
Even with the best technique, you may occasionally encounter starting problems. Here’s a quick guide to troubleshooting common issues:
- Chainsaw won’t start at all:
- Check the fuel level.
- Check the spark plug for spark.
- Make sure the kill switch is in the “on” position.
- Check the air filter.
- Check the fuel filter.
- Clean the carburetor.
- Chainsaw starts but dies immediately:
- Adjust the low-speed screw on the carburetor.
- Check the fuel line for leaks or blockages.
- Check the air filter.
- Chainsaw is hard to start when cold:
- Use the choke.
- Prime the engine.
- Check the spark plug.
- Chainsaw is hard to start when warm:
- Don’t use the choke.
- Check the spark plug.
- Adjust the low-speed screw on the carburetor.
- Chainsaw floods easily:
- Don’t over-prime the engine.
- Check the carburetor for leaks or blockages.
Actionable Advice: Create a checklist for starting your chainsaw. This will help you systematically troubleshoot any problems that arise.
Measuring Success: Performance Metrics
How do you know if you’re successfully implementing these tips? Here are some metrics to track:
- Starting Time: How long does it take to start your chainsaw from cold? Aim for starting within 3-5 pulls.
- Fuel Consumption: Are you using more fuel than usual? This could indicate a carburetor problem.
- Engine Performance: Is the engine running smoothly and powerfully?
- Spark Plug Condition: Regularly inspect your spark plug. A healthy spark plug should be tan or light brown in color.
- Maintenance Schedule Adherence: Are you following the manufacturer’s recommended maintenance schedule?
Personal Anecdote: I keep a logbook for each of my chainsaws. In this logbook, I record the date of each maintenance task, the parts replaced, and any problems encountered. This helps me track the performance of my chainsaws and identify potential issues early on.
Next Steps: Start tracking these metrics for your own chainsaw. This will help you identify areas for improvement and ensure that your chainsaw is running at its best.
Global Considerations for Chainsaw Use
Chainsaw usage varies greatly around the world due to factors like climate, forest types, and economic conditions.
- Tropical Climates: In humid tropical climates, fuel degradation can be a major problem. Use fuel stabilizer and store fuel in airtight containers.
- High-Altitude Regions: In mountainous regions, carburetor adjustment is crucial for optimal performance.
- Developing Countries: In many developing countries, access to high-quality fuel and parts can be limited. Prioritize regular maintenance and use the best available resources.
- Sustainable Logging Practices: Regardless of location, always practice sustainable logging practices to protect forests for future generations.
A Global Perspective: I’ve worked with loggers in various countries, and I’ve learned that the challenges they face are often similar. Access to reliable equipment, proper training, and sustainable forestry practices are essential for success.
Final Thought: Chainsaws are powerful tools that can make wood processing and firewood preparation much easier. By mastering the starting procedure, understanding the importance of fuel and spark, and maintaining your carburetor, you can ensure that your Stihl chainsaw starts smoothly and runs reliably for years to come. Remember to always prioritize safety and practice sustainable forestry. Now get out there and make some sawdust!
