How to Start Echo Chainsaw CS 590 (5 Pro Tips for Quick Ignition)

Did you know that a dull chainsaw can increase fuel consumption by up to 20%? I’ve seen it happen firsthand, and let me tell you, it’s a costly mistake. That’s why getting your chainsaw started quickly and efficiently is not just about convenience; it’s about saving time, money, and a whole lot of frustration.

The Echo CS-590 Timber Wolf is a beast of a machine. I’ve used it for everything from felling small trees to bucking firewood, and when it’s running smoothly, it’s a joy to work with. But like any piece of machinery, it can be a pain to start sometimes. Over the years, I’ve developed a few tricks to get it roaring to life, even on the coldest mornings.

In this article, I’m going to share my top 5 pro tips for starting your Echo CS-590 chainsaw quickly and reliably. These are the techniques I rely on, and I’m confident they’ll help you too.

Key Takeaways:

• Fuel Freshness is Key: Stale fuel is a common culprit for hard starts.
• Master the Starting Procedure: Knowing the choke, primer bulb, and throttle positions is crucial.
• Regular Maintenance Matters: A clean air filter and spark plug make a world of difference.
• Proper Storage Prevents Problems: Storing your chainsaw correctly prevents fuel degradation and other issues.
• Troubleshooting is Essential: Knowing how to diagnose common starting problems saves time and frustration.

Understanding the Echo CS-590: A Workhorse Chainsaw

The Echo CS-590 Timber Wolf is a popular choice for both homeowners and professionals, and for good reason. It’s a powerful, reliable saw that can handle a wide range of tasks. It’s got a 59.8cc engine, which puts it squarely in the “professional” category in terms of power, but it’s still relatively lightweight and easy to handle.

Why is the CS-590 So Popular?

• Power-to-Weight Ratio: It packs a punch without being overly heavy.
• Durability: Echo has a reputation for building tough machines.
• Value: It offers excellent performance at a competitive price point.

I’ve personally found the CS-590 to be a reliable workhorse. I’ve used it to take down some decent sized oak trees on my property, and it never let me down.

Pro Tip #1: Fuel Freshness is Paramount

Let’s face it: fuel is the lifeblood of any gas-powered engine. And stale fuel is a silent killer. One of the most common reasons for hard starting is simply using old, degraded fuel. Gasoline, especially when mixed with oil for two-stroke engines, starts to break down and lose its combustibility after about 30 days.

Why Does Fuel Go Bad?

• Evaporation: Lighter hydrocarbons evaporate, reducing octane.
• Oxidation: Fuel reacts with oxygen, forming gums and varnishes.
• Water Absorption: Ethanol-blended fuels attract moisture, leading to phase separation.

The Data: Studies have shown that gasoline can lose up to 5% of its octane rating per month when stored improperly. This may not seem like much, but it can be enough to cause starting problems and reduced performance.

My Experience: I once had a CS-590 that refused to start after sitting for a few months. I went through all the usual troubleshooting steps, but nothing worked. Finally, I drained the fuel tank and replaced it with fresh gas. The saw fired up on the first pull. Lesson learned: always use fresh fuel!

Actionable Steps:

1. Use Fuel Stabilizer: Add a fuel stabilizer like STA-BIL to your fuel can, especially if you plan to store the fuel for more than 30 days. I’ve seen this stuff work wonders.
2. Buy Small Quantities: Only buy as much fuel as you’ll use in a month or two.
3. Store Fuel Properly: Store fuel in a tightly sealed container in a cool, dark place.
4. Check Fuel Before Use: Before filling your chainsaw, take a whiff of the fuel. If it smells stale or has a varnish-like odor, discard it. Don’t risk clogging your carburetor.
5. Empty the Tank: If you’re storing your chainsaw for an extended period, drain the fuel tank completely.

Pro Tip #2: Master the Starting Procedure

The Echo CS-590 has a specific starting procedure that you need to follow to get it running smoothly. It’s not rocket science, but it requires attention to detail.

The Steps:

1. Safety First: Ensure the chain brake is engaged. This is crucial for safety.
2. Choke Position: With a cold engine, engage the choke fully. This restricts airflow and enriches the fuel mixture, making it easier to start.
3. Primer Bulb: Press the primer bulb several times (usually 6-8 times) until you see fuel flowing through the clear fuel line. This primes the carburetor with fuel.
4. Starting Pull: Place the saw on the ground, holding it firmly with your foot. Pull the starter cord with a smooth, steady motion. Don’t yank it!
5. Choke Adjustment: Once the engine sputters or attempts to start, disengage the choke (move it to the half-choke position, if available, or fully off).
6. Final Pull: Pull the starter cord again. The engine should start and run.
7. Warm-Up: Let the engine warm up for a minute or two before engaging the chain brake and starting to cut.

Common Mistakes:

• Over-Priming: Pressing the primer bulb too many times can flood the engine.
• Yanking the Cord: This can damage the starter mechanism.
• Ignoring the Choke: Not using the choke correctly is a surefire way to make starting difficult.

My Experience: I remember one time when I was trying to start my CS-590 in the middle of winter. It was freezing cold, and the saw just wouldn’t fire up. I was getting frustrated, but I realized I hadn’t been using the choke properly. Once I engaged the choke fully, the saw started on the second pull.

Expert Insight: “The choke is your best friend when starting a cold engine,” says Bob Johnson, a certified small engine mechanic. “It’s like giving the engine a little extra ‘oomph’ to get it going.”

Pro Tip #3: Regular Maintenance is Non-Negotiable

A well-maintained chainsaw is a happy chainsaw. And a happy chainsaw starts easily. Neglecting basic maintenance tasks can lead to a whole host of problems, including hard starting.

Key Maintenance Areas:

• Air Filter: A dirty air filter restricts airflow to the engine, making it difficult to start and reducing performance. Clean or replace the air filter regularly. I clean mine after every 5-10 hours of use.
• Spark Plug: A fouled or worn spark plug can cause starting problems. Inspect the spark plug regularly and replace it if necessary. The spark plug gap should be checked and adjusted according to the manufacturer’s specifications (usually around 0.025 inches).
• Fuel Filter: A clogged fuel filter restricts fuel flow to the carburetor. Replace the fuel filter at least once a year.
• Carburetor Adjustment: If your chainsaw is running poorly, the carburetor may need adjustment. This is best left to a qualified technician, but you can find instructions online if you’re comfortable doing it yourself.
• Chain Sharpness: While not directly related to starting, a sharp chain reduces the load on the engine, making it easier to maintain speed and power.

Data: Studies have shown that a clean air filter can improve fuel efficiency by up to 10%. That’s a significant saving over time.

My Experience: I once had a CS-590 that was running rough and hard to start. I checked the usual suspects – fuel, spark plug, etc. – but everything seemed fine. Finally, I decided to take a closer look at the air filter. It was completely clogged with sawdust and debris. I cleaned the filter, and the saw ran like new.

Actionable Steps:

1. Create a Maintenance Schedule: Set up a regular maintenance schedule for your chainsaw.
2. Use Quality Parts: When replacing parts, use high-quality, OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) parts whenever possible.
3. Keep it Clean: Regularly clean your chainsaw, removing sawdust and debris.
4. Sharpen the Chain: Keep your chain sharp. A dull chain puts unnecessary strain on the engine.
5. Read the Manual: Familiarize yourself with the owner’s manual for your chainsaw. It contains valuable information about maintenance and troubleshooting.

Pro Tip #4: Proper Storage Prevents Problems

How you store your chainsaw can have a significant impact on its starting performance. Improper storage can lead to fuel degradation, corrosion, and other problems that make starting difficult.

Best Practices for Storage:

• Drain the Fuel: If you’re storing your chainsaw for more than a month, drain the fuel tank completely. This prevents fuel from degrading and clogging the carburetor.
• Run the Carburetor Dry: After draining the fuel tank, start the chainsaw and let it run until it stalls. This ensures that the carburetor is empty.
• Remove the Spark Plug: Remove the spark plug and pour a small amount of engine oil into the cylinder. Pull the starter cord a few times to distribute the oil, then reinstall the spark plug. This helps prevent corrosion.
• Clean the Chainsaw: Clean the chainsaw thoroughly, removing sawdust and debris.
• Store in a Dry Place: Store the chainsaw in a dry, well-ventilated place. Avoid storing it in direct sunlight or in damp conditions.
• Use a Chainsaw Case: A chainsaw case protects the chainsaw from dust, dirt, and damage.

My Experience: I used to just toss my chainsaw in the shed after using it, without bothering to drain the fuel or clean it. I quickly learned that this was a bad idea. The chainsaw would often be hard to start, and the carburetor would get clogged with gunk. Now, I always take the time to store my chainsaw properly, and it starts much more reliably.

Expert Insight: “Proper storage is just as important as regular maintenance,” says Sarah Miller, a small engine repair specialist. “It’s like putting your chainsaw to bed for the winter. You want to make sure it’s comfortable and protected.”

Pro Tip #5: Troubleshooting Common Starting Problems

Even with the best fuel, maintenance, and storage practices, you may still encounter starting problems from time to time. Knowing how to troubleshoot common issues can save you time and frustration.

Common Starting Problems and Solutions:

• No Spark: If the engine isn’t getting spark, check the spark plug, ignition coil, and kill switch.
• Flooded Engine: If the engine is flooded, remove the spark plug and pull the starter cord several times to clear the excess fuel. Let the cylinder air out for a few minutes before reinstalling the spark plug.
• Clogged Carburetor: If the carburetor is clogged, it may need to be cleaned or rebuilt. This is a more complex repair that may require professional assistance.
• Low Compression: If the engine has low compression, it may be due to worn piston rings or a damaged cylinder. This is a serious problem that requires major repairs.

Data: A survey of small engine repair shops found that carburetor problems account for approximately 40% of all chainsaw repairs.

My Experience: I once had a CS-590 that wouldn’t start, and I suspected it was a clogged carburetor. I tried cleaning it myself, but I couldn’t get it running right. Finally, I took it to a professional, who rebuilt the carburetor. The saw started on the first pull and ran like new. Sometimes, it’s best to leave complex repairs to the experts.

Actionable Steps:

1. Start with the Basics: Before diving into complex repairs, start with the basics. Check the fuel, spark plug, and air filter.
2. Use a Troubleshooting Guide: Consult the owner’s manual for your chainsaw for a troubleshooting guide.
3. Online Resources: There are many online resources available, including forums and videos, that can help you troubleshoot starting problems.
4. Don’t Be Afraid to Ask for Help: If you’re not comfortable working on your chainsaw, don’t hesitate to take it to a qualified technician.

Conclusion: Start Your Echo CS-590 Like a Pro

Starting your Echo CS-590 chainsaw doesn’t have to be a struggle. By following these five pro tips – using fresh fuel, mastering the starting procedure, performing regular maintenance, practicing proper storage, and troubleshooting common problems – you can get your chainsaw running quickly and reliably, every time.

Remember, a well-maintained chainsaw is a safe and efficient chainsaw. Take the time to care for your equipment, and it will reward you with years of reliable service.

Now, go out there and tackle those wood processing projects with confidence! And if you’re looking to upgrade your chainsaw accessories or need to replace a worn-out part, don’t hesitate to check out our recommended products. Happy cutting!

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