Stihl FS38 Won’t Start? (5 Pro Tips for Firewood Prep)

ByStaff Writer Hours Posted on Categories Basic

Ever bite into a perfectly ripe apple and then get a mealy, disappointing one the next time? That inconsistency can be frustrating, right? Well, the same feeling hits me when my equipment fails, especially when I’m counting on it. Today, I’m diving into one of those frustrating experiences: a Stihl FS38 that refuses to start, and how it relates to getting ready for firewood season. This article provides five pro tips that can help you get back on track.

Stihl FS38 Won’t Start? 5 Pro Tips for Firewood Prep

Nothing derails a firewood prep day faster than a stubborn piece of equipment. The Stihl FS38 is a popular choice for trimming and light clearing, which often precedes the heavier work of felling trees for firewood. When it won’t start, it’s more than an inconvenience; it’s a roadblock to getting your winter wood supply ready. I’ve been there, staring at a lifeless engine, wondering where I went wrong.

Tip 1: Fuel Check – The Obvious Culprit

Let’s start with the basics. Old fuel is the nemesis of small engines. I can’t stress this enough: fuel goes bad. Over time, especially when mixed with oil in two-stroke engines like the FS38, fuel can degrade, leaving behind varnish and gunk that clogs the carburetor.

  • The Problem: Stale fuel loses its combustibility. The light hydrocarbons evaporate, leaving behind a heavier, less volatile mix. This leads to hard starting or no starting at all.
  • My Experience: I once spent an entire afternoon troubleshooting a chainsaw, only to realize the fuel was over six months old. Now, I mark the date on every fuel can.
  • The Fix: Drain the old fuel completely. Mix fresh fuel with the correct ratio of two-stroke oil (usually 50:1 for the FS38, but always check your manual). I recommend using a fuel stabilizer, especially if you don’t use the FS38 regularly.
  • Actionable Steps:
    1. Drain the fuel tank into a suitable container.
    2. Inspect the fuel filter inside the tank. Replace it if it looks dirty or clogged.
    3. Mix fresh fuel and oil in a separate container, ensuring the correct ratio. I use a graduated mixing bottle for accuracy.
    4. Pour the fresh fuel mixture into the tank.
  • Measurement: Fuel should be no older than 30 days, ideally. Use a fuel stabilizer to extend its life.
  • Wood Type Specification: This step is universal, regardless of the wood type you’re processing.
  • Tool List:
    • Fuel can
    • Two-stroke oil
    • Mixing bottle
    • Funnel
    • Gloves

Tip 2: Spark Plug Inspection – The Ignition Key

The spark plug is where the magic happens. It ignites the fuel-air mixture, creating the combustion that powers the engine. A fouled or damaged spark plug will prevent the FS38 from starting.

  • The Problem: Over time, spark plugs can become coated with carbon deposits, oil, or fuel residue. This buildup prevents the spark from jumping across the gap, leading to a no-start condition.
  • My Experience: I once had a spark plug that looked perfectly fine, but under closer inspection, the insulator was cracked. It was grounding out the spark.
  • The Fix: Remove the spark plug and inspect it. Look for cracks, excessive carbon buildup, or a widened gap. Clean the spark plug with a wire brush or replace it altogether.
  • Actionable Steps:
    1. Locate the spark plug (usually under a rubber boot near the engine).
    2. Disconnect the spark plug wire.
    3. Use a spark plug wrench to remove the spark plug.
    4. Inspect the spark plug for damage or fouling.
    5. Clean the spark plug with a wire brush or replace it with a new one (check your manual for the correct type – usually an NGK BPMR7A or similar).
    6. Re-gap the spark plug if necessary (usually around 0.020 inches or 0.5mm – check your manual).
    7. Reinstall the spark plug and tighten it securely.
    8. Reconnect the spark plug wire.
  • Measurement: Spark plug gap should be within the manufacturer’s specifications.
  • Wood Type Specification: This step is universal.
  • Tool List:
    • Spark plug wrench
    • Wire brush
    • Spark plug gap tool
    • New spark plug (if necessary)
    • Gloves

Tip 3: Carburetor Cleaning – The Fuel-Air Mixer

The carburetor is responsible for mixing fuel and air in the correct proportions for combustion. A clogged carburetor is a common cause of starting problems in small engines.

  • The Problem: Small passages inside the carburetor can become clogged with varnish and debris from old fuel. This restricts fuel flow, leading to a lean mixture (too much air, not enough fuel) and a no-start condition.
  • My Experience: I once spent hours trying to start a chainsaw after it had been sitting idle for a year. After cleaning the carburetor, it fired right up.
  • The Fix: Cleaning the carburetor involves disassembling it, cleaning the jets and passages, and reassembling it. This can be a bit intimidating, but it’s often necessary to get the FS38 running.
  • Actionable Steps:
    1. Remove the air filter housing.
    2. Locate the carburetor (usually behind the air filter).
    3. Disconnect the fuel lines from the carburetor.
    4. Carefully remove the carburetor from the engine.
    5. Disassemble the carburetor, taking note of the location of each part.
    6. Clean all the parts with carburetor cleaner, paying special attention to the jets and passages. Use compressed air to blow out any remaining debris.
    7. Reassemble the carburetor, ensuring all parts are in their correct locations.
    8. Reinstall the carburetor on the engine.
    9. Reconnect the fuel lines.
    10. Reinstall the air filter housing.
  • Measurement: Proper carburetor adjustment is crucial for optimal performance. Refer to your manual for the correct settings.
  • Wood Type Specification: This step is universal.
  • Tool List:
    • Screwdrivers (various sizes)
    • Carburetor cleaner
    • Compressed air
    • Small brushes or pipe cleaners
    • Gloves
    • Carburetor rebuild kit (optional)

Tip 4: Air Filter Check – The Engine’s Lungs

A clean air filter is essential for proper engine operation. A clogged air filter restricts airflow, leading to a rich mixture (too much fuel, not enough air) and starting problems.

  • The Problem: A dirty air filter restricts airflow to the carburetor. This leads to incomplete combustion, reduced power, and potential engine damage.
  • My Experience: I once neglected to clean the air filter on my chainsaw after a particularly dusty job. It ran poorly and eventually stalled.
  • The Fix: Regularly inspect and clean the air filter. Replace it if it’s excessively dirty or damaged.
  • Actionable Steps:
    1. Locate the air filter housing (usually on top of or behind the engine).
    2. Remove the air filter housing cover.
    3. Remove the air filter.
    4. Inspect the air filter for dirt and debris.
    5. Clean the air filter by tapping it against a hard surface or using compressed air.
    6. If the air filter is heavily soiled, wash it with warm, soapy water. Allow it to dry completely before reinstalling.
    7. Replace the air filter if it’s damaged or excessively dirty.
    8. Reinstall the air filter and the air filter housing cover.
  • Measurement: Air filter should be cleaned or replaced regularly, depending on operating conditions.
  • Wood Type Specification: This step is universal. However, dusty wood types like cedar or dry pine will require more frequent air filter maintenance.
  • Tool List:
    • Screwdriver (if needed to remove the air filter housing cover)
    • Compressed air (optional)
    • Warm, soapy water (optional)
    • New air filter (if necessary)
    • Gloves

Tip 5: Starter Mechanism – The Pull-Cord’s Role

The starter mechanism engages the engine and allows you to pull the cord to start it. If the starter is damaged or malfunctioning, you won’t be able to start the FS38.

  • The Problem: The starter mechanism can become damaged or worn over time. The pull cord can break, the recoil spring can lose its tension, or the pawls that engage the engine flywheel can become worn or broken.
  • My Experience: I once had a pull cord break on me in the middle of a firewood cutting session. It was a frustrating setback.
  • The Fix: Inspect the starter mechanism for damage. Replace the pull cord if it’s broken or frayed. Replace the recoil spring if it’s lost its tension. Replace the pawls if they’re worn or broken.
  • Actionable Steps:
    1. Inspect the pull cord for damage or fraying.
    2. Pull the cord slowly and check for smooth operation.
    3. If the cord is broken or frayed, replace it.
    4. If the cord pulls out easily without engaging the engine, the recoil spring may be broken or have lost tension.
    5. To replace the recoil spring, carefully disassemble the starter mechanism (take pictures as you go for reference).
    6. Replace the recoil spring with a new one.
    7. Reassemble the starter mechanism.
    8. If the pawls are worn or broken, replace them.
  • Measurement: The pull cord should retract smoothly and completely after each pull.
  • Wood Type Specification: This step is universal.
  • Tool List:
    • Screwdrivers (various sizes)
    • Pliers
    • New pull cord (if necessary)
    • New recoil spring (if necessary)
    • New pawls (if necessary)
    • Gloves

Advanced Troubleshooting and Firewood Prep Integration

If you’ve tried these five tips and your Stihl FS38 still won’t start, it’s time to delve into more advanced troubleshooting. These steps often require specialized tools and a deeper understanding of small engine mechanics.

Compression Test – The Heart of the Engine

A compression test measures the pressure inside the engine cylinder. Low compression indicates a problem with the piston rings, cylinder walls, or valves (though the FS38 doesn’t have valves).

  • The Problem: Worn piston rings or damaged cylinder walls can cause low compression, making it difficult or impossible to start the engine.
  • My Experience: I once worked on a chainsaw that had been run without oil. The cylinder walls were scored, resulting in very low compression.
  • The Fix: Perform a compression test using a compression tester. Insert the tester into the spark plug hole and pull the starter cord several times. Note the reading on the gauge.
  • Actionable Steps:
    1. Remove the spark plug.
    2. Insert the compression tester into the spark plug hole.
    3. Pull the starter cord several times.
    4. Note the reading on the gauge.
    5. Compare the reading to the manufacturer’s specifications.
  • Measurement: Compression should be within the manufacturer’s specifications (usually around 100-150 PSI for the FS38).
  • Wood Type Specification: Low compression affects engine performance regardless of wood type.
  • Tool List:
    • Compression tester
    • Spark plug wrench
    • Gloves

Ignition System Test – Checking the Spark

Even if the spark plug is good, there could be a problem with the ignition system. This includes the ignition coil, the flywheel, and the wiring.

  • The Problem: A faulty ignition coil can prevent the spark plug from firing. A damaged flywheel can disrupt the timing of the spark.
  • My Experience: I once had a chainsaw that would only start intermittently. The problem was a cracked ignition coil.
  • The Fix: Use a spark tester to check for spark. If there’s no spark, test the ignition coil with a multimeter. Check the wiring for damage.
  • Actionable Steps:
    1. Remove the spark plug.
    2. Connect the spark plug to the spark plug wire.
    3. Ground the spark plug against the engine block.
    4. Pull the starter cord and observe the spark plug.
    5. If there’s no spark, use a spark tester to check for spark.
    6. If there’s still no spark, test the ignition coil with a multimeter.
    7. Check the wiring for damage.
  • Measurement: The spark should be strong and consistent. The ignition coil should have the correct resistance according to the manufacturer’s specifications.
  • Wood Type Specification: Ignition system problems affect engine performance regardless of wood type.
  • Tool List:
    • Spark tester
    • Multimeter
    • Screwdrivers
    • Gloves

Fuel System Deep Dive – Beyond the Carburetor

If the carburetor is clean, but the engine still isn’t getting fuel, there may be a problem with the fuel lines, the fuel filter, or the fuel pump (if equipped).

  • The Problem: Clogged fuel lines, a dirty fuel filter, or a faulty fuel pump can restrict fuel flow to the carburetor.
  • My Experience: I once had a chainsaw that would start and then die after a few seconds. The problem was a cracked fuel line that was sucking air.
  • The Fix: Inspect the fuel lines for cracks or leaks. Replace the fuel filter. Test the fuel pump (if equipped) to ensure it’s delivering fuel.
  • Actionable Steps:
    1. Inspect the fuel lines for cracks or leaks.
    2. Replace the fuel filter.
    3. If the FS38 has a fuel pump, test it to ensure it’s delivering fuel.
  • Measurement: Fuel lines should be flexible and free of cracks. The fuel filter should be clean. The fuel pump should deliver a steady stream of fuel.
  • Wood Type Specification: Fuel system problems affect engine performance regardless of wood type.
  • Tool List:
    • Screwdrivers
    • Pliers
    • New fuel lines (if necessary)
    • New fuel filter (if necessary)
    • Fuel pump tester (if applicable)
    • Gloves

Firewood Prep Integration: Maximizing Efficiency

Now, let’s tie this back to firewood preparation. A properly functioning FS38 is crucial for tasks like clearing brush, limbing trees, and cutting smaller pieces of wood to size.

Brush Clearing – The Foundation

Before you can fell trees for firewood, you need to clear the area around them. The FS38 is ideal for this task. A well-maintained trimmer will make this job faster and easier.

  • My Experience: I always clear a wide area around the trees I’m felling. This reduces the risk of the tree getting hung up in the brush and makes it easier to work around the felled tree.
  • Best Practices:
    • Wear appropriate safety gear, including eye protection, hearing protection, and gloves.
    • Clear a wide area around the trees you’re felling.
    • Remove any obstacles that could trip you or interfere with your work.
  • Measurement: Aim to clear an area at least twice the height of the tree you’re felling.
  • Wood Type Specification: Brush clearing is necessary regardless of the wood type.
  • Tool List:
    • Stihl FS38 (or similar trimmer)
    • Eye protection
    • Hearing protection
    • Gloves
    • Boots

Limbing – Preparing the Trunk

After felling a tree, you need to remove the branches. The FS38 can be used to cut smaller limbs, making it easier to handle the trunk with a chainsaw.

  • My Experience: I often use a combination of a chainsaw and a trimmer for limbing. The chainsaw is used for larger limbs, while the trimmer is used for smaller branches and twigs.
  • Best Practices:
    • Work from the base of the tree towards the top.
    • Cut limbs flush with the trunk.
    • Be careful not to damage the trunk with the trimmer.
  • Measurement: Limbs should be cut flush with the trunk.
  • Wood Type Specification: Limbing is necessary regardless of the wood type.
  • Tool List:
    • Stihl FS38 (or similar trimmer)
    • Chainsaw
    • Eye protection
    • Hearing protection
    • Gloves
    • Boots

Cutting to Size – The Final Step

Once the trunk is limbed, you can cut it into manageable lengths for splitting and stacking. The FS38 can be used to cut smaller pieces of wood to size.

  • My Experience: I often use a chop saw or a miter saw to cut firewood to a consistent length. This makes stacking easier and ensures that the wood fits properly in my wood stove.
  • Best Practices:
    • Cut the wood to a consistent length (usually 16-18 inches).
    • Use a saw that is appropriate for the size of the wood.
    • Wear appropriate safety gear.
  • Measurement: Firewood should be cut to a consistent length.
  • Wood Type Specification: Cutting to size is necessary regardless of the wood type.
  • Tool List:
    • Stihl FS38 (for small pieces)
    • Chainsaw (for larger pieces)
    • Chop saw or miter saw (optional)
    • Eye protection
    • Hearing protection
    • Gloves
    • Boots

Preventative Maintenance: Avoiding Future Headaches

The best way to avoid starting problems with your Stihl FS38 is to perform regular preventative maintenance. This includes:

Regular Cleaning – Keeping Things Tidy

Clean the FS38 after each use. This includes removing dirt and debris from the engine, the air filter, and the cutting head.

  • My Experience: I always clean my equipment after each use. This helps to prevent problems and extends the life of the equipment.
  • Best Practices:
    • Use compressed air to blow out dirt and debris.
    • Wipe down the engine with a damp cloth.
    • Clean the air filter regularly.
    • Sharpen the cutting head as needed.
  • Measurement: The FS38 should be clean and free of dirt and debris.
  • Wood Type Specification: Regular cleaning is necessary regardless of the wood type.
  • Tool List:
    • Compressed air
    • Damp cloth
    • Wire brush
    • File or grinder (for sharpening the cutting head)
    • Gloves

Proper Storage – Avoiding the Off-Season Blues

Store the FS38 in a dry, protected location when it’s not in use. This will help to prevent rust and corrosion.

  • My Experience: I always store my equipment in a shed where it’s protected from the elements. This has helped to extend the life of my equipment.
  • Best Practices:
    • Drain the fuel tank before storing the FS38 for an extended period.
    • Remove the spark plug and pour a small amount of oil into the cylinder.
    • Pull the starter cord several times to distribute the oil.
    • Reinstall the spark plug.
    • Store the FS38 in a dry, protected location.
  • Measurement: The FS38 should be stored in a dry, protected location.
  • Wood Type Specification: Proper storage is necessary regardless of the wood type.
  • Tool List:
    • Fuel can
    • Oil
    • Spark plug wrench
    • Gloves

Scheduled Servicing – The Proactive Approach

Follow the manufacturer’s recommended service schedule. This includes changing the spark plug, the air filter, and the fuel filter at regular intervals.

  • My Experience: I always follow the manufacturer’s recommended service schedule. This has helped to prevent problems and keeps my equipment running smoothly.
  • Best Practices:
    • Refer to the owner’s manual for the recommended service schedule.
    • Keep a record of all service performed.
    • Use genuine Stihl parts whenever possible.
  • Measurement: Follow the manufacturer’s recommended service schedule.
  • Wood Type Specification: Scheduled servicing is necessary regardless of the wood type.
  • Tool List:
    • Spark plug wrench
    • Air filter
    • Fuel filter
    • Screwdrivers
    • Gloves

Safety First: Protecting Yourself

Working with power equipment can be dangerous. Always follow these safety precautions:

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) – Your First Line of Defense

Wear appropriate PPE, including eye protection, hearing protection, gloves, and boots.

  • My Experience: I never operate power equipment without wearing appropriate PPE. It’s not worth the risk.
  • Best Practices:
    • Wear eye protection to protect your eyes from flying debris.
    • Wear hearing protection to protect your ears from loud noise.
    • Wear gloves to protect your hands from cuts and abrasions.
    • Wear boots to protect your feet from injury.
  • Measurement: Always wear appropriate PPE when operating power equipment.
  • Wood Type Specification: PPE is necessary regardless of the wood type.
  • Tool List:
    • Eye protection
    • Hearing protection
    • Gloves
    • Boots

Safe Operating Practices – Minimizing Risk

Follow safe operating practices. This includes keeping a safe distance from others, working in a well-ventilated area, and avoiding distractions.

  • My Experience: I always follow safe operating practices. It’s important to be aware of your surroundings and to avoid distractions.
  • Best Practices:
    • Keep a safe distance from others.
    • Work in a well-ventilated area.
    • Avoid distractions.
    • Never operate power equipment when you’re tired or under the influence of drugs or alcohol.
  • Measurement: Always follow safe operating practices when operating power equipment.
  • Wood Type Specification: Safe operating practices are necessary regardless of the wood type.
  • Tool List:
    • Common sense
    • Awareness
    • Responsibility

Emergency Preparedness – Planning for the Unexpected

Be prepared for emergencies. This includes having a first-aid kit on hand and knowing how to contact emergency services.

  • My Experience: I always have a first-aid kit on hand when I’m working with power equipment. It’s important to be prepared for the unexpected.
  • Best Practices:
    • Keep a first-aid kit on hand.
    • Know how to contact emergency services.
    • Let someone know where you’re working and when you expect to be back.
  • Measurement: Always be prepared for emergencies when working with power equipment.
  • Wood Type Specification: Emergency preparedness is necessary regardless of the wood type.
  • Tool List:
    • First-aid kit
    • Cell phone or other communication device
    • Emergency contact information

Conclusion: Back to Splitting

Getting your Stihl FS38 running smoothly is essential for efficient firewood preparation. By following these tips, you can troubleshoot common starting problems and keep your equipment in top condition. Remember to prioritize safety and always follow the manufacturer’s recommendations. Now, get back out there and split that wood! You’ve got a winter to prepare for.

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jessica.wilson@reportertales.store'

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