What Is An Echo Chainsaw Choke (Start Test)
An Echo chainsaw choke helps a cold engine start by enriching the fuel-and-air mixture. For a start test, engage the chain brake, use the model’s labeled cold-start setting, and pull until the engine gives its first brief “pop.” Then move the control to the specified run position and restart. Once running, confirm the chain stops at idle.
What the Echo chainsaw choke does
The choke changes the mixture entering a cold engine so it can start more easily. On many Echo chainsaws, the choke is part of a combined control that also sets a fast idle for starting. The control’s labels and exact positions vary by model, so check your operator’s manual before testing.
A cold two-stroke engine may not vaporize fuel as readily as a warm one. The choke helps by limiting incoming air, making the mixture richer in fuel. Once the engine fires and begins to warm, it needs the normal running mixture instead.
The first brief firing sound is often called a “pop.” It means the engine has started to fire, not that it is ready for cutting. At this point, the choke usually needs to move to the next position in the model’s starting sequence. Leaving it fully engaged and continuing to pull can flood the engine.
The best option is to follow the starting diagram for your exact saw, rather than assume every Echo uses the same sequence. Some models combine choke and fast idle in one control; others may differ in how the control resets.
Equipment setup and safety preparation
A start test checks that the saw starts and idles as intended, not that it is ready for every cutting task. Before pulling the starter, prepare the saw and work area. A stable setup and working safety parts reduce the risk of injury or damage during the test.
Wear chainsaw-rated leg protection, eye and face protection, hearing protection, gloves, and suitable footwear. Keep bystanders outside the distance stated in the operator’s manual. Set the saw on firm, level ground, and hold it exactly as the manual directs. Do not drop-start it.
Before starting, check the following:
- The chain is correctly fitted and tensioned, and the bar is secure.
- The chain brake engages and releases as intended.
- The chain catcher and controls are present and undamaged.
- Fuel and chain oil levels are adequate.
- The work area is clear, and the saw has no obvious damage or loose parts.
Use only the fuel specified in the manual. Many current Echo two-stroke chainsaws call for a 50:1 gasoline-to-two-stroke-oil mix by volume, but confirm the requirement for your model. Echo manuals commonly specify gasoline of at least 89 AKI with no more than 10% ethanol; follow your saw’s instructions. Never use straight gasoline in a two-stroke engine that requires mixed fuel.
| Check | What to use or confirm | Why it matters |
|---|---|---|
| Fuel mix | The ratio listed in the model manual; commonly 50:1 on current Echo two-stroke saws | The wrong mix can harm the engine |
| Gasoline | The octane grade and ethanol limit in the manual | Fuel requirements are model-specific |
| Chain | Match pitch, gauge, and drive-link count to the bar markings | Echo chains are not one universal size |
| Starting control | Identify the labeled cold-start and run positions | Control sequences differ by model |
How to perform the cold-start test
The cold-start test checks whether the saw gives an initial firing pop, starts after the control is moved as directed, and settles into a safe idle. Keep the chain brake engaged during starting, and use the exact steps in your model’s manual. Do not keep pulling with full choke after the first pop.
- Set the saw on firm ground. Engage the chain brake and hold the saw securely as the manual shows.
- Turn the ignition switch on. Set the choke or cold-start control to the labeled position for a cold engine.
- Pull the starter handle until the engine gives its first brief firing pop. Use controlled pulls; do not wrap the starter cord around your hand.
- Move the choke control to the next position specified by the manual. On some models, this changes the control to a run or half-choke setting.
- Pull again as directed until the engine starts. Follow the manual for releasing any fast-idle setting.
- Once the engine is running, check that it idles without the chain moving. Use the brake and throttle only as the manual instructs; avoid revving the engine with the brake engaged.
The exact number of pulls is not a reliable pass-or-fail measure. Temperature, fuel condition, engine temperature, and model design can affect starting. The important point is to change the control after the first pop, not to keep cranking with the choke fully closed.
What a successful test looks like
A successful test means the engine fires, starts after the control is moved to the specified position, and runs at idle. The chain must remain stationary at idle. If it moves, switch the saw off and correct the issue before cutting. Do not treat a running engine alone as proof that the saw is safe to use.
If the engine does not give a pop after the manual’s starting steps, stop and review the sequence. Confirm the ignition is on, the fuel is fresh and correctly mixed, and the control is in the proper position. Avoid endless pulling. If you cannot identify the cause, use the manual’s troubleshooting section or have a qualified service technician inspect the saw.
Start-test scenarios and what to do
These common situations help you decide what the choke response means. They are diagnostic examples, not a substitute for your model’s instructions. Stop if the saw behaves unexpectedly, and do not bypass safety parts to make it run.
| What happens | Likely next step |
|---|---|
| The cold engine gives a pop, then starts after the control moves | Continue the manual’s warm-up steps; check that the chain stops at idle |
| The engine pops, but you keep pulling on full choke and it will not start | Stop. The engine may be flooded; use the model’s flooded-engine procedure |
| The engine starts, but the chain moves at idle | Switch off. Do not cut until the idle fault is corrected |
| The engine starts only while the choke remains on, or stalls when it is moved to run | Stop repeated attempts and check the manual’s troubleshooting guidance; fuel or engine service may be needed |
| The engine does not fire at all | Recheck the switch, fuel, and control sequence; consult the manual before further attempts |
If the engine is flooded
Flooding means too much fuel has entered the engine for it to start properly. A common cause is continuing to pull with full choke after the first firing pop. A wet spark plug may be one sign, but do not remove parts unless the manual directs you to do so.
Stop cranking and follow the flooded-engine procedure for your exact model. Procedures differ, so do not guess at choke positions or use a universal sequence. Never defeat a safety control or try to start the saw with the chain brake disengaged.
Warm-up, idle, and the chain-brake check
After the saw starts, follow the manual’s warm-up and fast-idle instructions. The chain brake is used during starting, but the saw should not be revved against an engaged brake. When the manual directs you to release it, keep a firm grip and stay clear of the chain.
At idle, the chain must remain still. If it keeps moving, switch the saw off and address the cause before cutting. Do not try to compensate by changing the idle screw unless the manual gives a model-specific procedure and you can follow it safely. Idle speed and carburetor settings are not universal.
The start test does not confirm that a bar and chain suit a particular tree or job. Check the bar stamp and use a chain with matching pitch, gauge, and drive-link count. Keep the chain sharp and correctly tensioned, and use the cutting method specified for the saw and task.
Shutdown, cleanup, and next steps
A proper finish helps you spot problems before the next use. Switch the saw off, wait for the chain to stop, and let the engine cool before refueling or servicing. Store it with the chain covered, and handle fuel according to the manual and local rules.
After the test, inspect for damage or fuel leaks. Clean debris from the chain-brake area, sprocket cover, air filter, and cooling areas as the manual allows. Recheck chain tension and look for damage. If the saw’s controls, brake, or idle do not work as specified, do not use it for cutting until the fault is corrected.
Frequently asked questions
The answers below cover common questions about the Echo choke and start test. Because control layouts vary, use your model’s operator’s manual for exact positions and procedures.
What does the choke do on an Echo chainsaw?
It enriches the fuel-and-air mixture to help a cold engine start. Many models combine the choke with a fast-idle starting control.
What is the first “pop” during a cold start?
It is a brief sign that the engine has begun firing. Move the choke control to the next position stated in the manual before pulling again.
Should I keep pulling with full choke after the saw pops?
No. Continuing to pull with full choke can flood the engine. Change the control as directed by the model’s starting instructions.
Should the chain brake be on when starting?
Engage it during starting, following the manual. Do not rev the saw against the brake, and release it only as the manual directs.
Is the choke position the same on every Echo chainsaw?
No. The control design and sequence can vary by model. Follow the labels on your saw and its operator’s manual.
What should I do if the saw starts but the chain moves at idle?
Switch the saw off and do not cut. The chain must stay still at idle; have the fault corrected before using the saw.
What if the chainsaw pops but will not start?
Move the control as directed after the pop. If it still will not start, stop repeated attempts and check the model’s troubleshooting steps for flooding or other causes.
Does a successful start test prove the chain is right for my job?
No. The test checks starting and idle behavior. Confirm the chain matches the bar’s pitch, gauge, and drive-link count, and assess the cutting task separately.
(This article was written by one of our staff writers, Evan Bradley. Visit our Meet the Team page.)
