Chainsaw Keeps Cutting Out. Tips From a Professional:

Are you tired of your chainsaw cutting out in the middle of your work? I’ve tackled this problem many times in my professional life. I have the knowledge and skills to help you fix it

Chainsaw Keeps Cutting Out?

Generally, a chainsaw that starts but keeps cutting out is because the engine does not receive the required fuel and air to keep it running. Check, clean, or replace a dirty air filter to fix the issue. Clean or adjust a dirty spark plug, clean the carburetor, clean/unclog the fuel line, and drain and replace old/lousy gas.

Checking and fixing these issues is not difficult. In this blog post, I will provide all the information and tips on why your chainsaw keeps cutting out and how to get it working perfectly.

Why Won’t My Chainsaw Keep Running?

A “cutting out” chainsaw starts fine but fails to stay running beyond a couple of minutes. This is also known as “stalling.”  Your chainsaw keeps cutting out or stalls when its engine doesn’t get enough gas and air to keep it working fine.

In most cases, this happens because the fuel supply to the engine becomes interrupted. To fix an engine that keeps cutting out, all components that deal with the fuel and air delivery have to be checked, cleaned, or replaced.

The most important of these components is the carburetor. It takes air and fuel, creates the correct air-fuel mixture, and sends it to the combustion chamber.

The fuel lines and filter provide clean gas to the carburetor at the required rate. The air filter ensures that the air supplied to the engine is free from dirt and debris.

Finally, the spark plug regularly ignites the air-fuel mixture in the combustion chamber. All these components work together to ensure that the engine works well. But if some of these components fail, the engine fails too and stops working.

How to Fix a Chainsaw that Won’t Stay Running:

Now, let’s see how to check and fix the earlier-mentioned components:

● Chainsaw that won’t Stay Running: Check and clean the Air Filter

A chainsaw’s air filter prevents dirt and debris from entering the engine. However, wood particles and debris can clog the filter over time, hindering the airflow. Regularly checking and cleaning your chainsaw’s air filter is needed to fix this problem.

A chainsaw’s air filter is well protected and hidden from the user’s eye. The best way to determine the air filter’s position is from the slits at your chainsaw’s surface. Slits are there to ensure an uninterrupted airflow in and out of your saw.

However, in extreme cases of debris accumulation, the slits become shielded from the inside by dirt particles, which can seriously harm your saw.

Once you have located the air filter, use a screwdriver to remove its outer covering. Next, take off the main filter cover present beneath the outer cover. This will give you access to the air filter. Make sure you carefully remove the air filter.

– Rinsing the Air Filter: The Final Cleaning Step

If your machine uses a foam air filter, you can wash it. To clean it, you need two buckets of water and a hand-bristle brush/toothbrush. Put some drops of soap in a bucket filled with hot water and swirl to create foam.

Take the filter, softly scrub it with the brush to release the dirt particles, then dip it in the hot water bucket.

Swirl it in soapy water to allow the soap to absorb and pull the dirt out. Let it stay in hot water for a couple of minutes, then remove it and dip it in the cold water bucket to remove any remaining dirt particles.

Let it sit in the cold water bucket for a few minutes, then take it out and let it dry completely before reinstalling it.

Why does the chainsaw start and then stop working? There could be some trouble with the chain, and since it is connected to the engine, it might affect the overall performance of the chainsaw. Therefore, along with the air filter, it is also essential to check the condition of the chain.

If you find trouble with the chain and sprocket, it might be best to replace them. Remember, a well-maintained chainsaw not only performs better but also lasts longer.

– When to Replace Your Chainsaw’s Air Filter

I recommend replacing a damaged air filter. If your machine uses a paper air filter, you can not wash it. So when dirty, it always needs to be replaced.

Before reinstalling the filter, you should also clean the air filter cover since air has to flow through the covers to reach the filter.

Place the two covers in the hot water bucket, scrub them with the brush, and then wash them with cold water. Let them dry. Once the filter and its covers have dried completely, reinstall them. Install the filter, the inner surface, and finally, the outer shell using a screwdriver.

● Chainsaw that won’t Stay Running: Check and clean the Fuel Filter

The fuel filter in your chainsaw can be found inside the fuel tank. The fuel filter’s job is to prevent dirt and debris in the fuel tank from entering the fuel lines. When the fuel filter is damaged, dirt from the fuel tank can freely enter the fuel lines, creating a clog and preventing the fuel from reaching the engine freely.

The fuel filter itself can also get clogged. A clogged fuel filter stops fuel from entering the fuel lines and, eventually, from reaching the engine, causing it to cut out.

Check the fuel filter for damage and clogs if your engine keeps cutting out. Replace it when needed. Check your chainsaw’s manual to remove the damaged fuel filter and install a replacement correctly.

I recommend replacing a damaged fuel filter instead of fixing it. It is not an expensive component and is easy to find.

● Chainsaw that won’t Stay Running: Check and clean the Spark Plug

A dirty or faulty spark plug is another well-known reason causing your chainsaw to keep cutting out. Remove the spark plug and check if the insulator nose is covered with oil, carbon, or fuel deposit.

When the live electrode of a spark plug becomes covered, voltage flows along with the insulator nose back into the metal shell and grounds out rather than connecting the gap between the two electrodes to fire as usual. As a result, the spark plug starts missing, causing the engine to cut out.

An inaccurately adjusted carburetor usually sends a rich fuel mixture to the combustion chamber, making the spark plug dirty over time. Suppose your chainsaw’s spark plug is dirty. I recommend replacing it. A spark plug that is not too dirty can be cleaned with a metal brush or sandpaper.

I recommend checking the spark plug gap as well. If the spark plug gap is not correct, adjust it.

● Chainsaw that won’t Stay Running: Check and clean the carburetor

The main culprit behind a chainsaw engine that keeps cutting out is usually a dirty or wrongly adjusted carburetor. A faulty carburetor fails to supply the correct air-fuel mixture, also called the “charge,” to the engine. It was causing the machine to cut out or stall.

If you have already checked and cleaned the earlier-mentioned components, your chainsaw is still cutting out. Check and clean the carburetor.

– Cleaning the Carburetor:

• Step 1: Clean the intake components: Using harmful gas can result in a gummy residue build-up in the carburetor intake. Gas can get wrong when it is older than 1 to 2 months. Use some carburetor cleaner spray to clean the intake components.
• Step 2: Wash the needle valves: Deposits can clog a carburetor’s valves. Use an appropriate carburetor cleaning liquid to wash the needle valves while gently scrubbing with a toothbrush. Let the needle valves dry before moving on to the next step.
• Step 3: Pull the pull cord: Blend the gas in the tank with some cleanser liquid and pull the line several times with intermediate pauses. Even though your chainsaw will not be running during this process, removing the cord like this will cause some fuel-cleanser mixture to run through the carburetor. Wipe off the sticky residue that was clogging it.
• Step 4: Add fresh fuel: Drain the old fuel from the tank and add new power. Add some fuel stabilizers if you do not expect to use your chainsaw for over a month.

The above procedure can be used if the carburetor is mildly dirty, really dirty, or too clogged. Then, you’ll have to disassemble it and clean the individual components.

– Adjusting the Carburetor:

Most chainsaw carburetors have three adjustment screws:

• Idle speed/throttle adjustment: The idle speed adjustment controls how much the throttle valve stays open when the trigger is released. If the idle speed adjustment is too low, the engine cuts out when the throttle trigger is fired. However, if the idle speed adjustment is too high, the high idle speed will engage the centrifugal clutch. It was causing the chain to run. This can be a hazardous situation.
• Low-Speed Fuel Adjustment: The low-speed fuel adjustment controls the fuel proportion in the combustible air-fuel mixture at idle speed. If this adjustment is too high, the mixture becomes too rich. This causes the engine to load up and cut out at idle speed. However, if this adjustment is too low, the air-fuel mixture becomes too lean, causing the machine to cut out because it is starving. This adjustment is mainly marked as “L” on the carburetor.
• High-Speed Fuel Adjustment: The high-speed fuel adjustment controls the fuel proportion in the combustible air-fuel mixture when the chainsaw runs at cutting speed. If this adjustment is too high, your chainsaw will fail to reach the RPM level essential to reach maximum power. Furthermore, it will cause a sluggish throttle response, smoking, and performance loss. If this adjustment is too low, the engine will likely reach an RPM level that can cause cylinder seizure and bearing failure, and the cutting power will decrease, too. This adjustment is marked as “H” on the carburetor.

– This is how you can adjust your chainsaw’s carburetor:

Once the air filter has been cleaned and you have added fresh fuel (add at least half a tank), you can start with the carburetor adjustment by balancing the high and low-speed screws. To adjust the carburetor, make sure that both the high and low-speed screws are completely turned in as soon as your chainsaw becomes hot.

Then turn each screw counterclockwise, one rotation, or gradually, depending on the manufacturer’s manual. Next, turn the high-speed screw clockwise to make the mixture lean. Finally, turn the high-speed screw counterclockwise until the engine runs fine. In this setting, you have achieved the correct RPM for your chainsaw.

You can also use the throttle adjustment to perform a quick test. For this, ensure that your chainsaw is idle, and the chain is not moving. If the chain is turning, gradually turn the throttle screw counterclockwise until the chain stops turning.

● Chainsaw that won’t Stay Running: Use Fresh gas

Fuel that sits in the tank for more than a month can start producing a gummy residue that can clog the carburetor and fuel lines. I recommend not storing gas for more than a month without adding a fuel stabilizer.

The best approach is to use fresh fuel each time you use your chainsaw. This will guarantee the best performance from your saw and increase its service life.

Why does my chainsaw die when I give it gas?

Suppose your chainsaw dies or cuts out when you give gas or at full throttle. It is most likely because the engine is not receiving the required fuel and air to keep it running.

Check and clean the air filter and the spark plug to fix the issue. If that does not resolve the issue, check and clean the carburetor and always use fresh gas.

Why Does My Chainsaw Start and then Stop Working?

When your chainsaw starts OK but stops, the engine often does not receive the correct fuel-air mixture. The most common reasons are a blockage in fuel lines, a clogged or faulty carburetor, a dirty air filter, or a faulty spark plug.

● Fuel-Related Failures and Warranty Concerns

In my experience, it is essential to note that fuel-related failures are typically not covered under warranty.

I strongly recommend contacting your local authorized service center when facing fuel delivery or functionality issues. They usually have the requisite tools and expertise to diagnose and repair problems.

● Inspecting and Maintaining the Air Filter

If your chainsaw unexpectedly stops working after starting, check the air filter. A dirty or damaged air filter can severely impact the efficiency and functionality of your tool. If you identify any dirt build-up or noticeable damage, clean or replace the air filter immediately.

From my professional experience, a simple wire brush can effectively clean the air filter. Ensuring a clean air filter is pivotal for properly operating your chainsaw, as it frees the engine from dust and debris. Remember, the better the air circulation, the better the chainsaw functions.

You could refer to this Oregon State University resource for detailed instructions on maintaining your chainsaw.

● Dealing with Position-Related Stalls

A common issue with chainsaws is their propensity to stall or stop altogether when tilted or turned sideways. This is often a result of the fuel filter not maintaining contact with the fuel due to the altered position.

As such, using the correct fuel line and filter as specified in the operator’s manual is crucial. This ensures a steady fuel supply, irrespective of the chainsaw’s orientation.

● Addressing Continued Shutdown

Despite ensuring the correct fuel line and filter use, if your chainsaw continues to shut down when turned sideways, it could indicate a fuel line leakage or a need for fuel line resetting.

In circumstances like this, where troubleshooting by yourself isn’t resolving the issue, I advise contacting an authorized local dealer. They possess advanced diagnostic tools and knowledge to pinpoint the problem and recommend suitable solutions accurately.

● Talking About Fuel Issues, Dirty Air Filters, and Chainsaw Position

Having dealt with my share of chainsaws, I can firmly assert that fuel issues, dirty air filters, and position-related problems are among the most common problems one encounters.

As someone who has spent significant time troubleshooting these issues, let me emphasize the importance of using the correct fuel type. Incorrect fuel can result in severe damage, from corroded engines to clogged fuel lines and premature wear of internal components.

Following proper maintenance procedures will ensure your chainsaw operates smoothly and efficiently. Regularly check and clean your air filter, maintain the correct chainsaw position, and always be aware of the state of your fuel lines.

● Remarks

With my years of experience dealing with various models and types of chainsaws, it has become clear that regular maintenance, correct fuel type, and proper chainsaw positioning play critical roles in the efficient functioning of your tool.

In case these issues persist despite your best efforts, I strongly urge you to take the help of local authorized dealers. They have been trained and equipped to handle such scenarios, and their service can often make the difference between a temporary repair and a long-term solution.

Consult Your Chainsaw Manual for Guidance

One of the first things I recommend is to read through your chainsaw manual thoroughly. This document provides invaluable information about your model, helping you identify potential problems and conduct regular maintenance (source: osha.gov).

● Fuel Quality: Fresh, High-Octane Gas is Crucial

Your chainsaw might stall or even fail to start if you are using old gas or bad-quality fuel. I always advise using fresh, high-octane gas to ensure optimal performance.

● Replacing Fuel Filter and Checking Fuel Lines

Faulty fuel delivery might be due to a clogged fuel filter or damaged fuel lines. To keep your chainsaw in perfect working condition, I recommend regularly replacing the fuel filter and avoiding ethanol gas whenever possible.

● Importance of Clean Air Filter

Dirty air filters can also prevent your chainsaw from starting or staying running. It is essential to clean or replace the air filters when they get dirty.

● Keeping the Exhaust Clear

One often overlooked cause for chainsaw engine stalling is a clogged exhaust, usually from a dirty spark arrester. To counter this, ensure your spark arrester is cleaned or replaced.

● Check the Fuel Tank Vent or Fuel Cap

If you experience pressure issues with your chainsaw, meaning it won’t stay running, the probable cause is a clogged fuel tank vent or fuel cap. Make sure these two components are clean and properly functioning.

● Blocked or Damaged idle port

If your chainsaw repeatedly fails to continue running, the idle port could be blocked or damaged. I recommend inspecting the idle port and cleaning it with a solvent, if necessary, to prevent such issues.

● The Roll of Spark Plug

A damaged or wrong spark plug can also prevent the chainsaw from starting or cause a dramatic loss of power. It is essential, therefore, to inspect the spark plug for any damage and replace it as needed.

● Adjusting the Carburetor

Getting the carburetor adjustments just right can be difficult without sufficient knowledge. At this point, you may need to take your chainsaw to a service shop for calibration.

● Compression Problems

Faulty piston rings or a cracked piston might be why your chainsaw won’t stay running. A compression test can reveal if your chainsaw has any internal damage (source: ehow.com).

● Cleaning the Carburetor

Finally, a carburetor can be easily cleaned with a dirty, clogged, or damaged carburetor cleaner. Your carburetor might need replacing if your chainsaw malfunctions despite your best cleaning efforts.

● Chainsaw Maintenance Guide

Knowing and adhering to the maintenance instructions and safety guidelines provided in the chainsaw user manual is vital.

If you find the manual not being of much help, seek further guidance by exploring various resources for troubleshooting chainsaw issues found online. Regular maintenance is crucial for any chainsaw to function optimally and last longer.

Remember, each chainsaw is unique. Paying attention to your chainsaw’s needs will prolong its lifespan and maximize its performance.

Starter Rope and Return Spring Issues in Chainsaws

If your chainsaw is failing to start, this could be due to a faulty starter rope and return spring. In my many years of experience, I have found that these parts can become damaged over time, preventing the chainsaw from powering up.

It’s crucial to replace them with original spare parts. If you cannot get it fixed or exchange it, I recommend taking it to the shop to either get it fixed or exchanged.

Using compatible parts restricts the risk of further damage and ensures your chainsaw is equipped to function optimally.

● The Importance of Alkylated Mixtures for Chainsaw Fuel

Providing the right fuel for your chainsaw is fundamental to its maintenance. Regular petrol fuels can lead to the deterioration of the fuel and mixture in your chainsaw.

I recommend using alkylated mixtures or additives, which have been shown to significantly reduce this deterioration, keeping your chainsaw in optimal condition for extended periods.

● Resolving Flooding Issues in Chainsaws

Sometimes, the chainsaw might start and suddenly stop, leaving you with a wet spark plug. This is likely due to flooding. Luckily, the anti-flooding procedure to resolve this issue is straightforward.

Dry out the spark plug and empty the engine’s combustion chamber. This recommendation has helped many chainsaw owners get their saws back up and running with minimal effort.

● Troubleshooting Electric Chainsaw Issues

In the case of electric chainsaws, always begin troubleshooting by inspecting the power cable and plug for any visible damage. If there are no evident issues with the wires, the problem might lie in the motor. One common point is worn-out or damaged brushes on the engine.

An in-depth guide from the United States Department of Agriculture provides excellent tips for resolving these issues.

● Safety Measures for Chainsaw Users

While focusing on chainsaw repairs and maintenance, it is equally important not to forget about safety. Personal protective equipment is crucial, especially when handling power tools such as chainsaws.

I cannot stress enough the importance of wearing chain-resistant gloves. They reduce the risk of injury and provide a sturdy grip while operating the chainsaw.

● The Importance of Regular Maintenance and Cleaning for Chainsaws

Periodical maintenance and cleaning often seem tedious but are vital for safely and efficiently using your chainsaw. Cleaning prevents the buildup of sawdust and residues, which can clog the chainsaw’s vital components.

Regular upkeep of each part minimizes the risk of sudden failures. Clean and well-maintained chainsaws can drastically increase the longevity of your tool.

By staying informed and attentive to these key aspects, you can ensure your chainsaw’s longevity and safe use. Remember, routine checks and maintenance are your best defense against unexpected breakdowns and safety hazards.

Don’t shy away from taking guidance from manuals, educational resources, and experts when unsure about specific parts replacement or resolving technical issues with your chainsaw.

● Identifying the Problem with Your Stihl 026 Chainsaw

Even machines as reliable as the Stihl 026 chainsaw may occasionally present issues in the machinery world. One such common problem that you might have encountered is cut-off.

This might restrict you from maximizing your chainsaw, but don’t worry. We will look into the possibilities and provide helpful advice.

● A Contaminated Air Filter

Like any other mechanical device, chainsaws need a clean air passage to function optimally. Your air filter should be the first to check if you are experiencing cut-off issues with your Stihl 026 chainsaw.

In your case, you have already cleaned the air filter, and we discovered it was contaminated with dust. This is a familiar spot of trouble, as dust can severely affect airflow and, in turn, the overall functioning of your chainsaw.

Routine cleaning of your air filter is recommended to prevent any dust-related issues.

● Adjusting the L Screw

The L screw, or the low-speed adjustment screw, is a crucial part of ensuring your chainsaw’s engine runs correctly. It influences the fuel-air mixture when the chainsaw operates at low speed or idle. You have already turned the L screw clockwise one complete turn, potentially trying to enrich the fuel-air mixture.

Turning the L screw clockwise increases the amount of fuel in the mixture, making it ‘richer.’ While this action often increases engine power, it can lead to other issues if not carefully balanced. I’d recommend watching the performance closely after making any adjustments here.

After noticing the cut-off issues with my gas-powered chainsaw, I took it to the shop to either get it fixed or exchange it. I was so happy to get parking close to the shop. The mechanic was happy to help and assured me he could fix it.

If not, he mentioned that I could exchange it for a new one. This experience made me realize the importance of regular maintenance to keep my gas-powered chainsaw in good condition.

● Chainsaw Idling without Stalling

Despite the cutting issue, it is a good sign that your chainsaw can idle without stalling. This typically indicates that the basic settings for idling are correctly adjusted. However, if it can idle but cannot work optimally under load, the issue could lie with either the high-speed adjustments or a worn-out part.

● Seeking the Right Solution

Now that we have reviewed the scenario, let’s work towards finding the right solution. These are technical issues that, if understood and treated correctly, can get your chainsaw back to working condition again.

● Tuning the Carburetor

For chainsaws that can idle without stalling but have cutting issues, one solution could be tuning the carburetor correctly.

Since you already adjusted the L screw, that comprises one-third of the carburetor adjustment. The other two screws – H (High speed) and LA (idle speed) may also need adjustment to rectify the issue.

● Maintaining Adequate Bar Oil Level

It is also crucial to maintain a proper chain-bar oil level. A lack of adequate lubrication on the chain and bar might make your chainsaw cut poorly; hence, keep a check on the bar oil.

● Inspect and Replace Worn-Out Parts

If the problem persists despite adjusting the screws and cleaning the filter, check the chainsaw for worn-out parts like the guide bar or the chain. Worn-out parts can create issues in cutting, and replacing them can often fix those issues immediately.

● Trusting the Experts

Sometimes, it can be more effective to consult a chainsaw expert or a service professional to diagnose and fix the problem. There are resources available that might help you find a local expert, such as the trade schools listing from the U.S. Department of Education.

● Taking Care of Your Chainsaw

There is something satisfying about identifying and repairing your chainsaw’s issues. However, regular maintenance can prevent future plausible issues.

Ensuring your chainsaw is clean, the screws are correctly adjusted, and the filter is clear will help keep your Stihl 026 chainsaw running happily for a long time.

The Stihl 026, like all chainsaws, can pose some challenges from time to time. But with the correct understanding, maintenance, and troubleshooting, you could solve most issues and return to the work you love.