How do I tune my chainsaw

Before you start the saw, locate a small flat-bladed screwdriver. … Begin by checking the saw’s air filter. … Check the fuel level. … Start the engine and warm it up. … Begin by setting the idle speed. … Set the low speed fuel adjustment. … Go back to step (4) and reset the idle speed.

How do you adjust a chainsaw carburetor?

1. Before you start the saw, locate a small flat-bladed screwdriver. …
2. Begin by checking the saw’s air filter. …
3. Check the fuel level. …
4. Start the engine and warm it up. …
5. Begin by setting the idle speed. …
6. Set the low speed fuel adjustment. …
7. Go back to step (4) and reset the idle speed.

What is the H and L on a carburetor?

They are typically labeled L (low speed jet), H (high speed jet), and I (idler jet).

Why does my chainsaw stall when I give it gas?

Carburetor Adjustment An engine stalls when it’s getting too much or not enough fuel from the carburetor. Stihl chainsaw carburetors usually have three adjustment screws: one each for idle, low speed and high speed. If the saw stalls while it’s idling, adjusting the idle screw, which usually is marked LA, should help.

Why does my chainsaw dies at full throttle?

If your chainsaw engine dies at full throttle, check the following parts: the carburetor, fuel lines, fuel filter, air filter, and muffler. … When the carb becomes clogged (which is often the result of old fuel sitting in it over a long period of time, like over the winter), it will not perform this task effectively.

How do you adjust the high and low on a Husqvarna chainsaw?

1. Locate the idle-speed screw and the idle-mixture screws on the side of the chainsaw. …
2. Turn both the low- and high-speed screws clockwise to the midpoint. …
3. Adjust the low-idle screw clockwise and counterclockwise respectively, until you find the highest idling speed.

Why does my chainsaw run then stop?

A clogged carburetor is often caused by leaving fuel in the chainsaw for a long period of time. Over time, some of the ingredients in the fuel may evaporate, leaving behind a thicker, stickier substance. This sticky fuel can clog up the carburetor and cause the chainsaw engine to stall.

What does a spark arrestor do on a chainsaw?

The spark arrestor on your chainsaw prevents dangerous hot sparks from igniting fires while you’re working. If the arrestor is clogged or dirty, however, it will also prevent exhaust from leaving the motor, which can prevent it from running.

How tight should a chainsaw chain be?

A properly-tensioned chainsaw chain should still be just a little loose on the chainsaw guide bar, but the chain needs to be tight enough that you can’t pull the drive links out of the bar nose.

Why does my Stihl chainsaw bog down when I give it gas?

The Job of the Carburetor Without the right amount of air and fuel in the piston cylinder, the 2-cycle engine in a Stihl chain saw runs inefficiently and the saw loses power. … When the saw bogs down during cutting, it’s usually the high-speed screw you need to adjust.

Article first time published on

How do you clean a chainsaw fuel filter?

Brush the air filter gently with a soft brush or wash it in warm soapy water then dry it. Do not use compressed air to clean it – compressed air can blow holes in the filter, allowing dust and debris into your carburetor.

What does the T stand for on a chainsaw?

The letters on the screws represent High (H), Low (L) and Idle (T). The H screw regulates the Air/Fuel mix during high RPMs, while the L Screw does the same during low RPMs. The T screw regulates how much fuel is sent to the carburettor while idling until the throttle is pressed.

How do you use a tachometer on a chainsaw?

Record the engine speed with the tachometer. Look up your chain saw’s maximum safe speed in the operator’s manual. If the tachometer reads more than that speed, turn the “H” screw counterclockwise until the speed falls below the maximum safe speed value.

Can you run a chainsaw without bar oil?

Running a chainsaw without bar oil will cause mechanical problems, and some serious safety issues, such as: Kickback. Chain failure. Dulls the chain.

How do you adjust a Stihl carburetor?

Turn the H screw clockwise with a carburetor adjustment tool until the head is spinning as fast as it will go, then back off the screw carefully until the RPMs start to decrease. Turn the screw slowly clockwise again until the engine once again just starts to pick up speed.

How do I know if my chainsaw spark plug is bad?

1. Black, chunky carbon buildup spanning the gap between the sparking end of the plug and the hook-shaped metal piece overhanging the end.
2. Dark carbon residue built up on the ends but not spanning the gap.

How do I keep my chainsaw running well?

1. Keep It Clean. The more you use your chainsaw, the more likely you’ll see debris stuck to it, from sawdust and tree sap to globs of oil. …
2. Sharpen the Blades. A dull chainsaw just won’t do. …
3. Make Sure Your Chainsaw Is Lubricated. …
4. Use New Gas.

How do you fix a chainsaw that won't idle?

1. Make Sure Choke is Off.
2. Air Filter Clogged.
3. Bad Gas.
4. Fuel Line and/or Filter Clogged.
5. Fouled Spark Plug.
6. Primer Bulb is Clogged or Leaking.
7. Idle Ports are Clogged.
8. High/Low Screws and Adjustment Idle Screw Needs Calibrating.

How often should you change the bar on a chainsaw?

If you are looking for a general idea for how often you should replace a chainsaw bar, a rule of thumb is to replace the bar of your chainsaw once after you have gone through three chains on the same bar.

How many hours does a chainsaw chain last?

PitchGaugeLifespan1/4”.0.050”Around 4-5 years3250.050”Around 4-5 years3250.050”Around 4-5 years3250.058”Around 4-5 years

Is it OK to remove spark arrestor?

You can safely remove the spark arrestor or even install an aftermarket exhaust system on many ATVs without having to make alterations to your jetting because they are normally set up to run a bit rich from the factory, but this is no general rule!

Do I need a spark arrestor on my chainsaw?

Chainsaw manufacturers include a spark arrestor on every model to prevent combustion byproducts from escaping the combustion chamber during saw operation and starting a fire. … To access the spark arrestor, you’ll probably have to remove the muffler.

Why does my chainsaw bog down when I start cutting?

Many chainsaw operators first notice a problem with chainsaws bogging down when they’re using the chainsaw under load, and this is usually the result of poor air circulation. This issue is caused by a clogged air filter on the chainsaw. … Wash the air filter in soapy water until the air filter comes completely clean.

How do I know if my chainsaw fuel filter is bad?

1. Poor Engine Performance.
2. Hard Starting.
3. Stalling.
4. Random Misfire or Rough Idle.
5. Fuel System Part Failures.

How do I know if my fuel filter is clogged?

1. Trouble Starting the Engine. The most common sign of a clogged fuel filter is trouble starting the car, since it depletes the oil supply going to the engine. …
2. Issues Accelerating. …
3. Frequent Idling and Sputtering. …
4. Strong Odors. …
5. Engine Misfires/Low Performance. …
6. When to Replace the Fuel Filter.

What does LA mean on Stihl chainsaw?

One marked “H”, for high speed, one marked “L”, for low speed and one marked “LA”, which is your low speed air adjustment for idle.

What's the difference between Stihl 170 and 171?

The MS 170 has a displacement of 1.80 cu. in., fuel capacity of 8.5 oz., chain oil capacity of 4.9 oz., and powerhead weight of 8.6 lbs. The MS 171 has a displacement of 1.94 cu. … Unlike the MS 170, it has tool-less fuel and oil caps with retainers and a side-access chain tensioner.