A flooded chainsaw is a common problem with two-cycle engines. When your chainsaw floods, it’s usually because too much fuel has been delivered to the engine.
If you’re having difficulty starting your Stihl chain saw, make sure you are using the choke correctly. Closing the choke allows extra fuel to enter the combustion chamber when you pull the starter. However, if after a few pulls there is still no ignition, too much fuel has accumulated and caused flooding. In this case, continuing to try and start the engine will only make matters worse.
To prevent flooding in the future, avoid using a heavy hand when mixing gas and oil. While most chainsaws require a 50-to-1 fuel mixture, excessive oil can cause starting problems and fuel waste. If you are having difficulty starting your Stihl chain saw, check the manual to confirm this is the correct ratio.
One other tip to prevent flooding is to simply avoid overfilling the gas tank. If you are filling up your chain saw just before use, be sure not to fill it all the way. This will ensure that extra fuel has a place to go if it leaks into the carburetor during storage.
The good news is that you can fix a flooded chainsaw relatively easily. The following steps will show you how.
- Step 1 – For safe operation, always place the chain saw on level ground and make sure the chain brake is turned on. Also, be sure to disconnect the wire from the spark plug before using a spark plug wrench to remove it. If there is fuel build-up on the electrodes, use a clean cloth to wipe it off, then reinstall the spark plug.
- Step 2 – Make sure that your air filter is clean and free of debris, if you notice any dirt or buildup carefully use a small brush to remove it.
- Step 3 – Check the fuel system for leaks.
- Step 4 – Open the master control lever to the minimum position. Clear fuel out of the combustion chamber by pulling the starting rope three to five times.
- Step 5 – Once you’ve done all these checks, put the air filter back in. You also need to replace the spark plug and reconnect the wire. Then, turn the master control lever to full open and pull the starting rope a few times. If all goes well, your chainsaw should start up without any issues.
What causes a chainsaw engine to flood?
All machines require proper care and maintenance, no matter how big or small they may be. Chainsaws are delicate in spite of their power, so much so that one incorrect move could easily break them or cause them to flood.
There are a few common causes of chainsaw flooding, such as dirty air filters, clogged fuel lines, or poor fuel mixing. Other factors that may contribute to chainsaw engine flooding include incorrect choke settings, soggy spark plug, incorrect oil levels, and too much fuel in the tank.
To avoid flooding and other problems with your chainsaw, it is important to regularly clean and maintain the air filters and fuel system. You should also follow all manufacturer recommendations for mixing oil and fuel, as well as make sure that the spark plug is functioning properly.
Will a flooded chainsaw fix itself?
If your chainsaw gets flooded, you might be wondering if it will fix itself.
The answer is yes but it also depends on the underlying cause of the flooding. Setting your chainsaw down on a level surface for 30 minutes or so may allow the fuel to dissipate and prevent any further damage.
Other causes of engine flooding, such as a clogged air filter or improper fueling, will require more precise steps to resolve.
If you are having trouble fixing your flooded chainsaw on your own, it is best to consult a professional mechanic or repair technician who has experience working with these machines. With the right tools and knowledge, they should be able to help you identify the root cause of your problem and get your chainsaw running properly again.
Conclusion
If your Stihl chainsaw is constantly flooding, take it to a professional mechanic for a tune-up.
A poorly adjusted carburetor, clogged air filter, or other problems in the engine can cause excess fuel and prevent the chainsaw from running properly. Just remove the spark plug, clear away any excess fuel, check the air filter, and crank the engine slowly until it starts up again.
By taking the time to address these issues, you can ensure that your chainsaw always starts up quickly and reliably.