If you own a chainsaw, you probably know how important it is to ensure your engine is in good working order. One of the components that play a key role in keeping an engine running well is the spark plug. But do spark plugs go bad with age?
The answer is yes! Spark plugs can wear out over time if they become dirty or damaged. This can happen due to a variety of reasons, such as heavy use or improperly maintained chainsaws.
Spark plugs do go bad with age as their electrodes wear down over time due to normal use and exposure to heat and vibration from the internal combustion process.
What Are Spark Plugs?
A spark plug is an essential part of the internal combustion process that powers your small engine.
The spark plug works by creating an electrical connection between the connections in your chainsaw and the spark plug wire, allowing for the mixture of fuel and air to ignite in your chainsaw.
Without this electrical connection, your chainsaw engine would not be able to create the powerful spark needed for fuel ignition and combustion.
It is important to keep your spark plugs clean and in good condition so that they can work reliably and efficiently.
How Long Do Spark Plugs Last?
The answer depends on what type of spark plug you have installed in your chainsaw. Standard copper-core plugs will typically last anywhere from 100 to 200 hours before needing to be replaced, while platinum-tipped plugs can last up to 400 hours.
This is only true, however, if the spark plugs are well-maintained and serviced regularly. If they are not serviced or maintained properly, they can fail much sooner than expected.
What Causes Spark Plugs to Wear Out?
The main reason why spark plugs wear out over time is that they are exposed to heat and other elements inside the engine. When a spark plug gets too hot, it will cause the metal within the plug to expand.
This can result in cracks or breaks that decrease its effectiveness and can lead to it not firing correctly anymore.
Over time carbon buildup on the electrodes of the plug can also cause misfires and prevent your chainsaw engine from performing at its best.
These electrodes will become worn down until eventually, they cannot create an adequate electrical connection between the chainsaw and the spark plug wire. This results in misfires or a complete lack of ignition in your engine – which can cause it to stall or not start at all.
If you notice any signs of diminished performance from your chainsaws – such as hard starting or poor acceleration – it may be time for a new set of spark plugs.
It’s important to note that these issues are often caused by poor maintenance habits, such as not changing oil regularly or not replacing air filters when needed.
Checking Your Chainsaw Spark Plug
Fortunately, there are some easy steps you can take to check if your spark plug is still in working condition.
First, remove it from the chainsaw’s engine and inspect it for any visible signs of corrosion or damage. If it looks corroded or damaged in any way, replace it with a new one immediately as this could be causing your issues with performance or starting your engine.
You should also check that all connections between the spark plug and wires are secure. Loose wires can prevent electricity from reaching the combustion chamber and causing misfires.
Finally, measure its voltage output using an ohmmeter; ideally you want your spark plug to have an output between 10-18 volts for optimal performance.
Final Thoughts
It’s important for chainsaw owners to understand whether their spark plugs go bad with age and how often they should be replaced for optimal performance of their engines.
If you notice any signs of diminished performance from your chainsaw such as hard starting or failure to start then it may be time for a new set of spark plugs.
Regularly checking and maintaining your chainsaw’s parts is essential for keeping it running smoothly over time. It will also help ensure that your spark plugs last longer so that you get the most out of your chainsaw’s performance.
