Your Electric Chainsaw Motor Is Not Working? Here’s Why!

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Updated in April 2025 | By John

Electric Chainsaw Motor Not Working

Electric chainsaws are a powerful and versatile tool that can be used for a variety of tasks, from cutting firewood to trimming trees. However, like any other tool, electric chainsaws can malfunction. One of the most common problems is a chainsaw motor that won’t start. This can be a frustrating and inconvenient issue, but it’s important to remember that it’s usually a simple fix.

In this troubleshooting guide, I’ll walk you through the steps to diagnose and resolve the issue of an electric chainsaw motor that won’t start. I’ll also provide tips on how to prevent this problem from happening in the future. By following these steps, you can quickly get your chainsaw back up and running so you can continue on with your project.

Why Electric Chainsaw Motor Not Working

No Power

The chainsaw is not plugged in or the power cord is damaged.
The switch is turned off.
The circuit breaker is tripped.
The chainsaw’s battery is dead.
The battery is not properly connected to the chainsaw.

Chainsaw Motor Won’t Start

The spark plug is dirty or damaged.
The air filter is dirty or clogged.
The carburetor is dirty or out of adjustment.
The fuel line is clogged.
The engine is flooded.

Chainsaw Motor Is Running But Not Cutting

The chain is dull or damaged.
The chain is not properly tensioned.
The guide bar is bent or damaged.
The chainsaw is not lubricated properly.

Chainsaw Motor Is Overheating

The chainsaw is being used for too long at a time.
The chainsaw is not properly ventilated.
The chainsaw’s air filter is dirty or clogged.
The chainsaw’s carburetor is dirty or out of adjustment.

Chainsaw Motor Is Making Strange Noises

The chainsaw’s chain is rubbing against the guide bar.
The chainsaw’s chain is too loose.
The chainsaw’s chain is too tight.
The chainsaw’s sprockets are worn out.
The chainsaw’s crankshaft is damaged.

How to Troubleshoot: Electric Chainsaw Motor Not Working

Your electric chainsaw is a powerful tool that can be used for a variety of tasks, from cutting firewood to trimming trees. However, if the motor on your chainsaw stops working, it can be a major inconvenience. There are a few common causes for this problem, and by troubleshooting the issue, you can usually get your chainsaw up and running again in no time.

Symptoms of a Chainsaw Motor Not Working

There are a few different symptoms that can indicate that the motor on your chainsaw is not working properly. These include:

The chainsaw won’t start
The chainsaw starts but dies immediately
The chainsaw starts but runs slowly
The chainsaw makes a strange noise when it runs
The chainsaw’s chain doesn’t move

Causes of a Chainsaw Motor Not Working

There are a number of different things that can cause the motor on your chainsaw to stop working. These include:

A faulty spark plug. The spark plug is responsible for igniting the fuel in your chainsaw’s engine. If the spark plug is faulty, it can prevent the engine from starting or running properly.
A dirty air filter. The air filter prevents dirt and debris from entering the engine. If the air filter is dirty, it can restrict airflow to the engine, which can cause it to run poorly or not at all.
A clogged fuel filter. The fuel filter prevents dirt and debris from entering the fuel system. If the fuel filter is clogged, it can restrict the flow of fuel to the engine, which can also cause it to run poorly or not at all.
Low oil level. The oil in your chainsaw lubricates the engine and helps to keep it cool. If the oil level is low, it can cause the engine to overheat and eventually fail.
A bad starter motor. The starter motor is responsible for turning the engine over. If the starter motor is bad, it can prevent the engine from starting.
A bad battery. The battery provides power to the starter motor. If the battery is bad, it can prevent the starter motor from working properly.

Troubleshooting a Chainsaw Motor Not Working

Once you have identified the symptoms of your chainsaw motor not working, you can begin troubleshooting the issue. Here are a few steps to help you get started:

1. Check the spark plug. Remove the spark plug and visually inspect it for damage. If the spark plug is black and sooty, it is dirty and needs to be cleaned or replaced. If the spark plug is cracked or damaged, it needs to be replaced.
2. Check the air filter. Remove the air filter and visually inspect it for dirt and debris. If the air filter is dirty, it needs to be cleaned or replaced.
3. Check the fuel filter. Remove the fuel filter and visually inspect it for dirt and debris. If the fuel filter is clogged, it needs to be cleaned or replaced.
4. Check the oil level. Check the oil level in your chainsaw’s crankcase. If the oil level is low, add oil until it reaches the full mark on the dipstick.
5. Check the starter motor. If the starter motor is not working properly, it will need to be replaced.
6. Check the battery. If the battery is not providing enough power to the starter motor, it will need to be replaced.

Conclusion

By following these steps, you can usually troubleshoot a chainsaw motor not working issue and get your chainsaw up and running again in no time. If you are unable to troubleshoot the issue yourself, you can always take your chainsaw to a qualified repair shop for assistance.

FAQs: Electric Chainsaw Motor Not Working

Why is my electric chainsaw motor not working?

There are a few possible reasons why your electric chainsaw motor may not be working. Here are some of the most common causes:

The motor is not getting power. Make sure that the chainsaw is plugged into an outlet that is working properly. If the outlet is working, try a different outlet. You can also check the power cord to make sure that it is not damaged.
The motor is overheating. If the chainsaw motor is overheating, it will automatically shut down to prevent damage. Allow the chainsaw to cool down for a few minutes before trying to use it again.
The motor is jammed. If the chainsaw is jammed, it will not be able to start. Try to clear the jam by removing any debris from the chainsaw’s cutting bar.
The motor is worn out. If the chainsaw motor is old or has been used heavily, it may be worn out and need to be replaced.

How do I fix an electric chainsaw motor that is not working?

Once you have determined the cause of the problem, you can try to fix the electric chainsaw motor. Here are some tips:

If the motor is not getting power, check the outlet and power cord. If the outlet is working and the power cord is not damaged, you may need to replace the motor.
If the motor is overheating, allow it to cool down for a few minutes before trying to use it again. If the motor continues to overheat, you may need to replace it.
If the chainsaw is jammed, try to clear the jam by removing any debris from the chainsaw’s cutting bar. If the jam cannot be cleared, you may need to take the chainsaw to a repair shop.
If the motor is worn out, you may need to replace it. You can purchase a replacement motor from a hardware store or online retailer.

How can I prevent my electric chainsaw motor from not working?

There are a few things you can do to prevent your electric chainsaw motor from not working:

Use the chainsaw properly. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for use and maintenance.
Avoid overheating the motor. Do not operate the chainsaw for extended periods of time without letting it cool down.
Keep the chainsaw clean and free of debris. Clean the chainsaw’s cutting bar and chain regularly to prevent jams.
Store the chainsaw properly. When not in use, store the chainsaw in a cool, dry place.

What should I do if my electric chainsaw motor is not working and I can’t fix it myself?

If you have tried to fix the electric chainsaw motor yourself and you are unsuccessful, you may need to take the chainsaw to a repair shop. A qualified technician will be able to diagnose the problem and repair or replace the motor.

Where can I find replacement parts for my electric chainsaw motor?

You can find replacement parts for your electric chainsaw motor at a hardware store or online retailer. When purchasing replacement parts, make sure that you order the correct parts for your chainsaw model.

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About The Author

I am John, and I am the creator of this website. I have been in the woodworking industry for about 5 years. I developed my passion for DIY projects around the house when I was in high school. I have discovered a new appreciation for those who have the experience to pass along their expertise. They know what works best and are able to help others. I am proud to be among them.

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