Your Chainsaw Isn’t Working? Here’s Why (and How to Fix It!)

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Updated in April 2025 | By John

Satisfactory Chainsaw Not Working

A chainsaw that doesn’t work is a major inconvenience. It can prevent you from completing important tasks, such as cutting firewood or clearing brush. It can also be dangerous, as a chainsaw that is not functioning properly can be more difficult to control.

If your chainsaw is not working, there are a few things you can check to try to troubleshoot the problem. In this guide, I will discuss some of the most common causes of chainsaw problems and how to fix them. I will also provide tips on how to prevent future problems.

By following these steps, you can quickly diagnose and resolve the issue, so you can get back to using your chainsaw.

Why Satisfactory Chainsaw Not Working

1. No spark

Faulty spark plug
Loose or damaged spark plug wire
Faulty ignition coil
Bad fuel
Clogged fuel filter
Dirty carburetor

2. Chain is too tight

The chain will not move freely and will cause the saw to stall.
To loosen the chain, use the chain tensioner located on the side of the saw.
Turn the tensioner clockwise to loosen the chain.
Be careful not to over-tighten the chain, as this can damage the saw.

3. Chain is too loose

The chain will slap against the bar and cause the saw to stall.
To tighten the chain, use the chain tensioner located on the side of the saw.
Turn the tensioner counterclockwise to tighten the chain.
Be careful not to over-tighten the chain, as this can damage the saw.

4. Bar is dull

A dull bar will cause the saw to work harder and will eventually lead to damage to the saw.
To sharpen the bar, use a chainsaw file.
Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for sharpening the bar.

5. Chain is damaged

A damaged chain will cause the saw to work harder and will eventually lead to damage to the saw.
To replace the chain, use a new chain that is the same size and pitch as the old chain.
Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for replacing the chain.

6. Oiler is not working

The oiler is responsible for lubricating the chain and bar.
If the oiler is not working, the chain will become dry and will eventually wear out.
To check the oiler, look for oil dripping from the bar.
If no oil is dripping, the oiler may be clogged or broken.
To fix the oiler, clean the clogged oiler or replace the broken oiler.

How to Troubleshoot: Chainsaw Not Working

Symptoms

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

The chainsaw won’t start
The chainsaw starts but won’t stay running
The chainsaw runs but won’t cut through wood
The chainsaw makes a strange noise

Causes

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

A dirty or clogged carburetor
A faulty spark plug
A problem with the air filter
A problem with the fuel line
A problem with the chain
A problem with the engine

Troubleshooting

If your chainsaw is not working properly, you can try to troubleshoot the problem yourself. Here are a few things you can check:

Check the carburetor. If the carburetor is dirty or clogged, it can prevent the chainsaw from starting or running properly. To clean the carburetor, you will need to remove it from the chainsaw and follow the manufacturer’s instructions.
Check the spark plug. A faulty spark plug can also prevent the chainsaw from starting or running properly. To check the spark plug, you will need to remove it from the chainsaw and inspect it for damage. If the spark plug is damaged, you will need to replace it.
Check the air filter. A dirty or clogged air filter can restrict the flow of air to the engine, which can cause the chainsaw to run poorly or not at all. To check the air filter, you will need to remove it from the chainsaw and inspect it for dirt or debris. If the air filter is dirty, you will need to clean it or replace it.
Check the fuel line. A problem with the fuel line can prevent the chainsaw from getting enough fuel to run properly. To check the fuel line, you will need to inspect it for leaks or blockages. If you find a leak or blockage, you will need to repair or replace the fuel line.
Check the chain. A dull or damaged chain can make it difficult for the chainsaw to cut through wood. To check the chain, you will need to inspect it for wear and tear. If the chain is dull, you will need to sharpen it. If the chain is damaged, you will need to replace it.
Check the engine. A problem with the engine can prevent the chainsaw from starting or running properly. To check the engine, you will need to inspect it for damage. If you find damage, you will need to repair or replace the engine.

Preventative Maintenance

The best way to avoid problems with your chainsaw is to perform regular preventative maintenance. This includes:

Cleaning the carburetor regularly
Replacing the spark plug regularly
Cleaning the air filter regularly
Replacing the fuel line regularly
Sharpening the chain regularly
Maintaining the engine properly

By following these simple tips, you can help keep your chainsaw running smoothly and efficiently for years to come.

FAQs: Chainsaw Not Working

Why is my chainsaw not working?

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

The chain is dull. A dull chain will not be able to cut through wood effectively, and it may also cause the chainsaw to overheat. To check if your chain is dull, try to slice through a piece of wood. If the chain struggles to cut through, it is time to sharpen it.
The chain is too tight. If the chain is too tight, it will not be able to move freely around the bar. This can cause the chain to skip and jump, which can be dangerous. To check if your chain is too tight, try to move it up and down the bar. If it is difficult to move, it is too tight.
The chain is too loose. If the chain is too loose, it will be more likely to come off the bar. This can be dangerous, as it can cause the chain to fly into the air. To check if your chain is too loose, try to move it up and down the bar. If it is too loose, it will move around too much.
The bar is bent. If the bar is bent, it will not be able to guide the chain properly. This can cause the chain to skip and jump, which can be dangerous. To check if your bar is bent, try to sight down the bar. If it is not straight, it is bent.
The sprocket is worn out. The sprocket is the gear that drives the chain. If the sprocket is worn out, it will not be able to turn the chain properly. This can cause the chain to skip and jump, which can be dangerous. To check if your sprocket is worn out, try to turn it by hand. If it is difficult to turn, it is worn out.

What can I do to fix my chainsaw?

Once you have identified the problem with your chainsaw, you can take steps to fix it. Here are some tips:

Sharpen the chain. If the chain is dull, you can sharpen it using a chainsaw file. Be sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions for sharpening your particular chainsaw.
Adjust the chain tension. If the chain is too tight or too loose, you can adjust it using the chainsaw’s tensioning mechanism. Be sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions for adjusting the chain tension.
Replace the chain. If the chain is too damaged to be sharpened, you will need to replace it. Be sure to purchase a chain that is compatible with your chainsaw.
Replace the bar. If the bar is bent, you will need to replace it. Be sure to purchase a bar that is compatible with your chainsaw.
Replace the sprocket. If the sprocket is worn out, you will need to replace it. Be sure to purchase a sprocket that is compatible with your chainsaw.

How can I prevent my chainsaw from not working?

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

Keep the chain sharp. A sharp chain will cut through wood more easily and will not wear out as quickly.
Adjust the chain tension properly. A properly tensioned chain will not skip or jump.
Inspect the chain and bar regularly. Look for signs of wear and tear, such as dull teeth or a bent bar.
Store your chainsaw properly. When you are not using your chainsaw, store it in a cool, dry place.
Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for maintenance and care. The manufacturer’s instructions will provide specific information on how to maintain and care for your chainsaw.

What should I do if my chainsaw is still not working?

If you have tried all of the above and your chainsaw is still not working, you may need to take it to a qualified chainsaw repair technician. A technician will be able to diagnose the problem and make the necessary repairs.

Additional resources

[Chainsaw Safety Tips](https://www.thesprucecrafts.com/chainsaw-safety-tips-591117)
[How to Sharpen a Chainsaw Chain](https://www.hunker.com/12543636/how-to-sharpen-a-chainsaw-chain)
[How to Adjust the Chain Tension on a Chainsaw](https://www.homedepot.com/c/ah/how-to-adjust-

Next Post to Read: Stihl Chainsaw Oiler Not Working

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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