Stihl Chainsaw 20 In Bar Kill Switch Not Working

The kill switch on a chainsaw is a critical safety feature that prevents the engine from running when the saw is not in use. If the kill switch is not working properly, it can be a major safety hazard. A chainsaw that cannot be turned off could continue to run even after the operator has released the trigger, posing a risk of injury.

In this guide, we will discuss the common causes of a Stihl chainsaw 20 in. bar kill switch not working and provide steps on how to troubleshoot and resolve the problem. We will also offer tips on how to prevent this issue from happening in the future.

By following the steps in this guide, you can quickly diagnose and resolve the issue of a Stihl chainsaw 20 in. bar kill switch not working, restoring functionality to your tool and helping to keep you safe.

Most Common Reasons Of Stihl Chainsaw 20 In Bar Kill Switch Not Working

Most Common Reasons Of Stihl Chainsaw 20 In Bar Kill Switch Not Working

1. Loose or damaged wiring

The kill switch is a simple electrical switch that is activated by a lever on the chainsaw handle. If the wiring to the kill switch is loose or damaged, it can prevent the switch from working properly. To check the wiring, disconnect the spark plug wire and turn the chainsaw on. If the chainsaw still runs, the wiring is bad and needs to be replaced.

2. Faulty kill switch

The kill switch itself can also fail. If the switch is not making good contact, it will not be able to turn off the chainsaw. To check the kill switch, disconnect the spark plug wire and turn the chainsaw on. Use a multimeter to check for continuity between the two terminals of the switch. If there is no continuity, the switch is bad and needs to be replaced.

3. Debris in the switch

Debris can also prevent the kill switch from working properly. If dirt or sawdust gets into the switch, it can cause the switch to stick or become misaligned. To clean the switch, remove the cover and use a small brush to clean out any debris.

4. Bent or damaged lever

The lever on the chainsaw handle that activates the kill switch can become bent or damaged. If the lever is not aligned properly, it will not be able to activate the switch. To check the lever, remove the cover and inspect it for damage. If the lever is bent or damaged, it needs to be replaced.

5. Faulty chainsaw engine

In some cases, the kill switch may not work properly due to a problem with the chainsaw engine itself. If the engine is not getting enough fuel or air, it may not be able to start properly. This can cause the kill switch to stick or become misaligned. To troubleshoot this problem, you will need to have the chainsaw engine inspected by a qualified technician.

How to Troubleshoot: Stihl Chainsaw 20 in. Bar Kill Switch Not Working

Symptoms of a Stihl Chainsaw Kill Switch Not Working

There are a few telltale signs that your Stihl chainsaw kill switch may not be working properly. These include:

The chainsaw won’t start when you press the start button.
The chainsaw starts but immediately dies when you release the start button.
The chainsaw starts but runs erratically, even when the throttle is set to low.
The chainsaw won’t stop running when you press the kill switch.

Causes of a Stihl Chainsaw Kill Switch Not Working

There are a number of potential causes for a Stihl chainsaw kill switch not working properly. These include:

A faulty kill switch.
A damaged or corroded kill switch wire.
A problem with the chainsaw’s ignition system.

How to Troubleshoot a Stihl Chainsaw Kill Switch

To troubleshoot a Stihl chainsaw kill switch, follow these steps:

1. Inspect the kill switch. Look for any signs of damage or corrosion. If the kill switch is damaged, it will need to be replaced.
2. Check the kill switch wire. Disconnect the kill switch wire from the chainsaw’s ignition system. Use a multimeter to check for continuity between the two ends of the wire. If there is no continuity, the wire will need to be replaced.
3. Check the ignition system. If the kill switch and wire are both in good condition, the problem may be with the chainsaw’s ignition system. To test the ignition system, you will need to remove the spark plug and connect it to a spark plug tester. Crank the engine over and watch for a spark. If there is no spark, the ignition system will need to be repaired or replaced.

How to Fix a Stihl Chainsaw Kill Switch

If the kill switch is damaged, it will need to be replaced. To replace the kill switch, follow these steps:

1. Remove the old kill switch. Locate the kill switch on the chainsaw. There will be a small screw or nut holding the kill switch in place. Remove the screw or nut and carefully remove the old kill switch.
2. Install the new kill switch. Align the new kill switch with the mounting hole. Insert the screw or nut and tighten it until the kill switch is secure.
3. Test the kill switch. Turn the chainsaw on and off to make sure the kill switch is working properly.

Preventing Stihl Chainsaw Kill Switch Problems

You can help prevent Stihl chainsaw kill switch problems by following these tips:

Keep the kill switch clean and free of debris.
Avoid damaging the kill switch.
Inspect the kill switch regularly for signs of wear and tear.
Replace the kill switch if it is damaged or worn out.

By following these tips, you can help keep your Stihl chainsaw running smoothly and safely.

FAQs: Stihl Chainsaw 20 in. Bar Kill Switch Not Working

What could be causing my Stihl chainsaw 20 in. bar kill switch not to work?

There are a few possible causes for a Stihl chainsaw 20 in. bar kill switch not to work. These include:

A faulty kill switch: The kill switch is a small lever located on the front of the chainsaw. If this lever is not properly engaged, the chainsaw will not start. To check if the kill switch is faulty, try disengaging and re-engaging it. If the chainsaw still does not start, the kill switch may need to be replaced.
A loose or damaged wire: The kill switch is connected to the chainsaw’s engine by a wire. If this wire is loose or damaged, the kill switch will not be able to properly engage the engine. To check if the wire is loose or damaged, inspect it carefully. If the wire is damaged, it will need to be replaced.
A faulty engine: If the engine itself is faulty, the kill switch may not be able to properly engage it. To check if the engine is faulty, try starting the chainsaw without using the kill switch. If the chainsaw starts and runs normally, the engine is likely not the problem.

How do I fix a Stihl chainsaw 20 in. bar kill switch that is not working?

If your Stihl chainsaw 20 in. bar kill switch is not working, you can try to fix it yourself or take it to a qualified technician. Here are the steps on how to fix a Stihl chainsaw 20 in. bar kill switch:

1. Locate the kill switch. The kill switch is a small lever located on the front of the chainsaw.
2. Disengage the kill switch. To disengage the kill switch, simply push the lever up.
3. Inspect the kill switch. Look for any damage to the lever or the wire connected to it. If the kill switch is damaged, it will need to be replaced.
4. Replace the kill switch. If the kill switch is damaged, you can purchase a replacement kill switch from a Stihl dealer or online retailer. To replace the kill switch, simply remove the old kill switch and install the new one.
5. Re-engage the kill switch. Once the kill switch has been replaced, re-engage it by pushing the lever down.

What are the safety risks of using a Stihl chainsaw 20 in. bar with a kill switch that is not working?

If the kill switch on your Stihl chainsaw 20 in. bar is not working, there are a number of safety risks that you should be aware of. These include:

The chainsaw could start unexpectedly. If the kill switch is not working, the chainsaw could start unexpectedly if you bump the throttle or if the chainsaw is dropped. This could result in serious injury or death.
The chainsaw could continue to run even if you release the throttle. If the kill switch is not working, the chainsaw could continue to run even if you release the throttle. This could result in serious injury or death if you try to stop the chainsaw by hand.
The chainsaw could be difficult to control. If the kill switch is not working, the chainsaw could be difficult to control, especially if it starts unexpectedly or if it continues to run even after you release the throttle. This could result in serious injury or death.

What should I do if my Stihl chainsaw 20 in. bar kill switch is not working?

If your Stihl chainsaw 20 in. bar kill switch is not working, you should take the following steps:

1. Stop using the chainsaw immediately. If the kill switch is not working, the chainsaw could start unexpectedly or could continue to run even if you release the throttle. This could result in serious injury or death.
2. Inspect the kill switch. Look for any damage to the lever or the wire connected to it. If the kill switch is damaged, it will need to be replaced.
3. Try to fix the kill switch yourself. If you are comfortable working on chainsaws, you can try to fix the kill switch yourself. However, if you are not comfortable working on chainsaws, you should take the chainsaw to a qualified technician.
4. Have the kill switch replaced. If you are unable to fix the kill switch yourself, you should have it replaced by a qualified technician.

How can I prevent my Stihl chainsaw 20 in. bar kill switch from not working?

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