Why Your Chainsaw Won’t Start (And How to Fix It)

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Updated in April 2025 | By John

Chainsaw Won’t Start

Your chainsaw is a powerful tool that can make quick work of cutting through wood. But when it won’t start, it can be a major pain. There are a few common reasons why a chainsaw might not start, and in this blog post, we’ll take a look at some of the most common causes and how to fix them. So if your chainsaw is giving you trouble, read on for some helpful tips!

Why Chainsaw Won T Start

There are many reasons why a chainsaw won’t start. Here are a few of the most common:

Dirty or clogged carburetor:

The carburetor is responsible for mixing fuel and air in the correct proportions. If it is dirty or clogged, the chainsaw will not start or will run poorly.

Bad spark plug:

The spark plug provides the spark that ignites the fuel/air mixture in the cylinder. If the spark plug is bad, the chainsaw will not start.

Low oil level:

The chainsaw needs oil to lubricate the moving parts. If the oil level is low, the chainsaw will not start.

Bad fuel:

If the fuel is old or stale, it can cause the chainsaw to not start.

Incorrectly adjusted carburetor:

The carburetor needs to be adjusted properly for the type of fuel and the altitude at which you are using the chainsaw. If the carburetor is not adjusted correctly, the chainsaw will not start or will run poorly.

Why Chainsaw Won’t Start

Chainsaw Won’t Start: Causes

There are a number of reasons why a chainsaw might not start. Here are some of the most common causes:

Fuel:

Make sure that the chainsaw has fuel in the tank and that the fuel is fresh. Old fuel can gum up the carburetor and prevent the chainsaw from starting.

Spark plug:

If the spark plug is fouled or damaged, it will not be able to generate a spark, which is necessary to start the chainsaw.

Chainsaw chain:

If the chainsaw chain is too tight, it will not be able to move freely and will cause the chainsaw to stall. If the chainsaw chain is too loose, it will come off the sprocket and could cause injury.

Chainsaw carburetor:

The carburetor is responsible for mixing the fuel and air in the correct proportions. If the carburetor is not adjusted properly, it can cause the chainsaw to run poorly or not start at all.

Chainsaw air filter:

The air filter prevents dirt and debris from entering the carburetor. If the air filter is dirty, it can restrict the flow of air to the carburetor and cause the chainsaw to run poorly or not start at all.

Chainsaw Won’t Start: Solutions

Once you have identified the cause of the problem, you can take steps to fix it. Here are some solutions for each of the common causes of a chainsaw not starting:

Fuel:

If the chainsaw does not have fuel, add fuel to the tank. If the fuel is old, drain the tank and replace it with fresh fuel.

Spark plug:

If the spark plug is fouled or damaged, remove the spark plug and clean it with a spark plug cleaner. If the spark plug is damaged, replace it with a new spark plug.

Chainsaw chain:

If the chainsaw chain is too tight, loosen the chain tensioner until the chain is loose enough to move freely. If the chainsaw chain is too loose, tighten the chain tensioner until the chain is snug against the sprocket.

Chainsaw carburetor:

If the carburetor is not adjusted properly, you will need to adjust the carburetor. There are many resources available online that can help you adjust the carburetor on your chainsaw.

Chainsaw air filter:

If the air filter is dirty, remove the air filter and clean it with a clean, dry cloth. If the air filter is damaged, replace it with a new air filter.

Preventing Chainsaw Problems

The best way to prevent chainsaw problems is to properly maintain your chainsaw. Here are some tips for maintaining your chainsaw:

Always use fresh fuel:
Old fuel can gum up the carburetor and cause problems.

Clean the spark plug regularly:
A dirty spark plug can cause the chainsaw to run poorly or not start at all.

Adjust the chain tension regularly:
A too-tight chain can cause the chainsaw to stall, while a too-loose chain can come off the sprocket.

Clean the air filter regularly:
A dirty air filter can restrict the flow of air to the carburetor and cause the chainsaw to run poorly or not start at all.

Store your chainsaw in a dry, cool place:
Storing your chainsaw in a damp or hot environment can damage the engine and other components.

By following these tips, you can help prevent chainsaw problems and keep your chainsaw running smoothly.

Also Read THis: Why Chainsaw Won’T Cut

FAQs: Why Won’t My Chainsaw Start?

Why won’t my chainsaw start?

There are a few reasons why your chainsaw might not start. Here are some of the most common causes:

The chainsaw is out of gas: Make sure that the chainsaw has gas in the tank and that the gas cap is properly closed.

The spark plug is fouled: The spark plug is responsible for igniting the fuel in the chainsaw’s engine. If the spark plug is fouled, it will not be able to create a spark and the chainsaw will not start. To clean the spark plug, remove it from the chainsaw and use a wire brush to clean the electrodes.

The carburetor is dirty: The carburetor is responsible for mixing the fuel and air in the correct proportions. If the carburetor is dirty, it will not be able to mix the fuel and air properly and the chainsaw will not start. To clean the carburetor, you will need to remove it from the chainsaw and disassemble it. Use a carburetor cleaner to clean the parts and reassemble the carburetor.

The air filter is dirty: The air filter prevents dirt and debris from entering the chainsaw’s engine. If the air filter is dirty, it will restrict the flow of air to the engine and the chainsaw will not start. To clean the air filter, remove it from the chainsaw and use a vacuum cleaner to clean it.

The chainsaw is not getting spark: If the chainsaw is not getting spark, it will not start. To check for spark, remove the spark plug from the chainsaw and hold it against the engine block. Crank the engine and look for a spark. If you do not see a spark, there is a problem with the chainsaw’s ignition system. You will need to take the chainsaw to a qualified technician to have it repaired.

What should I do if my chainsaw won’t start?

If your chainsaw won’t start, here are a few things you can try:

Check the gas tank: Make sure that the chainsaw has gas in the tank and that the gas cap is properly closed.

Check the spark plug: Remove the spark plug from the chainsaw and use a wire brush to clean the electrodes. If the spark plug is fouled, replace it with a new one.

Check the carburetor: If the carburetor is dirty, you will need to clean it.

Check the air filter: If the air filter is dirty, you will need to clean it.

Check for spark: Remove the spark plug from the chainsaw and hold it against the engine block. Crank the engine and look for a spark. If you do not see a spark, there is a problem with the chainsaw’s ignition system. You will need to take the chainsaw to a qualified technician to have it repaired.

How can I prevent my chainsaw from not starting?

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

Keep the chainsaw clean: Make sure to clean the chainsaw after each use. This will help to prevent dirt and debris from building up on the chainsaw and causing problems.

Store the chainsaw properly: When you are not using the chainsaw, store it in a cool, dry place. This will help to prevent the chainsaw from getting damaged.

Inspect the chainsaw regularly: Inspect the chainsaw regularly for signs of wear and tear. This will help you to identify any problems before they become serious.

Use the correct fuel: Make sure to use the correct fuel for your chainsaw. Using the wrong fuel can damage the chainsaw.

Follow the manufacturer’s instructions: Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions for operating and maintaining your chainsaw. This will help to keep your chainsaw running properly and prevent problems.

What are the signs that my chainsaw is about to break down?

There are a few signs that your chainsaw is about to break down:

The chainsaw is difficult to start: If the chainsaw is difficult to start, it may be a sign that the carburetor is dirty or the spark plug is fouled.

The chainsaw is losing power: If the chainsaw is losing power, it may be a sign that the air filter is dirty or the carburetor is not adjusted properly.

The chainsaw is making strange noises: If the chainsaw is making strange noises, it may be a sign that there is a problem with the engine.

The chainsaw is leaking oil: If the chainsaw is leaking oil, it may be a sign that there is a problem with the oil pump or the oil seal.

If you notice any

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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