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 Here’s Why and How to Fix It

A chainsaw is a powerful tool that can be used for a variety of tasks, from cutting down trees to clearing brush. But when your chainsaw won’t start, it can be a major pain. There are a few common reasons why a chainsaw might not start, and with a little troubleshooting, you can usually get it up and running again in no time.

In this blog post, we’ll discuss the most common reasons why a chainsaw won’t start, and we’ll provide step-by-step instructions on how to fix each problem. So if your chainsaw is giving you trouble, read on for help!

Why Chainsaw Won’T Start

Here are 5 reasons why your chainsaw won’t start:

1. The chain brake is engaged:
Make sure the chain brake is disengaged before trying to start the chainsaw.

2. The chainsaw is out of gas:
Check the fuel tank and add gas if necessary.3. The spark plug is fouled:
Remove the spark plug and clean it with a spark plug cleaner.

4. The carburetor is dirty:
Clean the carburetor according to the manufacturer’s instructions.

5. The chainsaw is not getting spark:
Check the spark plug wire and make sure it is connected to the spark plug. Also, check the ignition coil for damage.

Why Won’t My Chainsaw Start?

There are a few different reasons why your chainsaw might not start.

1. The spark plug is fouled.

The spark plug is responsible for igniting the fuel in your chainsaw’s engine. If the spark plug is fouled, it won’t be able to produce a spark, and your chainsaw won’t start. To check the spark plug, remove it from the engine and visually inspect it. If the electrodes are covered in black soot, the spark plug is fouled and needs to be replaced.

2. The air filter is dirty.

The air filter prevents dirt and debris from entering the engine. If the air filter is dirty, it will restrict the airflow to the engine, which can cause the engine to stall or not start at all. To check the air filter, remove it from the engine and visually inspect it. If the filter is dirty, replace it with a new one.

3. The carburetor is out of adjustment.

The carburetor is responsible for mixing the fuel and air in the correct proportions. If the carburetor is out of adjustment, it can cause the engine to run too rich or too lean, which can both lead to starting problems. To adjust the carburetor, you will need to consult your chainsaw’s owner’s manual.

4. The fuel is old or stale.

Old or stale fuel can cause starting problems. If you haven’t used your chainsaw in a while, it’s a good idea to drain the old fuel from the tank and replace it with fresh fuel.

5. The engine is flooded.

If you’ve flooded your chainsaw’s engine, it won’t start. To clear the flood, turn the chainsaw off and wait a few minutes for the excess fuel to evaporate. Then, try starting the chainsaw again.

If you’ve tried all of these things and your chainsaw still won’t start, it’s possible that there’s a more serious problem with the engine. In this case, you should take your chainsaw to a qualified service technician for repairs.

Also Read THis: Why Chainsaw Won’T Stay Running

FAQs: Why Won’t My Chainsaw Start?

Why won’t my chainsaw start when I pull the cord?

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

The spark plug is fouled: Remove the spark plug and clean it with a spark plug cleaner.

The carburetor is dirty: Clean the carburetor according to the manufacturer’s instructions.

The air filter is dirty: Clean or replace the air filter.

The chainsaw is not getting spark: Check the spark plug wire for damage or corrosion. If the spark plug wire is damaged, replace it. If the spark plug wire is not damaged, check the spark plug for damage or corrosion. If the spark plug is damaged, replace it.

Why won’t my chainsaw start when I push the primer bulb?

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

The carburetor is flooded: Turn the chainsaw off and let it sit for a few minutes. Then, try starting it again.

The air filter is dirty: Clean or replace the air filter.

The chainsaw is not getting spark: Check the spark plug wire for damage or corrosion. If the spark plug wire is damaged, replace it. If the spark plug wire is not damaged, check the spark plug for damage or corrosion. If the spark plug is damaged, replace it.

Why won’t my chainsaw start when I turn the ignition switch?

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

The spark plug is fouled: Remove the spark plug and clean it with a spark plug cleaner.

The carburetor is dirty: Clean the carburetor according to the manufacturer’s instructions.

The air filter is dirty: Clean or replace the air filter.

The chainsaw is not getting spark: Check the spark plug wire for damage or corrosion. If the spark plug wire is damaged, replace it. If the spark plug wire is not damaged, check the spark plug for damage or corrosion. If the spark plug is damaged, replace it.

Why does my chainsaw start and then die?

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

The carburetor is dirty: Clean the carburetor according to the manufacturer’s instructions.

The air filter is dirty: Clean or replace the air filter.

The chainsaw is not getting enough air: Check the air filter for damage or blockage. If the air filter is damaged or blocked, clean or replace it.

The chainsaw is not getting enough fuel: Check the fuel line for damage or blockage. If the fuel line is damaged or blocked, replace it.

Why does my chainsaw make a loud popping noise when I start it?

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

The carburetor is flooded: Turn the chainsaw off and let it sit for a few minutes. Then, try starting it again.

The air filter is dirty: Clean or replace the air filter.

The chainsaw is not getting enough air: Check the air filter for damage or blockage. If the air filter is damaged or blocked, clean or replace it.

The chainsaw is not getting enough fuel: Check the fuel line for damage or blockage. If the fuel line is damaged or blocked, replace it.

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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