Why Does My Chainsaw Keep Shutting Off? | 5 Common Causes

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Updated in April 2025 | By John

Your Chainsaw Keeps Shutting Off Here’s Why

Your chainsaw is a powerful tool that can be used for a variety of tasks, from cutting down trees to clearing brush. But what happens when your chainsaw keeps shutting off It can be frustrating and even dangerous.

In this article, we’ll take a look at some of the most common reasons why chainsaws shut off, and we’ll provide some tips on how to fix the problem. So if your chainsaw is giving you trouble, read on for help!

Why Does My Chainsaw Keeps Shutting Off

Why does my chainsaw keeps shutting off?

There are a few reasons why your chainsaw might keep shutting off.

Low oil level:

Make sure the oil level is correct. If the oil level is too low, the chainsaw will shut off to prevent damage to the engine.

Clogged air filter:

A clogged air filter can restrict airflow to the engine, causing it to overheat and shut down. Clean or replace the air filter as needed.

Dirty spark plug:

A dirty spark plug can cause the chainsaw to misfire and shut down. Clean or replace the spark plug as needed.

Bad fuel:

Using old or bad fuel can cause the chainsaw to run poorly and shut down. Make sure you are using fresh, clean fuel.

Engine problems:

If the engine is damaged or worn out, it may not be able to run properly and may shut down. Have the engine inspected by a qualified technician.

Why Does My Chainsaw Keep Shutting Off?

There are a few reasons why your chainsaw might keep shutting off.

The chain is too tight:
If the chain is too tight, it will put too much strain on the engine and cause it to overheat. This can lead to the chainsaw shutting off. To check the chain tension, use a chain tension gauge. The chain should be tight enough so that it doesn’t move side to side, but not so tight that it’s difficult to turn the handsaw.

The chain is too loose:
If the chain is too loose, it will jump off the bar and cause the chainsaw to shut off. To check the chain tension, use a chain tension gauge. The chain should be tight enough so that it doesn’t move side to side, but not so tight that it’s difficult to turn the handsaw.

The carburetor is dirty:
If the carburetor is dirty, it will cause the chainsaw to run lean and eventually shut off. To clean the carburetor, you will need to remove it from the chainsaw and disassemble it. Use a carburetor cleaner to clean the jets and passages. Be sure to reassemble the carburetor correctly.

The spark plug is fouled:
If the spark plug is fouled, it will not be able to generate a spark and the chainsaw will not start. To check the spark plug, remove it from the chainsaw and inspect it. The electrode should be clean and free of carbon deposits. If the spark plug is fouled, you will need to replace it.

The air filter is dirty:
If the air filter is dirty, it will restrict the airflow to the carburetor and cause the chainsaw to run lean. To check the air filter, remove it from the chainsaw and inspect it. The air filter should be clean and free of dirt and debris. If the air filter is dirty, you will need to clean it or replace it.

The fuel filter is clogged:
If the fuel filter is clogged, it will restrict the flow of fuel to the carburetor and cause the chainsaw to run lean. To check the fuel filter, remove it from the chainsaw and inspect it. The fuel filter should be clean and free of debris. If the fuel filter is clogged, you will need to replace it.

The engine is overheating:
If the engine is overheating, it will shut down to prevent damage. There are a few things that can cause the engine to overheat, such as:
Running the chainsaw at too high a speed for too long
Running the chainsaw with a dirty air filter
Running the chainsaw with a clogged fuel filter
Running the chainsaw with a faulty spark plug
Running the chainsaw with a low oil level

To prevent the engine from overheating, you should:

Run the chainsaw at a moderate speed
Keep the air filter clean
Keep the fuel filter clean
Replace the spark plug regularly
Check the oil level regularly and add oil as needed

If you are having trouble troubleshooting your chainsaw, you can take it to a qualified chainsaw repair shop.

Also Read THis: Why Does My Chainsaw Keeps Stalling

FAQs: Why Does My Chainsaw Keep Shutting Off?

What are the most common reasons why a chainsaw keeps shutting off?

The chain is too tight: If the chain is too tight, it will put too much strain on the engine and cause it to overheat. This can lead to the chainsaw shutting off.

The chain is too loose: If the chain is too loose, it will not be able to grip the wood properly and will cause the chainsaw to stall.

The carburetor is dirty: A dirty carburetor can cause the chainsaw to run lean, which means that it is not getting enough fuel. This can lead to the chainsaw shutting off.

The spark plug is fouled: A fouled spark plug can cause the chainsaw to misfire, which can lead to the chainsaw shutting off.

The air filter is dirty: A dirty air filter can restrict the flow of air to the engine, which can cause the engine to overheat and shut off.

How can I fix a chainsaw that keeps shutting off?

Check the chain tension: If the chain is too tight, loosen it until it is just snug against the bar. If the chain is too loose, tighten it until it is snug against the bar.

Clean the carburetor: Use a carburetor cleaner to clean the carburetor. Be sure to follow the directions on the cleaner carefully.

Replace the spark plug: If the spark plug is fouled, replace it with a new one.

Clean the air filter: Remove the air filter and clean it with a clean cloth or compressed air.

Check the fuel filter: If the fuel filter is dirty, replace it with a new one.

What should I do if my chainsaw still keeps shutting off after I have tried all of these fixes?

If your chainsaw still keeps shutting off after you have tried all of these fixes, it is possible that there is a more serious problem with the chainsaw. In this case, you should take it to a qualified chainsaw repair technician for diagnosis and repair.

How can I prevent my chainsaw from shutting off?

Keep the chain properly tensioned: The chain should be just snug against the bar.

Keep the carburetor clean: Clean the carburetor regularly to prevent it from becoming dirty.

Replace the spark plug regularly: Replace the spark plug every 50 hours of use.

Clean the air filter regularly: Clean the air filter every 25 hours of use.

Check the fuel filter regularly: Check the fuel filter every 50 hours of use and replace it if it is dirty.

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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