Stihl Chainsaw Not Staying Running: Causes and Solutions

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Updated in April 2025 | By John

Stihl Chainsaw Won’t Stay Running

Your Stihl chainsaw is a powerful tool that can make quick work of any cutting job. But when it won’t stay running, it can be a major pain. There are a number of reasons why your chainsaw might not be running, but don’t worry, we’re here to help. In this article, we’ll discuss the most common reasons why chainsaws won’t stay running and how to fix them. So if your chainsaw is giving you trouble, read on for some helpful tips!

Why Won’T My Stihl Chainsaw Stay Running

There are a few reasons why your Stihl chainsaw might not be staying running.

Low oil level:

Make sure the oil level is correct. If the oil level is too low, the chainsaw will not be able to lubricate itself properly and will eventually overheat and stop running.

Clogged air filter:

A clogged air filter will restrict the airflow to the engine, causing it to run lean and eventually stall. Clean the air filter regularly to prevent this problem.

Dirty spark plug:

A dirty spark plug will not be able to generate a spark strong enough to ignite the fuel, causing the chainsaw to misfire and eventually stop running. Clean the spark plug regularly to prevent this problem.

Bad fuel:

Using old or bad fuel can cause the chainsaw to run poorly and eventually stop running. Make sure you are using fresh, clean fuel in your chainsaw.

Engine problems:

If the engine is damaged or worn out, it may not be able to run properly. In this case, you will need to have the engine repaired or replaced.

Why Won’t My Stihl Chainsaw Stay Running?

Possible Causes

There are a number of possible causes for a Stihl chainsaw not staying running. These include:

Low fuel: If the chainsaw’s fuel tank is empty, it will not run. Make sure to fill the tank with fresh fuel before operating the chainsaw.

Dirty air filter: A dirty air filter can restrict airflow to the engine, causing it to run poorly or not at all. Clean the air filter according to the manufacturer’s instructions.

Clogged carburetor: A clogged carburetor can also prevent the chainsaw from running properly. Clean the carburetor according to the manufacturer’s instructions.

Bad spark plug: A bad spark plug can prevent the chainsaw from firing. Replace the spark plug with a new one.

Engine problems: If the chainsaw’s engine is damaged, it may not be able to run properly. Have the engine inspected by a qualified technician.

Troubleshooting Steps

If your Stihl chainsaw is not staying running, you can troubleshoot the problem by following these steps:

1. Check the fuel level. If the fuel tank is empty, fill it with fresh fuel.
2. Clean the air filter. Remove the air filter and clean it with a clean, dry cloth.
3. Check the carburetor. Remove the carburetor cover and look for any debris or obstructions. Clean the carburetor according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
4. Replace the spark plug. Remove the spark plug and inspect it for damage. If the spark plug is damaged, replace it with a new one.
5. Have the engine inspected. If the chainsaw’s engine is damaged, have it inspected by a qualified technician.

Preventative Maintenance

You can help prevent your Stihl chainsaw from not staying running by following these preventive maintenance tips:

Keep the fuel tank full: Running the chainsaw with a low fuel level can damage the carburetor.

Clean the air filter regularly: A dirty air filter can restrict airflow to the engine, causing it to run poorly or not at all.

Service the carburetor regularly: A clogged carburetor can prevent the chainsaw from running properly. Have the carburetor serviced according to the manufacturer’s instructions.

Replace the spark plug regularly: A bad spark plug can prevent the chainsaw from firing. Replace the spark plug with a new one every 50 hours of operation.

Have the engine inspected regularly: A damaged engine can prevent the chainsaw from running properly. Have the engine inspected by a qualified technician every year.

By following these tips, you can help keep your Stihl chainsaw running smoothly and prevent it from not staying running.

Also Read THis: Reasons Why My Dewalt Chainsaw Battery Operated Would Not Work

FAQs: Why Won’t My Stihl Chainsaw Stay Running?

What are the most common reasons why a Stihl chainsaw won’t stay running?

The carburetor is dirty or out of adjustment: This is the most common cause of a chainsaw not staying running. The carburetor mixes fuel and air in the correct proportions to create a combustible mixture. If the carburetor is dirty or out of adjustment, the mixture will be incorrect and the chainsaw will not run properly.

The spark plug is fouled: A fouled spark plug can also cause a chainsaw to not stay running. The spark plug creates the spark that ignites the fuel/air mixture in the cylinder. If the spark plug is fouled, it will not be able to create a spark and the chainsaw will not run.

The fuel filter is clogged: A clogged fuel filter can restrict the flow of fuel to the carburetor, causing the chainsaw to run lean and not stay running.

The air filter is dirty: A dirty air filter can restrict the flow of air to the carburetor, causing the chainsaw to run rich and not stay running.

The engine is overheating: If the engine is overheating, it will not be able to run properly. Overheating can be caused by a number of factors, including a dirty air filter, a clogged spark arrestor, or a faulty cooling system.

How do I fix a Stihl chainsaw that won’t stay running?

1. Check the carburetor: If the carburetor is dirty or out of adjustment, it can be cleaned or adjusted. 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. To adjust the carburetor, you will need to turn the idle screw and the high speed screw until the chainsaw runs smoothly.
2. Check the spark plug: If the spark plug is fouled, it can be cleaned or replaced. To clean the spark plug, you will need to remove it from the chainsaw and use a spark plug cleaner to clean the electrodes. To replace the spark plug, you will need to unscrew the old spark plug and screw in a new one.
3. Check the fuel filter: If the fuel filter is clogged, it can be replaced. To replace the fuel filter, you will need to locate the fuel filter and unscrew it. Then, you will need to screw in a new fuel filter.
4. Check the air filter: If the air filter is dirty, it can be cleaned or replaced. To clean the air filter, you will need to remove it from the chainsaw and use a vacuum cleaner to remove the dirt and debris. To replace the air filter, you will need to remove the old air filter and install a new one.
5. Check the engine for overheating: If the engine is overheating, you will need to fix the problem that is causing the overheating. To check for overheating, you will need to feel the engine after it has been running for a while. If the engine is hot to the touch, it is overheating. To fix the overheating problem, you will need to clean the air filter, clean or replace the spark arrestor, or fix the cooling system.

What should I do if my Stihl chainsaw still won’t stay running after I have tried all of these steps?

If your Stihl chainsaw still won’t stay running after you have tried all of these steps, you should take it to a qualified service technician. The technician will be able to diagnose the problem and fix it.

How can I prevent my Stihl chainsaw from not staying running?

You can prevent your Stihl chainsaw from not staying running by following these tips:

Keep the carburetor clean and adjusted: A dirty or out-of-adjustment carburetor can cause the chainsaw to not stay running.

Replace the spark plug regularly: A fouled spark plug can also cause the chainsaw to not stay running.

Change the fuel filter regularly: A clogged fuel filter can restrict the flow of fuel to the carburetor, causing the chainsaw to run lean and not stay running.

Clean the air filter regularly: A dirty air filter can restrict the flow of air to the carburetor, causing the chainsaw to run rich and not stay running.

Prevent the engine from overheating: Overheating can cause the chainsaw to not run properly.

By following these tips, you can help prevent your Stihl chainsaw from not staying running.

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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