Hard to Start....

Hard to Start…

by Tim Ard, Forest Applications Training, Inc.

A few changes to the newer saws regarding starting procedures have made old habits into new problems. You might want to do the unusual and read your operator’s manual to find the answer to many complaints from saw operators as to their saw being hard to start. 

I’ve noticed in training workshops there are those that have trouble starting the chainsaw. Some of the troubles can be related to the frequency of use. They simply forget the sequence of events to start the saw between operation times or they are unfamiliar with the saw brand or type. Some problems in starting however are because of the misunderstanding of the switch and starting procedures. We often overlook the need for basic instruction to prevent frustration - Like look at the manual or familiarize the operator with basic controls. If we are never taught correctly it definitely leads down a frustrating path. 

I also find that operators think it takes pull after pull of the starter cord to finally fire up the saw. I watch operators pull until totally exhausted - 20 pulls and still no running saw. I have adopted a rule of thumb in my starting procedures that works well for me… If you pull 7 times and it hasn't fired and or is running, there is something wrong. This helped me to develop the following process below and it’s usually very close to the instructions from the manufacturer’s operation manual.  Also, make sure the unit is properly adjusted. An improperly adjusted carburetor can make for a non productive and possibly unsafe operation. A simple 5 step run check can be found on our website www.ForestApps.com or check the run procedures in your manufacture’s operators manual. Know how your equipment should run.

ALWAYS use Proper Protective Equipment when starting and or operating a hand held piece of power equipment.

If the engine has not been started (cold engine) -  

First make sure the proper mix of fresh fuel is in the tank and the air filter is clean. If the unit has an OFF/ON switch make sure it is in the ON position. Newer units may not have an OFF position. The engine is killed by momentarily pushing the switch to OFF. This makes it impossible to forget to turn the switch on but remember the engine could start by just simply pulling the starter cord.

Apply the Chain Brake. Make sure the cutting attachment is clear of all people and objects.

Pull out the CHOKE lever. Or move the control lever to the CHOKE/START position.

Assume the proper starting position, holding the saw firmly. 

Pull the starting cord until a slight pop it heard or the engine tries to run (no more than 7 pulls).

Push in the CHOKE lever or the control lever up one position to the fast idle position. 

Pull the starting cord again till the engine runs (no more than 7 pulls). If the engine starts in fast idle, simple depress the throttle trigger and release it to idle down. You don’t want to leave the engine idling fast with the chain brake engaged but don't release the chain brake with the engine in fast idle as the chain will spin. Slow the engine first by a quick press and release of the throttle trigger.

Release the chain brake and you're ready for work.

If the engine is warm and has been started (or you are unsure) - 

First make sure the proper mix of fresh fuel is in the tank and the air filter is clean. If the unit has an OFF/ON switch make sure it is in the ON position. Newer units may not have an OFF position. The engine is killed by momentarily pushing the switch to OFF. This makes it impossible to forget to turn the switch on but remember the engine could start by just simply pulling the starter cord.

Apply the Chain Brake. Make sure the cutting attachment is clear of all people and objects.

Assume the proper starting position, holding the saw firmly. 

Pull the starting cord (no more than 7 times), the engine should start and idle. 

If it doesn't start, pull out the CHOKE lever and push it back in or the control lever down and back up one position to the fast idle position. (Do not pull the starting cord in the CHOKE position of a warm engine. It will flood the engine and make starting even harder).

Pull the starting cord until the engine runs (no more than 7 pulls). If the engine starts in fast idle, simple depress the throttle trigger and release it to idle down. You don’t want to leave the engine idling fast with the chain brake engaged but don't release the chain brake with the engine in fast idle as the chain will spin. Slow the engine first by a quick press and release of the throttle trigger.

Release the chain brake and you're ready for work.

If it doesn't start with the warm start procedure go back to the cold start procedure above.

The Future!

I have been "building on the basis" the past few years (now that I'm aging more every day) that the key to a great training system is to pass it along to key people to supply the knowledge to the masses. With the increasing need of safe, efficient chainsaw operators in storm cleanup, recreational trails, parks, Tree Care, forest management and fire control - employers and organizations are striving to build efficient and cost effective training. In the onset, many are finding without utilizing simplistic training formats that information becomes overwhelming and is not used in the workplace and especially not passed along in the workplace efficiently. I feel this is likely because of the comfort level of the student to instruct and the lack of time planning to maximize the training to co-workers.

I have been involved in preparing instructors in chainsaw applications, safety and maintenance for over 30 years. Not bragging, but I have had some effect on just about every instructor out there in chainsaw training companies today. Those that have chosen to use the simple instruction techniques that Soren Eriksson instilled in me, have all done an awesome job in reducing chainsaw industry accidents and incidents across the country and are profitable doing it.

These instructor techniques are available to key chainsaw operators and communicators in your organization and or company. 

I would like to discuss with you how we can maximize chainsaw operator safety and productivity in your future!  Concepts and cost can vary.... don't hesitate to contact us today. info@ForestApps.com