Chainsaw is HARD TO START? Try this EASY TRICK, especially on the BIG Stihl's, Echo's and Husqvarna!

Today we go over cold starting BIG saws and my tricks to make it WAY EASIER!!
Thanks for tuning back into Chickanic!
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My name is Bre. I took two years of small engine repair at the local college. When I left school, I fell into a wonderful job at a local small engine shop where I worked the counter for a couple years. In 2010 my husband and I opened up our own small engine shop in central Arkansas where I am able to work alongside my family and best friends. We see over 2,000 pieces of small engine equipment every year, and answer 1,000's of small engine questions. We specialize in brands such as Briggs and Stratton, Kohler, Echo and Shindaiwa, but work everyday on MANY other brands like Stihl, Husqvarna, Honda, Craftsman, Remington, Red Max, Troy Bilt, Scag, Bad Boy, Hustler, World Lawn, Poulan, Mantis, Etc.. Hopefully, my experience I share, will save you Time, Money and Frustration in the future!
DISCLAIMER: Links included in this description might be affiliate links. If you purchase a product or service with the links that I provide I may receive a small commission. There is no additional charge to you! Thank you for supporting my channel so I can continue to provide you with free content each week!
Although very informative, these videos are for entertainment purposes. Please use all possible safety precautions when repairing and operating your small engine equipment.
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[@Chickanic]

Thanks for Watching! Find a link to all of my "Must Have", Favorite Tools HERE!! www.amazon.com/shop/chickanic?ref_=cm_sw_r_cp_ud_aipsfshop_aipsfchickanic_9ERPFPBNGQ924P8NS63B

[@417plasma6]

I been bustin my butt trying to start my chainsaw, its been sitting since may, with my bad shoulder, itds been a serious pain to start...so i just did exactly what you just demonstrated, GUYS it turned over without breakin a sweat. it took 20 seconds a couple of short cranks..and there she is started right up...Girl you truly are one heck of a CHICKANIC ..... Thank you ma'am

[@clairehendrickson9335]

This tip has saved my shoulder! I'm a 65 year old lady that had a triple bypass about 2.5 years ago. Had to get slabwood for 2 years and a battery saw because I didnt have the strength to start my gas saws. Exercise, weights, time and this tip has got me back to cutting and splitting 14 cords for my winter wood. Thanks so much for the help!

[@SteeleMagnolia]

Just turned 60, and have used chainsaws for about thirty years. I stay super fit and take good care of myself, consuming lots of vegetables, and protein, with the hard days I put in on our property. There's no greater satisfaction than being self-sufficient.

[@m998hmmwv7]

Your hired 😂

[@timothyvotaw7517]

I just stumbled across your channel this a.m., saw your post on this topic, had to see it. Like a bunch of the commenters, I've some trigger time on saws. I grew up in rural western Oregon running chain saws, working in the woods about the same time I hit puberty, lol. Most of the years since, saws have been part of my life, all sizes, mostly "pro" saws. It's obvious just in this one post of yours how many readers gained a trick or two with saws from watching it. My compliments on your teaching chops. I'm an old mule, 76 now, been in harness many years, learned a lot. But I'm gonna subscribe & hit your bell, because I reckon I can keep learning, so might as well enjoy it, too. 🤙🏼

[@johncorbett3208]

I’m on Season 7 of watching Chickanic pull starting chainsaws. Awesome!

[@jackbaskin371]

At 80 I have been using chainsaws for a good number of DECADES and have been able to "muscle" thru a hard starting Stihl 460 that I got about 20 years back, that is until a couple years ago,. I have never had anyone be able to tell me how to make it easier to start. Thank you, even "old dogs" can learn something, and anyone who will not listen to a "woman" could be missing out on some really good information.

[@ladysg3767]

Good for you sir👍

[@roncar1761]

👍👍👍😊👏👏👏

[@Mr.A.1776]

👏🏼👏🏼👏🏼 Respect to you sir. Young man always learning from the experience and more veterans like your self, just like now. God bless.

[@stomper2582]

@@Mr.A.1776 yea, 72 here. I know you didn’t get to be 80 by being close minded. You have probably listened to a woman’s advice a lot in your life. 😊

[@paulbalogh4582]

460???? You dog!!!!

[@B4TS1]

When your foot is too big to fit in the handle, I use a a 1 foot long piece of 2x4 to hold the handle down and step on the board.

[@johnleon9475]

i also use that method to hold her down when starting

[@markb8954]

Same here, 👍

[@robertburns3014]

Good info. I wear boots when using my saw and the boots are too big to fit in the handle. So, I'll try the 2×4 method.

[@heikkiparviainen6084]

I step over the saw and put my heel on the plate. None of that where is that Fing piece of wood now BS.

[@paulreid2223]

😁😁👍👍👍👍

[@andyi9001]

Stumbled upon this video when I had difficulties starting my Dolmar 72cc. Now I follow the Chickanic method and it fires up every time. THANK YOU!!

[@VictorValco]

I had my Stihl serviced a couple of months ago but still had problems starting it…I watched numerous videos to figure it out…I watched yours, grabbed my saw and was shocked when it started on my 4th pull..amazing….thank you

[@loafandjug321]

Subscribed because this is the only video I've found that got my Husqvarna 455 Rancher to start. No throttle, no primer, no preasure relief, just turn the switch ON, 3 small pulls, hold the 3rd pull about 6 inches out on rope, pull the 4th pull really fast. Started on the first try. Thank you so much,.

[@Jetrod]

I was so frustrated while trying to start my brand new CS-590,that I was kicking it around my back patio. This video saved my pull starting arm and probably prevented me from breaking a foot or toe! Off topic, but if it's so much safer to start saws on the ground, manufacturers should make that handle area big enough for a steel toed work boot to fit in. I don't usually wear my Chuck Taylors when I'm doing tree work.

[@FiveCentsPlease]

+ Josh Jetrod For the Echo, I found that pulling with choke on until the first pop and then choke off will get it started nearly always. I could not figure out why it wouldn't start until I used that sequence.

[@ronind6004]

Did kicking it around the patio help it start ? :-)

[@skitidet4302]

They actually recommend the between the legs hold when starting it. I don't know if it's any good since I always drop start my saws unless they are flooded, in which case I put them on the ground and jam the throttle wide open with my steel toed sawing boots as best as I can since it doesn't really fit so I have to apply constant pressure with the toe. The danger with starting it on the ground is if you lose balance and your toe is stuck in the handle. As your leg instinctively tries to move forward to regain balance, your saw could move in ways that could potentially cut you. Like if you begin to tip forward, you want to put your right foot forward, if you have it in your saw and you are pushing down on it with your left hand, it won't move much. You will probably just tip over and land with your left thigh/knee on your bar.

[@madpogue]

@Jetrod +1; I was thinking the same thing @ 6:25 watching Bre put that pointy little Bobs slipper in there, thinking "when would I ever be wearing anything like that while starting a saw?"

[@karlrovey]

@@skitidet4302 Stihl recommends both the ground start methods and leg lock method in their manuals. The placement in the manual seems to suggest they prefer the ground start method.

[@jkc8259]

it takes a high IQ to simplify a good teacher is rare a great teacher is a gift from above and that you have pulled off like a champ my new go to thank you

[@damnyankeerebelprepper1324]

Much love and respect to you. The more I watch, the more I see one of the guys with smarts and common sense who happens to be a nice lady.

[@WillysPerformanceCycleCtr]

At 67 years old, I’ve been using chainsaws most of my life. This is a great tutorial and all new users should watch this! I have Echo, Stihl, and Husqvarna. All are easy to start using the method illustrated. Thanks for sharing this one.

[@jamesdavis8021]

I am 67 years old and I have a CS-590.They can be a little difficult to start but, I usually get it within 3 pulls. I will try this method.

[@allibani]

@@jamesdavis8021 do not start a chainsaw like that that is extremely dangerous what the Husqvarna how to start

[@jamesdavis8021]

I always make sure the chain is locked before trying to start.

[@allibani]

@@jamesdavis8021 I've been working for B.I.A fire for 8 years we have to do class every year for Sawyer qualifications and the proper way is to lock chain put the saw head in-between you legs and pull ground starting is dangerous because you have no control it's extremely dangerous and never drop start a chainsaw. Chainsaws are not a toy it's a very dangerous piece of equipment everyone should do a class on how to and not do before owning a chainsaw

[@allibani]

Also never where sandles when operating any equipment don't think I'm saying this to pick on women running saws there are some very good women sawyers on the fire line

[@daviddixon8915]

I rebuild and port professional 70+ cc saws all the time, and rolling the saw over several times makes starting these saws so much easier. I’ve been doing this for years and never gave it a second thought. Good job sharing these simple things that really do make life with your small engines easier.

[@johno3888]

Thanks Chickanic, finally someone that properly explains and includes the wheres and whyfores. I will watch this video over and over and commit its content to my memory !!! .....

[@bicdawg524]

Thank you your instructions to start up a chainsaw were very clear and work on the first try. My wife was so happy when I told her I got the instructions from a women .

[@buckpermenter7844]

I am an old man and all through my life I have contended that God did not intend for man to create a single cylinder engine. I have hated chain saws. Thanks to you and your videos I have learned how to do the upkeep on my saws and also how to start them. If you were close I would give you a big hug. You are my hero!!!

[@mlasch1478]

I mentioned this clip that has helped me in starting my saws at age 59, nearly 50 years after teaching myself 2 cycle equipment at 10 years old. Not only do I have a Stihl 044 that is a killer compression saw, but an MS660 and a few 111cc Stihl 075 beasts. I have the 111cc saws on my bench to rebuild top to bottom. I can't wait to be pulling them and finding the way to easily start them for my milling projects.

[@johnmcintyre3827]

I’m just turned 77 and I love what I’ve learned on your channel. I have 3 Stihl’s, that sit all winter, usually, my FS94 R, a MS250, and my favorite the MS192 TC and they are 10 yrs old. I came upon the pre-start compression pulls by accident. Of the 3, the FS94 when cold, takes the most umpf to cycle the piston on first start of the day. Then it’s light as a feather to restart. And all the tales about the MS250 are true. You gotta take it off choke after the 1st signs of a pop, then 3 pulls and it’s off to the races. Thanks for talking about these tools and showing how to diagnose problems with the carbs. Never too old to learn new tricks.

[@patrickgroves4047]

The best small engine mechanic I ever had, was a woman that her dad raised in the business. They closed down and I miss her. Finding you on KZbin was the best thing that happened to me as a do it yourself farm mechanic. Keep up the outstanding work. I wished I lived closer to your business. Thanks.

[@tomsommer54]

You really helped me with my Timberwolf. I was out cleaning up downed trees and I gave the TW another chance after watching your video. It performed fantastic. I did your starting procedure and wow, I have a new saw. I got almost 3 hours of use with the saw. I have had it for 3 years and didn’t even have a hour on it. You are the real deal. Thank you very much. I am now a subscriber.

[@bobmoore5242]

Love my 372xp but for most of the 20 years I've used it, I felt like it abused me by spending most of our start time flooded. Then with my 80th birthday rapidly approaching here comes this girl chainsaw mechanic and shows me (us) the easy way to start it. And for a bonus, showed me the fundamentals of how a chainsaw breaths and what a carburetor can do. Thanks Chickanic.

[@hnorrstrom]

My neighbour here in Sweden age 88 years borrowed my Husqvarna 372xpg with 20" bar and cut all trees that fell in a storm because it was easier to start than his old 1960's saws.

[@harpintn]

I discovered that trick by accident shortly after I bought my first saw. It is just a little Stihl MS250 but it was a pain to get it to turn over until I did exactly what you demonstrated while fighting with it. I have been doing that ever since.

[@user-sf4bh1ob2x]

Thanks for this video. I discovered how right you are about us old folks when I couldn't start my old Stihl 038, even though it was running the day before. Turned out two pulls from my 22-year-old grandson and it started just fine. I'm glad I didn't have to listen to any smart mouth comments, but the look he gave me said it all.

[@miketh2436]

I really like your videos! I’m a old retired small engine technician! I managed an Echo dealer for many years and starting chainsaws was one of my biggest customer complaints ! Your never too old to learn something new!

[@winstonadair3578]

Great video

[@ladysg3767]

👍

[@lynnepierce3676]

OMG thank you for your help in starting Echo Chainsaw. You saved me frustration👍😊 I am approaching age where my pull strength isn’t what it used to be but I’m determined enough to keep trying

[@johnsoto9996]

My echo 620 was flooded and I couldn't get it started. After watching your video, my chainsaw started on the 1st pull. Thank you for the help and keep making great videos.

[@felixmadison5736]

The Echo chain saw is the best I've ever owned, and I'd had many different brands over my 74 years. It was the easiest to start by far.

[@ricktipton9563]

I'm over 50 and not at all new to chainsaws. Quite a bit experienced in repairing and operating many different types of small engines. But I learned something from this video that makes great sense and I can't believe I had never known before. Pulling the cord slightly a few times to get the piston moving, and getting it set in place for an initial compression stroke, is one of the wisest things I've learned in awhile. Just using this simple tip is going to make my time with any 2 stroke engine a lot more productive and a whole lot less aggravating. Thanks so much for posting such a great and informative video.

[@robertobakero8865]

I grew up fixing chain saws (40 years ago) and never figured out the "pull it slow method" of prepping a saw to start. Thanks- I enjoy your videos !

[@user-vr6kb6co5o]

Honestly I could give you a huge hug. I very nearly slung the bloody thing in the bin, now I can start it with ease every time.

[@user-vr6kb6co5o]

Further to my last comment, what is important to remember is that this tutorial is mainly for large cc chainsaws. I have a husky rancher which starts easy any time, cold, hot, just put fuel in etc,etc. It was my larger cc chainsaw that was a pain to start and was less than a year old. Now though, no problem at all. Thank-you very much.

[@rodneykrone5004]

I have been operating chain saws for 50 years. I am always looking for tips and such. Like what you had to say and appreciate you helping people out. My dad is in his 80s and just dropped down to a Stihl 250 because his 036 and 026 were getting too hard to start. Now I have his saws as well. Thanks

[@mikesuch9021]

Great video haven't used a chainsaw in quite a few years I'm 61. Recently moved off the grid. My old chainsaw starts easier than I ever remember with your tips thank you.

[@REDMAN298]

Good tips. I`m an old Harley rider and learned to keep trying something different if it doesn`t start. Same with airplanes. My first airplane was hand prop only.

[@jeffcampbell2710]

My HD had a specific way. Kick only, higher compression, big cams. But it was a 2 kick, 3 kick cold, 1 kick hot. It used to flip people out. But, I credit the Dyna ignition and S&S carb for that.

[@jackreed1062]

Great info I've been using chainsaws for over 40 yrs my first big saw was a 042 stihl I was young then , now I have a 590 Echo I love it no problems starting it but I love the 2 - 3 easy pulls before really giving it a jerk to start its like a extra prime for the carb , thanks again.

[@davidhirschler5493]

Thanks for the tips! Funny how the kitty made a surprise appearance over the fence at the end of the video.

[@genegreear4183]

I just bought the 450 Husqvarna Rancher. I’m 75 years old. I know what your talking about and believe me. I feel it. I’ve been lucky so far. It’s been a really good saw and easy to start just by following their instructions. Enjoyed your video and hearing the truth. Later

[@Godwinpounds4333]

Hello 👋 Gene, how are you doing?

[@stephanM5]

Its perfectly logical to pull the cord just enough to get past the first compression stroke and from there to pull vigorously as you end up with greater momentum to generate adequate spark and less resistance to spinning the crankshaft. Kudos to you for identifying this fact.

[@bernardmauge8613]

I found that out with trial and error on mine. But I did not know why. She explained it!

[@radamson1]

On a two-stroke, every stroke is a compression stroke! The first couple of short strokes "primes" the engine.

[@stephanM5]

@@radamson1 yep that's true but in order identify a compression stroke when pulling the cord it's the first time to TDC hence the term first compression stroke. Hope that explains where I was coming from.

[@jasonlaughlin7438]

I have watched several of your videos. They have a lot of great information in them. It is so much more pleasing to watch you work on chainsaws than a hairy legged dude! The internet can’t have too many videos of you starting chainsaws!

[@Stuart68505]

Doing the full hard & fast pull to start it after getting past the first compression stroke is a new idea for me. The short pulls I have seen you do first have been helpful too. Thanks, Stuart

[@BrucePierson]

Great tips in your video. I mostly use 25cc saws, so they are a lo easier to start than the big ones. For what I do on our property, I don't need to use a big saw that often. I still have my Stihl 015L saw that I bought almost 50 years ago. I've done main bearings and seals and replaced the carburettor, but it's still running the original ring. All the best from Queensland Australia.

[@amtmomojoe]

I REALLY enjoy watching your videos. Thank you for the starting tip. What a difference it makes when starting a cold chain saw! I cannot begin tell you just how much you have saved me in time and money, performing my own maintenance and repairs on all my saws. I also appreciate your honesty when it comes to evaluating different saws. I was literally on the verge of buying a Neotec chainsaw when I saw your video and changed my mind. I guess there is a good reason why they cost so little (you get what you pay for). I ended up buying a Husqvarna 550 XP Mark II and yes, it was a lot more expensive than the Neotec but, I know it will last, runs and cuts like no other saw I have ever owned. Thanks again and keep posting!

[@aliciakolaya5312]

Absolutely the best advice ever! I tried for about an hour to get this Timberwolf 590 started again. Had it going working a minute with your advice. Thank you so much. 😊

[@amyoconnor1241]

I'm 66 year young grandma and after this video even I can start our chainsaw. Thank you so much, keep the videos coming.

[@bamagolds]

For ALL 2 stroke engines. If there is a working primer, press 6 times. While choked, lightly pull a couple of times and feel the piston rise. Pull it once like you mean it. If it cranks but turns off, count to 5. Set choke half and pull again. Ethanol free gas will make cranking much easier. I've found that an elevated, flat surface (such as a folding bench) works best...less likely to break the cord or injure oneself. Great demonstration video. Common reasons for not cranking/stay running: bad plug, bad switch, clog filter, clog exhaust/screen, clog carb jet/line, old gas, wrong oil, bad ignition, low compression.

[@juliemcrae2536]

Just tried this with Husqvana blower. Started after 3 pulls. Great advice and thank you so much.

[@gpweaver]

Just to emphasize: ETHANOL-FREE GAS WILL MAKE *EVERYTHING* EASIER! Spend the extra buck per gallon for your small engines, because it's a helluva-lot cheaper to spend an extra $4 a month on gas for your small engines, than to have to pay for new fuel lines/carburetor rebuilds every other year because the ethanol wrecked the flexible hoses and gaskets/flap valves.

[@Alexi7666]

I've been using E-15 fuel with Stihl 2-Cycle oil for years with no trouble.

[@dalemullen96]

If it runs well but will not start if you've just run out of gas and refilled, then what?

[@q-_-p.d-_-b]

​@@dalemullen96 No choke when engine is still warm.

[@redcanoe14]

Good video! The other thing that can make, in particular old power saws, hard to start is if the carburetor diaphragm is dried out or split. Most certainly those few steady pulls on the cord would help in this situation as well. Thanks again.

[@ljh45s]

Great job on how to start those saws, I been doing it for 40 years now you told them right, on how to due it, thanks for the post,

[@rogeratkinson592]

I'm 59 and bought the CS-590 a few months ago. It's my first chainsaw, and I never really had a reason to own one up until now. She's not lying.... Lay it on the ground and use for foot to crank it. I had been doing it that way the first few times I'd used it, but decided to try and crank it while standing up. I hit my knee very hard and I'll never try that stunt again. This was a great video.

[@stanmeyerjr2216]

CS590 is my favorite and has never failed me!! Of course, in the early days, I had to learn exactly what your video is all about. Great info for new buyers......and old stubborn ones too!

[@roblund8557]

I've been running a saw since age 10, mostly stihl. But that was something nobody ever showed me, pulling it over a couple times slowly then giving it. Makes total sense. Thanks for the tip.

[@Sandra-Armstrong]

Awesome video! I've officially switched to Ego battery-operated tools to take care of all my yardwork. My property is just over an acre, and other than chopping up big fallen branches or pruning, I don't regularly have too much chainsaw work on the property. Most of the chainsaw work I do is when I go out to chop up firewood to store for winter use. My little chainsaw performs beautifully! It cuts right thru the wood with no problem, and it's so nice to just squeeze the trigger and it immediately starts every time.

[@marklaine6050]

I have an Echo CS-510 EVL and am doing some serious maintenance on it and have it all apart and have been checking out KZbin videos and believe the starting issues I have experienced with it are related to the choke and pull start method. I have been studying all your videos and really appreciate your videos and they are enlightening. I think your videos will help me turn the corner on using this thing for my works. I thank you for your efforts.

[@481brighton]

Hi Bre, I've been watching your channel for about 2 years now and you're a great teacher. I want to say that I think you're a very kind person also, especially on what you said about why some can't start the chainsaw anymore. QUOTE: "Sometimes you get to an age where you just can't pull it hard enough anymore." That's my problem now. I'm close to 70 years old and age is having an affect on me. I've always worked on all of my own machines, but sometimes it does get difficult. Again, I just want to say thanks for being gentle with your words, it shows your compassion. Keep up the great work, I love watching your videos.

[@kencleg7721]

Good deal

[@williskirby9881]

Thank you for the information. I have a Stihl farm boss 290. I have had it for several years. I only use it every once in a long while. No more than I use it, I sometimes actually forget how to start it. If I don’t flood the engine it usually does start within about three to four pulls of the rope. I hope I can remember this the next time I use it. After each use I drain out all gas ( nothing but 100% gas,no ethanol),start it and let it run till it quits. Then place it on choke and let it run till it won’t run anymore. Take it apart,clean it throughly sharpen the chain if needed and reoil the chain and then store it till next time. Thanks for the videos,their very informative.

[@gunjiweber42]

Thank you so much. I'm 6'3" - 260lb & I was drenched in sweat after trying to start that brand new Echo. Your advice was perfect

[@RFTwo]

Excellent video! This technique really works. I really like my 800P, but have never cared for starting it. Doing it your way, it popped on the 2nd pull and started on the 3rd. Thanks for making my saw more enjoyable to use! You earned a sub with this one- looking forward to learning more from you in the future. Have a great day!

[@mikeandnoleane07]

always took two saw with me when going away from home so if the first one didn't want to restart after a refill I'd grab the other, I'll try your advice next time. BTW, great safety shoes to go along with the chaps. thanks for your tips, always helpful.

[@Eddie.D346]

HaHaHaaaa What's Safety Shoes.....To make sure you don't get any chips in your shoes?

[@mikeandnoleane07]

@@Eddie.D346 ???

[@Eddie.D346]

@@mikeandnoleane07 That's a joke

[@sethberry383]

You just saved the day, I was on the verge of returning a brand new Echo because it had NEVER started right up. I follow the manual to a T and end up spending an exhausting, frustrating half hour of cycling through that procedure before grabbing my axe... Or before it finally starts. Great work youre doing and thank you!

[@charlescobourn1364]

WOW! I just put a new spark plug and fuel filter into my Echo CS 680 and it only took one pull after following your steps to start it. Fired right up. This chainsaw has been such a pain to start previously not knowing the trick that you provided. Thank you so much! This has saved my arms from falling off trying to start this thing and it is now a joy to get going.

[@user-nt5tl2bt4m]

Girl you are the shit ,learned more from you in 2 minutes than 30 minutes listening to the guys on this channel, Thanks

[@willwaconsya3433]

Usually my big Sthil saw starts very hard in cold weather. My method is to bring it inside a heated building for a few hours befor trying to start it outdoors. Always makes it easy to start. Clean air filter helps as well. And as for safety, glad to see the use of chaps in this video.

[@IWillNotBeLabelled]

As for safety, why no peaked helmet. My understanding is it reduces the chance of injury from kickback....

[@nathanbraidman5372]

Another idea is to take out the spark plug, make sure it is clean and heat it slightly with a blow torch before putting it back and starting the saw.

[@joepie221]

I like the " get past the first compression point " suggestion. I'll have to try that. Thanks. Nice vette by the way :)

[@donaldhatch1597]

I have been fixing small engines for 60 years. I have learned alot of tricks watching your show. Thx

[@TSully7409]

Thanks you saved the day! I haven’t been able to start my Echo 590 for over a year. Today I used your technique and it fired up, allowing me to cut a cord of firewood.

[@roccozarcone4393]

It’s nice to see a woman mechanic who knows her stuff. Great job great video I learn a lot from you. Thank you.❤

[@joncoffey4821]

Sooo happy you made this video. It’s been so frustrating to convince my own family members about what you covered. Especially starting their Stihl saws. NOW no more discussion. I’ll simply have them, both male and female, watch Your video. Love ya Lady! Greetings from Oklahoma.

[@gilguillemette4174]

Thank you for your expertise. I’ve owned many high end saws & some big ones very hard to fire up. I enjoyed & understand what your doing. Makes sense. Love your video

[@fml5910]

You are an inspiration. I love that you're not afraid to fix things.Thank you for sharing.

[@bryanbrowning5746]

The timing of this video was perfect! I just bought a Timberwolf, and it started right up the first time I tried it. After it was warmed up, I turned it off and tried a restart: 20 pulls, and it was a no-go. I pulled the spark plug, and yes, I had flooded it! I had no idea about the impulse to the carb, and since I’ve tried your tips, it is SO much easier to start! Excellent video, thank you!

[@Chickanic]

Awesome! Glad I could help!

[@franklaskus2395]

@@Chickanic that’s what I was worrying about when buying my TW saw. Being strong enough to pull it with my back injury.

[@henrent]

I have a 590 Timberwolf as well and it does flood easily as well. I realize this now more with this video. I also don't press the decompression button and just man up. Once that thing is running it is a beast especially with a Rapco tungsten carbide tipped chain.

[@bryanbrowning5746]

@@henrent I really like mine, so far. It is a powerhouse cutter for sure!

[@jupitercyclops6521]

"Sometimes you get to the age where you just can't pull it anymore" That's what she said.

[@shermanhofacker4428]

You almost lost me with the comment about age 😁 I'm nearing 80 and still using saws up in trees; I have changed to more careful work habits, ie, no longer climbing with just spikes and hands until time to start the saw! Just kidding about losing me! Love your channel, great information and enjoy watching!

[@Gruuvin1]

But ... Are you too old to pull it hard enough?

[@normanhacker3588]

Just great Sir! Keep rocking!

[@thechickenmamas2827]

I also put my foot in the handle to crank my saw. It makes it so much easier. Thank you for the tips about pulling it the the first compression. You rock 🎸

[@eastcarson13]

nothing better then a smart person with experience sharing their knowledge that's her 100%!!!

[@fixedfrank]

Found your channel looking for small engine starting & maintenance tips snd tricks. I've been running an echo 590 for a couple years. Your cold start tips are gold! Started cold in 3 pulls! Tried on my very old 750evl. Harder to pull but started in 2! The tip on the 590 de-comp valve is great advice as I've flooded it as a newbie.

[@littlejoey22]

Hey, quickly wanted to say thanks for making quality and informative videos. I cut hundreds of trees a year and felt pretty knowledgeable about saws but I’ve recently discovered your channel and watched a ton of your stuff and picked up quite a few tips and tricks. You rock, thanks for sharing your experience.

[@ouiroc]

With chainsaws you get what you pay for I will never own anything again that doesn't steel

[@lebe220]

I have an electric chain saw, but this video is great. Entertaining presentation. Thanks

[@craigmacdonald2642]

Solid advice, very helpful as always. Thank you for your time and you put into your videos very grateful 🙌🏾

[@deanhansen3950]

The first couple of short pulls to get through first compression is genius!

[@Patrick-kc5ur]

To start a flooded chainsaw, put it on the ground , stick your boot/shoe up under the tigger, depressing it to full on, wide open throttle, then pull the starter as many times as needed. It will eventually restart. Great tips and video by the way!

[@nicholasgrubb151]

I am a long term user and never knew this method until quite recently. Seems totally counter indicative, but for some reason unknown to me works.? Can you tell me why? Not so sure of her not using the decompress. Ripped the tendons on my shoulder a few years back, with a heavy saw.

[@Hellsong89]

@@nicholasgrubb151 For flooded chainsaw this lets in full throttle air even though carb does not have full vacuum so this leans the mix going into crank case, allowing also cylinder to push out excessive fuel fumes and as mentioned it dries it eventually to get good enough fuel air ratio to ignite, though caveat to this is that spark plug might be drowned in fuel and oil and wont give good enough spark. Sparking does warm the plug a bit but it will take while before it works as intended and this is why you should always carry both spare spark plug well as tooling to replace it in case of flooding or general failure of the so called one dollar fault, witch is why you should also carry spares for your dirt bikes etc machines cause you dont want to be left hanging middle of the job or no where due one dollar/cheap part. Nothing prevents you swapping the plug back in after saw is running again, but it will remove one fault point, though do pull couple times to clear out fuel in the chamber so you dont flood the new plug right away. Clearing the chamber with out plug in place creates far less vacuum when piston is going up so again way less fuel gets into crank case drying it further. Also keep lighter with you. Saved me many times to just heat it up and burn out the oil and fuel that might be shorting the plug giving weaker spark. I usually work few hundred meters from those spares but if you work anywhere further keep spares with you. Easy enough to have them in same bag where you keep your sharpening tools. Simple rule with this is to pull say dozen times with full throttle and after you are done cursing check the plug if its wet. Heat on spark also helps it to evaporate better though this could be so little that does it really matter, but could be a thing. Of course take this with grain of salt, i'm no mechanic just guy that has some experience on tinkering and working with old worn out machines and has gotten thing working, what ever it is due "expertise", dumb luck, sprinkling holy oils to peace the machine spirit or endurance to keep going and testing different things until something chances enough to get it working. Just my view to consider.

[@user-hr2pn3om1h]

I run veterans firewood in Minnesota. Thanks for the tips. 40 years cutting wood and still learning new things. Give me an edge on cantankerous still chainsaws

[@RichardNBBarrett]

Took my old Husqy farm tough out of the greenhouse today and boom starts right up thanks to these tips. Awesome channel. TY very much. Would love to see you do some tractor stuff.

[@tonychinnery]

One tip I have found by experience: when starting as in the video, to be sure to push down on the chainsaw with your left hand as you are pulling the cord with the other hand. I find it really makes a difference.

[@lorinkramer5805]

I put in fresh non-alcohol gas, a new spark plug and tried your method to start a hard starting chain saw. SUCCESS!!!!!! I wish I would have known all this years ago. Thank you!!!!!

[@user-ix2mz7mp9y]

Wow.....just wow. Been running stihl saws for 45 years. I can always get them started, but this was so easy. Thanks for the tips and video. Liked and subscribed.

[@toddwilliams254]

You are the Queen! I love my 30 year old Husqvarna...but it pulls soon hard at start. Now I choke it very little (maybe only one pull) and trick it with the tiny first-compression pull. If you haven't mentioned it before, I think 90%of small engine starting problems are helped by reducing or eliminating choke after a pull or two and even shutting off the gas feed, if available, toclear out the flooding everyone causes. Thanks!

[@taddostendorf4173]

Great information as usual, I was a service manager for 23 years (mostly Stihl, but we tried to cover all), I always stressed starting any chainsaw on the ground. Our Stihl distributor/trainers were adamant about this, mostly due to product liability issues. To this day the only saw I ever drop-started was the top handled trim saws and that was seldom. Safety is key to using ANY power equipment.

[@treeguyable]

Ground starting is for sure the best, but, I can start my 880 Stihl drop starting, and, up in the tree, even with my 391, and what ever saw is up there, there is not much choice. Most people should not own a saw.

[@need100k]

I don't think I've ever started a top handled saw on the ground before (I've owned several). You sure can't do it while climbing. Same with a larger saw when you're up in a tree. No choice. I sure wish they had those nice battery powered saws back in my day. Never need to start them. No hot exhaust in your face, no more gasoline to mess with, and more torque as well (not more top end horsepower, but good enough).

[@charles09361]

@@treeguyable ... "Most people shouldn't own a saw".. That doesn't even come close to the reality of it. I can't think of a more dangerous piece of equipment that can be bought by anyone with just a credit card and a smile. It reminds me of people thinking that they can't get hurt on a moped, like they can on a motorcycle. Bail off at 30 M.P.H.... it's the same as bailing off a Hayabusa at 30 M.P.H.//... only difference is protective gear, and that the Hayabusa had better brakes and handling. Kick back from a plug in electric, or kick back from an 80 CC saw will rip into skin equally as well. That anyone can walk into any brand Dealership and buy anything they want is terrifying.

[@treeguyable]

@@charles09361 True, I have been able all my life, to aqquire anything I wanted, fast bikes, fast cars, chainsaws, trimmers, power tools, climbing gear, bobcats, boats, chippers, pistols, ars',aks', etc. How I ever made it to 65 intact, not sure, but I am a big chicken . Still ride my R1, and climb trees everyday, so , I am workin against the odds. 😏

[@charles09361]

@@treeguyable LOL.. Man after my own heart.. Bought a 1985 Honda 1000 Interceptor three years ago as a retirement gift ( bucket list ) gift to myself. Sold it a year ago when I retired to somewhere where there was just too much gravel road to get to a highway. Damn glad that I didn't buy it new in '85... probably wouldn't be here today. I don't climb anymore, I use a bow and arrow ( over and back) to put a tag line up high enough to get proper leverage, and yank with the atv, and then slice and dice on the ground. No more cutting for bucks, just enough to keep the property clear.😎

[@puffyd58]

I've been beating myself up trying to start my Stihl MS 290 for years. I FINALLY saw someone do the slow, short pulls to get past that first compression stroke . . . and my world was rocked! Now I truly look forward to cranking my saw. SO much easier . . . and it runs like a champ. Great saw. Thanks for going into detail about why your starting method is SO much better. I love your channel.

[@robertmarr]

My first chainsaw was a Stihl MS211. An absolute toy compared to those you talked about in this video. It had a pretty decent oil leak but the folks at the repair place said it had a bad pump, and it was not worth the cost to repair it. (??) That was 4 years ago, and it hasn't been used since. (Mostly because I had a bad rotator cuff, and I couldn't pull on anything, let alone a chainsaw. I had it replaced, and after some PT, I was good to go!) Today, after disgusting adventures with other saws, I decided to pull out the MS211 to see if it would still play. Using the old, nasty gas that had been in there all that time, that puppy fired up on the 10th pull !! Of course, I used the short-stroke pulls that you demonstrated here. Thanks for the tip!

[@mikesutherland6183]

I got a brand new chinese 84cc unit with Easy-start and had a lot of trouble getting it going. Found your video, did some experimenting and came up with the following method. Step 1: Ignition OFF, choke HALF position - pull over compression 2 or three times. Step 2: Ignition ON, choke OFF - 1 or two proper hard starts. GOING! :) :) Yes the main problem is flooding. Even with that minimal choke usage there's a tiny puff of black smoke when it starts. Thanks for your straight-forward presentation. It made a lot of sense to me and saved a lot of swearing ;). 10 stars!

[@robertstewart1344]

Thank you for sharing your knowledge and thoughts , between yourself,and Steve’s small engine repairs you have solved so many of my small engine issues , grateful for all your help

[@paulrickford6154]

Check out Donnyboy73. He is from Muskoka Ontario.

[@fomoco300k]

As a CS-590 owner, I don’t use the decompression button. I actually find that it makes it harder/less likely to start. It’s a nice idea. Maybe it works on other saws, but not on mine. And now I know why. Thanks for the tips.

[@paulreid2223]

My 72 cc Husqvarna responds very well to the decompression button - it's all about finding the correct start sequence for each chainsaw - 'cause they're all different ...

[@panchopistola8298]

@@paulreid2223 yeah it’s handy when you have a 10 + hp chainsaw

[@adritractor]

Yea, I don't use mine on my CS501p either, it just starts so well.

[@randywright1175]

Impressive! I like those tricks in pulling out the compression and dry pulling, just into the stroke cycle. I have a new 590 Timberwolf and failed to get the first one to start so it got traded for another, which started within 7-9 pulls. I loved it! This will be my first 60cc chainsaw. My first Echo is the SRM 225 gas trimmer. I do ground start mine. My boot won't fit into the backhandle like yours but I am able to get some tread when I pull. My gas trimmer really spoiled me. Thank you for posting this video! Love the Vette!

[@allanpatterson7653]

Thanks for sharing your expertise I sold firewood when I was in High school was blessed with living on 30 acres of woodlot and a pickup truck privilidge to use. Homelite saw was the basic model of the day I was lucky did not get injured I learned by the stories of others.

[@brudasdm7419]

I had a 440 like the one in your video. I prefer using the compression release because it seems like it's easier on the pull cords. I like the idea of skipping the first compression stroke though. 🤘😎

[@danielnelson85]

Great video. Starting equipment is a bit of an art, and these kinds of tips really do help. I worked in equipment rentals for ages. Stihl saws in particular can be a nightmare. I've got 'the touch', and there's still been plenty that have defeated me. Heh, I've seen grown men brought to tears. For my own peace of mind, I typically buy Echo. Even when they're stubborn, they *always* end up starting, and that's everything.

[@TexarkanaPrepper]

I consider my self a fairly strong guy. Work on the farm every day. Lift lots of bags of feed and wrestle animals, but I cannot pull my Echo saw. I have a Sthil and it always starts easy never fail. So I hate this echo that I am not able to use. One thing that really drives me crazy is that there is not room to put my foot on it so it slips out and the saw goes flying up in the air. All of my other equipment is Echo and I love them. I’ve never had problems getting things to start. I’m good with the starting part. It’s the pulling of this particular saw that sucks. If I could hold it down, it wouldn’t be hard.

[@michaelspencer301]

I have tried your easy start compression strokes and it WORKS !!! Great tip ! Try it guys. Recently worked on a older big Stihl power cutter. It was used to cut railroad tracks apart. It was big and heavy and everytime you attempted to start it without using decompression valve it would jerk the start cord out of you hand. (OUCH) hard on the hand and fingers. I normally don't use the decomp valves because you will flood the saw if not careful. Rebuilt an old Husqvarna 3120 for a gentleman one time and I fastened it up in a vise and two handed it to get it started. Lol. Age brings on wisdom . 😅 Love you show !

[@69wandering]

You make that look so easy... of course your chainsaws are kept in better shape than mine! Keep the videos coming!!

[@richardhowe6218]

I have been using chainsaws for years. I thought I knew everything about chainsaws. You proved that there are still things to be learned. I'm gong to try that with my chainsaw when I get home. Thanks for the video!!

[@roseymalino9855]

You raised my curiosity. You've been using chainsaws for years, what remotely could you have learned from this video that is not mentioned in the saws accompanying user guide?

[@Gruuvin1]

@@roseymalino9855 he's been using them for years, not reading the manuals for years!

[@dentondunn4346]

Well did it help on starting it easier? Myself, I never use decompression button and I never pull more than twice on choke even if I don't hear it pop, then i unchoke it and pull til it starts. Mine always starts bout 3 or 4th pull from cold start

[@MVortex2]

Two rules for all my chainsaws. Never run ethanol, ever. In fact, I spend the stupid amounts of cash for the premix just because some of my saws cost upwards of $1000+. Second, esp in colder weather I just pull the plug and crank it over about 10x. The replace the plug, that typically does the trick.

[@Johnbro8]

Thanks for the advice. I’ve always used this way to start, on the assumption the cylinder needed to be lubricated before start up. I also use the same start up with the strimmer. Your very correct it is the easy way to start. Thanks again