Fixing A Husqvarna Chainsaw That Starts But Does Not Stay Running

Links to products I have in my tool bag.
Chemical spray bottle . amzn.to/3eWcGVs
Spark plug bench tester. amzn.to/3jEcZH3
Compression tester. amzn.to/2NMgeze
Spark Checker. amzn.to/3bnXjmA
Fuel Line. amzn.to/3rFBlo3
Carb Adjustment tools. amzn.to/3k7cgxe
Air Filter. amzn.to/3Mz09aM
Metering Diaphragm. amzn.to/3wYbYBk
The links above are affiliate links.
Thanks for watching. This Husqvarna chainsaw needed a lot of work to get running again, but then it needed to be tuned, to stay running.

[@bertgrau3934]

Good video, I have an old (2002 ) poulan saw, most folks say they are junk, but a new carburetor, fuel lines, and filter and it runs as good as new. Much cheaper than a new saw. I like to make my equipment last longer than most people. Some folks say it's a waste of time. I enjoy working on my stuff myself.

[@Jim-ie6uf]

I have a wild Thing that’s at least 15 years old, always starts and runs like a champ

[@HomeGaragechannel]

you are correct, cheap saw, can still cut well too.

[@HomeGaragechannel]

nice!

[@jameshedrick605]

@@Jim-ie6uf I have one that i just recently put a new piston and cylinder on. It's a great saw and wasn't paying attention to what jug i had with me and ran it with straight gas. I since then marked all my jugs

[@patthesoundguy]

I have a Poulan 2150 from 1999 that I ported and made a custom pipe for and it's an absolute monster now. I have run it with a 36" bar without issue with a full 3/8 chain on it. Not bad for 34cc. So those saws are definitely not junk. 👍👍

[@mrfrankbosh]

I have shared your video with several young people picking up small engine equipment at Goodwill as people pitch problems for electric and $80 batteries. Your voice and tempo are excellent and your knowledge was excellent. Thank you for explaining how to repair and adjust. Your links are good and I bought a set of the $12 adjusting screwdrivers - best deal ever.

[@HomeGaragechannel]

thank you very much, I appreciate it a lot. Thank you for using the links as well!

[@jesterr7133]

I think you did the right thing on this one. You might have been able to get it running without doing anything, but you would have had an unhappy customer a few weeks later. You might as well do it right the first time.

[@HomeGaragechannel]

thanks I appreciate that

[@haneyoakie14]

I think you did the right things to make it run well. You are a good friend. That is a nice saw.

[@HomeGaragechannel]

thank you haneyoakie14

[@Mansionlife-m7l]

I am working on my second saw. I needed to take it completely apart to get closer to the hole for the fuel line to fit into the gas tank before I figured out the trick to cut the fuel line into a long tab. Once I got it all together and running I realized the chain is not oiling, I will have to take the cover and bar off again to investigate this further. I have watched dozens of videos like this one but they all neglect to show checking the oiler before reassemble. The saw I am working on is a cheap Mcculloch, very old, I found it in the garbage, the fuel lines and purge bulb were brittle and cracked, the diaphragms hard. I bought an ATV air filter large enough that I can cut in half and have two air filters. Fun hobby.

[@HomeGaragechannel]

it's true, I only check to see that the chain has oil dripping off it after running it.

[@GuysPlayingWithTools]

Good vid. I usually replace the filter if I see the white stuff in the screen, even if it looks ok.

[@HomeGaragechannel]

that makes sense

[@greenvolta]

I just love watching these videos casually but it helps whenever I need something done too

[@HomeGaragechannel]

I appreciate that.

[@lewiemcneely9143]

You did the right thing and the saw ran fine after you got through. That's how I've always set mine and all the 2-cycle stuff. That would be a fine homeowners saw but if I was into firewood or logs it'd be a different story. I saw how the chain loosened up after running but that is expected. Getting rid of the rust. Thanks and Blessings!

[@HomeGaragechannel]

you are correct, I'll have to check the chain again.

[@Vipex_134]

It is always a pleasure to sit, relax and watch a video of yours. I like your content!

[@HomeGaragechannel]

I appreciate that!

[@garymueller3447]

You showed the simplicity of husky carbs compared to some others. Thank you!

[@HomeGaragechannel]

no problem

[@xLTxVEGAx]

I believe you did the right thing by changing the fuel line and checking the carb. I know it takes time to do a carb check but I think it's worth it.

[@HomeGaragechannel]

thank you LT VEGA

[@cntrlscrutinizer5374]

Very good instruction video, you covered a lot, and you didn't fart around with a lot of mindless chatter. Thank you.

[@HomeGaragechannel]

I appreciate that

[@donvoll2580]

Good day Yea I want a V-8 from Blimford. Good video. Thanks

[@HomeGaragechannel]

You got it

[@grungemunkey]

You did the right thing cleaning the carb

[@HomeGaragechannel]

Thank you!

[@danielpadgett2831]

Good suggestion on what kind of chainsaw to get several years ago I got a stihl ms271 with a 20inch bar we've had several storms since then that has brought down some pretty big trees that 20in bar has come in pretty handy. Great video as always

[@HomeGaragechannel]

very true, larger than 18" for those properties that have large trees.

[@eugenecrabs3954]

I don't think it's the bar size that matters, It's the amount of cc's. You can get both a 40cc and 50cc saw with an 18 inch bar, obviously the 50cc can handle more load. Heck, you can even get a 60cc with an 18" bar. So when you say get a saw with an 18 inch bar, you could be talking about a saw that can only cut softwood, or a saw that can bury the bar in an oak log.

[@Bigalhunting]

That extra step brings them back with their next problem. You done good.

[@HomeGaragechannel]

thank you Al Bowman.

[@theophany1770]

Extremely detailed video. My 359 starts and won't stay running. Thanks for the tips!

[@HomeGaragechannel]

Glad it helped

[@cobhc1986]

In my experience, if the fuel lines are loose or rotted, the carb needs a rebuild too and vice versa. I always go through the whole fuel system, filter, carb, lines and primer (if it has one). Having a saw come right back to you after you think you’ve fixed it is embarrassing. You did the right thing.

[@HomeGaragechannel]

thank you Hester's Workshop

[@tughillbillyhomestead]

Thank you... my saw has exact issue that I've been chasing... will try what you showed. Very well done video

[@HomeGaragechannel]

Good luck!

[@electroddxful]

Great repair my friend 👍🙏👍🙏

[@HomeGaragechannel]

Thank you RayFpv.

[@patthesoundguy]

You did the right repair on that saw for sure. That has an OEM Walbro carb? The real Walbro carbs are of very good quality and are worth the rebuild and you will have a very good chance of success with it. That bar definitely tells you a story if you look close at it... That saw was run quite hard either out of bar oil at some point or the oil passages in bar are clogged or the oiler isn't functioning. It would be worth it to pull the bar to clean the Grove and oil passages. Also rum the saw without the bar to watch for oil for the feeder hole to confirm the pump works. It's also a good thing you got to that saw before the backwards chain destroyed it. Great save! Believe it or not, one of those saws with no bar oil will behave like it has a carb issue or a damaged cylinder once the bar and chain get very hot because the chain will expand enough to have it seize up and cause the saw to bog.

[@HomeGaragechannel]

I know right, the bar is definitely showing lots of wear but then again, it's easily replaceable even for the the owner.

[@TheOutdoorPowerGuy]

here's a pro tip for 2-stroke diaphragm's - there are 2 major manufacturers for carb's - Zama and Walbro, Zama uses a short stem and Walbro uses a long stem - now Ruxing is another brand of carb that has popped up on cheaper equipment in the last few years and i call them the throw a way carburetor - Ruxing does not offer replacement parts, now i have heard a rumor that a Zama diaphragm will work in a Ruxing carb but i normally throw them away and replace them at my shop, a new Ruxing carb for an MTD trimmer OEM cost is about $20.

[@Nukemann64]

Great Video IHG! No you did exactly what needed done. With the fuel line coming off the fuel inlet, and the leaking tank, had you NOT replaced the fuel line, it would've been coming back to you anyway! Great repair. Also, I agree, just a small saw is all u need. I have a Stihl MS170 from about 2011. It's a wonderful little saw and does the 10 - 20 minutes of tree cutting I need to do per year at my house lol.

[@HomeGaragechannel]

thank you Jacob Feather

[@hobbyelectronics6630]

Great video ! Thanks ! It helped me fix my Husqvarna 51. The carb screen was blocked because the fuel filter was missing. I bought the saw new and it has never been serviced, so I guess the factory forgot to install it.

[@HomeGaragechannel]

that happens sometimes

[@Mr2004MCSS]

Great video. We have this same saw that won't stay running. Ours is a 2007 model that we bought new and has not been used very much at all. I ordered the adjustment tools and metering diaphragms from your links and will try adjusting the carb. I had to replace the fuel line because it had disinagrated inside the tank. I also replaced the fuel filter and spark plug. The carb looked very clean when I removed it but I didn't try taking it apart. I may have to so I can inspect the screen.

[@HomeGaragechannel]

good luck to you and thank you for using the links.

[@Mr2004MCSS]

@@HomeGaragechannel I did end up getting the chainsaw running. The screen was pretty clogged up. The metering diaphragm that I ordered was the wrong one. Our Husqvarna 142 has a Zama carburetor but I'm not sure which one. Do you happen to know how to tell what model it is? The metering diaphragm looked okay but I would like to have an extra one just in case.

[@MC-ft8zv]

Just my 2c, but it's still a little lean at idle I feel, has that horrible uneven run to it...And that chain.....needs a little of it's life filed off it to get it back to sharp. These little machines do amazingly well considering not many homeowners would know how to sharpen a chain, let alone maintain their saws. Good video!

[@HomeGaragechannel]

I think you're right, I'll have to add some more fuel.

[@garyalensr]

You never disappoint. You videos are awesome. Hope ya have a great weekend

[@HomeGaragechannel]

Thanks! You too!

[@10forthebigguy753]

Factory carbs settings are always so Lean it barely runs

[@HomeGaragechannel]

very true.

[@jameshedrick605]

I always adjust a new saw to where it runs better than it does from the factory

[@HomeGaragechannel]

that's a good idea.

[@happycamper2877]

Good video,I would of done it as you did, The chain on backwards and the burnt bar shows it was that way a while,so I would of been suspect of fuel used and carb condition...Thanks

[@HomeGaragechannel]

no problem

[@vasylmyniv8365]

Thank you for your video. I do have chainsaw. Husqvarna, 137 e doesn’t want to start, when is warm or hot

[@HomeGaragechannel]

I'd probably looking into the carb, and then for a possible intake leak.

[@mattfleming86]

Here is a good one for ya. Husqvarna 435. Saw cranks, runs a short period of time, and dies. Anywhere between a few seconds or maybe a minute. New lines, filter, put in a carb kit, and when that didn't work an aftermarket carb. Good spark. Good compression. Intake manifold had a little defect around the impulse, replaced it with new oem. Same problem. As a guy who cuts a lot of firewood and has good husky's stihls and echos, my answer is "because 400 series saws are garbage" but it IS my dad's and i'd like to fix it. Suggestions?

[@HomeGaragechannel]

have you considered checking and replacing the tank vent?

[@philliphall5198]

Also check rubber boot while your there

[@mikedolman7056]

Home garage good easy to understand video thanks.

[@HomeGaragechannel]

thank you Mike Dolman.

[@Jim-ie6uf]

The bar looks trashed. Is the oiler working?

[@HomeGaragechannel]

yes the Oiler is working.

[@TargaWheels]

Over the years I've seen many melted side covers from having the chain brake on while cutting. If the chain brake is worn or not working properly, it can happen. And when these guys are working hard and have a lot of cutting to do, they tend to overlook things like disengaging the chain brake before cutting, especially if its worn already.

[@HomeGaragechannel]

you make a good point.

[@jackylsmith8138]

My 142 has the gas line pop off too about 20 years ago. Hooked it back up and ran fine. I think they didn’t push it on far enough from the factory. Mine ran for about 5-7 hours before the issue.

[@HomeGaragechannel]

I think you might be right.

[@jameshedrick605]

I always check the fuel lines whenever i take the carburetor off. I have an old homelite with a 34 inch bar and chain that has came in handy lately after we got a wind storm and knocked down a bunch of big trees. Most of the time i will always try and save the original carburetor if i can

[@HomeGaragechannel]

yes I don't throw the old ones away either

[@antoniohuertas8909]

Some people might disagree with me, but I find when I get into an engine to always look through the carburetor and give it a good clean out. It never hurts to get into a carburetor and spray it down with some carbon choke cleaner.

[@HomeGaragechannel]

nothing wrong with that at all.

[@ramadinsookhoo6141]

Hey bro, what's up? Since I've been watching your videos bro, I've never seen or probably noticed where the check valve flaps ever been bad ever. It's always a blocked or partially blocked inlet screen and a bad pumping diaphragm. I think I might have installed the chain on my saw backwards when I was now learning how to sharpen the chain and use the saw properly. Trust me bro cutting Tonka bean tree limbs with a chain backwards is real headache.

[@HomeGaragechannel]

it doesn't' happen very often, but the it is bad, you'll definitely know

[@ramadinsookhoo6141]

@@HomeGaragechannel thanks bro👍👍

[@williamsnow1531]

You did the job that you felt you had to. Remember….it’s your name on the repair.

[@HomeGaragechannel]

you make a very good point.

[@markluxton3402]

So what is that light colored muck in the screens? I have had this stop gear this year. Is this stuff that got passed a poorly made fuel filter, or does this come from the gas? Yes the saw needed cleaning and new diaphragms. You were correct to fix the carb first, before adjusting. Once set correctly on a clean broken in carb., you should not need to adjust it again. Fix the issues before adjusting the carb.. Had you just connected that hose, got the saw running, and adjusted the carb. enough to make the saw useful, the diaphragms would soften a bit as you use it, and the saw would then need adjustment again. I run into this with anything left sitting long enough. Usually, if clean, I just need to run an engine till the diaphragms get flexing good, and leave the jets at their previous correct setting. Assuming the engine will start and run. No matter what though, if you adjust your carb to suit a dirty carb with bad diaphragms, or other issues, your carb is not now adjusted correctly; AND things WILL get worse from that point onward. I have heard that OEM carbs generally come calibrated and set correctly. Only very minor tuning after break in. Not the same with knockoffs. Check the jet settings, throttle, and metering on these carbs.

[@HomeGaragechannel]

sure, they left ethanol fuel in the tank for much too long. Use only 100 percent gasoline to help avoid this

[@markluxton3402]

@@HomeGaragechannel This is my suspicion too, as I had three engines plug with this muck this spring. The only thing different this year is that we got a gas station locally. They only sell regular. I know better but bought some rather than a 45 minute drive. I should have made the 45 minute drive. I add Lucas oil upper cylinder lube/injector cleaner and their fuel conditioner/preservative, to my gas; and still my engines got this crap in them. If you are correct that this stuff comes from the gas, then a better fuel filter won't solve this either. Only better gas.

[@HomeGaragechannel]

yes you are correct about that assumption, better gas would be best

[@littleeagle7563]

Thats a good saw.

[@HomeGaragechannel]

yes it is .

[@mikokol7308]

Good video...many thanks

[@HomeGaragechannel]

no problem and thank you

[@johnwardle9667]

Great video dude!!

[@HomeGaragechannel]

Glad you liked it!

[@kennethalbert4653]

Awesome video! I am here because I have a new (11months old) Husqvarna 525LK Trimmer that had the same symptoms after 10hrs of use, brought it in expecting a warranty adjustment, ended up being charge $100 for a carb replacement, fought with Husqvarna to no avail. Now, after another 10 or so hours of residential use, same thing, starts briefly then dies. I wish I had found this video sooner (failed to look fail) it I dropped it at the shop today, for an estimate this time...we'll see, not expecting much, but now I can confidently bring it home and repair it myself ! Thank You !! I am scientific with the fuel mixture (graduated cylinder oil/gas pump 3.000 gal) tho I run it 40:1...any thoughts on rich mixture having an effect on carb ??

[@HomeGaragechannel]

thanks, as for a "rich mixture" affecting a carb, it's have to be extremely rich, actually almost all oil for the carb to not be able to deal with it. So I doubt you'd mix it like that.

[@kennethalbert4653]

@HomeGaragechannel Thank you for the response. The shop implied "fuel mixture" was the problem the first time (as did Husqvarna!) and immediately questioned it when I brought it back yesterday. Disgraceful!

[@ilikemotors2008]

I got something funny to tell you back in the mowing season I was riding my go-kart and I found a Toro mower on the curb and it looks like it was brand new it was from 2018 it had a light layer of dirt on it the guy didn't answer the door so I just took it I thought I stole it I go back later and the guys in his garage putting together a Honda mower and that mower just needed a new air filter and a oil change and the blade needed to be sharpened

[@ilikemotors2008]

Oh by the way I've been watching you for about a year your videos are very good I learned a lot from your videos keep up the good work

[@HomeGaragechannel]

very nice!

[@HomeGaragechannel]

thanks I appreciate it!

[@brianking1138]

I probably would have tried to put the line on and start it. I have a feeling thought that it probably wouldn't have run and I would have ended up doing the rest of what you did.

[@HomeGaragechannel]

ah, you make a good point.

[@benrobles752]

You done good!

[@HomeGaragechannel]

thank you Ben Robles.

[@sonofsteve566]

nice job, on most husqvarna. top of gas tank "under throttle link" there is a screen must be a vent on this vent is a rubber cone. ever since I lost this rubber cone. my 240 xtorq just won't run the same....any thoughts?

[@HomeGaragechannel]

I apologize I've never had to deal with the tank vent. The screen is a filter, while the green duck bill is inside the tank. As for your problem, I'd have to see the saw in person.

[@LeeGuy-jd1ho]

I got one the metal plate in front of the carb is missing. Is it important to operation?

[@HomeGaragechannel]

it's fairly important. It helps to brace the carb and seal it to the intake system. Without it, the engine might be tough to start and if it does start, it may not stay running.

[@Dogebreadzz]

Your the chrisfix of small engines.

[@HomeGaragechannel]

thanks I appreciate that.

[@chrisleroux2814]

turning the L screw anti clock wise is to increase the fuel .You mention clockwise to increase fuel

[@HomeGaragechannel]

I did? I'll have to go back and check thanks .

[@Franswaldeck-l8e]

Good

[@HomeGaragechannel]

thanks

[@Franswaldeck-l8e]

Good

[@HomeGaragechannel]

thank you.

[@fullonfishkeeper8473]

I have a old walk behind mower with a Kawasaki fb460v on its it seems to run fine and start up good when it’s cold but once it warms up it’s hard to restart do you know what the problem could be?

[@HomeGaragechannel]

2 things, spark plug or carb issue.

[@fullonfishkeeper8473]

@@HomeGaragechannel thanks I’ll look in to it

[@HomeGaragechannel]

no problem

[@jasharday5089]

Good use for generic spark plugs? We use them as fishing weights here.

[@HomeGaragechannel]

that's what I was thinking too, thank you Jashar Day.

[@mr1pearl]

V8 powered chainsaw from Binford I wonder how many caught that one 🤣 ah one other 🤣 still laughing !!! Husqvarna I'm fixing that one every time !!! Can you imagine picking up a V8 🤣😆😅

[@HomeGaragechannel]

thanks, I was hoping someone caught that.

[@mikespain8655]

If you can't put a chain on correctly, imagine how little experience you have running a saw, and the potential danger involved.

[@two-strokeworkshop1154]

So funny story I was putting back a stihl ms 180 and when I went to start it it had no compression the reason why I forgot to put the spark plug in

[@HomeGaragechannel]

it happens.

[@mohammedelma1374]

Please how to adjust the carburetor motosierras smash 4600

[@HomeGaragechannel]

sorry I have to be there to adjust it.

[@growmowlawncare8245]

If you are missing the gasket that goes between the carb and the motor could that cause issues with a motor running. And if so what kind of symptom? I am trying to diagnose a Husqvarna 51 that I can not get to do nothing but run for a second. I have tried carb adjustment but I can’t seem to get any different results. Possibly bad pumping diaphragm?

[@HomeGaragechannel]

that's possible but the "run for a second" is quite telling. I would borrow a compression tester and see what the reading is. If it's low, it could be "borderline" where it's not going to run but for second

[@growmowlawncare8245]

@@HomeGaragechannel thank you

[@jimsteinmetz9605]

I have a Husqvarna 353 e-tech with primer bulb. It idles irratically from rev to idle. Carb, main fuel line, fuel filter, and air filter are new. I am puzzled.

[@HomeGaragechannel]

I would start to consider an "air leak" at a gasket or seal. This is a very hard thing to prove and find though.

[@jimsteinmetz9605]

@@HomeGaragechannel the carb gasket and bellows appeared to be fine. How about the other fuel line and primer bulb?

[@HomeGaragechannel]

it's possible but the other seals would be on the engine.

[@dogansl6907]

Hi everyone i have husq 137 and i dont know carb setting?what is better carb setting numbers for husq 137 or 136

[@HomeGaragechannel]

not sure, maybe someone else might know

[@louizydelashmurda3031]

Start at fully closed and open the low n high jet 1 1/2 turns counter clockwise. Should put you in a good place to dial it in a 1/4 turn one way or the other

[@jasonhodkinson9297]

.my roybi.string trimmer wouldn't start we had.a gave to.us.we.tuned.the carb and then is.ran perfect.the throttle.cable.is.a bit.long.so.it.dosent rev out somtime.ans.the exahaust glows.red.is.that normal want.ur.opnion😊

[@jasonhodkinson9297]

And the exahaust glows red.is.that.normal.want ur opnion😊

[@HomeGaragechannel]

it sounds like you need to "adjust" the carb to deliver more fuel to the engine so it's not glowing red.

[@HomeGaragechannel]

not normal

[@mad2strokeguy694]

Question H.G is a 40:1 fuel mixture ratio safe on a 40cc chainsaw

[@HomeGaragechannel]

sure, do you have a brand name in mind.

[@mad2strokeguy694]

@@HomeGaragechannel yes, Ryobi 40cc

[@HomeGaragechannel]

that's fine.

[@mad2strokeguy694]

@@HomeGaragechannel Thanks I really appreciate your response

[@HomeGaragechannel]

no problem.

[@josepha.cirullisr.5096]

How about greasing the sprocket on the bar where the hole on the bar is. What grease should be used.

[@HomeGaragechannel]

Unfortunately that is one thing that I always forget to do. as for which one, I'm not sure.

[@josepha.cirullisr.5096]

@@HomeGaragechannel I just thought about it. I Don't have much experience with chain saws, which is why I watch these videos. I think you did a great job. Good trouble shooting. Happy New Year.

[@HomeGaragechannel]

Happy New Year to you too.

[@grungemunkey]

Sure does cut through dry rot wood real well

[@HomeGaragechannel]

Don't forget the ants.

[@richoconnell7363]

Replace the carb and line and filter $20.00

[@HomeGaragechannel]

that works

[@chrisnorden8043]

I'll gladly take a Binford 6100 over a Stihl or Husqvarna any day.

[@HomeGaragechannel]

lol.. me too.

[@RussellBooth1977]

No,you were better off doing that job once & doing it right otherwise it would've likely been a return job if you just reconnected the fuel line !

[@HomeGaragechannel]

you got that right thank you Russell Booth.

[@GrowingLittleCountryhomestead]

wow the chain was on backwards????? maybe your friend shouldn't own a chainsaw.

[@HomeGaragechannel]

I know right!

[@djscottymaxx]

I'll never own another Husq.... junk

[@robfinch1522]

Don`t know about "well maintained" If the owner had the chain much slacker he`d be tripping over it.

[@HomeGaragechannel]

well said

[@alexstromberg7696]

Just throw it away, garbage saw.

[@billquillin1952]

Carbs are cheap.

[@HomeGaragechannel]

absolutely thank you Bill Quillin.

[@markothwriter]

buy a new carb

[@HomeGaragechannel]

agreed

[@nickr1184]

If u can hold a screwdriver, never buy a 10 dollar aftermarket carb. Half of them suck hard so best to save the original. It has a reason OEM is like 7- 10 times more expensive. Also, replace the pump part while u have it apart. If you have to get parts anyway replace them all for a few cents. Not worth the time to take it apart again.

[@HomeGaragechannel]

thanks