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How to Start a Stihl Chainsaw: The Ultimate Beginner’s Guide

Looking to start a Stihl chainsaw? This comprehensive beginner’s guide is here to help. From the basics of how to start a chainsaw to safety advice, maintenance tips, and Stihl chainsaw model number location we have everything you need to know to get started.

So whether you’re a homeowner looking for a little extra help with yard work, or a professional contractor who needs a reliable tool, read on for all the info you need to get started with your chainsaw including why are Stihl chainsaw so hard to start.

How to Start a Chainsaw that won’t Start?

If you’ve ever tried to start a chainsaw and found yourself stuck in front of a frustratingly uncooperative machine, you know how intimidating they can seem.

Follow these instructions as if you are looking at the actual machine itself. Many people mess up when starting their chainsaws because they turn the wrong way or put their hands on the wrong part of the machine.

How to Start a Stihl Chainsaw for the First Time?

The first step is gathering your materials. You’ll need a Stihl chainsaw, compressed air or electric oil pump, and two aerosol cans. You will also need high octane gasoline (91+) for gasoline-powered machines, and for electric/air-powered machines, fully-charged batteries.

How to start a Stihl chainsaw for the first time

Preparation is key to any successful task; it’s no different when learning how to start a Stihl chainsaw. Before you attempt to start the machine, adjust the saw bar and chains with care.

Make sure that all bolts are tight enough so that the parts do not come loose during operation. When starting the chainsaw, always place it on a stable surface and apply the safety locks.

To start your machine:

  1. Prepare the saw for operation
  2. Pour in fuel into the tank and add two-stroke oil to help lubricate the unit
  3. Prime several times until you see gas squirting through the air filter
  4. Connect the red starter cord to the ‘S’ on the saw body (Stihl logo)
  5. Hold the chainsaw with your dominant hand and press down on the safety lock with your other hand while pulling the starter cord
  6. Continue this process until you hear a loud sound emitted from the engine (This means the engine has started)
  7. Keep holding onto the chainsaw while removing your hand from the safety lock, and begin slowly pulling the starter cord to gain momentum
  8. When you feel that it’s moving fast enough, press down on the throttle trigger and push through with a quick jerk of your arm
  9. You can let go of the starter cord now
  10. Keep the machine running by maintaining a constant speed using the throttle trigger

How to adjust Stihl chainsaw chain tension?

The next step in learning how to start a Stihl chainsaw is adjusting the chain tension if needed. The first thing you’ll need to do is attach the saw bar and chains. This is done by simply placing the bar inside of the chains and tightening it with the nuts on either side of the machine.

How to adjust Stihl chainsaw chain tension

You can adjust how tight or loose you want your chain to be using the tensioning adjustment screw located on top of the unit, near where you attached the saw bar. To tighten your chains, remove whatever is blocking the screw. Then turn it clockwise until you reach the appropriate tension.

When learning how to start a Stihl chainsaw, make sure to not over-tighten your chain, or else you risk damaging the unit.

To loosen the bar’s tension, simply turn the screw counterclockwise until you are satisfied with your results. If you notice your machine is struggling, you can slightly loosen the saw bar’s tension until it runs smoothly again.

How do you start a Stihl blower?

Another common question people have when learning how to start a Stihl chainsaw is, “How do you start a Stihl blower?”

Fortunately, the process is very similar. With your machine turned off and cooled down, attach the two tubes on either side of your blower’s motor. Make sure they are attached tightly. If your tubes do not go on easily, turn off the machine and let the tubes cool down.

How do you start a Stihl blower

Preparation for starting your blower’s engine is essentially the same as starting a chainsaw. Place your blower on a flat surface and remove any obstructions that may hinder its start-up. Apply the safety locks to both handles in order to prevent any accidents and attach the blower’s starter cord and muffler to the machine.

To start your blower:

  1. Connect the red starter cord to the ‘S’ on the body.
  2. Turn it on and press down on the safety lock with your other hand while pulling on the starter cord.
  3. While holding the unit, press down on the throttle trigger with your first hand and pull through with a swift jerk of the arm.
  4. Keep holding onto the unit while removing your hand from the safety lock
  5. Hold down on the throttle trigger to maintain a consistent speed
  6. If you are unable to maintain your desired speed, you can slightly loosen the throttle trigger until control is regained

Stihl Chainsaw Safety Precautions

The first rule of Stihl chainsaw safety is to always assume that invisible wires are surrounding your machine. While the majority of Stihl chainsaws are equipped with a protective casing around the bar, it’s imperative to keep all of your body parts far away from the unit at all times.

Safety features that come with Stihl chainsaws include a safety lock, ignition switch, and throttle trigger. All of these are intended to assist you in avoiding any accidents while using your machine.

Remember to always press down on the safety lock before starting up the engine to prevent any accidents from occurring.

Stihl chainsaw safety precautions

The throttle trigger is specifically designed for you to control the speed of your machine while it is running. It’s essential to keep in mind that when learning how to start a Stihl chainsaw, the engine will shut off when you release the throttle trigger from your hand.

Make sure that you maintain control over the throttle trigger when using your machine to prevent an accident from occurring. Avoid operating with one hand when learning how to start a Stihl chainsaw.

It’s important that you maintain control of your unit at all times, so always use both hands when starting the engine or working the controls.

If you are not sure if your saw is safe or functional, take it to your nearest Stihl dealer. Though you may feel embarrassed, doing this will ensure that your machine is in proper working order.

It’s important to remember that there are many different factors that affect how your machine operates, including bar oil levels and fuel levels. Be sure to check and maintain these levels often, as it’s easy to forget about device maintenance when you are focused on completing the task at hand.

Stihl Blower on-off Switch Position:

The keys to keeping your blower from overheating.

“Where does the on-off switch for my Stihl blower go?” The positioning of this switch will greatly affect the life of your machine. If the switch is left in the “off” position while you are not using your blower, the machine will overheat and may even break down.

As a general rule of thumb, it’s best to leave the switch in the “on” position when your device is running. This will prevent overheating and make your blower last longer than it would if the switch was left in the “off” position.

While this may seem like common sense, there are many people who have a tendency to forget. It’s also important to remember that the on-off switch for your blower is different from the on-off switch for your chainsaw.

Stihl chainsaw model number location:

The model number for your machine

One of the most important things to identify when learning how to start a Stihl chainsaw is the exact type of unit you are using. In order to properly hire an authorized dealer or service provider, you need to know precisely which type of chain saw you have. It’s easy to find the model number for your Stihl chainsaw as it is typically located on the front section of the unit.

If you are unsure which type of model number you need, head to a local dealer or call Stihl customer service for assistance.

Stihl chainsaw model number location

Repairing or servicing a Stihl device can be quite costly if you do not have all the proper information. It’s also important to note that if you own more than one Stihl blower or chainsaw, they should be serviced at the same time.

Many people make a big mistake when learning how to start a Stihl chainsaw by neglecting routine maintenance.

If your device requires an oil change, fuel additive, or any other type of servicing, be sure to complete the task as soon as possible. Neglecting maintenance could lead to damage that will cost you more money to repair than if you just completed the task on time.

Why are Stihl chainsaws so hard to start?

A Stihl chainsaw starter rope.

Many people have a difficult time learning how to start a Stihl chainsaw because these units are very powerful and have high compression levels that make it hard to get the engine going.

It’s important to keep in mind that while your machine is shipped from the factory with a slow starting throttle trigger setting, the device can be adjusted to fit your needs.

Why are Stihl chainsaws so hard to start

If you let your Stihl chainsaw sit for extended periods of time without using it, the compression levels will be higher than normal, and it may become more difficult to start up when in use.

It’s best to keep in mind that if you plan on letting your machine sit for more than a month, you should drain the fuel tank and let the device sit in an open area with a cool temperature. Doing this will help keep your unit in optimal conditions when it is time to start up.

How to start a Stihl chainsaw – FAQs

Do you start a chainsaw with the brake on?
No, you don’t start a chainsaw with the brake on–doing so can damage the brake. Always make sure the brake is disengaged before starting the chainsaw.
Why is it hard to start my Stihl chainsaw?
It can be challenging to start a Stihl chainsaw because they are designed for professional users. They have a high compression ratio, which means that the engine is primed for maximum performance. In order to start the saw, you need to apply pressure to the primer bulb until it’s completely compressed and then release it.
How do you cold start a Stihl chainsaw?
To cold start a Stihl chainsaw, follow these steps: 1. Make sure the choke is in the “off” position. 2. Press and hold down the decompression valve with your left hand while you pull out slowly on the starter rope with your right hand until you hear a click. 3. Hold the blade control lever all the way to the left and pull out on the starter rope with your right hand while you slowly push in on the primer bulb, which is located next to the engine above the fuel tank. 4. Pull slightly upward on the starter handle again to make sure it has engaged, then let go of everything. 5. Allow 2-3 seconds to pass before pulling the starter rope again. 6. Repeat steps 4 and 5 until the engine has started or you have pulled 100 times on the cord without success. 7. Move the choke lever to the “on” position, then pull firmly three or four times to start it up.
How do you start a Stihl chainsaw without flooding?
First, make sure the choke is in the “off” position. Then, press and hold down the decompression valve with your left hand. Pull out slowly on the starter rope with your right hand until you hear a click. Hold the blade control lever all the way to the left and pull out on the starter rope with your weapon hand while you slowly push in on the primer bulb with your off-hand. Pull slightly upward on the starter handle again to make sure it has engaged, then let go of everything. Allow 2-3 seconds to pass before pulling the starter rope again. Repeat steps 4 and 5 until the engine has started or you have pulled 100 times on the cord without success. Move the choke lever to the “on” position, then pull firmly three or four times to start it up.
What would cause a chainsaw not to start?
There are many reasons why a chainsaw wouldn’t start, but it all comes down to the fuel mixture. This means that either there is too much oil in the mixture or not enough, or possibly the wrong type of oil is being used. With Stihl products, you can use two-cycle engine oil for this purpose. The first thing you should do is check to see if there are too many Impurities in the fuel. This can be done by checking for water, dirt, or dust particles. If these are present, filter them out with a strainer or cloth before adding fresh gas or trying to start your Stihl chainsaw again.
How does Stihl easy start?
Stihl created their own version of easy start, which is a tool that engages the flywheel and disengages the compression release. This allows you to pull the starter cord several times before pulling it out all the way or engaging the decompression valve for additional starting power. This works so well because there is no tension on the flywheel, which means that it won’t cause a kickback. There is tension on the flywheel when pulling the cord out completely, and if you pull too hard or fast, your saw might lurch backward.

 

Conclusion

Stihl is one of the top brands you can buy for your tool supply. With a wide range of chainsaws and other outdoor power equipment, it’s extremely easy to find what you need with Stihl tools.

With this guide on how to start a Stihl chainsaw, you should feel more comfortable with the process. Remember that when learning how to start a Stihl chainsaw, it’s always best to use extra caution and double-check that everything is done safely.

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