20 Reasons Stihl Chainsaw Won’t Start: How To Fix That

If you own a Stihl chainsaw, you know how valuable it can be for yard work, cutting firewood, and more. However, nothing is more frustrating than trying to start your Stihl chainsaw and finding that it won’t start.

There are many reasons why your Stihl chainsaw won’t start, and in this article, I will explain the 20 most common reasons why this happens and what you can do to troubleshoot the problem.

Reasons Stihl Chainsaw Won’t Start

If you are a user of the Stihl chainsaw, then you probably know that it can be a powerful tool for a variety of tasks. However, like any Kind of Power Tool, it can have its Problems. One of the most common issues that Stihl chainsaw owners face is a problem with starting.

While it can be frustrating when your chainsaw won’t start, it is usually a problem that can be resolved with a little bit of troubleshooting.

Here are the most common reasons why your Stihl chainsaw won’t start, and what you can do to fix them:

Stale Fuel

One of the most common reasons why your Stihl chainsaw won’t start is because the fuel in the tank is old or stale. Gasoline can start to break down after a few months, and this can lead to problems with starting your chainsaw.

If the fuel in the tank is old or stale, drain it and fill the tank with fresh fuel.

Clogged Air Filter

If the air filter on your Stihl chainsaw is clogged with debris or dirt, it can cause problems with starting. The air filter is responsible for keeping dirt and debris out of the engine,

and if it becomes clogged, it can prevent air from flowing into the engine, which can make it difficult to start. Remove the air filter and clean it or replace it if necessary

Spark Plug Issues

Another common reason why your Stihl chainsaw won’t start is because of problems with the spark plug. The spark plug is responsible for igniting the fuel in the engine, and if it is dirty or damaged, it can prevent the engine from starting. clean it or replace it if necessary.

Carburetor Problems

The carburetor is responsible for mixing fuel and air in the engine, and if it becomes clogged or damaged, it can prevent the engine from starting. This is a common problem that can be caused by old or stale fuel, dirt or debris in the fuel system, or other issues.

Fuel Line Issues

If there is a problem with the fuel line on your Stihl chainsaw, it can cause problems with starting. The fuel line is responsible for carrying fuel from the tank to the engine, and if it becomes clogged or damaged, it can prevent fuel from reaching the engine.

Ignition Coil Problem

The ignition coil is responsible for generating the spark that ignites the fuel in the engine. If there is a problem with the ignition coil, it can prevent the engine from starting. This is a common problem that can be caused by a damaged or faulty ignition coil. Test the ignition coil using a multimeter, and replace it if it is faulty.

Starter Rope Issues

If the starter rope on your Stihl chainsaw is damaged or worn, it can prevent the engine from starting. The starter rope is responsible for turning the engine over and getting it started, and if it is not working properly, the engine may not start.

Muffler Issues

The muffler on your Stihl chainsaw is responsible for reducing the noise that the engine makes. If there is a problem with the muffler, it can cause problems with starting.

This is a common problem that can be caused by a damaged or clogged muffler, which can cause a buildup of exhaust gases and prevent the engine from starting. Check  for damage or clogs, and clean or replace it

Fuel Filter Problem

If the fuel filter on your Stihl chainsaw is clogged or dirty, it can prevent fuel from reaching the engine. This can cause problems with starting and can also cause the engine to run poorly. Check the fuel filter and clean it.

Throttle Issues

If there is a problem with the throttle on your Stihl chainsaw, it can prevent the engine from starting. The throttle controls the amount of fuel and air that enters the engine,

and if it is not working properly, the engine may not start. adjust or replace it if necessary.

Choke Problem

The choke on your Stihl chainsaw is responsible for controlling the amount of air that enters the engine during startup. If there is a problem with the choke, it can prevent the engine from starting.

Low Compression

If the compression in the engine is low, it can make it difficult for the engine to start. This can be caused by a variety of issues, including worn piston rings, damaged valves,

or other internal engine problems. inspect the compression using a compression tester, and repair or replace any damaged or worn engine parts

Ignition Switch Issues

If there is a problem with the ignition switch on your Stihl chainsaw, it can prevent the engine from starting. This is a common problem that can be caused by a faulty ignition switch or a problem with the wiring. Check the ignition switch using a multimeter, and replace it if it is faulty

Dull Chainsaw Blade

If your chainsaw blade is dull or blunt, it can cause problems with starting. A dull blade can put extra strain on the engine, which can make it difficult to start. Sharpen or replace the chainsaw blade if it is dull or blunt.

Bar Oil Does Not Lubricate

Your stihl chainsaw may have a clogged oil filter or an issue with the oil pump if the bar oil does not properly lubricate the bar and chain. Check the oil filter, and if necessary, clean or replace it.

Chain Does Not Stop

A worn-out or damaged clutch may be the cause of the stihl chainsaw’s not stopping when the throttle is released. Replace the damaged clutch of your stihl chainsaw.

Engine Stalling Of Stihl Chainsaw

When the stihl chainsaw is running or idle, the engine may stall. A fouled spark plug, a broken carburetor, or a clogged air filter are all potential causes of this problem. Replace the spark plug, adjust or clean the carburetor and inspect and clean the air filter to fix the engine stalling.

Stihl Chainsaw Overheating

Overheating can happen when the Stihl Chainsaw is used for a longer period or in high temperatures. To Fix overheating Problem, allow the chainsaw to cool down before use, and avoid using it in extreme heat.

Excessive Vibration

An issue with the chainsaw’s Engine or chain may be shown by excessive vibration, which might make the operator uncomfortable and tired. Examine the engine for wear or damage, adjust the chain’s tension, and sharpen it if necessary to alleviate excessive vibration.

Chain Brake Failure

Your Stihl Chainsaw has a crucial safety feature called the chain brake that can Protect you from harm in the case of a kickback. It could be necessary to have the chain brake replaced or repaired by a professional if it is not working properly.

Weak Idle

Poor idling of your Stihl chainsaw may be caused by a dirty spark arrestor screen, a faulty carburetor, or a clogged air filter. Clean or replace the air filter, set or clean the carburetor, and clean the spark arrestor screen to solve a weak idle.

High Fuel Consumption

A dirty or worn spark plug, a broken carburetor, or a clogged air filter could all be that cause if your Stihl Chainsaw is using too much fuel. Replace the spark plug, check and clean the air filter, and adjust or clean the carburetor to avoid high fuel usage.

Old or Worn Engine Parts

Over time, the various parts of your Stihl chainsaw can wear out or become damaged. This can include everything from the engine piston to the starter rope. If any of these parts are worn or damaged, it can prevent the engine from starting. Repair or replace any old or worn engine parts that are causing the problem.

Bottom Line

there are many reasons why a Stihl chainsaw may not start, and it can be frustrating to try and diagnose the problem. However, by following the troubleshooting steps outlined in this article,

you can quickly identify and fix many common issues that can cause your chainsaw to fail to start. It’s essential to maintain your chainsaw regularly, including changing the fuel and air filters, cleaning or replacing the spark plug, and inspecting the chainsaw’s engine for wear and damage.

Regular maintenance can help prevent many common problems from occurring, ensuring that your Stihl chainsaw starts reliably every time you need it. Remember, if you are unsure or uncomfortable with any of the steps involved in troubleshooting your chainsaw, it is always best to consult a qualified technician.