My chainsaw won't start, what should I check?

That is a very common issue with small engines, especially chainsaws that might sit for a while. For a two-stroke engine like the one in your Loading..., the problem is almost always related to one of the three necessities for combustion: Fuel, Air, or Spark.

Here is a systematic troubleshooting checklist, starting with the easiest and most common issues.

1. Fuel and Carburetion Check

The most frequent cause of a no-start is old or incorrect fuel.

  • Fresh Fuel: Ensure you are using fresh, correctly mixed gasoline and two-stroke oil (usually 50:1 for Echo). Old fuel, especially if it contains ethanol, can degrade and gum up the carburetor quickly.
  • Primer Bulb: Prime the engine using the Loading... (primer bulb). Does it draw fuel and fill up without any air bubbles? If the bulb is cracked or the fuel lines are loose, it can suck in air, preventing a start.
  • Check the Filter: A clogged fuel filter in the tank can prevent fuel from reaching the carburetor. If you suspect this, drain the fuel, and use a stiff wire or needle nose pliers to carefully pull the fuel line and filter out of the tank opening for inspection.

2. Air and Air Filter Check

The engine needs a clear path for air intake.

  • Air Filter: A heavily clogged air filter will prevent the necessary air-to-fuel ratio for combustion. Check the air filter for dirt, debris, or excessive oil soak. You can usually access the air filter by removing the engine cover. While it's for a slightly different model, the Loading... can give you an idea of the general procedure.
  • Choke Position: Double-check that you are using the choke correctly for a cold start. A common mistake is leaving the choke on after the first few pulls, which floods the engine.

3. Spark Check

If the fuel and air systems look good, you need to check the ignition system.

  • Spark Plug: Remove the spark plug.
    • Condition: Is the tip wet with fuel (flooded) or black and sooty (running rich)? Or is it dry (no fuel)?
    • Spark Test: Reconnect the spark plug wire, ground the metal body of the plug against the engine block (away from the spark plug opening), and pull the starter cord. You should see a strong, blue spark jump across the gap. Use caution when doing this to avoid a shock and ensure you do not drop the plug into the cylinder.
  • Ignition System: If there is no spark, the issue is with the spark plug, spark plug boot, or the ignition coil (refer to the Loading... for your chainsaw).

4. Recoil and Compression Check

If the starter cord doesn't pull, or pulls too easily, there may be a mechanical issue.

  • Starter Cord: If the cord is broken or frayed, you will need to replace the Loading.... The Loading... may be helpful as a general reference.
  • Compression: When you pull the starter cord, you should feel significant resistance. If the cord pulls very easily, you likely have low compression, which means the engine will not start. This is a more serious mechanical problem that could indicate worn piston rings, damage to the cylinder, or a bad head gasket.

Start with the fuel and air checks. Once you perform a few of these diagnostic steps, let me know what you find, and we can narrow down the potential root cause.

Where's the spark plug?

The spark plug on your Loading... is located under the top engine cover, near the top of the cylinder.

Here is how you typically access it:

  1. Stop the engine and allow it to cool completely before proceeding.
  2. Remove the Top Cover: The spark plug is usually hidden beneath the engine's top cover (sometimes called the starter cover or cylinder shroud). You will need to remove the screws holding this cover in place. The Loading... for your model may help you identify the fasteners.
  3. Locate the Boot: Once the cover is off, you will see a thick, insulated wire (the spark plug wire) ending in a black rubber boot. This boot connects directly to the spark plug.
  4. Remove the Spark Plug Boot: Firmly grasp the boot and pull straight away from the plug to disconnect it.
To remove the spark plug:
  • Use a spark plug wrench or a deep socket (often 13mm or 19mm, but check your tool kit) to unscrew the spark plug counter-clockwise.

If you would like a visual reference for how the spark plug boot connects and disconnects, there is a helpful guide for a similar model: Loading....

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