When my Husqvarna chainsaw wouldn’t start, I felt like rushing to a professional or even buying a new one. But trust me, sometimes we might just be shelling out money for a fix we could do ourselves.
So, I’ve put together this guide to share some simple troubleshooting tips to help you get your chainsaw back in action.
How to Troubleshoot a Husqvarna Starting Issues
One or more of these issues may exist in your Husqvarna chainsaw, which you should investigate.
Step #1: Check the Amount of Fuel and Fuel Mix
Before delving into more advanced checks, consider starting with a simple fuel inspection. Ensure that there is sufficient fuel, it is of good quality, and that it is the correct fuel-oil mix, typically 40:10 or 50:10.
Sometimes, your machine may only need some fresh gas. It’s also worth noting that Husqvarna chainsaws need a different kind of gas from what your car or lawnmower uses, so make sure you’re putting the right type of mix in your tank.
Step #2: Check the Fuel Filter System
Check to see whether it’s been blocked. If your fuel tank is dirty, use a fuel system cleaner to clean it. Put some gasoline cleaner in the fuel tank, let it sit for a while in the engine to circulate, capturing any debris, and then clean the fuel filter.
Step #3: Inspect the Carburetor for Dirt and Blockage
A slightly more significant consequence of leaving fuel in the gas tank for a long period of time is that the carburetor can become clogged when the fuel becomes sticky, making it impossible to start the engine.
If you notice that the primer bulb is not filling, it’s likely that the fuel isn’t getting to the carburetor, too. You might be able to get away with cleaning the carburetor if it’s not too bad. Otherwise, you may need to completely rebuild or replace it.
Another thing you can do is unscrew the top cylinder cover and remove the air filter. Use the right Husqvarna carburetor tool for this task.
Step #4: Check if the Controls are Turned On and Activated
Make sure that the starter is turned ON, the choke is set to START, and the throttle lock and chain brake are turned off. Also, check if the primer bulb on the saw is filled.
Furthermore, pull on the front handle to check if the chain brake is disengaged. If none of these are completed, the machine will not start.
Step #5: Do the Correct Starting Procedure
Allow your engine to warm up before using it. This is especially important in the winter. Remember that the chainsaw’s performance is influenced by weather patterns.
Step #6: Check if the Spark Plug is Working
Another typical cause of a chainsaw not starting is an old, unclean, improperly attached, or faulty spark plug, which could be due to the chainsaw being an older model.
The porcelain insulator might be fractured or the electrode might be burnt away. Also, check whether there is an excessive amount of carbon build-up in the machine.
You can also remove the spark plug from the cylinder and put it on the rubber boot which you can find on the end of the wire.
When you’re holding the wire, make sure that the tip is at least 3 centimeters from the grounded metal point. Then, the next step is to place your foot into the rear handle and start pulling on the starter rope. You should see a blue spark.
If the spark plug is just a bit filthy, clean it – but because spark plugs aren’t expensive, it’s usually better to just replace it.
Step #7: Check the Air Filter
The air-to-gas ratio will be affected if the air filter is blocked or unclean, and the engine may not start since the air isn’t reaching the combustion chamber. Check the air filter and clean it if necessary if it won’t start.
You should clean the filter on a regular basis as part of your usual chainsaw maintenance, and think about replacing it altogether if it becomes overly dirty.
Step #8: Gauge the Condition of the Starter Cord
The compression of an engine is indicated by the chainsaw starter cord or starter rope. It’s possible that the engine compression is too low if you see the cord sagging when you pull the rope.
Adjusting a Husqvarna Chainsaw Carburetor
The job of the chainsaw carburetor is to identify the correct amount of fuel to mix with air before entering the engine, ensuring that the equipment runs smoothly.
There are three adjustment screws on the carburetor of a Husqvarna chainsaw, just like the adjustment screws on the carburetor of a Stihl chainsaw.
H stands for high (regulates the air or fuel mix at high RPM), L stands for low (regulates the air or fuel mix at low RPM), and T stands for idling (regulates the amount of fuel that gets into the carburetor while the throttle is pressed).
How to Adjust a Husqvarna Chainsaw
L Screw
While the engine is running, adjust the L screw by turning it to the left. Carry on like this until the engine practically stops. Then slowly crank the screw to the right until the engine starts to accelerate smoothly. You will also hear the engine idling smoothly.
T Screw
Start screwing it in clockwise until the saw moves, then slowly turn it anticlockwise until the chain stops moving. The engine will smoothly idle.
H Screw
Continue turning it anticlockwise until it no longer screws. The saw’s engine will start to sound harsh at this stage. If you detect this, start spinning the engine clockwise until it sounds smooth, then gently push the throttle.
Top Tips to Avoid Husqvarna Chainsaw Starting Issues
- Ensure you practice daily maintenance routines such as quick clean-up of all the parts after each use. Always use fresh fuel and the correct fuel-oil mix.
- The spark plug is a common issue among chainsaws that won’t start, not just the Husqvarna brand. When you see that the spark plug is corroded, it definitely won’t spark. So, you should keep them clean and dry so your saw can start properly.
- For weekly maintenance, always open parts like the air filter, carburetor, and spark plug. Also, clean these parts regularly.
- Check the recoil starter. Remember that the recoil starter assembly engages the crankshaft, so if it’s faulty, the chainsaw engine would not turnover.
- Check the ignition coil. The ignition coil sends voltage to the spark plug when the chainsaw is running.
- Getting old or worn-out parts replaced could be the quick fix to maintain the quality of your saw.
- Always lubricate parts when needed.
- Let it run for a few minutes, especially in cold weather.
- Like any machine, Husqvarna chainsaws require regular service.
In sum, all of the parts of a chainsaw must be in good working order for it to function properly. All you might need to fix the saw is your user manual and a steady hand.
Don’t be concerned if your chainsaw breaks down because, as previously said, all mechanical instruments will break down at some point, and Husqvarna chainsaws are no exception.
Conclusion
When you’re wondering why your Husqvarna chainsaw won’t start, this guide for fixing common Husqvarna chainsaw problems will come in handy. Whether it’s a clogged carburetor, flooded engine, faulty recoil starter, or a defective spark plug, you can definitely fix it with minimal effort.
Still, if you’ve tried one or more of these cutting techniques and your chainsaw still won’t start, you should take your machine to a Husqvarna chainsaw technician.
Robert Johnson is a passionate furniture maker & carpenter, sought after for his knowledge on the craft.
You’ve probably seen his down-to-earth wisdom in USA Today, Bobvila, Family Handyman, and The Spruce, where he has shared commentary and guidance on various woodworking topics.
Robert is the brain behind Sawinery, where he aims to share tips, tricks, and a passion for all things carpentry.
