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Chainsaw help

T

Tom Lewis

Joined
Jul 2, 2005
Messages
130
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Location
Carlsbad NM
I have a 6-8 year old Poulan chain saw. It starts easy and runs well, but after it gets warmed up I can't get it to re-start. When I try to re-start it, the motor will run at high rpm for a second or so, then die out. I can't get it to keep running. The air filter is clean and it has a new sparkplug.
I know I should get a Stihl, and that will be my next chain saw, but I would like to get some more use out of my Poulan.
Taking the Poulan to a local repair shop is out of the question.
Last year I thought the Poulan was worn out and was ready to buy a Stihl, but then I switched to a higher octane gas and the Poulan ran like new untill now.
 
If this thing has a primer bulb, I'd look at the carburetor being gummed up. It would start and run for a bit on the primer gas, but then there wouldn't be any coming regularly. If it doesn't have the bulb, I don't know what to tell you.
 
Same Problem

I had the exact same problem with my Poulan. I called it the one tank wonder. When I stopped to refuel it would not start again. I was told it was probable the coil getting hot because when it cooled off it would start and run again. I bought a Stihl. Keep the Poulan as a spare to cut the Stihl out of a tree when you get it pinched.
Vernon
 
Sounds like a carb problem, especially as the high rpm would indicate too lean a mix.

I'd suggest zeroing out the adjuster screw on the carb and then resetting them to original factory positions; usually one full turn open. I'd also check the fuel filter (that little barrel-type thing flopping around in the fuel tank). Since the problem arises only with a hot engine, you may have a cracked part that is changing shape in the heat. Pull your case off and carefully inspect the carb for either a crack or a bad seal.
 
Try this.

Since it is a couple years old, I would try a new carb kit, and check, or replace the fuel lines. There is usually a filter in the fuel tank also. Replace the spark plug to. A tuneup won't hurt.

That is where I would start before trying to adjust the carb. You can cause more problems if adjust it.

That's my 2 cents.

Matt
 
Here's a thought. You have used the saw for several seasons. The saw works well for a little bit then gets putzy. Drain all of the fuel out of it and let it dry out. You may find that there is a good bit of water in the tank or a whole bunch of crude that is choking the saw out. Had some like symptoms with my three year old huskie. I woun't tell you how much cruddy water I had in the tank, but I was shocked that it ran at all.


Aaron
 
Thanks everyone for the suggestions. I think I have gotten my money's worth out of the Poulan and it's time to move up to a Stihl.
 
Correct decision.

Tom, I was going to post this avenue earlier but thought better of it at the time. You are doing the right thing IMHO. I would advise that you also include a decompression button with a Stihl. Well worth the money, making it very easy to start and restart without tearing off your arm. I own an MS361 20" which may be slightly more than you need but it is a fantastic saw with ample power. You made a good decision. Bill
 
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