chainsaw problems

twodogs · Jul 1, 2006

I have a Husqvarna model 55 that I pulled out to use yesterday. Last year I replaced the plug & filter. I haven't used it since then. I had some gas in it, but added more gas (probably 6 months old - w/double Stabil) & started to cut. The saw wouldn't run well. It would run & die - often. I spent at least an hour fighting with it before I gave up. From what I have learned on TBN, I am assuming that the Stabil didn't last & crystallized. I am assuming that it is bad gas. Any thoughts?

dillo99 · Jul 2, 2006

Definitely try new gas/oil. Even with Stabil, it is recommended that oil/gas mixtures not be stored more than 30 days.

The 55 is a great saw - mine has made much sawdust with never a problem.

JJT · Jul 2, 2006

I've never heard Stabil is only good for 30 days. I routinely use it in my 2 cycle gas and in my generator and have no issues running it 12 months later. Anything over 12 months old goes into the lawn mower, (again - no issues).

It does sound like this chainsaw has a carb issue, I'd run some seafoam thru it, along with some fresh fuel.

ejtaylor822 · Jul 2, 2006

I have '55 as well - great running saw with no issues.

Use Stabil in my fuel for the generator and have not had any issues. Should be good for at least a year with Stabil mixed in the fuel - that is as long as you mix it when you buy the fuel. Mixing the stabil later, say after a couple of weeks or a month after getting the fuel is not going to help.

Here's a link to FAQ on this:
http://www.goldeagle.com/sta-bil/faqs_stabil_detail.asp?product=sta-bil&ID=81]

Along with trying new fuel and mix and looking at the carb, I would check the air filter/breather. This might be dirty or clogged up. The erractic running sounds like fuel/air issue.

Also, what mix are you using? I only use the Husquarvarna mix and it does have a fuel perservative in it, but, I have no idea how long it is good for. I only mix when and what I think I am going to need. After a couple of months, anything remaining goes in the car (when the tank is close to full).

Good luck and let us know what you find.

Eddie

twodogs · Jul 2, 2006

I am off to the shed to play around with it - my saw that is...
I used Husqvarna mix religiously. I love that saw. I have used it for 8 years & it has cut A LOT of wood for me. I bought a Husqvarna tractor because of how impressed I was with that saw. Unfortunately, the tractors aren't made by Husqvarna. They are made by AYP - basically a Craftsman tractor with Orange paint. Anyhow, I bought some fresh gas this morning & I am going to clean things out & give it a go.

Thanks!

ronjhall · Jul 2, 2006

Check the fuel line for a crack or hole. My Stihl seems to need the line replace every 6 to 7 years.

twodogs · Jul 2, 2006

I cleaned the carb repeatedly & drained the tank. I refilled with fresh gas. Since I had an extra plug in the shed, I also replaced it, even though the "old" one was only a year old. I thought that I might have had a bad wire, but I was getting a spark. I didn't notice any leaking fuel, but I will look into the fuel line.

gator · Jul 2, 2006

Although mine is not a Husky, here are some of the problems and fixes I have encountered:
Plugged muffler, pull you muffler off and clean it with spray carb cleaner.
Mine has a stone type fuel filter in the tank attached to a hose that can be fished out with a hooked piece of wire than cleaned with carb cleaner.
Does yours have a chain brake in front of the upper handle? I inadvertantly hit mine forward once and it would bog with throttle and die as soon as I let off the throttle (wore out a clutch before I realized it

)
Just some thoughts that may or may not help.

twodogs · Jul 2, 2006

Thanks Gator! I will try taking the muffler off. I had the cover off, which eliminates the brake. I will give it a try tomorrow.

Dutch445 · Jul 2, 2006

yea, ditto on the muffler, if they get carboned over the
motor can't breathe, and power etc goes away.
it may have a small screen that can be cleaned.. or easily
replaced... worth looking at for sure..