How do I troubleshoot a craftsman chainsaw?

Craftsman has long been a manufacturer of hardware and power tools, including chainsaws. Like all power tools, a Craftsman chainsaw will sometimes refuse to work, and learning some basic troubleshooting techniques may save a trip to the store--as well as the expense--for assistance.

Basic Fixes

Start your troubleshooting by ensuring your Craftsman chainsaw is fully fueled with the proper mixture. According to Craftsman's instructions, use a mixture of gasoline and 2-cycle engine oil to fuel the chainsaw. Mix the ingredients at ratio of 40 parts gas to 1 part oil. Do not mix the oil and gas in the fuel tank; use a gas can.

In addition to making sure your chainsaw is fully fueled, make sure it the blade is clean and the chain is well-oiled. Dirt and debris can wreak havoc on the operation of a chainsaw.

Start-up and Running Problems

Make sure you are following the proper starting procedure for a Craftsman chainsaw. Slide the STOP switch down, place the choke in the up position, and press and release the primer button 10 times. Place the chainsaw on a flat surface and hold it tightly. Place the throttle in the open position, move the choke to the middle position, pull the cord four times and the chainsaw should start. Let it warm up for 10 seconds and move the choke into the lower position.

Make sure the chainsaw's choke stays in the lower position while running it; otherwise, the engine will stall.

Mechanical Problems

If you still can't get your Craftsman chainsaw to function properly, look at mechanical causes. Remove the top cover and check the spark plug. If the plug looks corroded or black replace it with a properly gapped plug. Make sure the connector is securely attached to the plug.

Drain the chainsaw of oil and fuel and check all filters. Remove the spark arrestor screen from the back of the chainsaw and replace it if it is dirty or damaged. Remove the top cover and remove the air filter. Clean it with warm water and allow it to air dry thoroughly before replacing it.

Remove the fuel filter by pulling it out of the fuel tank with a bent wire. Disconnect it from the hose and replace with a fresh filter. Finally, remove the bottom panel from your Craftsman chainsaw and use a bent wire to remove the oil filter. Replace it with a fresh one.

Do not attempt to adjust the carburetor. Craftsman chainsaw carburetors are set at the factory, and Craftsman recommends they only be adjusted by a qualified service professional. Attempting to adjust it by yourself may void your warranty.

Contact Craftsman

If none of the above tips helps, or you think the problem is the carburetor, contact Craftsman customer support by going to Craftsman.com. Or you can take your chainsaw to any Sears, as Craftsman is Sears' own brand, and customer service professionals at the store can assist you.

Source:

Craftsman.com

Craftsman Gasoline Chain Saw Operator's Manual