Starting a Husqvarna chainsaw typically involves a sequence of steps to ensure safety and proper engine ignition, especially when the engine is cold.
Understanding Husqvarna Chainsaw Starting
Starting a chainsaw requires understanding its controls and the correct procedure for both cold and warm engines. A cold start means the engine has not been run recently, while a warm start is done shortly after the engine has been turned off. The procedure highlighted in the reference focuses on a crucial part of the cold start process.
Safety First
Before attempting to start any chainsaw, always prioritize safety:
- Engage the chain brake: This prevents the chain from moving unexpectedly when the engine starts.
- Ensure a clear area: Make sure there are no people, pets, or objects near the saw that could be struck by the chain or the saw itself.
- Check fuel and chain oil levels: Ensure both tanks are adequately filled.
- Inspect the saw: Quickly check for any visible damage or loose parts.
Cold Start Procedure
A cold start requires setting the choke to enrich the fuel mixture. Here's a general step-by-step guide for a cold start, incorporating the technique mentioned in the reference:
- Place the Saw Securely: Put the chainsaw on a stable, flat surface. The reference suggests a common technique: Put your right foot through the rear handle. This provides essential stability while you pull the starter rope.
- Engage Chain Brake: Push the chain brake forward (away from you) to engage it.
- Set Choke: Activate the choke. On many Husqvarna models, this involves moving the choke lever or combination control to the 'full choke' position.
- Prime (if applicable): Some models have a primer bulb. Push it several times until fuel is visible in the bulb.
- Engage Decompression Valve (if applicable): If your saw has a decompression valve, press it. This reduces cylinder pressure, making the pull easier. It usually pops out automatically when the engine starts.
- Prepare to Pull the Starter Rope: Hold the front handle firmly with your left hand. Your right foot should be securely through the rear handle for stability as described in the reference.
- Pull the Starter Rope (Finding Compression): As instructed in the reference, Pull the starter rope handle slowly with your right hand until you feel some resistance. This indicates you've reached the engine's compression stroke.
- Pull the Starter Rope (Starting Pull): Then pull the starter rope firmly and quickly with your right hand. Don't pull the rope all the way out; a shorter, sharp pull is more effective. Repeat 1-3 times until the engine "sputters" or briefly attempts to start.
- Disengage Choke: As soon as the engine sputters, move the choke control to the 'half-choke' or 'run' position. Do not pull the rope again with the choke still on if the engine has sputtered, as this can flood the engine.
- Pull to Run: Pull the starter rope again firmly. The engine should now start and run.
- Disengage Chain Brake: Once the engine is running smoothly, disengage the chain brake by pulling it back towards you (towards the front handle). The saw is now ready for use.
Note: If the engine doesn't start after several pulls in step 10, it might be flooded. Consult your owner's manual for troubleshooting steps, which usually involve moving the control to the run position and pulling the rope several times.
Warm Start
For a warm engine (one that has been run recently), the procedure is usually simpler:
- Engage the chain brake.
- Do not use the choke.
- Engage the decompression valve if applicable.
- Pull the starter rope firmly until the engine starts.
- Disengage the chain brake.
Tips for Easier Starting
- Fresh Fuel Mix: Always use a fresh, properly mixed fuel and oil mixture. Stale fuel is a common cause of starting problems.
- Cleanliness: Keep the saw clean, especially around the air filter and cooling fins.
- Spark Plug: Ensure the spark plug is clean and properly gapped.
- Read Your Manual: Consult your specific model's owner's manual, as starting procedures can vary slightly between models.
Following these steps, including the stabilization and pull technique described in the reference, will help you safely and effectively start your Husqvarna chainsaw.
