The chainsawsmall engine often has a separate model number. Use the small engine model number for a complete list of symptoms and parts. Watch our model # lookup video for help finding the model number.
The part(s) or condition(s) listed below for the symptom Chainsaw running rough are ordered from most likely to least likely to occur. Check or test each item, starting with the items at the top of the page.
Chainsaw Not Cutting? Chainsaw Troubleshooting
Chainsaw Running Rough? Chainsaw Troubleshooting
Chainsaw Starts, Then Stalls? Chainsaw Troubleshooting
Chainsaw Won't Start? Chainsaw Troubleshooting
Chainsaw Chain Won't Stop Turning? Chainsaw Troubleshooting
Chainsaw Chain Not Turning? Chainsaw TroubleshootingThe carburetor might be clogged. A clogged carburetor is often caused by leaving fuel in the chainsaw for a long period of time. Over time, some of the ingredients in the fuel will evaporate, leaving behind a thicker, stickier substance. This sticky fuel can clog up the carburetor and cause the engine to stall or run roughly. If the carburetor is clogged, try cleaning it with carburetor cleaner. If cleaning the carburetor isn’t effective, rebuild or replace the entire carburetor.
The carburetor might be clogged. A clogged carburetor is often caused by leaving fuel in the chainsaw for a long period of time. Over time, some of the ingredients in the fuel will evaporate, leaving behind a thicker, stickier substance. This sticky fuel can clog up the carburetor and cause the engine to stall or run roughly. If the carburetor is clogged, try cleaning it with carburetor cleaner. If cleaning the carburetor isn’t effective, rebuild or replace the entire carburetor.
The air filter may be clogged or dirty. If the air filter is clogged, the engine will get too much fuel and not enough air. As a result, the engine may stall or run roughly. Inspect the air filter to determine if it is clogged. If the air filter is clogged, replace it.
The fuel filter might be clogged. A clogged fuel filter is often caused by leaving old fuel in the chainsaw. Over time, some of the ingredients in the fuel may evaporate, leaving behind a thicker, stickier substance. This sticky fuel can clog up the fuel filter and cause the engine to run roughly. If old fuel was left in the chainsaw, drain the old fuel from the fuel tank and replace the fuel filter.
The foam filter may be clogged or dirty. Inspect the filter to determine if it is clogged. If the filter is clogged, replace it.
The spark arrestor might be clogged. The spark arrestor is a small screen that prevents the engine from emitting sparks. Over time, the spark arrestor can become clogged with soot. If the spark arrestor is clogged, the chainsaw may run roughly. To unclog the spark arrestor, remove it and clean it with a wire brush. You can also replace the spark arrestor.
