shadrock

I got out the old chainsaw to clean up after Isabel hit. Starting it was not the easiest thing and it puffed a little blue smoke at first. Once things got going it was fine and got the job done. Is there anything I should do now before storing it again? Is it ok to leave gas/oil mix in the tank?

jbrooks544

I wouldn't want to leave gas in there more than 6 months without using it. Even if you did you would want to put fuel preservative in it, like sta-bil brand or sim.
Just run it until it runs out of gas, whether you dump out the remaining gas first or not. Then there is no gas to gunk up inside. Make sure you have chain lube on hand so you won't be tempted to run it without it. Check tightness of blad and adjust. Every couple years light use I sharpen mine. Picked up a kit at the hardware store, or maybe northern catalog and it takes maybe 1/2 hour. Worth it - saw cuts like butta.

shadrock

Thanks!

bmcelvein

I find that replacing spark plugs always helps with those little engines. I change them annually on my mowers and just changed one on my one year old chainsaw. The mowers are both over 10 years old and always start on the first try.

pocon1

Try to avoid the skull when cutting. The bone is really too dense. Keep to the limbs, and remember to make strong downward strokes. And remember to keep it warmed up so it will start instantly. If you give those coeds a head start, they can be tricksy to catch. Whoops, I thought this was tilted weapons. My mistake.