No matter how reliable a brand may be, like the sun rises in the east and sets in the west, a power tool will have issues. The manufactures admit that and issue troubleshooting solutions to fix any problem.
One problem with chainsaws that may be rare, but still occur is not cutting.
Echo, a manufacturer of power equipment including chainsaws, has published troubleshooting steps to help you determine why your Echo chainsaw isn’t cutting.
They suggest that there are six possible problems that could cause a no cutting scenario and claim that if you follow the instructions will ultimately discover what the issue is and will be able to fix it.
Troubleshooting Solutions For An Echo Chainsaw Not Starting
Echo identifies six reasons why one of their chainsaws may not cut. They include:
1. The Cutting Chain
2. An Unadjusted Chain
3. Problem With The Adjustment Screw
4. The Chain Bar
5. The Clutch
6. The Need For A Clutch Band Kit
The Cutting Chain
Echo points out that one of the most common reasons why their chainsaw won’t cut is a dull cutting chain. To fix the problem, the company suggests that you sharpen or replace the chain.
(Courtesy: Pro Tool Reviews at flickr.com)
An Unadjusted Chain
Perhaps the second most common problem concerning an Echo chainsaw not cutting is that the chain may not have the proper tension. They suggest that you first check the adjustment screw to determine if it is too loose. If it is, then it isn’t making proper contact with the wood. They suggest that if the chain is too tight, the chain may not rotate at the proper speed, causing the chain not to cut. Check the chain and fix it in according to whether it is too loose or too tight. In other words, use the adjustment screw to tighten the chain if it is too loose or to lessen the tension if it is too tight.
Adjustment Screw
In this case, the chain may not have the proper amount of tension. If the adjustment screw is too loose, then the chain may not make good contact with the wood. If the chain is too tight, it may not rotate at the proper speed so the chain does not cut properly. The remedy here is to either adjust the screw to make the chain tighter or looser depending on its condition.
Chain Bar
If your Echo chainsaw is not cutting and you’ve performed the first three troubleshooting suggestions, then check the chain bar. It could be bent or worn. The chain should slide easily and freely around the chain bar. If it doesn’t, then you will have to replace the chain bar. Chain oil from the oil reservoir lubricates the chain bar. Check the reservoir to assure that it is filled with oil.
Clutch
If the problem continues to persist, then check the clutch pads. They should be engaging the clutch drum to rotate the chain. If the clutch pads are worn out, they will not exert enough pressure on the clutch drum. If this is happening, then the chainsaw won’t cut properly. If the clutch pads are worn out, repair or replace the clutch assembly.
Clutch Band Kit
If the problem still persists, check the clutch band. It is a steel band that wraps around the clutch drum. The emergency stop lever activates it. If the emergency stop lever is engaged, it will prevent the chain from turning. If the clutch band is dragging with the stop lever disengaged, then try adjusting the clutch band.
If you follow these troubleshooting steps, then you will eventually diagnose the problem and will be able to fix it. If you’re still having problems, consult with your Echo dealer.
(Source: repairclinic.com)
