Larrie Loehr

 

 

My chainsaw model 340 is very difficult to start.   About twice out of 50 attempts.  Serial no. is 2HVXS.0414 AA - about 8 years old.  Hasn't been used for last two years,  Is 1/2 full of fuel with stabilizer compound.

 

I added fresh gas-oil mixture (did not throw out the old gas), pulled the starter, rested, tried again, and after several pulls, finally started.  Ran for about 5 miinutes, then I shut it off. Started again ok, and ran it a few minutes then shut it off.  

 

Tried again next day and it would not start after many attempts.  So, Studied the operations manual, cleaned air filter, checked sparkplug, blew it clean.  Couldn't find the fuel filter.

 

I then called the support line and it worked!  Their suggestion:  Ethanol in the gas rots the rubber fuel hoses over many months of non-use.  Damages the fuel and/or air filter too.  Solution:  Buy "40 Fuel," - a type of gas with no or little ethanol and does not require mixing oil ino it.  

 

In general, for about ten years, I too have found the Husvarna chain saws very difficult to start.  They need to innovate; perhaps visit Honda to see how Honda gets it machines started after two pulls.  Every time.  

 

Opportunity for a new startup anyone?!  Meanwhile, I'm on the way to the dealer for repair.