Pull the choke, set the throttle, and pull the cord – that’s the basic way to start a Stihl concrete saw. Learning how to start a Stihl concrete saw right is key to getting the job done without any fuss.
I’ve used these saws for years on all sorts of jobs. They can be a bit stubborn when they’re cold. But once you know the steps, it’s easy.
This guide will walk you through the whole process. We’ll cover the simple steps and the common mistakes people make. You’ll be cutting concrete in no time.
Let’s get your saw running. Follow these tips for a smooth start every single time.
What You Need Before You Start
You need a few things ready before you pull the cord. Don’t skip this part. It makes starting much easier.
First, check your fuel mix. Stihl saws use a special gas and oil blend. Use the right two-stroke oil they recommend.
Make sure you have a sharp diamond blade on the saw. A dull blade makes the engine work too hard. This can make starting tough.
Wear your safety gear. You need gloves, eye protection, and ear plugs. Concrete cutting is loud and messy.
Clear your work area. Move away any loose rocks or debris. You want a clean, flat spot to place the saw.
Check the saw for any obvious damage. Look at the fuel lines and the air filter. A clean saw starts better.
Now you’re ready. Let’s move on to the actual steps for how to start a Stihl concrete saw.
The Step-by-Step Starting Process
Here is the exact process I use every time. It works on most Stihl concrete saw models.
Place the saw on a level surface. Make sure the blade is not touching anything. Engage the chain brake for safety.
Find the fuel valve and turn it to the “On” position. This lets gas flow to the carburetor. Some newer models don’t have this valve.
Locate the choke lever. Push it all the way up or forward. This is the full choke position for a cold start.
Set the throttle trigger to the half-throttle position. You might need to push a lock-out lever first. Then squeeze the trigger and set it.
Now, pull the starter cord firmly and quickly. You might need to pull it two or three times. You should hear the engine try to fire.
Once the engine sputters, push the choke lever halfway down. This is the half-choke or fast-idle position. Pull the cord again.
The engine should start and run roughly. Let it run for a few seconds like this. Then push the choke lever all the way down to off.
Let the saw warm up for about 30 seconds. You can now release the chain brake and begin cutting. You’ve just learned how to start a Stihl concrete saw.
Why the Correct Fuel Mix Matters
Using the wrong fuel is the number one reason saws won’t start. It’s that simple.
Stihl engines are two-stroke. They need oil mixed right into the gasoline. This lubricates the engine as it runs.
The mix ratio is usually 50:1. That’s 50 parts gas to 1 part oil. Always check your owner’s manual to be sure.
Use fresh, high-octane gasoline. Don’t use gas that’s been sitting in a can for months. Old gas goes bad and gums up the carburetor.
I always use Stihl’s own brand of two-stroke oil. It’s made for their engines. Other brands might not work as well.
Mix the fuel in a clean, separate gas can. Shake it well before you pour it into the saw. This ensures the oil and gas are fully blended.
Never use straight gasoline. You will ruin the engine very fast. The repair cost is much higher than a bottle of oil.
Good fuel is the first step in learning how to start a Stihl concrete saw reliably. Don’t cut corners here.
Understanding the Choke Positions
The choke controls the air and fuel mix for starting. Knowing how it works helps a lot.
When the engine is cold, it needs a very rich fuel mixture. The “Full Choke” position cuts off most of the air. This sends more fuel into the engine.
After a few pulls, the engine gets a little fuel in it. You then move to “Half Choke.” This lets in some air so the engine can run.
Once the engine is running, you move the choke to “Off.” The engine now gets a normal air and fuel mix for running.
If you leave the choke on full after the engine fires, it will flood. Too much fuel drowns the spark plug. Then it won’t start at all.
If you don’t use the choke on a cold engine, it won’t get enough fuel. You’ll pull the cord all day with no result.
The trick is listening to the engine. When it sputters on full choke, switch to half choke right away. This is a key part of how to start a Stihl concrete saw.
Practice this sequence. It becomes second nature after a few times.
If Your Saw Still Won’t Start
Sometimes, even when you do everything right, the saw won’t start. Don’t panic. Here’s what to check.
First, check for spark. Remove the spark plug and reconnect the wire. Hold the plug against the engine metal and pull the cord. You should see a blue spark.
No spark means an ignition problem. The spark plug might be fouled or the ignition coil could be bad. Replace the spark plug first, as it’s cheap.
If you have spark, check if the plug is wet. A wet plug means fuel is getting to the cylinder. The engine might be flooded.
Let a flooded engine sit for 10 minutes with the choke off. Then try starting again without using the choke. This clears out the extra fuel.
A dry plug means no fuel is getting in. Check the fuel filter in the tank. It might be clogged. Also check the fuel lines for cracks.
The carburetor could be dirty. Old fuel leaves a sticky varnish inside. You might need to clean it or use a fuel system cleaner.
Check the air filter. A very dirty filter chokes the engine. It can’t get enough air to start. Clean it or replace it if it’s filthy.
Following this checklist solves most starting problems. It’s part of mastering how to start a Stihl concrete saw in any condition.
Warm Start vs. Cold Start Procedure
Starting a warm engine is different from a cold one. Using the wrong method causes frustration.
A cold start needs the choke. We already covered that full and half choke process. That’s for an engine that hasn’t run in hours.
A warm start is much simpler. The engine is already near operating temperature. It doesn’t need the rich fuel mixture from the choke.
For a warm start, leave the choke lever in the “Off” position. Just set the half-throttle and pull the cord. It should start in one or two pulls.
If you use the choke on a warm engine, you will flood it. You’ll smell a strong gas odor. Then you have to wait for it to clear.
How can you tell if it’s warm? If you shut it off less than 10-15 minutes ago, it’s probably still warm. If you can feel heat coming from the engine, it’s warm.
When in doubt, try starting without the choke first. If it doesn’t fire after two pulls, then try the half-choke position. This is a smart way to learn how to start a Stihl concrete saw without flooding it.
Knowing this difference saves you time and pulls on the starter cord. Your shoulder will thank you.
Essential Safety Tips for Starting
Safety is not an option. Concrete saws are powerful and dangerous tools.
Always make sure the blade is clear of the ground and any objects. The saw can jump when it starts if the blade is pinched.
Engage the chain brake before you pull the starter cord. This locks the blade from spinning accidentally. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) stresses lock-out procedures for all powered equipment.
Keep a firm footing. Brace the saw with your foot in the designated handle or on the frame. Pull the starter cord straight out, not at an angle.
Never wrap the starter cord around your hand. A sudden kickback could injure you. Just use a firm grip on the handle.
Wear all your personal protective equipment (PPE). Safety glasses are a must to block flying concrete chips. Gloves protect your hands from vibration and heat.
Start the saw in an open, well-ventilated area. The exhaust contains carbon monoxide. The CDC’s NIOSH warns about the dangers of inhaling engine exhaust in closed spaces.
Following these rules is just as important as knowing how to start a Stihl concrete saw. They keep you safe on the job.
Routine Maintenance for Easy Starting
A well-maintained saw starts on the first or second pull. Neglect leads to hard starting.
Clean the air filter regularly. A dirty filter is the most common maintenance issue. Tap it clean or wash it if it’s a foam type. Let it dry completely before putting it back.
Change the spark plug once a season or after every 100 hours of use. A fresh plug gives a strong spark for reliable ignition.
Use a fuel stabilizer if you store the saw for more than a month. This keeps the gas from breaking down and clogging the carburetor. It’s a simple trick for how to start a Stihl concrete saw after long storage.
Check all the nuts and bolts for tightness. Vibration from cutting concrete can loosen them over time. A loose part can cause unsafe operation.
Keep the cooling fins on the engine clean. Mud and concrete dust can clog them. An overheated engine is hard to start and can be damaged.
At the end of the day, run the saw until the fuel tank is empty. This prevents old fuel from sitting in the carburetor. Storing it dry is best practice.
This basic upkeep takes just a few minutes. It makes the whole process of how to start a Stihl concrete saw much smoother.
Common Beginner Mistakes to Avoid
I’ve seen people make the same mistakes over and over. Avoid these and you’ll look like a pro.
Mistake one is pulling the cord too slowly. You need a fast, sharp pull to spin the engine fast enough. A weak pull won’t create a spark or suck in fuel.
Mistake two is not setting the throttle. The engine needs to be at half-throttle to start. If the trigger is at idle, it often won’t fire.
Mistake three is using the choke wrong. They either forget it when cold or use it when warm. Remember the rule: cold engine needs choke, warm engine does not.
Mistake four is using old or wrong fuel. They grab any gas can from the garage. This almost guarantees a no-start condition.
Mistake five is not priming the fuel system. On some models, there’s a small primer bulb. Press it a few times until you see fuel in the bulb. This fills the carburetor with fuel for an easier start.
Mistake six is giving up too soon. Sometimes a cold engine needs 5-6 pulls on full choke before it sputters. Be patient and follow the steps.
Knowing these pitfalls is a huge part of learning how to start a Stihl concrete saw. You’ll avoid wasted time and effort.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I start a Stihl concrete saw that has been sitting for months?
First, drain all the old fuel from the tank and carburetor. Put in fresh, properly mixed fuel. Check the spark plug and air filter. Then follow the cold start procedure with the choke. It might take a few extra pulls to get the new fuel through the system.
Why does my saw start but then die when I give it throttle?
This usually means the carburetor is dirty or needs adjustment. The idle circuit works, but the main fuel jet is clogged. You may need to clean the carburetor or adjust the high-speed screw. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has guidelines on small engine maintenance to reduce emissions.
Can I use automotive oil for the fuel mix?
No, you must not. Automotive oil is not made for two-stroke engines. It does not burn cleanly and will cause carbon buildup and engine damage. Always use a high-quality two-stroke oil designed for air-cooled engines.
How many pulls should it take to start a Stihl concrete saw?
A well-tuned saw should start in 1-3 pulls when cold. If it takes more than 6 pulls, something is wrong. Check your fuel, spark, and air filter. A warm start should be 1-2 pulls at most.
What’s the proper way to pull the starter cord?
Use a smooth, fast motion. Pull straight out until you feel strong resistance, then let the cord rewind slowly. Don’t let it snap back. Don’t pull it all the way out to the very end, as this can damage the starter mechanism.
Is there a special technique for how to start a Stihl concrete saw in cold weather?
Yes, cold weather makes starting harder. Store the saw in a warmer place if possible. You might need to leave it on full choke for one or two more pulls before switching to half choke. Let it warm up a full minute before cutting. The US Forest Service provides training on operating equipment in various weather conditions.
Conclusion
So, how to start a Stihl concrete saw? It boils down to fresh fuel, the right choke setting, and a good, strong pull.
Remember the sequence: full choke, half throttle, pull until it sputters, then half choke, pull to start. It’s a simple dance between you and the machine.
Take care of your saw with regular maintenance. This makes starting easy every single time. Now you have the knowledge to get the job started right.