You just bought your new tree trimming equipment and don’t know how to start a pole saw? Or your pole saw will not start, and you don’t know why?
Don’t worry! I will cover in this article how to start an electric and a gas pole saw, and I will give you a checklist of what to look for when your pole saw does not start.
How to start a pole saw
Starting an electric pole saw or a gas pole saw is different. So, what you have to do to get your pole saw running, depends on what kind of pole saw you have. First, I will explain the steps you have to do to start your electric pole saw. Then I will cover the steps needed to start your gas pole saw.
ALSO READ: Step-By-Step Guide – How To Use A Pole Saw
How to start an electric pole saw
Before you start an electric pole saw, it’s important to take some safety precautions.
Preparations to do before using an electric pole saw
A pole saw has 3 segments, allowing you to fold it down and store it. You should ensure that you know the different segments well. Handling a tool that you don’t often use can be quite tricky, as well as risky. The motor will be visible, and you’ll be able to see it when you’re using the pole saw. The blade will start after you push the switch.
Explore the accessories in the bag and the instruction manual before operating the electric pole saw. If you’ve lost yours, here’s a manual that you can read regarding the precautionary measures to take before operating an electric pole saw.
Although using a manual pole saw is easy, especially once you get the hang of it, the electric ones are fast and tricky in the beginning. While you’ll be able to cut more branches more quickly, you should have a clear plan on how you want to navigate the process. Further, make sure that you lubricate the chain before you start the cutting or pruning task.
How to start an electric pole saw?
- Unbox the electric pole saw from the box in which you’re storing it
- Remove the lid covering the chain portion of the pole saw
- Check for the chain and ensure that the tension is right
- Look for any wooden shavings that might have been left over from the previous use, if there are any, simply wipe them off using a towel
- Add the lubrication oil to the oil chamber in your electric pole saw to ensure the saw runs smoothly
- Plug the electric pole saw to the extension cord and connect the extension cord to the power outlet
- Check once if the pole saw is working by simply toggling on the switch and pressing down the safety lever before pulling the throttle
- If you’re able to reach till here without any hiccups, you’re all good to go and cut some trees!
- Make sure that you wear the safety equipment before pruning or cutting branches and always cut by holding the pole saw firmly and at an angle away from the body
How to start a gas pole saw
Before you start a gas pole saw, it’s important to take some safety precautions.
Preparations to do before using a gas pole saw
A gas pole saw is slightly more dangerous than an electric pole saw if you don’t follow the safety regulations. It is important to properly prepare yourself before you begin using this kind of pole saw. First of all, ensure that you’re using a gas pole saw that is safe and ready to be used. Clear out the area so that you avoid any accidents from falling limbs and only cut less than 8-inches.
It is important to check for the weather conditions so that you don’t have a bad experience. Gas pole saws, especially the ones having extensions to reach more than 8 feet, are pretty heavy and tiring to use, so prepare yourself accordingly. Lastly, you should be prepared for a kickback as you start using the gas pole saw.
How to start a gas pole saw?
- Unbox the gas pole saw from the box in which you’re storing it
- Remove the lid covering the blade portion of the pole saw
- Check for the chain and ensure that the tension is right
- Look for any wooden shavings that might have been left over from the previous use, if there are any, simply wipe them off using a towel
- Before doing anything, lock the safety switch into the start position while squeezing the throttle trigger
- Flip the choke of the gas pole saw in a stop/closed position if you’ve not used it for many days, if it was used recently, set the choke to an open/run position
- Press the fuel bulb at least 5-6 times to allow the fuel to flow in the engine
- Now firmly hold the pole saw and pull the string multiple times until the engine starts running
- Let the engine warm up for a few seconds and toggle off the switch
- Now toggle on the safety switch and repeat the entire procedure again, and you’re ready to cut branches
What to do if the pole saw will not start?
There could be many reasons why a pole saw will not start. Again, it depends on if you’re using an electric pole saw or a gas pole saw.
Electric pole saw will not start
An electric pole saw, as the name suggests, relies on electricity instead of gas or manual power for functioning and allowing the chain to rotate. However, sometimes there might be a situation where your pole saw will not start.
These are a few common issues that you should look for when your electric pole saw isn’t functioning the way you want it to.
- Throttle – If the throttle lockout is engaged, simply hold down the throttle lockout and then squeeze the control.
- Power cord issues – Ensure that your electric pole saw’s cord is properly connected to the power source.
- Check the circuit breaker – Another potential issue to check upon is if the circuit breaker is working properly or if it is tripped.
- Battery – If your electric pole saw uses a battery, then check if the battery is faulty or if it requires replacement. If it isn’t starting when the saw is plugged into the power source, the battery isn’t the culprit.
- Fuse – If the battery in the pole saw appears fine, but the tool isn’t working, check the fuse. Try an alternative extension cord and plug it into the power source.
- Check for sharpness and lubrication – Make sure that the chain in your pole saw is properly lubricated. A dry saw might not run properly and will be louder than normal. Moreover, a dull and dry saw might start producing smoke, which is a signal that oil is required. Occasionally oil the chain during the cutting or pruning process or if the pole saw has auto-lubrication, do it once or twice during the process.
Gas pole saw will not start
A gas pole saw is great for cutting and pruning your yard, but sometimes it’ll struggle to start. Some of the issues that your gas pole saw might face are:
- Spark plug – Check for the spark plug for potential signs of wear or damage. In case the porcelain insulator is cracked, the electrode can be burnt or damaged, or there might even be heavy carbon buildup at the electrode. You can determine whether the spark plug is defective or not by using a spark plug tester.
- Carburetor – Sometimes, a gas pole saw might not start if the carburetor is clogged. A clogged carburetor is commonly caused if you leave fuel in the gas pole saw for an extended period of time. Over time, some of the ingredients might evaporate, leaving a thick, sticky substance that prevents the engine from starting.
- Fuel filter – Another potential issue could be if the fuel filter is clogged. Similar to a carburetor, a clogged fuel filter is commonly caused when you leave behind fuel for a long duration, and over time, the ingredients evaporate. The buildup prevents the engine from starting, and you must drain out the old fuel and replace the fuel filter.
- Air filter – If the air filter is clogged, the engine will receive too much fuel and not an ample amount of air. As a result, the engine wouldn’t start, and you won’t be able to use your gas pole saw. In case the air filter is clogged, you will have to replace it.
Conclusion
There you have it, now you probably have a better idea of how to start a pole saw and how to troubleshoot issues on why your pole saw will not start. Implement this information the next time you use your electric pole saw and effortlessly cut or prune the trees in your yard.
