If you love garden maintenance, you will have already heard of chainsaw carburation. But what does it mean exactly?
A chainsaw carburettor is designed to regulate fuel intake inside the engine, so as to achieve the proper air-fuel ratio.
If the carburettor is correctly adjusted, the chainsaw will deliver maximum performance; on the other hand, if it is poorly calibrated, the machine's cutting power will be compromised.
But how do we know when the chainsaw carburation is correctly set, and above all, what are best ways to maintain proper carburation in the long run?
Neither too rich nor too lean
Perfect carburation enables the engine to start effortlessly and without a hitch. In this way, the engine revs increase quickly when accelerating and a smooth noise is emitted at full speed. When the throttle is released, the chain stops turning, and the engine stabilises at idle speed and remains running even when you rotate the chainsaw in different positions.
If carburation is lean, which means that the mixture entering the engine contains too much air, there may be insufficient power to trigger the ignition, or the chainsaw may be prone to acceleration gaps.
On the other hand, if it is too rich, the accumulation of petrol in the engine is likely to soil the spark plug, jeopardising initial firing and thereby preventing proper ignition, as well as generating a smoky exhaust.
Modifying the factory-set carburation parameters can lead to incorrect adjustment and operation, potentially causing serious damage to the chainsaw engine.
The importance of keeping filters and spark plug clean
Before working on the carburation settings, it is advisable to check the machine’s condition, frequently cleaning the air intake filter, fuel filter and spark plug.
The air filter, which is located in front of the carburettor, traps dust and impurities that could otherwise cause serious engine damage. It can be made of sponge, nylon, felt or other materials, which are often combined to increase efficiency.
Obviously a soiled filter can alter the fuel-air ratio, reducing engine efficiency, preventing starting, increasing fuel consumption and generating soot.
Regardless of the type of filter, this protective device must be intact and cleaned properly according to the manufacturer's instructions.
The fuel filter, like the air filter, is designed to prevent waste or impurities from reaching the carburettor, which could compromise the machine’s correct operation.
It can be made of sponge, nylon, felt or other materials, which are often combined to increase efficiency. Obviously a soiled filter can alter the fuel-air ratio, reducing engine efficiency, preventing starting, increasing fuel consumption and generating soot.
The spark plug triggers the spark (between the central electrode and the ground electrode) that causes the mixture to ignite. For the engine to work properly, the spark plug must have the correct heat range and thread, as specified by the chainsaw manufacturer.
It is also advisable to periodically check the state of the spark plug and clean encrustations from the electrodes. Excessive build-up of encrustations may be caused by an overly rich mixture (too much oil in the fuel), low-quality oil or a dirty air filter.
In all cases, the spark plug must be replaced if the electrodes are worn.
For correct carburation, it is advisable to always contact an authorised service centre.
And to choose the right lubricants
Another important consideration when it comes to carburation is the choice of lubricants.
Lubrication is essential for keeping all the machine components in good condition and ensuring smooth carburation.
From oil to alkylate petrol for making fuel mixture at home, as well as special greases, detergents and special additives, on MyEfco.com you will find everything you need to take care of your chainsaw.
