How to Fill Up a Chainsaw

A chainsaw runs on a mixed fuel that delivers lubrication to the crankcase. Unlike an automobile, chainsaws don't use an oil pump, so they always need an oil added to the gasoline. Without the proper gas and oil in the engine, the chainsaw won't start, and, if it does, it may burn out and damage sensitive engine areas. While it may seem simple enough to fill up a chainsaw, like everything, there's a right way and a wrong way.

Approved, clean fuel container
Air-cooled, two-stroke engine oil
Regular unleaded gasoline, 87 octane or higher
Rag
Bar and chain oil

Instructions

- 1
  Turn off the chainsaw and wait for the chain to stop spinning before attempting to fill up a chainsaw. Set the saw on a level area of ground outdoors in a well-ventilated area.
- 2
  Mix into the cleaned-out, approved fuel container the regular unleaded gasoline and the two-stroke engine oil, according to your chainsaw's manufacturer's gas to oil-ratio guidelines. Pour the two-stroke engine oil into the container and add the gasoline on top. Close the fuel container's cap and vent hole and shake the container for 30 seconds to blend the fuel.
- 3
  Wipe away any dirt, sawdust or oil around the fuel tank (usually marked with a gas symbol) and oil tank caps (usually marked with in oil drop or can), which will prevent debris from falling into the tank. Loosen the cap on the fuel tank and set it aside in a clean area.
- 4
  Pour the mixed fuel into the tank until it nears the top but don't overfill the tank so gas spills out. Wipe off any spilled gas around the tank. Refit the cap and tighten it fully.
- 5
  Unscrew the cap on the oil tank. Pour enough bar and chain oil to fill the tank. Wipe up any spills with the rag before starting the chainsaw. Put away the fuel containers and clean up any fuel spills.

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