Why Will the Poulan 2150 Predator Chainsaw Not Start?

Old Gasoline

• If your engine will not start, ensure that you are not using a gasoline mixture older than 90 days old. Moisture can build up within the gasoline mixture, which creates acids in the mixture. This acid can damage your engine's fuel system. To avoid this problem, empty your gasoline tank if you are planning to store your chainsaw for more than 30 days. Let the engine run until it stops to remove any lingering fuel. Only fill the tank with fresh fuel before using it again.

Flooded/Wrong Mixture

• If your engine smokes or if you smell fuel burning, you may have a flooded engine. To remedy this problem, just let your engine sit for between 15 and 30 minutes, and try starting it again. If that doesn't work, turn off the choke, and turn on the fast idle. Turn your power switch on and off, and hold the chainsaw on the ground. Yank the start rope but not to its full length. If your engine still doesn't start, change your spark plug. Another reason for a smoking engine is an incorrect mixture. Ensure that you are using a 40:1 ratio, which is 3.2 oz. of two-cycle, air-cooled engine oil to 1 gallon of gasoline.

Filters/Spark Plug

• A dirty air filter can cause your engine not to start or accelerate properly, or it can also cause your engine to turn off while you are using it. Always clean your air filter when it is dirty, and replace as necessary. Also inspect your fuel filter, and clean or replace as necessary. Another reason for improper starting or stopping is a bad spark plug or an incorrect spark plug gap. The gap must be 0.025 inches. If the gap is correct, replace the spark plug. If none of these solutions fix the problem, adjust your carburetor, and ensure that your chain brake is not on.

Other Possibilities

• Always see that your ignition switch is on before trying to start your engine. If not, your engine will not start. Ensure that you have enough fuel in your fuel tank. If your carburetor is not getting enough fuel, see that your fuel filter is clean. If it is, ensure that your fuel line is not broken or bent. If it is, replace it.