How to Repair a Homelite E Z Automatic Chain Saw

Older chainsaws require a lot of repairs.

Homelite E Z automatic chainsaws are older saws produced a few generations ago. Their engine power is usually greater than the chainsaws of today, but they lack safety features and other amenities found on saws now. Many of these saws are still in use and can be purchased pretty cheaply if you are fond of these kinds of saws. Since they are older, you will likely have to perform a lot of home repairs to keep the saw running. Some simple tests can help you isolate the problem.

Things You'll Need

• Leather working gloves
• Screwdriver
• Gasoline
• Rag
• Toothbrush
• Wrench
• Socket wrench

Instructions

Air Compression Test

1. Put the saw on the ground. Place your right foot on the rear handle. Pull up on the starter cord to check for air compression. The engine should make a chugging noise.

2. Use the screwdriver to remove the starter cover if there's no air compression. Pull off the cover and inspect the starter cord, spring and recoil system for any damage. Replace any broken parts.

3. Clean inside the starter housing area with the toothbrush, gas and rag. Check the starter coil to see if it's broken or damaged.

4. Use the screwdriver to remove the muffler cover. Check inside the muffler and the exhaust port from the piston to make sure there is no damage. Clean these areas with the rag and toothbrush.

Spark Test

1. Remove the cylinder cover to access the spark plug. Check the starter wires and cables for any damage.

2. Pull off the spark plug's connector and remove the spark plug from the engine.

3. Attach the spark plug to the spark plug's connecting wire. Let the spark plug hang close to a metal spot on the engine block.

4. Pull on the starter cord, and check for a spark across the points. If there's no spark, replace the spark plug and repeat the test.

5. Replace the starter coil if a new spark plug doesn't solve the spark test.

Fuel Test

1. Drain both the gas and oil tanks. Clean them with a toothbrush, rag and carburetor cleaner.

2. Pull out the fuel and oil lines from the engine, and replace with new lines.

3. Remove, disassemble and clean the carburetor if the saw has a spark and air compression but still doesn't have gas getting to the engine.

References

• Lawn and Garden Manuals Online: Download A Homelite User's Manual
• Repair Spot: Two Stroke Engine and Carburetor Troubleshooting