Stihl MS250 Won’t Start
It is indisputable that the Stihl MS 250 is a high-quality chainsaw owing to its excellent horsepower and lightweight design. However, the product does not come without flaws.
The majority of problems regarding the chainsaw arise during start-up. Even with plenty of fuel in the tank, the saw still does not fire up.
In most cases, Stihl MS250 starting problems are caused by a faulty carburetor or a malfunctioning ignition system. You must clean the carb with a carburetor cleaner to fix the issue or replace the spark plug.
In the article, I discuss a few more common reasons for your Stihl 250 not starting. I am also going to include detailed solutions and user reviews later in the article.
Let’s dive right in!
Stihl MS MS250 Problems and Quick Table
This brief table outlines the most prevalent causes of MS250 not starting and their potential solutions.
| Stihl MS 250 Problems | Quick Fixes |
|---|---|
| Faulty Ignition System | Check sparks and replace the Ignition System if necessary |
| Dirty Fuel Intake | Thoroughly clean up the Air Filter |
| Damaged Carburetor | Clean or install an upgrade kit |
| Lack of Compression | Use higher compression engine |
Stihl MS250 Starting Problems and Fixes – Comprehensive Discussion
If your Stihl Ms250 isn’t starting up, there are a couple of things you can check. Plus, follow up the ways to fix the problems before things get out of your hands.
Problem 1: Faulty Ignition System
This can be caused by several different issues, but the most common problem is dirty or corroded connections. Further, ripped-off wires are another major defect that malfunctions the ignition system.
Process of Fixing
- The positive wire must first be disconnected to separate the coil from the Stihl MS250 electrical system.
- After taking the wire out, look for sparks.
- If there are no sparks, there is an issue with the ignition coils.
- You must replace the ignition module to resolve the issue.
Problem 2: Dirty Fuel Intake
Another issue that can cause starting problems is a clogged air filter. When you don’t clean and replace the air filter in a while it gets dirty or clogged up with dust resulting in a defective fuel system.
Process of Fixing
- Inspect the air filter thoroughly.
- Use a brush to clean up any debris.
- You better use hot water and mild detergents for cleansing the machine.
Problem 3: Damaged Carburetor
The carburetor is the part of your Stihl Ms250 that brings in fuel from the tank and mixes it with air to create the mixture that powers your engine. There are a few things that can cause this, including damaged needle-sealed valves, dirty jets and bores, and struck levers.
Process of Fixing
- Disassemble the carburetor to clean out all of the holes.
- Use compressed air to blow through the holes to remove any blockages.
- If you notice worn-out parts, you better set up an upgrade kit instead of buying a new Stihl MS 250 chainsaw.
Problem 4: Faulty Connections
You must look into the wiring connections as closely as you can because those are what most likely led to the issue. Cables that are worn out, linings that are detached, connections that are misaligned, etc.
Process of Fixing
- Inspect your Stihl MS 250 for frayed cables, incorrect connections, or defective linings.
- If you find any problems, fix them right away.
- Place and join the new wires to the ignition module’s tabs before replacing the recoil assembly.
Stihl MS 250 Troubleshooting
It is extremely frustrating when your brand new MS250 won’t start. Having used the saw for a while, I figured out a few solutions to the issue. Let’s check them out.
- Check Wiring and Connections
As I mentioned earlier, damaged or corroded wiring can cause starting problems. It is also possible for the wires to become loose with time.
Hence, inspect the connections between the battery, starter, ignition, and spark plug. Make sure they are neat and tight.
If the wires have been severely damaged, they may need replacing.
- Clean the Fuel Tank or Air Filter
Your saw cannot utilize fuel efficiently if you have a dirty fuel tank. Thus, it won’t start. You must thoroughly clean the tank to make the tool work again.
However, I have seen numerous instances in which the fuel tank was tidy, but the air filter wasn’t.
Many times, a filter gets clogged up badly, preventing the saw from starting. Therefore, first, check whether the filter or tank is clogged, then clean it.
- Fix the Ignition System
The chainsaw may have trouble starting if the ignition system does not function properly.
One of the essential components of this system is the spark plug. It might just need cleaning or perhaps a replacement.
Assuming the plug is fine, it could be the ignition coil, the flywheel, or the stator that is malfunctioning. These are all parts of the ignition system prone to wear and tear, as well as damage from dirt or water.
- Check the Carburetor
The carburetor mixes the fuel and air necessary to run the engine. If it is broken, the engine will run lean. Moreover, carburetors are often clogged, preventing fuel from reaching the engine.
All of this renders your 250 saw incapable of starting.
To clean the carburetor, disassemble it after removing it from the saw. Once you’ve dismantled it, use a carburetor cleaner and a brush for cleaning.
- Unflood the Engine
To fix a flooded engine, take out the spark plug first. After that, turn the chainsaw over several times so that the excess fuel can drain away.
Once the fuel is gone, reconnect the spark plug and start the chainsaw again.
- Inspect the Spark Arrestor
If your Stihl 250 still refuses to start, a dirty spark arrestor may be the reason.
Dirt and debris can accumulate in the spark arrestor over time. This prevents sparks from forming. You need to clean the arrestor to fix that.
Reasons Why The Stihl MS250 Won’t Start When Hot
Here are three reasons your MS 250 chainsaw won’t start when it’s hot:
- Vapor Lock
There is a strong possibility of a vapor lock. It occurs when liquid fuel in a carburetor turns into vapor.
This can happen if the engine runs at too high of a temperature. All of it blocks the fuel’s path to the engine. As a result, the saw will not start.
To solve this issue, remove the debris from the vents of the fuel tank.
- Obstructed Fuel Line
It is common for a heated engine to impede fuel flow to the carburetor. This could be caused by either the fuel line or the air filter.
If the problem is with the filter, all you need to do is clean it. However, a clogged fuel line is nearly impossible to clean, so replacement is the only option.
- Carburetor
A clogged carburetor can also prevent your Stihl 250 chainsaw from starting when it is hot. In that case, you should use a carburetor repair cleaning kit to clean it.
How To Start Stihl MS 250?
Tired of having to try over and over again, but your Stihl MS250 chainsaw will not start? Here is what you should do to avoid this problem:
- Be sure the saw is positioned on a flat surface and keep the chain away from obstacles.
- Ensure that the fuel tank is full and has the correct oil level.
- Now, pull the choke lever completely out.
- Press the primer bulb repeatedly until it appears firm to the touch.
- After that, press the throttle trigger and keep it held while you slowly pull on the starter rope. Keep going until you experience resistance.
- Start the engine by pulling rapidly on the starter rope.
- Upon turning on the engine, engage the choke lever and let off the throttle gradually.
Why Is the Stihl Ms250 Hard to Pull?
The Stihl ms250 is a chainsaw that can be used for cutting wood. It has a motor that is powerful enough to cut through these materials. However difficult to pull the starter cord can become very frustrating especially when you need to get some work done quickly.
There are several reasons why this may happen like
- Twisted rope
- Faulty pully system
- Using the wrong type of oil in an inappropriate ratio
- Broken starter spring
- Damaged starter house
That being said, you can first detach the spark plug and pull it out, then pull the rope as this method usually works easily.
Why My Stihl MS250 Is Hard to Start?
One of the main causes of the problematic start on your MS 250 chainsaw is most likely flooding. If so, all you have to do is yank the chord while at the full choke.
After three pulls, release the choke; however, don’t continue to yank since this may cause flooding. Your chainsaw will start up right then.
How To Adjust the Carburetor on A Stihl MS250?
If the chain spins on its own, the engine idles irregularly, or the engine won’t idle when the throttle trigger is depressed, adjust the carb.
Find the idle (LA), low-speed (L), and high-speed (H) adjustment screws next to the carburetor. Run the chainsaw far away from the fueling location and give it some time to warm up.
If the saw engine shuts off after releasing the throttle, use a screwdriver to adjust the low speed and idle.
Turn the screw of low speed clockwise using a screwdriver until it stops, and then make one counterclockwise turn. Turn the screw of the idle speed clockwise till the saw gets idle and the chain spins, and then slide back the idle screw one-fourth counterclockwise.
If the chain spins on its own while idling, set the low-speed and idle screws.
Rotate the screw of low speed clockwise till it stops, and then one counterclockwise turn. Rotate the screw of the idle counterclockwise till the chain stops spinning, and then slide the screw one-fourth clockwise turn.
Rotate the screw of high speed clockwise for a leaner fuel mixture. You better rotate the screw one-fourth for a smoother run.
How To Unflood Stihl Ms250?
To unflood, a Stihl MS250,
- Find a flat surface and place the chainsaw.
- Engage the chain brake by pulling back on the chain brake lever.
- Then clean off the electrode with a towel. If you see dirt, remove it with a brush or another cloth before proceeding.
- Take the wire out from the spark plug and detach it using a spark plug wrench.
- Next, remove and clean the air filter.
- After that, fix the master control lever to the open or minimum choke position.
- It’s time to yank the starting rope at least six times so that the fuel drains out from the combustion chamber.
- Replace the spark plug, and air filter and connect the wires of the spark plug.
- Finally, tug on the rope several times while keeping the choke open, and your chainsaw will start.
User Feedback on Stihl MS 250
I always determine whether a chainsaw is worth buying based on customer reviews. Who knows a product better than the person who uses it?
Fortunately, the Stihl 250 chainsaw has a lot of positive reviews from users.
One of the users expressed satisfaction with the 250 saw, which he uses on his 5 acres of woodland. A big plus for him is how well the tool cuts firewood and fells small and medium trees.
Another customer with over thirty years of experience using chainsaws praised its lightweight. He is impressed by the 250 saw’s cutting ability, considering how lightweight it is.
There was one user who had a specific complaint regarding the unit. He found it quite irritating that he had to follow a specific starting process or else the product would flood.
Overall, the MS 250 chainsaw has many positive reviews that emphasize its durability and power, as well as its excellent cutting abilities. In addition, users appreciated how easy it was to maintain the saw.
3 Alternatives To The Stihl MS 250 Chainsaw
Let’s examine some alternatives to the Stihl 250 chainsaw if you’ve grown tired of it.
If you are looking for a saw built for heavy-duty use, the Echo CS-590 Timber Wolf could be a good alternative. It is powered by a 59.8 cc engine capable of tackling a wide range of tree-cutting tasks.
And weighing only 13.2 pounds, you can carry the power tool easily.
The Husqvarna 455 Rancher is a great all-around tool perfect for felling trees, chopping firewood, and clearing brush.
This chainsaw has a huge 20-inch bar and a powerful 3.5 horsepower engine, which offers better cutting performance than the Stihl 250.
The Makita EA4300F40B offers great value at a low price if you are willing to sacrifice some power. There is a 42 cc engine on this machine, enough to cut small trees.
One thing I wanted to mention is the extra features of the saw, including its electric start and chain brake.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much is a Stihl MS250 worth?
The Stihl MS250 is worth a range of prices depending on its condition and where you purchase it. However, you can expect to pay around $400 for a new Stihl MS250.
How Do You Prime The Stihl MS250?
To prime the Stihl MS250, find the primer bulb near the engine. Depress the bulb a few times until you see fuel flowing into the carburetor.
Once the primer bulb has been depressed several times, the starter cord can be pulled to start the engine.
Why my Stihl Ms250 Chainsaw Will Not Start?
The primary cause of your MS250’s inability to start is malfunctioning ignitions. As a result, you must examine all points such as defective wiring, inappropriate air gaps, rusted spark plugs, and damaged wires that prevent the engine from direct combustion.
Also Know: 7 Most Common Stihl MS 271 Problems and Solutions
To Sum Up
As you read in the article, many factors can lead to the Stihl MS250 failing to start. It is often the result of a damaged carburetor, faulty ignition system, or low compression.
Thanks to the instructions I provided in the article, you can fix any of these problems on your own.
