My ,almost new, McCulloch chainsaw (38cc 14inch bar) worked perfectly the first three times I used it but now won't start. Problem seems to be that there is no spark at plug. Fuel & filters , both ok. Could this problem be caused by dampness in ignition system? The saw has been stored in a garden shed. I'm a bit wary of even opening up the ignition as it's a completely new system to me.

Ken Michie, April 2008

Are you sure there is no spark? It will be hard to see in sunlight. Also with so many saws and mowers now made of plastic getting an earth is not easy. Unfortunately many of the coil modules do not appear to have a safety spark gap (unlike vintage magnetos) and testing the plug without a good earth can destroy the ignition module. Be sure that you don't have a faulty stop switch by disconnecting the stop wire. I had immense trouble with McCulloch 110s and 140s stalling when hot. The finely spaced cylinder fins would clog with wood dust. The real solution was to buy a Stihl 017. Problem solved!

Davey, November 2010

speak to stan!

dodnas, September 2009

I reread your question, if its fairly new , I would return it or ck. it for warranty repair at an authorized repair center

stan, April 2008

if there is no spark, acess your on/off switch and remove one wire. now see if you have spark. (i'm assuming you have removed the spark plug wire).insert the spark plug into the wire,hold the plug against the head so that the ground electrode is making contactif you still don't have spark,it may be the plug, if you can't ck. continuity, try another plug. contact a dealer for an ignition system, parts break down and have at it , may require special tools, once you get to the ign. system ,whether points/condencer 0r electronic, look it over for damaged wire or the obvious if points ,they may not be gapped correctly or you could let the dealer repair it, the cost of which may be as much or more than a new one.Mccullock has changed hands a few times which may pose a problem.

stan, April 2008