Replace fuel line on Stihl 044?

[hdivr]

Bought a used Stihl 044 that hasn't been ran in about 12 years. Still looks new. Starts up and runs full throttle just fine.....but won't idle. Dies whenever letting off the throttle. Replaced plug, air filter, etc. Checked the fuel line thinking that there might be a small air leak and guess what??? Sure enough, the fuel line fell apart. Anyone know the proper procedure to replace a fuel line on a Stihl Chainsaw?? Do you have to remove the carb to be able to run the fuel line properly?? Or can it be done with carb on even though it seems like a VERY tight fit to route it into gas tank?

 

[Dadatwins]

Welcome to site, Saw probably sat with fuel in the tank that is why the line dried up and fell apart. Easier to remove the carb and install fuel line, I would also replace the pulse line while I have it apart as it is probably shot also. Also check the rubber carb boot to make sure it is not dried up and cracked also. If you tried to run the saw with the bad line you probably want to open the carb anyway and make sure it is clean, or possibly in need of a rebuild. There is a screen inside the carb on the fuel intake side, and if the fuel line was dried and crumbly it could have sucked in some outside debris that is now in the carb. Good luck.