Side-Gapping Saws That Don't Always Like to Start?

[Paul Bunions]

My modded CS-590 and my 562XP are sometimes a little balky when I try to start them. The CS-590 took maybe 20 pulls to get running today at about 75 degrees, and the 562XP can be annoying to start when the engine is hot. I have learned to hold the throttle wide open when it won't cooperate.

Would side-gapping the plugs make these saws any easier to start? I've read it helps.

 

[buzz sawyer]

Try it and see. Worst case is you waste a spark plug. I think it is recommended to reduce the gap by about 0.010" to compensate for the reduction in surface area for the spark.

 

[NSEric]

Are you using the fast idle for hot starts on the 562? Pull the choke on then push it off and dont touch the throttle.
The echo should start very easily. I think you have a carb issue or it's set too lean on the low side.

I ran 3 tanks through my brand new cs590 today. 1-2 pulls on choke and 3 on fast idle for cold starts and 1 pull every time hot.