Start up without the air filter on?

[Dan Forsh]

Hi Guys,

Going off the topic of chainsaws again, but it is related. I'm waiting to take delivery of a Dolmar 309 concrete saw which has been described as "starts up without the air filter on" Does this immediately bring anything to mind as to what I should look for? Or should I assume this means that the filter is in need of replacement and a carb kit?

Thanks,

Dan

 

[TimberPig]

Most likely it means a plugged filter, and possibly a rich carb setup. It may need a rebuild on the carb, or could simply require a new filter and a carb adjustment.

 

[clearance]

I would run away on instinct, I have run cutoff saws before, cutting rebar, pipe and of course concrete. The filters on these saws are a lot bigger and different than on chainsaws. Concrete dust is very fine and abrasive, it is not wood chips. If it has been worked in concrete without the filter I wouldn't have anything to do with it.

 

[Dan Forsh]

I see your point, but (hopefully) I don't think that's what he means. He just says that it will start up without the air filter on it. Indeed, God help me if it has been used without the air filter on for any length of time!

 

[jp hallman]

How old is this saw? Sounds like it could be a cracked(leaking) fuel line or tank vent.

 

[Dan Forsh]

Don't know, but I don't think they still make these.

I actually have another one with a shot cylinder and piston, so I kind of bought it with this in mind. If it comes down to it that I can make one good saw, then I'm not bothered. The saw cost me less that the cylinder kit would have. Worst case scenario I end up with two parts saws.

 

[tonka]

Good chance this one has a shot cylinder and piston, if it's been run without the air filter.

 

[Big feller]

I bought a saw a while ago that would only start with the air filter removed. It turned out that someone had messed with the carb settings. I wound the screw in 3 turns, out 1 and a half as per carb manual and all returned to normal. I hope it works for you!

Big feller.

 

[Dan Forsh]

Cheers for that Big Fella!

I know that feeling too. Once bought a "Spares or repairs" 028. Adjusted the carb and taped up the bare parts on the kill switch wire and away it went.

 

[Lakeside53]

Good chance this one has a shot cylinder and piston, if it's been run without the air filter.

..and also the main bearings and big end... Concrete dust is a ????? once inside... See it all the time on Stihl cut-off saws.


To answer the first question, you really can't tell. It's a crap-shoot and you'll just have to take a gamble (or not). Might be dead simple, or a complete pile of junk.