Some other stuff that I learned from my first Saw the 026, and my first String trimmer, Echo SRM 210 I think it was, is that eventually before the 20 year mark, I would need to begin to learn how to diagnose problems with starting or running performance issues. Some of which became lessons on carb rebuilds from a buddy's uncle who has been in lawn maintenance and equipment repairs for 40 years. He sure had a natural ability to diagnose. I say this because even after he rebuilt and adjusted my SRM 210, He did another USED SRM and said : "something doesn't sound right" He said it sounded like the exhaust was clogged. Turned out that mud dawbers had caked it up. Cleaned it, adjusted carb and we were good to go.
Sometimes we can only learn by first hand experiences, in my 026 case, it began life as my only saw, got used fairly regularly for clearing and firewood. then not so much, as I got fewer tree jobs. This led me to experience my first hard starting, poor running experiences.
By then, I was into the 2010's and could learn from people on here, youtube etc about diagnosing a saw/ 2 stroke engine the right ways.
In my case, I learned about gummed up fuel lines, impulse line, fuel filter, carb issues. In the process, I learned about what I feel is one of the most important things to watch for in saws other than fuel quality. A well sealed saw that is sealed where it is supposed to be and breathes where it needs as well. A lean running, insufficiently oiled saw spells trouble.
Sometimes we can only learn by first hand experiences, in my 026 case, it began life as my only saw, got used fairly regularly for clearing and firewood. then not so much, as I got fewer tree jobs. This led me to experience my first hard starting, poor running experiences.
By then, I was into the 2010's and could learn from people on here, youtube etc about diagnosing a saw/ 2 stroke engine the right ways.
In my case, I learned about gummed up fuel lines, impulse line, fuel filter, carb issues. In the process, I learned about what I feel is one of the most important things to watch for in saws other than fuel quality. A well sealed saw that is sealed where it is supposed to be and breathes where it needs as well. A lean running, insufficiently oiled saw spells trouble.