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Alternative Starting Methods?

Discussion in 'Chainsaws and Power Equipment' started by ~smokey~, Sep 23, 2020.

  1. ~smokey~

    ~smokey~

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    I'm looking for ideas to build an easier way of starting chainsaws, particularly larger displacement saws or one's that are just cranky to get going, I've seen a bunch of methods and decided on using this 12 volt starter mounted to the receiver hitch on the front or rear bumper. if anyone has any ideas, advice or if you've made your own alternate starting method please post up some pics and info.

    The starter will drive the flywheel the same way the pull starter does using the pawl slots.

    StarterMod1.JPG

    This Toyota starter should be strong enough for starting any chainsaw.

    StarterMod4.JPG





     
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  2. Backwoods Savage

    Backwoods Savage Moderator

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  3. ErikR

    ErikR

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    Cordless drill???





     
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  4. ~smokey~

    ~smokey~

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    Thanks Backwoods.
     
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  5. jo191145

    jo191145

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    I used the cordless drill method on my old Locke mowers when I collected them. Sure was easier getting them into running shape.
     
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  6. Eric VW

    Eric VW Moderator

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    That would be my choice too. For the splitter in winter I use a 3/4” socket chucked up in the corded hammer drill, splitter engine idle set to low. Speeds match perfectly = no getting flung across the yard.
     
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  7. Andimus Prime

    Andimus Prime

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    I’ve used an impact driver to start a (still) pretty cranky blower in the past.
     
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  8. chainsawsoldier

    chainsawsoldier

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    I have a blower and a pole saw that use the Toro “Jump Start” system. Using a cordless drill is nice on my shoulder, and eventually I plan on adapting it to my saws.
     
  9. Mag Craft

    Mag Craft

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    Are you having difficulties in pulling it over and that is why you are looking for alternative starting, or is the problem with you are having to pull it over way to many times to get it to start. Just curious as to why.
     
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  10. ~smokey~

    ~smokey~

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    I've never heard of the Toro "Jump Start" system I'll have to look into that, I've dropped the Toyota starter idea and am now going to pick up a cordless ½" drill.
     
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  11. ~smokey~

    ~smokey~

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    I have an injury at the moment but still doing everything I usually do, just making that easier so I can carry on, my plan now is to mount the saw in a vice off the rear bumper receiver hitch and start it the usual way, should be much easier, if I have trouble I'll install another starter cover that allows me to use a cordless drill
     
  12. Warner

    Warner

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    If you do decide to go with the car starter hold on to it tight the jump pretty hard when you put the power to them.
     
  13. Earl764

    Earl764

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  14. ~smokey~

    ~smokey~

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    hahaha,,, I think I've heard of those what did they use them on again? need to check Youtube.
     
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  15. ~smokey~

    ~smokey~

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    Thanks to everyone for your input and suggestions, I've changed my mind on using a stationary starter motor and opted to mount the chainsaw in a receiver hitch mounted post vise, as I was pull starting my MS260 in the video due to my injury it hurt like hell ! so my decision to pick up an old used starter cover and modify it to use a cordless drill became even more obvious, the saw has been sitting in the truck for weeks now with cooler temps but still started pretty good.

    ChainsawVise20.JPG

     
  16. Earl764

    Earl764

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    a tractor. Different era.
     
  17. fuelrod

    fuelrod

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    I know that I'm expanding the budget of this idea, but I've heard nothing but praise for some of the battery saws. Sounds like a good excuse while you're in recovery. :thumbs:
    Do you need a 1/2" cordless drill otherwise?
     
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  18. ~smokey~

    ~smokey~

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    Some of those cordless chainsaws are impressive I wouldn't mind having one, but I love my MS260 and really have no problem using the saw, it's just the pull starting that gives me issues, so a cordless brushless ½" drill will take care of that, I still wouldn't mind finding a Minibrute 12 volt one day, those are cool saws.
     
  19. Chaz

    Chaz

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    Old aircraft engines were often started by explosive charges.

    Coffman engine starter - Wikipedia
     
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