I had to replace the fuel intake line on this saw. Used an aftermarket fuel line first and after install could not get saw to start. Finally figured out the fuel line was kinked. It comes up out of the tank from under the carb, curves back around to behind the carb and slides onto orifice on backside of the carb. I ordered a Stihl OEM fuel line and replaced it again and this time saw started right up and ran great. Started it several times then it sat for about 2-3 weeks until I needed it and once again it wouldn't start. Pulled carb and the fuel line is kinked again. Anybody got any ideas how to correct this? Never was a problem until I had to replace the line. I've read other places online where this can be a problem with these saws but can't find a remedy for it.
Sorry, nothing to add. I e had a 290 for many years and it’s been a downright reliable saw albeit heavy for its CC’s. Others more knowledgeable will be along shortly….
When I had an 029 super (older version of the MS290) I replaced the fuel line with an OEM and didn't have this issue afterwards. My first thought is that the OEM might actually be sourced from China these days, and made from inferior rubber. If you could find a new old stock line on eBay it would probably hold up better.
They’ve had quite a few replacement line numbers over the years and if I’m not mistaken they are slightly different lengths above the molded tank grommet. Technically speaking 1127-358-7702,1127-358-7703 and 1127-358-7705 will all fit 029/290,310,039/390,034/036 but will not fit all depending on tank assembly. Some tanks had bigger holes or the location of the hole for the fuel line moved slightly. Even if the grommet hole is the right size if i remember correctly the line portion above the grommet is slightly longer on some than others so you need to be careful on routing and make sure it ends up below air filter and not behind it getting kinked on installing. Who knows where Stihl is molding their lines now could very well be China along side the carbs and oil pumps at zama. It’s not necessarily the country or people making it but the quality control over it. Stihl owns zama and makes their own carbs along with carbs for husky and others.
No answer to your problem. Never had an issue with it on my 290 which I ran for roughly ten years. Very reliable saw. Hopefully someone can point you in the right direction.
I wonder if you could get some galvanized wire and wrap it a buncha times around where it's kinking to create a sort of strain relief...
