Stihl Chainsaw 20 In Bar Kill Switch Not Working: [Reasons + Fixed]

Stihl Chainsaw 20 in. Bar Kill Switch Not Working

As a chainsaw owner, you know how important the kill switch is. It’s the safety feature that prevents the saw from accidentally starting up while you’re working on it or transporting it. So when the kill switch doesn’t work, it can be a major inconvenience.

In this guide, I’ll walk you through the steps to troubleshoot a Stihl chainsaw 20 in. bar kill switch that’s not working. I’ll cover everything from simple checks to more complex repairs, so you can get your saw back up and running in no time.

By the end of this guide, you’ll be able to:

Identify the cause of the problem
Perform the necessary repairs
Restore functionality to your chainsaw’s kill switch

So if you’re experiencing trouble with your Stihl chainsaw’s kill switch, read on for the help you need.

Most Common Reasons Of Stihl Chainsaw 20 In Bar Kill Switch Not Working

Most Common Reasons Of Stihl Chainsaw 20 In Bar Kill Switch Not Working

Damaged or faulty kill switch: The kill switch is a critical safety feature that prevents the chainsaw from starting when it is not in use. If the kill switch is damaged or faulty, it will not be able to stop the chainsaw from running, which could result in serious injury.
Dirty or corroded kill switch: The kill switch is located in a high-traffic area on the chainsaw, and it is susceptible to dirt and corrosion. If the kill switch is dirty or corroded, it may not be able to function properly.
Incorrectly adjusted kill switch: The kill switch must be properly adjusted in order to function properly. If the kill switch is not adjusted correctly, it may not be able to stop the chainsaw from running.
Loose or damaged wiring: The kill switch is connected to the chainsaw’s engine by a wire. If the wire is loose or damaged, it may not be able to send the signal to the engine to stop running.
Faulty engine: If the engine is faulty, it may not be able to stop running when the kill switch is activated. This could be due to a problem with the engine’s ignition system, fuel system, or other components.

How to Troubleshoot: Stihl Chainsaw 20 in. Bar Kill Switch Not Working

Symptoms

The chainsaw will not start when the kill switch is engaged.
The chainsaw will start and run when the kill switch is disengaged, but will not stop when the switch is engaged.
The chainsaw will start and run, but will not idle when the kill switch is engaged.

Causes

The kill switch is not making contact with the chainsaw’s engine.
The kill switch is stuck in the engaged position.
The kill switch’s wiring is damaged.
The chainsaw’s engine is not getting enough fuel.
The chainsaw’s engine is not getting enough air.
The chainsaw’s engine is overheating.

Solutions

1. Check the kill switch for contact. Disconnect the spark plug wire from the spark plug. Turn the chainsaw on and attempt to start it. If the chainsaw starts and runs, the kill switch is not making contact with the engine.
2. Check the kill switch for a stuck switch. Use a small screwdriver to pry the kill switch open. If the switch does not open, it is stuck in the engaged position.
3. Check the kill switch’s wiring. Disconnect the kill switch from the engine. Use a multimeter to check for continuity between the kill switch and the engine. If there is no continuity, the wiring is damaged.
4. Check the chainsaw’s fuel supply. Make sure that the chainsaw has fuel in the tank. If the chainsaw does not have fuel, fill the tank and try starting it again.
5. Check the chainsaw’s air filter. Remove the air filter and clean it. If the air filter is dirty, clean it and try starting the chainsaw again.
6. Check the chainsaw’s engine for overheating. Allow the chainsaw to cool down. If the chainsaw is still overheating, there may be a problem with the engine.

Prevention

Keep the kill switch clean and free of debris.
Avoid dropping the chainsaw.
Inspect the kill switch regularly for damage.
Keep the chainsaw’s fuel tank full.
Clean the chainsaw’s air filter regularly.
Inspect the chainsaw’s engine regularly for signs of overheating.

Also Check: Stihl Chainsaw Auto Oiler Not Working

FAQs: Stihl Chainsaw 20 in. Bar Kill Switch Not Working

Why is my Stihl chainsaw 20 in. bar kill switch not working?

There are a few possible reasons why your Stihl chainsaw 20 in. bar kill switch might not be working. Here are some of the most common causes:

The kill switch is dirty or damaged. If the kill switch is dirty, it can prevent the chainsaw from starting. If the kill switch is damaged, it may not be able to engage properly.
The chainsaw is not getting enough fuel. If the chainsaw is not getting enough fuel, it will not be able to start. Make sure that the fuel tank is full and that the fuel line is clear.
The spark plug is fouled. A fouled spark plug can prevent the chainsaw from starting. Clean the spark plug and check the gap.
The air filter is dirty. A dirty air filter can restrict the flow of air to the engine, which can cause the chainsaw to stall. Clean the air filter according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
The carburetor is out of adjustment. If the carburetor is out of adjustment, it can cause the chainsaw to run poorly or not start at all. Have the carburetor adjusted by a qualified technician.

How do I fix my Stihl chainsaw 20 in. bar kill switch?

To fix your Stihl chainsaw 20 in. bar kill switch, you will need to identify the cause of the problem. Once you have identified the cause, you can follow the steps below to fix the problem.

If the kill switch is dirty or damaged, clean or replace it. To clean the kill switch, use a soft cloth to wipe away any dirt or debris. If the kill switch is damaged, you will need to replace it.
If the chainsaw is not getting enough fuel, make sure that the fuel tank is full and that the fuel line is clear. To check the fuel tank, remove the fuel cap and make sure that the tank is full. To check the fuel line, disconnect the fuel line from the carburetor and blow through it. If the fuel line is blocked, you will need to replace it.
If the spark plug is fouled, clean it and check the gap. To clean the spark plug, remove it from the chainsaw and use a spark plug cleaner to clean the electrodes. Check the spark plug gap with a spark plug gap gauge. If the gap is incorrect, adjust it according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
If the air filter is dirty, clean it. To clean the air filter, remove it from the chainsaw and rinse it with warm water. Dry the air filter thoroughly and reinstall it.
If the carburetor is out of adjustment, have it adjusted by a qualified technician. A qualified technician will be able to adjust the carburetor so that it is properly tuned.

What should I do if my Stihl chainsaw 20 in. bar kill switch is still not working after I have tried to fix it?

If your Stihl chainsaw 20 in. bar kill switch is still not working after you have tried to fix it, you should contact a qualified technician. A qualified technician will be able to diagnose the problem and fix it properly.

How can I prevent my Stihl chainsaw 20 in. bar kill switch from malfunctioning?

There are a few things you can do to prevent your Stihl chainsaw 20 in. bar kill switch from malfunctioning. Here are some tips:

Keep the kill switch clean and free of debris.
Make sure that the chainsaw is getting enough fuel.
Clean the spark plug regularly and check the gap.
Clean the air filter regularly.
Have the carburetor adjusted regularly.

By following these tips, you can help to prevent your Stihl chainsaw 20 in. bar kill switch from malfunctioning.