Thread: My chainsaw is a . . . . . .

Ahem...

Just returning to the original post for a wee moment and the subject of starting reluctant motors, the "spray start" I have suggested is just a high volatile fuel (ether?) that is more combustible than the conventional fuels.

It can be used on a variety of motors with caution. I'll explain. Simple (single cylinder machines) are normally fine. Older motors are fine.

Be wary with modern motors with computerised systems and diesels with automatic glow plug initiation as the firing sequence can be started out of order.

I often hear the comment that diesel engines can become addicted to the quick start sprays. That is rubbish, although at first glance it appears that way.

In practice the scenario is that the old diesel (such as my ancient tractor) is difficult to start, particularly in cold weather so a spray is applied. This works well. Then after a while the engine won't start in warm weather either so the engine has become "addicted."

Actually what happened was the engine was worn and compression low so the heat built up during compression was insufficient to ignite the fuel mix particularly when cold. Over time the engine continues to wear and the compression capability decreases further until the spray is required at all times from a cold start, even in hot weather. Hence the apparent "addiction."

My contention is that spray start actually increases the life of the engine . But do not use the glow plugs in conjunction with the spray as per my earlier comment or the engine will light up out of it's normal firing sequence .

As I said in the earlier post, it works well on chainsaws, being a simple engine.

Regards
Paul

Speaking of engine starter spray....some time back I was in my favourite bearing and bolt supplier and there on the customer side of the counter was a PALLET of the stuff. The manager came to serve me so I asked him if the pallet was a reflexion on the capabilities of the mechanics in the district. He assured me it was just the company's usual winter order.

I have the same starting prob with my hedge trimmer a homlite to day in desperation I gave it a spray of detol antiseptic spray as that is hydrocarbon pressured and it worked a treat it maybe no the right stuff but us Kiwis are inventive

Might have to get this magic spray. Swearing doesn't work

So where do I source this elixir of start?

Any good automotive shop will have a can of 'Start ya Bastard' also sold as Aerostart.

Pat its just a quick squirt not a prolonged spray like your trying to kill a fly.

Can use it to inflate tyres

Originally Posted by Pat

Having a look at the "Offcut", decided that half a toothpick was too hard . . .

Nice steady, did you have it made Pat

Originally Posted by wheelinround

Can use it to inflate tyres

I don't think the manufacturers really intended it be used for tyres, but an interesting video. OH&S blokes might have a bit to say, but I like the concept
Thanks for posting.

Alan...