Usually you can order a oem gasket and diaphragm kit and keep your oem carburetor ( its usually a high quality carburetor). Old gas or a much used saw eventually wears the pump and deteriorates the diaphragm. A good cleaning and fresh diaphragm almkstxalways fixes them up. Cheers from West Virginia
Good advice, thanks. I have the tools and an ultrasonic cleaner at home and a rebuild of the OEM would be best, but I’m visiting far from home and the cheap carb swap was one of a few options. Great advice though. Thanks
The knockoff cheapy carburetor is unworthy of your saw. A gasket kit would have been a better solution, but then again, maybe revisiting a project is your bag?
I opened up the muffler on mine and it's the easiest starting saw I own. 2 pulls on choke and 1st pull on high idle. These saws are as good as it gets for a mid 40's CC .
The design of the starter (small pulley) makes almost all the ms250s seem like they have high compression. If they re-designed the starter it would be a lot more user friendly.
I bought mine off an old man on marketplace. He had such a hard time starting that little saw that he constructed a jig to hold it down while he tried to start it lol!
I just finished fixing a ms250C. It has an "easy start" option on it. It's like a big spring that stores energy and releases it with less strength required to pull it. It's a pain in the butt though.
I replaced carb on my Stihl, cut one load of firewood, reverted to back where I started. Bought a Greenworks electric chainsaw, no more starting problems.
Thanks, Joseph. These aftermarket carbs are very good for the most part. Good luck with the swap on yours. (PS: make the cameraman handle all the dirty parts so you can keep your hands clean) LOL
I had the oil mixed a bit on the heavy side but the cardb change was a success. I was so surprised how well it ran right out of the box with zero adjustments. Thanks , as always and have yourself a great weekend!
well done, always nice to see these break down videos and yours was well done. I was thinking the MS 170 but now I think for the power and build difference I'll spend more and go with the MS 250
A buddy of mine has an old 250 that the last time I was talking with him was having issues , I will send him this video, and he'll probably give me the saw to look at so I'll pay attention now lol
Old gas gums up carburettor and sometimes, it's easier to just put in a cheap, aftermarket one. This one from Amazon was less than $30 and fixed the saw like new! I hope your buddy will pay you for your time. Fresh-caught baloney roasts are the currency we use LOL
How's she goin'? Nice going. It started right up and sounds good and no squirrels were harmed in the making of this video!! Well that part sucks, but other than that, I'd say this was a successful procedure!! Take care!!!
Your MS250 may need one of the carbs someday. I still remember your FREE file story when you bought your MS250! So funny that he charged you for the file LOL (That's probably because he heard you don't like squirrels).
Hi. I have a MS-250 and a 4 cycle trimmer. Both have had the problem of starting but would not rev up. Problem was on both of them was that a small speck of sawdust had got into the carb through the little hole on the cover plate and stopped the diaphragm from moving. Blew it out and engines ran great. This problem has happened to me about 4 times. Need to find a way to stop dirt from getting in there. Lee
Usually there is wear on the accelerator pump of the carburetor, this is a common problem on the Stil 250, you can simply turn it off, but I replaced the carburetor with a new one hello from Siberia
Thank you for this information. I kept the old carburetor that I may someday rebuild ( having the original is often better) but changing it out for a new, aftermarket one was inexpensive and quick. Thanks again for your comment. Hello from Canada !
I would definitely not be trying to start any chainsaw between my legs the way you did. It’s funny to watch people start saws. I start all of mine with the drop method.
@@EverydayProjects Use the spark plug hole as compression release. Pull plug, pull the cord 10 or so times and the compression is gone for awhile. Not a mechanic so I don't know why these 250's have this issue. Obvious why it works. I did a muff mod 12 years ago. Bad gas mileage but a different chain saw. It's not embarrassed to hang with my 362. Sounds better too...
I replaced my carb, fuel line and filter, spark plug, and air filter assembly. Probably same kit you have. Carb works fine. Hose was easier to replace than my Craftsman. Still need to do a little adjusting for it to run perfect. At least it starts now.
@@robertlehrman5832 Glad to hear you got it going. Sometimes, the carb kits come with an adjustment tool that fits the mixture screws. The low speed jet keeps the saw running at idle and works along with the throttle adjustment screw. Adjust a warm saw while running until it idles smooth. The high speed jet manages the fuel at full throttle. Adjust it while holding the throttle open until it does not bog down and runs at full throttle without bogging. Sometimes better and safer to remove the chain first. Good luck😀
The only problem I found in the replacement one is the distance between the mixture screws, but cutting off the rubber piece that allows access to the screw heads was all it took to make it fit. Some have suggested just cleaning and placing new gaskets in the original carburetor, so don't get rid of it. Maybe you can put a kit in it as a spare. Best of luck and thanks very much for watching. PS- WOW I had the gas mixed way too rich...probably 10-1 hahaha Take Care
Happened to me. I suspected the diaphragm and maybe the needles in the carb were dry or gummed. I sprayed throttle body cleaner. Let in sit couple days. She runs and starts fine now.
Very informative and you still have all your fingers 😅 I rather mix it rich as well and have to change a smoked plug than have a saw overheating or have a scored cylinder or piston.
The low mixture screw should be adjusted so that the saw idles correctly. The high mixture screw should be adjusted with the saw throttled up then turn the screw until the saw has the smoothest rpm and runs without bogging down.
Hi, I think that the correct version of carburator for your chainsaw is the ZM-MS250-C and it seems that the version that you bought is only MS-250 version.
My MS250 isn't the "C" (comfort) model, but you could be correct on the carburetor. I had to cut the rubber plug at the mixture screws to make the aftermarket one fit and maybe the other carburetor would fit better. I didn't buy a STIHL carburetor, just a knock-off replacement. Thanks for your input! Best Wishes!
Mine will fire up at half choke. They flood easy. I didn't bother changing the carb, I just flooded it with brake clean and let it sit for the day. Im running high test fuel to avoid the ethanol because the 250 sits for months on end.
Good tip on running the premium fuel. This one sits a lot too. I only use it when I visit back East once a year. I actually mailed it to myself from BC. It cost just under $30 to mail it and have a saw there instead of borrowing (not a habit I like) or renting a saw when I need one. Thanks Kenny....be good!
It is better to use original spare parts. Chinese fakes are usually of low quality, but in your case the carburetor works fine, which is good. I would also advise checking the maximum revolutions on the tachometer; they should not exceed 14,000 revolutions.
The MS250 is known for hard starting. They came out with a second version that has a different rewind/rope start mechanism that makes it easier to pull (MS250C). I don't think the new rewind fits the older models. It's a grin and bear it thing. Nothing wrong with your saw. They are all like that.
That is the way those saws are. I cautioned buyers before I sold them one, no women, old men, bad shoulders. That being said I am 70 years old and it is my go to saw, love it. I always sit the saw on the ground, put foot in rear handle, lock left arm and pull. Saw does not get jerked out of your hands that way.
@@EverydayProjectsyea the easy starts work good but you have to use the correct starting procedure. Slow easy pull, give that saw to someone that doesn’t understand they will jerk the rope out of it in no time.
I’ve had my ms250 for 5 years and I’m honestly not happy with it. I got it because of the size, not too big and not too heavy. But I’ve always struggled to get mine started. Yes! I I put it on the 1st choke setting til burps and yadayadayada and I’m wore out by the time I get it fired up. This is one of the few things I’m ready to give up the fossil fuel for their expensive electric ones. The thought of just clicking in the battery and go cut is too tempting.
I've heard other say that too. The MS250 can be difficult to start, however other than the carburetor issues on this one, I find mine has started well and has been reliable. I've had this saw for about 10 years. Maybe the newer ones are manufactured in a different way? I know that some newer Stihl saws (designed for fuel efficiency) like the MS291, are hard to start when hot, and it's not because of faulty coils or ignition components. It's the ported design of the cylinder. I happen to own an MS291 and it gets little use because of this issue. The MS250 was always a good, small saw but maybe they've lost something along the way. Cutting costs at the factory ? Design changes?
The MS250 I bought in 2007, and the second one I bought in 2023 both start reliably - third pull on full choke fires, 2nd or 3rd pull on half choke it starts.
@@donmoore7785 It seems like some of the MS250s are prone to hard-starting problems. This one works well now that the carburetor has been updated. It sits for months at a time without use and even with fuel stabilizer and running it dry before storage, it can still gum up. I think the starting issue most have is to due with high compression. I know that they made a modified (easy start) model, perhaps because of this. It seems strange that such a small saw would have compression issues that make it difficult to start. Also, the design of the starter, with its small diameter has played a role. Looks like you got a good one.
It's well known that the MS250 can be difficult to start. Partially because of compression but more because of the design of the rewind-starter. Later models came with a different starter mechanism, making them easier to start. Thanks for your comment and for watching.
These are great little saws and so handy for small to medium-sized work. The problem is that the carburetors get gummed up eventually and make them run poorly. A simple carb swap for under $30 made this saw run like new. I always use storage spray in the cylinder and condition the fuel, run it dry and store without gas, but they eventually gum up anyway. So nice to have it working while I wait by my mailbox for my surprise you brought me back from your trip!
I'm a VERY patient man, and you are a VERY KIND man, so I don't think I'll be waiting long (plus it's nice to hang out down by the mailbox--no flies this time of year)@@DIYVariety
Usually, the screws are 1 1/4 out from the closed position, then adjust the low mixture screw until the saw idles smoothly (either in or out a little bit). With the saw held safely, rev the saw and adjust the high mixture screw until the engine runs well and doesn't bog down. Leave the mixture screws in those positions and you should be set!
Mine does the same thing... unless I do one thing, guys won't do. Once it starts and runs as yours did let it run, let it warm up, gawd your asking an used engine to just fire up at full bore...set it down and give it time to warm up.
Thank you@@EverydayProjects I just bought a used one and the decals are identical to yours. Figured this might be a good indication of production date. Too bad this one needs a top end, I'll be rebuilding it this spring.
Yes, thanks. It was a quick fix and I am aware that a simple cleaning may have remedied the problem. Usually, it's old gas that is left in the saw that leads to this problem. Thank you for your comment. I appreciate input just like this!
I've never had to change one of those boots and I have several Stihl saws, some many years old. They can deteriorate but I've not had to change one yet. Good that they included one with the Carb kit. Thanks for commenting.
Usually you can order a oem gasket and diaphragm kit and keep your oem carburetor ( its usually a high quality carburetor). Old gas or a much used saw eventually wears the pump and deteriorates the diaphragm. A good cleaning and fresh diaphragm almkstxalways fixes them up. Cheers from West Virginia
Good advice, thanks. I have the tools and an ultrasonic cleaner at home and a rebuild of the OEM would be best, but I’m visiting far from home and the cheap carb swap was one of a few options. Great advice though. Thanks
The knockoff cheapy carburetor is unworthy of your saw. A gasket kit would have been a better solution, but then again, maybe revisiting a project is your bag?
I've had one for 21 yrs. Runs like a champ.
They're a great little saw. Light and versatile. Not much ever goes wrong with them. Thanks for watching!
I opened up the muffler on mine and it's the easiest starting saw I own.
2 pulls on choke and 1st pull on high idle.
These saws are as good as it gets for a mid 40's CC .
Yes, good tip. Mufflers become clogged and create back pressure. I really like this saw despite a few performance issues.
The design of the starter (small pulley) makes almost all the ms250s seem like they have high compression. If they re-designed the starter it would be a lot more user friendly.
You're right. That's a great idea!
I bought mine off an old man on marketplace. He had such a hard time starting that little saw that he constructed a jig to hold it down while he tried to start it lol!
th-cam.com/users/shorts6g3gGpVOcG4?si=COY0n4qmy-sEb2fE
I just finished fixing a ms250C. It has an "easy start" option on it. It's like a big spring that stores energy and releases it with less strength required to pull it. It's a pain in the butt though.
I replaced carb on my Stihl, cut one load of firewood, reverted to back where I started. Bought a Greenworks electric chainsaw, no more starting problems.
HaHa Yes, electric chainsaws will someday take over. They are easier to start and have less smoke.
Perfect timing, we need to go through our MS250 and I suspect it needs a new carb. Great job on the saw
Thanks, Joseph. These aftermarket carbs are very good for the most part. Good luck with the swap on yours. (PS: make the cameraman handle all the dirty parts so you can keep your hands clean) LOL
Really good video. Them copy carbs are ok i have fitted a few on strimmers / chainsaws and touch wood all been good, them MS250 are a 50:1 mix, 👍👍
I had the oil mixed a bit on the heavy side but the cardb change was a success. I was so surprised how well it ran right out of the box with zero adjustments. Thanks , as always and have yourself a great weekend!
@@EverydayProjectsyou didn't have the oil mixed on heavy side you'd done the opposite, Stihl also recommends 50:1 not 100:1 as you were saying
Awesome, thanks for sharing
Thanks, Dave!
well done, always nice to see these break down videos and yours was well done. I was thinking the MS 170 but now I think for the power and build difference I'll spend more and go with the MS 250
That's a good choice! Best wishes! Thank you for commenting!
Wow that Chainsaw is a beast
@@dnrsmallenginerepair I know 😀😂Did you see it cut those one inch branches?
@@EverydayProjects yah
That sure turned it around! Sounds like new!
That's waht it needed for sure. Check your email, I sent you a note. Take care
A buddy of mine has an old 250 that the last time I was talking with him was having issues , I will send him this video, and he'll probably give me the saw to look at so I'll pay attention now lol
Old gas gums up carburettor and sometimes, it's easier to just put in a cheap, aftermarket one. This one from Amazon was less than $30 and fixed the saw like new! I hope your buddy will pay you for your time. Fresh-caught baloney roasts are the currency we use LOL
@@EverydayProjects lol
How's she goin'? Nice going. It started right up and sounds good and no squirrels were harmed in the making of this video!! Well that part sucks, but other than that, I'd say this was a successful procedure!! Take care!!!
Your MS250 may need one of the carbs someday. I still remember your FREE file story when you bought your MS250! So funny that he charged you for the file LOL (That's probably because he heard you don't like squirrels).
If that guy knew I didn't like squirrels he would have given me the saw but probably still charged me for the file!! LOL@@EverydayProjects
Hi. I have a MS-250 and a 4 cycle trimmer. Both have had the problem of starting but would not rev up. Problem was on both of them was that a small speck of sawdust had got into the carb through the little hole on the cover plate and stopped the diaphragm from moving. Blew it out and engines ran great. This problem has happened to me about 4 times. Need to find a way to stop dirt from getting in there. Lee
Thanks! Very good tip and I'll keep a watch on this to make sure there is no dirt getting in. Best wishes and Season's Greetings!
Usually there is wear on the accelerator pump of the carburetor, this is a common problem on the Stil 250, you can simply turn it off, but I replaced the carburetor with a new one hello from Siberia
Thank you for this information. I kept the old carburetor that I may someday rebuild ( having the original is often better) but changing it out for a new, aftermarket one was inexpensive and quick. Thanks again for your comment. Hello from Canada !
I would definitely not be trying to start any chainsaw between my legs the way you did. It’s funny to watch people start saws. I start all of mine with the drop method.
@@ishampeace4134 The drop method is the most dangerous. You have no control of the saw at all. Starting the saw, as I do, is safe, and recommended.
Most of us 80 year olds start them on the ground..
@@joew9392 I'm getting there! Very soon, I'll be starting my saws on the ground too!
Awesome 👍 Lots of compression that's for sure. I mix it 50:1 , whats your mix about 25:1 😉
I think the mix was 1:1 LOL it smoked a lot but I did have some storage spray in the cylinder. Thanks, Steve!
@@EverydayProjects Use the spark plug hole as compression release. Pull plug, pull the cord 10 or so times and the compression is gone for awhile. Not a mechanic so I don't know why these 250's have this issue. Obvious why it works.
I did a muff mod 12 years ago. Bad gas mileage but a different chain saw. It's not embarrassed to hang with my 362. Sounds better too...
I replaced my carb, fuel line and filter, spark plug, and air filter assembly. Probably same kit you have. Carb works fine. Hose was easier to replace than my Craftsman. Still need to do a little adjusting for it to run perfect. At least it starts now.
@@robertlehrman5832 Glad to hear you got it going. Sometimes, the carb kits come with an adjustment tool that fits the mixture screws. The low speed jet keeps the saw running at idle and works along with the throttle adjustment screw. Adjust a warm saw while running until it idles smooth. The high speed jet manages the fuel at full throttle. Adjust it while holding the throttle open until it does not bog down and runs at full throttle without bogging. Sometimes better and safer to remove the chain first. Good luck😀
Nice work - thanks for sharing. Im waiting for the same replacement kit and hoping i have as much success as you did.
The only problem I found in the replacement one is the distance between the mixture screws, but cutting off the rubber piece that allows access to the screw heads was all it took to make it fit. Some have suggested just cleaning and placing new gaskets in the original carburetor, so don't get rid of it. Maybe you can put a kit in it as a spare. Best of luck and thanks very much for watching. PS- WOW I had the gas mixed way too rich...probably 10-1 hahaha Take Care
Happened to me. I suspected the diaphragm and maybe the needles in the carb were dry or gummed. I sprayed throttle body cleaner. Let in sit couple days. She runs and starts fine now.
I bought a STIHL diaphram and will rebuild the original carburetor with it. For now, however, the replacement carburetor is working well.
60 to onr fuel mixture is very lean , recomend 40 ton one , i v'e had a tree business fo over 50 years, your saw neds more oil
Very informative and you still have all your fingers 😅
I rather mix it rich as well and have to change a smoked plug than have a saw overheating or have a scored cylinder or piston.
Agreed. I'd rather have a saw smoke a bit than to prematurely wear the piston/bore.
First time watching your channel that Calibrate, I need a little adjustment.I use them all while and I always have to make the necessary adjustment
The low mixture screw should be adjusted so that the saw idles correctly. The high mixture screw should be adjusted with the saw throttled up then turn the screw until the saw has the smoothest rpm and runs without bogging down.
I have had good luck with carbs ok right out of the box. But I mix is a little........😆
See ya Craig✌
A bit too much oil this time...Always room for improvements, right! Thanks, Marc!
@@EverydayProjectsnot enough mate should be 50:1
Hi, I think that the correct version of carburator for your chainsaw is the ZM-MS250-C and it seems that the version that you bought is only MS-250 version.
My MS250 isn't the "C" (comfort) model, but you could be correct on the carburetor. I had to cut the rubber plug at the mixture screws to make the aftermarket one fit and maybe the other carburetor would fit better. I didn't buy a STIHL carburetor, just a knock-off replacement. Thanks for your input! Best Wishes!
Mine will fire up at half choke. They flood easy. I didn't bother changing the carb, I just flooded it with brake clean and let it sit for the day. Im running high test fuel to avoid the ethanol because the 250 sits for months on end.
Good tip on running the premium fuel. This one sits a lot too. I only use it when I visit back East once a year. I actually mailed it to myself from BC. It cost just under $30 to mail it and have a saw there instead of borrowing (not a habit I like) or renting a saw when I need one. Thanks Kenny....be good!
It is better to use original spare parts. Chinese fakes are usually of low quality, but in your case the carburetor works fine, which is good. I would also advise checking the maximum revolutions on the tachometer; they should not exceed 14,000 revolutions.
Thank you
I have the same saw. Since it was new it is hard to pull and start. Wrong adjustments? Does it have too much compression? Any ideas?
The MS250 is known for hard starting. They came out with a second version that has a different rewind/rope start mechanism that makes it easier to pull (MS250C). I don't think the new rewind fits the older models. It's a grin and bear it thing. Nothing wrong with your saw. They are all like that.
That is the way those saws are. I cautioned buyers before I sold them one, no women, old men, bad shoulders. That being said I am 70 years old and it is my go to saw, love it. I always sit the saw on the ground, put foot in rear handle, lock left arm and pull. Saw does not get jerked out of your hands that way.
@@EverydayProjectsyea the easy starts work good but you have to use the correct starting procedure. Slow easy pull, give that saw to someone that doesn’t understand they will jerk the rope out of it in no time.
I’ve had my ms250 for 5 years and I’m honestly not happy with it. I got it because of the size, not too big and not too heavy. But I’ve always struggled to get mine started. Yes! I I put it on the 1st choke setting til burps and yadayadayada and I’m wore out by the time I get it fired up. This is one of the few things I’m ready to give up the fossil fuel for their expensive electric ones. The thought of just clicking in the battery and go cut is too tempting.
I've heard other say that too. The MS250 can be difficult to start, however other than the carburetor issues on this one, I find mine has started well and has been reliable. I've had this saw for about 10 years. Maybe the newer ones are manufactured in a different way? I know that some newer Stihl saws (designed for fuel efficiency) like the MS291, are hard to start when hot, and it's not because of faulty coils or ignition components. It's the ported design of the cylinder. I happen to own an MS291 and it gets little use because of this issue. The MS250 was always a good, small saw but maybe they've lost something along the way. Cutting costs at the factory ? Design changes?
Yes I've seen this a bunch
The MS250 I bought in 2007, and the second one I bought in 2023 both start reliably - third pull on full choke fires, 2nd or 3rd pull on half choke it starts.
@@donmoore7785 It seems like some of the MS250s are prone to hard-starting problems. This one works well now that the carburetor has been updated. It sits for months at a time without use and even with fuel stabilizer and running it dry before storage, it can still gum up. I think the starting issue most have is to due with high compression. I know that they made a modified (easy start) model, perhaps because of this. It seems strange that such a small saw would have compression issues that make it difficult to start. Also, the design of the starter, with its small diameter has played a role. Looks like you got a good one.
Did u ever think maybe they have compression, how else does the 250 make that much power, I have one
It's well known that the MS250 can be difficult to start. Partially because of compression but more because of the design of the rewind-starter. Later models came with a different starter mechanism, making them easier to start. Thanks for your comment and for watching.
Ms 250 is only a weed eater lol but you got her going buddy,
These are great little saws and so handy for small to medium-sized work. The problem is that the carburetors get gummed up eventually and make them run poorly. A simple carb swap for under $30 made this saw run like new. I always use storage spray in the cylinder and condition the fuel, run it dry and store without gas, but they eventually gum up anyway. So nice to have it working while I wait by my mailbox for my surprise you brought me back from your trip!
@@EverydayProjects lol dont hold ya breath to long lol
I'm a VERY patient man, and you are a VERY KIND man, so I don't think I'll be waiting long (plus it's nice to hang out down by the mailbox--no flies this time of year)@@DIYVariety
How many turns does that carburetor have in the L and H screws?
Usually, the screws are 1 1/4 out from the closed position, then adjust the low mixture screw until the saw idles smoothly (either in or out a little bit). With the saw held safely, rev the saw and adjust the high mixture screw until the engine runs well and doesn't bog down. Leave the mixture screws in those positions and you should be set!
Hello
Mine does the same thing... unless I do one thing, guys won't do. Once it starts and runs as yours did let it run, let it warm up, gawd your asking an used engine to just fire up at full bore...set it down and give it time to warm up.
Yes, good advice. Thank you
What year was this saw manufactured? Thanks for the video EP!
The MS 250 is still in production. This one is about 8 years old.
Thank you@@EverydayProjects I just bought a used one and the decals are identical to yours. Figured this might be a good indication of production date. Too bad this one needs a top end, I'll be rebuilding it this spring.
@@1quickdub let us know on here how the rebuild goes. All the best.. Craig. Everyday Projects
You dont have to buy new carb. The carb only need to be cleaned. It happen to mine.
Yes, thanks. It was a quick fix and I am aware that a simple cleaning may have remedied the problem. Usually, it's old gas that is left in the saw that leads to this problem. Thank you for your comment. I appreciate input just like this!
Use ethanol free gas if you can
Good advice.
do you have the link to the carb you got for your MS250 chainsaw ?
Yes. Got it on Amazon.com
Carbhub Carburetor for Stihl 021 023 025 MS210 MS230 MS250 Chainsaw Carb with 1123 160 1650 Air Filter Ignition Coil Fuel Line Tune Up Kit Replace Walbro WT286
Manufacturer Carbour
UPC 715020622933
@@EverydayProjects Thank You :)
50:1
What's the part number
@@shawnlawrence4840 bought it on Amazon. Just search for MS250 carb and there are many, some come with air filter and coil too.
Gap is supposed to be 0.26mm
😊 thanks
12345 and 12345 im good...so funny...
It is always important to count fingers after using a knife. ha Ha Thanks for your comment!
That flexible rubber piece that goes between the cylinder and carb is the intake boot.
I've never had to change one of those boots and I have several Stihl saws, some many years old. They can deteriorate but I've not had to change one yet. Good that they included one with the Carb kit. Thanks for commenting.
One thing I learned from my MS250......buy Echo chainsaws......
HaHaHaHa Maybe you're right!
If you like ECHO saws and equipment you;;l like this: th-cam.com/video/JE4uq2JVU_4/w-d-xo.html