Few things are scarier than an electric chainsaw’s safety features failing to activate in an emergency. The kill switch allows you to cut the power immediately, keeping you safe in what could otherwise be a dangerous situation. So, why would a Husqvarna chainsaw’s kill switch not work?
A Husqvarna chainsaw’s kill switch doesn’t work because of dirt build-up, disconnected wires, or damaged parts. Solutions involve cleaning the chainsaw, reconnecting loose wires, and replacing faulty components.
If your Husqvarna chainsaw’s kill switch isn’t working, it’s best not to use it until you’ve fixed the problem. Read further to find out more the causes for the kill switch not activating, and what you can do about it.
1. Dirt Build-Up
It’s normal for your chainsaw to accumulate dirt and debris. Normal use, poor storage conditions, or the chain pulling in debris can lead to build-up. This might seem like a minor nuisance at first, but it doesn’t take much for dirt and debris to interfere with the inner workings of any machine, including a power tool.
When left unaddressed, dirt can prevent the kill switch from fully activating (source). You may be able to move the switch itself, but dirt can still stop the necessary contact from being made. It’s very easy to miss this problem because the build-up doesn’t have to be visible; a small obstruction in the right area can render the switch useless.
How To Fix
Thankfully, this problem is quickly addressed with some simple cleaning. You can gain access to the inner parts (including the kill switch) by removing the outer casing. You only need to remove the section over the switch for this fix.
If you’re unsure where the kill switch is located, consult your chainsaw’s user manual.
Once the interior is exposed, use an antibacterial wipe to remove built-up dirt from the area surrounding the kill switch, being sure to clean the contacts, too. You could also use compressed air to remove light dirt and dust.
To prevent this issue from reoccuring, clean the inside of your chainsaw every few months.
2. Disconnected Wires
The kill switch works by creating a circuit to prevent ignition. When switched off, the circuit is forced to close, cutting power to the chainsaw entirely (source). It’s easy enough to picture, but in practice, it requires a set of correctly-functioning wires to work.
While vibrations and impact won’t move the switch’s position, that doesn’t mean the internal parts won’t be jostled. Wires can become disconnected if your chainsaw suffers a strong or repeated impact. Dropping your chainsaw or slamming it down on a table or floor can lead to disconnected wires.
How To Fix
Reconnecting a wire or two may not seem like complex work, but keep in mind that electric parts are delicate. If you want to reconnect wires yourself, be sure to follow the instructions that came with your saw or replacement parts. If you aren’t fully confident and don’t want to risk it, take your chainsaw to a professional.
It can be tempting to replace the wire components at the first sign of trouble. However, it’s worth noting that it isn’t always the easiest solution, nor is it the cheapest. Getting a professional assessment will reveal which option is the best for your situation.
Alternatively, consult your chainsaw’s user manual for more information or watch an online tutorial. Below is a helpful YouTube video explaining how to reconnect the wires to a Husqvarna chainsaw:
3. Damaged Components
Traditionally, there are three parts to a chainsaw’s kill switch:
- The lever
- Wires
- The kill switch itself
Since there are not many moving parts to this setup, there isn’t quite as much that can go wrong compared to more complicated aspects of the tool. However, should any of them suffer heavy enough damage, the kill switch mechanism can fail entirely.
All three components can suffer damage when outside debris finds its way into the saw. Additionally, the lever can break over time due to extended use. Finally, water damage can deteriorate all three components.
The last point is important because it can be difficult to prevent. Prolonged exposure to moisture in the environment, from damp air to rain, can build up slowly over time before causing noticeable damage. Exposure like this is most common in extreme temperatures or if you live in a humid climate.
How To Fix
If any of your components are damaged, there isn’t much you can do to repair them. Instead, you’ll need to replace them entirely. You can purchase parts individually or find kits that include each required part.
Before buying the parts, make sure that they are designed to work with your Husqvarna chainsaw model. To play it safe, buy the parts from Husqvarna’s online store. Alternatively, find a physical or online store near you that sells Husqvarna parts.
Waiting to replace damaged components until they stop working entirely can be dangerous, however. If you perform regular maintenance checks, you’ll notice the damage developing before it becomes a serious issue. Acting fast to address the problem could prevent a serious accident.
4. The Switch Still Fails to Activate
If you’ve cleaned the kill switch area inside your Husqvarna chainsaw, and checked for damaged parts and loose wires, but the kill switch still isn’t working, it could mean that there’s an issue with the spark plug (source).
How To Fix
Unlike the kill switch, there’s no easy fix for a spark plug that fails to activate. Instead, you’ll need to replace the plug to get things back in order. That’s why it’s a good idea to pick up a spare spark plug if you’re already buying replacement parts for the kill switch.
I’ve also written a comprehensive guide on Husqvarna chainsaw choke that won’t stay up where I discussed the possible reasons for the issue.
Conclusion
When accidents strike and you have only seconds separating you from disaster, your Husqvarna chainsaw’s kill switch can be a literal lifesaver. Many problems that prevent it from working can be caught with simple routine maintenance if you know what you’re looking for. But don’t be afraid to talk to a professional for a helping hand when in doubt.