Ok, I now have the time to tear into this. Have I the patience though??!!
The boot looks ok....BUT, I say that when it's still attached to the saw (carb removed). The boot is held to the cylinder via some goofy looking metal clamp that appears to require a special tool to remove. How do I remove the clamp so I can get the boot fully out to thoroughly inspect? I fumbled around with needle nosed pliers but stopped in fear of screwing up the clamp.
ALSO, I took the tank vent out and inspected. It appeared clean to me.
I drained the gas tank and inspected the filter and inside of the tank. It all looks new.
I've looked at the hoses......and I see nothing that is obviously wrong, like splits/cracks.
I don't know how to check the crank seals. Again though, this saw has cut no more than 4 cords of wood. Perhaps as few as three.
I may order and install a carb kit as some here recommend. However, I though I'd check these other things out beforehand and post here in case someone had additional ideas.
I'm needing this saw soon.
All input would be appreciated. Anyone?