2dumb4words
ArboristSite Operative
I picked up a saw a while back that had been "smoked". Saw in question is an Echo cs-4400. Previous owner had apparently run it with the brake on. Brake band was scored, and grooved but not quite broke. Due to alignment with muffler in locked position, brake handle has a little melted spot (dime size on top). Only thing I had to do to get it working... Release the brake.
In researching what is, was, or could be damaged I've come across quite a few other "brake" stories. Mostly folks that start a brand new saw and let it "warm up" idling with the brake on. Only to have it catch fire or smoke the clutch. Personally, I've pretty much always started saws with the brake released. Old timers managed ok before brakes right? I might engage the brake while stepping over obstacles/brush. But seldom. Typically I'm either cutting, or I shut the saw off. I pretty much view it as a safety feature, not a pause button.
I always sort of assumed that the whole "starting with the brake engaged" was more to protect the manufacturer from liability. And that a free spinning chain has to be easier on the clutch. Should I reconsider?
Opinions appreciated,
2dumb
In researching what is, was, or could be damaged I've come across quite a few other "brake" stories. Mostly folks that start a brand new saw and let it "warm up" idling with the brake on. Only to have it catch fire or smoke the clutch. Personally, I've pretty much always started saws with the brake released. Old timers managed ok before brakes right? I might engage the brake while stepping over obstacles/brush. But seldom. Typically I'm either cutting, or I shut the saw off. I pretty much view it as a safety feature, not a pause button.
I always sort of assumed that the whole "starting with the brake engaged" was more to protect the manufacturer from liability. And that a free spinning chain has to be easier on the clutch. Should I reconsider?
Opinions appreciated,
2dumb