Replacing Fuel Lines: Homelite Chainsaw Maintenance Guide

If you're looking to replace the fuel line on your Homelite chainsaw, you've come to the right place. This paragraph will outline the steps you need to take to get the job done efficiently and effectively. It may seem like a daunting task, but with the right tools and guidance, you'll be able to replace that fuel line in no time. There are a few different methods you can try, depending on the model of your Homelite chainsaw, and we will explore some of these in this guide.

Try the fishing line trick to replace the fuel line

If you're struggling to replace the fuel line in your Homelite chainsaw, try the fishing line trick. First, cut the line with a nice lengthy taper and tie some fishing line near the end. Then, run the line through the hole into the tank and fish it out through the filler opening with your finger, a screwdriver, forceps, or just by wiggling it. You can also add a bit of oil to the new fuel line to help it slide through more easily.

Once you've done this, pull the fishing line, trying to keep it perpendicular to the hole and rotating the line as needed if it feels too tight. When you finally get the line through so that you can grab it, you're good to go. This trick can save you a lot of time and frustration, so it's worth giving it a try if you're having trouble replacing the fuel line in your Homelite chainsaw.

Another trick to try is to use a ballpoint pen spring or something similar but stronger. Stretch it over the fuel line after you've slid the spring over it and twist it in like a screw. This method works well on Husqvarna lines, where they're just straight tubes. It usually gets the first inch started so that it's far enough inside the tank to pull it the rest of the way.

Additionally, you can try cutting the tubing at an angle or slicing it in half for the first inch and putting a taper where it finally goes wide. This will give you a tag to grab onto and pull the line through. Alternatively, you can stick a piece of wire through the wall of the line and pull it into place, then cut off the small bit you punctured with the wire.

These tricks can make replacing the fuel line in your Homelite chainsaw much easier and less frustrating. Give them a try, and you'll be well on your way to getting your chainsaw up and running again.

Use a wire hook to grab the line

To change the fuel lines on a Homelite chainsaw, you can use a wire hook to grab the line. Here's a step-by-step guide:

• Take a stiff wire and form a small hook at one end. Ensure the wire is thin enough to fit inside the fuel line.
• Insert the wire into the fuel tank and use the hook to grab onto the fuel line.
• Gently pull the fuel line out of the tank. If it's difficult to remove, apply a small amount of oil to the line to help it slide out more easily.
• Once the fuel line is removed, cut the line with a nice, lengthy taper.
• Tie some fishing line near the end of the fuel line.
• Run the fishing line through the hole in the tank and guide it out through the filler opening using your finger, a screwdriver, forceps, or by gently wiggling it.
• Pull the fishing line, trying to keep it perpendicular to the hole. Rotate the line if needed to avoid any tight spots.
• When you have successfully guided the fishing line through, you can attach the new fuel line to it and pull it back through the tank.

This method allows you to replace the fuel line without having to completely disassemble the chainsaw, which can be a complex and time-consuming task.

Clean the tank with warm soapy water

To clean the tank with warm soapy water, you'll first need to remove the fuel line. This can be tricky, especially if your Homelite model has a formed fuel line. These can be a challenge to remove without damaging the line, so take care when doing so.

Once the fuel line is removed, you can start cleaning the tank. Fill the tank with warm water and add a good amount of dish soap, such as Palmolive. Use a sponge or brush to scrub the inside of the tank and remove any built-up fuel residue and slime. Be sure to clean all the nooks and crannies to ensure that the tank is thoroughly cleaned.

After scrubbing, rinse the tank with clean, warm water to remove any soap residue. It's important to ensure that the tank is completely free of soap before installing a new fuel line, as soap residue can interfere with the proper functioning of the chainsaw.

Allow the tank to air dry completely before proceeding to the next step. This may take some time, so be patient and don't try to rush the process. Once the tank is dry, you can move on to installing the new fuel line.

Use a grommet and straight line instead of a formed line

When changing the fuel line on a Homelite chainsaw, it is much easier to use a grommet and straight line instead of a formed line. This is because the formed line is a challenge to fit, often requiring the splitting of the tank and causing many people to break the pricy formed line.

To use a grommet and straight line, you will need to source the correct-sized grommet and a length of straight fuel line. The grommet should fit tightly into the tank and carb openings, with the line running through it. The fuel line should be long enough to reach from the airbox to the tank hole, with a little extra on each end.

Firstly, push the grommet into the tank opening, followed by the fuel line. The line should be lubricated with a small amount of red rubber grease or silicone spray to help it pass through the grommet and tank. Pull the line through with needle-nose pliers, leaving enough length for the fuel filter to reach the bottom of the tank. Attach the filter and push the line back into the tank, ensuring it sits flat at the bottom.

Next, cut the line to the required length to reach the metal tube, which you can leave in place to prevent the hose from being pinched off. Attach the line to the metal tube and screw on the bracket. Finally, cut the tank-side line to the correct length, and push the fuel filter into the tank.

Using a grommet and straight line is a more cost-effective and less frustrating method of replacing the fuel line on a Homelite chainsaw.

Use a small amount of red rubber grease to help insert the moulded end into the tank

When replacing the fuel line on a Homelite chainsaw, you may encounter difficulties inserting the moulded end into the tank. One solution is to use a small amount of red rubber grease. This will help the moulded end slide into the tank more easily.

It is important to note that you should only use a small amount of grease. Excess grease could lead to blockages or affect the performance of the chainsaw. Before applying the grease, ensure that the tank is clean and free of any debris. Warm soapy water can be used to clean the tank thoroughly.

The moulded fuel line can be challenging to work with, and it is easy to damage it during the installation process. Therefore, it is recommended to proceed with caution and be mindful of the amount of force applied. Using a wire hook to guide the line through the tank can also be helpful.

In some cases, it may be necessary to split the tank to replace the fuel line. However, this is a more complex procedure and should only be attempted if absolutely necessary. It is always a good idea to consult a professional or a repair manual for guidance if you are unsure about any steps in the process.

By following these instructions and using a small amount of red rubber grease, you can successfully insert the moulded end of the fuel line into the tank of your Homelite chainsaw.

Frequently asked questions