Stihl Ms310 Fuel Line Change: Step-By-Step Guide

The Stihl MS310 is a chainsaw that requires regular maintenance to keep it in good working order. One such maintenance task is the replacement of the fuel lines, which tend to age quickly due to fuel impurities and should be replaced almost every season. This is a detailed process that involves first draining the old fuel, removing the fuel filter, and then taking out the air filter box and choke cover plate. The fuel return hose and fuel suction hose are then pulled out and replaced with new lines, which are connected to the intake and outtake valves on the carburetor. Finally, the new fuel filter is attached, and the gas cap, air filter box, and air filter are refitted.

Drain old fuel into an approved container

To drain old fuel from your Stihl MS310 chainsaw, you'll need to open the fuel tank cap and drain all the old fuel into an approved fuel container. This is important for safety and to prevent fuel spills. Make sure you are wearing appropriate protective gear, such as gloves and eye protection, and that you are working in a well-ventilated area.

Approved fuel containers are typically made of durable materials, such as metal or heavy-duty plastic, and are designed to safely store flammable liquids. They often have tight-fitting lids to prevent spills and vents to release pressure and reduce the risk of explosion. Before draining the fuel, ensure that your container is clean and dry to avoid contaminating the fuel or creating a fire hazard.

When draining the fuel, use a funnel to avoid spills, and always label the container clearly to indicate that it contains flammable liquid. It is also a good idea to keep the container away from sources of heat, sparks, or open flames, as the fuel vapors can be highly combustible.

Once you have drained the old fuel, you can start the process of replacing the fuel lines. This involves removing the air filter cover, unhooking the air filter, and removing the mounting screws holding the air filter box in place. You will also need to remove the choke cover plate on top of the carburetor and unhook the throttle cable.

Remove the fuel filter

To remove the fuel filter of a Stihl MS310 chainsaw, start by opening the fuel tank cap and draining all the old fuel into an approved fuel container. Then, pull the fuel filter at the bottom of the tank upward using a metal hook. You can use baling wire for this. Once the filter is released from the bottom of the tank, pull it off the end of the suction hose.

Now that you have removed the fuel filter, you can continue with the next steps to replace the fuel lines.

Unhook the air filter and remove its cover

To unhook the air filter and remove its cover, you will need to have already opened the fuel tank cap and drained all old fuel into an approved fuel container. You will also need to have pulled the fuel filter at the bottom of the tank upward using a metal hook and removed it from the end of the suction hose.

Now, to unhook the air filter and remove its cover, first, remove the air filter's cover. Then, simply unhook the air filter. Next, remove the two mounting screws holding the air filter box in place. Once the air filter box is removed, you can then remove the choke cover plate on top of the carburetor. Finally, unhook the throttle cable from the choke cover plate.

Disconnect the throttle cable

To disconnect the throttle cable when changing the fuel lines of a Stihl MS310, follow these steps:

Firstly, remove the air filter cover and unhook the air filter. You will then need to remove the two mounting screws that are holding the air filter box in place. Once you have done this, you can access the choke cover plate on top of the carburetor.

Now, you are ready to disconnect the throttle cable. Begin by locating the choke cover plate. The throttle cable should be hooked onto this plate. Carefully unhook the throttle cable from the choke cover plate, taking care not to damage any nearby components. With the throttle cable disconnected, you can continue with the fuel line replacement process. Ensure that you have a clear workspace and that you are wearing appropriate protective gear, such as gloves and eye protection.

It is important to note that the throttle cable plays a crucial role in regulating the engine's speed and performance. By connecting the carburetor to the throttle trigger, it allows for precise control over the air-fuel mixture entering the engine. Therefore, when disconnecting and handling the throttle cable, it is essential to be cautious and avoid any damage that could impact the engine's functionality.

In addition to disconnecting the throttle cable, you will also need to remove the fuel lines and replace them with new ones. This involves draining the old fuel, removing the fuel filter, and carefully pulling out the fuel lines from their respective positions in the engine. Make sure to dispose of the old fuel and fuel lines safely and appropriately.

Pull the fuel return hose off the stub

To pull the fuel return hose off the stub, you will need to use your fingers. The fuel return hose is located next to the spacer flange. Once you have located it, simply pull it off with your fingers. This is a straightforward task, but it is important to ensure that you are pulling on the correct hose. The fuel return hose is one of two hoses in the fuel lines, with the other being the fuel suction hose. The fuel return hose is responsible for returning excess fuel from the carburetor back to the tank, where it can be reused. By contrast, the fuel suction hose is responsible for sucking gas from the tank into the carburetor. Both of these hoses need to be replaced almost every season as they age quickly due to fuel impurities.

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