Replacing Homelite Ranger Chainsaw Fuel Tank: Step-By-Step Guide

If you need to replace the fuel tank of your Homelite Ranger chainsaw, you may be wondering if you need to split the tank to replace it. While some people suggest that you can simply run the fuel line through to the tank and leave it at that, others have found that they needed to completely disassemble the saw to get to the fuel tank. This includes removing the clutch, muffler, oil pump, and front carb assembly. However, one user has suggested that you can just remove the pull starter side to access the fuel tank.

Fuel line replacement without splitting the tank

To replace the fuel line in a Homelite chainsaw without splitting the tank, you will need to remove the clutch, muffler, oil pump, and front carb assembly. This process can be time-consuming and challenging, but it is possible to access the fuel tank and replace the fuel line without splitting the tank.

One method is to use a stiff wire with a hook at the end. Insert the wire into the tank and hook it onto the fuel/oil line. Then, carefully pull the fuel line out through the opening. If the line is difficult to remove, you may need to apply a small amount of lubricant, such as oil or red rubber grease, to the line to help it slide through more easily.

Another approach is to use the "ole fishing line trick." Cut the existing fuel line with a taper at the end and tie some fishing line near the end. Insert the fishing line through the hole into the tank and use a finger, screwdriver, forceps, or gentle wiggling to guide it out through the filler opening. Pull the fishing line, trying to keep it perpendicular to the hole and rotating it as needed if it feels tight. Once you can grab the new line coming out of the tank, you're almost done.

Additionally, you can try pushing the line through the top of the tank and grabbing it with a wire hook before putting on the filter. This method may work for certain models, such as the Super XL and XL 12.

Before attempting any of these methods, it is recommended to clean the tank thoroughly with warm soapy water or a solvent to remove any oil or fuel residue. This will ensure a good bond if you need to use silicone or another adhesive during the fuel line replacement process.

Fuel mixture ratios

The fuel mixture ratio for your Homelite Ranger chainsaw depends on the model and year of manufacture. For example, the blue-painted Homelite saws from the 1950s use a 16:1 mix, while the red ones use a 32:1 mix. If you have a 33CC motor, you might need a 32:1 or a 40:1 mix of fuel/oil. However, some users recommend using a 50:1 ratio with premium fuel that doesn't contain alcohol and a two-stroke oil designed for high-temperature applications.

It's important to note that using the correct fuel mixture is crucial for the proper functioning of your chainsaw. Using a ratio with insufficient oil can lead to lubrication problems and damage to the engine. On the other hand, using too much oil can result in soot buildup and stuck rings.

Additionally, it's recommended to avoid using outboard motor oil intended for water-cooled applications, as it has a different temperature operating range and is not suitable for chainsaws.

For older Homelite chainsaws from the 1950s to the 1970s, a 16:1 fuel mixture ratio or half a pint of oil per gallon was common. However, with the advancements in oil technology, some sources suggest that a 50:1 ratio can also be used without harming the engine.

To ensure you are using the correct fuel mixture ratio for your specific Homelite Ranger chainsaw model, it is always best to refer to the owner's manual or seek advice from an authorized service centre.

Fuel line installation

To install a fuel line in a Homelite chainsaw, you will need to start by removing the grommet from the tank. Next, slide the line through the grommet, feeding it through until it extends out of the gas cap hole. Attach the fuel filter, and place it inside the tank. Pull the line back into the tank until the filter rests at the bottom of the tank. Finally, put the grommet back into the tank.

If you are having trouble removing the fuel line, try the "fishing line trick". Cut the line with a nice long taper and tie some fishing line near the end. Run the line through the hole into the tank and fish it out through the filler opening with your finger, a screwdriver, forceps, or by wiggling it. Oil on the new fuel line will help it slide through more easily. Pull the fishing line, trying to keep it perpendicular to the hole, and rotate the line if it feels too tight.

If you are installing a fuel line in a Homelite XL-12, you can try pushing the line through the top and grabbing it with a wire hook. Then, put on the filter.

For the Super XL and XL 12, some people have had success with cutting a piece of neoprene hose with the right ID for the carb and an OD just slightly larger than the hole in the housing. Squeeze it through with some dish detergent for lubrication.

Another method is to clean the tank thoroughly with warm soapy water and then run an extra-long piece of slightly smaller fuel line through the hole. Seal it with a generous fillet of gold silicone rubber and leave it to cure for a day. Move the line in and out about a quarter of an inch to get the silicone to fillet on both the inside and outside of the fuel tank hole. Then, cut the line to the desired length and attach a filter.

Some older Homelite saws used a formed fuel line, which can be challenging to install. Newer saws may use a straight line and a grommet, which is cheaper and easier to install.

Fuel tank access

To access the fuel tank of a Homelite chainsaw, you will need to disassemble the saw. This process can vary depending on the model of your Homelite chainsaw.

For a Homelite 240, you will need to remove the clutch, muffler, oil pump, and front carb assembly to access the fuel tank. It is also necessary to pull the engine from the case, similar to the process for an XL or Super 2 model. This process can be time-consuming and challenging, and it may be advisable to practice on a parts saw first.

For other models, such as the Homelite 360, it may be necessary to split the saw to access the fuel tank.

If you are having trouble figuring out how to access and replace the fuel line from the fuel tank to the carburettor, there is a trick you can try. First, cut the line with a nice lengthy taper and tie some fishing line to the end. Run the fishing line through the hole into the tank and fish it out through the filler opening using a finger, screwdriver, forceps, or by simply wiggling it. A bit of oil on the new fuel line will help it slide through more easily. Pull the fishing line, trying to keep it perpendicular to the hole and rotating it as needed if it feels too tight. Once you can grab the line from the filler opening, you're almost done.

Fuel tank removal

To replace the fuel tank on a Homelite Ranger chainsaw, you will first need to remove the existing fuel tank. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to do this:

• Disconnect the fuel line from the tank: Before you begin, make sure there is no fuel left in the tank to avoid spills. Carefully disconnect the fuel line from the tank by pulling it out.
• Access the fuel tank: Depending on the model of your Homelite Ranger, you may need to remove the pull starter side or disassemble other components to access the fuel tank. In some cases, you may need to remove the clutch, muffler, oil pump, and front carb assembly.
• Remove the fuel tank: Once you have access to the fuel tank, carefully detach it from the chainsaw. This may involve pulling the engine out of the case, as the fuel tank is often located at the back of the engine compartment.
• Clean the area: Before installing a new fuel tank, make sure to clean the area thoroughly to remove any dirt, debris, or residue.

It is important to refer to your specific model's manual or seek guidance from a professional if you are unsure about any steps or if your chainsaw model requires a different procedure.

Frequently asked questions