Spark plug gap for best performance

[Zaylor]

I’ve been working on chainsaws all morning and noticed a few are running a bit rough. What gap do you typically set, and what’s your reasoning? I’m really interested in how small tweaks can make a difference in performance, starting, and throttle response in everyday use.

 

[Kickbackking]

I generally keep the gap between .020 and .025. A tighter gap seems to help with easier starts and smoother idling especially on older coils without giving up any performance when it comes to cutting.

 

[SawdustKing]

After dealing with a strange stumble once, I decided to stop worrying so much about it. Around .020 works well for me. It strikes a good balance between spark strength and reliability, starts easily whether it’s cold or hot, and handles minor tuning or air filter issues without a problem.

 

[SappyGuy]

I typically set my saws to about .020.
A smaller gap gives a hotter spark allows for quicker starts, and provides a snappier throttle response.
I’ve noticed that in everyday use, it leads to fewer bogging issues and less hassle when the temperature changes or the fuel quality isn’t great.

 

[Leon Couper]

I stick between 020 to 025 but having a lot of saws with points ignition which throws
a real hot spark I have run 030 but have found on the old girls they seem to go
well on 025. I got bitten the other day with one of the points ignition ones
and can tell you they pack a fair wallop.

 

[Alan]

Great tips adjusting the gap settings really does change things a lot.