Chainsaw Repair

Husqvarna - Stihl - Poulan - Jonsered - Dolmar chainsaws and more => Stihl => Topic started by: 020shc on December 17, 2016, 11:22:14 pm

Title: Scored cylinder and piston?
Post by: 020shc on December 17, 2016, 11:22:14 pm
I have a 4 year old Stihl 290 that my shop hasn't just told me is junk because of a scored piston and cylinder. I brought it in because it sat for a year and then would not start. To say I am shocked is not exaggerating.

First, how does that even happen to a machine that is not opened up?
Second, is it really that expensive to fix? A new one is $500. I can't believe it is that much to fix - but the shop suggested I just buy new. Maybe I should seek a second opinion?



Title: Re: Scored cylinder and piston?
Post by: jmester on December 18, 2016, 08:12:51 am
I would get your saw back and tear it apart and post some pics of the piston and cylinder. The cylinder may clean up and all that it would need is a new piston. And to figure out what happen exactly happen to it, lean carb setting, air leak etc.
If your shop is a Stihl dealer they are going to use an oem p and c witch is going to be salty then labor on top of that you won't be far off a new one.
Title: Re: Scored cylinder and piston?
Post by: pleasant on December 30, 2016, 05:00:34 pm
I have to agree with the previous comment. The domestic/farmer Stihl chainsaws use a clamshell type engine which is very labour intensive to remove and re-build- then of course you have the cost of a new genuine piston and barrel (if it's a Stihl main agent) as a dealer won't just fit a piston even if the barrel is just slightly scored. He won't want you to bring it back and blame him for doing half a job, so to guarantee a repair they will err on the side of caution- hence the cost. Stihl pro saws use a different engine style and although the saws are dearer to buy, irinically they are quicker, cheaper and easier to repair.
Title: Re: Scored cylinder and piston?
Post by: sharkey on December 30, 2016, 10:38:16 pm
The problem at the dealership is the labor rate.  If your handy, you can do the work yourself. 

In fact, here are the parts to do the whole job for a little over $100;
http://www.hlsproparts.com/Stihl-029-MS290-overhaul-kit-with-crankshaft-p/h30291-dns.htm

If your good with a set of wrenches, you might be able to fit the ms390 short block into that frame and get a little more power out of it.