FAQ
TL;DR: Harder PN 5200 that starts then dies on throttle? Set L to 1¼ turn and H to 1⅜ turn; "So the problem with fuel." Replace the plug, tighten the carb-to-cylinder, and clean the tank pickup filter before fine-tuning. [Elektroda, Sniezynka, post #17267277]
Why it matters: This FAQ helps owners of 5200‑style chainsaws quickly restore acceleration without guesswork or unnecessary part swaps.
Quick Facts
- Baseline carb screws: L 1¼ turn out; H 1⅜ turn out; use as a starting point, then fine‑tune. [Elektroda, Sniezynka, post #17267277]
- Before tuning, replace the spark plug, tighten the carb-to-cylinder, and confirm gaskets are intact. [Elektroda, Sniezynka, post #17268057]
- If it dies on throttle, inspect and clean the tank pickup (“dragon”) filter. [Elektroda, Staszek49, post #17267481]
- Suppressor/muffler was already cleaned in-thread; focus next on fuel and carburation. [Elektroda, Sniezynka, post #17267131]
- Lost manual? Use the shared Greenstar 5200 manual; it’s the “same saw” under another importer. [Elektroda, Sniezynka, post #17267298]
Why does my chainsaw start then die when I hit the gas?
Your symptoms point to fueling and carb settings. Start from L 1¼ turn and H 1⅜ turn. Check that fuel hoses are whole. Then warm up and fine‑tune L for pickup and H for power under load. "So the problem with fuel." [Elektroda, Sniezynka, post #17267277]
How should I use the spark plug’s condition (wet or dry) to troubleshoot?
Check the plug immediately after it stalls. Use its condition to guide next steps. For wet plugs, service and adjust the carb. For dry plugs, inspect the tank pickup filter and fuel path. Clean debris and retest after each change. [Elektroda, Staszek49, post #17267481]
What baseline L and H screw settings should I start with on a 5200-type saw?
Use L at 1¼ turn out and H at 1⅜ turn out as a baseline. Set both gently to seated, then back out to those counts. Warm the engine, then fine‑tune under load for smooth acceleration and full‑throttle power. [Elektroda, Sniezynka, post #17267277]
I lost my Harder PN 5200 manual—what can I use instead?
Use the linked Greenstar 5200 manual. It was shared as a compatible guide for the same saw under a different importer. Quote: “another importer but saw the same.” It covers control layout and adjustment references you can follow. [Elektroda, Sniezynka, post #17267298]
Quick 3-step: how do I get it running after it stalls on throttle?
- Replace the spark plug with a new one.
- Tighten the carburetor to the cylinder and confirm gaskets are intact.
- Adjust the carb screws according to the instructions and test under load.
These steps restore a stable baseline before tuning. [Elektroda, Sniezynka, post #17268057]
Do I need to re-clean the muffler/spark arrestor?
If you already cleaned the suppressor, shift focus to fuel and carburation. The thread confirms the exhaust was cleaned, so repeating it is unlikely to help the throttle stall. Prioritize plug, carb settings, and fuel filter checks. [Elektroda, Sniezynka, post #17267131]
The plug is wet after it stalls—what’s the first move?
Replace the spark plug first. Next, tighten the carb-to-cylinder and ensure gaskets are intact. Then set the carb adjustment screws per the instructions before final tuning. This sequence avoids chasing an ignition or sealing issue mid‑tune. [Elektroda, Sniezynka, post #17268057]
How do I check the tank pickup ("dragon") filter?
Inspect the pickup filter for cleanliness and free flow. If dirty or restricted, clean or replace it and retest. A restricted pickup reduces fuel delivery and can cause stalls when you open the throttle. Address this before carb fine‑tuning. [Elektroda, Staszek49, post #17267481]
It revs high at start, then dies when I squeeze the throttle—what should I adjust?
Set the carb to baseline: L at 1¼ turn, H at 1⅜ turn. Verify that fuel hoses are intact. Then warm up and fine‑tune L for crisp acceleration, and H for maximum power without lean bog. [Elektroda, Sniezynka, post #17267277]
Did others report the same issue on a clean, low-use saw?
Yes. Another user with an identical saw reported immediate power drop to zero on throttle despite low use and cleaning. They suspected the clutch but were seeking fuel‑system solutions on the forum. Their report mirrors your symptoms. [Elektroda, morling1, post #19534896]
Should I suspect the clutch if it dies on throttle?
Focus on fuel delivery and carburetor setup first. The thread guidance points to mixture and fueling, not the clutch, for this symptom. Start with baseline L/H settings and hose checks before considering drive components. [Elektroda, Sniezynka, post #17267277]
Edge case: If carb gaskets are damaged, will tuning fix the stall?
No. Ensure the carb-to-cylinder gaskets are intact before tuning. Replace damaged gaskets, tighten the mounting, then adjust the carb. Air leaks undermine mixture control and lead to persistent stalling despite screw changes. [Elektroda, Sniezynka, post #17268057]
