Posted: 8/28/2016 3:56:27 PM EDT
 This was my grandfather's ~1973 McCulloch 10-10 Automatic chainsaw. It has not run since probably the late eighties. It needs a few parts, new fuel line and filter, new ignition switch for sure. A new spark plug would probably be required. A new air breather and grill around the starter-reel would be nice. A new chain and maybe a bar although that bar is in OK condition. So is it worth the effort to get it running or am I better off with a new saw? It will probably only get use a half a dozen times a year but it would get used. What the the GD hive mind think?! |
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I have two of those. They are a workhorse when they are running.
First, if those have the point type ignition, I'd change out for the breaker-less system. I had to replace the coils on both my saws, so I went to the breaker-less system at the same time. Carbs are easy to take apart and clean. They use a proprietary fuel line and filter from the tank to the carb. You'll probably need one. The good thing is all the parts for it are easy to get on Ebay. The beast is heavy, but properly maintained, it will last a LONG time. |
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Half a dozen trimmings of stray branches the wind blew down or half a dozen full days cutting several cords of firewood?
If just around the yard, fix it. If you are cutting a winter's worth of firewood consider buying a new one that will be lighter, cut faster, be somewhat safer (chain brake) and probably be a little more reliable for less than $300. I used to own one and cut a LOT of firewood with it over the course of several years. I usually dinked with something or other (usually a carb adjustment) a couple times a season, but it cut ok. Got rid of it when the recoil mechanism kept slipping leaving the cord hanging out and I couldn't find one online. |
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Quoted: I have two of those. They are a workhorse when they are running. First, if those have the point type ignition, I'd change out for the breaker-less system. I had to replace the coils on both my saws, so I went to the breaker-less system at the same time. Carbs are easy to take apart and clean. They use a proprietary fuel line and filter from the tank to the carb. You'll probably need one. The good thing is all the parts for it are easy to get on Ebay. The beast is heavy, but properly maintained, it will last a LONG time. |
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Quoted: Half a dozen trimmings of stray branches the wind blew down or half a dozen full days cutting several cords of firewood? If just around the yard, fix it. If you are cutting a winter's worth of firewood consider buying a new one that will be lighter, cut faster, be somewhat safer (chain brake) and probably be a little more reliable for less than $300. I used to own one and cut a LOT of firewood with it over the course of several years. I usually dinked with something or other (usually a carb adjustment) a couple times a season, but it cut ok. Got rid of it when the recoil mechanism kept slipping leaving the cord hanging out and I couldn't find one online. Probably two or three times a year with major work, cutting firewood for the hunting camp and clearing trails. Two or three times a year with lighter duty around the house cleaning up the trees in the yard. |
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Quoted: My dad had a little McCullogh. It quit. He bought another just like it. It quit. He took both apart and made one out of them. It quit.  I have a new fuel line and ignition switch ordered $20 total. If I can get it started I will replace a few more parts and use it till it dies. If not I will hang it up as a memento of my grandfather and buy myself a Stihl. I am sure he is laughing at me right now watching me try to fix this old thing. |