How to Start Echo Chainsaw CS 590: Easy Trick

I still remember the first Tuesday I took my Echo CS-590 Timber Wolf out to the woodpile. It was a crisp, cold morning. I had a massive oak log waiting for me. I was used to smaller saws, so I just grabbed the cord and ripped on it.

My shoulder almost popped out of its socket.

That is when I learned my first lesson: this saw is a beast. It has huge compression. If you don’t follow the right steps, it will fight you. But once I figured out the “secret” routine, it starts on the first or second pull every time.

Here is exactly how I start my CS-590 without flooding the engine or hurting my arm.

The “Secret” Blue Button

Before we pull any cords, we need to talk about the blue button on top of the cylinder.

I cannot stress this enough: Use it.

The CS-590 has a big engine. That creates a lot of pressure inside. Pressing that blue button lets some air escape. It makes pulling the rope smooth and easy. If you forget this step, you will feel it in your elbow the next day.

My Cold Start Steps

This is my go-to method when the saw hasn’t run all day.

1. Set the Brake: I always push the front handguard forward first. It keeps the chain still.
2. Flip the Switch: I turn the metal toggle switch up to “Run.”
3. Pull the Choke: I pull the black knob on the back left side all the way out.
4. Press the Blue Button: I push the button down. It clicks into place.
5. The “Pop” (Listen Closely): I put my boot in the handle and pull the cord firmly. Usually, on the third pull, the engine goes pop. It sounds like a quick cough. Stop pulling immediately.

The Most Common Mistake

This is where I messed up in the beginning. Once you hear that “pop,” the engine has fired. If you keep pulling with the choke out, you will fill the engine with gas.

6. Push the Choke In: I push the black knob back in. This sets the saw to “Fast Idle.”
7. Press the Button AGAIN: This is the trick. When the engine popped, it likely pushed the blue button back up. You must press it down a second time.
8. The Real Start: Now, I give it one smooth pull. It usually roars to life instantly.
9. Tap the Trigger: The saw will be loud. I quickly tap the throttle trigger. This drops it down to a normal, quiet idle.

Quick Guide: What Does the Sound Mean?

I made this table to help you listen to what your saw is telling you.

Sound	What It Means	My Action
Hollow “Whoosh”	The engine is just spinning air.	Keep the choke OUT. Keep pulling.
A Short “Burp” or “Pop”	The engine tried to start.	Stop! Push choke IN. Press blue button.
Loud Roar	The saw started!	Tap the trigger to slow it down.
Wet / Gurgling Sound	The engine is likely flooded.	Push choke IN. Hold trigger open. Pull hard.

Dealing with a Flooded Engine

Last month, I got distracted. I missed the “pop” sound and kept pulling with the choke out. The saw wouldn’t start, and I could smell gas. I had flooded it.

If this happens to you, don’t worry. Here is how I fix it:

1. I verify the switch is On.
2. I push the choke knob IN.
3. I hold the throttle trigger wide open with my right hand (or put my knee on it).
4. I pull the rope fast and hard about 5 to 8 times.

It takes a little effort, but it clears the extra fuel out. It will eventually sputter and run.

Why I Love This Saw

Once the Echo CS-590 is running, it eats through wood. I use it for bucking firewood and dropping medium trees. It vibrates less than my older saws, and that 20-inch bar gives me plenty of reach.

Just remember the golden rule of the Timber Wolf: Press the blue button. Do it before every single pull. Your shoulder will thank you.

FAQs – How to Start Echo Chainsaw CS 590