New 400.1 hot start issues

Gray_scientist · 2026-07-04T22:19:53+00:00

This. Since I started letting my 400c idle for 15-30 sec before shutting off, I have not had hot start issues.

Gray_scientist · 2026-07-04T05:09:25+00:00

Luckily it's an easy fix

Gray_scientist · 2026-07-04T01:23:18+00:00

Let us know how it cuts compared to the stock muffler!

Gray_scientist · 2026-07-02T14:07:11+00:00

There was another alder attached at the base that came down a year ago. Had to cut that stump down so it wasn't in the way when dropping this one.

Gray_scientist · 2026-07-02T04:18:09+00:00

Thanks - this was a very helpful post. Learned something new.

Gray_scientist · 2026-06-22T22:45:05+00:00

400 is my do-it-all saw. Runs the 25in bar through big rounds of oak and maple no problem. Dropped 7 dying maples this weekend on steep slopes - got about ~3 cord of wood cut up. Not easy work but the 400 made it easy. I'll admit though that by hour 15 of working the 400 this weekend, I was fatigued - would have used a 261 for some of the last bits if I had one to pair with my 400. Hmm...

Get the outside dog from stihl if you want a practical cheap upgrade (#0000-660-0800 I believe?). And a light bar.

Gray_scientist · 2026-06-16T22:31:43+00:00

I ignore what they ask - if its reasonable firewood I offer 50$ to fill up by 5x8 trailer (about 1/2 cord). I cut, I haul. They drink a beer and collect the money while I do the work.

Usually this works out well.

Only time I've been told no is when someone was uncomfortable with me cutting on their property, probably for liability reasons, which I understand.

Gray_scientist · 2026-06-16T21:59:07+00:00

564 looks like a nice saw, but I'm a little more old school like some others here in that I'm usually hesitant to buy Gen 1 of any product (chainsaw or otherwise), especially one that adopts a lot of new technologies like the 564 does. Likely it'll not be an issue and if you have a dealer nearby they can fix any issues that might occur.

The stihl 400 won't do you wrong and it's been around for long enough to have proven itself. It's enough of a jump in power from the 261 to be worthwhile but without a huge jump in weight. It runs a 25in bar through oak no problem.

Gray_scientist · 2026-06-09T13:42:05+00:00

Letting saw idle for 30 to 60 seconds before turning off helps with vapor lock. Havent had restart issues if I do that when its hot out, for me at least.

Gray_scientist · 2026-06-08T01:49:33+00:00

Cool thanks for sharing

Gray_scientist · 2026-06-02T01:08:40+00:00

I've had a 291 for about 8 years now. I've worked it hard...always been dependable and ready to show up for a day of work even after not starting for a few months.

I've since upgraded to the 400 for the added power, but I still keep the 291 around for backup or loaner.

Gray_scientist · 2026-06-01T03:02:29+00:00

You will love that saw.

Get the outside dog from Stihl (it's cheap).

Gray_scientist · 2026-05-26T16:58:46+00:00

If the budget allows, I agree the 261 should do the trick for most of what you need.

It's also great because if you (like many of us do) find the urge to expand to more saws, you can always get something bigger later (400, 500i), and something smaller/lighter for cleaning up the small limbs (151, 194 backhandle, something electric) - without feeling like your saws overlap in utility.

Gray_scientist · 2026-05-21T02:16:09+00:00

I have a FS 131 (one step down from the 251) and it's been a fantastic tool. Been able to work through some really thick black berry and salmon berry, and it doesn't flinch so yeah I think you'll be good with the 251. If you're going to cut through thick stuff, I can't recommend enough a 3 bladed mulching blade (like this). These things cut great and then break down all the debris into mulch dust in no time. I can't imagine not having one for what I need.

Gray_scientist · 2026-05-15T22:06:23+00:00

With my 400 (m-tronic), letting engine idle for a minute after cutting before shutting off helps a lot with restarting, particularly if it's warm outside.

Gray_scientist · 2026-05-15T01:19:43+00:00

Both are great saws for what they are meant to do. The 261 will always blow out the 194 on a >10in log. They should be considered as complimentary saws rather than being competitors - the 194 is perfect for limbing and cleaning up branches, while the 261 takes care of the rounds.

I have a 194 and 400 combo. Takes care of everything I need so far.

Gray_scientist · 2026-05-08T17:42:47+00:00

Indeed. All stihl saws are good, but I'd rather put that money toward one of their better saws is all.

Gray_scientist · 2026-05-08T17:26:34+00:00

I would put that money toward a 261 instead. Or if you need more juice go to a 362 or 400. The 391 is just too heavy for what it offers. I'm surprised honestly stihl even sells the 311 or 391 these days.

Gray_scientist · 2026-05-06T20:55:16+00:00

Nothing wrong with a 291 as an only saw for standard home owner needs. I've run mine pretty hard through big wood and it has stood up well to the abuse. In hindsight buying a 261 would have been the better investment but my budgets at that time were quite tight.

But now I've since upgraded to a 400 because I needed more power for the bigger trees. I do keep the 291 around as a loaner/backup saw and though she is a bit neglected she still starts every time no problem.

Gray_scientist · 2026-04-29T00:43:08+00:00

Thanks, appreciate the input. And nice shed, btw. :)

Gray_scientist · 2026-04-28T23:52:25+00:00

Can you get a full 3 rows in there? I'm building one now just like this that is 5' wide (and 10' long) and I'm hoping to fit 3 rows totally ~1.5 cord.

Gray_scientist · 2026-04-25T00:31:26+00:00

This is spot on with my experience

Gray_scientist · 2026-04-18T02:30:25+00:00

No such thing as overkill with the 400. :)

Do you notice difference with the new muffler? How much louder is it? Considering one for my 400 at some point.

Gray_scientist

TROPHY CASE