This article provides a video guide covering the assembly and starting procedure for your Hawksmoor 53cc petrol chainsaw.

Video Guide

This video explains how to assemble, prepare, and start your chainsaw correctly:




This article provides a guide covering the assembly and starting procedure for your Hawksmoor 53cc petrol chainsaw.

What's Included

Depending on the model, the package may include:

  • Instruction manual
  • Chainsaw body
  • Chain Bar
  • Chain
  • Grease Port
  • Multi Tool
  • Chain brake nuts
  • Chain Tension Adjustment Screw

Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: Assembly

  • Remove the chain brake cover
  • Fit the chain bar onto the chainsaw body
  • Place the chain into the bar groove
  • Pull the chain bar outward slightly to pre-tension the chain
  • Align the chain brake holes and mounting bolts
  • Refit the chain brake assembly onto the chainsaw body
  • Tighten the nuts by hand (do not fully tighten at this stage)
  • Use the multi-tool to secure the chain brake nuts

Important: Ensure the chain is correctly seated before final tightening.

Step 2: Chain Tensioning

  • Turn the tension screw clockwise to tighten the chain
  • Check that the chain is snug but still moves freely by hand
  • Fully tighten the side nuts using the multi-tool
  • Engage the chain brake

Correct tension prevents derailment and improves cutting performance.

Step 3: Starting Procedure (Cold Start)

  • Prepare fuel using fresh petrol (under 30 days old) mixed with oil
  • Ensure correct mix ratio as per manufacturer guidance
  • Switch the chainsaw ON
  • Engage the chain brake
  • Press the primer bulb 8–10 times until fuel is visible
  • Fully pull out the choke
  • Pull the starter cord until the engine attempts to fire
  • Push the choke to the “start/run” position
  • Pull the starter cord again to start the engine
  • Use the trigger and safety lock to stabilise running

Important: The engine may require several pulls depending on temperature.

Step 4: Operating the Chainsaw

  • Ensure the chain brake is engaged before starting
  • Switch the chainsaw ON
  • Prime using the bulb (8–10 presses)
  • Pull the starter cord to start the engine
  • Release the chain brake
  • Press the throttle trigger to release the choke and begin cutting

Step 5: Hot Start (Restarting Warm Engine)

  • Engage the chain brake
  • Switch the chainsaw ON
  • Pull the starter cord until the engine starts
  • Disengage the chain brake
  • The chainsaw is ready for use

Important Safety Information

  • Always engage the chain brake before starting or handling
  • Never over-tighten the chain
  • Use only correctly mixed fuel
  • Keep hands and clothing clear of moving chain
  • Allow engine to warm before full load cutting

Frequently Asked Questions

Why won’t my chainsaw start?

Common causes include incorrect choke position, insufficient priming, stale fuel, or not enough pulls on the starter cord.

Why does the engine start then cut out?

This is often caused by incorrect choke use or not enough warm-up time after starting.

How tight should the chain be?

The chain should sit snug on the bar but still move freely by hand when the brake is off.

Do I need to engage the chain brake when starting?

Yes. The chain brake must always be engaged before starting for safety.

What fuel should I use?

Use fresh petrol (under 30 days old) mixed with the correct 2-stroke oil ratio as specified for your model.