Use this guide when a Sun Joe cordless chainsaw, pole saw, or Power Pruning Saw will not start, stops during use, runs slowly, or has a chain that is hot, smoking, or not moving.

Models Covered and Power Type

This article covers cordless models only. Corded electric chainsaws and pole saws use different power checks. View the current Shop Joe chainsaw and pole-saw collection.

Troubleshooting Steps

1. Let the Saw Cool

   If the saw stopped during operation or feels unusually hot, remove the battery and allow the saw to cool for at least five minutes. An overloaded or overheated saw may stop to protect the tool.

2. Check the Battery Charge

   Press the battery's charge-level button, if equipped. Recharge the battery with the charger specified for its battery system when the charge is low. X20 ECOSHARP batteries are not interchangeable with 24V IONMAX batteries.

3. Reinstall the Battery

   Inspect the battery and battery compartment for visible damage or debris. Do not use a damaged battery. Slide a compatible, charged battery into the compartment until it clicks and locks securely. The 24V-X2-CS16 requires both specified 24V batteries to be installed.

4. Use the Safety Start Sequence

   Make sure any required hand guard or chain brake is in its operating position. Hold the safety lock as described in the exact-model manual, then squeeze the trigger switch. On models such as the 24V-PS8-LTE, the safety lock must be moved first before the trigger will start the motor.

5. Check Chain Tension

   Remove the battery and let the saw cool. A cold chain should sit snugly on the guide bar without slack underneath, but it must still move by hand without binding. Adjust the chain only by following the tensioning procedure for the exact model; tool-less and tool-adjusted systems are not adjusted the same way.

6. Check Bar-and-Chain Lubrication

   Check the oil level through the tank or oil-level window on models equipped with an oiler. Refill only with bar-and-chain oil when needed. Remove visible debris from the oil port and guide-bar lubrication holes as directed in the model manual. Do not run an oil-equipped saw with an empty oil tank.

7. Inspect the Bar and Chain

   Check for a backwards, dull, loose, damaged, or binding chain and for a bent, cracked, or visibly damaged guide bar. Do not test the saw if a cutting component is damaged or the chain cannot move freely after correct tensioning.

8. Test the Saw Safely

   Reinstall the battery only after every guard, cover, lock, bar, and chain is secured. Start the saw away from the cutting surface and allow the chain to reach operating speed before beginning a cut. Never force the saw through the material.

What the Result May Mean

• Motor does not start: Recheck battery charge, battery installation, the safety-start sequence, and chain tension.
• Saw stops during use: Recharge the battery, allow the saw to cool, and reduce the cutting load.
• Motor runs but the chain does not move: Remove the battery and check for excessive chain tension, binding, or visible bar, chain, or sprocket damage.
• Chain speed is low: Check battery charge, chain tension, lubrication, chain sharpness, and visible bar or chain damage.
• Bar or chain becomes hot or smokes: Stop immediately. Check oil level, oil passages, chain tension, and chain condition only after removing the battery and allowing the saw to cool.

If the Saw Still Does Not Operate Properly