Safe and easy way to start a flooded chainsaw?

[Jim Chance]

I have a MS261C that likes to flood when I shut it off for a few minutes. I intend to get it fix, but in the mean time what do others think is a safe and easy way to start a saw when it is flooded? I set the brake, put the saw on the ground with the bar clear, hold it with a knee on the housing and a hand on the rear grip, squeeze the trigger, pull until it starts, release trigger. It works pretty well, but (a) it risks over heating the clutch, and (b) some people say holding the trigger open is unsafe. Most of the other methods I read about seem slow.

[Magicman]

I start a flooded saw just as you describe but since I release the trigger as soon as it hits, I am not concerned about the clutch.  That is the only way that I know to clear the cylinder and crankcase of excess fuel.

[beenthere]

Jim
What do you think is needed to just get the problem fixed ??

I too do not think the clutch is in danger, unless I'm missing something in your procedure. 

[arojay]

Ahem... this will likely get some reaction, but a bic flame at the muffler port has been used with success.

[Ianab]

As long as you let go the throttle as soon as it fires up, no big deal. No worse than getting the saw bogged down and having to back off and reset the cut / throttle. 

I find that some saws are just prone to flooding, especially if you can't decide on a cold or hot start. Like if it's been off for maybe 10 mins... Always try a warm start if you aren't sure. If it doesn't fire, ONE pull on choke, and try warm start again. 

[Old saw fixer]

My trick is to let the saw idle about 30 seconds or so after running it cutting wood.  
If you cut the motor off too soon, the electronics think the saw is still running and leaves the fuel at full throttle.
Another thing to try is use the choke when restarting.

[Jim Chance]

Jim
What do you think is needed to just get the problem fixed ??

I too do not think the clutch is in danger, unless I'm missing something in your procedure.

I am no means a full fledged mechanic. I brought it to the shop and they were unable to replicate the problem. My guess it is the fuel solenoid or the needle and seat or whatever controls it. I might just change the solenoid and if that does not work out a kit in the carburetor. 

[thecfarm]

I don't have the new saws, but I always let my saws idle for a minute after I get done cutting.