If you notice decreased air flow to the engine, what maintenance step should you perform?

• A. Adjust the spark plug.
• B. Service the air filter.
• C. Replace the fuel line.
• D. Tighten the bar nuts.

Answer: (B)

When air flow to the engine drops, the most effective maintenance step is to service the air filter. The air filter is in the path that feeds the carburetor, and if it’s clogged with dust, sawdust, and debris, it restricts how much air can enter. That restriction makes the engine run lean or overly rich, reducing power, causing hesitation, and potentially leading to overheating. Servicing the air filter means inspecting it, cleaning it if it’s reusable (following the proper method to avoid pushing debris further into the system), or replacing it if it’s saturated or damaged. After cleaning or replacing, reassemble and run the saw to verify that airflow has improved and performance returns.

The other options don’t address the root cause of reduced airflow: adjusting the spark plug affects ignition and combustion timing but not airflow; replacing the fuel line fixes fuel delivery, not air intake; tightening the bar nuts changes chain tension and has no impact on engine air intake.