Craftsman chainsaw wont stay running

Hey all, I'm fairly certain that it's probably a fuel issue, but I though I'd ask here before I go ordering a bunch of parts.

I have a '98 Craftsman 16" saw model # 358.352162 that will start up just fine, but dies in about 30 seconds after starting. Tried using it yesterday to cut up some downed trees, but it was too frustrating, so I went out got a new Husky 455 Rancher.

I'd like to get the 16" running again for limbing, so I'm going to order a new fuel filter, fuel line kit, and carb rebuild kit and see if I can it going again. I have already replaced the spark plug and tried running some carb cleaner through it, but to no avail.

Anybody know what carb is on this saw?

Any suggestions would be most welcome....Thanks!

 

Just took the carb off to find the name/model etc. It's a Walbro WT324.

It seems like it's not getting fuel. I can prime the heck out of it, and it will start and run for a bit. Then it dies after about 30-45 seconds and is hard to restart. I have to prime the heck out of it again to get it to re-start. I took off the fuel filter, and get the same result.

When pressing the primer button, I can see fuel flowing through two of the three lines. It flows through the larger of the three, and through one of the small ones leading to the carb. Not sure if this is correct.....but I suspect that the fuel lines are clogged.

 

It can always be something plugged, especially if the problem occurs after sitting along time. The most common problem is the diaphragm simply getting old and doesn't flex to pump the fuel.

Fuel lines can go bad and get air leaks along with the primer bulb. You just about have to work your way through the list.

Also check the fuel cap, especially if it starts, runs for a short time, then dies. Just loosen the cap and see where you're at. I imagine you're providing the fuel with the hard priming. That will also account for the hard starting = flooding it a little. then the fuel runs out and you're dead.

I suspect it's in the diaphragm (needs a kit) or the lines (replace), but check the cap too. If it comes to a kit, use a soak cleaner/compressed air to clean it out good.

 

Thanks for the tips. I'll be sure to check the cap too.

I've ordered a carb kit, a new filter, and a set of fuel lines. Hoping this will take care of things.