Foot-Operated Chainsaw Starter

To lessen the force on his arthritic wrists when starting his chainsaw, Walter Sargent of Auburn, ME, developed a Foot-Operated Chainsaw Starter. The device consists of: (a) a small platform on his pickup truck tailgate (to which the chainsaw fastens); (b) a vertical post that extends from the ground to about 3 feet above the tailgate platform, with a pulley mounted on top; and (c) a rope that fastens at one end to a wood lever at ground level, runs up to and over the pulley, then down to and fastening on the chainsaw starter cord. When Sargent pushes the lever down with his foot, the starter cord is pulled, starting the chainsaw.

Cost:

Impairment Category: Back, Lower extremity, Strength/endurance, Upper extremity

Caution: Tasks like tree felling, brush clearing, log splitting, and wood cutting are dangerous, and utmost caution should be used to protect the operator and bystanders. Follow the recommendations of the equipment/tool manufacturer for proper use and for necessary protective equipment needed for safe operation.