Small Engines (Lawn Mowers, etc.): McCulloch Power Mac 310 chain saw, spark plug wire, compression release

Question
Engine, carb and fuel lines cleaned, all appears in good shape on this small 2 cycle engine.  When engine pulls easily, it will run fine.   Other times it is all but impossible to pull, taking two people to hold it down.  Is there some kind of a starting compression release that is not working properly when this happens?  Any ideas will be greatly appreciated.

Thanks, Bernie

Answer
Hi Bernie,

Yes, there may be a compression release that isn't working or the timing somehow gets advanced.  When it happens again, try disconecting the spark plug wire or leaving the kill switch off, to see if it pulls over easier without ignition.  I am not familiar with compression releases, so I can't give you advice on inspecting or repairing them.  Sorry.

Let me know how you make out.
Michael