The easy start feature refers to pulling effort, not how many pulls it takes to start. How old is the machine? If it has sat with gas in it, then it may be harder to start. Also the process to start some Stihls must be followed to a T or you will flood it. When you start it, put the choke on and pull the rope. You will not pull it more than 3 times on full choke. When you pull it and it makes an effort to start (fires off) then move it to half choke. the machine will start on half choke and then you can pull the trigger and the lever will move to idle automatically. Depending on the age of the unit, the dealer may be able to work something out. I personally do not like the 86 model, the 85 was much better to me, but we no longer have that option.