Husqvarna chainsaws are arguably the most commonly used and well-loved chainsaws in the forestry industry. Just like any other piece of working equipment, it can develop issues over time, When these problems arise, it’s easy to assume the chainsaw is done for and can no longer be used.
However, some instances just call for some simple maintenance or part replacements to get them back in working order. In this article, we’ll cover some of the most common problems you may run into with a Husqvarna chainsaw.
Are Husqvarna Chainsaws Any Good?
Husqvarna chainsaws are among the most widely used chainsaws in the forestry industry and in personal use. Their reputation has deemed them among the best chainsaws in the world and is made with incredible quality. While other chainsaw brands boast an ability to cut through dense wood, Husqvarna chainsaws offer quality results in less time.
10 Common Problems with Husqvarna Chainsaws
Although this brand of chainsaw has a positive reputation, it isn’t immune to running into issues. While many of these issues are easily fixable, some problems may require a little more time and work. With that said, let’s go over ten of the most common problems users run into with their Husqvarna chainsaw.
1. My Husqvarna Chainsaw Won’t Start
When your Husqvarna chainsaw won’t start right away, it’s possible you’ll just need to troubleshoot it. When troubleshooting is the issue, it’s typically due to dirty air filters or a faulty spark plug. In some cases, it may also need a rush chain-link replacement. Regardless of the troubleshooting issue, these are easily fixable by simply cleaning the filters or purchasing and replacing the parts that need it.
2. Husqvarna Chainsaw Leaks Oil When Sitting
If you notice a leak coming from your chainsaw while it isn’t in use, there are a few specific steps you need to take:
- Make sure your oil system still works. Consult your user manual to find how to deliver oil to the bar and chain.
- Remove the bar and chain. You’ll need to clean the chain off and make sure to clean any areas that may retain oil. These could be recesses or the underside of the equipment.
- Put the chainsaw on cardboard. Let the machine sit, undisturbed, for an hour.
- Roll the chainsaw sideways and check for oil. Do this slowly to ensure you don’t damage any part of the chainsaw. Isolated oil spots aren’t a cause for concern. However, pools of oil mean there’s likely a leak somewhere.
Leaks can form for a variety of reasons. The most common cause for this, however, is using the wrong type of oil in the chainsaw. The oil used needs to have a viscosity that allows it to adhere to the chain without being too thick or too thin.
3. My Husqvarna Chainsaw Stalls
When your Husqvarna chainsaw stalls out, it’s likely due to a clogged part called a spark arrestor. This piece of the chainsaw is the small screen that keeps your chainsaw from sparking while in use. Sticky fuel will build up over time and this causes the entire machine to struggle.
To avoid this issue, make sure to perform regular maintenance and clean off the screen when necessary.
4. Husqvarna Chainsaw Chain Chatters
Chattering is the most common issue you’ll run into when it comes to the chain of the chainsaw. This chattering noise usually occurs when the teeth of the chain get too worn down. You’ll know when you need to sharpen the train when you notice the wood chips are curved after cutting.
5. My Husqvarna Chainsaw has High Vibration
The more you use your chainsaw, the more susceptible it is to general wear and tear. Over time, the chain may loosen, which then causes that high vibrational feeling. If you feel the vibration is too much for you to handle, you can tighten up the teeth by using built-in tension adjusters. While older models may not have adjustment settings, newer models will.
6. Husqvarna Chainsaw Keeps Turning
If the chainsaw keeps turning after you’ve turned the machine off, it’s likely due to a faulty clutch or an issue with the return springs. The return springs are the parts that help the clutch engage. When these parts are faulty, you aren’t going to be able to get the chainsaw to cut correctly, if at all.
7. My Husqvarna Chainsaw has a Clogged Carburetor
When the carburetor is clogged, it’s usually because there is excess fuel left in the carburetor. To get rid of the excess fuel, all you need to do is yank the starter cord to dislodge and drain any fuel stuck in the machine. To ensure the fuel drains faster, disengage the starter.
8. Husqvarna Filters are Dirty
Just like with filters in your heat or A/C, chainsaw filters need to be replaced periodically in order for the chainsaw to function. To clean a plastic filter, all you need is soap and water. However, filters made of other materials may require a solvent to thoroughly clean.
During the process of cleaning the chainsaw filter, it’s generally recommended to also check the carburetor for clogs and checking the saw throttle too.
9. My Husqvarna Chainsaw Has Stiff Guide Bar Grooves
When the guide bar grooves grow stiff, it’s usually because has gathered at the chain right at the point of the guide bar. When this happens, the machine will act clogged and you’ll likely have trouble running the machine smoothly.
If you run into this issue, remove the drive case cover, the chain, and the bar. Clean the grooves with a small screwdriver or a piece of wire for smaller spaces. Flatten any nicks with a file by using perpendicular strokes to the bar’s flank.
10. Husqvarna Chainsaw Engine is Flooded
If the engine floods, it may look very similar to a leak. Engine flooding is usually due to overdoing the fuel pump before starting the chainsaw. A flooded engine can easily be diagnosed by an overwhelming smell of gas after you start up the chainsaw.
To fix the issue, you’ll need to completely drain the fuel tank and press the throttle while pulling the start cord. This will deactivate the choke and you can clean any remaining residue.
What is the Best Husqvarna Chainsaw?
Most professional woodcutters will recommend the Husqvarna 460 Ranch Chainsaw, and for good reason too. The 460 Ranch chainsaw is easy to start up and has an automatic oiler to deliver lubrication to ensure safety and precision while in use.
It also uses an anti-vibration system called LowFib to minimize vibration levels for the user, which contributes to the precision it allows for. Beyond that, this chainsaw also uses a specific X-torq engine to reduce fuel consumption and gas emissions, making it more sustainable and environmentally friendly than other chainsaws like it.
Related Questions
How to Start a Husqvarna Chainsaw?
Husqvana chainsaws are started by allowing fuel into the engine and pulling the ripcord to start it up. If the engine is cold, you need to activate the chain brake and press decompression control. You’ll then activate the choke and start the chainsaw at the ground.
Then, start the chainsaw and push the choke while allowing it to accelerate before releasing the chain break and getting started.
How to Start a Flooded Husqvarna Chainsaw?
To successfully start any flooded chainsaw, you need to allow time for the fuel to evaporate a bit inside of the chainsaw. There are two ways you can do this with the first being to just let it sit for around 20 minutes before starting the equipment.
For a more detailed method, follow these steps:
1. Turn the chain brake on and the choke off.
2. Activate the chainsaw’s fast idle. This is done by engaging the trigger assembly or pulling and pushing the choke.
3. Turn the machine on.
4. Hold the saw to the ground. Instead of using full pulls to turn the chainsaw on, use more shallow pulls.
If you find the machine still won’t start, you may need to remove the sparkplug and dry it off before putting it back in and trying again.
How to Clean a Husqvarna Chainsaw?
To properly clean a Husqvarna chainsaw, it’s important to follow these steps:
1. Remove the sparkplug. Clean the sparkplug with a file and assess the area for any damage before putting it back in.
2. Take off the muffler cover. You’ll need to pull out the spark arrestor screen to ensure it doesn’t need to be cleaned. If needed, you can clean it off with a brush or just replace the screen altogether.
3. Clean the filter. You’ll need to remove the cover then clean the filter by hand. The filter can usually be cleaned by using compressed air or soap and water. However, some materials may require some type of solution to thoroughly clean it. Don’t put the filter back until it has dried overnight.
4. Drain the gas. You should never mix old gas with new gas when it comes to chainsaws. Doing this can cause issues with start-ups.
5. Drain the oil. Once the oil is drained, rinse it out with an ounce of gasoline. After that, you can refill the reservoir with the correct oil for your equipment.
6. Clean the cooling fins. These can be cleaned with cotton swabs and appropriate solvent.
7. Clean the exterior. You’ll need to remove the nuts and bolts to get a thorough cleaning of each part.
How to Put Chain on Husqvarna Chainsaw?
To replace a chainsaw chain, you’ll first need to remove the old one by releasing the chain tension. After that, you should loosen the tensioning screw and thread the new chain onto the saw’s teeth. Then, align the guide bar and replace the side plate of your equipment.
Once you do that, tighten the equipment to your desired tension and finish tightening the nuts of the side plate.
How to Measure a Husqvarna Chainsaw Bar?
You should measure the chainsaw bar by measuring from the front tip to the cutter that is located the closest to the saw’s body. This measurement should then be rounded up to the closest even number.
Final Thoughts
Regardless of how well-loved the Husqvarna brand is, it isn’t immune to running into issues. However, as long as you regularly provide maintenance and are in tune with how the chainsaw feels in use, you shouldn’t have much difficulty fixing these problems when they arise.
We hope this article has been helpful for you and you have a better idea of the possible problems a Husqvarna chainsaw can run into.
Jamie is the founder of The Backyard Pros. When he was 15 years old he started working at a garden centre helping people buy plants, gardening products, and lawn care products. He has real estate experience and he is a home owner. Jamie loves backyard projects, refinishing furniture, and enjoys sharing his knowledge online.