55 Husqvarna Chainsaw Manual

The Husqvarna 55 is a professional-grade chainsaw featuring a 55cc engine, automatic chain oiling, inertia-activated chain brake, anti-vibration system, air injection filtration, and quick-release air filter. Designed for demanding cutting tasks, it includes safety features like low kickback guide bar and chain, throttle lockout, and right-hand guard. Below are key sections for safety, features, assembly, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

1. Features at a Glance 2. Assembly & Preparation 3. First-Time Operation 4. Specifications 5. Controls and Functions 6. Safe Operation Procedures 7. Maintenance Schedule 8. Chain & Bar Care 9. Storage Guidelines 10. Regulatory Information 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: 55cc X-Torq engine, 16-20 inch guide bar, automatic chain oiler, inertia chain brake, anti-vibration handles, air injection system, quick-release air filter, combined choke/stop control.

FeatureDescription
Engine55cc X-Torq engine for reduced emissions and fuel consumption
Guide Bar16-20 inch Oregon-style bar (standard 18")
Chain BrakeInertia-activated for kickback protection
Chain OilerAutomatic with manual override adjustment
Air FiltrationAir injection centrifugal cleaning system
Anti-VibrationLow-vibration handles for reduced fatigue
StarterEasy-start decompression valve
Safety FeaturesThrottle lockout, right-hand guard, chain catcher
Weight6.6 kg (14.5 lbs) without bar and chain
Fuel Tank0.75 liter capacity

Assembly & Preparation

Unpack and inspect contents. Assemble on clean, flat surface.

  1. Attach guide bar and chain: Place bar on mounting studs, fit chain with drive links in bar groove, tension properly.
  2. Fill fuel: Use 50:1 gasoline/oil mixture (Husqvarna XP+ or equivalent).
  3. Fill chain oil: Use quality bar and chain oil (not waste oil).
  4. Check controls: Ensure throttle trigger, lockout, and stop switch function properly.

WARNING! Always wear protective gear: helmet, gloves, eye protection, hearing protection, chainsaw chaps, and steel-toe boots.

First-Time Operation

Start chainsaw following proper procedure.

  1. Cold start: Set chain brake engaged, press decompression valve, set choke to full, pull starter cord until engine fires.
  2. Warm start: Set throttle lock, pull starter cord without choke.
  3. Chain brake test: Verify brake engages when front hand guard pushed forward.
  4. Adjust chain tension: Chain should snap back when pulled from bar; adjust tensioning screw.

CAUTION! Never start chainsaw on ground or with chain touching any object. Maintain secure footing.

Specifications

Controls and Functions

Main controls: Throttle trigger, throttle lockout, stop switch, choke control, decompression valve, chain brake, chain tensioner.

Right Side: Throttle trigger with lockout, front hand guard (chain brake), choke/stop lever. Left Side: Chain tensioning screw, oil pump adjustment, air filter cover. Top: Spark plug, fuel cap, decompression valve.

Chain Brake: Engages automatically during kickback or manually via hand guard. Chain Oiler: Automatic with adjustable screw (clockwise increases oil flow). Air Filter: Quick-release cover for easy cleaning.

Safe Operation Procedures

Always follow safety guidelines to prevent injury.

  1. Pre-cut inspection: Check chain sharpness, tension, and lubrication.
  2. Starting position: Place on ground, foot in rear handle, pull starter cord upward.
  3. Cutting techniques: Use full throttle, avoid tip contact (kickback zone).
  4. Refueling: Stop engine, allow to cool, clean area around fuel cap.

Tip: Plan escape path before cutting. Never cut above shoulder height.

Maintenance Schedule

Regular maintenance ensures optimal performance and safety.

  1. Daily: Clean air filter, check chain sharpness and tension, inspect bar for wear.
  2. Weekly: Clean cooling fins, check spark plug gap (0.5 mm), clean fuel filter.
  3. Monthly: Clean carburetor air intake, check anti-vibration elements, lubricate clutch bearing.
  4. Seasonally: Replace fuel filter, inspect clutch and sprocket, check all screws and bolts.

WARNING! Always disconnect spark plug wire before performing maintenance.

Chain & Bar Care

Proper chain and bar maintenance extends life and improves cutting.

Chain Sharpening: Use 7/32" round file at 30° angle, maintain equal tooth length. Bar Maintenance: Clean bar groove weekly, flip bar monthly for even wear, file down burrs. Chain Tension: Adjust when chain sags (cool chain), should snap back when pulled.

Storage Guidelines

Prepare chainsaw properly for storage to prevent damage.

  1. Empty fuel tank or add fuel stabilizer.
  2. Run engine dry of carburetor fuel.
  3. Clean entire saw, remove sawdust from cooling fins.
  4. Remove chain, clean and soak in oil; store bar flat.
  5. Store in dry, cool place away from ignition sources.

CAUTION! Never store with fuel in tank for more than 30 days without stabilizer.

Regulatory Information

EPA Certified: Meets emission standards. ANSI B175.1: Compliant with safety standards. EU Directive 2006/42/EC: Machinery directive compliant. Contains parts that may be hot during/after operation. For support, visit www.husqvarna.com or contact 1-800-487-5962.

Troubleshooting

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
Engine won't startFuel, spark, airCheck fuel mixture, spark plug gap, clean air filter, use decompression valve.
Engine runs poorlyCarburetor, filterClean carburetor, replace fuel filter, adjust idle screw.
Chain doesn't oilOil pump, tankCheck oil level, clean oil holes in bar, adjust oil pump screw.
Chain comes off barTension, grooveAdjust chain tension, check bar groove for wear, replace if worn.
Excessive vibrationMounts, balanceCheck anti-vibration mounts, ensure chain is balanced and sharp.
Chain brake not workingMechanism dirtyClean brake band and mechanism, check spring tension.

Reset: Allow engine to cool completely before troubleshooting hot-start issues.

Service: 1-800-487-5962; www.husqvarna.com

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