Homelite 360 Chainsaw Repair Manual

The Homelite 360 is a professional-grade chainsaw featuring a 36cc 2-stroke engine, 16-inch guide bar, automatic oiler, and anti-vibration system. This manual provides comprehensive repair, maintenance, and troubleshooting guidance for owners and technicians. Below are key sections covering safety, specifications, disassembly, engine repair, fuel system, ignition, lubrication, troubleshooting, and parts diagrams.

Safety Precautions

Always prioritize safety when repairing chainsaws. Key components: Chain brake, throttle lockout, rear hand guard, spark arrestor muffler.

Specifications

Technical specifications for Homelite 360 chainsaw.

• Engine Type: 36cc 2-stroke, air-cooled.
• Power Output: 2.1 HP at 9,500 RPM.
• Fuel Capacity: 14.9 oz (440 ml).
• Oil Capacity: 8.5 oz (250 ml).
• Guide Bar Length: 16 inches (40 cm).
• Chain Pitch: 3/8 inch.
• Chain Gauge: 0.050 inch.
• Dry Weight: 10.8 lbs (4.9 kg).
• Ignition System: Electronic CDI.
• Carburetor: Zama C1Q diaphragm type.
• Spark Plug: Champion RCJ7Y or equivalent.

Tools Required

Essential tools for repair and maintenance.

1. Socket set (8mm-13mm).
2. Torx screwdrivers (T15-T27).
3. Chain breaker and spinner.
4. Compression tester (100-200 PSI range).
5. Spark plug gap tool.
6. Feeler gauges (0.010-0.030 inch).
7. Carburetor adjustment tool.
8. Piston stop tool.
9. Flywheel puller.
10. Clutch removal tool.

WARNING! Use proper safety equipment: gloves, eye protection, and work in well-ventilated area.

Disassembly Procedure

Step-by-step disassembly guide.

1. Remove bar and chain: Loosen bar nuts, remove clutch cover.
2. Drain fuel and oil: Use fuel line clamp to prevent spills.
3. Remove top cover: Remove 4 Torx screws.
4. Remove starter assembly: Note spring orientation.
5. Remove carburetor and air filter: Disconnect fuel lines.
6. Remove cylinder cover: 6 mounting screws.
7. Remove muffler: 2 bolts, check gasket condition.
8. Remove clutch: Use clutch removal tool (left-hand threads).
9. Remove flywheel: Use puller, note keyway alignment.
10. Separate crankcase halves: Mark alignment before separation.

CAUTION! Take photos during disassembly for reassembly reference.

Engine Repair

Cylinder, piston, crankshaft, and bearing service.

Cylinder Inspection: Check for scoring, transfer, or cracks. Honing procedure for light scoring. Replacement if damage exceeds 0.004 inch.

Piston & Rings: Measure ring end gap (0.010-0.020 inch). Piston clearance: 0.002-0.003 inch. Replace if worn beyond specifications.

Crankshaft: Check runout (max 0.002 inch). Inspect connecting rod for play. Replace crankcase seals during reassembly.

Bearings: Check main bearings for smooth rotation. Replace if rough or noisy.

Fuel System

Carburetor repair and fuel line replacement.

1. Remove carburetor: Disconnect throttle linkage and fuel lines.
2. Disassemble carburetor: Remove diaphragm, gaskets, check valve.
3. Clean: Use carburetor cleaner, compressed air.
4. Adjust: Initial settings - L: 1-1/4 turns, H: 1 turn from lightly seated.
5. Fuel lines: Replace if cracked or hardened.
6. Fuel filter: Replace annually or when clogged.

Tip: Use pressure/vacuum tester to check carburetor function.

Ignition System

Spark testing and coil replacement.

1. Check spark: Remove plug, ground to cylinder, pull starter.
2. Spark gap: Should jump 1/4 inch gap.
3. Coil air gap: 0.010-0.012 inch between coil legs and flywheel.
4. Resistance test: Primary 0.5-1.5Ω, Secondary 5-15kΩ.
5. Switch continuity: Should show open circuit when off.
6. Flywheel magnets: Check for damage or demagnetization.

WARNING! High voltage present. Handle ignition components carefully.

Chain & Bar Maintenance

Chain sharpening, bar maintenance, and tension adjustment.

1. Chain sharpening: Use round file matching chain pitch (5/32 inch).
2. Filing angle: 30 degrees for cross-cutting, 10 degrees for top plate.
3. Depth gauges: File to 0.025 inch below cutter.
4. Bar maintenance: Clean groove, flip bar monthly for even wear.
5. Tension adjustment: Chain should snap back when lifted from bar.
6. Sprocket inspection: Replace if worn or damaged.

CAUTION! Always wear cut-resistant gloves when handling chain.

Lubrication System

Automatic oiler repair and adjustment.

Oil pump inspection: Remove pump cover, check diaphragm and plunger. Oil passage cleaning: Use compressed air to clear passages. Flow adjustment: Turn screw clockwise to increase flow. Oil filter screen: Clean during maintenance. Check oil lines: Replace if cracked or leaking.

Reassembly Guide

Reverse of disassembly with torque specifications.

Tip: Use thread locker on critical fasteners. Test run without bar/chain first.

Troubleshooting

Reset: After repairs, reset carburetor to factory settings.

Service: For genuine parts, contact Homelite at 1-800-242-4672 or visit www.homelite.com

Parts Diagrams

Reference diagrams for major assemblies.

• Figure 1: Engine assembly (crankshaft, piston, cylinder)
• Figure 2: Fuel system (carburetor, lines, tank)
• Figure 3: Ignition system (coil, flywheel, switch)
• Figure 4: Chain brake assembly
• Figure 5: Oil pump system
• Figure 6: Clutch and sprocket assembly
• Figure 7: Anti-vibration mounts
• Figure 8: Complete exploded view

Note: Diagrams available in separate PDF or from authorized dealers.