Homelite 550 Chainsaw Manual

The Homelite 550 is a gasoline-powered chainsaw designed for general-purpose cutting, pruning, and limbing tasks. It features a 2-stroke engine, automatic oiling system, anti-vibration handles, chain brake, and a 16-inch guide bar. Below are key sections for safety, features, assembly, operation, maintenance, troubleshooting, and specifications.

Features at a Glance

Key components: 2-stroke gasoline engine, 16-inch guide bar, automatic chain oiler, chain brake, anti-vibration system, throttle lockout, and primer bulb.

Safety Warnings

Always read and understand the manual before operation. Wear appropriate PPE.

1. Wear safety gear: Eye protection, hearing protection, gloves, chainsaw chaps, and sturdy boots.
2. Clear work area: Ensure no bystanders, especially children or pets, are within 15 feet.
3. Inspect chainsaw: Check for loose parts, chain tension, and damage before each use.
4. Proper fueling: Use fresh fuel mix (50:1 gasoline to 2-stroke oil); never fuel while engine is hot.

WARNING! Chainsaws are dangerous. Kickback can cause severe injury. Always hold with both hands, maintain secure footing, and never operate above shoulder height.

Assembly & Preparation

Unpack and inspect all parts. Assemble guide bar and chain.

1. Attach guide bar: Remove side cover, place bar over studs, align chain drive links with sprocket.
2. Install chain: Ensure cutting teeth face forward on top of bar. Adjust tension.
3. Fill oil tank: Use bar and chain oil only. Check for leaks.
4. Prepare fuel mix: Use 89 octane gasoline and 2-stroke oil at 50:1 ratio. Shake well.
5. Prime engine: Press primer bulb 5-7 times until fuel is visible.

CAUTION! Ensure chain brake is disengaged (pulled back toward front handle) before starting.

Specifications

• Model: Homelite 550
• Engine: 55cc 2-stroke
• Power Output: 2.8 HP
• Max RPM: 13,500
• Fuel Mix Ratio: 50:1 (gasoline to 2-stroke oil)
• Bar Length Options: 14", 16", 18"
• Chain Speed: Approx. 55 ft/sec at max RPM
• Sound Pressure Level: 105 dB(A) at operator's ear
• Vibration Level: Front handle: 4.5 m/s²; Rear handle: 5.2 m/s²
• Warranty: 2-year limited warranty

Controls and Components

Main components: Front handle with chain brake, rear handle with throttle trigger, throttle lockout, choke lever, primer bulb, stop switch, and decompression valve (if equipped).

Controls: STOP switch (O=Run, I=Stop), CHOKE lever (cold start), THROTTLE TRIGGER with lockout, CHAIN BRAKE lever (forward to engage, back to disengage), PRIMER BULB, and DECOMPRESSION BUTTON (for easier starting).

Maintenance points: Air filter cover, spark plug, chain tensioner, oil filler cap, fuel filler cap, and bar mounting nuts.

Starting & Operating

Starting procedure (cold engine):

1. Place on clear, level ground. Engage chain brake.
2. Set STOP switch to "O" (Run).
3. Pull CHOKE lever fully out.
4. Press PRIMER BULB 5-7 times.
5. Hold front handle with left hand, place right foot in rear handle.
6. Pull starter rope briskly until engine fires (usually 3-5 pulls).
7. Push CHOKE lever halfway in. Pull starter again until engine runs.
8. Disengage chain brake. Squeeze throttle to warm up for 30 seconds.

Cutting Tips: Plan escape path. Let chain do the work; don't force. Avoid cutting with tip to prevent kickback.

Chain & Bar Maintenance

Regular maintenance ensures optimal performance and safety.

1. Chain tension: Check when cold. Adjust so chain snaps back when pulled from bar.
2. Sharpening: Use round file matching chain pitch (usually 5/32"). File at 30° angle.
3. Bar maintenance: Clean bar groove weekly. Flip bar monthly for even wear.
4. Oiling: Check oil flow by running at idle over light surface; look for oil line.
5. Sprocket: Inspect for wear; replace if teeth are hooked or worn.

WARNING! Always wear heavy gloves when handling chain. Ensure engine is off and cool.

Engine Maintenance

Air filter: Clean every 5 hours of use. Replace if damaged.

Spark plug: Check gap (0.025 inch) every 10 hours. Replace annually.

Fuel filter: Replace every season or if clogged.

Carburetor adjustment: Factory set; only adjust if necessary using H (high) and L (low) screws.

CAUTION! Never run engine without air filter. Use only recommended fuel mix.

Storage

For storage over 30 days:

1. Drain fuel tank and run engine until it stops to clear carburetor.
2. Remove chain, clean, and soak in oil. Store bar clean and oiled.
3. Clean entire saw, especially cooling fins and air filter.
4. Store in dry, cool place, away from ignition sources.

Tip: Use fuel stabilizer if you cannot drain fuel completely.

Warranty Information

Homelite 550 is covered by a 2-year limited warranty for residential use. Warranty does not cover commercial use, neglect, improper fuel, or unauthorized repairs. For warranty service, contact Homelite customer service with proof of purchase. Keep this manual for reference.

Troubleshooting

Service: For technical support, call 1-800-242-4672 or visit www.homelite.com.