Husqvarna 240 Chainsaw Operators Manual

The Husqvarna 240 is a lightweight, gasoline-powered chainsaw designed for homeowners and occasional users. It features a 40.9cc X-Torq engine for reduced emissions, an inertia-activated chain brake for safety, LowVib anti-vibration system, combined choke/stop control, air injection centrifugal air cleaning, and an ergonomic design. 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 9. Chain & Bar Care 10. Storage 11. Safety Symbols & Warnings 12. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: X-Torq engine, Inertia-activated chain brake, Combined choke/stop control, Air Injection, LowVib system, Side-mounted chain tensioner, Quick-release air filter.

FeatureDescription
X-Torq EngineReduces fuel consumption and exhaust emissions
Inertia-Activated Chain BrakeStops the chain instantly in case of kickback
Combined Choke/Stop ControlSimplifies starting and stopping the engine
Air InjectionCentrifugal air cleaning system for longer filter life
LowVib SystemReduces vibration for less user fatigue
Side-Mounted Chain TensionerEasy chain adjustment without tools
Quick-Release Air FilterAllows for fast cleaning and maintenance
Ergonomic HandleDesigned for comfort and control
Transparent Fuel TankEasy fuel level monitoring
Chain CatcherSafety feature to catch a broken chain

Assembly & Preparation

Unpack and inspect all contents. Assemble on a clean, stable surface.

  1. Attach the guide bar and chain: Place bar on studs, fit chain, tighten bar nuts finger-tight.
  2. Tension the chain: Use side-mounted tensioner to achieve proper tension (check manual).
  3. Fill with fuel: Use fresh gasoline mixed with 2-stroke oil (50:1 ratio for Husqvarna XP oil).
  4. Fill chain oil tank: Use recommended bar and chain oil.
  5. Check all fasteners: Ensure all nuts and bolts are secure.

WARNING! Always wear protective equipment (gloves, eye protection, hearing protection, chainsaw chaps, steel-toed boots) during assembly and operation.

First-Time Operation

Perform a safety check before starting the engine.

  1. Check chain brake: Ensure it disengages and engages properly.
  2. Check throttle trigger lockout: Must be depressed before throttle can be engaged.
  3. Cold start: Set master control lever to choke position, pull starter cord until engine fires, move lever to run position, pull to start.
  4. Warm start: Set master control lever to run position and pull starter cord.
  5. Test chain brake: With engine at idle, activate brake by pushing front hand guard forward.

CAUTION! Never start the chainsaw unless the chain brake is disengaged and you are in a clear, stable position.

Specifications

Controls and Functions

Master Control Lever: Combines choke, start, run, and stop functions. Throttle Trigger: Controls engine speed. Throttle Trigger Lockout: Must be pressed to access throttle. Chain Brake/Hand Guard: Manually activated or inertia-activated. Stop Switch: For stopping engine. Side-Mounted Chain Tensioner: Adjusts chain tension. Primer Bulb (if equipped): For easier cold starts.

Maintenance Controls: Quick-release air filter cover, Spark arrestor screen, Chain catcher.

Safe Operation Procedures

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) is mandatory. Plan your work and escape path.

  1. Clear work area of obstacles and bystanders.
  2. Hold chainsaw firmly with both hands, right hand on rear handle, left on front.
  3. Stand with feet shoulder-width apart for balance.
  4. Do not cut above shoulder height.
  5. Be aware of kickback zone (upper quadrant of guide bar tip).
  6. Never operate with one hand.
  7. Shut off engine before carrying or adjusting.

Tip: Let the chain do the work; do not force the saw. Maintain a sharp chain.

Maintenance Schedule

Daily or before each use:

  1. Check chain tension and sharpness.
  2. Check chain brake function.
  3. Check throttle trigger lockout function.
  4. Check for loose nuts and bolts.
  5. Clean air filter (more often in dusty conditions).
  6. Check fuel and oil levels.

Weekly or every 10 hours:

  1. Clean cooling fins on cylinder.
  2. Clean spark arrestor screen in muffler (if equipped).
  3. Check starter cord and rewind spring.
  4. Inspect guide bar for wear and clean bar groove.

WARNING! Always disconnect the spark plug wire before performing any maintenance beyond basic cleaning.

Chain & Bar Care

Proper chain tension is critical. A loose chain can derail; a tight chain can break.

  1. Tension chain when cold: Should be snug against bar but pull freely by hand.
  2. Re-tension after warming up: Chain expands; check and adjust again.
  3. Sharpen chain regularly: Use correct round file size and guide. Maintain correct filing angles.
  4. Rotate bar: Flip bar over periodically for even wear.
  5. Lubricate bar groove and sprocket nose.

CAUTION! Always wear heavy gloves when handling the chain. A dull chain increases the risk of kickback.

Storage

For storage longer than 30 days:

  1. Drain all fuel from tank and carburetor. Run engine until it stops.
  2. Remove chain, clean, and soak in oil. Clean guide bar and coat with oil.
  3. Clean entire saw, especially cooling fins and air filter.
  4. Store in a dry, locked place, out of reach of children.

CAUTION! Gasoline left in the carburetor can form varnish and clog fuel passages.

Safety Symbols & Warnings

Understand the warning labels on your chainsaw.

Troubleshooting

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
Engine will not startNo spark, old fuel, flooded engine, clogged filterCheck spark plug; use fresh fuel mix; wait if flooded; clean air filter.
Engine starts but diesClogged fuel filter, carburetor issues, vent blockedReplace fuel filter; clean carburetor; check tank vent.
Chain does not turnClutch worn, drive sprocket worn, chain brake engagedInspect clutch and sprocket; disengage chain brake.
Excessive vibrationLoose components, unbalanced chain, damaged AV mountsTighten all fasteners; balance chain; check anti-vibration mounts.
Chain throws oilOil hole clogged, wrong oil viscosity, pump setting too highClean oil holes; use correct oil; adjust oil pump (if adjustable).
Poor cutting performanceDull chain, incorrect filing, low chain speedSharpen chain correctly; ensure engine reaches full RPM under load.

Service: For repairs beyond basic maintenance, contact an authorized Husqvarna service dealer.

Support: 1-800-487-5962; www.husqvarna.com/us

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