Husqvarna 316e Electric Chainsaw Manual

The Husqvarna 316e is a lightweight, battery-powered electric chainsaw designed for homeowners. It features a brushless motor, 12-inch Oregon bar and chain, tool-free chain tensioning, an inertia-activated chain brake, low noise operation, and is part of the Husqvarna battery system (compatible with 36V batteries). Below are key sections for safety, features, assembly, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

1. Features at a Glance 2. Safety Instructions 3. Assembly & First Use 4. Specifications 5. Controls and Components 6. Operation 7. Maintenance 8. Chain Care & Sharpening 9. Storage 10. Regulatory Information 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: Brushless motor, 12-inch Oregon bar and chain, Battery compartment, Front handguard with chain brake, Oil tank, Chain tensioning wheel, On/Off switch, Battery charge indicator.

FeatureDescription
Motor TypeBrushless electric motor for efficiency and longevity
Bar & Chain12-inch Oregon guide bar and low-kickback chain
Power Source36V Husqvarna battery system (sold separately)
Chain BrakeInertia-activated for safety
Chain TensioningTool-free adjustment via side wheel
Weight (without battery)Approximately 6.6 lbs (3.0 kg)
Sound LevelLow noise operation compared to gas models
Oil SystemAutomatic chain oiling with manual override
Battery IndicatorLED lights on battery show charge level
Warranty2-year consumer warranty

Safety Instructions

Read all instructions before use. Always wear protective equipment.

  1. Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): Always wear safety glasses, hearing protection, gloves, chainsaw chaps/pants, and sturdy boots.
  2. Work Area Safety: Keep bystanders and pets at least 15 feet away. Ensure secure footing.
  3. Electrical Safety: Do not use in rain or wet conditions. Keep battery dry.
  4. Kickback Awareness: Understand kickback zones (upper quadrant of bar nose). Hold saw firmly with both hands.
  5. Chain Brake Test: Test chain brake function before each use by engaging it with the front handguard.

WARNING! Failure to follow safety instructions can result in serious injury or death. Never operate a chainsaw while tired or under the influence.

Assembly & First Use

Unpack and inspect contents. Assemble bar, chain, and battery.

  1. Attach the Guide Bar and Chain: Loosen the bar nuts. Place the chain on the bar with cutting teeth facing forward. Fit the bar onto the saw's studs, ensuring the chain is correctly seated on the sprocket. Hand-tighten nuts.
  2. Tension the Chain: Use the tool-free tensioning wheel on the side. Lift the bar tip up and turn the wheel until the chain is snug against the bar but can still be pulled around by hand. Tighten the bar nuts fully.
  3. Fill Chain Oil: Use only Husqvarna biodegradable chain oil or a quality equivalent. Fill the oil tank through the cap. Check for leaks.
  4. Insert Battery: Slide a fully charged Husqvarna 36V battery into the compartment until it clicks. Press the battery release button to remove.
  5. Initial Test: In a safe area, hold the saw firmly, press the safety trigger and then the On/Off switch. The chain should not move unless the throttle is engaged. Test the chain brake.

CAUTION! Ensure chain is properly tensioned before each use. A loose chain can derail; an overtightened chain can damage the bar and motor.

Specifications

Controls and Components

Access controls on the main body and handle.

Main Body: Battery compartment/release, Oil tank cap, Chain tensioning wheel, Bar nuts.

Handle Area: On/Off switch (with safety lock), Throttle trigger, Front handguard/chain brake, Rear hand guard.

Battery: LED charge indicator (press button to show level), Release button.

Chain Brake: Engages automatically via inertia or manually by pushing the front handguard forward.

Operation

Starting, cutting techniques, and stopping.

  1. Starting: Insert charged battery. Hold saw firmly on ground. Press the safety lock and then the On/Off switch. The saw is now in standby. Squeeze the throttle trigger to start the chain.
  2. Basic Cutting: Use the full length of the bar. Let the chain do the work; do not force it. For felling, notch and back cut according to standard procedures.
  3. Kickback Prevention: Do not cut with the nose of the bar. Be aware of wood tension and binding. Always maintain a firm grip.
  4. Chain Oiling: The saw has an automatic oiler. Check oil level frequently. For heavy cutting, use the manual oiler button (if equipped) for extra lubrication.
  5. Stopping: Release the throttle trigger. The chain will stop. Press the On/Off switch to turn the power off completely. Engage the chain brake for storage/transport.

Tip: Plan your cuts. Clear debris from the cutting path. Take breaks to avoid fatigue.

Maintenance

Regular maintenance ensures performance and safety.

  1. Daily/Pre-Use: Check chain tension and adjust if necessary. Check chain sharpness. Fill chain oil tank. Inspect bar for wear/damage. Clean air intake vents (if any). Test chain brake function.
  2. Weekly/After 5 Hours: Clean the entire saw, especially the bar groove and oil holes. Check bar nuts for tightness. Inspect the power cord/battery contacts for damage.
  3. Monthly/Seasonal: Check and clean the sprocket at the bar tip. Lubricate the sprocket bearing with light grease. Inspect the drive sprocket inside the saw body for wear.
  4. Bar Maintenance: Flip the bar periodically to ensure even wear. File down any burrs on the bar edges. Ensure the oil hole is clear.

WARNING! Always remove the battery before performing any maintenance. Ensure the saw is completely powered off.

Chain Care & Sharpening

A sharp chain is safer and more efficient.

  1. Signs of Dullness: Produces fine sawdust instead of chips, requires pushing, cuts crooked.
  2. Sharpening Tools: Use a round file matching the chain pitch (typically 4.0mm or 5/32" for 3/8" LP). Use a file guide for consistent angle (usually 30°). A depth gauge tool is also needed.
  3. Sharpening Process: Secure the bar. File each cutter from the inside out, using smooth strokes. Maintain the original filing angle. File all cutters to the same length. After sharpening, lower the depth gauges (rakers) with the depth gauge tool.
  4. Replacement: Replace the chain when cutters are significantly shortened, damaged, or after multiple sharpenings. Always replace with an Oregon 91PX or Husqvarna equivalent chain.

CAUTION! Wear heavy gloves when handling the chain. A sharp chain is extremely dangerous.

Storage

Proper storage prolongs life.

  1. Clean the saw thoroughly of sap and debris.
  2. Remove the battery and store it separately in a cool, dry place (ideally at 50% charge).
  3. Drain the chain oil tank or fill it completely to prevent moisture buildup.
  4. Loosen the chain tension slightly to relieve pressure on the bar.
  5. Store the saw in a dry, locked location out of reach of children.

CAUTION! Do not store the battery in extreme heat or cold. Do not store the saw with a charged battery installed for long periods.

Regulatory Information

This product complies with relevant safety and EMC directives. The brushless motor contains a permanent magnet. Dispose of the product, battery, and chain oil according to local environmental regulations. Copyright © 2023 Husqvarna AB. Husqvarna is a registered trademark. For support, genuine parts, and accessories, visit www.husqvarna.com or contact your local Husqvarna dealer.

Troubleshooting

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
Saw does not startDead battery, safety lock not pressed, switch faultCharge or replace battery. Ensure safety lock is pressed before switch. Check for obstructions in switch.
Chain does not move when throttle pressedChain brake engaged, loose chain, motor issueDisengage chain brake by pulling handguard back. Check chain tension. Contact service if motor is silent.
Chain falls off barLoose chain tension, worn bar, damaged drive linksRetension chain properly. Inspect bar for wear and replace if grove is widened. Check chain for damage.
Poor cutting performanceDull chain, insufficient chain oil, low batterySharpen or replace chain. Fill oil tank. Ensure battery is fully charged.
Excessive vibration or noiseLoose components, damaged chain, worn sprocketTighten all nuts and bolts. Inspect chain for damaged or uneven cutters. Check sprocket for wear.
Chain oil not dispensingEmpty oil tank, clogged oil hole, faulty oil pumpFill tank. Clean oil holes on bar and saw. For pump issues, contact authorized service.
Battery not chargingFaulty charger, dirty contacts, battery defectTry different outlet/charger. Clean battery and charger contacts with dry cloth. Battery may need replacement.

Reset: Some electronic faults may be reset by removing the battery for 2 minutes and reinserting.

Service: For repairs not covered in this manual, contact an authorized Husqvarna service dealer. Do not attempt to open the motor housing.

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