Husqvarna 325 Chainsaw Manual

The Husqvarna 325 is a professional-grade chainsaw designed for demanding forestry and tree care work. It features a powerful X-Torq engine for reduced emissions and fuel consumption, an inertia-activated chain brake for safety, combined choke/stop control for easy starting, and an ergonomic design with low vibration. 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: X-Torq engine, inertia-activated chain brake, combined choke/stop control, side-mounted chain tensioner, ergonomic handles with anti-vibration system.

FeatureDescription
X-Torq EngineReduces exhaust emissions and fuel consumption
Inertia-Activated Chain BrakeAutomatically engages in case of kickback
Combined Choke/Stop ControlSimplifies starting procedure
Side-Mounted Chain TensionerAllows easy chain adjustment without tools
Air InjectionCentrifugal air cleaning system for longer filter life
LowVib Anti-VibrationReduces operator fatigue
Quick-Release Air FilterFor easy maintenance and cleaning
Fuel PumpPrimer bulb for easy starting
Throttle LockoutPrevents accidental throttle engagement
Right-Hand GuardProtects from rear hand injuries

Assembly & Preparation

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

  1. Attach guide bar and chain: Place bar on mounting studs, fit chain, tighten bar nuts finger-tight.
  2. Adjust chain tension: Use side tensioner to achieve proper tension (check manual for specs).
  3. Fill with fuel: Use fresh, high-quality gasoline mixed with 2-stroke oil (50:1 ratio).
  4. Fill chain oil: Use recommended bar and chain oil in separate tank.

WARNING! Always wear protective gear (gloves, eye protection, hearing protection, chainsaw chaps, helmet) during assembly and operation. Ensure chain brake is engaged when not cutting.

First-Time Operation

Perform pre-start checks before first use.

  1. Check chain tension: Chain should be snug against bar but pull freely.
  2. Check chain sharpness: Ensure chain is properly sharpened.
  3. Start the saw: Place on ground, engage chain brake, set choke, pull starter cord until engine fires, then disengage choke and pull again.
  4. Warm up: Allow engine to idle for 30 seconds before cutting.

CAUTION! Never start the saw unless bar and chain are properly assembled and chain brake is engaged. Keep bystanders at least 15 feet away.

Specifications

Controls and Functions

Main controls located on top and rear handle.

Front Handle: Throttle trigger, throttle lockout, front hand guard.

Top Handle: Combined choke/stop control, primer bulb, ignition switch.

Right Side: Chain brake lever, chain tensioner, oil filler cap.

Left Side: Fuel filler cap, air filter cover, decompression valve (if equipped).

Chain Brake: Manual engagement by pushing forward; inertia-activated during kickback.

Safe Operation Procedures

Always follow safe cutting practices to prevent injury.

  1. Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): Always wear helmet, eye protection, hearing protection, gloves, chainsaw chaps, and steel-toed boots.
  2. Clear work area: Remove tripping hazards and ensure safe escape path.
  3. Proper stance: Stand with feet shoulder-width apart, left foot slightly forward.
  4. Cutting techniques: Use lower quadrant of bar; avoid tip contact to prevent kickback.
  5. Refueling: Stop engine and allow to cool before refueling.

Tip: Never operate chainsaw above shoulder height or with one hand.

Maintenance Schedule

Regular maintenance ensures optimal performance and longevity.

  1. Daily: Check chain tension and sharpness, clean air filter, check bar and chain oil level.
  2. Weekly: Clean cooling fins, check spark plug, clean fuel filter.
  3. Monthly: Clean carburetor air intake, check all nuts and bolts for tightness.
  4. Seasonally: Replace spark plug, clean exhaust port and screen, inspect anti-vibration elements.
  5. Annually: Professional servicing recommended.

WARNING! Always disconnect spark plug wire before performing maintenance. Use only genuine Husqvarna replacement parts.

Chain & Bar Care

Proper chain and bar maintenance is critical for safe operation.

  1. Sharpening: Use correct file size (typically 5/32" or 3/16") and maintain proper filing angle (typically 30°).
  2. Depth gauges: File depth gauges to proper height (0.025" below cutter tip).
  3. Bar maintenance: Clean bar groove regularly, flip bar weekly for even wear.
  4. Lubrication: Always use recommended bar and chain oil; adjust oil flow according to conditions.

CAUTION! A dull chain increases kickback risk and operator fatigue. Replace chain when cutters are worn beyond repair.

Storage Guidelines

Proper storage prevents fuel system issues and corrosion.

  1. Short-term (under 30 days): Empty fuel tank or add fuel stabilizer.
  2. Long-term: Empty fuel tank completely, run engine until it stops. Remove chain and bar, clean and oil them. Store in dry place.
  3. Battery (if electric start): Remove battery and store in cool, dry place.

CAUTION! Never store chainsaw with fuel in tank for extended periods without stabilizer. Store out of reach of children.

Regulatory Information

EPA and CARB compliant: Meets emission standards for handheld engines. EU Directive 2000/14/EC: Sound power level 116 dB(A). This product contains chemicals known to cause cancer and reproductive harm (California Proposition 65). For support, visit www.husqvarna.com or contact 1-800-487-5962.

Troubleshooting

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
Engine won't startFuel issues, spark plug, flooded engineCheck fuel mix, clean spark plug, use choke properly, wait if flooded.
Engine runs poorlyDirty air filter, carburetor adjustmentClean/replace air filter, adjust carburetor (H/L screws).
Chain doesn't turnBrake engaged, clutch issuesDisengage chain brake, check clutch springs and drum.
Excessive vibrationLoose parts, unbalanced chainTighten all nuts/bolts, balance chain, check anti-vibration mounts.
Chain throws oilOil flow too highAdjust oil pump to lower setting.
Chain dulls quicklyHitting ground, dirty woodAvoid ground contact, clean wood before cutting, proper filing technique.

Reset: For electronic ignition models, disconnect spark plug for 30 seconds to reset system.

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

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