Husqvarna 338XPT Chainsaw Manual

The Husqvarna 338XPT is a professional-grade, top-handle chainsaw designed for arborists and tree care professionals. It features a lightweight yet powerful X-Torq engine for reduced emissions and fuel consumption, a heated carburetor for reliable cold-weather starts, an inertia-activated chain brake, and an ergonomic design for one-handed operation in elevated positions. Below are key sections for safety, features, assembly, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

Features at a Glance

Key components: X-Torq engine, Top-Handle design, Heated carburetor, Inertia-activated chain brake, Combined choke/stop control, Side-mounted chain tensioner, Quick-release air filter cover.

Safety Information

Read and understand all instructions before use. Always wear appropriate Personal Protective Equipment (PPE).

1. PPE Required: Safety helmet with face shield and hearing protection, chainsaw protective gloves, cut-resistant leg protection (chaps or pants), sturdy boots with non-slip soles.
2. Work Area Safety: Keep bystanders and animals at least 15 meters away. Ensure secure footing. Never operate in a tree unless trained and equipped for climbing.
3. Kickback Zone: Be aware of the upper quadrant of the guide bar tip. Avoid contact with this area during cutting.
4. Fuel Safety: Refuel outdoors, with engine stopped and cool. Use clean, fresh fuel mix (Husqvarna XP or equivalent).

WARNING! Chainsaws are dangerous tools. Improper use can cause serious injury or death. Never operate when fatigued or under the influence of drugs or alcohol.

Assembly & Preparation

Unpack and inspect contents. Assemble the guide bar and chain.

1. Attach the guide bar: Remove the side cover nuts. Place the bar over the studs, ensuring the chain tensioning pin engages the hole in the bar.
2. Fit the chain: Place the chain over the bar sprocket and onto the guide bar rails, with cutting teeth facing forward on the top of the bar.
3. Replace the side cover: Ensure the chain is seated in the drive sprocket. Hand-tighten the nuts.
4. Tension the chain: Use the side-mounted tensioning screw to adjust until the chain snaps back when pulled from the bar. Tighten the side cover nuts securely.
5. Fill with fuel/oil: Add 2-stroke fuel mix (50:1) to the fuel tank and bar/chain oil to the oil tank.

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

Specifications

• Engine Displacement: 38.2 cc
• Power Output: 1.8 kW (2.4 hp)
• Fuel Tank Volume: 0.35 L
• Oil Tank Volume: 0.25 L
• Recommended Bar Lengths: 12" to 16" (30 cm to 40 cm)
• Chain Pitch/Gauge: 3/8" LP / .050" (1.3 mm)
• Dry Weight (w/o bar & chain): 4.4 kg (9.7 lbs)
• Sound Pressure Level: 106 dB(A)
• Vibration Levels (front/rear handle): 3.2/2.8 m/s²
• Emissions Compliance: EPA Phase III, EU Stage V

Controls and Components

Front Handle: Contains throttle trigger and throttle trigger lockout. Rear Handle: Contains ON/STOP switch and combined choke/stop control.

Main Controls: Throttle Trigger, Throttle Trigger Lockout, Chain Brake (Front Hand Guard), Inertia Activation Mechanism, ON/STOP Switch, Choke/Stop Control, Decompression Valve (if equipped), Primer Bulb (if equipped), Side-Mounted Chain Tensioner, Air Filter Cover Release.

Safety Systems: Chain Brake (manual/inertia), Right-Hand Guard, Chain Catcher, Throttle Trigger Lockout, Vibration Dampeners.

Starting & Stopping Procedure

Cold Start:

1. Place saw on firm, flat ground. Engage the chain brake.
2. Press the decompression valve (if equipped).
3. Set the ON/STOP switch to the ON position.
4. Pull the choke/stop control fully out to the choke position.
5. Press the primer bulb 5-6 times (if equipped).
6. Hold the saw firmly with your left hand on the front handle and your right foot in the rear handle. Pull the starter cord sharply until the engine fires.
7. Push the choke/stop control fully in to the run position.
8. Pull the starter cord again until the engine starts. Blip the throttle to disengage the start setting.
9. Disengage the chain brake by pulling the front hand guard back toward you.

Warm Start: Follow steps 1-3 and 8-9 (do not use choke or primer).

Stopping: Release the throttle. Set the ON/STOP switch to the STOP position.

Operation & Cutting Techniques

Always use a firm, two-handed grip. Keep the saw close to your body for better control.

1. Basic Cutting: Let the chain do the work. Apply light feed pressure. Use the bumper spike (if equipped) as a pivot point.
2. Notching & Felling: For trained professionals only. Follow established directional felling techniques.
3. Limbing: Cut from the top of the log, using the trunk as a barrier between you and the chain. Beware of spring-back.
4. Bucking: Support the log properly. Cut from the top side to avoid pinching the guide bar.
5. Pruning & Aerial Work: Must be performed by a trained arborist using appropriate climbing and safety equipment. Use the top-handle design for precise, one-handed cuts when securely positioned.

WARNING! Never cut with the upper quadrant of the bar tip. This is the primary kickback zone. Always plan your cut and escape path.

Maintenance Schedule

CAUTION! Perform maintenance only when the engine is stopped and cool. Disconnect the spark plug cap for major work.

Chain Sharpening & Tensioning

A sharp, properly tensioned chain is essential for safety and performance.

1. Tensioning: Loosen the side cover nuts. Turn the tensioning screw clockwise until the chain is snug against the bar bottom. Pull the chain around the bar by hand; it should snap back. Tighten the side cover nuts securely.
2. Sharpening: Use a round file matching the chain's pitch (typically 4.0mm). File each cutter from the inside out, maintaining the original angle (typically 30°). File all cutters to the same length. Use a flat file to lower the depth gauges (rakers) to the specified height (0.65mm).

Tip: Sharpen the chain frequently (every 1-2 tanks of fuel) for best results and reduced operator effort.

Storage Guidelines

For storage longer than 30 days, prepare the saw to prevent fuel system damage.

1. Drain the fuel tank and run the engine until it stops to clear the carburetor.
2. Remove the chain and guide bar. Clean and coat with oil.
3. Clean the entire saw, especially the air filter and cooling fins.
4. Store in a dry, locked location, out of reach of children.

CAUTION! Never store the saw with fuel in the tank for extended periods. Old fuel can gum up the carburetor.

Troubleshooting

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

Support: Husqvarna AB, SE-561 82 Huskvarna, Sweden. www.husqvarna.com