Husqvarna 353 Chainsaw Owners Manual

The Husqvarna 353 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 ergonomic design with low vibration levels, an inertia-activated chain brake, an air injection system for reduced air filter maintenance, and a quick-release air filter for easy cleaning. Below are key sections for safety, features, assembly, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

Features at a Glance

Key components: X-Torq engine, Ergonomic handles with anti-vibration, Inertia chain brake, Air Injection cleaning system, Quick-release air filter, Combined choke/stop control, Side-mounted chain tensioner.

Safety Information

Read and understand all instructions before operation. Always wear appropriate PPE.

1. Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): Always wear safety helmet, hearing protection, protective glasses, gloves, chainsaw protective trousers, and boots with steel toe caps.
2. Work Area Safety: Ensure no persons or animals are within a 15-meter radius. Be aware of your surroundings, including overhead power lines and unstable ground.
3. Fuel Safety: Refuel in a well-ventilated area with the engine stopped. Use clean, fresh fuel mix (see specifications). Wipe off any spillage.
4. Kickback Zone: Be aware of the upper quadrant of the guide bar nose. Never cut with this part of the bar.

WARNING! A chainsaw is a dangerous tool if used improperly. Failure to follow safety instructions can result in serious injury or death.

Assembly & Preparation

Unpack and inspect contents. Assemble guide bar and chain.

1. Attach the guide bar: Place the bar onto the bar studs, ensuring the chain adjuster pin fits into the hole in the bar.
2. Fit the chain: Place the chain over the sprocket and onto the guide bar, ensuring cutting teeth face forward on the top of the bar.
3. Tighten the bar nuts: Hand-tighten the nuts, then use the side-mounted tensioner to adjust chain tension. Finally, tighten the bar nuts securely.
4. Fill with fuel and oil: Use the correct 2-stroke fuel/oil mix (50:1). Fill the chain oil tank with special chain oil (not waste oil).

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

Specifications

• Engine Displacement: 50.1 cm³ (3.06 cu.in.)
• Engine Power: 3.0 kW (4.0 hp)
• Fuel/Oil Ratio: 50:1 (Husqvarna HP or equivalent 2-stroke oil)
• Recommended Bar Lengths: 15" (38 cm), 18" (45 cm), 20" (50 cm)
• Chain Pitch/Gauge: .325" / .058" (1.5 mm) or 3/8" / .050" (1.3 mm)
• Dry Weight (without bar & chain): 5.2 kg (11.5 lbs)
• Sound Pressure Level: 106 dB(A)
• Vibration Levels (Front/Rear Handle): 3.2/2.8 m/s²
• Ignition System: Electronic, type SEM
• Carburetor: Walbro HDA

Controls and Components

Familiarize yourself with all controls before starting.

Main Components: Front Handle, Rear Handle, Throttle Trigger, Throttle Trigger Lockout, Stop Switch, Choke Control, Chain Brake (Front Hand Guard), Decompression Valve (if equipped), Fuel Tank Cap, Chain Oil Tank Cap, Air Filter Cover, Muffler.

Operation: The throttle trigger lockout must be pressed before the throttle trigger can be activated. The chain brake is engaged by pushing the front hand guard forward. It is disengaged by pulling it back towards the operator.

Starting & Stopping

Place the saw on firm, flat ground. Ensure the chain is clear of any objects.

1. Cold Start: Activate the chain brake. Set the stop switch to the start position. Press the decompression valve (if equipped). Set the choke control to full choke. Pull the starter cord sharply until the engine fires. Move the choke control to half-throttle position. Pull the starter cord again to start. Let the engine idle briefly, then disengage the chain brake.
2. Warm Start: Follow the cold start procedure but do not use the choke. Use the half-throttle position.
3. Stopping: Release the throttle and allow the engine to idle. Press the stop switch to the stop position.

Tip: Always start the saw at least 3 meters from the refueling area.

Operating Instructions

Use a firm grip with both hands. Maintain good balance and footing.

1. Basic Cutting: Let the chain do the work. Apply light pressure. Do not force the saw.
2. Felling Trees: Plan an escape path. Make a notch cut on the felling side, then a felling cut from the opposite side. Use a felling wedge if necessary.
3. Limbing: Cut branches from the bottom of the tree upwards. Stand on the left side of the trunk for better control.
4. Bucking (Cross-cutting): Support logs properly. Be aware of tension and compression in the wood to avoid pinching the guide bar.

WARNING! Never operate the chainsaw above shoulder height or with one hand. Always be alert for kickback.

Maintenance Schedule

Regular maintenance is crucial for safety and performance.

Chain Sharpening & Tensioning

A sharp, properly tensioned chain is essential for safe and efficient cutting.

1. Tensioning: Loosen the bar nuts. Turn the side-mounted tensioning screw clockwise until the chain fits snugly against the bar but can still be pulled around by hand. Tighten the bar nuts while lifting the tip of the bar. Re-check tension.
2. Sharpening: Use a round file matching your chain pitch (e.g., 4.0mm for .325" chain). File each cutter from the inside out at the specified angle (typically 30°). Maintain equal file strokes for each cutter. File depth gauges (rakers) with a flat file and gauge.

CAUTION! Always wear gloves when handling the chain. A loose chain can derail; an overtightened chain can break.

Storage

Prepare the chainsaw for storage if it will not be used for more than 30 days.

1. Clean the entire saw, removing sawdust and dirt.
2. Drain the fuel tank and run the engine until it stops to empty the carburetor.
3. Remove the chain and guide bar. Clean and oil them. Store the chain in oil.
4. Remove the spark plug. Pour a teaspoon of 2-stroke oil into the cylinder. Pull the starter cord slowly to distribute the oil, then refit the plug.
5. Store in a dry, clean, and secure place, out of reach of children.

CAUTION! Never store the saw with fuel in the tank for long periods. Old fuel can damage engine components.

Troubleshooting

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

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