Husqvarna 357 Chainsaw Manual

The Husqvarna 357 is a professional-grade gasoline chainsaw featuring a 56.5cc engine, X-Torq technology for reduced emissions and fuel consumption, an inertia-activated chain brake, combined choke/stop control, air injection centrifugal air cleaning, low vibration system, and automatic chain oiling. Below are key sections for safety, features, assembly, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

Features at a Glance

Key components: 56.5cc X-Torq engine, 16-20 inch guide bar, inertia-activated chain brake, combined choke/stop control, side-mounted chain tensioner, automatic chain oiler, air injection system.

Assembly & Preparation

Unpack and inspect all components. Assemble on clean, stable surface.

1. Attach guide bar and chain: Place bar on mounting studs, fit chain with drive links in bar groove, adjust tension.
2. Fill with fuel: Use fresh 50:1 gasoline/oil mixture (2-stroke oil).
3. Fill chain oil: Use quality bar and chain oil in separate tank.
4. Check chain brake: Ensure brake functions properly before starting.

WARNING! Always wear protective equipment: helmet, gloves, eye protection, hearing protection, and chainsaw chaps.

First-Time Operation

Perform pre-start checks before initial use.

1. Check chain tension: Chain should snap back when pulled from bar.
2. Test chain brake: Engage brake by pushing forward handle.
3. Cold start: Set master control to choke, pull starter cord until engine fires, move to run position.
4. Warm start: Set master control to run position only.
5. Chain lubrication: Check oil flow by holding saw over light surface at high RPM.

CAUTION! Never operate chainsaw with loose or damaged chain. Keep bystanders at least 15 feet away.

Specifications

• Engine Displacement: 56.5 cc
• Power Output: 3.4 hp
• Fuel Capacity: 0.95 US pints (0.45 liters)
• Oil Capacity: 0.63 US pints (0.30 liters)
• Recommended Bar Length: 16-20 inches
• Chain Pitch: 3/8" or .325"
• Chain Gauge: 0.058" (1.5 mm)
• Weight (without bar/chain): 12.8 lbs (5.8 kg)
• Sound Pressure Level: 106 dB(A)
• Vibration Level: Front handle 3.2 m/s², Rear handle 4.5 m/s²

Controls and Functions

Master Control Lever: Combined choke/stop control. Throttle Trigger: Controls engine speed. Throttle Lockout: Must be pressed to engage throttle. Chain Brake Handle: Manual activation. Inertia Brake: Automatic activation during kickback. Decompression Valve: Reduces cylinder pressure for easier starting. Chain Tensioner: Side-mounted adjustment wheel. Chain Oiler Adjustment: Manual control for oil flow rate.

Starting Procedure: 1. Engage chain brake. 2. Set master control to choke. 3. Pull starter cord until engine fires. 4. Move master control to run. 5. Squeeze throttle trigger to disengage start setting.

Chain & Bar Setup

Proper chain installation and maintenance is critical for safe operation.

1. Loosen bar nuts with combination wrench.
2. Place bar over mounting studs, ensuring tension pin engages bar hole.
3. Install chain with cutting teeth facing forward on top of bar.
4. Tighten bar nuts finger-tight, adjust tension with side wheel.
5. Final tighten bar nuts when proper tension is achieved.

Tip: Chain should be snug against bar but pull freely by hand. Always check tension when chain is cold.

Safe Operation Procedures

Always follow safety guidelines to prevent serious injury.

1. Personal Protective Equipment: Always wear complete safety gear.
2. Clear Work Area: Remove tripping hazards, ensure escape path.
3. Proper Stance: Stand with feet shoulder-width apart, left foot slightly forward.
4. Grip: Hold front handle with left hand, rear handle with right hand.
5. Cutting Techniques: Let saw do the work, avoid forcing through cut.
6. Kickback Prevention: Keep nose of bar out of cut, be aware of pinch points.
7. Refueling: Stop engine completely, allow to cool before refueling.

WARNING! Never operate chainsaw above shoulder height or with one hand. Always be aware of kickback zone.

Maintenance Schedule

Daily: Check chain tension, sharpness, and lubrication. Clean air filter, check fuel and oil levels. Weekly: Clean cooling fins, check spark plug, clean chain brake mechanism. Monthly: Clean fuel filter, check all nuts and bolts for tightness, inspect anti-vibration elements. Seasonally: Replace spark plug, clean carburetor air intake, check starter mechanism.

Chain Sharpening: Use round file matching chain diameter (typically 7/32" or 13/64"). Maintain 30° cutting angle, 10° top plate angle. File all cutters to equal length.

Storage & Winterization

For storage exceeding 30 days: 1. Drain fuel tank and run engine until carburetor is empty. 2. Remove chain and bar, clean thoroughly, coat with oil. 3. Clean entire saw, especially cooling fins and air filter. 4. Store in dry, protected area. 5. For winter storage, consider fuel stabilizer if draining isn't possible.

CAUTION! Never store chainsaw with fuel in tank for extended periods. Gasoline deteriorates and can damage carburetor.

Regulatory Information

EPA Certified: Meets EPA Phase 2 emission standards. CARB Compliant: Certified for sale in California. ANSI B175.1: Complies with safety standards for gasoline-powered chain saws. EU Noise Directive: Complies with outdoor equipment noise regulations. For technical support, visit www.husqvarna.com or contact 1-800-487-5962. Copyright © Husqvarna AB. All rights reserved.

Troubleshooting

Service Intervals: Professional servicing recommended every 50 operating hours or annually.

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