Husqvarna 36 Chainsaw Repair Manual

The Husqvarna 36 is a lightweight, professional-grade chainsaw featuring a 36.3cc engine, automatic oiler, inertia-activated chain brake, and low-vibration system. This manual provides comprehensive repair, maintenance, and troubleshooting guidance for owners and technicians. Below are key sections covering safety, specifications, disassembly, engine service, fuel system, ignition, lubrication, bar & chain, troubleshooting, and reassembly.

1. Safety Precautions 2. Specifications & Identification 3. Tools & Workshop Requirements 4. Disassembly Sequence 5. Engine & Cylinder Service 6. Fuel System & Carburetor 7. Ignition System & Spark Plug 8. Chain Oiling System 9. Bar, Chain & Sprocket 10. Troubleshooting Guide 11. Reassembly & Final Checks

Safety Precautions

Before any repair, ensure the chainsaw is completely cool, the spark plug wire is disconnected, and all fuel is drained. Always wear cut-resistant gloves and safety glasses.

HazardPrecaution
Fuel & FireWork in well-ventilated area; no open flames or sparks.
Sharp ChainAlways engage chain brake when not cutting; handle by top handle.
Hot SurfacesAllow engine and muffler to cool before disassembly.
Springs & TensionCarefully release tension on throttle trigger, starter recoil, and chain brake springs.
Battery (if electric start)Disconnect battery before servicing electrical components.

Specifications & Identification

Locate the model and serial number plate on the rear of the saw, near the handle.

Tools & Workshop Requirements

Basic mechanic's toolset plus Husqvarna specialty tools recommended.

  1. Torx T27 screwdriver for housing screws.
  2. Spark plug wrench (13/16").
  3. Compression tester (expected: 120-140 psi).
  4. Feeler gauges for ignition air gap and carburetor adjustments.
  5. Chain breaker and spinner for chain service.
  6. Piston stop tool for flywheel removal.
  7. Clean, organized workspace with parts trays.

WARNING! Use genuine Husqvarna replacement parts or certified equivalents to ensure fit and safety.

Disassembly Sequence

Systematic teardown ensures no damage and easy reassembly.

  1. Remove bar, chain, and side cover. Drain fuel and bar oil.
  2. Disconnect spark plug wire. Remove top cover and air filter cover.
  3. Remove starter assembly and flywheel cover.
  4. Secure flywheel with piston stop; remove flywheel nut and flywheel.
  5. Remove carburetor and intake manifold.
  6. Separate engine from main housing by removing mounting bolts.
  7. Remove clutch, drum, and oil pump assembly.
  8. Disassemble handle and trigger linkages, noting spring positions.

Tip: Take photos or make sketches of wire routing and linkage positions before disconnecting.

Engine & Cylinder Service

Inspect for wear, scoring, and carbon buildup.

ComponentInspectionService Action
Cylinder WallsVisual check for scoring or glaze.Light honing if minor; replace if deeply scored.
Piston & RingsMeasure ring end gap; check for cracks.Replace if gap exceeds 0.8 mm or piston is damaged.
Crankcase SealsCheck for leaks (pressure/vacuum test).Replace seals if leak found; use sealant on mating surfaces.
Connecting RodCheck for side play at crank pin.Excessive play indicates worn crank assembly—replace.
MufflerRemove and clean carbon deposits.Inspect for cracks; replace spark arrestor screen if clogged.

Fuel System & Carburetor

Most running issues originate here. Use a carburetor rebuild kit.

  1. Remove carburetor; disassemble in clean area.
  2. Soak metal parts in carb cleaner; replace all diaphragms, gaskets, and inlet needle.
  3. Clean all jets and passages with compressed air (do not use wire).
  4. Set factory baseline screws: L = 1 turn out, H = 1 turn out, T = 1 turn out.
  5. Reinstall with new gaskets; pressure test fuel lines and tank vent.

CAUTION! Adjust H (high speed) screw only with tachometer to avoid engine damage from lean condition.

Ignition System & Spark Plug

Check for spark first if engine fails to start.

Chain Oiling System

Automatic and manual oiler systems. Common failure points.

  1. Check oil tank for debris; clean filter screen.
  2. Inspect oil pump drive gear (driven by clutch drum) for wear.
  3. Remove oil pump and check diaphragm and plunger for free movement.
  4. Clear oil passages in bar pad and bar oil holes.
  5. Test oil flow by running saw at high RPM over cardboard.

Tip: Use only recommended bar & chain oil for proper viscosity and adhesion.

Bar, Chain & Sprocket

Regular maintenance prevents poor cutting and excessive wear.

PartInspectionAction
Guide BarCheck for straightness, groove wear, and burrs.File rails flat; dress burrs; replace if groove is uneven or deeply worn.
Cutting ChainCheck for damaged, bent, or dull cutters.Sharpen with round file; maintain correct depth gauge setting.
Sprocket (Clutch Drum)Look for hooking or wear on drive teeth.Replace sprocket if wear exceeds 0.5 mm; use spur or rim type per model.
Clutch AssemblyCheck springs for fatigue; shoes for wear.Replace clutch if shoes are glazed or springs are weak.

Troubleshooting Guide

Diagnose common Husqvarna 36 problems systematically.

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
Engine won't startNo spark, flooded, fuel issueCheck spark, plug condition; dry plug; verify fuel flow and carb settings.
Engine starts then diesClogged fuel filter, tank vent, carbReplace fuel filter; clear tank vent; clean carburetor.
Lacks power under loadClogged air filter, exhaust screen, carb adjustmentClean/replace air filter; clean muffler screen; adjust H screw.
Chain doesn't oilEmpty oil tank, clogged passages, pump failureFill tank; clean bar holes and oil ports; inspect/replace oil pump.
Excessive vibrationLoose components, unbalanced clutch, bent crankshaftTighten all mounts; inspect clutch drum; check crankshaft runout.

Reassembly & Final Checks

Reverse disassembly sequence, using new gaskets and seals.

  1. Reassemble engine into housing; torque mounting bolts to spec.
  2. Install carburetor with new gaskets; connect throttle linkage and choke.
  3. Set ignition air gap (0.3 mm); install flywheel and torque nut.
  4. Reinstall starter assembly, air filter, and covers.
  5. Mount bar and chain; adjust tension correctly (snug but pullable).
  6. Fill with fresh fuel mix and bar oil.
  7. Start saw and check idle, acceleration, and oiler function.
  8. Final inspection: no leaks, all fasteners tight, safety features operational.

Service Support: For parts and technical assistance, contact Husqvarna at 1-800-487-5962 or visit www.husqvarna.com/us.

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