Husqvarna 365 Special Chainsaw Manual

The Husqvarna 365 Special is a professional-grade chainsaw designed for demanding forestry and tree care work. It features a powerful 65.1cc 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 air injection system for extended air filter life. 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. Chain & Bar Maintenance 7. Engine Maintenance 9. Safety Features 10. Care & Storage 11. Regulatory Information 12. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: X-Torq engine, inertia-activated chain brake, combined choke/stop control, air injection centrifugal cleaning, side-mounted chain tensioner, and ergonomic front and rear handles.

FeatureDescription
X-Torq Engine65.1cc engine technology for lower fuel consumption and reduced emissions
Inertia-Activated Chain BrakeAutomatically engages in case of kickback for operator protection
Combined Choke/Stop ControlSimplifies starting procedure and engine shut-off
Air InjectionCentrifugal air cleaning system extends air filter service intervals
Side-Mounted Chain TensionerAllows for easy chain adjustment without removing the side cover
LowVib Anti-Vibration SystemReduces vibration to the operator's hands and arms
Quick-Release Air FilterFacilitates easy cleaning and maintenance
Smart StartReduces resistance in the starter cord for easier starting
Fuel PumpPrimer bulb for easy cold starts
Chain Oil PumpAutomatic adjustable oiler for bar and chain lubrication

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 drive links of chain into bar groove and around sprocket. Ensure cutting direction is correct.
  2. Install Bar Nut and Cover: Fit the clutch cover over the bar studs. Hand-tighten bar nuts.
  3. Tension Chain: Use side-mounted tensioning screw to adjust chain tension. Lift tip of bar and tighten chain until snug against bar. Final tighten bar nuts.
  4. Fill Fluids: Add recommended 2-stroke engine oil/gasoline mix to fuel tank. Fill chain oil reservoir with recommended bar and chain oil.

WARNING! Always wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) including gloves, eye protection, hearing protection, and chainsaw chaps during assembly and operation.

First-Time Operation

Perform pre-start checks before first use.

  1. Check Chain Tension: Chain should be snug against bar but pull freely by hand.
  2. Check Chain Sharpness: Ensure chain is sharp. A dull chain is dangerous and inefficient.
  3. Start Procedure: Place saw on firm ground. Activate chain brake. Set master control lever to choke position. Press fuel pump (primer) 4-6 times. Pull starter cord until engine fires. Move master control lever to run position. Pull starter cord to start.
  4. Warm Up: Allow engine to idle for 30-60 seconds before applying load.

CAUTION! Never start the saw unless the chain brake is engaged. Keep bystanders at a safe distance.

Specifications

Controls and Functions

Front Handle: Throttle trigger, throttle trigger lockout. Rear Handle: Master control lever (choke/stop/run), start/stop switch. Right Side: Chain brake lever/hand guard, inertia-activated brake mechanism. Left Side: Side-mounted chain tensioner.

Operation: Squeeze throttle trigger lockout and throttle trigger to accelerate. Release to idle. Push hand guard forward to engage chain brake manually. Pull towards operator to disengage.

Maintenance Controls: Quick-release air filter cover, spark plug access, cylinder cover screws.

Chain & Bar Maintenance

Regular maintenance ensures optimal performance and safety.

  1. Chain Sharpening: Use correct round file size (typically 5/32" for 3/8" chain). Maintain correct filing angle (typically 30°). File all cutters to equal length.
  2. Chain Tensioning: Check frequently when hot and cold. Adjust using side tensioner. Proper tension: snug against bar but pull freely by hand.
  3. Bar Maintenance: Clean bar groove regularly. Flip bar weekly for even wear. Check for burrs on rails and file smooth.
  4. Oiler Check: Ensure oil port on bar is clear. Adjust oil flow rate if adjustable.

Tip: Always stop the engine and engage the chain brake before performing any maintenance.

Engine Maintenance

Follow scheduled maintenance for long engine life.

  1. Air Filter: Clean daily in dusty conditions. Remove, tap clean, or wash in warm soapy water. Dry completely before reinstallation.
  2. Spark Plug: Check gap periodically (0.020" / 0.5 mm). Replace if electrode is worn.
  3. Fuel Filter: Replace annually or if clogged. Located inside fuel tank.
  4. Cylinder Cooling Fins: Keep clean of sawdust and debris to prevent overheating.
  5. Carburetor Adjustment: Factory set. Only adjust by trained personnel if necessary.

WARNING! Use only Husqvarna-approved 2-stroke engine oil mixed with unleaded gasoline (50:1 ratio for XP oil, or as specified by your oil). Never use straight gasoline.

Safety Features

Inertia-Activated Chain Brake: Triggers on kickback. Throttle Trigger Lockout: Prevents accidental throttle engagement. Right-Hand Guard: Protects hand and activates chain brake. Chain Catcher: Prevents broken chain from striking operator. LowVib System: Reduces operator fatigue.

Care & Storage

For storage over 30 days: Run engine dry of fuel. Remove spark plug and add 1 teaspoon of engine oil into cylinder. Pull starter cord slowly to distribute oil. Reinstall plug. Clean entire saw. Store in a dry, cool place.

CAUTION! Fuel left in the carburetor may evaporate and leave sticky residues, clogging fuel passages. Always use fuel stabilizer or run dry for long-term storage.

Regulatory Information

This product complies with relevant ANSI/EPA safety and emission standards. The engine meets EPA Phase 3 and CARV Tier III emission regulations. Husqvarna is a registered trademark. For genuine spare parts and accessories, contact an authorized Husqvarna dealer. For support, visit www.husqvarna.com or contact customer service at 1-800-487-5952.

Troubleshooting

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
Engine will not startNo spark, flooded, stale fuelCheck spark plug; set master control to run/flooded start; use fresh fuel mix.
Engine starts but diesClogged air/fuel filter, carburetor issuesClean/replace air filter; check fuel filter; have carburetor serviced.
Loss of powerDirty air filter, clogged fuel filter, dull chainClean air filter; replace fuel filter; sharpen chain.
Chain does not turnChain brake engaged, clutch worn, sprocket wornDisengage chain brake; inspect clutch and sprocket for wear.
Excessive chain oil useOil pump setting too highAdjust oil flow to appropriate level.
Chain throws off barLoose chain, worn bar, damaged drive linksTension chain properly; inspect bar for wear; check chain for damage.

Service: For major repairs, contact an authorized Husqvarna service dealer.

Support: 1-800-487-5952; www.husqvarna.com

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