Husqvarna 445e Chainsaw Manual

The Husqvarna 445e is a professional-grade gasoline chainsaw featuring a 45.7cc X-Torq engine for reduced emissions and fuel consumption, Smart Start for easy starting, LowVib anti-vibration system, Air Injection centrifugal air cleaning, combined choke/stop control, inertia-activated chain brake, and side-mounted chain tensioning. Below are key sections for safety, features, assembly, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

1. Features at a Glance 2. Safety Information 3. Assembly & Preparation 4. Specifications 5. Controls and Components 6. Starting & Stopping 7. Operating Instructions 8. Maintenance Schedule 9. Chain & Bar Care 10. Storage 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: X-Torq engine, guide bar, saw chain, chain brake, throttle trigger, throttle lockout, front and rear handles, fuel tank, oil tank, air filter cover.

FeatureDescription
X-Torq EngineReduces exhaust emissions and fuel consumption
Smart StartEasy starting system with automatic decompression valve
LowVib SystemReduces vibration for operator comfort
Air InjectionCentrifugal air cleaning for longer air filter life
Combined Choke/Stop ControlSimplified starting sequence
Inertia-Activated Chain BrakeStops chain in kickback situations
Side-Mounted Chain TensionerEasy chain adjustment without tools
Fuel Level WindowVisual check of fuel quantity
Quick-Release Air FilterEasy access for cleaning
Chain CatcherSafety feature to catch broken chain

Safety Information

Read and understand all safety warnings before operation.

  1. Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): Always wear safety helmet, hearing protection, eye protection, gloves, chainsaw protective trousers, and boots.
  2. Work Area Safety: Keep bystanders and animals at least 15 meters away. Ensure secure footing.
  3. Kickback Zone: Avoid contact with upper quadrant of guide bar tip.
  4. Fuel Safety: Refuel outdoors only, with engine stopped and cool. Use clean, fresh fuel mix.
  5. Chain Brake: Check function before each use.

WARNING! Improper use can cause serious or fatal injury. Never operate when tired, ill, or under influence of drugs/alcohol.

Assembly & Preparation

Unpack and inspect contents. Assemble guide bar and chain.

  1. Attach guide bar: Place bar on studs, align chain tensioning pin.
  2. Fit saw chain: Ensure cutting teeth face forward on top of bar.
  3. Install bar nut and cover: Hand-tighten, then adjust chain tension.
  4. Fill fuel tank: Use Husqvarna 2-stroke oil mixed with unleaded gasoline (50:1 ratio).
  5. Fill chain oil tank: Use Husqvarna chain oil or equivalent.

CAUTION! Ensure chain is properly tensioned—should snap back when pulled from guide bar.

Specifications

Controls and Components

Main controls located on top and rear handle.

Right Side: Throttle trigger, throttle lockout, stop switch, choke control, primer bulb (if equipped).

Left Side: Chain brake/hand guard, inertia release button, side-mounted chain tensioner.

Front: Front handle with vibration dampeners, chain catcher, muffler.

Maintenance Points: Air filter cover, spark plug, fuel cap, oil cap, chain tensioning screw.

Starting & Stopping

Cold Start:

  1. Activate chain brake by pushing hand guard forward.
  2. Set stop switch to start position.
  3. Press decompression valve (if equipped).
  4. Pull choke control to full choke.
  5. Press primer bulb 4-6 times (if equipped).
  6. Place on ground, hold rear handle with right foot, pull starter handle until engine fires.
  7. Move choke to half-throttle, pull until engine starts.
  8. Blip throttle to disengage fast idle.
  9. Release chain brake before cutting.

Warm Start: Use half-choke or no choke.

Stopping: Release throttle, press stop switch.

Operating Instructions

Proper cutting techniques for safety and efficiency.

  1. Basic Stance: Feet shoulder-width apart, left foot slightly forward.
  2. Grip: Hold front handle with left hand, rear handle with right hand. Thumbs wrapped underneath.
  3. Starting Cut: Apply light throttle, let chain touch wood gradually.
  4. Kickback Prevention: Never cut with upper quadrant of bar tip. Maintain firm grip.
  5. Bucking: Support log properly. Cut from top down, avoid ground contact.
  6. Limbing: Stand on left side of trunk. Cut downward branches first.
  7. Felling: Not recommended for inexperienced users. Consult professional training.

Tip: Let chain do the work—avoid excessive pressure.

Maintenance Schedule

IntervalTask
DailyCheck chain tension, sharpness, and lubrication. Clean air filter. Check all controls.
WeeklyClean cooling fins. Check spark plug condition. Clean exterior.
MonthlyClean fuel filter. Check fuel lines. Clean carburetor air filter.
50 hoursReplace spark plug. Clean cylinder fins thoroughly.
100 hoursReplace fuel filter. Check vibration dampeners.
AnnuallyProfessional servicing recommended.

CAUTION! Always disconnect spark plug before maintenance.

Chain & Bar Care

Proper maintenance ensures cutting performance and safety.

  1. Sharpening: Use round file matching chain pitch. Maintain 30° cutting angle. File all cutters equally.
  2. Depth Gauges: File down with flat file when 0.5 mm lower than cutter top.
  3. Bar Maintenance: Clean bar groove weekly. Flip bar monthly for even wear.
  4. Lubrication: Always use chain oil. Check oil flow by holding tip near light surface—should show oil line.
  5. Tensioning: Chain should snap back when pulled from bar. Adjust when cool.

WARNING! Dull chain increases kickback risk and operator fatigue.

Storage

Proper storage prevents fuel system issues.

  1. Drain fuel tank and run engine until it stops.
  2. Remove spark plug, add 1 teaspoon of engine oil through spark plug hole.
  3. Pull starter cord slowly to distribute oil, then reinstall plug.
  4. Clean entire saw, especially cooling fins and air filter.
  5. Remove chain, clean and soak in oil. Store bar flat.
  6. Store in dry, cool place, protected from dust.

CAUTION! Never store with fuel in tank for more than 30 days.

Troubleshooting

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
Engine won't startNo spark, flooded, old fuelCheck spark plug; use fresh fuel mix; follow correct starting procedure.
Engine starts then diesClogged fuel filter, dirty air filterReplace fuel filter; clean air filter.
Poor performanceDull chain, clogged mufflerSharpen chain; clean muffler screen.
Chain doesn't turnBrake engaged, worn clutchRelease chain brake; check clutch springs.
Excessive vibrationLoose components, worn dampenersTighten all bolts; replace vibration dampeners.
Chain throws oilOverfilled oil tank, wrong oilUse correct viscosity oil; don't overfill.
Chain comes off barLoose chain, worn barAdjust tension; check bar for wear.

Service: For repairs, contact authorized Husqvarna service center.

Support: 1-800-487-5962; www.husqvarna.com

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