Husqvarna 455 Chainsaw Manual

The Husqvarna 455 Rancher is a professional-grade chainsaw featuring a 55.5cc X-Torq engine for reduced emissions and fuel consumption, an inertia-activated chain brake, Smart Start for easier starting, Air Injection air filtration, LowVib anti-vibration system, and a combined choke/stop control. Below are key sections for safety, features, assembly, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

Features at a Glance

Key components: X-Torq engine, inertia-activated chain brake, combined choke/stop control, Smart Start, Air Injection, LowVib system, side-mounted chain tensioner, and quick-release air filter.

Safety Instructions

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

1. Personal Protective Equipment: Wear safety glasses, hearing protection, gloves, chainsaw chaps/pants, and sturdy boots.
2. Work Area Safety: Clear area of obstacles and bystanders. Ensure secure footing.
3. Kickback Awareness: Hold saw firmly with both hands. Avoid contact with bar tip.
4. Fuel Safety: Refuel outdoors, away from ignition sources. Use approved fuel containers.

WARNING! Failure to follow safety instructions can result in serious injury or death. Never operate a chainsaw while tired, under the influence, or in poor weather conditions.

Assembly & Preparation

Unpack and inspect contents. Assemble bar and chain, fill with fuel and oil.

1. Attach Guide Bar & Chain: Place bar on studs, fit chain with drive links in bar groove, tension correctly.
2. Fill Engine Oil: Use Husqvarna chain oil or equivalent. Check oil level before each use.
3. Fuel Mix: Use 50:1 mixture of unleaded gasoline (min 89 octane) and Husqvarna 2-stroke oil.
4. Check Controls: Ensure throttle trigger, throttle lockout, and chain brake function properly.

CAUTION! Always wear protective gloves when handling the chain. Ensure chain is properly tensioned - it should snap back when pulled from the bar.

Specifications

• Engine Displacement: 55.5 cc
• Power Output: 3.5 hp
• Fuel Tank Volume: 0.95 US pint (0.45 liter)
• Oil Tank Volume: 0.63 US pint (0.30 liter)
• Recommended Bar Length: 18" or 20"
• Chain Pitch: 3/8"
• Chain Gauge: 0.050"
• Weight (excl. cutting equipment): 12.8 lbs (5.8 kg)
• Sound Pressure Level: 106 dB(A)
• Vibration Level (front/rear handle): 3.5/4.0 m/s²

Controls and Components

Main components: Front handle with chain brake, rear handle with throttle trigger, throttle lockout, combined choke/stop control, primer bulb, and decompression valve.

Controls: Chain brake handle, throttle trigger, throttle lockout, choke/stop control, primer bulb, decompression valve (if equipped), master control lever, fuel cap, oil cap.

Operation: Master control lever sets run/choke/stop positions. Chain brake engages manually (forward push) or automatically (inertia). Throttle lockout must be depressed before throttle trigger operates.

Starting & Stopping

Cold Start: Set master control to choke. Press decompression valve (if equipped). Press primer bulb 4-6 times. Pull starter cord until engine fires. Move control to run position. Pull cord to start.

1. Place saw on firm ground. Engage chain brake.
2. Activate throttle lockout. Set master control to choke (full left).
3. Press primer bulb until fuel is visible.
4. Pull starter cord sharply until engine fires (1-4 pulls).
5. Move master control to run position (middle).
6. Pull starter cord to start. Let idle for 10-15 seconds before cutting.
7. Warm Start: Follow steps but set control to run position (not choke).

Stopping: Release throttle. Set master control to stop position. Engage chain brake.

Operation Guidelines

Proper cutting techniques ensure safety and efficiency.

1. Grip: Hold front handle with left hand, rear handle with right hand. Thumbs wrapped underneath.
2. Stance: Stand with feet shoulder-width apart, left foot slightly forward.
3. Starting Cut: Apply light pressure. Let chain do the work - don't force.
4. Kickback Zone: Avoid contact with upper quarter of bar tip.
5. Bucking: Support log properly. Cut from top down for supported logs.
6. Limbing: Stand on left side of trunk. Work from butt to top.

Tip: Maintain sharp chain. A dull chain requires excessive force and increases kickback risk.

Maintenance Schedule

Daily/Before Use: Check chain tension, sharpness, and lubrication. Check all controls and fasteners.

WARNING! Always disconnect spark plug wire before performing maintenance. Allow engine to cool completely.

Chain & Bar Care

Proper chain maintenance ensures optimal performance and safety.

1. Sharpening: Use round file matching chain pitch. Maintain correct filing angle (typically 30°).
2. Tensioning: Chain should snap back when pulled from bar. Adjust when cool.
3. Bar Maintenance: Clean bar groove regularly. Flip bar monthly for even wear.
4. Lubrication: Ensure oil port is clear. Chain should throw oil during operation.

CAUTION! A loose chain can derail. An overtightened chain can break or damage sprocket.

Storage

Proper storage prevents fuel system issues and corrosion.

1. Long-term Storage: Empty fuel tank. Run engine until it stops to clear carburetor.
2. Remove chain: Clean and soak in oil. Store separately.
3. Clean entire saw: Remove debris from cooling fins, air filter, and exterior.
4. Store in dry place: Cover to prevent dust accumulation.

Tip: Use fuel stabilizer if storing with fuel for less than 30 days.

Troubleshooting

Service: For technical support, contact Husqvarna at 1-800-487-5962 or visit www.husqvarna.com