Husqvarna 55 Chainsaw Owners Manual

The Husqvarna 55 is a professional-grade chainsaw designed for demanding forestry and tree care work. It features a powerful 55cc engine, X-Torq technology for reduced emissions and fuel consumption, an inertia-activated chain brake, combined choke/stop control, and a low vibration system. This manual covers safety, features, assembly, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting to ensure safe and efficient use.

Features at a Glance

Key components: 55cc X-Torq engine, 15" or 18" guide bar, inertia-activated chain brake, combined choke/stop control, air injection cleaning system, and low vibration handles.

Assembly & Preparation

Unpack and inspect all parts. Assemble on a clean, stable surface.

1. Attach Guide Bar & Chain: Place bar on studs, fit chain around sprocket and bar, tension correctly.
2. Fill Fuel: Use fresh fuel mix (50:1 gasoline to 2-stroke oil).
3. Fill Chain Oil: Use high-quality bar and chain oil.
4. Check Controls: Ensure throttle, throttle lockout, and chain brake function smoothly.

WARNING! Always wear protective gear (gloves, eye protection, hearing protection, chainsaw chaps, helmet) during assembly and operation.

First-Time Operation

Before starting, ensure safe clearance and proper footing.

1. Cold Start: Set chain brake on. Set stop switch to start position. Pull choke. Pull starter cord until engine fires. Push choke in. Pull starter cord to start.
2. Warm Start: Follow procedure without choke.
3. Run at Idle: Allow engine to warm up for a few minutes.
4. Test Chain Brake: With engine at idle, activate brake by hitting front hand guard. Chain should stop immediately.

CAUTION! Never start the saw unless the chain brake is engaged or you are in a secure cutting position.

Specifications

• Engine Displacement: 55 cc
• Power Output: Approximately 3.4 hp
• Fuel: Gasoline mixed with 2-stroke oil (50:1 ratio)
• Recommended Bar Lengths: 15" - 18"
• Chain Pitch/Gauge: Typically .325" pitch, .058" gauge (check bar marking)
• Idle Speed: 2700 RPM
• Maximum Power Speed: 9600 RPM
• Sound Pressure Level: Approx. 114 dB(A)
• Vibration Level (front/rear handle): Approx. 4.5/2.5 m/s²

Controls and Functions

Main Controls: Throttle trigger, Throttle lockout, Stop switch, Choke control, Chain brake lever/hand guard, Decompression valve (if equipped), Primer bulb (if equipped).

Operation: Hold rear handle with right hand, front handle with left hand. Press throttle lockout with left thumb before squeezing throttle trigger. To activate chain brake, push front hand guard forward (manual) or let inertia activate it during kickback.

Adjustments: Chain tension (side cover screw), Carburetor (H, L, T screws - for authorized service only).

Safe Operation Procedures

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) is mandatory. Plan your cut and escape path.

1. Starting: Place saw on ground, secure it with your foot in the rear handle, and start as described.
2. Cutting: Use full throttle when cutting. Let the chain do the work; do not force it.
3. Kickback Awareness: Be aware of the kickback zone (upper quadrant of bar tip). Do not cut with this part.
4. Refueling: Stop engine and allow to cool. Refuel in a well-ventilated area away from ignition sources.

Tip: Always cut at waist level or below for better control.

Maintenance Schedule

Regular maintenance ensures performance and longevity.

1. Daily: Check chain tension, sharpness, and lubrication. Clean air filter. Check for loose parts.
2. Weekly: Clean cooling fins. Check spark plug condition. Clean fuel filter.
3. Monthly: Clean carburetor air intake. Check clutch and sprocket wear.
4. As Needed: Replace worn bar, chain, or sprocket. Clean spark arrestor screen.

WARNING! Perform all maintenance with the engine off, spark plug wire disconnected, and the chain brake engaged.

Chain & Bar Care

Proper chain and bar maintenance is critical for safety and cutting performance.

Sharpening: Use correct round file size for your chain. Maintain correct filing angle (typically 30°). File all cutters to equal length. Check depth gauges regularly and file down when necessary.

Bar Maintenance: Clean bar groove regularly. Flip bar weekly for even wear. Dress bar rails with a flat file if burred.

CAUTION! A dull or damaged chain increases the risk of kickback and operator fatigue.

Storage

For storage longer than 30 days, prepare the saw to prevent fuel system damage.

1. Empty the fuel tank and run the engine until it stops to clear carburetor.
2. Remove, clean, and oil the chain. Store separately.
3. Clean the entire saw, especially cooling fins and air filter.
4. Store in a dry, locked place, out of reach of children.

CAUTION! Never store the saw with fuel in the tank for extended periods. Old fuel can gum up the carburetor.

Regulatory & Warranty

This chainsaw meets applicable ANSI/EPA safety and emission standards. It is intended for professional use by trained operators. Copyright and trademarks owned by Husqvarna AB. The warranty covers defects in materials and workmanship for a specified period from date of purchase when used for private, non-commercial purposes. For warranty service, contact an authorized Husqvarna service dealer. For support, visit www.husqvarna.com or contact your local dealer.

Troubleshooting

Service: For repairs beyond basic maintenance, take your Husqvarna 55 to an authorized service dealer.

Dealer Locator & Support: www.husqvarna.com