Husqvarna 61 Chainsaw User Manual

The Husqvarna 61 is a professional-grade gasoline-powered chainsaw designed for demanding forestry and woodcutting applications. It features a powerful 61cc engine, automatic chain oiling, anti-vibration system, inertia-activated chain brake, and a range of safety and performance features. Below are key sections for safety, features, assembly, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

Features at a Glance

Key components: 61cc 2-stroke engine, 20-inch guide bar, Automatic chain oiler, Anti-vibration system, Inertia-activated chain brake, Side-mounted chain tensioner, Combined choke/stop control, Decompression valve.

Safety Information

Read and understand all safety instructions before operation.

1. Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): Always wear chainsaw chaps, safety glasses, hearing protection, gloves, and steel-toed boots.
2. Clear Work Area: Ensure no bystanders, especially children or pets, are within 15 meters.
3. Fuel Safety: Refuel in well-ventilated area with engine off and cool. Use approved fuel/oil mix.
4. Kickback Awareness: Understand kickback zone (upper quadrant of bar tip). Maintain secure grip.
5. Carrying & Transport: Engage chain brake; carry with bar pointing backward.

WARNING! Failure to follow safety instructions can result in serious injury or death. Never operate when tired or under the influence.

Assembly & Preparation

Unpack and inspect contents. Assemble on clean, flat surface.

1. Attach Guide Bar & Chain: Place bar on mounting studs. Fit chain with cutting teeth facing forward on top of bar. Adjust tension.
2. Fill Fuel Tank: Use fresh gasoline (minimum 89 octane) mixed with 2-stroke oil at 50:1 ratio (2%). Shake well.
3. Fill Chain Oil Tank: Use approved bar and chain oil. Do not use waste oil.
4. Check Chain Tension: Chain should be snug against bar but pull freely by hand.

CAUTION! Ensure chain brake is disengaged during assembly. Keep hands away from sharp chain.

Specifications

• Model: Husqvarna 61
• Engine Type: 2-stroke, single cylinder
• Displacement: 61 cm³ (3.7 cu. in.)
• Power Output: 3.7 kW (5.0 hp)
• Maximum Power Speed: 9,000 rpm
• Idle Speed: 2,700 rpm
• Fuel Consumption: Approx. 580 g/kWh
• Sound Pressure Level: 106 dB(A)
• Vibration Level (front/rear handle): 4.5/3.5 m/s²
• Spark Plug: Champion RCJ7Y or equivalent
• Recommended Fuel Mix: 50:1 (2% high-quality 2-stroke oil)

Controls and Components

Familiarize yourself with all controls before starting.

Right Side: Throttle trigger, Throttle trigger lockout, Front hand guard/chain brake, Stop switch.

Left Side: Choke control, Decompression valve, Fuel primer bulb (if equipped), Combined choke/stop control.

Top/Back: Rear handle with anti-vibration mounts, Spark plug cover, Air filter cover, Chain tensioner screw.

Main Functions: Chain brake (manual/inertia activation), Throttle lockout (prevents accidental throttle engagement), Stop switch (cuts ignition), Choke (cold starts), Decompression valve (reduces starting effort).

Starting & Stopping Procedure

Follow correct procedure to ensure safe operation.

Cold Start:

1. Place saw on flat ground. Engage chain brake.
2. Press decompression valve (if equipped).
3. Set choke to full choke position.
4. Press fuel primer bulb 4-6 times (if equipped).
5. Pull starter cord sharply until engine fires (1-3 pulls).
6. Move choke to half-throttle position.
7. Pull starter cord again until engine starts.
8. Blip throttle to disengage fast idle. Disengage chain brake.

Warm Start: Do not use choke. Follow steps 1, 5, 8.

Stopping: Release throttle. Press stop switch to OFF position.

Operation & Cutting Techniques

Proper technique ensures efficiency and safety.

1. Basic Stance: Stand with feet shoulder-width apart, left foot slightly forward.
2. Grip: Left hand on front handle, thumb wrapped underneath. Right hand on rear handle, finger on throttle trigger.
3. Felling Trees: Plan escape path (45-degree angle backward). Make notch cut (1/3 tree diameter). Make felling cut (2 inches above notch). Use wedges if needed.
4. Limbing: Work from trunk outward. Keep saw stable; avoid tip contact.
5. Bucking: Support log off ground. Cut from top down. Beware of tension/compression wood.
6. Kickback Prevention: Never cut with upper quadrant of bar tip. Maintain firm grip. Keep chain sharp and properly tensioned.

WARNING! Never operate above shoulder height. Be aware of falling branches and shifting logs.

Maintenance Schedule

Chain & Bar Care

Proper maintenance extends life and improves performance.

1. Sharpening: Use round file matching chain pitch (typically 7/32"). Maintain 30-degree cutting angle. File all cutters evenly.
2. Depth Gauge Setting: Use depth gauge tool to maintain correct height (0.025" / 0.65 mm).
3. Bar Maintenance: Clean bar groove weekly. Flip bar monthly for even wear. Dress bar rails with flat file if burred.
4. Chain Tension: Adjust when chain sags from bar. Proper tension: snug against bar but pull freely by hand.

CAUTION! Always wear gloves when handling chain. Ensure saw is off and cool.

Storage Guidelines

Proper storage prevents fuel system issues and corrosion.

1. Short-term (under 30 days): Fill fuel tank to prevent condensation. Run engine dry of fuel in carburetor.
2. Long-term (over 30 days): Drain all fuel from tank and carburetor. Run engine until it stops. Remove chain; clean and oil. Store in dry, cool place.
3. Battery (if electric start): Disconnect battery; store fully charged.

WARNING! Never store with fuel in tank for extended periods. Fuel deteriorates and can damage carburetor.

Troubleshooting

Service: For repairs beyond basic maintenance, contact authorized Husqvarna service dealer.

Support: Husqvarna USA: 1-800-487-5962; www.husqvarna.com/us