husqvarna chainsaw model 61 manual

The Husqvarna Model 61 is a professional-grade chainsaw featuring a high-performance 61cc engine, automatic chain oiling, inertia-activated chain brake, anti-vibration system, and a robust design for demanding cutting tasks. Below are key sections covering safety, features, assembly, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

Features at a Glance

Key components: 61cc 2-stroke engine, 16"-20" guide bar, automatic chain oiler, inertia chain brake, anti-vibration handles, combined choke/stop control, side-mounted chain tensioner.

Safety Information

Read and understand all safety warnings before operation.

1. Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): Always wear safety glasses, hearing protection, gloves, chainsaw chaps, and steel-toed boots.
2. Work Area Safety: Clear area of bystanders, especially children. Ensure secure footing.
3. Kickback Awareness: Hold saw firmly with both hands. Do not cut with bar tip. Use reduced-kickback chain.
4. Fuel Safety: Refuel outdoors, with engine off and cool. Use approved fuel mix (see Specifications).

WARNING! Failure to follow safety instructions can result in serious injury or death. The chain brake is a safety device; test regularly.

Assembly & Preparation

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

1. Attach Guide Bar & Chain: Loosen bar nuts. Position chain on bar with cutters facing forward. Fit bar onto studs, ensuring chain engages sprocket. Adjust tension, then tighten nuts.
2. Fill Fuel Tank: Use fresh fuel mix (50:1 gasoline to 2-stroke oil). Do not use automotive oil or straight gasoline.
3. Fill Chain Oil Tank: Use approved bar & chain oil. Check for leaks.
4. Check Chain Tension: Chain should be snug against bar but pull freely by hand. Re-tension after initial use.

CAUTION! Ensure chain brake is disengaged (pulled back toward front handle) before starting.

Specifications

• Model: Husqvarna 61
• Engine Type: 2-stroke, single cylinder
• Displacement: 61 cm³ (3.7 cu. in.)
• Power Output: 3.4 kW (4.6 hp)
• Max Engine Speed: 9,500 rpm
• Fuel/Oil Ratio: 50:1 (Husqvarna HP or equivalent 2-stroke oil)
• Recommended Bar Lengths: 16", 18", 20"
• Chain Pitch/Gauge: .325" / .058" (or as per bar specification)
• Sound Power Level: 114 dB(A)
• Vibration Levels (front/rear handle): 4.5/3.5 m/s²

Controls and Components

Familiarize yourself with all controls before starting the engine.

Main Controls:

• Front Handle: Includes throttle trigger and throttle trigger lockout.
• Rear Handle: Main grip with stop switch.
• Choke/Stop Control: Three positions: Run, Choke (cold start), Stop.
• Chain Brake Lever: Located forward of front handle. Engages brake if activated manually or by inertia.
• Chain Tensioner: Side-mounted wheel for adjusting chain tension.
• Decompression Valve: Reduces pulling resistance during starting (if equipped).
• Fuel Primer Bulb: Press several times for cold starts to fill carburetor.

Starting & Stopping Procedures

Cold Start:

1. Place saw on firm ground. Engage chain brake.
2. Press fuel primer bulb 5-6 times until fuel is visible.
3. Set choke control to full choke position.
4. Pull starter rope sharply until engine fires (usually 1-3 pulls).
5. Move choke control to half-throttle position.
6. Pull starter rope again until engine starts. Let run for 10 seconds.
7. Disengage chain brake. Squeeze throttle trigger to return to idle.

Warm Start: Do not use choke. Follow steps 1, 6, and 7.

Stopping: Release throttle, allow engine to idle, then push stop switch to OFF.

Operating Instructions

Proper technique ensures safety and efficiency.

1. Basic Cutting Stance: Stand with feet shoulder-width apart, left foot slightly forward. Hold saw close to body.
2. Starting a Cut: Apply full throttle before bar contacts wood. Let chain do the work; do not force.
3. Bucking (cutting felled logs): Support log off ground. Cut from top down. Beware of pinch points.
4. Limbing: Cut branches from bottom of tree working toward top. Keep saw between you and branch.
5. Maintaining Chain Speed: Keep engine at high RPM during cutting for best performance and reduced kickback risk.
6. Chain Oiling: Automatic system operates when engine runs. Check oil level frequently. For heavy cutting, use manual override (if equipped).

WARNING! Never operate chainsaw above shoulder height or with one hand.

Maintenance Schedule

Chain & Bar Care

1. Sharpening: Use correct round file size (.325" chain uses 5/32" file). Maintain 30° filing angle. File all cutters to equal length.
2. Depth Gauge Setting: Check and file depth gauges (rakers) with flat file and gauge tool. Maintain 0.025" clearance.
3. Bar Maintenance: Regularly clean bar groove and oil holes. Flip bar weekly for even wear. Check for straightness and wear.
4. Chain Tension: A new chain stretches; check tension frequently during first tank of fuel. Adjust when chain sags from bottom of bar.

Tip: A sharp chain reduces effort, improves safety, and extends saw life.

Storage Guidelines

For storage longer than 30 days:

1. Drain fuel tank and run engine until it stops to empty carburetor.
2. Remove chain and bar. Clean thoroughly and coat with oil.
3. Remove spark plug. Pour 1 teaspoon of 2-stroke oil into cylinder. Pull starter rope slowly to distribute oil, then reinstall plug.
4. Clean entire saw. Store in a dry, cool place, protected from dust.

CAUTION! Never store saw with fuel in tank for extended periods. Old fuel can damage engine components.

Troubleshooting

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

Support: Husqvarna Customer Support: 1-800-487-5962 or visit www.husqvarna.com