Husqvarna Model 142 Chainsaw Manual

The Husqvarna Model 142 is a lightweight, professional-grade chainsaw designed for demanding cutting tasks. It features a high-performance engine, low vibration system, efficient air filtration, and automatic chain oiling. This manual covers safety instructions, assembly, operation, maintenance, troubleshooting, and specifications to ensure safe and optimal performance.

1. Safety Instructions 2. Assembly & Preparation 3. Controls & Features 4. Specifications 5. Starting & Stopping 6. Operating Instructions 7. Maintenance Schedule 8. Chain & Bar Care 9. Troubleshooting 10. Storage 11. Warranty & Support

Safety Instructions

Read all instructions before operation. Always wear protective equipment.

HazardPrecaution
KickbackHold saw firmly with both hands; keep chain sharp; use low-kick chain if available.
Noise/VibrationWear hearing protection; take regular breaks.
Flying DebrisWear safety glasses, face shield, gloves, and chainsaw chaps.
Fuel HandlingRefuel in well-ventilated area; let engine cool; avoid spills.
Electrical HazardsKeep away from power lines; do not operate in wet conditions.

WARNING! Never operate chainsaw when fatigued or under influence. Keep bystanders at safe distance.

Assembly & Preparation

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

  1. Attach guide bar: Loosen bar nuts, position bar onto studs, align chain with sprocket.
  2. Install chain: Place chain over bar, ensure cutting teeth face forward on top.
  3. Tension chain: Adjust tensioning screw until chain fits snugly against bar; tighten bar nuts.
  4. Fill oil tank: Use recommended bar and chain oil; check for leaks.
  5. Mix fuel: Use fresh unleaded gasoline (min 89 octane) with 2-stroke oil at 50:1 ratio.

CAUTION! Ensure chain brake is functional before starting. Check all fasteners are tight.

Controls & Features

Key components: Throttle trigger, throttle trigger lockout, stop switch, choke control, primer bulb, chain brake, front hand guard, rear handle, fuel tank cap, oil tank cap.

Controls: THROTTLE TRIGGER (accelerates engine), THROTTLE TRIGGER LOCKOUT (prevents accidental throttle), STOP SWITCH (stops engine), CHOKE (cold starts), PRIMER BULB (fuel prime), CHAIN BRAKE (stops chain instantly).

Features: Anti-vibration system, inertia-activated chain brake, side-mounted chain tensioning, automatic chain oiling, air injection filtration.

Specifications

Starting & Stopping

Starting (Cold Engine):

  1. Place saw on flat ground; engage chain brake.
  2. Press decompression valve (if equipped).
  3. Set choke to full position; press primer bulb 5-6 times.
  4. Pull starter cord sharply until engine fires.
  5. Move choke to half position; pull until engine starts.
  6. Blip throttle to disengage choke; release chain brake.

Starting (Warm Engine): Skip choke; use half position if needed.

Stopping: Release throttle; press STOP SWITCH to OFF.

WARNING! Never drop-start chainsaw. Keep firm footing during starting.

Operating Instructions

Basic Cutting Techniques:

  1. Felling: Plan escape path; make notch cut 1/3 diameter; make felling cut from opposite side.
  2. Limbing: Stand uphill; cut from top of log; let chain do the work.
  3. Bucking: Support log; cut from top; avoid pinching chain.
  4. Pruning: Use bottom of bar; avoid tip contact.

Tips: Maintain high engine speed during cut; do not force saw; check chain oil frequently.

CAUTION! Beware of kickback zone (upper quadrant of bar tip). Never cut above shoulder height.

Maintenance Schedule

IntervalTask
DailyCheck chain tension, sharpness, and lubrication; clean air filter; inspect bar for wear.
WeeklyClean cooling fins; check spark plug; clean fuel filter.
MonthlyInspect anti-vibration mounts; check clutch and sprocket; clean carburetor air intake.
SeasonallyReplace spark plug; clean fuel tank; inspect starter mechanism.

Use only genuine Husqvarna replacement parts.

Chain & Bar Care

Sharpening: Use round file matching chain pitch (typically 4.0 mm). File at 30° angle; maintain equal tooth length.

Depth Gauge: File depth gauges with flat file; maintain 0.65 mm below cutting edge.

Bar Maintenance: Clean bar groove weekly; flip bar monthly for even wear; file down burrs on rails.

Tip: Keep chain sharp; dull chain increases kickback risk and reduces efficiency.

Troubleshooting

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
Engine won't startNo spark, flooded, stale fuelCheck spark plug; dry plug; use fresh fuel mix; clean air filter.
Engine runs poorlyClogged filter, carb adjustmentClean/replace fuel filter; adjust carburetor (H/L screws).
Chain doesn't oilEmpty tank, clogged oil holeFill oil tank; clean oil passage; check oil pump.
Chain comes off barLoose chain, worn barTension chain properly; replace worn bar/sprocket.
Excessive vibrationLoose parts, damaged mountsTighten all fasteners; replace anti-vibration mounts.

Storage

Long-term Storage (over 30 days):

  1. Drain fuel tank and run engine until carburetor is empty.
  2. Remove chain, clean and soak in oil; store bar coated in oil.
  3. Clean entire saw; check for damage.
  4. Store in dry, cool place away from ignition sources.

CAUTION! Never store with fuel in tank; fuel deteriorates and may damage carburetor.

Warranty & Support

Husqvarna Model 142 includes a 2-year consumer warranty covering defects in materials/workmanship when used for personal purposes. Commercial use may have different terms. Proof of purchase required.

For technical support, parts, or service:

Always provide model and serial number (located on engine housing) when contacting support.

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