Husqvarna 120 Chainsaw Manual

The Husqvarna 120 is a lightweight, easy-to-use chainsaw designed for homeowners. It features a 38.2cc X-Torq® engine for reduced emissions and fuel consumption, Smart Start® for easy starting, an inertia-activated chain brake for safety, LowVib® anti-vibration system, combined choke/stop control, and an ergonomic design. Below are key sections for safety, features, assembly, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

1. Features at a Glance 2. Assembly & Preparation 3. First-Time Use 4. Specifications 5. Controls and Functions 6. Safe Operation 7. Maintenance Schedule 8. Chain Sharpening & Tensioning 9. Storage 10. Warranty Information 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: X-Torq® engine, guide bar, saw chain, front hand guard with chain brake, throttle trigger, throttle trigger lockout, choke/stop control, primer bulb, and fuel tank.

FeatureDescription
X-Torq® EngineReduces exhaust emissions and fuel consumption
Smart Start®Easy starting system with less resistance
Inertia-Activated Chain BrakeStops chain in kickback situations
LowVib® SystemReduces vibration for user comfort
Combined Choke/Stop ControlSimplifies starting and stopping
Air Injection™Centrifugal air cleaning system for longer filter life
Front Hand GuardProtects hands and activates chain brake
Chain TensioningSide-mounted tensioner for easy adjustment
Fuel TankCapacity 0.33 US qt (0.31 liter)
Oil TankCapacity 0.21 US qt (0.20 liter)

Assembly & Preparation

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

  1. Attach guide bar and chain: Place bar on mounting studs, fit chain around bar and sprocket, adjust tension.
  2. Fill with fuel: Use Husqvarna 2-stroke engine oil mixed with unleaded gasoline (50:1 ratio).
  3. Fill chain oil: Use Husqvarna chain oil or equivalent.
  4. Check chain brake: Ensure front hand guard moves freely and activates brake.

WARNING! Always wear protective gloves when handling the chain. Ensure all parts are securely fastened.

First-Time Use

Before starting, read safety instructions thoroughly.

  1. Check controls: Ensure throttle trigger lockout, throttle trigger, and stop switch work properly.
  2. Start the chainsaw: Place on ground, engage chain brake, set choke, pull starter handle until engine fires.
  3. Warm up: Allow engine to idle for 30 seconds before cutting.
  4. Test chain brake: With engine idling, activate brake; chain should stop immediately.

CAUTION! Never start the chainsaw unless the chain brake is engaged. Keep bystanders at a safe distance.

Specifications

Controls and Functions

Main Controls: Throttle trigger, throttle trigger lockout, stop switch, choke/stop control, primer bulb, chain brake lever.

Operation: To start, engage chain brake, set choke, press primer bulb 5-6 times, pull starter handle. To stop, push stop switch to OFF.

Maintenance: Air filter cleaning, spark plug inspection, fuel filter replacement, chain sharpening, bar maintenance. Safety: Chain brake test, right-hand guard, proper grip, safe stance.

Safe Operation

Always wear protective equipment: helmet, hearing protection, safety glasses, gloves, chainsaw chaps, and sturdy boots.

  1. Clear work area of obstacles and bystanders.
  2. Hold chainsaw firmly with both hands.
  3. Do not cut above shoulder height.
  4. Be aware of kickback zone (upper quadrant of bar tip).
  5. Never operate when fatigued or under influence.

Tip: Plan an escape path before cutting. Let the chain do the work; do not force it.

Maintenance Schedule

Regular maintenance ensures performance and longevity.

  1. Daily: Check chain tension, sharpness, and lubrication. Clean air filter.
  2. Weekly: Inspect spark plug, fuel filter, and bar for wear.
  3. Monthly: Clean cooling fins, check all nuts and bolts for tightness.
  4. Seasonally: Replace spark plug, clean carburetor air intake, inspect anti-vibration elements.

WARNING! Always disconnect spark plug wire before performing maintenance. Use only Husqvarna-approved parts.

Chain Sharpening & Tensioning

A sharp, properly tensioned chain is essential for safe and efficient cutting.

  1. Tension chain: Loosen bar nuts, adjust tensioning screw until chain fits snugly against bar.
  2. Sharpen chain: Use round file (5/32" or 4.0 mm) at 30° angle. File all cutters to equal length.
  3. Check depth gauges: Use depth gauge tool to maintain correct height (0.025" or 0.65 mm).
  4. Lubricate: Ensure oil hole in bar is clear and oiler is working.

CAUTION! Wear cut-resistant gloves. Chain must move freely by hand when tensioned.

Storage

For storage longer than 30 days, prepare chainsaw to prevent damage.

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

CAUTION! Fuel left in tank can degrade and cause starting problems. Always use fuel stabilizer if storing with fuel.

Warranty Information

Husqvarna 120 chainsaw is covered by a 2-year consumer warranty from date of purchase when used for personal household use. Warranty does not cover damage from misuse, neglect, improper maintenance, or use of non-genuine parts. For warranty service, contact an authorized Husqvarna dealer. Keep your receipt as proof of purchase. For support, visit www.husqvarna.com or contact 1-800-487-5962.

Troubleshooting

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
Engine will not startNo fuel, flooded, spark plugCheck fuel mix; wait if flooded; check/replace spark plug.
Engine starts then stopsFuel filter, air filter, carburetorReplace fuel filter; clean air filter; adjust carburetor.
Chain does not turnChain brake engaged, clutch, sprocketDisengage chain brake; check clutch and drive sprocket.
Chain throws oilOil pump, oil channelCheck oil pump setting; clean oil channel in bar.
Excessive vibrationLoose parts, damaged AV mountsTighten all nuts/bolts; inspect anti-vibration mounts.

Reset: For engine issues, return carburetor to factory settings if adjustable.

Service: 1-800-487-5962; www.husqvarna.com

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