Husqvarna 240 38.2cc Gas Chainsaw Manual

The Husqvarna 240 is a lightweight, professional-grade gas chainsaw featuring a 38.2cc X-Torq engine for reduced emissions and fuel consumption. It includes a combined choke/stop control, inertia-activated chain brake, LowVib anti-vibration system, air injection centrifugal air cleaning, and Smart Start for easier starting. Below are key sections for safety, features, assembly, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

1. Features at a Glance 2. Safety Instructions 3. Assembly & Preparation 4. Specifications 5. Controls and Components 6. Starting & Stopping 7. Operation & Cutting Techniques 8. Maintenance Schedule 9. Chain Sharpening & Tensioning 10. Storage 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: 38.2cc X-Torq engine, 16" guide bar, inertia-activated chain brake, combined choke/stop control, air injection, LowVib system, Smart Start.

FeatureDescription
Engine38.2cc X-Torq engine for lower fuel consumption and emissions
Guide Bar16-inch Oregon bar (standard)
Chain BrakeInertia-activated for kickback protection
Air InjectionCentrifugal air cleaning system for longer filter life
LowVibAnti-vibration system for reduced operator fatigue
Smart StartReduces resistance in starter cord for easier starting
Combined Choke/StopSingle lever for choke, stop, and run positions
Fuel Tank Capacity0.33 US quarts (0.31 liters)
Oil Tank Capacity0.25 US quarts (0.24 liters)
Weight (dry)10.1 lbs (4.6 kg)

Safety Instructions

Read and understand all instructions before operation. Always wear protective equipment.

  1. Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): Wear safety helmet, hearing protection, eye protection, gloves, chainsaw chaps, and sturdy boots.
  2. Work Area Safety: Keep bystanders and pets at least 15 feet away. Ensure secure footing.
  3. Kickback Prevention: Hold saw firmly with both hands. Do not cut with tip of bar. Maintain chain sharpness and proper tension.
  4. Fuel Safety: Refuel outdoors, away from ignition sources. Use fresh fuel mix (50:1). Wipe spills immediately.

WARNING! Failure to follow safety instructions can result in serious injury or death. The chain brake does not eliminate kickback risk.

Assembly & Preparation

Unpack and inspect contents. Assemble guide bar and chain. Fill with fuel and oil.

  1. Attach guide bar: Loosen bar nuts, position bar over studs, align chain drive links with sprocket, tension chain, tighten nuts.
  2. Fill chain oil: Use Husqvarna biodegradable chain oil or equivalent. Fill oil tank to full mark.
  3. Prepare fuel mix: Use 89+ octane gasoline and Husqvarna XP+ 2-stroke oil at 50:1 ratio (2.6 oz oil per 1 gallon gas). Shake well.
  4. Fill fuel tank: Clean area around cap. Pour fuel mix slowly to avoid spills.

CAUTION! Never use automotive oil or straight gasoline. Improper fuel will damage engine.

Specifications

Controls and Components

Front Handle: Throttle trigger, throttle lockout, front hand guard. Rear Handle: Start/stop switch, choke control, rear handle. Right Side: Chain brake handle, chain catcher, muffler. Left Side: Combined choke/stop control, fuel and oil caps, decompression valve (if equipped).

Control Functions: Throttle trigger (speed control), throttle lockout (prevents accidental throttle), chain brake (manual/inertia activation), choke control (cold start), decompression valve (reduces starting effort).

Starting & Stopping

Cold Start:

  1. Place saw on flat ground. Engage chain brake.
  2. Press decompression valve (if equipped).
  3. Move combined control to choke position (full up).
  4. Pull starter cord until engine fires (1-4 pulls).
  5. Move control to half-throttle position.
  6. Pull starter cord until engine starts. Allow to idle briefly.
  7. Disengage chain brake. Saw is ready.

Warm Start: Control in run position. Pull starter cord.

Stopping: Release throttle. Move combined control to stop position.

Operation & Cutting Techniques

Always use proper stance and grip. Let saw do the work.

  1. Felling: Plan escape path. Make notch cut (1/3 tree diameter). Make felling cut, leaving hinge wood. Retreat along escape path.
  2. Limbing: Stand uphill. Cut branches from bottom to top. Support saw with trunk.
  3. Bucking: Support log off ground. Cut from top side. For pinched bar, stop and use wedge.
  4. Kickback Prevention: Hold saw firmly. Do not cut above shoulder height. Be aware of bar tip contact.

WARNING! Never operate with one hand. Always be prepared for kickback.

Maintenance Schedule

IntervalTask
DailyCheck chain tension, sharpness; clean air filter; inspect guide bar; fill fuel and oil
WeeklyClean spark arrestor screen; check spark plug; clean cooling fins
MonthlyInspect fuel filter; check all nuts/bolts; clean carburetor air intake
SeasonallyReplace spark plug; clean/replace fuel filter; inspect anti-vibration elements
As NeededSharpen chain; replace guide bar; clean clutch drum/sprocket

Chain Sharpening & Tensioning

Proper chain maintenance ensures safe, efficient cutting.

  1. Sharpening: Use round file matching chain pitch (typically 5/32"). File each cutter at 30° angle. Maintain equal length on all cutters. File depth gauges with flat file.
  2. Tensioning: Chain should snap back when pulled from bar. Loosen bar nuts. Adjust tensioning screw until chain fits snugly against bar. Tighten bar nuts while lifting bar tip.
  3. Lubrication: Ensure oil port is clear. Chain should throw oil during operation. Adjust oil flow with screw (if equipped).

CAUTION! Always wear gloves when handling chain. Stop engine before adjustments.

Storage

Proper storage prevents fuel system issues and corrosion.

  1. Drain fuel tank. Run engine until it stops to empty carburetor.
  2. Remove chain, clean, and soak in oil. Store separately.
  3. Clean entire saw. Apply light oil to guide bar rails and cylinder.
  4. Store in dry, cool place. Cover to prevent dust accumulation.
  5. For long-term storage (30+ days), use fuel stabilizer or drain completely.

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

Troubleshooting

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
Engine won't startNo spark, flooded, old fuelCheck spark plug; move control to stop, pull cord 10x; use fresh fuel mix.
Engine starts then diesClogged filter, carb adjustmentClean/replace air/fuel filters; adjust carburetor (H/L screws).
Poor cutting performanceDull chain, improper tensionSharpen chain; adjust tension; check bar wear.
Chain won't stop movingClutch issues, idle too highAdjust idle speed; inspect clutch springs/shoes.
Excessive vibrationLoose components, unbalanced chainTighten all nuts/bolts; balance chain cutters.
Chain throws oil excessivelyOil pump setting too highAdjust oil flow screw counterclockwise.
OverheatingDull chain, clogged cooling finsSharpen chain; clean fins; check fuel mix ratio.

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

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

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