Husqvarna 44 Chainsaw Manual

The Husqvarna 44 is a professional-grade chainsaw designed for demanding forestry and cutting work. It features a powerful 44cc engine, automatic chain oiling, anti-vibration system, inertia-activated chain brake, and easy-start technology. Below are key sections for safety, features, assembly, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

1. Features at a Glance 2. Safety Information 3. Assembly & Preparation 4. Specifications 5. Controls and Components 6. Starting the Chainsaw 7. Operating Instructions 8. Maintenance Schedule 9. Chain Sharpening & Tensioning 10. Storage Guidelines 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: 44cc X-Torq engine, Guide bar, Saw chain, Chain brake, Throttle trigger, Stop switch, Front hand guard, Oil pump, Fuel tank, Chain tensioner.

FeatureDescription
X-Torq EngineReduces fuel consumption and exhaust emissions
Automatic Chain OilingLubricates chain during operation
Inertia-Activated Chain BrakeStops chain instantly in kickback situations
Anti-Vibration SystemReduces operator fatigue
Air InjectionCentrifugal air cleaning system for longer filter life
Combined Choke/Stop ControlSimplifies starting procedure
Quick-Release Air FilterEasy access for cleaning
Side-Mounted Chain TensionerAllows adjustment without tools
Fuel Level WindowVisible fuel gauge
Spark Arrestor MufflerReduces fire risk in dry conditions

Safety Information

Read all instructions before operation. Wear proper protective equipment.

  1. Personal Protective Equipment: 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 Prevention: Hold saw firmly with both hands. Do not cut with tip of bar.
  4. Fuel Safety: Refuel outdoors, away from ignition sources. Use fresh fuel mix.

WARNING! Chainsaw kickback can cause serious injury or death. Always maintain proper grip and stance.

Assembly & Preparation

Unpack and inspect contents. Assemble guide bar and chain.

  1. Attach guide bar: Place bar on studs, align chain, tighten nuts finger-tight.
  2. Install chain: Ensure cutting teeth face forward on top of bar.
  3. Tension chain: Use side adjuster until chain snaps back when pulled from bar.
  4. Final tightening: Tighten bar nuts securely after proper tension is set.
  5. Fill tanks: Add fuel mix (50:1 gasoline to 2-stroke oil) and chain oil.

CAUTION! Chain must move freely when pulled. Overtightening can damage bar and chain.

Specifications

Controls and Components

Main controls: Throttle trigger, Throttle trigger lockout, Stop switch, Choke control, Chain brake, Decompression valve.

Right Side: Chain brake lever, Front hand guard, Throttle trigger, Rear handle. Left Side: Chain tensioner, Oil filler cap, Fuel filler cap, Air filter cover, Spark plug.

Safety features: Chain brake (manual/inertia activated), Throttle trigger lockout (must be pressed to engage throttle), Right hand guard, Chain catcher.

Starting the Chainsaw

Cold start procedure (for engine at ambient temperature):

  1. Place saw on flat ground, clear of debris.
  2. Activate chain brake by pushing front hand guard forward.
  3. Press decompression valve (if equipped).
  4. Set choke control to full choke position.
  5. Press throttle trigger lockout and pull starter cord 3-4 times until engine fires.
  6. Move choke to half-throttle position.
  7. Pull starter cord until engine starts.
  8. Blip throttle to disengage fast idle, release chain brake.

Warm Start: Do not use choke. Follow steps 1-2, then pull starter cord.

Operating Instructions

Basic cutting techniques for felling, limbing, and bucking.

  1. Felling: Plan escape path. Make notch cut (1/3 tree diameter), then felling cut.
  2. Limbing: Stand on left side of trunk. Work from base to top.
  3. Bucking: Support log properly. Cut from top side when possible.
  4. Kickback Zone: Avoid contact with upper quadrant of bar tip.
  5. Chain Brake Test: Verify function before each use by pulling guard forward.

Tip: Let chain do the work; don't force the saw. Maintain sharp chain.

Maintenance Schedule

IntervalTask
DailyCheck chain tension, sharpness, and lubrication
DailyClean air filter (more often in dusty conditions)
WeeklyClean cooling fins and spark arrestor screen
MonthlyCheck spark plug condition and gap (0.020")
SeasonallyReplace fuel filter and inspect fuel lines
AnnuallyProfessional inspection of piston, cylinder, bearings

CAUTION! Always disconnect spark plug before performing maintenance.

Chain Sharpening & Tensioning

Proper chain maintenance ensures optimal performance and safety.

  1. Sharpening: Use round file matching chain pitch. Maintain 30° cutting angle.
  2. Depth Gauges: File down to 0.025" below cutter edge using depth gauge tool.
  3. Tensioning: Chain should snap back when pulled from middle of bar.
  4. Adjustment: Loosen bar nuts, turn tensioning screw clockwise, retighten nuts.
  5. Lubrication: Check oil flow by running saw near light surface; look for oil line.

WARNING! Never operate with dull or loose chain. Increases kickback risk.

Storage Guidelines

Proper storage prevents fuel system issues and corrosion.

  1. Empty fuel tank or add fuel stabilizer.
  2. Run engine until carburetor is dry.
  3. Remove chain, clean, and soak in oil.
  4. Clean entire saw, especially cooling fins.
  5. Store in dry place, protected from moisture.

Long-term: Remove spark plug, add teaspoon of oil to cylinder, pull starter cord slowly to distribute.

Troubleshooting

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
Engine won't startNo spark, flooded, stale fuelCheck spark plug; wait if flooded; use fresh fuel mix.
Engine runs then diesClogged fuel filter, air leakReplace fuel filter; check fuel lines and carburetor seals.
Poor cutting performanceDull chain, improper tensionSharpen chain; adjust tension; check bar groove.
Chain won't oilEmpty oil tank, clogged portsFill tank; clean oil holes in bar; check pump function.
Excessive vibrationLoose components, unbalanced chainTighten all fasteners; check chain for damaged cutters.
Chain brake not engagingWorn brake band, dirty mechanismClean brake components; replace brake band if worn.

Service: For technical support, contact Husqvarna at 1-800-487-5962 or visit www.husqvarna.com

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