Husqvarna Model 61 Chainsaw Manual

The Husqvarna Model 61 is a professional-grade chainsaw designed for demanding forestry and heavy-duty cutting applications. It features a powerful 61cc two-stroke engine, automatic chain oiling, anti-vibration system, inertia-activated chain brake, and a range of safety and performance features. Below are key sections for safety, features, assembly, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

Features at a Glance

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

Safety Information

Read and understand all safety instructions before operation.

1. Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): Always wear safety helmet, hearing protection, eye protection, gloves, chainsaw chaps, and sturdy boots.
2. Work Area Safety: Clear area of bystanders, especially children. Ensure secure footing. Never operate on a ladder or unstable surface.
3. Kickback Danger: Be aware of kickback zone (upper quadrant of bar nose). Maintain firm grip with thumbs wrapped around handles. Use reduced-kickback chain and bar.
4. Fuel Safety: Refuel in well-ventilated area with engine off and cool. Use correct fuel/oil mix (50:1 with Husqvarna 2-stroke oil). Wipe spills immediately.

WARNING! Failure to follow safety instructions can result in serious injury or death. The chain brake is a safety device, not a substitute for safe operation.

Assembly & Preparation

Unpack and inspect contents. Assemble guide bar and chain.

1. Attach Guide Bar & Chain: Place bar on mounting studs. Loop chain over sprocket and onto bar groove, ensuring cutting teeth face forward on top of bar. Adjust tension.
2. Fill Tanks: Add fuel mix to fuel tank. Fill chain oil tank with specified bar and chain oil.
3. Check Chain Tension: New chain stretches; check and adjust tension frequently during first hours of use.
4. Inspect Controls: Ensure throttle trigger, throttle lockout, and chain brake function correctly.

CAUTION! Always wear protective gloves when handling the chain. Ensure chain is properly seated on bar sprocket nose before tightening.

Specifications

• Model: Husqvarna 61.
• Engine Type: 2-stroke, single cylinder, air-cooled.
• Displacement: 61 cm³ (3.7 cu. in.).
• Power Output: Approx. 3.7 kW (5.0 hp).
• Fuel/Oil Ratio: 50:1 (High-quality 2-stroke oil).
• Recommended Bar Length: 16" to 20".
• Chain Pitch/Gauge: .325" pitch, .058" or .063" gauge (check specific model).
• Idle Speed: 2,700 rpm.
• Maximum Power Speed: 9,000 rpm.
• Sound Pressure Level: Approx. 106 dB(A).
• Vibration Level: Front handle: 4.5 m/s²; Rear handle: 5.5 m/s².

Controls and Components

Main components: Front handle with chain brake, rear handle, throttle trigger, throttle lockout, choke/stop control, primer bulb (if equipped), combined master control lever.

Controls: Master Control Lever: Choke position (cold start), Run position, Stop position. Throttle Trigger: Controls engine speed. Throttle Lockout: Must be depressed to engage throttle. Chain Brake/Hand Guard: Inertia-activated or manually engaged by pushing forward. Chain Tensioner: Side-mounted screw for adjusting chain tension. Decompression Valve (if equipped): Reduces compression for easier starting.

Starting & Stopping Procedure

Cold Start:

1. Place saw on flat, clear ground. Engage chain brake.
2. Press decompression valve (if equipped).
3. Set master control lever to choke position (full up).
4. Press primer bulb 4-6 times until fuel is visible (if equipped).
5. Pull starter handle sharply until engine fires (usually 1-3 pulls).
6. Immediately move master control lever to run position (middle).
7. Pull starter handle again to start engine. Allow to idle briefly.
8. Disengage chain brake by pulling hand guard towards rear handle.

Warm Start: Master control lever in run position. No choke or primer needed.

Stopping: Release throttle, allow engine to idle. Move master control lever to stop position.

Tip: Never drop-start the chainsaw. Always start it on the ground.

Operating Instructions

Proper cutting techniques ensure safety and efficiency.

1. Basic Stance: Stand with feet shoulder-width apart, left foot slightly forward. Hold saw firmly with both hands.
2. Making a Cut: Let the chain do the work. Apply light downward pressure. Use the bumper spikes (dogs) to pivot into the wood.
3. Bucking (Cutting Fallen Logs): Support log off ground. Cut from top down. Beware of binding; use wedges for large logs.
4. Felling Trees: For professionals only. Requires notch cut and felling cut. Plan escape path. Consider wind, lean, and obstacles.
5. Kickback Prevention: Do not cut with the nose of the bar. Maintain high chain speed when entering cut. Keep saw body close to your body.

WARNING! Never operate the chainsaw above shoulder height or with one hand. Be extremely cautious of reactive forces (kickback, pushback, pull-in).

Maintenance Schedule

Chain & Bar Care

Proper care extends life and improves performance.

1. Sharpening: Use correct round file size (.325" chain uses 5/32" file). Maintain correct filing angle (typically 30°). File all cutters to equal length. File depth gauges (rakers) with gauge tool.
2. Tensioning: Chain should be snug against bar but pull freely by hand. Re-tension when chain feels loose (hot chain requires more frequent adjustment).
3. Bar Maintenance: Regularly clean bar groove. Flip bar weekly to ensure even wear. Dress bar rails with flat file if burred.
4. Lubrication: Always use specified bar and chain oil. Check oil flow by pointing bar tip at light surface and running at full throttle; a fine line of oil should appear.

CAUTION! A dull or poorly tensioned chain increases risk of kickback and operator fatigue. Stop and sharpen or adjust immediately.

Storage Guidelines

Prepare chainsaw for storage to prevent damage.

1. Short-term (less than 30 days): Run carburetor dry or add fuel stabilizer. Clean entire saw. Loosen chain tension.
2. Long-term (over 30 days): Drain all fuel from tank and carburetor. Drain chain oil. Remove, clean, and oil chain. Store in a dry, cool place, away from ignition sources.
3. Battery (for electric start models, if equipped): Remove and store battery in a cool, dry place at partial charge.

WARNING! Old fuel can cause starting problems and damage the engine. Never store saw with fuel in the tank for extended periods.

Troubleshooting

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

Support: Husqvarna AB, SE-561 82 Huskvarna, Sweden. For your local dealer, visit www.husqvarna.com.