560xp Husqvarna Chainsaw (5 Expert Fixes for Common Issues)

Around here, folks take their firewood seriously. Up in the Northeast, where I cut my teeth in the wood processing game, a good woodpile isn’t just a source of heat; it’s a badge of honor. Come winter, you’re not just battling the cold; you’re facing down the consequences of poor planning and shoddy wood. That’s why a reliable chainsaw is worth its weight in gold. It’s a workhorse, no doubt, but even the best tools can have their hiccups.

I’ve spent years felling trees, bucking logs, and splitting firewood. I’ve seen it all, from greenhorns struggling with dull chains to seasoned pros wrestling with flooded engines. And I’ve learned a thing or two about keeping a chainsaw running smoothly. The 560XP is a favorite among many, and for good reason. It’s powerful, relatively lightweight, and built to last. But like any piece of machinery, it can develop problems. In this article, I’m going to share some of the most common issues I’ve seen with the Husqvarna 560XP and, more importantly, how to fix them. These are the fixes I’ve relied on out in the field, and I’m confident they can help you keep your saw humming, too.

560XP Husqvarna Chainsaw: Expert Fixes for Common Issues

Let’s face it, a chainsaw that won’t start, stalls constantly, or just plain lacks power is about as useful as a screen door on a submarine. I’ve been there, staring at a pile of logs that need to be bucked, with a saw that refuses to cooperate. It’s frustrating, time-consuming, and can even be dangerous. That’s why understanding the common problems that plague the 560XP and knowing how to address them is crucial.

1. The Stubborn Starter: Troubleshooting Starting Problems

Nothing’s more irritating than a chainsaw that refuses to start. You pull and pull, your arm aches, and the engine just coughs weakly, if at all. This is a very common issue, and thankfully, often a relatively easy fix.

• The Culprit: Fuel Issues

  • The Problem: Stale fuel is the number one offender. Gasoline degrades over time, especially when mixed with oil for two-stroke engines. This degradation leads to the formation of gums and varnishes that can clog the carburetor and fuel lines. I’ve seen brand new saws rendered useless simply because they were filled with old gas.
  • The Fix: Always use fresh fuel, ideally less than 30 days old. When storing your saw for extended periods, drain the fuel tank completely. I personally add a fuel stabilizer to my gas can to extend its life a bit, especially during the off-season.
  • Data Point: Studies have shown that gasoline can lose up to 50% of its octane rating in just six months of storage, leading to poor engine performance and starting problems.
  • Real-World Example: A friend of mine, a small-scale logger, spent an entire morning trying to start his 560XP after it had been sitting idle for a few months. Turns out, the fuel had completely gummed up the carburetor. A thorough cleaning and fresh fuel got it running like new.
  • Actionable Takeaway: Make it a habit to use fresh fuel, drain the tank before storing the saw, and consider using a fuel stabilizer.

  • The Culprit: Spark Plug Problems

  • The Problem: A fouled or damaged spark plug can prevent the engine from firing. Carbon buildup, cracks in the insulator, or improper gap can all cause starting issues.

  • The Fix: Remove the spark plug and inspect it. Look for signs of carbon buildup, cracks, or damage. Clean the plug with a wire brush or replace it altogether. Check the spark plug gap using a feeler gauge and adjust it to the manufacturer’s specifications (usually around 0.020 inches or 0.5 mm for the 560XP). A new spark plug is a cheap and easy fix that can often solve starting problems.
  • Data Point: A study by the Equipment Engine Training Council (EETC) found that faulty spark plugs are responsible for up to 25% of small engine starting problems.
  • Real-World Example: I once had a 560XP that would start intermittently. After checking everything else, I finally decided to replace the spark plug, even though it looked okay. The new plug solved the problem instantly. Sometimes, the damage isn’t visible to the naked eye.
  • Actionable Takeaway: Keep a spare spark plug on hand and make it a part of your regular maintenance routine to inspect and, if necessary, replace the plug.

  • The Culprit: Flooded Engine

  • The Problem: Over-priming the engine or repeated attempts to start it can flood the cylinder with fuel, preventing it from firing.

  • The Fix: If you suspect the engine is flooded, remove the spark plug and pull the starter cord several times to clear the excess fuel. Let the cylinder air out for a few minutes before reinstalling the spark plug and attempting to start the saw again. Avoid using the choke unless absolutely necessary.
  • Actionable Takeaway: Use the choke sparingly and avoid over-priming the engine. If you flood the engine, be patient and allow it to air out completely before trying to start it again.

  • The Culprit: Air Filter

  • The Problem: A clogged air filter restricts airflow to the engine, leading to starting problems and poor performance.

  • The Fix: Remove the air filter and inspect it. If it’s dirty, clean it with warm, soapy water. Allow it to dry completely before reinstalling it. If the filter is damaged or excessively dirty, replace it.
  • Actionable Takeaway: Clean or replace the air filter regularly, especially when working in dusty conditions.

  • The Culprit: Primer Bulb

  • The Problem: A cracked or damaged primer bulb can prevent fuel from being drawn into the carburetor, making it difficult to start the saw.

  • The Fix: Inspect the primer bulb for cracks or damage. If it’s cracked or doesn’t feel firm when you press it, replace it.
  • Actionable Takeaway: Replace the primer bulb if you notice any signs of damage or if it doesn’t seem to be working properly.

2. Stalling Out: Diagnosing and Fixing Engine Stalling

A chainsaw that stalls frequently is a frustrating and potentially dangerous problem. It interrupts your work, wastes time, and can even lead to accidents if the saw stalls unexpectedly while you’re cutting.

• The Culprit: Carburetor Issues

  • The Problem: The carburetor is responsible for mixing fuel and air in the correct proportions for combustion. A dirty or improperly adjusted carburetor can cause the engine to stall, especially at idle.
  • The Fix: Start by cleaning the carburetor. Remove the air filter and spray carburetor cleaner into the carburetor throat while the engine is running (if it will run). If that doesn’t work, you may need to disassemble the carburetor and clean it more thoroughly. Pay close attention to the jets and passages, making sure they are clear of debris.
  • Data Point: Carburetor problems are estimated to be responsible for up to 40% of small engine stalling issues.
  • Real-World Example: I had a 560XP that would stall every time I let off the throttle. After trying everything else, I disassembled the carburetor and found a tiny piece of debris blocking one of the jets. Once I cleaned it out, the saw ran perfectly.
  • Actionable Takeaway: Regularly clean the carburetor and consider having it professionally tuned if you’re not comfortable doing it yourself.

  • The Culprit: Fuel Line Problems

  • The Problem: Cracked or damaged fuel lines can allow air to enter the fuel system, causing the engine to stall.

  • The Fix: Inspect the fuel lines for cracks or damage. If you find any, replace them.
  • Actionable Takeaway: Replace the fuel lines if you notice any signs of damage or if they seem brittle or cracked.

  • The Culprit: Venting Issues

  • The Problem: The fuel tank needs to vent properly to allow fuel to flow to the carburetor. A clogged or damaged fuel tank vent can create a vacuum in the tank, preventing fuel from flowing and causing the engine to stall.

  • The Fix: Locate the fuel tank vent and make sure it’s clear of debris. If it’s clogged, clean it with a small wire or compressed air.
  • Actionable Takeaway: Regularly check the fuel tank vent and clean it if necessary.

  • The Culprit: Idle Speed Adjustment

  • The Problem: If the idle speed is set too low, the engine may stall when you let off the throttle.

  • The Fix: Locate the idle speed adjustment screw on the carburetor and turn it clockwise to increase the idle speed. Adjust it until the engine idles smoothly without stalling.
  • Actionable Takeaway: Adjust the idle speed as needed to prevent the engine from stalling.

  • The Culprit: Clogged Spark Arrestor

  • The Problem: A spark arrestor is a small screen that prevents sparks from escaping the muffler. Over time, it can become clogged with carbon buildup, restricting exhaust flow and causing the engine to stall.

  • The Fix: Remove the spark arrestor and clean it with a wire brush. If it’s severely clogged, you may need to replace it.
  • Actionable Takeaway: Clean the spark arrestor regularly to maintain proper exhaust flow.

3. Power Loss: Restoring Performance to Your 560XP

A chainsaw that lacks power can make even simple tasks feel like a Herculean effort. It slows you down, puts extra strain on the engine, and can even be dangerous if the saw doesn’t have enough power to cut through the wood safely.

• The Culprit: Dull Chain

  • The Problem: A dull chain is the most common cause of power loss in a chainsaw. A dull chain requires more force to cut through the wood, which puts extra strain on the engine and reduces cutting speed.
  • The Fix: Sharpen the chain regularly using a file or a chain grinder. Make sure to maintain the correct angles and depth gauges. If the chain is severely damaged or worn, replace it.
  • Data Point: Studies have shown that a sharp chain can increase cutting efficiency by up to 50%.
  • Real-World Example: I once watched a crew struggle to fell a large oak tree with a dull chain. They were pushing the saw so hard that it was smoking and bogging down. After sharpening the chain, they were able to fell the tree with ease.
  • Actionable Takeaway: Sharpen the chain regularly and replace it when it becomes worn or damaged.

  • The Culprit: Incorrect Chain Tension

  • The Problem: A chain that is too loose can vibrate and jump off the bar, while a chain that is too tight can bind and reduce cutting speed.

  • The Fix: Adjust the chain tension so that it is snug against the bar but can still be pulled around by hand.
  • Actionable Takeaway: Check and adjust the chain tension regularly, especially when the chain is new.

  • The Culprit: Bar Problems

  • The Problem: A worn or damaged bar can reduce cutting efficiency. A worn bar may have a groove that is too wide or uneven, while a damaged bar may be bent or cracked.

  • The Fix: Inspect the bar regularly for wear or damage. If the groove is too wide or uneven, dress the bar with a bar rail dressing tool. If the bar is bent or cracked, replace it.
  • Actionable Takeaway: Inspect the bar regularly and dress it or replace it as needed.

  • The Culprit: Air Filter (Again!)

  • The Problem: As mentioned before, a clogged air filter restricts airflow to the engine, leading to power loss.

  • The Fix: Clean or replace the air filter regularly, especially when working in dusty conditions.

  • The Culprit: Exhaust Obstruction

  • The Problem: A clogged spark arrestor or a buildup of carbon in the muffler can restrict exhaust flow, leading to power loss.

  • The Fix: Clean the spark arrestor regularly and inspect the muffler for carbon buildup. If the muffler is severely clogged, you may need to have it professionally cleaned or replaced.
  • Actionable Takeaway: Clean the spark arrestor regularly and inspect the muffler for carbon buildup.

4. Chain Oiling Issues: Ensuring Proper Lubrication

Proper chain lubrication is essential for the life of the chain, the bar, and the saw itself. A dry chain will wear out quickly, overheat, and can even cause the bar to seize up.

• The Culprit: Clogged Oil Passage

  • The Problem: The oil passage that delivers oil to the bar can become clogged with debris, preventing proper lubrication.
  • The Fix: Remove the bar and chain and clean the oil passage with a small wire or compressed air.
  • Actionable Takeaway: Clean the oil passage regularly to ensure proper lubrication.

  • The Culprit: Oil Pump Problems

  • The Problem: A faulty oil pump can fail to deliver enough oil to the bar, leading to chain and bar damage.

  • The Fix: Inspect the oil pump for damage. If it’s damaged, replace it.
  • Actionable Takeaway: If you suspect the oil pump is faulty, have it inspected by a professional.

  • The Culprit: Incorrect Oil Viscosity

  • The Problem: Using oil that is too thick or too thin can prevent proper lubrication.

  • The Fix: Use the oil recommended by the manufacturer.
  • Actionable Takeaway: Use the correct oil viscosity for your chainsaw.

  • The Culprit: Clogged Oil Filter

  • The Problem: Some chainsaws have an oil filter that can become clogged with debris, restricting oil flow.

  • The Fix: Locate the oil filter and clean it or replace it as needed.
  • Actionable Takeaway: Check and clean or replace the oil filter regularly.

  • The Culprit: Bar Groove Debris

  • The Problem: Sawdust and debris can pack into the bar groove, preventing oil from reaching the chain.

  • The Fix: Clean the bar groove regularly with a bar groove cleaner or a screwdriver.
  • Actionable Takeaway: Clean the bar groove regularly to ensure proper lubrication.

5. Vibration Problems: Reducing Fatigue and Preventing Injury

Excessive vibration can cause fatigue, reduce cutting accuracy, and even lead to long-term health problems like vibration white finger (VWF).

• The Culprit: Loose Components

  • The Problem: Loose screws, bolts, or other components can cause excessive vibration.
  • The Fix: Inspect the chainsaw regularly and tighten any loose components.
  • Actionable Takeaway: Regularly inspect the chainsaw and tighten any loose components.

  • The Culprit: Damaged Anti-Vibration Mounts

  • The Problem: The anti-vibration mounts are designed to isolate the engine from the handles, reducing vibration. If these mounts are damaged, they will not be able to effectively dampen vibration.

  • The Fix: Inspect the anti-vibration mounts for damage. If they are damaged, replace them.
  • Actionable Takeaway: Inspect the anti-vibration mounts regularly and replace them if they are damaged.

  • The Culprit: Worn Chain

  • The Problem: A worn chain can cause excessive vibration.

  • The Fix: Replace the chain when it becomes worn.
  • Actionable Takeaway: Replace the chain when it becomes worn.

  • The Culprit: Incorrect Chain Tension (Again!)

  • The Problem: A chain that is too loose can vibrate and cause excessive vibration.

  • The Fix: Adjust the chain tension so that it is snug against the bar but can still be pulled around by hand.
  • Actionable Takeaway: Check and adjust the chain tension regularly, especially when the chain is new.

  • The Culprit: Uneven Bar Wear

  • The Problem: If one side of the bar is worn more than the other, it can cause excessive vibration.

  • The Fix: Rotate the bar regularly to ensure even wear. If the bar is severely worn, replace it.
  • Actionable Takeaway: Rotate the bar regularly to ensure even wear.

Beyond the Fixes: Pro Tips for 560XP Longevity

Repairing common issues is only half the battle. Preventing them in the first place is the key to keeping your 560XP running strong for years to come. Here are some of the best practices I’ve learned over the years:

• Master the Art of Chain Sharpening: A sharp chain is not only safer and more efficient, but it also puts less stress on the engine. Learn how to sharpen your chain properly, and make it a habit to sharpen it frequently.
• Regular Maintenance is Key: Don’t wait until something breaks to perform maintenance. Regularly clean the air filter, spark plug, and carburetor. Inspect the fuel lines, oil lines, and anti-vibration mounts. A little preventative maintenance can save you a lot of time and money in the long run.
• Use High-Quality Fuel and Oil: Don’t skimp on fuel and oil. Use high-quality fuel with the correct octane rating and a premium two-stroke oil. This will help to keep the engine clean and lubricated.
• Store Your Chainsaw Properly: When storing your chainsaw for extended periods, drain the fuel tank completely and run the engine until it stalls. This will prevent fuel from gumming up the carburetor. Store the chainsaw in a dry, clean place.
• Don’t Push the Saw Too Hard: Chainsaws are powerful tools, but they are not invincible. Don’t push the saw too hard, especially when cutting through large logs. Let the saw do the work, and avoid forcing it.
• Invest in Quality Safety Gear: Chainsaw work is dangerous. Always wear appropriate safety gear, including a helmet, eye protection, hearing protection, gloves, and chainsaw chaps.
• Know Your Wood: Different wood species have different densities and cutting characteristics. Understanding the wood you’re working with will help you choose the right chain and bar, and avoid overloading the saw. For example, hardwoods like oak and maple require a more aggressive chain than softwoods like pine and fir.
• Listen to Your Saw: Your chainsaw will often give you clues when something is wrong. Pay attention to the sound of the engine, the amount of vibration, and the way the saw cuts. If you notice anything unusual, investigate it before it becomes a major problem.

The Wood Whisperer: My Chainsaw Story

I remember one particularly harsh winter when I was just starting out. I had a contract to supply firewood to a local community, and my trusty (but aging) chainsaw decided to give up the ghost right in the middle of the job. I was stranded in the woods, miles from civilization, with a mountain of logs to process and a deadline looming.

Desperate, I managed to flag down a passing logger who, after hearing my tale of woe, offered to let me borrow his Husqvarna 560XP. I had never used a saw like that before. The power, the balance, the sheer efficiency – it was a revelation. I was able to finish the job in record time, and I learned a valuable lesson about the importance of having the right tool for the job.

That experience not only saved my business but also sparked my lifelong appreciation for Husqvarna chainsaws. And it taught me the importance of understanding how these machines work and how to keep them running smoothly.

Conclusion: Keep Your 560XP Humming

The Husqvarna 560XP is a fantastic chainsaw, but like any tool, it requires proper care and maintenance. By understanding the common issues that can plague this saw and knowing how to fix them, you can keep it running strong for years to come. Remember to use fresh fuel, keep the chain sharp, clean the air filter regularly, and perform preventative maintenance. And don’t be afraid to get your hands dirty – a little bit of elbow grease can go a long way.

I hope these tips and insights have been helpful. Now get out there and make some sawdust! And remember, safety first!

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