Echo CS-590 Chainsaw Review (5 Pro Tips for Truck Saws)

Have you ever stood in the biting wind, the scent of pine heavy in the air, wrestling with a stubborn log that just wouldn’t split? I have. More times than I care to admit. There’s a certain primal satisfaction that comes from transforming a raw piece of wood into something useful, something that will warm a home or fuel a creative project. But that satisfaction can quickly turn to frustration if you’re fighting your equipment. That’s why choosing the right chainsaw is crucial. And for those of us who need a reliable, powerful workhorse, the Echo CS-590 Timber Wolf often comes to mind.

Today, I’m not just going to give you a dry review of the Echo CS-590. I’m going to share five pro tips I’ve learned over years of using this saw – tips specifically tailored for those of us who rely on our chainsaws out in the field, whether we’re logging, clearing land, or prepping firewood. I’ll weave in personal stories, data-backed insights, and actionable advice to help you get the most out of this saw, and perhaps more importantly, out of your time and energy. This isn’t just about the Echo CS-590; it’s about optimizing your entire workflow, from selecting sustainable timber to stacking wood for efficient drying. Consider this your guide to making the Echo CS-590 a true extension of your own two hands.

Echo CS-590 Chainsaw Review (5 Pro Tips for Truck Saws)

1. Mastering the Art of the “Truck Saw” Mentality: Choosing the Right Bar and Chain Combination

The Echo CS-590 is a powerful saw, no doubt. But raw power alone doesn’t guarantee efficiency. The key to unlocking its full potential lies in selecting the right bar and chain combination for the specific tasks you’re tackling. This is especially crucial for a “truck saw,” a saw that’s expected to handle a diverse range of jobs.

• The Stock Bar: The CS-590 typically comes with a 20-inch bar. This is a good all-around length, suitable for felling medium-sized trees and bucking logs up to around 18 inches in diameter.

• Going Longer (and Why You Might Not Want To): I’ve seen guys slap on a 24-inch bar, thinking bigger is always better. While a longer bar can handle larger diameter trees, it also significantly reduces the saw’s power and maneuverability. You’ll bog down more easily, especially in hardwoods. Plus, a longer bar increases the risk of kickback if you’re not careful.

• My Preferred Setup: For most truck saw applications, I stick with the 20-inch bar. However, I have a 18-inch bar that I use for limbing and smaller firewood prep. This shorter bar makes the saw lighter and more nimble, allowing for faster and more precise cuts.

• Chain Selection is Key: Equally important is the chain. I strongly recommend a full-chisel chain for maximum cutting speed and efficiency. While a semi-chisel chain is more forgiving in dirty conditions, it sacrifices cutting performance. For really dirty wood, consider a skip-tooth chain. The fewer teeth, the less often you need to sharpen the chain. However, the cut will be less smooth.

  • Data Point: A study by Oregon Products found that using a full-chisel chain can increase cutting speed by up to 20% compared to a semi-chisel chain, especially in clean wood.

• Personal Experience: I once spent an entire day struggling to buck a pile of oak logs with a dull semi-chisel chain on my CS-590. The saw kept bogging down, and I was exhausted by the end of the day. The next day, I swapped to a sharp full-chisel chain, and the difference was night and day. I finished the job in half the time, with far less effort.

• Actionable Tip: Invest in multiple chains and learn how to sharpen them properly. A sharp chain is not only more efficient but also safer. Carry a chain filing kit in your truck and touch up your chain frequently.

2. Optimizing Fuel and Oil: The Lifeblood of Your CS-590

The Echo CS-590 is a two-stroke engine, meaning it requires a mixture of gasoline and oil to run properly. Getting this mixture right is crucial for engine performance and longevity. Skimping on quality or getting the ratio wrong can lead to serious engine damage.

• The Correct Ratio: The recommended fuel-to-oil ratio for the CS-590 is 50:1. This means 50 parts gasoline to 1 part oil. Use a high-quality two-stroke oil specifically designed for air-cooled engines.

• Fuel Quality Matters: Don’t skimp on fuel. Use a high-octane gasoline (89 or higher) to prevent engine knocking and ensure smooth operation. Avoid using gasoline that has been sitting around for more than a month or two, as it can degrade and cause starting problems.

• Ethanol Concerns: Ethanol-blended gasoline can be a major headache for small engines. Ethanol can absorb water, leading to fuel separation and corrosion of engine components. If possible, use ethanol-free gasoline. If you must use ethanol-blended fuel, add a fuel stabilizer to help prevent fuel degradation.

  • Expert Quote: According to a study by the Outdoor Power Equipment Institute (OPEI), over 70% of small engine failures are caused by improper fuel use.

• Bar and Chain Oil: Don’t overlook the importance of using a high-quality bar and chain oil. This oil lubricates the chain and bar, reducing friction and wear. I prefer using a bar and chain oil with a tackifier additive, which helps the oil cling to the chain and bar, providing better lubrication.

• Personal Experience: I once neglected to check the bar and chain oil level on my CS-590 while felling a large oak tree. The chain ran dry, and the bar quickly overheated, causing it to warp. I learned my lesson the hard way – always check your oil levels before each use.

• Actionable Tip: Mix your fuel and oil in a separate container, not directly in the saw’s fuel tank. This ensures a consistent and accurate mixture. Use a fuel can with a built-in measuring device for convenience.

3. Sharpening Like a Pro: Maintaining Your Cutting Edge

A dull chainsaw is a dangerous chainsaw. It requires more force to cut, increasing the risk of kickback and operator fatigue. A sharp chain, on the other hand, cuts smoothly and efficiently, making your job easier and safer.

• The Basics of Chain Sharpening: You’ll need a chain filing kit, which typically includes a round file, a flat file, a depth gauge tool, and a file guide. The round file is used to sharpen the cutting teeth, the flat file is used to lower the depth gauges, and the file guide helps you maintain the correct filing angle.

• Filing Angle and Depth: The correct filing angle is typically marked on the chain or in the chainsaw’s owner’s manual. Maintaining the correct angle is crucial for ensuring that the chain cuts efficiently. The depth gauges control how much the cutting teeth bite into the wood. If the depth gauges are too high, the chain will not cut effectively. If they are too low, the chain will be aggressive and prone to kickback.

• Step-by-Step Sharpening:

  1. Secure the chainsaw in a vise or on a stump.
  2. Identify the shortest cutter on the chain. This will be your guide for sharpening all the other cutters.
  3. Place the file guide on the cutter, ensuring that the file is at the correct angle and depth.
  4. File the cutter with smooth, even strokes, always filing towards the outside of the cutter.
  5. Repeat this process for all the cutters on the chain.
  6. Use the flat file and depth gauge tool to lower the depth gauges to the correct height.

• Using a Chainsaw Sharpener: For those who prefer a more automated approach, a chainsaw sharpener can be a worthwhile investment. These sharpeners use a grinding wheel to sharpen the cutting teeth, making the process faster and more consistent.

• Personal Experience: I used to dread sharpening my chainsaw. I always seemed to get the angles wrong, and the chain never cut quite right. But after watching a few videos and practicing regularly, I finally got the hang of it. Now, I can sharpen a chain in about 15 minutes, and the difference in cutting performance is remarkable.

• Actionable Tip: Sharpen your chain frequently. A few strokes with a file after each tank of gas can make a big difference in cutting performance and prevent you from having to do a major sharpening job later.

4. Mastering Felling Techniques: Safety First!

Felling a tree is one of the most dangerous tasks you can perform with a chainsaw. It requires careful planning, proper technique, and a healthy dose of respect for the power of nature. Never underestimate the importance of safety when felling trees.

• Pre-Felling Assessment: Before you even start your chainsaw, take the time to assess the tree and its surroundings. Look for:

  • Lean: Which way is the tree naturally leaning?
  • Wind: How is the wind affecting the tree?
  • Dead Limbs: Are there any dead limbs that could fall unexpectedly?
  • Obstacles: Are there any obstacles in the tree’s path, such as power lines, buildings, or other trees?
  • Escape Route: Plan your escape route in advance. You should have a clear path away from the tree at a 45-degree angle to the direction of the fall.

• The Notch Cut: The notch cut determines the direction in which the tree will fall. It should be made at a 45-degree angle on the side of the tree facing the direction you want it to fall. The notch should be deep enough to reach about one-third of the way through the tree.

• The Back Cut: The back cut is made on the opposite side of the tree from the notch cut. It should be made slightly above the notch cut, leaving a hinge of wood to control the fall of the tree.

• The Hinge: The hinge is the most important part of the felling process. It controls the direction and speed of the fall. The hinge should be thick enough to prevent the tree from falling prematurely, but thin enough to allow the tree to fall in the desired direction.

• Using Wedges: In some cases, you may need to use wedges to help direct the fall of the tree. Wedges are inserted into the back cut to push the tree in the desired direction.

• Communication is Key: If you’re working with a partner, clear and concise communication is essential. Use hand signals to communicate your intentions and ensure that everyone is aware of the potential hazards.

  • Data Point: According to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), logging is one of the most dangerous occupations in the United States, with a fatality rate over 20 times higher than the national average.

• Personal Experience: I once witnessed a near-fatal accident while felling a tree. A logger failed to properly assess the tree’s lean and made an inadequate notch cut. The tree fell in the wrong direction, narrowly missing him. It was a stark reminder of the importance of following proper felling techniques.

• Actionable Tip: Take a professional tree felling course. This will provide you with the knowledge and skills you need to fell trees safely and efficiently.

5. Truck Saw Maintenance: Keeping Your CS-590 Running Strong

A well-maintained chainsaw is a reliable chainsaw. Regular maintenance will not only extend the life of your CS-590 but also ensure that it performs optimally and safely.

• Daily Maintenance:

  • Check the fuel and oil levels.
  • Sharpen the chain.
  • Clean the air filter.
  • Inspect the bar and chain for damage.
  • Grease the sprocket tip (if applicable).

• Weekly Maintenance:

  • Clean the spark plug.
  • Inspect the fuel filter.
  • Inspect the recoil starter.
  • Check the chain brake.

• Monthly Maintenance:

  • Clean the carburetor.
  • Inspect the fuel lines.
  • Check the AV (anti-vibration) mounts.

• Seasonal Maintenance:

  • Replace the spark plug.
  • Replace the fuel filter.
  • Clean the muffler.
  • Inspect the cylinder and piston for wear.

• Troubleshooting Common Problems:

  • Saw won’t start: Check the fuel, spark plug, and air filter.
  • Saw runs poorly: Clean the carburetor and adjust the idle speed.
  • Chain won’t oil: Check the oil level and clean the oiler.

  • Chain is dull: Sharpen the chain or replace it.

  • Statistic: Proper chainsaw maintenance can extend the lifespan of the saw by as much as 50%.

• Personal Experience: I once neglected to clean the air filter on my CS-590 for several weeks. The engine started running poorly, and I eventually had to replace the carburetor. It was a costly mistake that could have been avoided with regular maintenance.

• Actionable Tip: Keep a maintenance log for your CS-590. This will help you keep track of when you performed each maintenance task and identify any potential problems early on.

Bonus Tip: Sustainable Timber Sourcing

As stewards of the land, it’s our responsibility to ensure that we’re harvesting timber sustainably. This means selecting timber from sustainably managed forests, minimizing waste, and replanting trees to ensure that future generations can enjoy the benefits of our forests.

• Choosing Sustainable Timber: Look for timber that is certified by the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) or other reputable certification organizations. These certifications ensure that the timber has been harvested in a sustainable manner.

• Minimizing Waste: Use the entire tree whenever possible. Smaller branches can be used for firewood or mulch. Sawdust can be used for composting or animal bedding.

• Replanting Trees: Replant trees after harvesting timber to ensure that the forest regenerates. Choose tree species that are native to the area and well-suited to the local climate.

• Case Study: A local firewood producer in my area has implemented a sustainable timber sourcing program. They only harvest timber from sustainably managed forests and replant trees after each harvest. As a result, they have been able to maintain a consistent supply of high-quality firewood while protecting the environment.

Advanced Techniques: Workflow Optimization for Firewood Preparation

Beyond the CS-590 itself, optimizing your entire workflow can dramatically increase your efficiency and reduce fatigue. I’ve spent years refining my process, and these are some of the techniques that have made the biggest difference:

• Log Handling Efficiency: The way you handle logs can make or break your back. Investing in simple tools like log tongs, cant hooks, and even a good peavey can significantly reduce the amount of lifting and dragging you have to do.

  • Data Point: Studies have shown that using log handling tools can reduce physical strain by up to 30%.

• The Importance of Log Stacking: How you stack your firewood directly impacts its drying time. Proper airflow is essential for reducing moisture content. Stack logs in rows with adequate spacing between each row. Elevate the bottom row off the ground using pallets or scrap wood.

• Drying Methods and Timelines: Air-drying is the most common method for drying firewood. The drying time varies depending on the species of wood, the climate, and the stacking method. Typically, it takes 6-12 months to dry firewood properly. Kiln-drying is a faster but more expensive option.

  • Quality Metrics: The ideal moisture content for firewood is below 20%. You can use a moisture meter to check the moisture content of your firewood.

• Splitting Techniques: The right splitting tool can save you a lot of time and energy. A good splitting maul is essential for splitting larger logs. For smaller logs, a splitting axe or even a hydraulic log splitter can be more efficient.

  • Productivity Improvements: Hydraulic log splitters can significantly increase your productivity, allowing you to split several cords of wood in a single day.

• Case Study: I helped a friend optimize his firewood preparation workflow. By implementing log handling tools, improving his log stacking method, and investing in a hydraulic log splitter, he was able to double his production capacity while reducing his physical strain.

Conclusion: Unleash the Timber Wolf Within

The Echo CS-590 Timber Wolf is a capable and reliable chainsaw, but its true potential is unlocked through proper usage, maintenance, and a strategic approach to your wood processing projects. By mastering the techniques I’ve shared – from choosing the right bar and chain to optimizing your fuel and oil mixture to sharpening like a pro – you can transform this saw into a true extension of your own two hands.

Remember, safety is paramount. Always wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE), including a helmet, eye protection, hearing protection, gloves, and chaps. Take a professional tree felling course and never underestimate the power of nature.

Here are your key takeaways:

• Bar and Chain Selection: Choose the right bar and chain combination for the specific tasks you’re tackling.
• Fuel and Oil: Use high-quality fuel and oil at the correct ratio.
• Sharpening: Sharpen your chain frequently to maintain optimal cutting performance.
• Felling Techniques: Follow proper felling techniques to ensure your safety.
• Maintenance: Perform regular maintenance to extend the life of your chainsaw.
• Sustainable Timber Sourcing: Choose timber from sustainably managed forests.
• Workflow Optimization: Optimize your entire workflow to increase your efficiency and reduce fatigue.

Next Steps:

1. Review your current chainsaw setup and identify any areas for improvement.
2. Invest in the necessary tools and equipment to optimize your workflow.
3. Take a professional tree felling course.
4. Implement a regular maintenance schedule for your chainsaw.
5. Start practicing the techniques I’ve shared and refine your process over time.

Now go out there, embrace the challenge, and unleash the Timber Wolf within! I hope you’ll find these tips invaluable as you tackle your next wood processing or firewood preparation project. Remember, the journey of a thousand cords begins with a single cut.

Learn more