Husqvarna 136 Chainsaw Tune-Up Tips (5 Pro Fixes)

Are you tired of your Husqvarna 136 chainsaw sputtering, stalling, or just not performing like it used to? You’re not alone! The Husqvarna 136 is a workhorse, a reliable tool many of us have come to depend on for everything from felling small trees to bucking firewood. But like any machine, it needs regular maintenance to stay in top condition. A proper tune-up can breathe new life into your chainsaw, improving its performance, extending its lifespan, and saving you money on costly repairs down the road.

I’ve spent years working with chainsaws, from maintaining my own fleet for firewood production to advising others on their equipment. I’ve seen firsthand how a well-tuned saw can make all the difference. These “5 Pro Fixes” aren’t just random tips; they’re the core steps I take to keep my Husqvarna 136s running smoothly. Let’s dive in!

Reviving Your Husqvarna 136: 5 Pro Tune-Up Fixes

Here’s a breakdown of the essential steps I take when tuning up a Husqvarna 136 chainsaw. Each step is crucial for optimal performance and longevity.

1. The Spark Plug: Igniting Performance

The spark plug is the heart of your chainsaw’s ignition system. It’s responsible for igniting the air-fuel mixture in the cylinder, creating the power that drives the chain. A fouled or worn spark plug can cause hard starting, poor idling, and reduced power.

Why This Matters: A weak spark translates directly to weak performance. You’ll struggle to start the saw, it might stall frequently, and cutting will be slow and inefficient. Think of it like trying to light a campfire with damp kindling – frustrating and ultimately ineffective.

Step-by-Step Guide:

1. Safety First: Disconnect the spark plug wire. This prevents accidental starting while you’re working.
2. Locate the Spark Plug: On the Husqvarna 136, the spark plug is usually located under a small cover near the cylinder head.
3. Remove the Spark Plug: Use a spark plug wrench (typically a 19mm or 3/4 inch socket) to carefully unscrew the spark plug. Turn it counter-clockwise.
4. Inspect the Spark Plug: Examine the spark plug for wear, carbon buildup, or damage. A healthy spark plug should have a light tan or gray color. Black, oily, or cracked plugs should be replaced.
   • Black and Sooty: Indicates a rich fuel mixture (too much fuel, not enough air).
   • Oily: Indicates oil is leaking into the combustion chamber (worn piston rings or valve seals).
   • White or Light Gray: Indicates a lean fuel mixture (too much air, not enough fuel).
   • Cracked or Damaged: Replace immediately.
5. Clean or Replace: If the spark plug is only slightly dirty, you can try cleaning it with a wire brush or spark plug cleaner. However, I generally recommend replacing the spark plug annually or after every 50 hours of use. A new spark plug is relatively inexpensive and ensures optimal performance. I prefer NGK BPMR7A or Champion RCJ7Y spark plugs for the Husqvarna 136.
6. Gap the Spark Plug: Even a new spark plug may need to be gapped properly. Use a spark plug gapping tool to set the gap to the manufacturer’s specification. For the Husqvarna 136, the gap should be between 0.5mm and 0.6mm (0.020 to 0.024 inches).
7. Install the Spark Plug: Carefully screw the spark plug back into the cylinder head by hand to avoid cross-threading. Then, tighten it with the spark plug wrench to the manufacturer’s torque specification (usually around 15-20 Nm or 11-15 ft-lbs). If you don’t have a torque wrench, tighten it snugly, but don’t overtighten.
8. Reconnect the Spark Plug Wire: Ensure the spark plug wire is securely connected to the spark plug.

Pro Tip: Keep a spare spark plug in your toolkit. It’s a small investment that can save you a lot of downtime in the field. I once spent a whole afternoon stranded in the woods because of a fouled spark plug. Now, I never leave home without a spare!

2. The Air Filter: Breathing Easy for Power

The air filter prevents dirt and debris from entering the engine. A clogged air filter restricts airflow, leading to a rich fuel mixture, reduced power, and increased fuel consumption.

Why This Matters: Think of your air filter as your chainsaw’s lungs. If it’s clogged, the engine can’t breathe properly, leading to sluggish performance and potential engine damage. I’ve seen engines completely ruined by running them with dirty air filters.

Step-by-Step Guide:

1. Locate the Air Filter: The air filter on the Husqvarna 136 is usually located under a cover on top of the engine.
2. Remove the Air Filter Cover: Typically, you’ll need to loosen a screw or two to remove the air filter cover.
3. Remove the Air Filter: Carefully remove the air filter.
4. Inspect the Air Filter: Examine the air filter for dirt, debris, or damage.
5. Clean or Replace:
   • Foam Air Filter: Wash the foam air filter with warm soapy water. Rinse it thoroughly and allow it to air dry completely. Then, lightly oil the filter with air filter oil. Squeeze out any excess oil.
   • Felt or Paper Air Filter: Tap the filter gently to remove loose dirt. You can also use compressed air to blow out the dirt from the inside out. If the filter is heavily soiled or damaged, replace it.
6. Install the Air Filter: Reinstall the air filter, ensuring it’s properly seated.
7. Reinstall the Air Filter Cover: Secure the air filter cover with the screws.

Pro Tip: I clean my chainsaw’s air filter after every 4-5 hours of use, or more frequently if I’m working in dusty conditions. A clean air filter is one of the simplest and most effective ways to maintain your chainsaw’s performance. I once worked on a logging site that was particularly dusty, and I had to clean the air filters on my saws twice a day!

3. The Fuel Filter: Fueling the Fire

The fuel filter prevents dirt and debris from entering the carburetor. A clogged fuel filter restricts fuel flow, leading to hard starting, stalling, and reduced power.

Why This Matters: The fuel filter is your chainsaw’s lifeline to its fuel source. A clogged filter starves the engine, causing it to run poorly or not at all. I’ve seen chainsaws that wouldn’t even start because of a completely blocked fuel filter.

Step-by-Step Guide:

1. Locate the Fuel Filter: The fuel filter is located inside the fuel tank, attached to the end of the fuel line.
2. Empty the Fuel Tank: Drain the fuel tank completely. This will prevent fuel from spilling when you remove the filter.
3. Remove the Fuel Filter: Use a small hook or bent wire to reach into the fuel tank and pull out the fuel line. The fuel filter will be attached to the end of the line.
4. Inspect the Fuel Filter: Examine the fuel filter for dirt, debris, or damage.
5. Replace the Fuel Filter: I always recommend replacing the fuel filter annually. They are inexpensive and ensure a clean fuel supply.
6. Install the New Fuel Filter: Attach the new fuel filter to the end of the fuel line.
7. Reinstall the Fuel Line: Carefully insert the fuel line back into the fuel tank.
8. Refuel the Tank: Fill the fuel tank with the correct fuel mixture (typically a 50:1 ratio of gasoline to 2-stroke oil for the Husqvarna 136 – but always check your owner’s manual).

Pro Tip: When replacing the fuel filter, I also inspect the fuel lines for cracks or damage. Old fuel lines can become brittle and crack, leading to fuel leaks and poor performance. Replacing them at the same time as the fuel filter is a good preventative measure. I had a fuel line crack on me once while I was deep in the woods. It was a messy and inconvenient situation that could have been avoided with a simple inspection and replacement.

4. The Carburetor: Fine-Tuning the Engine

The carburetor mixes air and fuel in the correct proportions to create a combustible mixture. Over time, the carburetor can become dirty or the settings can drift, leading to poor performance.

Why This Matters: The carburetor is the brain of your chainsaw’s fuel system. It controls the amount of fuel and air that enters the engine. If it’s not properly adjusted, the engine won’t run efficiently, leading to poor performance, excessive fuel consumption, and potential engine damage.

Step-by-Step Guide (Basic Adjustment):

Note: Carburetor adjustment can be complex. If you’re not comfortable with this process, it’s best to take your chainsaw to a qualified service technician.

1. Locate the Carburetor Adjustment Screws: The carburetor adjustment screws are typically located on the side of the carburetor. There are usually three screws:
   • L (Low-Speed): Controls the fuel mixture at idle and low speeds.
   • H (High-Speed): Controls the fuel mixture at high speeds.
   • LA (Idle Speed): Controls the engine’s idle speed.
2. Warm Up the Engine: Start the chainsaw and let it warm up for a few minutes.
3. Adjust the Idle Speed (LA): Turn the LA screw until the engine idles smoothly without stalling or the chain spinning.
4. Adjust the Low-Speed (L): Turn the L screw slowly until the engine accelerates smoothly from idle to full throttle. If the engine hesitates or bogs down, the mixture is too lean (not enough fuel). Turn the L screw counter-clockwise to richen the mixture. If the engine smokes or runs rough, the mixture is too rich (too much fuel). Turn the L screw clockwise to lean the mixture.
5. Adjust the High-Speed (H): This adjustment is more complex and requires experience. The goal is to find the optimal setting for maximum power without damaging the engine. Start by turning the H screw to the recommended factory setting (check your owner’s manual). Then, make small adjustments while running the chainsaw under load (e.g., cutting a piece of wood). Listen to the engine. If it sounds strained or weak, the mixture is too lean. Turn the H screw counter-clockwise to richen the mixture. If the engine smokes or runs rough, the mixture is too rich. Turn the H screw clockwise to lean the mixture.
6. Test and Fine-Tune: After making adjustments, test the chainsaw’s performance by cutting wood. Fine-tune the adjustments as needed until the engine runs smoothly and efficiently.

Pro Tip: I use a tachometer to accurately set the high-speed (H) setting. This helps prevent over-revving the engine, which can cause serious damage. The Husqvarna 136 typically has a maximum RPM of around 12,500 RPM. Also, remember that altitude and temperature can affect carburetor settings. You may need to readjust the carburetor if you’re working in different conditions. I once had to completely readjust my carburetors when I moved from sea level to a mountain location.

Carburetor Cleaning:

Sometimes, simply adjusting the carburetor isn’t enough. If the carburetor is dirty or clogged, it may need to be cleaned.

Step-by-Step Guide (Basic Cleaning):

Note: This is a simplified cleaning process. A complete carburetor overhaul requires specialized tools and knowledge.

1. Remove the Air Filter and Carburetor Cover: Access the carburetor.
2. Disconnect Fuel Lines: Carefully disconnect the fuel lines from the carburetor.
3. Remove the Carburetor: Unscrew the carburetor mounting bolts and remove the carburetor.
4. Disassemble the Carburetor (Partially): Remove the carburetor bowl and any easily accessible jets. Do not disassemble the carburetor completely unless you have experience and a repair manual.
5. Clean the Components: Use carburetor cleaner to clean the carburetor body, bowl, and jets. Pay close attention to the small passages and orifices. Use compressed air to blow out any remaining debris.
6. Reassemble the Carburetor: Reassemble the carburetor components.
7. Reinstall the Carburetor: Reinstall the carburetor onto the engine.
8. Reconnect Fuel Lines: Reconnect the fuel lines.
9. Adjust the Carburetor: Adjust the carburetor settings as described above.

Pro Tip: When cleaning the carburetor, I use a set of carburetor cleaning needles to clear any clogged passages. These needles are very small and delicate, so be careful not to damage the carburetor. Also, always use fresh fuel and a fuel stabilizer to prevent future carburetor problems. Fuel stabilizers help prevent the formation of gum and varnish in the fuel system.

5. Bar and Chain Maintenance: The Cutting Edge

A sharp and properly maintained bar and chain are essential for efficient and safe cutting. A dull chain requires more effort to cut, puts more strain on the engine, and increases the risk of kickback.

Why This Matters: The bar and chain are the tools that actually do the cutting. A dull chain is like trying to cut wood with a butter knife – inefficient, frustrating, and potentially dangerous. A properly maintained bar and chain will make your chainsaw cut faster, smoother, and safer.

Step-by-Step Guide:

1. Chain Sharpening:
   • Visual Inspection: Examine the chain for damage, such as broken or missing teeth.
   • Sharpening Angle: Use a chainsaw file and guide to sharpen the chain at the correct angle (typically 30 degrees for the top plate and 60 degrees for the side plate). Refer to your chainsaw’s manual for the specific angles.
   • Consistent Strokes: Use smooth, consistent strokes to sharpen each tooth. Maintain the same angle and depth for each tooth.
   • Depth Gauges: Check the depth gauges (the small metal tabs in front of each cutting tooth). If they are too high, they will prevent the chain from cutting effectively. Use a depth gauge tool to file them down to the correct height.
2. Bar Maintenance:
   • Cleaning: Clean the bar groove with a bar groove cleaner or a screwdriver to remove dirt and debris.
   • Filing: File any burrs or damage on the bar rails with a flat file.
   • Trueness: Check the bar for straightness. If it’s bent, it can cause the chain to bind and wear unevenly.
   • Lubrication Hole: Ensure the bar lubrication hole is clear.
3. Chain Tension:
   • Check Tension: Check the chain tension regularly. The chain should be snug against the bar but still able to be pulled around by hand.
   • Adjust Tension: Adjust the chain tension using the chain tensioning screw. Refer to your chainsaw’s manual for the correct procedure.
4. Lubrication:
   • Chain Oil: Use a high-quality chain oil to lubricate the bar and chain.
   • Oil Level: Check the chain oil level regularly and refill as needed.
   • Oil Output: Ensure the chainsaw is properly oiling the bar and chain. You should see a fine spray of oil coming off the chain when it’s running.

Pro Tip: I sharpen my chainsaw chain every time I refuel. This ensures that I’m always cutting with a sharp chain. I also rotate my bars regularly to prevent uneven wear. I have a jig that helps me maintain the correct sharpening angles consistently. Also, be aware of the type of wood you’re cutting. Cutting dirty or abrasive wood will dull the chain faster. When cutting hardwoods like oak or maple, I often use a different chain designed for those materials.

Beyond the Basics: Advanced Tips and Considerations

While the “5 Pro Fixes” cover the essential tune-up steps, there are a few additional considerations that can further improve your Husqvarna 136’s performance and lifespan.

• Fuel Quality: Always use fresh, high-quality gasoline with the correct octane rating. Old or contaminated fuel can cause a variety of problems, including hard starting, poor performance, and engine damage. I always use premium fuel and add a fuel stabilizer to prevent fuel degradation.
• Two-Stroke Oil: Use a high-quality two-stroke oil specifically designed for air-cooled engines. The correct oil-to-fuel ratio is crucial for proper lubrication. Using the wrong oil or the wrong ratio can cause engine damage. I prefer synthetic two-stroke oils for their superior lubrication and reduced smoke.
• Storage: When storing your chainsaw for extended periods, drain the fuel tank and run the engine until it stalls. This will prevent fuel from gumming up the carburetor. I also remove the spark plug and add a few drops of two-stroke oil to the cylinder to prevent corrosion. Store the chainsaw in a dry, protected location.
• Regular Maintenance: Perform regular maintenance on your chainsaw, including checking the bar and chain, cleaning the air filter, and replacing the fuel filter. This will help prevent problems and extend the lifespan of your chainsaw.
• Professional Service: If you’re not comfortable performing any of these tune-up steps yourself, take your chainsaw to a qualified service technician. They have the tools, knowledge, and experience to properly diagnose and repair any problems.

A Case Study: Reviving a Neglected Husqvarna 136

I once acquired a used Husqvarna 136 that had been severely neglected. It was covered in dirt and grime, the chain was dull and rusty, and the engine wouldn’t even start. I decided to give it a complete overhaul.

Here’s what I did:

1. Thorough Cleaning: I started by cleaning the entire chainsaw with a degreaser and a brush.
2. Spark Plug Replacement: I replaced the spark plug with a new one.
3. Air Filter Cleaning: I cleaned the air filter with warm soapy water and re-oiled it.
4. Fuel Filter Replacement: I replaced the fuel filter.
5. Carburetor Cleaning: I disassembled and cleaned the carburetor.
6. Bar and Chain Sharpening: I sharpened the chain and cleaned the bar.
7. Fuel Line Replacement: I replaced the fuel lines, as they were cracked and brittle.
8. Carburetor Adjustment: I adjusted the carburetor settings.

After completing these steps, the Husqvarna 136 started right up and ran like new. It was a testament to the power of regular maintenance and a little bit of elbow grease.

Safety First: Protecting Yourself

Working with chainsaws can be dangerous. Always wear appropriate safety gear, including:

• Eye Protection: Safety glasses or a face shield to protect your eyes from flying debris.
• Hearing Protection: Earplugs or earmuffs to protect your hearing from the loud noise of the chainsaw.
• Gloves: Heavy-duty gloves to protect your hands.
• Chaps: Chainsaw chaps to protect your legs from accidental cuts.
• Boots: Steel-toed boots to protect your feet.

Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions for operating and maintaining your chainsaw. Never operate a chainsaw while under the influence of drugs or alcohol.

The Strategic Advantage of a Well-Tuned Chainsaw

Beyond just keeping your chainsaw running, a proper tune-up offers strategic advantages in wood processing and firewood preparation:

• Increased Efficiency: A well-tuned chainsaw cuts faster and smoother, allowing you to process more wood in less time. This translates to increased productivity and reduced labor costs.
• Reduced Fuel Consumption: A properly tuned chainsaw burns fuel more efficiently, saving you money on fuel costs.
• Extended Lifespan: Regular maintenance and tune-ups can significantly extend the lifespan of your chainsaw, protecting your investment.
• Improved Safety: A well-maintained chainsaw is less likely to malfunction, reducing the risk of accidents.
• Higher Quality Firewood: A sharp chain produces cleaner cuts, resulting in higher quality firewood that dries faster and burns more efficiently.

Next Steps: Putting Knowledge into Action

Now that you’ve learned the “5 Pro Fixes” for tuning up your Husqvarna 136 chainsaw, it’s time to put that knowledge into action.

1. Gather Your Tools: Assemble the necessary tools and supplies, including a spark plug wrench, air filter cleaner, fuel filter, carburetor cleaner, chainsaw file, bar groove cleaner, and chain oil.
2. Inspect Your Chainsaw: Carefully inspect your chainsaw for any signs of wear, damage, or neglect.
3. Perform the Tune-Up Steps: Follow the step-by-step guides outlined above to perform each of the “5 Pro Fixes.”
4. Test Your Chainsaw: After completing the tune-up, start your chainsaw and test its performance by cutting wood.
5. Regular Maintenance: Make regular maintenance and tune-ups a part of your routine. This will help keep your chainsaw running smoothly and efficiently for years to come.

By following these steps, you can keep your Husqvarna 136 chainsaw in top condition and enjoy years of reliable service. Remember, a well-tuned chainsaw is a valuable tool that can help you accomplish your wood processing and firewood preparation goals safely and efficiently. Now, get out there and put those pro fixes to work!

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