Husqvarna 350 Chainsaw Price (5 Repair Tips for Woodcutting Pros)

As a seasoned woodcutter, I’ve spent countless hours felling trees, processing logs, and preparing firewood. Over the years, I’ve developed a keen understanding of the tools and techniques required to get the job done safely and efficiently. One chainsaw that has consistently proven its worth in my arsenal is the Husqvarna 350. It’s a workhorse, reliable and powerful enough for a wide range of tasks, from limbing branches to felling medium-sized trees. In this guide, I’ll share my insights into the Husqvarna 350, including its price, common issues, and, most importantly, my top five repair tips to keep it running smoothly.

Husqvarna 350 Chainsaw: A Woodcutter’s Companion

The Husqvarna 350 chainsaw has earned its reputation for being a versatile and dependable tool. It’s a popular choice among both hobbyists and professional woodcutters for its balance of power, weight, and ease of use. I’ve personally used it in diverse environments, from dense forests to open fields, and it has always delivered consistent performance.

Understanding the Husqvarna 350 Price Point

The price of a Husqvarna 350 chainsaw can vary depending on several factors, including:

• Retailer: Prices can differ between online retailers, local hardware stores, and authorized Husqvarna dealers.
• Condition: New chainsaws will naturally cost more than used or refurbished models.
• Location: Prices can also fluctuate based on regional market conditions and local taxes.

Generally, you can expect to find a new Husqvarna 350 (if still available as new old stock, as it’s technically discontinued) in the range of $300 to $450. Used models can be found for significantly less, but it’s crucial to inspect them thoroughly before purchasing.

Expert Pick: In my opinion, investing in a slightly more expensive, well-maintained used Husqvarna 350 from a reputable source is often a better option than buying a cheap, unreliable chainsaw from an unknown brand. The Husqvarna 350’s durability and readily available parts make it a worthwhile investment in the long run.

Five Essential Repair Tips for Husqvarna 350 Chainsaw

Even the most reliable chainsaws require regular maintenance and occasional repairs. Over the years, I’ve encountered my fair share of issues with my Husqvarna 350. Here are my top five repair tips to keep your Husqvarna 350 running like a champ:

1. Mastering Carburetor Adjustments

The carburetor is the heart of your chainsaw’s engine, responsible for mixing air and fuel in the correct proportions. An improperly adjusted carburetor can lead to a variety of problems, including:

• Difficult starting: The engine may struggle to start, or may only start after multiple attempts.
• Poor idling: The engine may stall or run erratically at idle.
• Lack of power: The engine may not produce enough power, especially when cutting through dense wood.
• Excessive smoke: The engine may produce excessive smoke, indicating an overly rich fuel mixture.

Understanding the Carburetor Screws

The Husqvarna 350 carburetor typically has three adjustment screws:

• L (Low-speed): Controls the fuel mixture at idle and low speeds.
• H (High-speed): Controls the fuel mixture at high speeds.
• T (Idle speed): Adjusts the engine’s idle speed.

The Adjustment Process

1. Warm-up: Start the engine and let it warm up for a few minutes.
2. Idle Speed Adjustment: Turn the “T” screw clockwise to increase the idle speed or counterclockwise to decrease it. The goal is to achieve a smooth, stable idle without the chain moving.
3. Low-Speed Adjustment: Turn the “L” screw slowly clockwise until the engine starts to stumble or die. Then, turn it counterclockwise until the engine runs smoothly at idle and accelerates cleanly when you engage the throttle.
4. High-Speed Adjustment: This adjustment is best left to experienced users or professionals. If you’re confident in your abilities, carefully turn the “H” screw to achieve maximum power without causing the engine to bog down or overheat. I recommend making small adjustments (1/8 turn) at a time and listening carefully to the engine’s sound.

Data Point: A properly adjusted carburetor can improve fuel efficiency by up to 15% and extend the engine’s lifespan by reducing wear and tear.

Safety First: Always wear appropriate safety gear, including gloves and eye protection, when working on your chainsaw.

2. Cleaning or Replacing the Air Filter

A clean air filter is essential for maintaining optimal engine performance. A clogged air filter restricts airflow, causing the engine to run rich (too much fuel) and leading to:

• Reduced power: The engine may lack the power to cut through wood effectively.
• Increased fuel consumption: The engine will consume more fuel than usual.
• Engine overheating: The engine may overheat due to the restricted airflow.
• Difficult starting: The engine may be difficult to start.

Cleaning the Air Filter

1. Remove the air filter cover: Locate the air filter cover on your Husqvarna 350 and remove it.
2. Remove the air filter: Carefully remove the air filter from its housing.
3. Clean the air filter: Use compressed air to blow out any dirt or debris from the filter. You can also wash the filter with warm, soapy water. Be sure to let it dry completely before reinstalling it.
4. Reinstall the air filter: Place the clean air filter back into its housing and reinstall the air filter cover.

Replacing the Air Filter

If the air filter is damaged or excessively dirty, it’s best to replace it with a new one. Husqvarna recommends replacing the air filter every 25 hours of use or more frequently in dusty conditions.

Material Specification: Use only genuine Husqvarna air filters or high-quality aftermarket filters designed specifically for the Husqvarna 350.

Personalized Story: I once spent an entire day struggling to cut through a large oak log. I was convinced that my chainsaw was failing. After a thorough inspection, I discovered that the air filter was completely clogged with sawdust. After cleaning the filter, my Husqvarna 350 roared back to life, and I was able to finish the job in no time. This experience taught me the importance of regular air filter maintenance.

3. Sharpening the Chain with Precision

A sharp chain is crucial for safe and efficient woodcutting. A dull chain requires more force to cut through wood, increasing the risk of kickback and leading to:

• Slower cutting speed: It will take longer to cut through wood.
• Increased fatigue: You will tire more quickly due to the extra effort required.
• Uneven cuts: The cuts may be jagged or uneven.
• Increased wear and tear on the chainsaw: The engine and chain will be under more stress.

Tools for Sharpening

• Round file: Use a round file that matches the size of the chain’s cutters. For the Husqvarna 350, a 5/32″ (4.0 mm) file is typically recommended.
• File guide: A file guide helps maintain the correct filing angle and depth.
• Flat file: Use a flat file to adjust the depth gauges (rakers).
• Depth gauge tool: A depth gauge tool helps ensure that the depth gauges are set to the correct height.

The Sharpening Process

1. Secure the chainsaw: Secure the chainsaw in a vise or on a stable surface.
2. Identify the correct filing angle: The correct filing angle is typically marked on the chain’s cutters.
3. File each cutter: Using the round file and file guide, file each cutter at the correct angle, using smooth, consistent strokes. File from the inside of the cutter towards the outside.
4. Adjust the depth gauges: Use the flat file and depth gauge tool to adjust the depth gauges (rakers) to the correct height. The depth gauges should be slightly lower than the cutters.
5. Check your work: After sharpening, inspect the chain to ensure that all the cutters are sharp and the depth gauges are properly adjusted.

Chain Filing Angles and Guidelines

Log Dimensions: The size of the log you are cutting also affects the chain’s performance. Larger logs require a sharper chain and a more aggressive cutting technique.

Insight: A well-sharpened chain will “pull” itself through the wood, requiring minimal effort on your part. If you have to force the chainsaw through the wood, it’s time to sharpen the chain.

4. Maintaining the Spark Plug

The spark plug ignites the air-fuel mixture in the engine, initiating the combustion process. A faulty spark plug can cause:

• Difficult starting: The engine may be difficult to start, or may not start at all.
• Poor engine performance: The engine may run rough or lack power.
• Misfires: The engine may misfire, causing it to run unevenly.

Inspecting the Spark Plug

1. Remove the spark plug: Locate the spark plug on your Husqvarna 350 and remove it using a spark plug wrench.

2. Inspect the spark plug: Examine the spark plug for signs of wear, damage, or fouling.

   • Normal: The spark plug should be tan or light gray in color.
   • Fouled: A black, oily spark plug indicates a rich fuel mixture or excessive oil consumption.
   • Overheated: A white or blistered spark plug indicates a lean fuel mixture or engine overheating.
   • Worn: A spark plug with rounded electrodes indicates that it needs to be replaced.
   • Clean the spark plug: If the spark plug is fouled, clean it with a wire brush or spark plug cleaner.
   • Check the gap: Use a spark plug gap tool to ensure that the gap between the electrodes is correct. The recommended gap for the Husqvarna 350 is typically 0.020″ (0.5 mm).
   • Reinstall the spark plug: Reinstall the spark plug and tighten it to the manufacturer’s specifications.

Replacing the Spark Plug

If the spark plug is worn or damaged, it’s best to replace it with a new one. Husqvarna recommends replacing the spark plug every 100 hours of use or annually, whichever comes first.

Technical Limitations: Using the wrong type of spark plug or setting the gap incorrectly can damage the engine. Always consult the owner’s manual for the correct spark plug type and gap specifications.

Unique Insight: The color of the spark plug can tell you a lot about the engine’s condition. By regularly inspecting the spark plug, you can identify potential problems early on and prevent more serious damage.

5. Fuel and Oil Mixing for Optimal Performance

The Husqvarna 350, like most two-stroke chainsaws, requires a specific mixture of gasoline and two-stroke oil. Using the wrong fuel mixture can lead to:

• Engine damage: Insufficient lubrication can cause the engine to seize or wear prematurely.
• Reduced performance: The engine may lack power or run poorly.
• Excessive smoke: The engine may produce excessive smoke.

The Correct Fuel Mixture

The recommended fuel mixture for the Husqvarna 350 is typically 50:1 (50 parts gasoline to 1 part two-stroke oil). This means that for every 50 liters of gasoline, you should add 1 liter of two-stroke oil.

Using the Right Oil

It’s crucial to use high-quality two-stroke oil specifically designed for air-cooled engines. Avoid using automotive oil, as it may not provide adequate lubrication for the chainsaw’s engine.

Mixing Fuel and Oil

1. Use a clean fuel container: Use a clean, approved fuel container to mix the fuel and oil.
2. Add the oil first: Pour the correct amount of two-stroke oil into the fuel container.
3. Add the gasoline: Add the gasoline to the fuel container, being careful not to spill any.
4. Mix thoroughly: Shake the fuel container vigorously to ensure that the fuel and oil are thoroughly mixed.

Fuel Storage

Store fuel in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and heat sources. Use fuel within 30 days, as it can degrade over time.

Material Specifications: Wood Moisture Content

The moisture content of the wood you are cutting can also affect the chainsaw’s performance. Cutting wet or green wood requires more power and can dull the chain more quickly. Aim for a moisture content of less than 20% for optimal cutting.

Case Study: I once worked on a project where we were cutting down a large number of oak trees that had been recently felled. The wood was still very green and had a moisture content of over 40%. I quickly realized that my chainsaw was struggling to cut through the wood, and the chain was dulling very quickly. I switched to a more aggressive chain and made sure to sharpen it frequently. I also adjusted the carburetor to compensate for the increased load on the engine. By taking these steps, I was able to complete the project successfully.

Additional Tips for Maintaining Your Husqvarna 350 Chainsaw

In addition to the five repair tips mentioned above, here are some additional tips to help you keep your Husqvarna 350 chainsaw in top condition:

• Clean the chainsaw regularly: After each use, clean the chainsaw to remove sawdust, dirt, and debris.
• Check the chain tension: Regularly check the chain tension and adjust it as needed. A loose chain can come off the bar, while a tight chain can cause excessive wear.
• Lubricate the chain: Use a high-quality bar and chain oil to lubricate the chain. This will help reduce friction and wear.
• Store the chainsaw properly: When not in use, store the chainsaw in a dry, safe place.
• Follow the manufacturer’s recommendations: Always follow the manufacturer’s recommendations for maintenance and repair.

Safety Equipment Requirements

Always wear appropriate safety gear when operating a chainsaw, 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 from cuts and abrasions.
• Chaps: Chainsaw chaps to protect your legs from accidental cuts.
• Steel-toed boots: Steel-toed boots to protect your feet from falling logs and other hazards.

Industry Standards: Adhering to ANSI (American National Standards Institute) standards for chainsaw safety is crucial for preventing accidents and injuries.

Conclusion: Keeping Your Husqvarna 350 Running Strong

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