Husqvarna 372XP OEM Cylinder Kit Upgrade (5 Pro Tips)

Imagine holding a piece of raw timber, feeling the grain, and knowing that with the right tools and techniques, you can transform it into something useful, something beautiful, something that warms homes. That feeling, that potential, is what drives me, and it’s what I want to share with you as we dive into upgrading your Husqvarna 372XP with an OEM cylinder kit. This isn’t just about bolting on parts; it’s about understanding the heart of your saw and unlocking its true potential.

Husqvarna 372XP OEM Cylinder Kit Upgrade: 5 Pro Tips to Unleash Performance

The Husqvarna 372XP is a legend in the logging and firewood community. Its power, reliability, and relatively simple design have made it a favorite for decades. But even legends can be improved. Upgrading to an OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) cylinder kit is one of the most effective ways to breathe new life into a tired 372XP or to push a healthy one to even greater heights.

I’ve spent countless hours in the woods, relying on my 372XP to get the job done. Through that experience, I’ve learned a few tricks that can make your cylinder upgrade smoother, more effective, and ultimately, more rewarding. These aren’t just generic tips; they’re born from real-world experience and a deep understanding of this iconic chainsaw.

1. Why Upgrade to an OEM Cylinder Kit?

Before we get into the how, let’s address the why. You might be wondering, “Why not just buy an aftermarket kit? They’re cheaper!” That’s a valid question, and the answer lies in quality, reliability, and performance.

Quality and Materials: Husqvarna OEM cylinders are manufactured to exacting standards using high-quality materials. This ensures proper heat dissipation, durability, and long-term performance. Aftermarket cylinders can vary wildly in quality, and often use inferior materials that can lead to premature wear, cracking, or even catastrophic failure.
Performance and Power: OEM cylinders are designed to work seamlessly with the rest of the 372XP’s components. This results in optimal combustion, increased power output, and improved fuel efficiency. Aftermarket cylinders may not be properly ported or matched to the engine’s specifications, resulting in a decrease in performance.
Longevity and Reliability: A properly installed OEM cylinder kit will significantly extend the life of your 372XP. The higher quality materials and precise manufacturing ensure that the cylinder can withstand the rigors of heavy use. Aftermarket cylinders may fail prematurely, leaving you stranded in the woods with a broken saw.
Resale Value: If you ever decide to sell your 372XP, having an OEM cylinder kit installed will significantly increase its value. Buyers recognize the quality and reliability of OEM parts and are willing to pay a premium for them.

My Experience: I once tried saving a few bucks by installing an aftermarket cylinder on a 372XP I was rebuilding. Within a few months, the cylinder started showing signs of wear, and the saw’s performance noticeably declined. I ended up replacing it with an OEM cylinder, and the difference was night and day. Lesson learned: stick with OEM for critical engine components.

Takeaway: While aftermarket parts may seem tempting due to their lower price, the long-term benefits of using an OEM cylinder kit far outweigh the initial cost savings. You’ll get better performance, longer life, and increased reliability.

2. Pre-Upgrade Inspection: Assessing Your 372XP’s Condition

Before you even think about ordering that shiny new cylinder kit, you need to thoroughly inspect your 372XP. This will help you identify any other potential issues that might need addressing and ensure that the upgrade is actually worth the effort.

Piston and Cylinder Condition: This is the most obvious check. Remove the muffler and inspect the piston and cylinder walls for scoring, scratches, or excessive wear. If the piston is heavily damaged or the cylinder walls are deeply scored, it’s a clear sign that the cylinder needs replacing.
Crankshaft Bearings: Check for play in the crankshaft bearings. Excessive play can indicate wear and tear, which can affect the engine’s performance and longevity. To check, try wiggling the flywheel. Any noticeable play means the bearings are likely worn.
Connecting Rod: Inspect the connecting rod for any signs of bending or damage. A bent connecting rod can cause serious engine damage and should be replaced immediately.
Carburetor and Fuel System: A clogged carburetor or a faulty fuel line can prevent the engine from running properly, even with a new cylinder. Clean the carburetor thoroughly and replace any worn or damaged fuel lines.
Ignition System: A weak spark can also affect engine performance. Check the spark plug and ignition coil to ensure they are functioning properly.
Overall Engine Condition: Assess the overall condition of the engine. If the engine is heavily worn or damaged, it may not be worth investing in a cylinder upgrade.
Compression Test: Perform a compression test to get a baseline reading. This will help you gauge the engine’s current condition and compare it to the compression after the upgrade. A healthy 372XP should have a compression reading of around 150-160 PSI.

Data Point: I’ve found that 372XPs used primarily for heavy bucking and felling tend to show more wear on the piston and cylinder than those used for lighter tasks like limbing. This is due to the increased load and heat generated during heavy cutting.

Tools You’ll Need:

Compression tester
Screwdrivers (flathead and Phillips)
Piston stop tool
Flashlight or inspection light

Takeaway: A thorough pre-upgrade inspection is crucial for identifying potential problems and ensuring that the cylinder upgrade is a worthwhile investment. Don’t skip this step!

3. The Installation Process: Step-by-Step Guide

Now for the fun part: installing the new cylinder kit! This process requires patience, attention to detail, and a good understanding of small engine mechanics. If you’re not comfortable working on engines, it’s best to take your 372XP to a qualified mechanic. However, if you’re mechanically inclined and have the right tools, you can definitely tackle this project yourself.

Safety First: Before you start, disconnect the spark plug wire and allow the engine to cool completely. Wear safety glasses and gloves to protect yourself from debris and chemicals.

Tools You’ll Need:

Socket set (metric)
Torque wrench
Piston stop tool
Screwdrivers (flathead and Phillips)
Pick set
Clean rags
Two-stroke oil
Assembly lube
Loctite (blue)
Service manual (highly recommended)

Step-by-Step Instructions:

Disassembly:
- Remove the muffler, air filter, and carburetor.
- Remove the top cover and cylinder cover.
- Disconnect the fuel line and impulse line from the carburetor.
- Remove the four cylinder bolts.
- Carefully remove the old cylinder. You may need to gently tap it with a rubber mallet to loosen it.
- Remove the piston from the connecting rod. Use a piston stop tool to prevent the crankshaft from turning.
- Clean the piston and connecting rod thoroughly.
- Preparation:
- Clean the cylinder mounting surface on the engine case. Remove any old gasket material or debris.
- Inspect the piston ring grooves for carbon buildup. Clean them carefully with a pick or a ring groove cleaner.
- Install the new piston rings on the piston. Make sure the ring gaps are properly positioned according to the service manual.
- Lubricate the piston, piston rings, and cylinder walls with two-stroke oil.
- Assembly:
- Carefully install the piston onto the connecting rod. Use new circlips to secure the piston pin. Make sure the circlips are properly seated in their grooves.
- Install the new cylinder gasket.
- Carefully slide the cylinder over the piston and onto the engine case. Make sure the piston rings are properly compressed as you slide the cylinder down.
- Install the four cylinder bolts and tighten them to the specified torque using a torque wrench. Refer to the service manual for the correct torque specifications.
- Reconnect the fuel line and impulse line to the carburetor.
- Reinstall the carburetor, air filter, muffler, top cover, and cylinder cover.
- Final Checks:
- Double-check all connections to ensure they are tight and secure.
- Check the spark plug gap and adjust it if necessary.
- Fill the fuel tank with fresh fuel.
- Prime the carburetor by pressing the primer bulb several times.
- Start the engine and let it idle for a few minutes.
- Adjust the carburetor settings as needed.

Pro Tip: When installing the piston rings, use a piston ring compressor tool to ensure they are properly compressed as you slide the cylinder over the piston. This will prevent damage to the rings and ensure a proper seal. If you don’t have a piston ring compressor, you can carefully compress the rings by hand, but be very careful not to break them.

Torque Specifications (Approximate – Always Refer to Service Manual):

Cylinder bolts: 18-22 Nm (13-16 ft-lbs)

Common Mistakes to Avoid:

Over-tightening the cylinder bolts: This can damage the cylinder or the engine case.
Forgetting to install the cylinder gasket: This will cause a loss of compression and prevent the engine from running properly.
Installing the piston rings incorrectly: This can cause damage to the cylinder walls and reduce engine performance.
Using old or damaged fuel lines: This can cause fuel leaks and prevent the engine from running properly.

Takeaway: Installing a new cylinder kit is a challenging but rewarding project. Take your time, follow the instructions carefully, and don’t be afraid to ask for help if you get stuck.

4. Carburetor Tuning: Optimizing Performance After the Upgrade

Once you’ve installed the new cylinder, it’s crucial to tune the carburetor to ensure optimal performance. A new cylinder can significantly change the engine’s air/fuel mixture requirements, so you’ll need to adjust the carburetor settings accordingly.

Understanding Carburetor Settings:

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

Tuning Procedure:

Warm-Up: Start the engine and let it warm up for a few minutes.
Idle Speed Adjustment: Adjust the idle speed screw (T) until the engine idles smoothly without stalling. The recommended idle speed for a 372XP is around 2700-3000 RPM.
Low-Speed Needle Adjustment: Turn the low-speed needle (L) clockwise until the engine starts to stumble or die. Then, turn it counterclockwise until the engine starts to run rough or smoke excessively. The ideal setting is usually somewhere in between these two extremes.
High-Speed Needle Adjustment: This is the most critical adjustment. Use a tachometer to monitor the engine’s RPMs. With the engine at full throttle, slowly turn the high-speed needle (H) clockwise until the engine starts to bog down or lose power. Then, turn it counterclockwise until the engine starts to run rough or smoke excessively. The ideal setting is the point where the engine reaches its maximum RPMs without bogging down. The maximum RPMs for a 372XP should be around 13,000-13,500 RPM.
Fine-Tuning: After making these initial adjustments, fine-tune the carburetor by making small adjustments to the low-speed and high-speed needles until the engine runs smoothly at all RPMs.

Important Considerations:

Altitude: Higher altitudes require leaner fuel mixtures. If you’re tuning your carburetor at a high altitude, you may need to lean out the fuel mixture slightly.
Temperature: Colder temperatures require richer fuel mixtures. If you’re tuning your carburetor in cold weather, you may need to richen the fuel mixture slightly.
Fuel Type: Different fuel types can affect the engine’s air/fuel mixture requirements. If you’re using a different fuel type than what’s recommended in the service manual, you may need to adjust the carburetor settings accordingly.

Data Point: I’ve noticed that 372XPs equipped with aftermarket mufflers often require slightly richer high-speed settings to prevent leaning out at high RPMs. This is because aftermarket mufflers typically flow more air than stock mufflers, which can lean out the fuel mixture.

Takeaway: Proper carburetor tuning is essential for maximizing the performance and longevity of your 372XP. Take the time to tune your carburetor correctly, and you’ll be rewarded with a saw that runs smoothly, powerfully, and efficiently.

5. Break-In Period: Ensuring Long-Term Reliability

After installing the new cylinder and tuning the carburetor, it’s important to break in the engine properly. This will help the piston rings seat properly against the cylinder walls and ensure long-term reliability.

Break-In Procedure:

Initial Start-Up: Start the engine and let it idle for a few minutes. Check for any leaks or unusual noises.
Low-Load Operation: Run the engine at low RPMs for the first hour. Avoid running the engine at full throttle or under heavy load during this period.
Gradual Increase in Load: Gradually increase the load on the engine over the next few hours. Avoid running the engine at full throttle for extended periods.
Varying RPMs: Vary the engine’s RPMs during the break-in period. This will help the piston rings seat properly against the cylinder walls.
Check Spark Plug: After the first few hours of operation, check the spark plug. If the spark plug is fouled or carboned up, clean it or replace it.
Adjust Carburetor: Recheck the carburetor settings after the break-in period. You may need to make minor adjustments to the low-speed and high-speed needles to optimize performance.

Important Considerations:

Fuel/Oil Mixture: Use the correct fuel/oil mixture during the break-in period. The recommended fuel/oil mixture for a 372XP is 50:1 (50 parts fuel to 1 part oil).
Engine Temperature: Avoid overheating the engine during the break-in period. If the engine starts to overheat, stop and let it cool down before continuing.
Listen to the Engine: Pay attention to the engine’s sound during the break-in period. If you hear any unusual noises, stop and investigate.

My Story: I once rushed the break-in period on a 372XP I had rebuilt, and within a few months, the engine started losing power. When I pulled the cylinder, I found that the piston rings hadn’t seated properly, resulting in reduced compression. Lesson learned: patience is key when breaking in a new engine.

Takeaway: A proper break-in period is essential for ensuring the long-term reliability of your 372XP. Follow these guidelines carefully, and you’ll be rewarded with a saw that runs strong for years to come.

Beyond the Upgrade: Maintaining Your 372XP for Peak Performance

Upgrading your Husqvarna 372XP with an OEM cylinder kit is a significant investment, and it’s important to maintain your saw properly to protect that investment and ensure peak performance for years to come.

Regular Maintenance Tasks:

Air Filter Cleaning: Clean the air filter regularly, especially when working in dusty conditions. A dirty air filter can restrict airflow and reduce engine performance. I recommend cleaning the air filter after every tank of fuel. Use warm soapy water and allow the filter to dry completely before reinstalling it.
Spark Plug Inspection: Inspect the spark plug regularly and replace it as needed. A worn or fouled spark plug can cause poor engine performance and hard starting. I typically replace the spark plug every 50-100 hours of operation.
Fuel Filter Replacement: Replace the fuel filter regularly. A clogged fuel filter can restrict fuel flow and cause the engine to stall. I replace the fuel filter every 6 months or so.
Chain Sharpening: Keep the chain sharp. A dull chain requires more effort to cut and can put unnecessary strain on the engine. I sharpen my chain every time I refuel.
Chain Lubrication: Ensure the chain is properly lubricated. A dry chain can wear out quickly and can also damage the bar. I check the chain oil level frequently and refill it as needed.
Bar Maintenance: Clean the bar regularly and check for wear. A worn bar can cause the chain to derail and can also reduce cutting efficiency. I clean the bar every time I sharpen the chain and I rotate the bar regularly to ensure even wear.
Cooling System Cleaning: Clean the cooling fins on the cylinder regularly. A clogged cooling system can cause the engine to overheat. I clean the cooling fins every time I clean the air filter.
Inspect Fuel Lines and Impulse Lines: Inspect the fuel lines and impulse lines for cracks or leaks. Replace them as needed. I inspect these lines every time I clean the air filter.
Grease Sprocket Bearing: Grease the sprocket bearing regularly. A dry bearing can cause the chain to bind and can also damage the sprocket. I grease the sprocket bearing every 25 hours of operation.

Seasonal Maintenance:

End-of-Season Storage: Before storing your 372XP for the off-season, drain the fuel tank and run the engine until it stalls. This will prevent the fuel from gumming up the carburetor. Also, remove the spark plug and pour a small amount of two-stroke oil into the cylinder. Pull the starter cord a few times to distribute the oil, then reinstall the spark plug. This will help protect the cylinder from rust during storage.
Spring Start-Up: Before starting your 372XP after the off-season, check all the fluids and filters. Replace the fuel if it’s been sitting for more than a few months. Also, check the spark plug and clean or replace it as needed.

Troubleshooting Common Problems:

Hard Starting: Check the spark plug, fuel filter, and carburetor.
Poor Performance: Check the air filter, spark plug, fuel filter, and carburetor.
Stalling: Check the fuel filter, carburetor, and ignition system.
Overheating: Check the cooling system and carburetor.
Chain Derailment: Check the bar, chain, and sprocket.

Data Point: I’ve found that using a fuel stabilizer in the fuel can significantly extend the life of the fuel and prevent it from gumming up the carburetor. This is especially important if you’re storing your 372XP for the off-season.

Takeaway: Regular maintenance is essential for keeping your Husqvarna 372XP running smoothly and reliably. By following these maintenance tips, you can extend the life of your saw and avoid costly repairs.

Safety First: Operating Your 372XP Responsibly

Operating a chainsaw is inherently dangerous, and it’s crucial to prioritize safety at all times. Before you even think about starting your 372XP, take the time to familiarize yourself with the safety features of the saw and the proper operating procedures.

Essential Safety Gear:

Chainsaw Chaps: These are designed to protect your legs from chainsaw cuts. I never operate a chainsaw without wearing chaps.
Safety Glasses or Face Shield: These protect your eyes from flying debris.
Hearing Protection: Chainsaws are loud, and prolonged exposure to high noise levels can damage your hearing. I always wear earplugs or earmuffs when operating a chainsaw.
Gloves: These protect your hands from cuts, scrapes, and vibrations.
Steel-Toed Boots: These protect your feet from falling logs and chainsaw cuts.
Helmet: A helmet provides head protection from falling branches or kickback.

Safe Operating Procedures:

Read the Owner’s Manual: Familiarize yourself with the safety features and operating procedures of your 372XP.
Inspect the Saw: Before each use, inspect the saw for any damage or loose parts.
Start the Saw on the Ground: Never drop-start a chainsaw. Place the saw on the ground and use your foot to secure it while you pull the starter cord.
Maintain a Firm Grip: Always hold the saw with both hands and maintain a firm grip.
Keep Your Balance: Maintain a stable stance and keep your feet firmly planted on the ground.
Be Aware of Your Surroundings: Be aware of your surroundings and watch out for obstacles, such as rocks, roots, and branches.
Avoid Cutting Above Shoulder Height: Cutting above shoulder height is dangerous and can increase the risk of kickback.
Use Proper Cutting Techniques: Use proper cutting techniques to avoid kickback and other hazards.
Never Cut Alone: Always work with a partner when operating a chainsaw.
Take Breaks: Take frequent breaks to avoid fatigue.
Know Your Limits: Don’t attempt to cut trees that are too large or too difficult for you to handle.
Kickback Awareness: Understand the causes of chainsaw kickback and how to prevent it.

Understanding Kickback:

Kickback is a sudden and forceful upward or backward movement of the chainsaw that can occur when the tip of the bar contacts a solid object. Kickback is one of the most common causes of chainsaw injuries.

Causes of Kickback:

Contact with a Solid Object: Contacting a solid object, such as a knot, a branch, or the ground, with the tip of the bar.
Pinch: Pinching the bar in the cut.
Improper Cutting Technique: Using improper cutting techniques.

Preventing Kickback:

Use the Correct Cutting Technique: Use proper cutting techniques to avoid kickback.
Avoid Cutting with the Tip of the Bar: Avoid cutting with the tip of the bar.
Keep the Chain Sharp: A sharp chain is less likely to kick back.
Maintain Proper Chain Tension: Proper chain tension can help prevent kickback.
Use a Chainsaw with a Chain Brake: A chain brake can stop the chain quickly in the event of kickback.

Takeaway: Safety should always be your top priority when operating a chainsaw. By following these safety guidelines, you can significantly reduce the risk of injury.

Conclusion: Unleash the Legend

Upgrading your Husqvarna 372XP with an OEM cylinder kit is more than just a repair; it’s an investment in performance, reliability, and the legacy of a true logging icon. By following these pro tips, you can ensure a smooth installation, optimal tuning, and a long, productive life for your saw. Remember to prioritize safety, maintain your saw regularly, and respect the power you hold in your hands. Now, get out there and unleash the legend!

Husqvarna 372XP OEM Cylinder Kit Upgrade (5 Pro Tips)