Husqvarna Chainsaw 40 Maintenance Tips (5 Expert Hacks)

How to Keep Your Husqvarna 40 Chainsaw Roaring: 40 Maintenance Tips & 5 Expert Hacks

Understanding Your Husqvarna 40 Chainsaw

Before diving into the nitty-gritty, let’s get familiar with the Husqvarna 40. This model is known for its durability and ease of use, making it a popular choice for both homeowners and professionals. It’s a mid-range saw, typically sporting a 16-18 inch bar, and is ideal for felling smaller trees, limbing, and bucking firewood.

Husqvarna 40: Key Features

Engine: A 40cc two-stroke engine provides a good balance of power and weight.
Bar Length: Usually available with 16″ or 18″ bar options.
Weight: Around 10-12 pounds, making it manageable for extended use.
Safety Features: Chain brake, throttle lock, and hand guard are standard.

Husqvarna 40: Importance of Regular Maintenance

Neglecting maintenance can lead to a host of problems, including:

Reduced Performance: A dirty air filter or spark plug can significantly decrease power.
Increased Wear and Tear: Lack of lubrication causes premature wear on critical components.
Safety Hazards: A dull chain or malfunctioning chain brake can increase the risk of accidents.
Costly Repairs: Small issues can quickly escalate into major problems requiring expensive repairs or even replacement of the chainsaw.

Essential Daily Maintenance (Tips 1-5)

These are the tasks I perform every time I use my chainsaw. It’s like brushing your teeth for your saw!

1. Chain Tension Check

A properly tensioned chain is crucial for safe and efficient cutting. Too loose, and it can derail; too tight, and it puts excessive strain on the bar and sprocket.

How to Check: Lift the chain in the middle of the bar. It should pull away slightly but not sag excessively. Aim for about 1/8 inch of slack.
Adjustment: Use the chain tensioning screw (usually located on the side of the saw) to adjust the tension. Tighten until the chain fits snugly against the bar.
Why it Matters: Prevents chain derailment and reduces wear on the bar and chain.

2. Bar and Chain Lubrication

Proper lubrication is the lifeblood of your chainsaw. It reduces friction, prevents overheating, and extends the life of the bar and chain.

How to Check: Ensure the oil reservoir is full before each use. Check the oiler function by running the saw briefly and observing if oil is being ejected.
Oil Type: Use a high-quality bar and chain oil specifically designed for chainsaws. I prefer a synthetic blend for its superior lubrication and tackiness.
Why it Matters: Prevents premature wear and tear on the bar and chain, ensuring smooth cutting.

3. Air Filter Inspection

A clean air filter is essential for proper engine performance. A clogged filter restricts airflow, leading to reduced power and increased fuel consumption.

How to Check: Remove the air filter cover and inspect the filter. If it’s dirty, clean or replace it.
Cleaning: Tap the filter gently to remove loose debris. For more thorough cleaning, wash it with warm, soapy water, rinse thoroughly, and allow it to dry completely before reinstalling.
Why it Matters: Maintains optimal engine performance and prevents damage from dirt and debris entering the engine.

4. Visual Inspection

Take a few minutes to visually inspect your chainsaw for any signs of damage or wear.

What to Look For: Cracks in the housing, loose screws, damaged cords, and leaks.
Action: Address any issues immediately. Tighten loose screws, repair or replace damaged parts, and investigate any leaks.
Why it Matters: Catches potential problems early, preventing them from escalating into major repairs.

5. Chain Sharpness Check

A sharp chain is essential for safe and efficient cutting. A dull chain requires more force, increasing the risk of kickback and operator fatigue.

How to Check: Observe the chips produced during cutting. A sharp chain produces long, consistent chips, while a dull chain produces sawdust.
Action: Sharpen the chain when it starts to dull. I’ll cover chain sharpening in detail later.
Why it Matters: Ensures safe and efficient cutting, reduces operator fatigue, and minimizes the risk of kickback.

Takeaway: These daily checks are quick and easy, but they can significantly extend the life of your Husqvarna 40 chainsaw and improve its performance.

Weekly Maintenance (Tips 6-15)

These tasks I handle once a week, especially if I’ve been putting the saw through its paces.

6. Air Filter Cleaning (Detailed)

I touched on this earlier, but let’s delve deeper.

Compressed Air: After washing and drying the air filter, I use compressed air (at a low PSI, around 30) to blow out any remaining particles. Hold the nozzle a few inches away to avoid damaging the filter material.
Foam Filters: If your Husqvarna 40 has a foam pre-filter, wash it with warm, soapy water, rinse thoroughly, and allow it to dry completely. Then, lightly oil it with air filter oil before reinstalling.
Replacement: Air filters are relatively inexpensive. If your filter is damaged or excessively dirty, replace it.
Why it Matters: A meticulously clean air filter ensures optimal airflow to the engine, maximizing performance and fuel efficiency.

7. Chain Sharpening (Basic)

Keeping your chain sharp is paramount.

Tools: You’ll need a chainsaw file, a file guide, and a depth gauge tool.
Technique: Use the file guide to maintain the correct filing angle (typically 30 degrees). File each tooth consistently, removing the same amount of material from each. Pay attention to the depth gauge, which controls the height of the rakers (the part of the tooth that scoops out the wood). If the rakers are too high, the chain will be grabby; if they’re too low, the chain won’t cut effectively.
Why it Matters: A sharp chain cuts faster, safer, and with less effort.

8. Bar Groove Cleaning

The bar groove, which guides the chain, can accumulate sawdust and debris.

Tool: Use a small screwdriver or a specialized bar groove cleaner to remove any buildup.
Why it Matters: A clean bar groove allows the chain to move freely, reducing friction and wear.

9. Sprocket Inspection

The sprocket drives the chain. A worn sprocket can damage the chain and reduce cutting efficiency.

Inspection: Check the sprocket for wear and tear, such as chipped or broken teeth.
Replacement: Replace the sprocket if it shows signs of significant wear.
Why it Matters: A healthy sprocket ensures smooth and efficient power transfer from the engine to the chain.

10. Spark Plug Inspection

The spark plug ignites the fuel-air mixture in the engine. A fouled or worn spark plug can cause starting problems and reduced performance.

Inspection: Remove the spark plug and inspect it. Look for signs of fouling (carbon buildup) or damage.
Cleaning: Clean the spark plug with a wire brush or a spark plug cleaner.
Gap Adjustment: Use a spark plug gap tool to ensure the gap is within the manufacturer’s specifications (usually around 0.020-0.025 inches).
Replacement: Replace the spark plug if it’s heavily fouled or damaged.
Why it Matters: A clean and properly gapped spark plug ensures reliable starting and optimal engine performance.

11. Fuel Filter Inspection

The fuel filter prevents dirt and debris from entering the carburetor.

Inspection: Remove the fuel filter from the fuel tank and inspect it.
Replacement: Replace the fuel filter if it’s dirty or clogged.
Why it Matters: A clean fuel filter ensures a steady supply of fuel to the carburetor, preventing engine stalling and performance issues.

12. Oiler Function Test

Make sure the oiler is working correctly.

Test: Start the chainsaw and run it at full throttle, pointing the bar towards a piece of cardboard or wood. Observe if oil is being ejected from the bar.
Troubleshooting: If the oiler isn’t working, check the oil reservoir level, the oil filter, and the oil pump.
Why it Matters: Proper oiler function is crucial for keeping the bar and chain lubricated.

13. Cooling Fin Cleaning

The cooling fins on the engine cylinder dissipate heat.

Cleaning: Use a brush or compressed air to remove any debris from the cooling fins.
Why it Matters: Clean cooling fins prevent the engine from overheating, which can cause damage.

14. Muffler Inspection

The muffler reduces noise and directs exhaust gases away from the operator.

Inspection: Check the muffler for damage or blockages.
Spark Arrestor Screen: Many mufflers have a spark arrestor screen to prevent sparks from escaping. Clean the screen regularly with a wire brush.
Why it Matters: A properly functioning muffler ensures safe and quiet operation.

15. Handle and Controls Check

Make sure all handles and controls are in good working order.

Check: Inspect the handles for cracks or damage. Test the throttle, chain brake, and on/off switch.
Why it Matters: Safe and reliable operation of the chainsaw.

Takeaway: Weekly maintenance ensures your Husqvarna 40 remains a reliable workhorse, ready to tackle any cutting task.

Monthly Maintenance (Tips 16-25)

These are the more in-depth tasks I schedule monthly to keep everything in top shape.

16. Carburetor Adjustment (Basic)

The carburetor mixes fuel and air to create the proper mixture for combustion.

Adjustment: The Husqvarna 40 has three adjustment screws: the low-speed (L), high-speed (H), and idle speed (T) screws.
Procedure: Start the engine and let it warm up. Adjust the L and H screws to achieve smooth acceleration and maximum power. Adjust the T screw to set the idle speed so the chain doesn’t move when the throttle is released.
Caution: Carburetor adjustment can be tricky. If you’re not comfortable doing it yourself, take your chainsaw to a qualified technician.
Why it Matters: Proper carburetor adjustment ensures optimal engine performance and fuel efficiency.

17. Chain Sharpening (Advanced)

Let’s go deeper into chain sharpening.

File Size: Use the correct file size for your chain (typically 5/32″ or 3/16″ for the Husqvarna 40).
File Angle: Maintain the correct filing angle (typically 30 degrees) using a file guide.
Depth Gauge Adjustment: Use a depth gauge tool to adjust the height of the rakers. If the rakers are too high, the chain will be grabby; if they’re too low, the chain won’t cut effectively.
Consistency: File each tooth consistently, removing the same amount of material from each.
Why it Matters: A properly sharpened chain cuts faster, safer, and with less effort.

18. Bar Dressing

The bar rails can wear unevenly over time.

Tool: Use a bar dressing tool to file the rails flat and square.
Why it Matters: A properly dressed bar ensures smooth chain movement and reduces wear.

19. Clutch Inspection

The clutch engages and disengages the engine from the chain.

Inspection: Check the clutch shoes for wear and tear.
Replacement: Replace the clutch shoes if they’re worn or damaged.
Why it Matters: A healthy clutch ensures smooth and reliable power transfer.

20. Starter Mechanism Inspection

The starter mechanism is used to start the engine.

Inspection: Check the starter rope, pulley, and spring for wear and tear.
Replacement: Replace any worn or damaged parts.
Why it Matters: A properly functioning starter mechanism ensures easy starting.

21. Fuel Line Inspection

The fuel lines carry fuel from the fuel tank to the carburetor.

Inspection: Check the fuel lines for cracks or leaks.
Replacement: Replace any damaged fuel lines.
Why it Matters: Prevents fuel leaks and ensures a steady supply of fuel to the carburetor.

22. Oil Line Inspection

The oil lines carry oil from the oil tank to the bar.

Inspection: Check the oil lines for cracks or leaks.
Replacement: Replace any damaged oil lines.
Why it Matters: Ensures proper lubrication of the bar and chain.

23. Bolt Tightening

Vibrations can cause bolts to loosen over time.

Action: Check all bolts and screws and tighten them as needed.
Why it Matters: Prevents parts from coming loose and causing damage.

24. Chain Catcher Inspection

The chain catcher prevents the chain from flying back towards the operator if it breaks or derails.

Inspection: Check the chain catcher for damage.
Replacement: Replace the chain catcher if it’s damaged.
Why it Matters: A functional chain catcher is a critical safety feature.

25. General Cleaning

Give your chainsaw a thorough cleaning.

Action: Remove sawdust and debris from all parts of the chainsaw.
Why it Matters: Keeps your chainsaw looking good and prevents corrosion.

Takeaway: Monthly maintenance is about digging deeper and ensuring every component of your Husqvarna 40 is in top working order.

Seasonal/Annual Maintenance (Tips 26-35)

These are the tasks I do at the end of the cutting season or annually, to prepare the saw for storage and ensure it’s ready for the next season.

26. Fuel System Drain

Gasoline can degrade over time, especially if it contains ethanol.

Action: Drain the fuel tank and carburetor before storing the chainsaw for an extended period.
Why it Matters: Prevents fuel system problems, such as clogged carburetors and fuel lines.

27. Carburetor Cleaning (Detailed)

A clogged carburetor can cause starting problems and reduced performance.

Action: Disassemble the carburetor and clean all parts with carburetor cleaner.
Why it Matters: Ensures optimal engine performance and fuel efficiency.

28. Cylinder and Piston Inspection

The cylinder and piston are the heart of the engine.

Action: Remove the muffler and spark plug and inspect the cylinder and piston for signs of wear or damage.
Why it Matters: Catches potential problems early, preventing them from escalating into major repairs.

29. Recoil Spring Replacement

A worn recoil spring can make starting difficult.

Action: Replace the recoil spring if it’s weak or broken.
Why it Matters: Ensures easy starting.

30. Chain Replacement

Even with regular sharpening, chains eventually wear out.

Action: Replace the chain when it’s no longer cutting efficiently or if it’s damaged.
Why it Matters: Ensures safe and efficient cutting.

31. Bar Replacement

The bar can also wear out over time.

Action: Replace the bar when it’s worn or damaged.
Why it Matters: Ensures smooth chain movement and reduces wear.

32. Hose Replacement

Fuel and oil hoses can crack and deteriorate over time.

Action: Replace fuel and oil hoses if they show signs of wear or damage.
Why it Matters: Prevents fuel and oil leaks, ensuring the chainsaw runs efficiently and safely.

33. Bumper Spike Replacement

Bumper spikes help with leverage during cutting.

Action: Replace bumper spikes if they are damaged or worn.
Why it Matters: Improves cutting efficiency and control.

34. Complete Cleaning

Give your chainsaw a thorough cleaning before storing it.

Action: Remove all sawdust and debris from all parts of the chainsaw.
Why it Matters: Prevents corrosion and keeps your chainsaw looking good.

35. Proper Storage

Store your chainsaw in a dry, protected location.

Action: Cover the chainsaw with a tarp or store it in a case to protect it from dust and moisture.
Why it Matters: Prevents corrosion and damage during storage.

Takeaway: Seasonal maintenance is about preparing your Husqvarna 40 for long-term storage and ensuring it’s ready for action when the cutting season rolls around again.

Advanced Maintenance (Tips 36-40)

These are maintenance tasks that require more advanced knowledge and skills. If you’re not comfortable performing these tasks yourself, take your chainsaw to a qualified technician.

36. Engine Rebuild

If your engine is worn out, you may need to rebuild it.

Action: Disassemble the engine and replace worn or damaged parts, such as the piston, rings, and bearings.
Why it Matters: Restores engine performance and extends the life of the chainsaw.

37. Clutch Spring Replacement

A worn clutch spring can cause the clutch to slip.

Action: Replace the clutch spring if it’s weak or broken.
Why it Matters: Ensures smooth and reliable power transfer.

38. Ignition Coil Replacement

A faulty ignition coil can cause starting problems.

Action: Replace the ignition coil if it’s faulty.
Why it Matters: Ensures reliable starting.

39. Crankshaft Seal Replacement

Worn crankshaft seals can cause air leaks, which can affect engine performance.

Action: Replace the crankshaft seals if they’re worn or damaged.
Why it Matters: Restores engine performance and prevents damage.

40. Professional Tuning

Take your chainsaw to a qualified technician for professional tuning.

Action: The technician can adjust the carburetor, ignition timing, and other settings to optimize engine performance.
Why it Matters: Ensures optimal engine performance and fuel efficiency.

Takeaway: Advanced maintenance requires specialized knowledge and skills. Don’t hesitate to seek professional help if you’re not comfortable performing these tasks yourself.

5 Expert Hacks for Your Husqvarna 40

Now for the good stuff – the tricks I’ve learned over the years.

Hack 1: The “Pantyhose” Fuel Filter

This sounds crazy, but trust me. If you’re in a pinch and your fuel filter is completely clogged, you can use a small piece of clean pantyhose (nylon stocking) as a temporary filter. Wrap it tightly around the end of the fuel line inside the tank. It will filter out debris, allowing you to finish the job. Just remember to replace it with a proper fuel filter as soon as possible.

Hack 2: The “Cardboard Sharpener”

If you don’t have a file handy, you can use a piece of cardboard to temporarily sharpen your chain. Run the chain at a moderate speed and press the cardboard against the chain at the same angle you would use with a file. The cardboard will act as an abrasive, removing some of the dullness. This is a temporary fix, but it can help you get through a few more cuts.

Hack 3: The “Dish Soap Bar Cleaner”

Bar and chain oil can be incredibly sticky and attract dirt. After a long day of cutting, I use a solution of warm water and dish soap to thoroughly clean the bar. This removes the oil and grime, preventing corrosion and extending the life of the bar.

Hack 4: The “Grease Gun Sprocket Lube”

Most people overlook the sprocket bearing. I use a needle-nose grease gun to inject a small amount of grease into the sprocket bearing every few months. This keeps the bearing lubricated, reducing friction and wear.

Hack 5: The “Winterization” Trick

Before storing my Husqvarna 40 for the winter, I add a fuel stabilizer to the gasoline. This prevents the fuel from degrading and gumming up the carburetor. I also run the engine for a few minutes to circulate the stabilized fuel throughout the fuel system. This ensures that the chainsaw will start easily in the spring.

Safety First

No matter how well you maintain your chainsaw, safety should always be your top priority.

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): Always wear appropriate PPE, including a helmet, eye protection, hearing protection, gloves, chainsaw chaps, and steel-toed boots.
Safe Cutting Techniques: Use safe cutting techniques, such as keeping a firm grip on the chainsaw, maintaining a stable stance, and avoiding kickback situations.
Read the Manual: Familiarize yourself with the Husqvarna 40 owner’s manual and follow all safety instructions.

Conclusion

Maintaining your Husqvarna 40 chainsaw is an investment in its longevity, performance, and your safety. By following these 40 maintenance tips and incorporating the 5 expert hacks, you can keep your chainsaw running smoothly for years to come. Remember to always prioritize safety and seek professional help when needed. Happy cutting!