Special 42 Husqvarna Chainsaws Guide (Expert Tips for Woodcutters)

Understanding the Husqvarna 42 Special

The Husqvarna 42 Special is a mid-range chainsaw that’s been a favorite among woodcutters and homeowners alike. Its combination of power, relatively light weight, and ease of use makes it a versatile tool for various tasks, from felling small trees to cutting firewood.

Key Features and Specifications

• Engine Displacement: Typically around 42cc
• Power Output: Approximately 2.6 horsepower
• Bar Length: Commonly available with 16-inch or 18-inch bars
• Weight: Around 10-11 pounds (without bar and chain)
• Fuel Tank Capacity: Approximately 0.4 liters
• Oil Tank Capacity: Approximately 0.2 liters

These specifications can vary slightly depending on the exact model and year of manufacture. Understanding these basics is crucial before diving into more advanced maintenance and troubleshooting.

Common Uses and Applications

The Husqvarna 42 Special excels in various applications, including:

• Firewood Cutting: Its power and maneuverability make it ideal for processing logs into manageable firewood pieces.
• Tree Felling (Small to Medium Trees): With the right technique and a sharp chain, it can handle trees up to 12-14 inches in diameter.
• Limbing and Pruning: Its relatively light weight allows for extended use when limbing fallen trees or pruning branches.
• General Property Maintenance: Clearing brush, removing storm damage, and other general tasks around the yard.

Essential Maintenance for Longevity

Regular maintenance is the key to extending the life of your Husqvarna 42 Special. Neglecting maintenance can lead to reduced performance, costly repairs, and even premature failure.

Daily Maintenance Checklist

Before each use, I always go through this quick checklist:

• Check Fuel and Oil Levels: Ensure both tanks are adequately filled with the correct type of fuel and bar oil.
• Inspect the Chain: Look for any signs of damage, such as broken or cracked teeth. Make sure the chain is properly tensioned.
• Clean the Air Filter: A dirty air filter restricts airflow, reducing engine performance. Clean it with compressed air or warm, soapy water.
• Check the Bar and Chain Oiler: Verify that the chain is receiving adequate lubrication. A dry chain will quickly overheat and dull.
• Inspect Screws and Fasteners: Ensure all screws and fasteners are tight. Vibrations can cause them to loosen over time.

Weekly/Monthly Maintenance Procedures

These tasks require a little more time but are crucial for long-term performance:

• Sharpen the Chain: A sharp chain cuts faster, safer, and with less effort. I prefer using a chainsaw file and guide for precise sharpening.
• Clean the Spark Plug: A fouled spark plug can cause starting problems. Clean it with a wire brush and check the gap.
• Inspect the Bar: Look for wear and tear, such as burrs or uneven wear. Dress the bar with a file to remove any imperfections.
• Clean the Cooling Fins: Debris can accumulate around the engine’s cooling fins, causing it to overheat. Use compressed air to clean them.
• Check the Clutch and Sprocket: Inspect the clutch for wear and the sprocket for damage. Replace them as needed.

Seasonal Maintenance and Storage

At the end of each cutting season, I perform a more thorough maintenance routine:

• Drain the Fuel Tank: Old fuel can gum up the carburetor. Drain the tank and run the engine until it stalls.
• Remove and Clean the Carburetor: This is a more advanced task, but it can prevent starting problems in the spring.
• Inspect and Replace Fuel Lines: Fuel lines can become brittle and crack over time. Replace them if necessary.
• Store the Chainsaw Properly: Store the chainsaw in a dry, protected location. I use a chainsaw case to prevent damage.

Fuel and Oil: Getting it Right

Using the correct fuel and oil mixture is essential for the Husqvarna 42 Special’s engine. Incorrect mixtures can lead to engine damage and reduced performance.

Fuel Mixture Ratio

The recommended fuel mixture ratio for the Husqvarna 42 Special is typically 50:1. This means 50 parts gasoline to 1 part 2-stroke oil.

• Gasoline: Use high-quality, unleaded gasoline with an octane rating of 89 or higher.
• 2-Stroke Oil: Use a high-quality, synthetic 2-stroke oil specifically designed for air-cooled engines. Husqvarna’s own 2-stroke oil is a good choice.

I always mix my fuel in a separate container using a measuring cup or ratio rite. It’s crucial to be precise with the mixture. Too much oil can cause excessive smoke and carbon buildup, while too little oil can lead to engine seizure.

Bar and Chain Oil

The bar and chain oil lubricates the chain and bar, reducing friction and wear. Using the correct type of oil is crucial for prolonging the life of your bar and chain.

• Type of Oil: Use a high-quality bar and chain oil specifically designed for chainsaws. These oils are formulated to cling to the chain and bar, providing optimal lubrication.
• Viscosity: The viscosity of the oil should be appropriate for the ambient temperature. In colder weather, use a lighter oil to ensure proper flow. In warmer weather, use a heavier oil to prevent the oil from thinning out too much.

I avoid using recycled or waste oil, as these can contain contaminants that can damage the bar and chain. I also check the oil level frequently during use and adjust the oiler as needed to ensure adequate lubrication.

Chain Sharpening: Maintaining Peak Performance

A sharp chain is crucial for efficient and safe cutting. A dull chain requires more force, increases the risk of kickback, and puts unnecessary strain on the engine.

Tools for Chain Sharpening

• Chainsaw File: A round file specifically designed for sharpening chainsaw chains. The file size should match the chain’s pitch.
• File Guide: A tool that helps maintain the correct filing angle and depth.
• Depth Gauge Tool: A tool for checking and adjusting the depth gauges (rakers) on the chain.
• Vise: A small vise to hold the chainsaw bar securely while sharpening.

Sharpening Procedure

1. Secure the Bar: Place the chainsaw bar in the vise, ensuring the chain is easily accessible.
2. Identify the Cutting Angle: The cutting angle is typically marked on the chain’s cutters.
3. File Each Cutter: Using the file and guide, file each cutter at the correct angle and depth. Maintain consistent strokes and pressure.
4. Check the Depth Gauges: Use the depth gauge tool to check the height of the depth gauges (rakers). File them down if they are too high.
5. Repeat: Repeat the process for all cutters on the chain.

I always file each cutter the same number of times to ensure they are all the same length. I also rotate the chain regularly to prevent uneven wear.

When to Sharpen

I sharpen my chain whenever I notice the following:

• The chain is cutting slowly: If the chain is taking longer to cut through wood, it’s likely dull.
• The chain is producing sawdust instead of chips: A sharp chain produces large, uniform chips. A dull chain produces fine sawdust.
• The chain is pulling to one side: This indicates that some cutters are duller than others.
• The chain is vibrating excessively: A dull chain can cause excessive vibration, which can be uncomfortable and fatiguing.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Even with regular maintenance, you may encounter occasional problems with your Husqvarna 42 Special. Here are some common issues and how to troubleshoot them.

Starting Problems

• Problem: Chainsaw won’t start.
• Possible Causes:
  • No Fuel: Check the fuel tank and make sure there is fuel.
  • Old Fuel: Old fuel can gum up the carburetor. Drain the tank and refill with fresh fuel.
  • Spark Plug: Check the spark plug for fouling or damage. Clean or replace it as needed.
  • Air Filter: A dirty air filter can restrict airflow. Clean or replace it.
  • Carburetor: The carburetor may be clogged or need adjustment. Clean or rebuild it.
  • Ignition Coil: The ignition coil may be faulty. Test it with a multimeter.
• Solution: Address each possible cause in order, starting with the simplest.

Engine Runs Poorly

• Problem: Engine runs rough, stalls, or lacks power.
• Possible Causes:
  • Dirty Air Filter: Clean or replace the air filter.
  • Fouled Spark Plug: Clean or replace the spark plug.
  • Incorrect Fuel Mixture: Ensure the fuel mixture is correct (50:1).
  • Carburetor Adjustment: The carburetor may need adjustment.
  • Fuel Line Problems: Check the fuel lines for cracks or leaks.
  • Exhaust Port Clogged: Carbon buildup in the exhaust port can restrict exhaust flow. Clean the exhaust port.
• Solution: Address each possible cause in order, starting with the simplest.

Chain Oiling Problems

• Problem: Chain is not receiving adequate lubrication.
• Possible Causes:
  • Low Oil Level: Check the oil tank and make sure there is oil.
  • Oiler Adjustment: Adjust the oiler to increase the oil flow.
  • Clogged Oiler: The oiler may be clogged with debris. Clean the oiler.
  • Bar Groove Clogged: The bar groove may be clogged with sawdust. Clean the bar groove.
  • Oil Pump Failure: The oil pump may be faulty. Replace the oil pump.
• Solution: Address each possible cause in order, starting with the simplest.

Chain Problems

• Problem: Chain is dull, damaged, or keeps coming off the bar.
• Possible Causes:
  • Dull Chain: Sharpen the chain.
  • Damaged Chain: Replace the chain.
  • Incorrect Chain Tension: Adjust the chain tension.
  • Worn Sprocket: Replace the sprocket.
  • Worn Bar: Replace the bar.
• Solution: Address each possible cause in order, starting with the simplest.

Advanced Tips and Techniques

Once you’ve mastered the basics of maintenance and troubleshooting, you can explore some advanced tips and techniques to further enhance your chainsaw skills.

Carburetor Adjustment

Adjusting the carburetor can optimize the engine’s performance for different conditions. The Husqvarna 42 Special typically has three adjustment screws:

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

Procedure:

1. Warm Up the Engine: Start the engine and let it warm up for a few minutes.
2. Adjust the Idle Speed: Turn the “T” screw until the engine idles smoothly without stalling.
3. Adjust the Low Speed: Turn the “L” screw until the engine accelerates smoothly from idle.
4. Adjust the High Speed: Turn the “H” screw until the engine runs smoothly at full throttle.

Important: Make small adjustments and listen to the engine’s response. Over-adjusting the carburetor can damage the engine.

Timber Falling Techniques

Felling trees safely and efficiently requires proper technique and knowledge. Here are some basic principles:

• Assess the Tree: Evaluate the tree’s lean, branch distribution, and any signs of weakness.
• Plan the Escape Route: Clear a path away from the tree in the direction of the fall.
• Make the Notch Cut: Cut a notch on the side of the tree in the direction you want it to fall. The notch should be about one-third of the tree’s diameter.
• Make the Back Cut: Cut the back cut slightly above the notch cut, leaving a hinge of wood to control the fall.
• Use Wedges: If necessary, use wedges to help direct the fall and prevent the tree from pinching the bar.

Safety First: Always wear appropriate safety gear, including a helmet, eye protection, hearing protection, and chainsaw chaps.

Wood Splitting Techniques

Splitting wood efficiently can save time and energy. Here are some tips:

• Choose the Right Tool: Use a splitting axe or maul for larger logs and a hatchet for smaller pieces.
• Aim for Cracks: Look for existing cracks in the wood and aim for those.
• Use a Splitting Block: A sturdy splitting block will provide a stable base for splitting.
• Keep Your Balance: Maintain a stable stance and keep your back straight.
• Use Wedges: If necessary, use wedges to split particularly tough logs.

Safety Precautions

Chainsaws are powerful and potentially dangerous tools. Always follow these safety precautions:

• Wear Appropriate Safety Gear: Always wear a helmet, eye protection, hearing protection, chainsaw chaps, and gloves.
• Read the Owner’s Manual: Familiarize yourself with the chainsaw’s operation and safety features.
• Maintain the Chainsaw: Keep the chainsaw in good working condition.
• Use the Chainsaw Properly: Never use the chainsaw for tasks it is not designed for.
• Be Aware of Your Surroundings: Be aware of your surroundings and avoid cutting in hazardous conditions.
• Avoid Kickback: Kickback is a sudden, uncontrolled movement of the chainsaw bar that can cause serious injury. Use proper cutting techniques and avoid cutting with the tip of the bar.
• Never Cut Above Shoulder Height: Cutting above shoulder height is dangerous and can lead to loss of control.
• Never Cut with One Hand: Always use both hands to operate the chainsaw.
• Take Breaks: Chainsaw work can be physically demanding. Take frequent breaks to avoid fatigue.

Conclusion

By understanding the nuances of your Husqvarna 42 Special, embracing diligent maintenance, and mastering essential techniques, you’ll not only extend the life of your equipment but also enhance your overall woodcutting experience. Happy cutting!

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