Is it time to replace a worn-out bar and chain on your old Husqvarna Chainsaw?
Well check out this combo kit by Oregon that includes a brand new bar and razor sharp chain, just throw it on the saw and your ready to go!
Oregon 584408 Combo Speedcut Bar/Chain, 18″
Sure you can sharpen chains, grind bars, etc…but eventually it will come time to replace. And in my option, this is probably one of the Best Husqvarna Chainsaw Bar and Chain combos on the market.
When you should replace the bar on a chainsaw?
If used properly and maintained, a chainsaw bar can last a long time.
A chainsaw bar may need to be replaced when you are no longer able to make straight cuts.
If you saw is cutting at an angle it may be time to replace the bar.
Tip, Remember to flip your chainsaw bar regularly to get the most life out of it as possible
Overtime the rail of the bar will wear and create burrs along the edges. These edges will cause the saw to cut at an angle.
In some cases you may be able to use a file to remove these edges but eventually the bar will have to be replaced.
Oregon Chainsaw Bar and Chain Installation, Husqvarna
Installation of the new bar and chain is pretty easy on this Husqvarna 350 chainsaw.
Start by removing the two bolts that hold on the chain sprocket cover.
With the cover now removed, pull off the old bar and & chain.
The new bar will install in the reverse order, on this model you can flip the bar in either direction so there is no right/wrong way.
With the bar now positioned on the saw, wrap the chain around the bar and sprocket.
***Important, Most chains are directional and must be installed facing the correct way.***
Some chains will have an arrow of direction stamped on the chain but some will not. See the photo below showing the correct direction of travel with the small guide (raker) positioned in-front of the cutting tooth.
Once you establish the correct chain direction, use the adjustment screw on the saw to fit the chain to the bar. Since chains tend to stretch out over time you may need to loosen this adjustment.
Clean out any debris around the sprocket, cover and oiler before securing the cover.
The last step is to pull “up” on the tip of the bar as you alternate between tightening the two cover bolts.
Adjust your chain tension so you can pull on the chain and still view the bottom of the drive link and your done!
When should you replace the chain on your chainsaw?
The cutting teeth on your chainsaw will dull over time and while they can be sharpened, eventually you will have to replace the entire chain. A few common signs of a dull chain are:
- having to “force” the saw through cuts. The chainsaw should pull through the wood requiring little effort from the operator
- smoke or heat coming from the cut. Forcing the cuts will result in heat causing damage to the chain, bar and saw
- uneven cuts. If the saw is cutting at an angle this can be due to a damaged/worn chain or bar, check both
- a pile of dust. A sharp chain will produce large wood chips, if you are seeing small chips or fine dust it is most likely due to a dull chain
Avoid cutting close to ground as rocks and even dirt will quickly dull a chain. If dragging trees, do your best to clean off any mud before cutting.
Inspect the chain for any broken or loose cutting teeth, if anything appears damaged it is best to replace.
Oregon Husqvarna Chainsaw Bar and Chain combo
Oregon makes great replacement bar and chain combo kits for Husqvarna, Stihl, Echo, Homelite, Poulan, Craftsman and more.
For the money, they are one of the best I have used and I prefer them over the OEM Husqvarna.
Keep your chainsaw in good shape and your saw will last you many years.
working is so cool with that husky. thanks for this cool post.