Husqvarna 240 Chainsaw Manual

The Husqvarna 240 is a lightweight, gas-powered chainsaw designed for homeowners and occasional users. It features a 40.9cc X-Torq engine for reduced emissions, Smart Start for easier starting, an inertia-activated chain brake, LowVib anti-vibration system, and an ergonomic design. Below are key sections for safety, features, assembly, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

1. Features at a Glance 2. Safety Information 3. Assembly & Preparation 4. Specifications 5. Controls and Components 6. Starting & Stopping 7. Operating Instructions 8. Maintenance 9. Chain & Bar Care 10. Storage 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: X-Torq engine, combined choke/stop control, inertia-activated chain brake, front hand guard, chain tensioner, fuel tank, oil tank, and ergonomic handles.

FeatureDescription
X-Torq EngineReduces fuel consumption and exhaust emissions
Smart StartSimplified starting system with automatic decompression valve
Inertia-Activated Chain BrakeStops chain instantly in kickback situations
LowVib SystemReduces vibration for user comfort
Combined Choke/Stop ControlSingle lever for choke, run, and stop positions
Air InjectionCentrifugal air cleaning system for longer filter life
Chain TensionerSide-mounted for easy chain adjustment
Front Hand GuardProtects hands from debris and branches
Transparent Fuel TankEasy fuel level monitoring
Ergonomic HandlesDesigned for comfortable grip and control

Safety Information

Read and understand all safety instructions before use. Wear appropriate PPE.

  1. Personal Protective Equipment: Always wear safety glasses, hearing protection, gloves, chainsaw chaps/pants, and sturdy boots.
  2. Work Area Safety: Keep bystanders and pets at least 15 feet away. Ensure secure footing.
  3. Chain Brake: Test chain brake function before each use.
  4. Kickback Awareness: Be aware of kickback zone (upper quadrant of bar tip).

WARNING! Improper use can cause serious injury or death. Never operate when tired or under influence. Keep hands away from chain.

Assembly & Preparation

Unpack and inspect contents. Assemble bar and chain, fill fluids.

  1. Attach Guide Bar & Chain: Place bar on mounting studs, loop chain over sprocket and bar, adjust tension.
  2. Fill Fuel: Use fresh unleaded gasoline (min 89 octane) mixed with 2-stroke oil (Husqvarna XP+ or equivalent) at 50:1 ratio.
  3. Fill Chain Oil: Use quality bar & chain oil. Fill oil tank.
  4. Check Controls: Ensure throttle trigger, throttle lockout, and chain brake function properly.

CAUTION! Fuel is flammable. Refuel outdoors, away from ignition sources. Wipe spills immediately.

Specifications

Controls and Components

Main components: Front handle with hand guard, rear handle, throttle trigger, throttle lockout, combined choke/stop control, chain brake lever, chain tensioner, fuel cap, oil cap.

Controls: Combined control lever (Choke/Stop/Run), throttle trigger, throttle lockout (must be pressed to engage throttle), chain brake lever (front hand guard), decompression valve (for easier starting), primer bulb (on some models).

Safety Features: Chain brake (inertia-activated and manual), right-hand guard, chain catcher, vibration dampeners.

Starting & Stopping

Cold Start Procedure:

  1. Place saw on firm ground. Engage chain brake.
  2. Press decompression valve (if equipped).
  3. Move combined control lever to choke position.
  4. Press primer bulb 6-8 times (if equipped).
  5. Pull starter handle until engine fires (1-3 pulls).
  6. Move control lever to run position.
  7. Pull starter to start engine.
  8. Disengage chain brake before cutting.

Warm Start: Control lever in run position. No choke needed.

Stopping: Release throttle, move control lever to stop position.

Operating Instructions

Proper cutting techniques for safety and efficiency.

  1. Grip: Hold firmly with both hands, right hand on rear handle, left on front.
  2. Stance: Stand with feet shoulder-width apart, left foot slightly forward.
  3. Starting Cut: Let chain reach full speed before contacting wood.
  4. Basic Cuts: Use lower quadrant of bar for felling and bucking.
  5. Kickback Prevention: Never cut with upper quadrant of bar tip. Be aware of pinch points.
  6. Refueling: Stop engine completely and allow to cool before refueling.

Tip: Let saw do the work; don't force it. Keep chain sharp and properly tensioned.

Maintenance

Regular maintenance ensures optimal performance and longevity.

IntervalTask
Daily/Before UseCheck chain tension, sharpness, and lubrication; inspect for damage
Every 10 hoursClean air filter; check spark plug
Every 20 hoursClean cooling fins; check fuel filter
Every 50 hoursReplace spark plug; clean carburetor air intake
SeasonallyInspect anti-vibration elements; check all nuts/bolts

CAUTION! Always disconnect spark plug before performing maintenance.

Chain & Bar Care

Proper chain maintenance is critical for safety and performance.

  1. Sharpening: Use round file (5/32" or 4.0mm) and file guide. Maintain correct filing angle (30°).
  2. Tensioning: Chain should be snug against bar but pull freely. Adjust when cold.
  3. Lubrication: Ensure oiler is working. Chain should throw small oil droplets during operation.
  4. Bar Maintenance: Clean bar groove regularly. Flip bar periodically for even wear.

WARNING! A dull chain increases kickback risk. Replace worn or damaged chains immediately.

Storage

Proper storage prevents fuel system issues.

  1. Short-term (under 30 days): Fill fuel tank to prevent condensation.
  2. Long-term: Drain fuel tank and run engine dry. Remove chain and clean. Store in dry place.
  3. Fuel Stabilizer: If storing with fuel, add fuel stabilizer per instructions.

CAUTION! Store out of reach of children. Never store with fuel in tank in enclosed spaces.

Troubleshooting

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
Engine won't startNo spark, flooded, old fuelCheck spark plug; use fresh fuel; follow cold start procedure
Engine starts then diesClogged fuel filter, dirty air filterReplace fuel filter; clean air filter
Poor performanceDull chain, clogged air filterSharpen chain; clean air filter
Chain won't oilEmpty oil tank, clogged oilerFill oil tank; clean oil holes in bar
Excessive vibrationLoose components, worn AV mountsTighten all nuts/bolts; inspect anti-vibration elements
Chain comes off barLoose chain, worn barAdjust chain tension; replace worn bar

Service: For repairs beyond basic maintenance, contact authorized Husqvarna service dealer.

Support: Husqvarna USA: 1-800-487-5962; www.husqvarna.com/us

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