Getting a robust chainsaw that cuts faster is a win-win! The reason behind picking the Husqvarna 550 XP is similar. But over time, will it be smoothly operating? I highly doubt it, and so do the users. Question arises, how can you detect the problems?
Well, I have the motto to spell out here. Also, I’ll let you know how to solve them quickly in DIY.
So, what are the key Husqvarna 550 XP problems? The major problems come up with faulty spark plug, engine overheating, etc. Also, you’ll see the engine producing excessive vibration over time. This chainsaw also forces the fuel to come outside. Along with that, you can’t ignore issues like start delaying and having difficulty over-start!
Hopefully, you’ve got some hints but that’s not enough. In this article, I’ll unfold the top Husqvarna 550 XP problems and solutions.
Husqvarna 550 XP Mark 2 Problems and Fixes: Quick Table
If you are experienced in using a chainsaw and can read its problems, then the table below is enough for you to solve common problems.
| Husqvarna 550 XP Problems | Quick Fixes |
|---|---|
| Idling issue | Clean and adjust the carburetor, as well as the air filter and spark plug. |
| Difficult starting after stalled | Clean the carburetor, remove excess gas from the combustion chamber, and use the right fuel. |
| Dies after running | Clean the air filter and spark plug. Clean and adjust the carburetor as well. |
| Starting problem when warm/hot | Wrap the carburetor divider and fuel line with a thermal reflective tape. |
| Drive sprocket problem | Replace the chain and sprocket. |
| Carb issues | Clean the carburetor properly, replaces it if possible. |
| Issue with chain brake | Reset the chain brake. |
| Overheating | Adjust the carburetor and modify the exhaust port. |
| Oiler problem | Clean and reinstall the oiler, replace it if not working after cleaning. |
| Auto-tune problems | Clean the air filter and carburetor then reset auto-tune. |
10 Common Husqvarna 550 XP Mark 2 Problems and Fixes: Detailed Guide
Here, I would like to provide a detailed guide to fixing common problems of the Husqvarna 550 XP chainsaw. If you have great experience in using a chainsaw, this guideline will aid you a lot.
Problem 1: Idling Issue
Is your chainsaw running at high rpm or stalling at idle? Running at high rpm can waste fuel, and frequent stalling is annoying. Neither of these is desirable.
Cause:
Usually, your chainsaw can behave like this if the carburetor is not properly adjusted. A dirty air filter or dirty spark plugs can also be to blame.
How To Fix:
Clean your chainsaw’s air filter and spark plugs to fix idling problems. Then clean and adjust the carburetor. Pay particular attention to the carburetor’s low-speed screw.
The low-speed screw controls the amount of fuel and air mixture when the chainsaw is running at low speeds. Adjust by turning it clockwise or counterclockwise. Next, if the chainsaw stops at idle, adjust by turning the Idle Screw counterclockwise. Also, adjust by turning Idle Screw clockwise when running at high rpm at idle.
Watch the video below to adjust a chainsaw’s carburetor properly.
Problem 2: Difficult Starting After Stalled
Many Husqvarna 550 XP users have reported that their chainsaw has trouble starting after being stalled. Many inexperienced users find this type of problem too serious and get frustrated. However, you can quickly fix this problem yourself from now on!
Cause:
There are several reasons your chainsaw may have trouble starting after being shut off. A clogged carburetor and bad gas are commonly identified among these. Plug faults and a flooded engine can also cause problems.
How To Fix:
To fix this problem, you need to clean the carburetor and fuel lines thoroughly. Also, clean the spark plug and replace it if possible. Leave the chainsaw for 30 minutes if there is excess gas in the engine’s combustion chamber. If left for this period, the gases accumulated in the combustion chamber will evaporate. Always use quality fresh gas to stay trouble-free.
Problem 3: Dies After Running
It’s very annoying that your chainsaw starts but dies again after a few seconds. Such behavior of the chainsaw can make you uninterested in the work.
Cause:
Although the Husqvarna 550 XP Mark 2 chainsaw has the Auto-Tune feature, a dirty air filter can be to blame for this problem. Also, problems with the spark plug and carburetor can cause frequent shutdowns.
How To Fix:
To fix the dies after running problems, replace the chainsaw’s air filter. Clean and adjust the carburetor thoroughly. Clean the spark plug, and replace it if necessary. If the fuel is old, discard it and use fresh fuel.
Problem 4: Starting Problem When Warm/Hot
Have you ever had a chainsaw that overheats and won’t start? Husqvarna 550 XP chainsaw users have reported this happening.
Cause:
Starting problem usually occurs when the carburetor overheats. This happens especially when the divider fails.
How To Fix:
You can get the chainsaw working again as a temporary solution to this problem. For this, you need to use thermal reflective tape. Wrap the divider as much as possible with thermal reflective tape. Don’t forget to wrap the fuel line at the same time.
Problem 5: Drive Sprocket Problem
If you notice the chain is not turning at the required speed or there is noise between the sprockets, you will know there is a problem with the chainsaw’s drive sprocket. These types of issues can decimate the chainsaw’s performance.
Cause:
This problem occurs when the chain or drive sprocket is old or corroded.
How To Fix:
If the sprocket teeth are worn, you can try to repair them. In this case, it would be wise to replace the old chain or drive the sprocket.
The video below will help you replace the drive sprocket.
Problem 6: Carb Issues
When the carburetor does not function properly, a chainsaw won’t start, the engine stalls, bogs down, and more problems can occur. If there is a problem with the carburetor of the chainsaw, you will face many problems while operating it.
Cause:
Using bad fuel and leaving the chainsaw unused for a long time are the principal causes of this problem. If the fuel in the carburetor oxidizes, insoluble debris forms. This debris plugs the carburetor’s fine fuel passages and prevents fuel from reaching the combustion chamber.
How To Fix:
To fix this problem, you need to open the carburetor and clean it very well. You should be careful to keep the fine fuel passages clear. If that doesn’t fix it, you may need to replace the carburetor.
Problem 7: Issue With Chain Brake
The chain brake protects the operator from the chainsaw’s chain. It can be dangerous if it doesn’t work properly. Unfortunately, our own mistakes can often lead to chain brake problems. But luckily, you can fix it yourself.
Cause:
Normally, the side cover does not open when the chain brake of the chainsaw is engaged. If you force the side cover off in this condition, the chain brake may have a problem and need to be adjusted.
How To Fix:
After opening the clutch cover to reset the chain brake, also remove the guide bar and chain. Place the chain brake lever in the engaged position and engage the chainsaw by pressing the side cover firmly. Hold the clutch cover with the chainsaw with the right hand and try to move the brake lever to the disengaged position with the left hand.
Move the lever to the disengaged position and then bring it back to the engaged position without releasing the pressure on the side cover. At this stage, you will hear a beep sound and hopefully, your chainsaw’s chain brake has reset.
The video below can also be quite helpful in this regard.
Problem 8: Overheating
Chainsaw Overheating problems hinder continuous operation. Stopping the chainsaw every once in a while to cool the engine is annoying and slows down the job.
Cause:
A chainsaw’s engine can overheat quickly if there is an imbalance in the fuel-air mixture in the combustion chamber because of problems with the carburetor. Also, using the wrong fuel and oil mixture and the accumulation of dirt in the exhaust port can cause overheating problems in the chainsaw.
How To Fix:
Adjust the carburetor well to solve the overheating problem. Clean the exhaust system, and modify it if necessary. Be sure to use the fuel and oil mixture recommended by the company to avoid problems.
Problem 9: Oiler Problem
If the chainsaw’s oiler or the oil pump is not working, the bar and chain are not properly lubricated. As a result, the performance of the chainsaw decreases, and the chain and guide bar wear out quickly.
Cause:
Using low-quality dirty oil, a dirty oil filter can be responsible for oil problems. However, even the oiler can deteriorate over time if it gets too old.
How To Fix:
If there is a problem with the oiler, you need to remove, clean thoroughly, and reinstall the oiler. Below the clutch mechanism is usually the oiler. After removing the clutch mechanism, also remove the back cover below it. At this stage, you will have access to Oiler.
Open the oiler and clean thoroughly and reinstall. Check if it works or not. If not, you need to replace it. In case of replacement, you must match its part number.
You may also check the video below to get help replacing the oiler.
Problem 10: Auto-tune Problems
The Husqvarna 550 XP chainsaw’s auto-tune feature is a very handy addition. It automatically adjusts the fuel and air mixture in the combustion chamber for different ambient and operating conditions. Auto-Tune may need to be adjusted if you are not getting the required rpm from the chainsaw while you are working, or if the rpm fluctuates.
How To Fix:
Hold touching the tip of the guide bar with a log for 30 to 45 seconds at full throttle. At first, the rpm will go up and down, but at some point, the chainsaw will continue to run at a certain rpm. The procedure is quite simple, if you want you can also watch the video below.
How To Take Care Of Husqvarna 572 XP (Step By Step)
To get outstanding performance consistently from the Husqvarna 550 XP chainsaw for a long time, it needs to be maintenance conscious. By spending a little time at the end of work each day, you can ensure its maintenance. I will describe the maintenance process step by step here.
Step 1: Clean Chain Brake Mechanism
You can use a brush or compressed air to clean the chain brake mechanism. The chain brake is usually attached to the interior of the clutch cover. Clean this well.
Step 2: Check The Throttle Mechanism
Check the throttle mechanism for proper operation. Many times, the accumulation of dirt obstructs the throttle mechanism. Clean thoroughly if such a problem occurs.
Step 3: Examine The Chain Catch
The chain catch plays an important role in keeping the guide bar and chain firmly connected. Check it for any damage. It may need to be replaced if problems occur.
Step 4: Observe The Guide Bar
Guide bars need to be in proper shape for smooth operation. Make sure there is no distortion in the shape of the guide bar. Thoroughly clean the lubricated hole in the underside of the guide bar and the grove in the guide bar.
Step 5: Check The Chain
After cleaning the chain thoroughly, observe it for cracks or other problems. If any, take the necessary steps to resolve it. Check whether the chain is sharp. Sharpen the chain if not and adjust the tension.
Step 6: Examine The Drive Sprocket
Observe the drive sprocket. Clean off any dirt or oil build-up.
Step 7: Clear The Air Intake
Open the plastic cover of the air intake and clean it using a brush or compress gun. Don’t forget to clean the inside as much as possible. After attaching the air intake cover, tighten the nuts well.
Step 8: Check The Stop Switch
Check whether the stop switch works properly. If there is any dirt around the switch, clean those.
Step 9: Observe The Fuel Tank And Fuel Lines
Check the fuel tank cap to make sure it is fastened properly. Check the fuel line for leaks.
Step 10: Clean The Entire Surface
Now you have come to the last step and cleanse the entire chainsaw surface before storing it.
You can also learn how to maintain the chainsaw from the user manual. I have described the simple and brief Husqvarna 550 XP chainsaw maintenance process here.
Specifications And Key Features Of Husqvarna 550 XP
Here, I’m presenting the specifications and key features in a very short form. Hope this is enough to get a clear picture of the performance of this chainsaw model.
Specifications
- Power source: Gas
- Displacement: 50.1 cc
- Power output: 4 hp
- Idling speed: 2800 rpm
- Maximum speed: 10,200 rpm
- Powerhead weight: 11.7 lbs
- Recommended guide bar length: 20 inches
- Fuel tank capacity: 643 ml
Key Features
- Excellent cooling capacity: The Company has optimized this feature to give a reliable chainsaw for any situation. The feature contributes to longer engine life.
- LowVib: This feature works to reduce vibration levels and helps the operator to work smoothly and consistently.
- Slimmed-down design: A chainsaw with a slender body is easy for handling. The slimmed-down design makes the Husqvarna 550 XP chainsaw more convenient and easy to handle.
- Air Injection: This feature removes larger dust and debris particles before they reach the air filter. As a result, there is no need to clean the air filter frequently.
- Magnesium crankcase: High rpm and rigorous professional use require the chainsaw’s crankcase to be solidly built. The Husqvarna 550 XP’s magnesium crankcase ensures long service life.
- Retained bar nuts: It is a retaining function to prevent the bar nuts from being lost.
- Adjustable oil pump: The operator can control the flow of oil based on the application and weather. It increases efficiency and reduces wastage.
Top 3 Alternative Saws of Husqvarna 550 XP Chainsaw
In the meantime, you will find the Husqvarna 562 XP chainsaw similar to the 550 XP! If you go through its specs, you will see the 562 XP weighs around 13.7 lbs which is a bit heavier than the 550 XP.
Also, the 562 XP comes with a more advanced centrifugal air cleaning system. Along with that, you will find it employs the X-Torq engine, the same one from the 550 XP.
This robust but lightweight professional chainsaw is a perfect tool to handle heavy-duty cutting works. Having an anti-vibration system enables users to suitably use this for longer hours continuously. Its brand new design is maneuver-friendly. And, it puts little gyroscopic force on acceleration.
- Dolmar PS-9010 Chainsaw
This saw is also a robust one! Coming with a 89cc engine and an extensive guide bar, it serves users higher cutting volume. You will find here an optimized vibration damping and dual hand protector too.
User Feedback Regarding Husqvarna 550 XP Problems
I would like to describe here the experience of two Husqvarna 550 XP chainsaw users. This will help us understand the problems with the chainsaw model.
One chainsaw user reported his Husqvarna 550 XP Chainsaw starts reasonably well when cold. It sometimes starts when hot, but not often. After he installed a new carburetor on his chainsaw, the problem persisted. He took the chainsaw to the dealer, and they found no problem. However, if you leave the chainsaw for 30 minutes, it has no problem starting.
Another user reported starting his 550 XP chainsaw with fresh fuel mixed 50:1 per company instructions. After a few tries, the chainsaw started but stopped after a while. He has been trying for 2 days, but his chainsaw keeps restarting after restarting.
Frequently Asked Question
Is The Husqvarna 550 XP A Professional Saw?
Yes, the Husqvarna 550 XP is a true professional chainsaw. You can use this chainsaw model for various professional tasks.
What is The Weight Of Husqvarna 550 XP?
A Husqvarna 550 XP chainsaw’s powerhead alone weighs 11.7 lbs without cutting accessories.
How Many Horsepower Is A Husqvarna 550 XP Mark 2?
The Husqvarna 550 XP Mark 2 chainsaw has a 50.1 cc engine that can produce 4 hp of power.
What is Husqvarna Smart Start?
Smart Start of Husqvarna can balance out the momentum increment. And it develops while the piston reaches its most elevated level. This unique technology installed in your Husqvarna chainsaw will ensure an easy starting which is quite beginner-friendly. So, you can easily pull the starter rope of your chainsaw. Relevantly, it saves a lot of time and money- both.
How long will a Husqvarna chainsaw last?
If you operate this chainsaw regularly for decent times, it can last for at least 10 years or more than that. However, if you take extra care and maintenance, you might get service from this chainsaw for up to 20 to 30 years.
Is The 550 XP A Good Saw?
Yes, the Husqvarna 550 XP is a really good chainsaw. Although some problems may occur with this chainsaw, problems can occur with any chainsaw.
When Was The Husqvarna 550 XP Made?
The Husqvarna 550 XP chainsaw model first hit the market in 2012. Later, its updated version, Husqvarna 550 XP Mark 2, was launched by the company in the market in 2014.
Can I Get This With A 20″ Bar?
Yes, you can get a Husqvarna 550 XP chainsaw with a 20-inch guide bar. The company markets this chainsaw model with 16-inch, 18-inch, and 20-inch guide bars.
Final Words Regarding Husqvarna 550 XP Problems
That’s all about the top husqvarna 550 xp problems that I want you to know!
Final tip is, any issue you face, don’t panic and try to solve it like what I’ve mentioned here by yourself! Replacement of any parts adds up to extra cost. So, carry on the cleaning process first and then go for replacing one!
