Part 6 - Stihl 044 Magnum Rebuild - Case Split & Crankshaft Removal

[@walker11288]

On my 046 I used the tool that slots over the crankshaft and sits on the back of the bearing, you then push the crank through the bearing which brings the case with it. Looks like a big G-clamp. Use this on both halves. Worked well. I think this is the Husqvarna tool you mentioned? I've got an 044 to do too and will use the same tool.

[@beliddel]

@@walker11288 Yes, you can use the Husqvarna splitter on many saws, and is a bit quicker/easier to use. But, can also be a little harder to line up, and the part of that tool that nestles inside the case can sometimes mar the crankcase, but in the end gets the job done.

[@goldentrucker7921]

Solid videos. I just got a pretty good 044. Very nice condition. 160 psi of compression. I'm pretty sure I've got an air leak, or bad carb. Thinking oil seal, or intake boot most likely though. I'm Going to do a leak down test. But first I'm going to change fuel line, impulse, and intake boot. I actually have a brand new oem carburetor. So I'm going to slap that on first. Then new lines. And see if i have my idle issues still. Feel like i have a clutch side oil seal leak though.

[@beliddel]

Yes, those are all typical things that need replacing if the saw is old and has never been serviced. Once you get past taking the fuel tank off, might as well do everything else. If you have no reason to suspect that the base gasket is leaking, then you shouldn’t have to worry about splitting open the case, just popping out the two oil seals carefully. If the seals have never been replaced, I would highly recommend doing so on both sides.

[@goldentrucker7921]

@beliddel I'm going to do both sides . I have the Stihl seal puller, and stihl installation tool. I have all lines, intake boot, full gasket kit from stihl. A ton of all oem parts for 044 & my new 046. I'm about 100% its the seals. Also going to do fuel filter, brake cover, impulse, clutch & sprocket components. Last I'll be doing a new recoil rope & handle plus pawl & tank vent. Everything genuine stihl. Am i missing anything?

[@beliddel]

@@goldentrucker7921 Wouldn’t hurt to replace the exhaust gasket as well. Also, make sure you get a very good look at the piston through the plug port, and intake and exhaust ports. That might also give you a peak as some of the cylinder. That way you can assure yourself on the state of the cylinder and piston. Since you’ll have almost everything apart anyway, that would be the time to pop off the cylinder, replacing the gasket and possibly touching up the cylinder and piston if only minor scoring is found. But, if you find absolutely no indication of scoring, and no indication that there are leaks around the base gasket, then hopefully could get by without having to do a full top-end or bottom end rebuild. You’ll no doubt learn a lot and have great fun with your rebuild. Good luck, hope all goes well.