Replacing a Chainsaw Piston and Cylinder

In a previous video, I attempted to repair 4 free chainsaws. This Husqvarna 440 had low compression and wouldn't start so I set it aside, assuming it needed a new piston and cylinder. I cannibalized the oil pump from this saw to repair one of the others so I needed to replace that too. I was able to find aftermarket parts for around $50 bucks so I decided it was worth trying to fix. See the links below for the parts and tools I used:
Piston & Cylinder Kit:
www.ebay.com/i...
Oil Pump:
amzn.to/3ggQOpW (affiliate*)
~OR~
www.ebay.com/i...
Carb Adjustment Tool:
amzn.to/3k0QiLc (affiliate*)
Compression Tester:
amzn.to/3x0cAnI (affiliate*)
Hemostat Locking Forceps:
amzn.to/2Uxik7l (affiliate*)
Zoom Oiler (like Mustie1 uses):
amzn.to/2QcbXGS (affiliate*)
*Purchasing from these Amazon affiliate links earns my channel a small commission. Think of it as a tip that doesn't cost you anything. Thanks for the support!

[@Mikeattempts]

Piston & Cylinder Kit: www.ebay.com/itm/133485836142 Oil Pump: amzn.to/3ggQOpW (affiliate*) ~OR~ www.ebay.com/itm/122592795614 Carb Adjustment Tool: amzn.to/3k0QiLc (affiliate*) Compression Tester: amzn.to/3x0cAnI (affiliate*) Hemostat Locking Forceps: amzn.to/2Uxik7l (affiliate*) Zoom Oiler (like Mustie1 uses): amzn.to/2QcbXGS (affiliate*) *Purchasing from these Amazon affiliate links earns my channel a small commission. Think of it as a tip that doesn't cost you anything. Thanks for the support!

[@MisterTDiSalvo187]

This is the absolute best video on disassembling a Husqvarna. Instructional, informative, direct and to the point without any extra bs. Thank you 1000 times. Please make more videos. The other KZbin videos suck.

[@Mikeattempts]

Thanks man, I appreciate it!

[@unwanted021092]

Best video of replacing piston & cylinder.Love from Borneo Island🫡

[@Mikeattempts]

Thank you very much, I appreciate the feedback. I'm also amazed to have a viewer from Borneo! :)

[@777EthanB]

Great video! I have an old husqvarna 61 and a stihl ms170 to work on. Husky has many years of faithful service on it and my dad gave it to me about 20 years ago. Gotta get her running smooth again.

[@Mikeattempts]

Thanks! This was my first time replacing cylinder and piston. If I can do it, so can you! :) Let me know how it goes!

[@slowallin3144]

Incredibly thorough without any waste, what a thoughtful video.

[@Mikeattempts]

Thanks, I really appreciate the positive feedback!

[@LifeWithSevenSons]

I just followed this video to replace a destroyed piston in my Husqvarna 350. Two lessons here: 1. Awesome video. It was my first time rebuilding a chainsaw. 2. Have this video ready next time I loan my chainsaw to a neighbor.

[@Mikeattempts]

Hahaha, I'm glad the video was helpful! That neighbor would now be on my "Do Not Lend Tools" list. ;)

[@LifeWithSevenSons]

@@Mikeattempts Same. His words were: "It stopped suddenly and was smoking, and I couldn't pull it, but it will probably be alright." 😂

[@Mikeattempts]

@@LifeWithSevenSons "It will probably be alright"?!?! Dang, it takes some guts to say something like that after you know you just ruined your neighbor's saw. :)

[@daszieher]

​@@Mikeattemptsmy neighbour and I both have good tools and take care of them. We don't lend them out, not even to each other 😂.

[@Mikeattempts]

@@daszieher Yeah, I feel bad declining requests to borrow my tools, but people just don't take care of stuff. You'd think if you borrowed something, you'd take even better care of it than if it was your own.

[@How2Man_101]

I'm doing this repair today on a saw that I accidentally poured the wrong can of non mix gas into. I have 2 guesses as to what happened to your saw, 1. Some idiots will use used motor oil and mix it at a higher oil ratio thinking they will save money or a trip to town. It ruins them pretty quick from people Ive heard stories about that mistake. That aftermath usually leaves more wear and scarring. 2. They used bar and chain oil instead of 2stroke oil. But if i were a betting man this is why the saw failed. Thanks for the video. The instructions will be invaluable.

[@Mikeattempts]

I agree, I think it was a brand-new saw being operated by a first timer and they used bar oil instead of 2-stroke in the fuel.

[@How2Man_101]

Yeah my saw with many hard hours on it came apart easily until the cylinder bolts. Snapped 2 decent quality Allen wrenches, Kobalt and Craftsman. Tomorrow i will ball file the heads off and replace the cylinder hardware with new. I do want to get one out to see if they used a thread locking compound.

[@Mikeattempts]

@@How2Man_101 Man, that sucks when a project is going smooth and then all of a sudden throws you a curve ball! Let me know how it goes.

[@bradpotter6401]

Great instructional video! I like seeing a nice clean work bench and clean parts to assemble. I also like the way you reinstall the screws by hand. It's much too easy to cross thread or over tighten screws when putting them back in with power tools, especially when they're threaded into plastic. A few suggestions would to be using a gauge to set the air gap on the coil and to get new seals for the crankcase. Even though they are still flexible they could take a set and be flattened out. I'd use a little sealant too just for good luck.

[@Mikeattempts]

Thanks for the feedback, I appreciate it! :) I agree, normally I would have replaced the seals and it's cheap insurance. However, many signs pointed to the possibility that this saw gave up on its first tank of gas. I think the previous owner might have used bar oil instead of 2-stroke oil in the fuel. I thought it over and decided to reuse the seals.

[@jamestillman3150]

This is a great, concise, and clear how to video. Refreshing. Thank you. I also saw another video with a piston similar to what you experienced. His had melted at the top of the piston and the rings had fused to it. He said it was from not allowing the saw to warm up before diving into major logging jobs.

[@Mikeattempts]

Thank you! Dang, that sound like a pretty extreme failure. I was able to clean the original parts and they're in great shape.

[@LucasRichardStephens]

It looks like it has never been used to cut wood. Thanks for sharing!

[@Mikeattempts]

Yeah, I think the saw was only used a little bit before it lost compression. The original owner must have used the wrong oil in the fuel or something, I'm still not sure. Thanks for watching!

[@av7049]

Top Notch. Thanks Mike, salvaged a knackered Husqvarna thanks to your video. Keep them coming.

[@Mikeattempts]

Awesome, I'm happy to hear the video was helpful! Thanks for taking the time to leave a comment, I appreciate it. :)

[@CSilva-nx6go]

I wish you had not made that look so straight forward and easy. Oh did I say fun? Thank you sir!

[@Mikeattempts]

Hahaha, thanks, I appreciate it! :)

[@Abcdef-zp1lq]

Hi mike, I just rebuilt my top end in my husqvarna 450 rancher, thank you for this wonderful vid! I understood everything and made everything so much more simple.

[@Mikeattempts]

That's great to hear, thanks for the comment! :)

[@Abcdef-zp1lq]

@@Mikeattempts Thanks for the vid!

[@DJInclined]

Just did this on my 435. Worked great! Super helpful video.

[@Mikeattempts]

That's good to hear, thanks for the feedback! :)

[@mrbrown6421]

Great confidence builder. I'll check out my 440 on a warm day. Thanks Mike!

[@Mikeattempts]

Thanks for watching!

[@bobdixon4998]

I had to come back and say how professional the narration, and edit and production was! Im several years late but you should be in the video production business. It was like a personally made edition of the tv show "how it's made". Thank you again!!

[@Mikeattempts]

Wow, thanks for the positive feedback! Editing is by far the most time-consuming part so it's nice to know people appreciate my video style.

[@bobdixon4998]

@@Mikeattempts oh I forgot your parents are cool. It's nice that they are supportive. Many parents aren't supportive of young men or women working or owning a business and being self sufficient. Many think the government should do it for you😂😂😂 have a great day!

[@Mikeattempts]

@@bobdixon4998 Yep, it is nice to have the support, thanks for the comment!

[@fwbfsh]

Excellent video and not being a mechanic by trade, the video has given me the confidence that I can repair my 455. Compression test was 50 so I ordered a piston kit today and will use your video as a guide. Thanks for your help!!

[@Mikeattempts]

If I can do it, you can do it. :) Thanks for watching!

[@viperstrike3827]

50 is awful low. Did the saw get straight gassed?

[@OveBakken]

6 months later - how did the 445 repair go?

[@hoosiercarry1149]

@@viperstrike3827 I must have straight gassed mine without knowing it. So I just ordered a kit for my 460. Hopefully I can do this!

[@melaniecharbonneau3122]

You must be a master at small engine repair

[@Mikeattempts]

Far from it, this was the first time I've ever replaced a cylinder and piston. Thanks for watching!

[@MrFreeknassty]

Nice to see a homeowner grade saw rebuilt, a little different than the professional or xp husqvarna saw. Very nice job. Compression should go up as u break it in.

[@Mikeattempts]

Thanks for the feedback, I appreciate it! :)

[@safetyharborfirearms]

Great video ...in the process of recylindering my Craftsmen saw

[@Mikeattempts]

Thanks, let me know how it goes with the Craftsman!

[@RG-wy1ol]

Thanks Mike for making this video.

[@Mikeattempts]

Thank you for watching the video! :)

[@MrTimstaaa]

Thank's for the step by step guide. I've got a 445 E ii and im guessing It'll be about the same in term's of tear down. I'll save this for my rebuild when the time comes. 👍🏼

[@Mikeattempts]

Yep, it should be almost exactly the same, let me know how it goes! :)

[@soil-aint-dirt4903]

I really enjoyed your video…thanks for posting!

[@Mikeattempts]

Thanks for the positive feedback, I appreciate it!

[@wingnutt4200]

Details were AWESOME!!!

[@Mikeattempts]

Thanks, I appreciate the feedback!

[@wingnutt4200]

@@Mikeattempts now if you could figure out how to get a hemorrhoid from sticking to the underwear? You could be a called the G. O. A. T....

[@Mikeattempts]

@@wingnutt4200 Hahahahaha!

[@samwalker7944]

Use 2 stroke oil, not a 3 in 1 oil for gasket and ring lubrication. Also when removing wrist pin, if it’s not coming out easy, and you’ve tried lubrication and twisting it, ensure the Conrod is fully supported if you take a hammer and punch to it, you’ll easily knacker or put the conrod/bearing/crank out of tru :) Torque wrench for re fitting Thanks for the vid though very handy

[@Mikeattempts]

Thanks for the tips and thanks for watching!

[@skidscraper1634]

Excellent video . Superb clear instructions . Thanks.

[@Mikeattempts]

I appreciate the comment, thanks for watching!

[@kevinleetreetimefpv111]

Great video. This is the first video I have found actually installing the pin in the piston and the jug on to the piston. Thanks for that. Much easier than expected. Thanks. Great job. I have a stihl ms 362 that needs a jug and piston. Thx

[@Mikeattempts]

I'm always happy to hear when my videos are helpful, thanks for the comment!

[@MorsMutualInsurance862]

Well on a saw it is much easier to change a piston because the crankshaft housing is open so you can clean metal shards out or something that is fallen into it to prevent that the piston gets stuck on a motorcycle its a struggle because either nothing is in there or your new piston and cylinder get destroyed so when there is something you need to take the hole engine apart and split the engine.

[@jedgeled759]

i got one a few years ago,,used it twice and never started again ,even with a new carb and plug etc..now i am ready to tear it down and see what happened,,i can see a little scoring on the piston so now i feel confidant on puttting in a new "c0mbo" with Your video,,,Thanks !!!!

[@Mikeattempts]

I'm glad the video was helpful, let me know how your rebuild goes! :)

[@lowlandvideonz4092]

HI Mike WHAT a fantastic video you made here sharp picture at all time,I like you subtitles and clear voice over ,I know as video production man how hard it is to make GOOD stuff like this ,I like your speeding up of some of the process to shortened the video time ,I have a Husqvarna 236 that looks near the same and have put the wrong fuel into to run ,a new coil and a aftermarket carburettor made it still a dead chains saw ,so I was looking for a video that give me the some info how to tackle the next job of removing and replacing the pistol ,Your Video made my day ,Thanks from LOWLAND VIDEO PRODUCTION in New Zealand for your video .

[@Mikeattempts]

I really appreciate your kind words! I try to make my videos how I would want to watch them, all of the info you need and none of the fluff. ;) Thanks for the comment!

[@ronaldgreen7467]

PEOPLE should know that the piston ring can be put on upside down.learned the hard way.

[@Mikeattempts]

Yep, hopefully they'd realize when they weren't able to get it to compress enough to fit in the cylinder. Thanks for the comment!

[@imacgst27]

I know everyone has already told you, but I also just wanted to say what a great video!!! Thank you for taking the time to make it.

[@Mikeattempts]

Thank you for taking the time to watch it and leave me some positive feedback!

[@markcoull6496]

Wow! Nice and clear. I will try the rebuild my self. Thanks

[@Mikeattempts]

I appreciate the positive feedback, thanks for watching!

[@adrianopruneri4470]

Thank you for your very helpfull guide! I apologized but my English is rather bad. I manage to change piston ring of my 440II because it hadn't any compression. I found original ring piston completely closed around piston. I had to chance it becuase I've broken it during maintenance. Cilinder surface wasn' t ruined, however even if motorsaw functions, it seems to have not original compression. Bye from Itay.

[@Mikeattempts]

Yeah, you probably wouldn't see original compression levels when only replacing the piston ring, but I'm no pro. Even if the cylinder looks ok, it's probably still a least a little worn. But, as long as it runs and cuts, I would call that a success. :) Thanks for watching!

[@georgepolymise8029]

Need to do this repair as well, you make it look easy, thanks for sharing.

[@Mikeattempts]

I appreciate the comment, thanks for watching!

[@dalebertdurando1496]

Interesting for me. Non-starting 450 Rancher. Good compression, new carb, fresh 'Husky' gas, etc. Piston at exhaust port looked fine. Piston on intake side however was badly scored, indented about 1/8 inch, and cracked at the skirt. The scoring was as wide as the piston rod. I didn't see anything unusual in the cylinder,. Almost like a chunk of metal was jammed at the intake port. I'll probably replace the cylinder and piston to be safe. Great video. I like that you weren't fumbling around like other videos I've watched. Very professional.

[@Mikeattempts]

Dang, that sounds like a lot of damage. Are you the original owner? If not, maybe the previous owner ran it without the air filter and used ether to get it started. The ether would have stripped the oil from the intake side and it would have just been metal on metal. I'm no pro, just a wild guess. I don't even know if ether could cause that kind of damage. I really appreciate the positive feedback, thanks for watching!

[@dalebertdurando1496]

@@Mikeattempts I was original owner. I'm guessing something got into the carb when I had the air filter off. All back together ready to start. Thanks to your video I, found how the ignition kill wires were routed. btw, I often tape the removed screws to the assemblies with masking tape. Then I know where they go. Regarding your dark piston, I might guess the gas was old, looks like varnish. tx Update, running fine now. Thx again

[@Mikeattempts]

@@dalebertdurando1496 Thanks for the update, I'm glad you got it fixed.

[@daszieher]

Thank you very much! I am going through the same on my 435 and was doubtful of the force necessary on the wrist pin. By the way, your parents might want to get you a new sign where it says "Mike succeeds" 😊

[@Mikeattempts]

Hahaha, I appreciate the sign suggestion. ;) I'm glad the video was helpful, thanks for the comments!

[@socas_nic]

i only now realised the bottom end is made of "plastic" i never expected to see that

[@Mikeattempts]

Yeah, I thought that was odd too, but I guess it's pretty common with chainsaws.

[@josegodoy9160]

Excelente tu video tengo una igual y no sabía ni cómo desarmarla para hacer mantenimiento 👍

[@Mikeattempts]

I'm glad the video was helpful, thanks for the comment! :)

[@Billster1955]

Awesome video. I may be doing this procedure on a cs620p saw I just got that only has 90 psi of compression.

[@Mikeattempts]

Cool, let me know how it goes, thanks for watching!

[@garyh1155]

Excellent video, thank you for publishing it.

[@Mikeattempts]

Thank you for watching it! :)

[@MrGlovesave33]

Great step by step clear build video. I may rebuild my dad's old 1989 huasqvarna 66 now. Appreciate the clarity with this model'svideo. Take care, from Atlantic Canada. You attempted and succeeded!

[@Mikeattempts]

Thanks for the comment, I appreciate it! Let me know how it goes with the Husky 66.

[@tihspidtherekciltilc5469]

This guy name Ethan Ol has caused people a lot of grief.

[@Mikeattempts]

Hahaha, yeah, ethanol sucks but I think the problem was that the previous owner might have used bar oil instead of 2-stroke oil in the fuel.

[@ainodekam3785]

In my opinion a better clean off piston and cylinder make a better job than after market kit . The time is going to see the difference.

[@Mikeattempts]

I agree, the OEM parts will always be better than aftermarket.

[@ront8496]

Thank you for a VERY NICE and well explained.

[@Mikeattempts]

I appreciate it, thanks for the comment!

[@mandrix6323]

After the failure to install the cylinder over the piston with my first kit (Husky 345) , I bought another one. I put the ring on the piston and was able to insert it into the cylinder. But I will be darned if once the piston is on the rod if I can get the piston to slide in. It hits the taper on the cylinder and just stops, best I can tell. Using a zip tie did nothing for me. Finally the high heat permatex had set up so I quit and cleaned it all up. I used to rebuild two stroke MC engines (and car engines) starting at age 15. So it's not like I'm a total klutz. Looking at the interior of the cylinder it "looks" identical to the original, and I can slide the original right on down. I am without understanding. Guess I just needed to vent.

[@Mikeattempts]

Did you try cussing, sometimes that helps? Hahaha! Dang, that's so strange and hasta be super frustrating. It sounds like you're far more experienced with engine rebuilds than me so I don't know what I could suggest that you probably haven't already thought of. That's not gonna stop me though! If you can get the piston in without the rod attached then the only thing I can assume is, when the rod is connected, maybe it's causing the piston to enter at a slight angle. Maybe you could try putting some grease around the ring, hold the cylinder with your thumbs on top and your fingers on the bottom. Then use your middle and ring fingers, from both hands, to put even pressure on the bottom of the piston skirt. Slowly and evenly squeeze while swearing at it for added intimidation. ;)

[@mandrix6323]

@@Mikeattempts lol. I think I've been swearing enough already! I was looking at the original cylinder and actually does not look bad. Certainly nothing that catches my fingernail. I believe I will sand out minor discolorations with some 400 grit sandpaper and try to reuse it, as I can fit it over the piston no problem. Thanks for your suggestions, Mike.

[@Mikeattempts]

@@mandrix6323 So, when you started this project, how long did you think it would take vs reality? I actually enjoy stories of other peoples' struggles with this sort of stuff. It makes me realize I'm not alone, it happens to all of us! :) Let me know how it turns out.

[@mandrix6323]

@@MikeattemptsMike I expected to be finished with actual complete reassembly in an hour or so. Of course disassembly and cleanup beforehand was an hour or two. I read all over KZbin where the cause of piston scoring/ring stuck in the land is the result of running unmixed gas. I have never ever done that. But last year hurricane Idalia tore my place up as a CAT 3 and took down many trees, and the little saw got a workout. I actually bought a Husky (445?) during that time as well. I'm thinking I'm going to change the oil/gas mix to 40/45 :1 and see if the saws still run well.

[@mandrix6323]

Success at last! went through 2 cylinder kits and then VIOLA! All is good and the saw runs great after some minor carb tuning.

[@johnjohnson-sm3yf]

Iv had 2 of these saws . 1st one wldnt run after 2 tanks of fuel and second lasted about 4 tanks . I dropped it at the shop and they said it needed piston , rings ,and cylinder. I have owned numerous husky saws over years and have never had a problem with them until these

[@Mikeattempts]

Hmm, that's strange. All I've ever owned are Husqvarna saws and I've never had any problems either. My guess is that the wrong kind of oil was used in the fuel on this one. With the new piston and cylinder, so far it's running good.

[@gc19901]

yeah, ours failed too whereas 365 still going strong after 20+ years

[@darenmilbury3621]

Very good video Mike , I will be watching more of your videos..

[@Mikeattempts]

Thanks, I appreciate it!

[@Granfatherclock]

I got the same Husqvarna chainsaw 440 2 stroke engine. Now I now how to fix it

[@Mikeattempts]

Let me know how it goes! :)

[@dkat1108]

Thanks great video: don't you have a torque setting for the crank case bolts to the cylinder ?

[@Mikeattempts]

The torque spec for the cylinder bolts, for 445/450 saws should be 13-15 Nm. However, I'm pretty sure they'd be different for each model/brand so be sure to look it up for your specific saw. Thanks for watching!

[@dtsrecordsdts1599]

When I got a chainsaw with low compression and black piston. The piston ring is maybe stuck. I try with grill cleaner down in the spark plug hole and lat it work for a while. That help some times.

[@Mikeattempts]

Yeah, that was the case with this one. I thought I saw vertical scratches through the muffler port, but they were just marks in the tacky black coating. I kept the old parts, just in case.

[@AaronHahnStudios]

Personally, I Always lay my cordless drills on their side on the bench. That way, they can't fall any further or get knocked off the bench and crack. But, each to their own. Thanks for the video. Oh, btw, Fault, Definitely wrong fuel/oil mix caused it, but quite possible used that fancy hi octane unleaded fuel. Just normal unleaded should be used.

[@Mikeattempts]

That's why I like the M18 battery powered tools, most will stand upright without easily tipping over. Yeah, I think the previous owner might have used bar oil in the fuel. :)

[@jaymessmall7745]

Exactly the kind of video you look for when you are having some trouble fixing a Saw,. Awesome content and you did an excellent job of explaining everything you did!!! In my opinion a great job. With love peace and saw Grease Jay small

[@Mikeattempts]

Thank you, I really appreciate the positive feedback! :)

[@bldrmtnman]

Good job and explanation on the repair and video. Very clear, thank you for your efforts.

[@Mikeattempts]

Thanks for the comment and thanks for watching!

[@riten2]

@@Mikeattempts actually was looking for the same type of video for a Husqvarna 575XP, if you should be thinking of doing one for that machine?

[@Mikeattempts]

@@riten2 I don't have access to a 575XP but, the good news is, the process is pretty much the same for any Husqvarna chainsaw.

[@philliphall5198]

Nice but I would have put piston tdc and remove spark plug then fill up cly with B12

[@Mikeattempts]

After disassembly, I could see there was little to no damage to the cylinder and piston. It seems like the wrong type of oil was used in the fuel which caused the piston ring to get stuck in the compressed position, resulting in a lack of compression. Had I known all of that prior to taking it apart then cleaning the parts, while still on the saw, could have potentially fixed the issue.

[@wesdemoss809]

Excellent . Very well made. Is very informative.

[@Mikeattempts]

Thanks for the comment, I appreciate it!

[@badeadrian]

Im taking the folding knife, I'm folding the knife, I'm putting the knife in my pocket, I'm going to do a bit of guessing now 🤠

[@Mikeattempts]

Hahaha, yep, most of what I do is guessing. :)

[@Nattidaddy]

@@MikeattemptsI guess it works 🤷🏻‍♂️😅

[@gilberthathaway1655]

Great work!!

[@Mikeattempts]

Thanks! :)

[@johnlong384]

Thank you Mike and yes Sir, you've done that before!

[@Mikeattempts]

Hahaha, nope, I swear! :) This was my first time replacing a chainsaw piston and/or cylinder. Thanks for watching!

[@johnlong384]

When I said "You've done it before" it wasn't about switching the pistons but chainsaws in general and yes, I can get the saw taken apart in not time but the fun starts when fiddling all back together correctly. Take care and try to stay out of trouble!

[@johnlong384]

10 -4!

[@emer3on]

nice video/tutorial/thx,perfect instruction for hobbies.

[@Mikeattempts]

Thanks for watching! :)

[@tgorski52]

this is a great vid holy smokes

[@Mikeattempts]

Thanks, I appreciate it! :)

[@belsayshootingground]

I think this engine was run once on neat petrol and only the original first run factory oil kept it alive for a little while.

[@Mikeattempts]

Because of the tacky coating on the piston and cylinder wall, I kinda think maybe the original owner tried to use bar oil instead of 2-stroke oil in the fuel. :)

[@belsayshootingground]

@@Mikeattempts oh that’s tragic! 😭

[@jaswinderdhillon7772]

Nice good help I have issue with my stihl Ms291

[@Mikeattempts]

Thanks for watching!

[@nakata3479]

Hi Mike, You should have done vacuum and pressure test before and after, replacing the bearing seal assy is also a must if you have vacuum leak. Regards.

[@Mikeattempts]

I did a compression test before and after. The only reason I didn't replace the seals was because I'm pretty sure the saw was new and died on the first tank of fuel.

[@George-bz1fi]

Good, thanks.

[@Mikeattempts]

Thanks for watching! :)

[@bob.fagg-bois657]

Thanks for this video, my 440 went to the repair shop and they said it would cost 550 euro`s to repair, i have sourced the parts needed for 238 euro`s and with this video i will try the repair myself.

[@Mikeattempts]

Dang, $550 sounds like an expensive repair, how much (in euros) does a 440 cost new? Let me know how it goes!

[@Dogonatree]

Probably tried cleaning it up before taking it back to the store. Did a good job cleaning it up

[@Mikeattempts]

Hahaha, I wouldn't be surprised. :) Thanks for watching!

[@Dogonatree]

@@Mikeattempts I’m working on a brand new echo that I accidentally ran bad gas through. Cut a couple trees is all it cut up. I was encouraged to blow it off and take it back to the store as a defect. Couldn’t bring myself to do it. I winced and ordered a cylinder and piston kit Your video was a huge help. Never had an engine fully disassembled. Didn’t know if the piston came out without destroying the clips. Now if I can remember how to put it back together once I get the parts! 👍

[@Mikeattempts]

@@Dogonatree You did the right thing, we need more honest people like you. :) Let me know how it goes!

[@Dogonatree]

Just wanted to follow up, got my parts in. Fixed it up. No left over parts. Can of gas from now on. It’s cheaper than a new saw or parts too

[@Mikeattempts]

@@Dogonatree Hahaha, no left over parts is a sign of a job well done! ;) Thanks for the update!

[@michaelschultz5968]

Perhaps somebody ran the motor with wrong type gasoline, normal gasoline without oil in. Nice video, thank you! 👍

[@Mikeattempts]

I think the previous owner might have used bar oil in the gasoline but who knows. :) Thanks for watching!

[@cartycartyamplifiersalesrepair]

Great video sir really appreciate this video keep up the good work 👍 👍 🙏

[@Mikeattempts]

Thanks, I appreciate the comment! :)

[@jeffyohe2447]

Soaking the piston in type F transmission fluid might free up that piston ring

[@Mikeattempts]

I kept the original piston and cylinder, but I haven't soaked 'em in anything yet, thanks for the advice!

[@doncookbc]

Cheap two cycle oil killed it !! Only use sthil

[@Mikeattempts]

Yeah, something definitely wasn't right. I think there's a chance the previous owner used bar oil in the fuel.

[@larrywarner9314]

Touch oil , improperly mixed fuel and two-cycle oil looks super rich , 50:1 is the mixture not 28:1

[@Mikeattempts]

Yeah, I thought maybe they tried using bar oil instead of 2-stroke oil.

[@lupo4084]

Fantastica non la cambierei con nessuna altra!!

[@Mikeattempts]

Thanks for watching!

[@TheConcho75]

So much inf. Thank you so much

[@Mikeattempts]

That you for watching!

[@roy-rw9dg]

Great Video. Thanks.

[@Mikeattempts]

Thanks for watching!

[@dejan9713]

Hi Mike. Thanks for sharing your experience through this video. Please let me know how the cylinder kit is so far? Do you think is reliable? I will really appreciate if you can share some information. Thanks

[@Mikeattempts]

I was impressed with the quality of the aftermarket cylinder and piston. The OEM parts do seem a little better, but they also cost more. The saw runs and cuts great so I would buy aftermarket parts again, if they were substantially cheaper.

[@paulnielsen8037]

Using incorrect type of oil in mix , any old 2 stroke oil is not good enough these days must a good quality hi speed , air cooled 2 stroke oil, if a 2 stroke oil for a outboard engine was used engine would not last long , as chainsaw air cooled engine temp would cook oil used (outboard 2 stroke ) and could also end up being like a jelly like substance inside engine

[@Mikeattempts]

That sounds like the most likely culprit. It seems like the oil was cooked and it left a slightly tacky film on the piston and cylinder. Thanks for the comment!

[@pdevonport7266]

There's no difference between marine 2-stroke or air-cooled chainsaw 2S oil. Marine 2-stroke oil has a detergent that breaks down in water to stop clogging the exhaust manifold. Water cooled engines can easily run at 100 to 1 + ratio and that's the only difference. This engine was obviously run-on chain bar oil which would explain the tarring.

[@fredpope8293]

I use 2 stroke marine oil in my Shindaiwa and Stihl for past several years....the saws literally scream like a raped ape. My experience has only been very positive.

[@notmyname3883]

@@pdevonport7266 I don't know about that. THis isn't the first time we've been told not to use outboard engine oil in chainsaw fuel. I used some and it killed my Husqvarna 137, a great little saw for years. I'd say which brand but I've forgotten at the moment. IT was all the corner gas station had in the moment when I needed 2-stroke oil. I will never make that mistake again. Why chance it when stihl and husqvarna make good reliable natural and synthetic oils for only a few pennies more than the cheap outboard stuff?

[@The_Blessed_Cowboy]

I still cooked my 2 year old 365 xtorq with 94 octane 10% ethanol fuel with a 50:1 mixture. It's law in Canada to have ethanol in the gasoline. Now I know!!

[@JakePlisskin12]

Shoot i would have cleaned the original and kept it on there. Although i guess you could see how well the aftermarket kit works. Then you have a oem replacement already.

[@Mikeattempts]

Yep, I kept the original parts just in case. :)

[@alihasan-zg7oq]

Great Vid, Thanks.

[@Mikeattempts]

Thanks for watching! :)

[@TheDiscoPaul]

Great video!!! well explained

[@Mikeattempts]

Thanks, I appreciate it!

[@vadenton8735]

Thanks

[@Mikeattempts]

Thank you for watching!

[@wilkey40]

If you are going to do a teardown you might as well remove everything and inspect the crank seals to make sure there is no air leaking

[@Mikeattempts]

I agree. This saw looked almost brand new, so I suspect that it gave out on its first tank of fuel due to the wrong type of oil being used. All of the seals looked and felt new.

[@guillaumepilon8167]

stuck in cooked oil either they put to the wrong type of oil or to rich mixed gaz , or the run it at low rpm and finally the high circuit of the carb might be to rich

[@Mikeattempts]

Yeah, I think they might have used bar oil in the fuel.

[@marcuscicero9587]

good job

[@Mikeattempts]

Thanks for watching!

[@bobdixon4998]

Great narrative. I watched another take apart a 435 and put it together with no narrative and sorry music.

[@Mikeattempts]

Thanks, I appreciate it! :)

[@bachduong534]

1 like... 19:56 to 20:10: very noticable, me too. This type of carb is inconvenient to adjust to archieve the optimized status of the engine. Do you know reasons why Husqvarna have chosen this type of carn while the others are convenient and effective in reality?

[@Mikeattempts]

I'm no pro, I'm not sure why Husqvarna has chosen this type of carb.

[@billcasper]

Nice video!

[@Mikeattempts]

Thanks for watching!

[@enjoythesho1992]

I believe I would have ordered a new base gasket

[@Mikeattempts]

Yep, on a saw with more time on it, I totally agree. This saw had probably less than an hour of runtime on it and the gaskets looked and felt new.

[@normanbfifteen3468]

You know what you are doing... very impressive work. Where did you find the free broken saws experiment with?

[@Mikeattempts]

I appreciate the comment, this was my first time replacing a piston and cylinder. The county I live in has an email list and, every once in a while, I post a message asking for any broken tools people might have. I've been able to save a lot of tools from the landfill and I've learned a TON so far. Thanks for watching!

[@samcanario3683]

Does anyone knows what is the ideal pressure on a husqvarna 440 . I’ve checked mine and the gauge reads 85psi

[@Mikeattempts]

I'm no pro but 85 PSI sounds low, it should be at least 110. Does your saw start, run, and cut ok? If so, I wouldn't worry about it, your compression tester might not be accurate.

[@samcanario3683]

@@Mikeattempts I’ve just put new carburetor in it , it still doesn’t start. I’ve put little bit of mixed fuel on top of the piston and it fired for about 3 seconds and shuts off? I’m considering on replacing the cylinder and piston. I’ve checked the compression on my Jonsered and it’s at 125psi

[@Mikeattempts]

@@samcanario3683 Hmmm, did it have the same problem before you replaced the carb? It could just be low compression preventing it from starting but I can't say for sure.

[@christophertucker8031]

Using old sump oil instead of two stroke oil. I think this is why your compression ring wore out or distorted by over heating then slow cool. Removing the spring effect.

[@Mikeattempts]

Yep, I think that's what the previous owner must have done. Thanks for watching!

[@ChrisGilliamOffGrid]

Man that saw was almost new, I wonder what caused that. 🤔

[@Mikeattempts]

I'm no pro but I think the original owner might have used bar oil instead of 2-stroke oil in the feul.

[@robertotirabasso2812]

Strange ...seems like new ...but no compression ??? How many hours of work ? I have ..an husky 351 ...from a long time ...hours and hours of work ...and compression is enough ...

[@Mikeattempts]

My guess is that the previous owner used motor oil or bar oil instead of 2-stoke oil in the fuel. It probably stopped working during the first tank. The cylinder and piston didn't even end up being scored, they just had a dark tacky coating on them. That same coating made the piston ring get stuck fully compressed which is why the compression was low.

[@robertotirabasso2812]

@@Mikeattempts yes i think the same ...but a lot of bar oil ...in the tank of fuel of motorsaw . You can save the cilinder ? If is only the ring stuck on piston..

[@Mikeattempts]

@@robertotirabasso2812 Yep, I saved all of the original parts, just in case. :)

[@sarantisbarekos6287]

Perfect

[@Mikeattempts]

Thanks for watching!

[@ti10to]

Thanks, very helpful video I just have a question how much can I charge to change just piston n rings on one of these chopsaws? Im new on side jobs and I want to have an idea of an estimate charge like i mentioned before just for piston n rings replacement

[@Mikeattempts]

I'm not sure, I'm not a pro, this was the first time I ever did a piston and cylinder. I guess I would call a few local small engine repair shops and ask 'em how much it would cost to replace the piston and rings. Then you can charge a bit less and I'm sure the customer would be happy. Once you've done a few jobs then you could figure out a fair hourly rate and then also charge for parts.

[@georgegeorgel7254]

How much u tighten the cylinder screws?

[@Mikeattempts]

I think it's 8.5 foot pounds for the 440 but be sure to check for your specific model.

[@michaelgarrow3239]

I’m guessing way too much oil in the gas.

[@Mikeattempts]

I never considered it could have been the wrong amount of oil but maybe you're right. I just figured they used the wrong type of oil. Thanks for the comment!

[@anrivera1975]

Hi, I have a husqvarna 128cd, that recently changed the piston, carb, fuel lines and spark. It won't start. Spark is fine (sparking), fuel lines are ok, and carb is new. What could it be? Compression? Something I noticed is that the cylinder / piston ring was too loose. Could this be the problem? Unfortunately, I don't have the compression gauge for testing.

[@Mikeattempts]

I'm no pro but, unless you have the fuel lines connected to the wrong ports on the carb, it sounds like you have everything you need except compression. You only replaced the piston, not the cylinder? I guess there's a chance that the piston is the wrong diameter. Were you able to compare the old piston with the new one before installation?

[@anrivera1975]

@@Mikeattempts both pistons look the same, I changed the piston and cylinder.

[@Mikeattempts]

@@anrivera1975 Hmm, I assume you bought the piston and cylinder in a kit so they should match. Did you double-check the fuel line connections to the carb? Did you adjust the high and low jets on the carburetor? Turn them in all the way and then out 1.5 turns.

[@anrivera1975]

@Mikeattempts yes I did all that stuff. My guess is a compression issue. Fuel lines are ok, I thought it was that and switched them to try. No luck.

[@Mikeattempts]

@@anrivera1975 Alright, let me know what you find, I'm curious.

[@michaelshakib7777]

What lubricant did you use?

[@Mikeattempts]

I just used a light sewing machine oil for reassembly, but I think any light oil would be fine.

[@sophielaurie6510]

Trying to disassemble an Echo cs352es but the cylinder won’t lift off - any advice? Piston is free and all bolts removed but seal won’t break.

[@Mikeattempts]

Did you try swearing more, that sometimes helps? ;) So, you got all 4 cylinder bolts removed from the bottom? Is it possible that the piston is seized in the cylinder? If so, you could stick a wooden dowel down the spark plug hole and try to tap the piston down while pulling up on the cylinder. If it's not the piston, you could just try tapping the top of the cylinder forwards and backwards, with a rubber mallet, in hopes of breaking the seal. I'm just throwing out ideas, I'm not a pro. Let me know how it goes!

[@sophielaurie6510]

@@Mikeattempts piston moves up and down so not seized. Tried hitting it with a rubber mallet - there is still compression in the cylinder if you turn the flywheel and put your thumb over the openings so seems like the seal is not breaking. As well as the bolts (which I have completely removed) there seem to be four little plugs coming up through - which might be from the gasket maybe. Don’t want to slip anything under the cylinder to break the seal I case I scratch the base as I only have a replacement piston not the cylinder.

[@Mikeattempts]

@@sophielaurie6510 Hmm, that's odd. You could try turning the saw upside down and use a piece of wood pressed against the bottom/side of the cylinder and tap on the wood with the mallet. Just be careful not to break any fins. I'm curious why it's stuck so, if you're able to get it off, let me know what was holding it.

[@sophielaurie6510]

@@Mikeattempts - thanks, will give it another go. Your video is excellent and gave me confidence to get this far so very frustrating!

[@Mikeattempts]

@@sophielaurie6510 You'll get it! Have you tried securing the body of the saw while twisting the cylinder? I just wonder if there's something else holding it? I would think a stuck seal wouldn't be enough to withstand all of the things you've tried so far.

[@JohnDoeEagle1]

What happened to this saw? Somebody was running 87 octane pump gas with ethanol mixed with cheap junk 2-stroke oil in it. They may or might not have had the correct 50:1 mix but that doesn't really matter when you are using low grade pump gas and cheap oil. Stihl MotoMix or Echo Red Armor is fully synthetic while the Husqvarna is semi-synthetic. NONE of them would have left the piston and cylinder black with soot and carbon like that. In short someone ruined this chainsaw prematurely as you can see the saw is in great condition and hardily used otherwise.

[@Mikeattempts]

It's odd because the black film left on the piston and cylinder was slightly tacky. Some viewers said the same as you suggested while others said maybe the previous owner used bar oil instead of 2-stroke oil. Either way, I would be surprised if they made it through one tank of fuel, the saw looked new. Thanks for the comments!

[@ΕυαγγελοςΜαζαρης]

​@@Mikeattempts❤

[@vincezito3547]

What gas you use . Rec gas or a higher octane? I have that exact saw trying to make it last a while before i have to do this.

[@JohnDoeEagle1]

@@vincezito3547 Unless you are using your chainsaw a lot I wouldn't run any pump gas in it at all. Only run the high octane premium premix fuel that is 93/95 octane and contains no ethanol. It also already has the synthetic oil mixed in with the correct 50:1 ratio. IF and only (IF) you run pump gas make sure it is below 10% ethanol or better yet no ethanol at all and at least 91+ premium octane. Cheap junk 2-stroke oil and regular pump gas will destroy these small gas engines in no time at all.

[@daszieher]

​@@Mikeattemptsperhaps they used castor oil like in methanol model engines? That leaves a sticky layer. In any case, it was the wrong oil. I am in the process of taking my 435 that I got for free apart. I was less lucky, it had been run on auto fuel with no oil. Heavy scoring😢