Chainsaw Repair

Husqvarna - Stihl - Poulan - Jonsered - Dolmar chainsaws and more => Husqvarna => Topic started by: looking4firewood on February 13, 2014, 05:40:43 pm

Title: 371xp not running
Post by: looking4firewood on February 13, 2014, 05:40:43 pm
I let someone borrow my 371xp the other day, sounds like he seized the engine, as I can't pull the starter cord.    He said that it just started to smoke and stopped working.  Any thoughts on what I should do next?  I'm in the Atlanta area, the shop that I wanted to take it to closed, and the other guy that I used to rebuild a small stihl started a family and was told that he needed to spend more time with the family than in his shop.  Anybody know of a good repair shop that won't try to put the screws to me?  It has been a great saw, bought it new in 1998.
Title: Re: 371xp not running
Post by: 660magnum on February 13, 2014, 05:46:15 pm
Pull the muffler and see if it has been straight gassed? If so, the piston will be all galled up and streaked
Title: Re: 371xp not running
Post by: KilliansRedLeo on February 13, 2014, 05:50:16 pm
I do not know any shops in your area. First thing do what 660Magnum suggested, if you have the propper tools to remove the muffler. Would you like to do the work yourself or have someone do the work for you?
Title: Re: 371xp not running
Post by: 660magnum on February 13, 2014, 05:56:35 pm
There's a reputable guy up above Crossville, TN that could fix it for you?
Title: Re: 371xp not running
Post by: looking4firewood on February 13, 2014, 06:23:08 pm
Thanks, I'll take a look with the muffler off.  I did notice something strange, when I took the spark plug wire off, the terminal that is screwed onto the top of the spark plug was completely stripped and was still in the spark plug wire connector.  I was able to get it out.  The spark plug looked pretty cruddy on the working end.  I would not be able to do this repair myself, as I don't have the tools or the mechanical skills to do it.
Title: Re: 371xp not running
Post by: 660magnum on February 13, 2014, 06:27:36 pm
Probably got hot and ruined the spark plug too?
Title: Re: 371xp not running
Post by: countryhog on February 13, 2014, 06:35:17 pm
why are you loaning a chainsaw? is the person you loaned it too gonna make good on HIS screwup? i.e.-is he gonna pay for the repair? quit loaning your saw out unless its to someone who will pay for damage or who has something you want. if you insist on loaning your tools get a cheapo that you don't care gets ruint. just sayin
Title: Re: 371xp not running
Post by: KilliansRedLeo on February 13, 2014, 08:39:48 pm
I charge $50 to do a top end job plus parts and shipping both ways.
Title: Re: 371xp not running
Post by: 3000 FPS on February 13, 2014, 10:55:02 pm
Sorry to hear about your 371, those are nice saws and expensive to replace.    KRL does this stuff for a living.
Title: Re: 371xp not running
Post by: KilliansRedLeo on February 13, 2014, 11:22:29 pm
I am retired just like 3000FPS, I repair saws because I like to do it, and I do not agree with some people charging outrageous fees for $50 worth of work! Make your own choice. Please consider the recommendation that 660Magnum gave you, he would not steer you wrong.
Title: Re: 371xp not running
Post by: KilliansRedLeo on February 14, 2014, 07:13:28 am
Looking4firewood, it is pretty tough to estimate what your saw would need to get it running again without seeing it. Sometimes damaged cylinders and pistons can be repaired sometimes not. If as you say, it will not turn over that is not a good sign. First task would be to remove the muffler and have a look at the piston as 660Magnum suggested. It is not a big deal to do this, you must remove four screws and loosen two others. You will need a 3/8 ratchet and two long reach Allen sockets (4mm & 5mm). I will post a couple pictures for you later in the day. Since you already have the spark plug out it might not be a bad idea to put a little penetrating oil in the cylinder to see if it will free up the piston. Did the person you loaned the saw to say how long he had run the saw before it stopped? Better yet, did he refill the tank just before it started smoking and stopped?
Title: Re: 371xp not running
Post by: KilliansRedLeo on February 14, 2014, 07:31:32 am
In an attempt to put what Countryhog was saying into perspective; the OEM cylinder and piston for a 371XP (Husqvarna part 503 93 93-72) retails for $300.92 for the bare parts. Aftermarket parts like Italian made Meteor $150.00 and some of the better Chinese ones $125.00. There would also be other minor parts needed, gaskets, spark plug etc.
Title: Re: 371xp not running
Post by: KilliansRedLeo on February 14, 2014, 08:44:12 am
Perhaps there is another way to figure out what may have happened before pulling the muffler. If as 660 and I both suspect the saw was raw gassed. If there is still fuel in the tank you could pour a small amount in a kitty food can and let it evaporate. If there is no mix oil left in the can after the gas evaporates off then chances are that the saw was fed improper fuel. If there is oil left in the can then we pull the muffler to have a look, because it is possible that the wrong amount of oil was added to the gas. If after pulling the muffler the piston does not look as 660 described then we need to look further.

Before attempting any sort of repair you must first figure out just what caused the saw to fail. It is after all, a 1998 16 year old saw. There are lots of other things that can cause the sort of situation you are dealing with; failed bearing, seals, air leaks in the intake tract etc. The repair must not only cure the resultant damage, it must also address the cause. Otherwise it will happen again.
Title: Re: 371xp not running
Post by: looking4firewood on February 14, 2014, 09:08:31 am
KRL, I'll check the gas, but I don't think that is the problem (unfortunately).  I treat all of my gas, whether it's for the mower or the saws/blower with StaBil, and for the saws and blower I use Stihl oil oil for the mix.  I mix up a fresh gallon about every 6-8 weeks.  Thanks for the suggestions for finding the root cause of this.
Title: Re: 371xp not running
Post by: KilliansRedLeo on February 14, 2014, 09:20:15 am

OK Here is the picture I promised on how to remove the muffler. So, given our email discussion you should probably skip the gas test and pull the muffler. I forgot to caption the two 5mm bolts to be removed also.
Title: Re: 371xp not running
Post by: KilliansRedLeo on February 14, 2014, 10:05:56 am
Looking4Firewood, have a look at the first post in this thread and download the second file, it will help you understand what you are seeing when you remove the muffler to have a look at the piston.

http://chainsawrepair.createaforum.com/ported-saws/piston-failure-analysis/

If you can it wouldn't hurt to post a picture of what you see through the exhaust port that way we can all have a look.
Title: Re: 371xp not running
Post by: eriksat1 on February 14, 2014, 10:49:56 am
Don't jump to conclusions. Maybe the guy put bar oil in the gas tank? Unless it is seized up I just reread you can't pull.

Friends Don't Let Friends Borrow Power Tools!
If you want to stay friends.
Title: Re: 371xp not running
Post by: KilliansRedLeo on February 14, 2014, 11:37:21 am
LOL, I have actually seen that happen sounds stupid but obviously you have also seen it! I had a private conversation with him via e-mail, I think that something else is going on. Given his description of the symptoms on his last use and just prior to the saw quiting it sounds more like an air leak that caused a too lean condition or a bearing let go in the bottom end. See his comments below. Tell me what you think.

Quote
Anyway, the last couple of times that I used the saw for an extended period of time, I noticed a little smoke coming off the engine, figured it was bar oil on the engine. As for the gas, I always use Stihl oil in the gas mix. Last week I had a tree service cut down some pine trees close to the house (Ice storm approaching), they do the tree work, I do the clean up (for a better price). The last tree they dropped landed on their rope, so they needed to cut the tree off it. He borrowed the saw that I was using for the clean up, told me that I should change the chain. I left for a couple of minutes to get a sharp chain, came back and he told me that my saw wasn't working, and now my story is published here.

Given the above the saw is stuck solid so it could be seized up from an extreme lean out condition or a catastrophic bearing failure in the bottom end; where parts of the bearing are interfering with the crank. If the saw came to a sudden violent stop the crank halves could also be twisted at the pin.
Title: Re: 371xp not running
Post by: eriksat1 on February 14, 2014, 05:55:18 pm
Ya if spark plug is out of it and take start recoil off, and if you can't turn the flywheel by hand at all you got problems. may now just have a parts saw.
Title: Re: 371xp not running
Post by: KilliansRedLeo on February 14, 2014, 06:11:20 pm
Ya if spark plug is out of it and take start recoil off, and if you can't turn the flywheel by hand at all you got problems. may now just have a parts saw.

That is exactly what I'm afraid of. It is possible to rebuild the saw but you can't know for sure if it is worth rebuilding until the saw is taken apart. Especially if there is damage to the crank or the cases. If that is the case then the cost to repair/rebuild in parts alone, even used parts would rapidly approach the value of the saw. Might actually be better off looking for a parts saw with a good bottom end and start there.

KRL
Title: Re: 371xp not running
Post by: SawTroll on February 14, 2014, 07:43:15 pm
Be aware that not all 371xp saws were the same, what is the serial number of this one?
Title: Re: 371xp not running
Post by: KilliansRedLeo on February 14, 2014, 07:59:07 pm
Be aware that not all 371xp saws were the same, what is the serial number of this one?

Do not know yet Nikko, all we do know is that he purchased the new saw in 1998. I will ask that he post a picture of the serial number tag. Given the time it was purchased I don't think this one has the early style intake and cylinder however until we see the tag we will not know.
Title: Re: 371xp not running
Post by: 660magnum on February 14, 2014, 08:41:38 pm
Some early 371's have the 272 style starter pulley and pawl set up

The top fin has a notch on the right front where the hole is for the rubber grommet on a 372.

They are single ring on the piston.

And the bar adjuster is on the right crankcase half rather than the chain cover.

The clutch bell has little oval vent holes in the front.
Title: Re: 371xp not running
Post by: looking4firewood on February 14, 2014, 10:04:28 pm
The tag says:
Husqvarna 371XP
1998
8180991
Husqvarna AB
Husqvarna Sweden

Took the muffler off and the piston looks like a straight file, and as you would expect, with the scores running up and down the piston. The bar adjuster is on the is on the crankcase, not on the chain cover.  KRL, I'll send you a couple of pics that are too high res for this forum.
Title: Re: 371xp not running
Post by: looking4firewood on February 14, 2014, 10:56:50 pm
LOL, I need to get a saw running, in the last couple of days we have had 2" sleet, 1/3" freezing rain, 1" snow, and now we just had an earthquake.  Whatever is next might need a chainsaw...  Tornadoes and hurricanes, please stay away until I'm up and running again...
Title: Re: 371xp not running
Post by: KilliansRedLeo on February 14, 2014, 11:07:58 pm
KMA, two inches of snow and ice we here in upstate NY are dealing with 8 to 10 inches on the ground and below 0 temperatures! This year for the first time in 20 or more years the Great Lakes are going to freeze over 100%! So much for Al Gore and his global warming BS!

OK, so do you want me to FedEx you a Garbage Plate?

Best Regards
KRL

Title: Re: 371xp not running
Post by: KilliansRedLeo on February 15, 2014, 10:50:25 am
Tom, sent me a couple of hi-res pics that were too large to post, I will play around with them to get under 400K and post so everyone can have a look.

IMHO, it looks to be a very large air leak, only have pics through the EP and the saw appears to be locked up tight. Probably the seals or perhaps the carb boot. Problem will be getting the jug off without damaging the cylinder further! The piston is shot from what I could see in the pictures!

Tom did you put some penetrating oil down the plug hole? You might want to put a couple squirts into the EP also. Once the oil has done its job you might want to remove the recoil and see if with a wrench on the flywheel nut you can gently rock it back and forth to see if you can free it up some, don't go nuts just gently.

I have had them come in here locked up so tight that the only way to loosen them up was a 12mm hickory dowel and a dead blow mallet through the plug hole! ::) How is that for red necking it!
Title: Re: 371xp not running
Post by: 3000 FPS on February 15, 2014, 11:40:46 am
And if that does not work get a bigger hammer.    The worse saw I have seen was a husky concrete saw that was frozen up.    I was able to get the jug off by doing like you suggested using a wrench on the flywheel.
Title: Re: 371xp not running
Post by: looking4firewood on February 15, 2014, 11:51:52 am
Tim, I went out this morning to get some penetrating oil, but had to deal with a tire with a piece of debris in it.  Since the tire is only a month old, I brought it back to where I bought it for them to repair it.
I did get some penetrating oil, and since the saw was already upright for the pictures last night, I sprayed the oil into the exhaust opening.  There was about an eighth of an inch of oil sitting there when I left it.  Returned about 10 minutes later and it was all gone.  Tried turning it over, still locked up.  Flipped the saw to its normal position and filled the spark plug opening, now waiting.
Title: Re: 371xp not running
Post by: looking4firewood on February 15, 2014, 12:16:05 pm
OK, Tim must be pretty good at what he does.  Took a bit of brute after taking the starter assembly off, but the piston is now moving freely.  Might be time to pack it up and ship it to Rochester to have some work done to it.
Title: Re: 371xp not running
Post by: KilliansRedLeo on February 15, 2014, 12:21:39 pm
Tom, check your gmail.

Given the age of the saw and that you are meticulos about your pre-mix. The main two possibilities for what happened are air leaks; either at the crankshaft seals or perhaps a pin hole in the carb boot. The cylinder may be salvageable but I am afraid the piston is shot given that it is stuck tight.

If you shake the saw is there any noise (like loose parts) ratteling around in the crank case. That could indicate a broken piston ring or part of the piston and perhaps a main bearing the came apart and jammed the crank.

Given enough time and $ any saw can be rebuilt, it is just a matter of what is wrong and what can be saved from the original saw. So given the saws' age I would suggest:
Split the cases install new bearings and seals
Replace the cylinder and piston with Meteor or Hyway aftermarket parts.
Probably a new carb boot
Title: Re: 371xp not running
Post by: KilliansRedLeo on February 15, 2014, 12:23:26 pm
Tom, get some new pictures of the piston now that you can move it. Do the shake test and see if you hear parts ratteling around in the case.

If you look closely 3000FPS suggested the same thing, all us retired old farts use the same tried and true techniques! No mystery there!
Title: Re: 371xp not running
Post by: KilliansRedLeo on February 15, 2014, 12:34:46 pm
OK, here are the pictures through the EP from yesterday before Tom broke the piston loose.

What do the rest of you boys think?
Title: Re: 371xp not running
Post by: 3000 FPS on February 15, 2014, 12:37:58 pm
Tom, get some new pictures of the piston now that you can move it. Do the shake test and see if you hear parts ratteling around in the case.

If you look closely 3000FPS suggested the same thing, all us retired old farts use the same tried and true techniques! No mystery there!
This is true.
Title: Re: 371xp not running
Post by: 660magnum on February 15, 2014, 12:39:06 pm
It has been run lean!  Cold weather probably didn't help the situation any as they run leaner in the winter unless readjusted richer.
Title: Re: 371xp not running
Post by: KilliansRedLeo on February 15, 2014, 12:41:17 pm
It has been run lean!  Cold weather probably didn't help the situation any as they run leaner in the winter unless readjusted richer.

You betchum Red Rider!
Title: Re: 371xp not running
Post by: 3000 FPS on February 15, 2014, 12:43:02 pm
OK, here are the pictures through the EP from yesterday before Tom broke the piston loose.

What do the rest of you boys think?

Looks like lean scoring to me.    How about the intake side any scoring on it?   
Title: Re: 371xp not running
Post by: KilliansRedLeo on February 15, 2014, 01:20:36 pm
Not sure if Tom has gotten any pics of the intake.
Title: Re: 371xp not running
Post by: KilliansRedLeo on February 15, 2014, 02:15:22 pm
Here are pics of the the rings after Tom got the saw freed up, not pretty, new piston time! Perhaps, just perhaps the cylinder could be saved!
Title: Re: 371xp not running
Post by: looking4firewood on February 15, 2014, 02:21:12 pm
I shook the saw, flipping it over trying to hear for loose objects bouncing around where they shouldn't be.  The only thing I heard was chain sprocket.
Title: Re: 371xp not running
Post by: 660magnum on February 15, 2014, 02:25:02 pm
Looks like it was run until it wouldn't?

I have a couple under the bench like that. Don't know the story on them except they have galled pistons. I bought them that way.

Watch my son's FIL run a Homelite lean and then with the choke partially on until he couldn't get it to run any more. Don't know why people are that way?
Title: Re: 371xp not running
Post by: KilliansRedLeo on February 15, 2014, 03:38:12 pm
Ya think? Well it lasted 16 years, I guess that says something! It also looks to be in pretty good overall shape. I think the saw is from the Atlanta GA area so am not sure about the cold weather thing down there but if it was tuned in 90 degree weather and run in 40 degree your are absolutely correct. I am still leaning toward a badly leaking seal on the flywheel side because of something Tom said in a PM.

Quote
I tried to crank it, nothing, took the starter assembly off and tried to pull the rope, it moved a little, but was jammed.  The heat from the saw melted the end of the nylon starter rope to such a degree that it formed around what it spins on and was restricting a smooth pull. 

What do you think Jim/Roger?
Title: Re: 371xp not running
Post by: 660magnum on February 15, 2014, 04:01:57 pm
That sounds more like a 272 style starter pulley?
Title: Re: 371xp not running
Post by: KilliansRedLeo on February 15, 2014, 04:22:16 pm
I checked out the pulleys used on all versions of the 371 non-EPA, EPA, 371K and 371K EPA there are a total of three different starter pulleys used on all variations of the 371. I do know that you can use a 272 style starter on the 37x series if you change the starter pawls to the flat 272 style and use the pulley from a 272 or even the blue pulley from a 272K and it will work.

Starter pulleys used on 371 saws:

503 78 71-01 1996/03
503 85 96-01 1996/09
503 85 96-01 1997/12
503 85 96-01 1999/05
503 85 96-01 1997/12 EPA
503 85 96-01 1999/05 EPA
506 26 95-01 2003/08 371K
506 26 95-01 2003/08 371K EPA ???
Title: Re: 371xp not running
Post by: 660magnum on February 15, 2014, 04:54:35 pm
When you are talking about the pulley's with the stainless tube up the center, it gets to be a real mess for replacement as the length of the stainless tube varies with each model saw they are made for.

I never had any trouble with the one on my 371 but I did change it over to 372 style pawls and all white plastic pulley.
Title: Re: 371xp not running
Post by: 3000 FPS on February 15, 2014, 05:52:26 pm
Ya think? Well it lasted 16 years, I guess that says something! It also looks to be in pretty good overall shape. I think the saw is from the Atlanta GA area so am not sure about the cold weather thing down there but if it was tuned in 90 degree weather and run in 40 degree your are absolutely correct. I am still leaning toward a badly leaking seal on the flywheel side because of something Tom said in a PM.

Quote
I tried to crank it, nothing, took the starter assembly off and tried to pull the rope, it moved a little, but was jammed.  The heat from the saw melted the end of the nylon starter rope to such a degree that it formed around what it spins on and was restricting a smooth pull. 



What do you think Jim/Roger?

Was the pulley warped or discolored?     Sounds odd to me.
Title: Re: 371xp not running
Post by: KilliansRedLeo on February 15, 2014, 05:58:05 pm
Don't know Roger, he is supposed to call later in the day so I will ask and let you know, it sounds odd to me also because the flywheel would not allow heat to get directly to the starter.
Title: Re: 371xp not running
Post by: KilliansRedLeo on February 21, 2014, 09:35:38 am
Saw arrived for repair yesterday. I will post some pictures of the C/P later in the day. Rings welded in the grooves, very large aluminum deposits below and above the EP on the right side. There are a couple of fins broken off the cylinder right where she stuck. So, I am wondering what if anything that this had to do with it.

Clutch side seal is shot, before disassembly I tried to put pressure in the saw and could not get it to hold any pressure at all, not even a pound.

Something fell on the saw at one time or it was dropped as the clutch side of the case has a crack at the right rear of the carb box and the case ear where the travel limiter would be located is completely gone.

I will post pictures of that also. I am wondering if hearing the case to remove and replace the bearings will cause further damage to the case.
Title: Re: 371xp not running
Post by: 3000 FPS on February 21, 2014, 10:15:35 am
Saw arrived for repair yesterday. I will post some pictures of the C/P later in the day. Rings welded in the grooves, very large aluminum deposits below and above the EP on the right side. There are a couple of fins broken off the cylinder right where she stuck. So, I am wondering what if anything that this had to do with it.

Clutch side seal is shot, before disassembly I tried to put pressure in the saw and could not get it to hold and pressure at all, not even a pound.

Something fell on the saw at one time or it was dropped as the clutch side of the case has a crack at the right rear of the carb box and the case ear where the travel limiter would be located is completely gone.

I will post pictures of that also. I am wondering if hearing the case to remove and replace the bearings will cause further damage to the case.

This poor saw sounds like a mess.   Having two fins missing I am sure will contribute to the saw getting hot and add a air leak to that and you have a recipe for disaster.
Title: Re: 371xp not running
Post by: KilliansRedLeo on February 21, 2014, 10:29:47 am
The bottom end bearings are not bad but after 16 years of use they should be replaced, it is going to get a new AM C/P so the missing fins problem will get taken care of. The pictures were taken with my new SnakeScope clone from Harbor Freight so may not be the best as the thing is difficult to use but not a bad deal reg $249 on sale for $199 and a 25% off coupon gets it for $150. .3 inch head (goes right down the plug hole) and also will go through the EP or IP and out the other side with adjustable light, pan and zoom. I have not tried but it may even fit beneath the piston at TDC and allow you to look at the crank. If the pictures don't come out well I will take some more.
Title: Re: 371xp not running
Post by: KilliansRedLeo on February 21, 2014, 11:03:39 am
Damage to the 371 C/P. May be able to clean up the cylinder but with the broken fins I am not sure it is worth the time and effort. I will have pictures of the damage to the case in a bit.
Title: Re: 371xp not running
Post by: 3000 FPS on February 21, 2014, 11:10:56 am
Time for a new cylinder and piston.  That thing must have been really cooking.
Title: Re: 371xp not running
Post by: KilliansRedLeo on February 21, 2014, 11:13:56 am
I don't know how one would test it but the compression release did not seem to be working correctly either. e.g. no click when pushed or pulled, just slid back and forth.
Title: Re: 371xp not running
Post by: 3000 FPS on February 21, 2014, 11:21:18 am
I don't know how one would test it but the compression release did not seem to be working correctly either. e.g. no click when pushed or pulled, just slid back and forth.

I do not trust compression releases and avoid using them.   Even on my bigger saws I avoid them.
Title: Re: 371xp not running
Post by: KilliansRedLeo on February 21, 2014, 01:38:17 pm
Here is the damage to the case. the first attachment is the crack at the rear, the second is the rest of the case where the ear is broken off. there is an undamaged case in the picture to illustrate where the 371 case is broken. I don't think either of the two damaged areas are show stoppers. The broken ear is obviously quite old IMO because of the oxidation level of the broken surfaces. Probably makes the saw a handfull when in use but the owner appears to be OK with it since he did not mention it in his summary of what was wrong with the saw or in a conversation we had on the phone.
Title: Re: 371xp not running
Post by: 3000 FPS on February 21, 2014, 02:30:55 pm
Tim was that part of the Antivibe that went there where it is broken off?    To bad he did not have the broken piece that could of been welded back on.   
Title: Re: 371xp not running
Post by: KilliansRedLeo on February 21, 2014, 02:44:12 pm
Tim was that part of the Antivibe that went there where it is broken off?    To bad he did not have the broken piece that could of been welded back on.   

Actually, it is where the travel limiter is installed. The travel limiter is nothing other than an M5 bolt threaded from halfway up the shank to the head, the rest being just a smooth pin that goes into an indentation about the size of a dime in the right side of the tank. I am not sure but I think it is there for those folks that are running the soft version of the AV springs.

Would have been nice to have it and put the saw back together right. Looking4Firewood is in Florida on business this week, perhaps I will send him a note this weekend to see if he might still have it. I don't know how to weld magnesium so will have to get someone to do it, if he has it.
Title: Re: 371xp not running
Post by: 3000 FPS on February 21, 2014, 04:38:12 pm
Welding magnesium is something I can do.   He would just have to decide if it is worth the effort and expense for shipping.

The travel limiter I am familiar with.   On the huskys I have it is located in a different place.
I always thought it was there for the person who likes to yank on his saw too hard when pinched.
Title: Re: 371xp not running
Post by: KilliansRedLeo on February 21, 2014, 04:46:59 pm
On the 372 the travel limiter goes in that little hole you see in the ear just behind the clutch.
Title: Re: 371xp not running
Post by: sharkey on February 21, 2014, 06:27:31 pm
KRL, good on you for helping out.  Those parts look awful dry.  Did you put them through the parts washer before the pics?
Title: Re: 371xp not running
Post by: KilliansRedLeo on February 22, 2014, 04:49:29 am
Yes
Title: Re: 371xp not running
Post by: jmester on February 22, 2014, 07:19:59 am
To me from the pic of the cylinder down the bore. You can tell that the air leak was on the clutch side of the saw. I can bet it was a real screamer till it locked up. Hard to see but just missing a few fins is not always mean the jug is trash. Have a 660 cylinder with broken fins near the combustion chamber and the saw still runs great and I put it together 2 years ago. Did all the base screws feel tight?
Title: Re: 371xp not running
Post by: KilliansRedLeo on February 22, 2014, 09:05:07 am
Three were near the same right rear was a little less, but none felt like they were to spec.
Title: Re: 371xp not running
Post by: looking4firewood on February 23, 2014, 10:53:18 am
The saw ran great, from the time I bought it new right up to the time it died.  Just glad that we're not burying it.  It has been my firewood workhorse, along with the 257.  It had one bad fall from about 60', 8-10 years ago, I was using a man lift to top all of the sweetgum trees in my yard prior to cutting them down, and I unfortunately was able to prove that gravity is indeed real.  Had to replace one part, but other than that, the saw continued to run great.  In hindsight I should have had a tether on it.
Title: Re: 371xp not running
Post by: KilliansRedLeo on February 23, 2014, 11:25:06 am
Plus 1 on that Tom! I will test fit the unbroken case half I have, replacing only half of a case is not always successful in that if the deck height on both halves is not a flat plane then no go. If no go do you want me to put the saw back together using the original case half? Do you still have the part of the case that was broken off?
Title: Re: 371xp not running
Post by: KilliansRedLeo on February 23, 2014, 11:50:23 am
A quick check, without the crankshaft installed looks like it will be a 'go'! So, what I propose is new bearing in your original flywheel half, and use my clutch side. What say you?
Title: Re: 371xp not running
Post by: looking4firewood on February 24, 2014, 09:23:47 am
Tim, I don't believe that the broken case was the root cause of the "issue" that we are having with the saw, do you?  The saw was running fine for years after the drop.  If you believe that the broken case is the issue, give me a call and we can talk about it.  No sense replacing parts that don't need to be replaced.  I do not have the part that broke off, actually didn't even know that a part broke off until now.
Title: Re: 371xp not running
Post by: KilliansRedLeo on February 24, 2014, 09:32:22 am
Tom, no I do not think that the broken ear on the crankcase was the root cause of the problem. The problem was caused by a leaking seal on the clutch side of the engine. I had the crankcase half just sitting around so was just going to give it to you to replace the broken one. It would not be any extra work or labor charge  because the original case is already split to replace the main bearings and substituting the unbroken case half is no big deal. When I return ship your saw, you will get back all your original parts that were replaced along with the repaired saw.

If you would rather I put the saw back together with the original case half just let me know.
Title: Re: 371xp not running
Post by: looking4firewood on February 24, 2014, 09:44:52 am
Tim, whatever you want to do, you're the expert, not me.  I'm following your lead, and just glad that I found you on this forum.  ;D
Title: Re: 371xp not running
Post by: KilliansRedLeo on February 24, 2014, 09:51:44 am
There is a small part 'travel limiter' that goes into the broken ear that helps with the anti vibration system of the saw. It is basically a threaded pin that engages a recess in the tank/handle and limits the amount of travel in the AV system.
Title: Re: 371xp not running
Post by: KilliansRedLeo on February 24, 2014, 05:49:18 pm
OK, Tom! Your saws' bottom end is back together using the unbroken case half. Turns smoother than cat snot on a doorknob! I post a couple of pics in the AM so you can have a look!
Title: Re: 371xp not running
Post by: KilliansRedLeo on February 26, 2014, 03:34:41 pm
Here is the latest on this saw, still waiting for some parts but here is where the old girl is at. Oiler, chain brake, clutch and coil go on today as soon as they are out of the parts washer.
Title: Re: 371xp not running
Post by: looking4firewood on February 26, 2014, 03:54:39 pm
 ;D she cleaned up nicely.
Title: Re: 371xp not running
Post by: KilliansRedLeo on February 26, 2014, 03:59:48 pm
Once done she will be the grand old lady in your stable :P!
Title: Re: 371xp not running
Post by: 660magnum on February 26, 2014, 04:00:57 pm
+1
Title: Re: 371xp not running
Post by: 3000 FPS on February 26, 2014, 07:50:51 pm
Once done she will be the grand old lady in your stable :P!

Nice job so far.  Nothing like a clean machine.   They even look like they would run better.
Title: Re: 371xp not running
Post by: KilliansRedLeo on February 26, 2014, 08:34:06 pm
Thank you 660Magnum and 3000FPS! I believe that when a customer sends their saw off to me to be totally rebuilt; when they receive it back it should be rebuilt to the best of my ability but also look like it was rebuilt.

It was well taken care of by Looking4Firewood even though 16 years old! Customers SHOULD get what they pay for.
Title: Re: 371xp not running
Post by: farmboy on February 27, 2014, 02:39:38 pm
Nice job so far.  Nothing like a clean machine.   They even look like they would run better.
[/quote]
They do run better!!!! ;D
Shep
Title: Re: 371xp not running
Post by: looking4firewood on February 27, 2014, 07:32:59 pm
KRL ...My wife thinks that she's the grand old lady in my stable, shhhhh.   ;D
Title: Re: 371xp not running
Post by: KilliansRedLeo on February 28, 2014, 09:01:56 am
KRL ...My wife thinks that she's the grand old lady in my stable, shhhhh.   ;D

OK, to please your wife and keep peace within the household, I will restate that "she will become the Grand Dam of your CHAINSAW Stable"! ;)
Title: Re: 371xp not running
Post by: KilliansRedLeo on March 01, 2014, 09:09:14 pm
Tom, the last of your parts should be here Monday, so saw should be back together Tuesday. I noticed that you had a clutch cover that was set up for the side adjust chain adjuster, so I had the parts laying around and will change it over, that way you will not cut off anymore finger tips adjusting your chain! ;D
Title: Re: 371xp not running
Post by: looking4firewood on March 02, 2014, 08:30:13 am
Tim, it was just one finger tip, and it was all flesh.  The ER sewed it back on.  A side adjust, hmm, that's going to be something new for me.
Title: Re: 371xp not running
Post by: KilliansRedLeo on March 02, 2014, 09:35:50 am
It is no big deal, your clutch cover was already set up for it. Perhaps when you bought the new cover the dealer removed the parts because your saw had the front adjust. The side adjust allows you to adjust chain tension by putting your scrench in a hole in the clutch cover just behind the bar mount instead of threading it between the bar and inner felling dog to adjust the chain. If you do not like it it can be removed by taking out two screws. IMHO it really does make the process of keeping correct chain tension much faster, easier and more safely than the front adjust.
Title: Re: 371xp not running
Post by: 660magnum on March 02, 2014, 10:32:53 am
The 372 style with the adjuster in the cover is much easier to use than the 371 style in the crankcase.

I have a nice 371 but I don't really care for the adjuster in behind the bar.
Title: Re: 371xp not running
Post by: countryhog on March 02, 2014, 03:35:04 pm
........The pictures were taken with my new SnakeScope clone from Harbor Freight so may not be the best as the thing is difficult to use but not a bad deal reg $249 on sale for $199 and a 25% off coupon gets it for $150. .3 inch head (goes right down the plug hole) and also will go through the EP or IP and out the other side with adjustable light, pan and zoom. I have not tried but it may even fit beneath the piston at TDC and allow you to look at the crank........

couldn't get the quote to work so doing it this way.  was nosing around lowe's today and saw a "pocket" version of something similar for ~$100. had a 2' flexible reach with led's, magnifier, etc.  don't recall if you could take pix though. sorry. it was in the electrical section aisle
Title: Re: 371xp not running
Post by: countryhog on March 02, 2014, 03:46:20 pm
looking at that tag w/SN gave my pause for consideration. what would be the proper protocol regarding machine SN when swapping parts? somewhat of a tongue-in-cheek question but seriously, some machines, poulan 306A comes immediately to mind, can be "re-numbered" just by swapping parts (the starter cover in the case of the 306A). guessing there's really not a good answer but was just wondering.
yeah, i know, that can be dangerous.
Title: Re: 371xp not running
Post by: looking4firewood on March 02, 2014, 04:36:49 pm
I have 4 huskys and they all have the bar adjuster screw next to the bar.  This probably won't take much getting use to.  It'll probably spoil me.  ;D
Title: Re: 371xp not running
Post by: KilliansRedLeo on March 02, 2014, 04:52:34 pm
looking at that tag w/SN gave my pause for consideration. what would be the proper protocol regarding machine SN when swapping parts? somewhat of a tongue-in-cheek question but seriously, some machines, poulan 306A comes immediately to mind, can be "re-numbered" just by swapping parts (the starter cover in the case of the 306A). guessing there's really not a good answer but was just wondering.
yeah, i know, that can be dangerous.

Well in this case the 362/372 family of saws have the serial number tag on the flywheel side of the case. I suppose that it could be done by switching case halves to get a different number but a lot of work, and due to wear like on the front of the case you could tell really easily that something was not right. In this case I put up the picture of the tag so others would know it was the same saw. However I will be returning the original broken case half to Looking4Firewood along with his repaired saw. Also the side of the case that was replaced was opposite side.

I understand your question about proper protocol as far as serial number goes, my feeling is that it depends on the honesty of the person doing the repair. I have repaired saws with crushed cases that required a new case, which do not come from HVA with an ID tag. My process it to return all parts replaced during a repair to the customer. This way should the decide to sell the saw at a later date they can prove by the old case what the # was and show why the number is not on the saw at this time.
Title: Re: 371xp not running
Post by: 660magnum on March 02, 2014, 04:59:52 pm
I have a little container of 365/372 serial tags removed from damaged cases.
Title: Re: 371xp not running
Post by: KilliansRedLeo on March 02, 2014, 05:03:50 pm
660, I thought they were riveted on and were very difficult to remove without damage. If you know the answer to this please do not post it in the open.
Title: Re: 371xp not running
Post by: 660magnum on March 02, 2014, 05:16:29 pm
Someone else removed these, I got them in a horse trade. He may have received them in a horse trade also?

The holes go all the way through into the muffler area.

You can make up a drill rod or piano wire driver and tap the drive screws out from the muffler cavity after you remove the muffler.

Be careful and save the pins. They are available at some hardware stores or McMaster-Carr but you don't need the trouble.

I once bought a brand new looking 357XP from the local dealer knowing that it had a new case from a crushing accident. A week or so later I discovered there's no serial tag on it. Nice chainsaw though.
Title: Re: 371xp not running
Post by: KilliansRedLeo on March 02, 2014, 05:37:15 pm
As far as the little container of tags goes. One of my customers is a large commercial tree service. Who routinely remove the serial number tags from all fully depreciated equipment before disposal and save them. They do this in case of IRS audit they can prove that they actually owned the equipment. Removed tags are a lot easier to store than the equipment itself.
Title: Re: 371xp not running
Post by: KilliansRedLeo on March 03, 2014, 11:40:24 am
No Joy! Parts are still in PA! Perhaps tomorrow?
Title: Re: 371xp not running
Post by: looking4firewood on March 03, 2014, 04:06:54 pm
Just had some 4' in diameter red oak logs delivered, looking forward to seeing what this machine is going to do.
Title: Re: 371xp not running
Post by: KilliansRedLeo on March 03, 2014, 06:35:24 pm
Tom, the high here today was 7° and we have another big storm coming through so when I tune the saw it will be in very cold weather, so you may have to re-tune the saw right out of the box!
Title: Re: 371xp not running
Post by: KilliansRedLeo on March 04, 2014, 07:49:47 pm
Tuesday, 4 March 2014, no parts again today! So I checked and found out that; in an effort to keep costs to a minimum I obviously chose the least cost shipping option. Which resulted in a 7-10 day shipping time. My sincere apologies! 
Title: Re: 371xp not running
Post by: looking4firewood on March 05, 2014, 07:25:39 am
Tim, no big deal, I'll send you an email.
Title: Re: 371xp not running
Post by: KilliansRedLeo on March 05, 2014, 12:36:57 pm
Stuff finally showed up today! Whoo hoooo, will be back to work on the saw in the AM!
Title: Re: 371xp not running
Post by: 3000 FPS on March 05, 2014, 12:58:50 pm
Stuff finally showed up today! Whoo hoooo, will be back to work on the saw in the AM!

All right I want to see this thing run.
Title: Re: 371xp not running
Post by: KilliansRedLeo on March 05, 2014, 01:04:55 pm
Stuff finally showed up today! Whoo hoooo, will be back to work on the saw in the AM!

All right I want to see this thing run.

Me too!
Title: Re: 371xp not running
Post by: KilliansRedLeo on March 05, 2014, 04:58:45 pm
Couldn't stand it had to do some work on this saw;
Got the side chain adjust installed
Piston is installed, using Caber rings and new Husqvarna clips
Measured squish with no base gasket 0.0215 on one side 0.0225 the other mean 0.022 so 1194 and no base gasket will send the solder from the squish measurement with saw
Cleaned up exhaust port
New pulse line and fuel line and filter installed

Should be back together for pressure test tomorrow! However pressure test has to wait 24 hours until the 1194 cures.
Title: Re: 371xp not running
Post by: 3000 FPS on March 05, 2014, 07:10:29 pm
Not bad on the squish it should have some decent compression.
Title: Re: 371xp not running
Post by: KilliansRedLeo on March 05, 2014, 07:38:58 pm
Not bad on the squish it should have some decent compression.

Thanks Roger, I try to build the best saws I am able!
Title: Re: 371xp not running
Post by: KilliansRedLeo on March 06, 2014, 06:16:07 pm
Saw is back together, ready to start and tune as soon as the goo cures.
Title: Re: 371xp not running
Post by: KilliansRedLeo on March 06, 2014, 06:19:27 pm
A couple more, removed carb limiters, used yamabond4, changed starter sticker to 375XP, this is a factory sticker. All ready to rip!
Title: Re: 371xp not running
Post by: 3000 FPS on March 06, 2014, 06:40:57 pm
Looks real good Tim.   That saw should run like a champ.
Title: Re: 371xp not running
Post by: KilliansRedLeo on March 06, 2014, 07:03:18 pm
Thanks Roger, we will see what the owner thinks after he runs it.
Looks real good Tim.   That saw should run like a champ.
Title: Re: 371xp not running
Post by: looking4firewood on March 06, 2014, 11:20:03 pm
LOL, like I'm going to complain, from something locked up to what you delivered....  I won't have the chance to try it out for a couple of weeks, but looking forward to it...
Title: Re: 371xp not running
Post by: KilliansRedLeo on March 07, 2014, 10:47:29 am
LOL, like I'm going to complain, from something locked up to what you delivered....  I won't have the chance to try it out for a couple of weeks, but looking forward to it...

You have every right to complain, YOU are the customer who sent his saw off to an unknown guy for rebuild!