Clutch rubbing cover.

[alabamatriker]

I have 2 saws with the same issue. 288xp and 281xp. Had to replace clutch cover on both. One had no brake in it, the other the joint was weak and brake keeps engaging while cutting. I bought 2 aftermarket covers. Both seemed to fit fine. But after running and pulling them off to clean, I noticed the hex part of the clutch had cut a groove in both covers. the 288 was a little worse and it has a good bit less run time than the 281. Anyone ever ran into this? Any idea of a fix. Hate for the new covers to keep getting chewed up.

 

[Woodslasher]

Sounds like your clutches are coming off, the drum teeth aren't seated in the oiler gear, or both.

 

[Bob Hedgecutter]

If everything from the oil seal out is fitted correctly, clutch needle bearing is not flogged out and you are running the factory (not thinner aftermarket) bar stud oil delivery cover plate- there should be sufficient clearance to the OEM cover.
Aftermarket cover- well, you pay the asking price and hope for the best, but there is no guarantee the tolerances are correct.