Husqvarna 357xp - 359etech comparison

[Mastermind]

I'm real new to this saw building stuff and this has probably been done before, I've just not seen it yet. So here goes. I have learned so much since I found this site, and want to learn some more, and my pics have improved as well (same camera). That's my goal here, to understand why the 357 is a sought after saw, but the 359 not so much. And what can be done to even things up.

I don't know crap about this stuff, I'm posting this hoping to be flamed by you guys with experience. I can handle it. Share what you have done with these saws.

The 357 jug is on the left. To my eye the transfers are miles ahead in flow capabilities. Who has port timing numbers on both saws?

The exhaust ports appear to be the same size and shape.

As are the intake ports.

Here a better shot of the 357 jug base.

Check out the crappy looking finish here. But with my grinder... And the transfer covers can be removed so it would be a breeze to work on the transfers.

 

[Mastermind]

Again 357 on the left, I don't know a lot, but I feel like the piston on the right (359) would flow into the transfers better. Tell me how dumb I am, and why.

Both are the same height.

Deck height same.

Here's a shot of the cases, I don't see any difference except the small end of the rod is wider on the 359, which would add to reciprocating weight...right? Not all that great of a thing when you are trying to increase performance.

 

[parrisw]

Good review so far, the main diff as I understand is just the JUG, and the 357 has crank stuffers.

 

[Jacob J.]

I believe the later 357s have a rod that's the same width on the small end as the 359? Husky guys confirm this?

 

[parrisw]

I believe the later 357s have a rod that's the same width on the small end as the 359? Husky guys confirm this?

Not sure, but I know that the 357 went through a couple different piston revisions as well. When I got the piston for mine, there were 2 options, cant remember the difference, might be something to do with pin size?

 

[Mastermind]

Not sure, but I know that the 357 went through a couple different piston revisions as well. When I got the piston for mine, there were 2 options, cant remember the difference, might be something to do with pin size?

I'm looking at pistons for both saws now. There are different pistons, it has to do with the connecting rod width...13mm and 15mm.

This 359 I have must be of a newer vintage, and is sporting the 15mm style rod.

 

[blsnelling]

According to the IPL, the 357 and 359 are identical with the following exceptions.

1. Different P&C
2. Rev limited coil on 357
3. Crank stuffers in the 357. The crank and case is the same though.

The 359 P&C simply need some port work and it will run right with the 357, and if the 357 isn't ported, will blow it away. As you pointed out, there's lots of work to do with the transfers. The fastest 60cc saw I've built was a 359. IMHO, the 359 is one of the best values out there. It IS a pro saw.

 

[SawTroll]

According to the IPL, the 357 and 359 are identical with the following exceptions.

1. Different P&C
2. Rev limited coil on 357
3. Crank stuffers in the 359. The crank and case is the same though.

The 359 P&C simply need some port work and it will run right with the 357, and if the 357 isn't ported, will blow it away. As you pointed out, there's lots of work to do with the transfers. The fastest 60cc saw I've built was a 359. IMHO, the 359 is one of the best values out there. It IS a pro saw.

Only when the engine has been ported! opcorn:opcorn:

 

[blsnelling]

Only when the engine has been ported! opcorn:opcorn:

IMHO, it's still a pro saw It's just a great value, especially if you grind your own cylinders.

 

[ronT2]

IMHO, it's still a pro saw It's just a great value, especially if you grind your own cylinders.

I just did a little more port work on my 2159, can't wait to fire it up tonight.

 

[Jacob J.]

Looking at Bailey's info there is older and newer pistons for the 357, which used the narrow connecting rod initially and then switched to the wider style rod.

# Husqvarna 357XP (before S/N 020700001)
# Important Note This piston fits older chainsaws with a 13mm connecting rod. Newer model 357 chainsaws have a 15mm wide connecting rod which is not interchangeable. Be sure to check your serial number before ordering.

 

[parrisw]

Looking at Bailey's info there is older and newer pistons for the 357, which used the narrow connecting rod initially and then switched to the wider style rod.

Yes, thanks that was it! Been a number of month since I put the saw together.

 

[SawTroll]

IMHO, it's still a pro saw It's just a great value, especially if you grind your own cylinders.

That sort of was what I tried to say.......

This debate is a never ending story, regarding the 353, 359 and 365 - Huskys marketing has varied with market and time as well, but has mostly indicated non-pro.....

 

[thumper440]

Are some of the 359/2159 cylinders MAHLE?

 

[blsnelling]

Are some of the 359/2159 cylinders MAHLE?

No. Only on the 357.

 

[Evan]

Troll says the 359 is a homeowner saw and doesnt compare to 357 so what the hekc are you doing wasteing your time.

very good looking review so far

 

[minkota1]

Awesome post man! The comparison pics and all, I've toyed with some porting work on my 359 and getting to see the two jugs together is great! I'm a total newb to porting so I'm hoping to learn a bunch from this thread. I hope the experienced guys will share their insights.

 

[Evan]

ive been looking over the 359 cyclinder trying to figure out who makes it. only marks ive found is a number above the transfer cover and a v2. piston is stamped mahle

 

[Mastermind]

I will be porting the 359 jug after I get it cleaned up, but the 357 is not my saw and the owner just wants it to run again.

I'll be adding to this post as I build the two saws, but first I have to order parts.

The 357 will be getting a carb kit, both crank seals, a metal style intake clamp, and new piston & ring. I plan to lower the squish and open up the muffler a bit even though it won't be used for much more than cutting fence posts...

The 359 is my saw and I intend to port it for a work saw, this is when I may be asking a bunch of questions.

It will be getting a piston kit and a metal intake clamp, aside from that it will just be a fun build.

I appreciate all the input guys...AS is a great place and I just want the attempt to give back a little of what I've been shown.

 

[minkota1]

Only when the engine has been ported! opcorn:opcorn:

Troll, you're amazing with specs, wish I knew half the stuff you know, but dont you ever get tired of trying to educate us about the 359? Those of us who run them like them just fine!