New saw advice.

[Frickjp]

After paying $300 for a carb repair on my 3-year-old 550XP, I've become less of a fan of computer-controlled machines. I don’t know what was wrong with a string and a gas hole. I am looking for an approx. 5HP saw. We have 2 properties, each that provide fire wood and need thinning on occasion. I have smaller saws for most purposes, but when a larger one needs cut, I want a larger saw. Currently, the 550 runs a 20” 3/8 .058 bar and chain. I probably have a dozen chains. I am looking at a Stihl. I seem to find that the MS362 fits my needs. Will an MS362 run an .058 bar? Is it a reliable saw? My smaller Stihl has never missed a beat. I’d rather not have 2 dozen 72 link chains, as I will never be able to keep them straight.

 

[CausticUC]

Not really a response to your question; however I am curious.

If you have a dozen saws and a 20" bar is your "large" saw, what are your other saws? And why are they too small to run a 20" bar?


Edit: oh wait, dozen chains not saws.

 

[cuinrearview]

A 362 is computer controlled, unless you get an older V1 doorstop model. I'm not sure if those are even 5hp.

 

[Deleted member 117362]

A 362 is computer controlled, unless you get an older V1 doorstop model. I'm not sure if those are even 5hp.

He is in 2172, 372 range.

 

[cuinrearview]

He is in 2172, 372 range.

Those aren't Stihls silly.

 

[sean donato]

So what did they find wrong with your 550? A $300.00 repair means more then just a carb, they are around $100.00 ish.

 

[vtfireman85]

I am not a saw expert by any means, I am an electrician who went to forestry school, and I am a certified Generac tech. in your saw, it sounds to me like a case of chucking parts at in hopes to make up for poor diagnostic ability. again, I wasn't there and I am not an expert. as to your bar and chain conundrum, I have recently discovered that .058 is a husquvarna size and .050 a Stihl, im in a similar boat in that I am buying a used Stihl for sentimental reasons more than necessity, to adapt to your existing bar and chain would be a pain, and constantly cause compatibility issues, especially as you forget where one part began and another ended. my advice would be to stick with husquvarna. they have given me excellent service through the years, and before them was a Johnsered that did the same. if you don't otherwise have brand loyalty, go with the one that has the best dealer.

 

[Deleted member 117362]

Those aren't Stihls silly.

Why would he want one of those?

 

[holeycow]

A 362 is computer controlled, unless you get an older V1 doorstop model. I'm not sure if those are even 5hp.

Older V1 not a doorstop is 4.6 torquey hp.

OP, you're looking for 70cc or more..

 

[CausticUC]

Why would he want one of those?

Sort of went over this above regarding his chain collection.

Which, to be honest, puzzles me as well since he would have different chains for different bar lengths.

 

[CausticUC]

Older V1 not a doorstop is 4.6 torquey hp.

OP, you're looking for 70cc or more..

A 70cc for a 20" bar?

 

[holeycow]

He said at least 5hp..

Most 60's are 4.5 or so, most 70's are 5.5 or so,.. I think?

 

[hseII]

After paying $300 for a carb repair on my 3-year-old 550XP, I've become less of a fan of computer-controlled machines. I don’t know what was wrong with a string and a gas hole. I am looking for an approx. 5HP saw. We have 2 properties, each that provide fire wood and need thinning on occasion. I have smaller saws for most purposes, but when a larger one needs cut, I want a larger saw. Currently, the 550 runs a 20” 3/8 .058 bar and chain. I probably have a dozen chains. I am looking at a Stihl. I seem to find that the MS362 fits my needs. Will an MS362 run an .058 bar? Is it a reliable saw? My smaller Stihl has never missed a beat. I’d rather not have 2 dozen 72 link chains, as I will never be able to keep them straight.

Autotunes seem to be known for either being great or having issues.

A new 362 is Stihl’s answer to the Husky 562 & both are electronic carb saws. The 362 is a solid choice in its class. Don’t be scared of the MTronic.

If you’re set on a new saw with a conventional carburetor and 5 or more HP, I would encourage you to look toward a MS461.

Evidently the Husqvarna 372s are decent too since they just reintroduced them for the 5 time. [emoji849]


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk Pro

 

[FordF550]

I have a early Jonsered 2253. I had a AT12 carb put on it.It was only 122.00. Sounds like someone took advantage of you. About the price that you paid.The Husy 2163 or 365 would be a great start if you want a non computer controlled saw. Please take a look at the 550 mark2, mine has been dead reliable.

 

[Trdoldtreecutter]

For a 20” bar, I’d find a 260ish size stihl, then have a saw shop break and mend the chains to fit. Around here I see a few used 260’s on Craigslist that look pretty good in the pics for a decent price. I’ve ran them in the tree service and they hold up good and decent power for weight

 

[cuinrearview]

Older V1 not a doorstop

Agree to disagree.

Older V1 4.6hp.

Same as an 034 Super except those ran better.

OP, you're looking for 70cc or more..

Probably

 

[cuinrearview]

Why would he want one of those?

Well, nobody's perfect. We all try to help each other. I almost PM'd you today Rex how have you been?

 

[Deleted member 117362]

As good as it gets, thanks. All well with your family?

 

[cuinrearview]

As good as it gets, thanks. All well with your family?

Yes. Son just entered a millwright apprenticeship and daughter is smoking school at home. Thank you for asking.

 

[Maintenance supervisor]

Pro mac 700 , lasts 40+ years and easy to work on, husqvarna bars readily adapt to it.
Or 362 is a nice saw, if old stuff scares you.