2002 Husqvarna 55 Rancher no history crank seals question

[rpep1982]

My question is whether or not to replace the crank seals in a chainsaw this old with no prior history. I haven't checked the seals and it does run but I'm concerned that the seals will go bad from being this old and I will burn up the piston. What are the signs of a seal going bad before it stops running and why not just replace them?

Thanks!

 

[Ozhoo]

Watch for racing and erratic idling especially when rolled from side to side.

 

[irhunter]

Replace them just because they are somewhat old. Or, rely on your monitoring of the saw for lean running.

It's really just Personal Choice.

If I plan to own a saw for the really long term...I am more likely to replace them before they leak.

Roy

 

[bwalker]

For a 23 year old saw and a good one at that I woukd replace the crank seals, impulse hose, manifold and put a carb kits in it. Just because I can and rubber parts don't last forever.

 

[rpep1982]

I had it out running today and I didn't notice any changes in performance as I changed orientation so that's good. I adjusted the carb by tachometer and it runs surprisingly well except for the fact that it leaks enough bar oil to put the Exxon Valdez to shame. Thanks to everyone for the replies.

 

[ammoaddict]

I had it out running today and I didn't notice any changes in performance as I changed orientation so that's good. I adjusted the carb by tachometer and it runs surprisingly well except for the fact that it leaks enough bar oil to put the Exxon Valdez to shame. Thanks to everyone for the replies.

It's a crank driven oiler. It pumps the whole time the saw is running. If it idles well in any position it's probably OK. If it's a saw you are planning on keeping a long time I would put seals in it. I have 3 of the 50 series saws. The clutch side seal and the impulse grommet are usually the first to leak.

 

[irhunter]

While I am mostly Stihl, I, too, think the 50-55 Huskys are nice saws. I could, easily, imagine wanting to keep a 55 "forever."

On the other hand, I could picture keeping a 55 right up until something newer/stronger came along. 346xp...or, something like that.

I ran my 036 for a few years, and then, decided it was probably "the one." I sold my 262xp and the 036 got seals then.

Roy