Buying 044/046...need advice.

[fishhuntcutwood]

Hello all, this is my first post here, so go easy on me.

I'm looking to buy an 044 or 046. Other than checking for compression, cracked handles, and other obvious defects, what should I look for and what should I pay? I know new 440's go for $650+. I've been reading past posts on here and saw a couple of things mentioned, like spun crank bearings on older models. Are there S/N's that I should look for, or look to avoid? So what kind of advice can you give a guy who has good mechanical common sense, (USCG helicopter mechanic by trade) but isn't that well versed on the intricacies, specifics, and ins and outs I might not know to look for?

And does anyone know where I can find a service manual, or even parts manual for my 056?

Take care all,
Jeff

 

[Lawn Masters]

Welcome to the site Jeff,

For your parts manual, Someone here probably has it, or you can contact Stihl directly for it.

On any saw I'd also look to confirm the saw runs properly, is setup right, and isnt mechanically defective. Oiler should be oiling the chain, carb should be rich enough to keep the saw 4 stroking at full throttle. it should idle properly, and not slip when under load. if it meets the major requirements, then you're good to go.