First time saw owner - Please help need advice

[hisqvarna555]

I recently acquired a 42 special Husqvarna (my first saw I’ve ever owned). My neighbor was throwing it out on curb. I believe his reason being the chain brake had melted off it. Read it’s a common issue with these saws. I had my buddy who welds modify the exhast so it doesn’t happen again, after buying a new chain brake for it. The piston looked really good and I cleaned inside a lot of old oily saw dust out of it with an air compressor.

Now I really need help finding the correct bar and chain to go with it. I believe I bought the incorrect one - K095 Mount 3/8. I got it to fit, but it doesn’t seem to turn properly the chain when I move it by hand. Pictures of bar information/specs and chain I bought included in first two pictures. Also picture of muffler modification my friend did for me. If someone experienced could lead a newbie in the right direction, or even send a link to where I can purchase the correct bar/chain combo it’d be so much appreciated. Thank you in advanced.

 

[rburg]

I would think the 42 would use .325 chain instead of 3/8.

 

[esean]

I think rburg is right. You'd need to find a 3/8 sprocket if you want to keep that bar and chain, but .325 or even 3/8LP (low profile) would be much better on a saw that size.

 

[singinwoodwackr]

Pics of the chain sprocket will help.
16”, .325 or 3/8 low-pro in .050 is recommend, not a regular 3/8.

 

[Michael E]

If you use the wrong chain pitch on the old sprocket, it will not run right. Chain, bar, and sprocket have to match. If they do, you can use either 3/8", .325" or 3/8" lo-pro. Full size 3/8" like you bought is for bigger saws and will actually cost you power, because it has much bigger teeth. That's fine for small wood and careful cuts. What people on this forum usually do in this situation: They buy a second, much bigger saw to use the new bar and chain

 

[English Al]

Also check that the bar mount is the correct one, not only for the mounting studs but also that the oil hole in the bar lines up correctly with the oil delivery slot on the casing of the saw.

I had a 44 with a 16" bar for many years that we used as a "first change" climbing saw and it was a good tool with the only problem being a tendency to overheat if it was not kept clean. It was on .325" chain.

Oh, and if you are totally new to chainsaws, learn to use it, sharpen it and use the correct safety gear!