Husky 288

[Dennis]

Husky...the 288 came out with decompression is the mid nineties I believe...
The throttle locks purpose is to prevent accidental revving of the engine and provide a "high idle" per say...but by no means does it act as a decompression....the throttle lock part number is 501-81-75-02 any of your local husky dealers will prolly have one...the spring if you need it should be pn# 501-56-79-02 or updated..503-73-12-01 the lock runs about 5 bucks here...(cdn)
Good luck...the 288 is a great saw...should last you a long time

 

[treeclimber165]

Can't help with the throttle lock or decompression, but I'd recommend new starter cord if the old cord is anywhere near frayed. It can hurt like heck when the rope breaks on a full-force pull! Be sure to get the right size, too big will wear prematurely and too small won't last very long.
Also, Stihl has an 'elastostart' handle that has a spring inside. Makes it easier to start high compression saws. Don't worry, it doesn't say 'Stihl' on the handle.

 

[WOLF_RIVER_MIKE]

Seems like I remember reading one of the saw builders on this forum can install a decomp valve on any saw. Don't remember who it was exactly. That money spent would be worth it seems to me. Less stress on starting componets and operators.

 

[rahtreelimbs]

Hey 288

One thing that has helped me ( this was passed on to me by a Stihl tech rep. ) was to bring the saw up to top dead center of the compression stroke and then drop starting it. Hope this helps !!!!

 

[stihltech]

elastostart

The elastostart handle is kind of a poor man's decompression valve. I put it on 026's for the senior citizens who cannot pull it over anymore. Works quite well. Get the correct rope size, there are three. Makes an 044 start like an 046 with a valve.