Husqvarna T542i XP

[Franny K]

I found a video about the model in the title here. Notable is that it has a centrifugal clutch like an ice model. It also seems to have a metal sprocket cover that now can really be called a clutch cover. Seems to be improved about chip removal from that area as my 536 model isn't too good in that regard. I have had my doubts about the two flats on a round that is perhaps 1/2" at most being able to handle much power for something getting called pro level. This is a screen capture from around minute 9. The guy has quite a few other videos as well, I wasn't searching for this when I found him.

 

[OM617YOTA]

Clutch would make chainsaw chaps or pants more effective.

 

[Bluefish]

Clutch would make chainsaw chaps or pants more effective.

This is a very good point.
Pretty scary that a 200 dollar battery saw can defeat 10 layer chaps.

 

[OM617YOTA]

This is a very good point.
Pretty scary that a 200 dollar battery saw can defeat 10 layer chaps.

I think most battery electric saws have current sensing on the motor controller, and simply shut down if current goes too high. Kind of does the same thing as a clutch.

 

[Bluefish]

Nonetheless, even the best chaps warn that they won't stop electric saws.

 

[Franny K]

They might not stop electric saws. If I can contact a 3/8 inch free hanging twig and it shuts down on the model I have seeing these chap issues pertaining to electric chainsaws in this case not even saying battery seems silly. Search youtube if you have such a battery chainsaw and see if you can find a video of someone trying a test. Even the owners manual may make you puzzle at least a Stihl manual I read does. There are brushed reduction gear battery chainsaws (on/off as opposed to variable speed) those might be what the chap warning really pertains to.

So it has been 4 months since I posted here. No 542 available (here) but the 540 has been on sale for 20% off and is now at 15% off. You might notice that the picture in post 1 is for the 300 battery where the package deals from Husqvarna give 2 200 model batteries for the top handle variant.

The centrifugal clutch will allow the chain to coast to a stop as opposed to pretty much stop immediately so that is a step backwards in the safety department.

I don't know if this 542 is a small spline or uses the clutch drums from the gasoline 540 which are 6 spur in 3/8lp and 7 spur in mini .325