Husqvarna 240e

I've been using a 240e for three seasons to cut upwards of ten cords of fir,spruce,birch and juniper a season and it does a wonderful job. However, when I replace the metal brake band around the clutch it never lasts more than two brake applications...a serious flaw indeed. Could this flaw be peculiar to my saw?

I usually buy Stihl but on this occassion chose the Husqvarna 240e as the direct comparitor with improved features and far better VFM. I've now owned it for two years and am very pleased. Starts well, without fail and as suggested it should by Husqvarna. Very easy to tension chain and remove the chain cover for servicing, replacements of repair. This machine has the 15" bar and has really earned its money on some substantial timber. Well done Husqkvarna.

I would't recommend this saw to my worst enemy let alone a friend for quality and safety reasons. After a few uses, the spring inside the recoil starter unit failed jamming the spindle. This was replaced under warranty but at my inconvenience. Yesterday the front hand guard sheared off when I was using it to lock the chain clutch before restarting the saw. This is a key safety part and had it have failed at another time I could have been seriously injured. Either I got a lemon or Husqvarna has serious quality issues. I have raised the matter with them and their response will be interesting.

I originally wanted a stihl, but I also wanted something local dealers carried, so I wouldn't have issues finding parts. This is my first Husqvarna, and it's a little beast compared to my last pathetic saw (homelite super XL II), I only cut firewood with it, about 8 cords a year. Last year was my first year with it, and it made the work seem easy. The tool-less chain tensioner is a real time saver, and one less thing to carry with me. It is very easy to pull (turn over), it doesn't rip your arm off. The gas and oil ports are easy to get to, servicing is a snap, the internal blower doesn't let as much dust into the filter, and the engine has alot of tourqe and is very responsive. If you're looking for a first time saw, or don't need anything over 10 lbs., you can't go wrong with this $250 saw.