The Husqvarna 268 XP chainsaw is a powerhouse tool that has been widely used in the logging industry. Its introduction in 1987 marked a significant improvement from its predecessor, the 266XP, with an increased horsepower of 4.7 and other upgraded features. Manufactured by Husqvarna Vapenfabriks AB in Huskvarna, Sweden, this chainsaw quickly became a popular choice for professional loggers due to its high performance and reliability.
However, after a successful decade of production, it was discontinued in 1997. Let’s take a closer look at the features and specifications that made the Husqvarna 268 XP such a beloved tool in its time.
Specifications Chart
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Manufactured by | Husqvarna Vapenfabriks AB, Huskvarna, Sweden |
| Year introduced | 1987 |
| Year discontinued | 1997 |
| Engine displacement | 67 cc (4.1 cu. in.) |
| Cylinder bore | 50 mm (1.97 in.) |
| Piston stroke | 34 mm (1.34 in.) |
| Cylinder type | Aluminum with chrome plated bore |
| Intake method | Piston ported |
| Manufacturer advertised HP | 4.7 (3.5 kW) |
| Weight | 13.7 lbs., powerhead only |
| Handlebar system | Anti-vibration |
| Chain brake | Inertia activated |
| Clutch | Centrifugal |
| Drive Type | Direct |
| Construction | Die-cast magnesium, injection-molded polymer |
| Magneto type | Electronic Electrolux ET |
| Carburetor | Tillotson HS-134A, 234A, B, 260 series |
| Major repair kit | RK-23HS |
| Minor repair kit | DG-5HS/T |
| Air filter system | Nylon mesh cartridge |
| Starter type | Automatic rewind |
| Oil pump | Automatic |
| Maximum engine RPM | 12,500 max no load after break-in, 9,000 under load |
| Idle RPM | 2,500 |
| Ignition timing | Fixed |
| Breaker point setting | None |
| Flywheel/coil air gap | 0.30 to 0.35 mm (0.012 to 0.014 in.) |
| Spark plug type | Bosch WSR7F, WS7F, NGK BPMR7A, Champion RCJ7Y |
| Spark plug gap | 0.5 mm (0.020 in.) |
| Crankshaft main bearings | Ball |
| Fuel tank capacity | 25.4 fl. oz. |
| Fuel oil ratio | 50:1 |
| Recommended fuel octane | Regular grade |
| Mix oil specification | Electrolux approved, Husqvarna mix oil |
| Chain pitch | 3/8 in. |
| Chain type | Oregon 72 or 73 |
| Bar mount pattern | 17 link |
| Shortest guide bar supplied | 38 cm (15 in.) |
| Longest guide bar supplied | 51 cm (20 in.) |
| Color scheme | Husqvarna orange |
| Illustrated parts list | Yes |
| Service manual | Yes |
In conclusion, the Husqvarna 268 XP chainsaw was a powerful and reliable tool that was manufactured by Husqvarna Vapenfabriks AB in Huskvarna, Sweden. Introduced in 1987, this chainsaw was designed for one-man operation and featured an anti-vibration handlebar system, an inertia-activated chain brake, and a direct drive type. It had an engine displacement of 67 cc, a weight of 13.7 lbs (powerhead only), and a maximum engine RPM of 12,500 with no load after the break-in.
The Husqvarna 268 XP chainsaw was discontinued in 1997, but its legacy lives on as a testament to the high-quality craftsmanship and performance that Husqvarna is known for.