The Husqvarna 55 chainsaw, introduced in 1990 by Husqvarna Vapenfabriks Huskvarna in Sweden, quickly became a popular choice for professional loggers and homeowners alike. With its powerful 53cc (3.2 cu. in.) engine, anti-vibration handlebar system, and automatic oil pump, the 55 offered a combination of performance and comfort that few other saws could match.
The chainsaw also featured an inertia-activated chain brake, centrifugal clutch, and direct drive, making it a reliable and easy-to-use option for cutting through all types of wood. In this article, we will take a closer look at the specifications and details of the Husqvarna 55 chainsaw, which has since been discontinued.
Specifications Chart
| SPECIFICATION | DETAILS |
|---|---|
| Manufactured by | Husqvarna, Vapenfabriks Huskvarna, Sweden |
| Year Introduced | 1990 |
| Engine Displacement | 53cc (3.2 cu. in.) |
| Cylinder Bore | 46 mm (1.81 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 32 mm (1.26 in.) |
| Cylinder Type | Aluminum with Chrome plated bore |
| Intake Method | Piston ported |
| Manufacturer Advertised H.P. | 3.3 hp (2.4 kW) |
| Weight | 5.2kg (11.4 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 | Walbro WT-170<br>Zama C1Q-EL6, C1Q-EL7 |
| Major Repair Kit | K20-WAT for Walbro<br>RB-45 for Zama |
| Minor Repair Kit | D10-WAT for Walbro<br>GND-33 for Zama |
| Air Filter System | Nylon mesh cartridge |
| Starter Type | Automatic rewind |
| Oil Pump | Automatic |
| Maximum Engine RPM | 12,500 max free after break-in with bar and chain installed,<br>9,000 under load |
| Idle RPM | 2,500 |
| Ignition Timing | Fixed |
| Breaker Point Setting | None |
| Flywheel/Coil Air Gap | 0.30 mm (0.012 in.) |
| Spark Plug Type | Champion RCJ7Y, NGK BPMR7A, Bosch WSR7F/WS7F |
| Spark Plug Gap | 0.50 mm (0.020 in.) |
| Crankshaft Main Bearings | Ball |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 600ml (20.2 fl. oz.) |
| Fuel Oil Ratio | 50:1 |
| Recommended Fuel Octane | Regular grade |
| Mix Oil Specification | Electrolux approved mix oil, Husqvarna mix oil |
| Chain Pitch | .325 in. |
| Chain Type | Oregon 20LP, 21LP |
| Bar Mount Pattern | 01 link |
| Shortest Guide Bar Supplied | 38cm (13 in.) |
| Longest Guide Bar Supplied | 51cm (20 in.) |
| Color Scheme | Husqvarna Orange |
| Illustrated Parts List | Yes |
| Service Manual | Yes |
In conclusion, the Husqvarna 55 chainsaw was a powerful and reliable tool designed for professionals and homeowners alike. Introduced in 1990 by Husqvarna, Vapenfabriks Huskvarna, Sweden, this chainsaw had a 53cc engine displacement, an anti-vibration handlebar system, and an automatic oil pump. Its maximum engine RPM was 12,500 max free after break-in with bar and chain installed and 9,000 under load.
The chainsaw was built with die-cast magnesium and injection-molded polymer, making it durable and long-lasting. Despite being discontinued, the Husqvarna 55 remains a favorite among those who still own and use it, and its legacy lives on in newer models from the company.