The Husqvarna 61 chainsaw, manufactured by Husqvarna Vapenfabriks AB in Huskvarna, Sweden, was first introduced in 1980. It quickly gained a reputation as a powerful and reliable tool, with a 61.5 cc engine producing an advertised horsepower of 4.1. The chainsaw featured an anti-vibration handlebar system, an inertia-activated chain brake, and a direct drive system.
It also boasted a die-cast magnesium and injection-molded polymer construction, making it lightweight at just 5.8 kg (12.8 lbs.), and an automatic oil pump to keep the chain lubricated during operation.
However, despite its popularity, the Husqvarna 61 chainsaw was discontinued in 1997. Nonetheless, the chainsaw is still regarded as a classic among chainsaw enthusiasts, and many continue to use and cherish it to this day.
Specifications Chart
| SPECIFICATION | DETAILS |
|---|---|
| Manufactured by | HUSQVARNA VAPENFABRIKS AB HUSKVARNA, SWEDEN |
| Year introduced | 1980 |
| Year discontinued | 1997 |
| Engine displacement | 61.5 cc (3.75 cu. in.) |
| Cylinder bore | 48 mm (1.89 in.) |
| Piston stroke | 34 mm (1.34 in.) |
| Piston ring thickness | 1.5 mm |
| Cylinder type | Aluminum with chrome plated bore |
| Intake method | Piston ported |
| Manufacturer advertised HP | 4.1 hp (2.9 kW) |
| Weight | 5.8 kg (12.8 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-163A, B, HS-254A series, or Walbro WS series |
| Major repair kit | RK-23HS for HS-163A |
| Minor repair kit | DG-5HS/T for HS-163A |
| Air filter system | Nylon mesh cartridge |
| Starter type | Automatic rewind |
| Oil pump | Automatic |
| Maximum engine RPM | 8,300 under load, 12,500 max free with bar and chain installed after the break-in |
| Idle RPM | 2,500 |
| Ignition timing | Fixed |
| Breaker point setting | None |
| Flywheel/coil air gap | 0.30 mm (0.012 in.) |
| Spark plug type | Bosch WSR7F/WS7F, NGK BPMR7A, Champion RCJ7Y |
| Spark plug gap | 0.50 mm (0.020 in.) |
| Crankshaft main bearings | Ball |
| Fuel tank capacity | 750 ml (25.3 fl. oz.) |
| Fuel oil ratio | 50:1 |
| Recommended fuel octane | Regular grade |
| Mix oil specification | Electrolux-approved oil, Husqvarna mix oil |
| Chain pitch | 3/8 in. |
| Chain type | 73LG Oregon |
| Bar mount pattern | 17 link |
| Shortest guide bar supplied | 40 cm (16 in.) |
| Longest guide bar supplied | 60 cm (24 in.) |
| Color scheme | Husqvarna Orange with black top cover |
| Illustrated parts list | Yes |
| Service manual | Yes |
In conclusion, the Husqvarna 61 chainsaw was a popular and reliable tool that was manufactured by Husqvarna Vapenfabriks AB in Huskvarna, Sweden. Introduced in 1980 and discontinued in 1997, this chainsaw had an engine displacement of 61.5 cc, with a cylinder bore of 48 mm and a piston stroke of 34 mm. Its die-cast magnesium construction, anti-vibration handlebar system, and automatic rewind starter made it a powerful and easy-to-use tool.
It also featured an inertia-activated chain brake, a direct drive type, and a centrifugal clutch. The Husqvarna 61 chainsaw had a maximum engine RPM of 8,300 under load and an idle RPM of 2,500. Its fuel tank capacity was 750 ml, and it required a fuel-oil ratio of 50:1. With its Husqvarna Orange color scheme and black top cover, this chainsaw was easily recognizable in the hands of professionals and homeowners alike.
Though it has been discontinued for over two decades, the Husqvarna 61 chainsaw remains a beloved collector tool among those who used it during its heyday.