Resetting Chain Brake on Husqvarna 36

[AJAEbj42]

Just thought I'd pass this along. My kick-back chain brake engaged the other day, not sure how, but it wouldn't release. Did some research online and apparently (I'm no saw expert by any means!) this is an issue with the Husqvarna 36/41 models. I think the coil spring in the handle somehow slips around the top pin, thus preventing you from resetting the brake.

I took a pic of what it should look like with the spring re-engaged properly.

I needed to dissassemle it and push the pin with a screwdriver very hard to re-engage the spring. Keep your hand on the spring (or leave the cover on), or you'll be hunting for it 40 feet away !

Hope this helps anyone who has run into this before.

 

[D'Animal]

Your chain saw did exactly what it was suppose to do.

Put it back together.


Here is a picture of what your chain brake assy should look like. Notice the Band and how it is expanded.

 

[D'Animal]

Here is what it looks like when the chain brake is engaged.

The bottom picture shows how the band is compressed. If this was on the saw, it would grab the sprocket drum and stop the saw chain.

 

[D'Animal]

When the chain brake engages while you are running the saw, you let the saw idle down and then you have to grab the handle and pull it towards you to reset the spring.

Since you pryed it off the saw, you have to grab the handle and pull it straight back inline with the side cover. Do not twist it! Use both hands since it is very stiff. You will think you are about to brake the handle.

 

[AJAEbj42]

Thanks!

I'll remember that for next time. I think the brake was already 'stuck on' when I tried to start it yesterday. I must have done something the last time I used it and didn't notice.

 

[D'Animal]

They are kinda touchy. They are designed to kick on when the saw is bumped or jarred or kicks back. Sometime they will engage while bouncing around in the back of a truck.