Husqvarna 550 XP Review

The first generation of Husqvarna 550 XP was developed for tree care professionals and skilled landowners. The saw has a slimmed-down design and is loaded with features for efficient convenient operation. The X-Torq engine technology provides more power where you need it. There’s a second-generation – the 550 XP Mark II, which fixed some of the issues of the first-gen.

Pros & Cons

Powerful
Lean body
Good price/power ratio

Some people report carburetor issues

Conclusion

I can’t recommend the first generation Husqvarna 550 XP to you. There are way too many reported issues regarding durability and reliability. There seem to be problems with starting in hot/humid weather and carburetor issues. The newer 550 XP Mark II seems to be a significant improvement in that regard and doesn’t have similar problems.

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Design

Flip-up tank cap

Easy to open and close when refueling.

Combined choke/stop control

Allows for easier starting and reduces the risk of engine flooding.

Side-mounted chain tensioner

Easier access to chain tensioning device compared to the front tensioning.

Felling marks

Distinct, colored marks on the chainsaw body used for aiming the direction of tree fall.

Quick-release air filter

Easily removable air filter, when you need to clean it or replace it.

Snap-lock cylinder cover

When you need to change anything inside the saw or do some cleaning, you just pop the snap-lock on each side of the saw and you’re good to go.

Visible fuel level

The fuel tank is transparent, so you can see how much fuel is left.

Slimmed-down design

The chainsaw is easy and convenient to handle in any situation thanks to its low and slender body.

Air Purge (first generation and Triobrake only)

When pressed, it removes air from the carburetor and fuel system for easy starting.

Durability

Air Injection

The centrifugal air cleaning system prevents larger dust and debris particles from reaching the air filter. In return, you get improved engine life and less maintenance cleaning the air filter. All Husqvarnas have this.

Magnesium crankcase

Sturdily built crankcase withstands high RPMs and tough professional use. This ensures a long service life.

Retained bar nuts

This function prevents loosing the bar nuts.

Retained starter screws (second generation only)

Prevents losing the screws holding the starter.

Adjustable oil pump

You can control oil flow based on application and weather conditions.

Three-piece crankshaft

Forged three-piece crankshaft for maximum durability for the toughest applications.

Safety

LowVib

The vibration dampening system called LowVib is present in all Husky chainsaws. Metal springs in the engine suspension reduce vibrations felt by the operator. This allows you to work longer without your hands getting exhausted and it also prevents developing medical conditions.

The front handle and handguard are offset by 7° to provide a more natural holding position.

Inertia activated chain brake

In the case of kickback, the inertia mechanism will stop the chain from running. This significantly reduces the risk of injury.

TrioBrake (TrioBrake version only)

Allows the chain brake to be activated either automatically by the inertia release mechanism or mechanically by your left or right hand.

Performance

Smart Start

Engine and starter design to start the machine quickly with minimum effort.

X-Torq

Probably the best thing about newer Husqvarna saws. It reduces emissions by up to 75% and fuel consumption by up to 20%. You spend less on gas and breathe less fumes. It also makes the saw CARB compliant.

AutoTune

Gives optimal engine performance throughout automatic engine setting. No time spent on carburetor adjustments. It compensates for different fuels, altitude, humidity, temperature and clogged air filter.

RevBoost (first generation and TrioBrake only)

Provides rapid acceleration and higher chain speed for best limbing performance.