The Clutch on My Husqvarna Rancher Stuck

Accessing the Clutch

• The clutch on a Husqvarna Rancher sits underneath the bar cover. To access the clutch on this model chainsaw, the bar cover, bar and chain need to be removed. Since the clutch moves in response to the piston, it will need to be stopped for the operator to unscrew the clutch hub. A rubber tool, called a piston stop can be inserted directly into the spark plug hole, which will also prevent the operator from damaging the piston during this procedure.

Disassembling the Clutch

• After stopping the piston, you'll need to remove the clutch hub to disassemble the clutch. Another special tool, called the clutch removal tool, fits around the center of the clutch, grabbing it and holding it firmly in place. Unlike most other screws, the clutch hub uses a reverse thread, so to remove it, turn the clutch hub counterclockwise. All of the clutch assembly parts fit onto the crankshaft stub, so gently slide these parts off and separate them. Always wear safety glasses when removing the clutch as the springs may fly out unexpectedly and hit the operator in the eye.

Determining the Problem

• Before checking the clutch parts for any damage, remove the piston stop tool from the spark plug hole and try turning the crankshaft by hand. If the crankshaft doesn't spin, the problem isn't with the clutch, but with the crankcase.

  When the clutch drum wears out, it will show signs of thinning around the edge. The sprocket, when it wears out, will show signs of wearing in the grooves and on the teeth, which may also have deep gouges in them. The needle cage bearing will no longer spin when they go bad. If the three clutch springs disconnect from the clutch shoes, the clutch will no longer spin properly.

Other Causes

• While the clutch may require repairs or replacement, other problems on the chainsaw can also cause this problem. As noted, if the crankshaft doesn't spin, the crankshaft, crankshaft gaskets or the crankcase may have become damaged. In addition, a scoured or gouged piston will also stop the crankshaft from spinning. The chain brake cable and spring, which sit on the top of the clutch, may also stop working properly and may cause the clutch to stop spinning.