R.I.P. Husqvarna Rancher 61

My old (1983) Rancher bit the dust with a scored piston recently. Since I've always been meticulous about my fuel mix, it may have already had problems when I got it 3 years ago (it didn't run then). Anyway, the cost of repair was more than the saw was worth, so I decided to replace it. After much thought and discussion, I decided to buy a new saw rather than a rebuilt one. My local shop steered me towards the Redmax line, being a Redmax warranty service center helped the decision.

I got the G5300 with a 20 inch bar, which, when compared side by side, bears a striking resemblance to a Husqvarna 353.



It is the only saw in their line that does not have the Redmax Strato engine, and one of two with the characteristic cylinder cover clips that Husqvarna uses. The dealer also tells me that the part numbers are the same (Husqvarna bought Redmax in 2007). Lifetime warranty on the electronics, 2 years on everything else. Haven't had a chance to test it yet, we'll see how it performs.

Edited because I need to read people's entire threads before posting...

What did you do with the 61?

Everything about the RedMax looks Husqvarna?

I would say thats like other "branded" products out there. Made by one, but sold by many..

Was it cheaper than the 353? I know many landscapers around me use Redmax trimmers. They fetch High Dollar at my Husqvarna dealer. Though they only sell Weedwackers and no Saws..

Yes, looks a lot like a husky, I do like the red color better

Congrats on the new saw! That thing looks just like a Husky!

It's still at the shop, debating whether to let them keep it or pay the $35 bench fee for the diagnosis. Been thinking about buying an aftermarket piston and cylinder and doing the job myself. Anybody have a recommendation for a good brand?

The Redmax was less than the Husky 353 by about $40. That and the additional 30 miles one way to the dealer (who is not a warranty service center) convinced me to try the Redmax. I live in a VERY small town, 2000 people if you take in a circle 20 miles in diameter, so the dealer is very careful with his reputation. Besides, I like the red!

If you bought the new saw from them they should waive the service fee on the old saw. For aftermarket parts, check Bailey's as they stand behind the product they sell.

I have a 1982 Husq 61, .
my chain break is missing a few parts so I took it of, throttle is bailing wire, cracked handle, still runs ok.
Now my back up saw.
I replaced mine with a Husq 359

Got Parts?

Yeah, he should waive that fee on your other saw. The old Husky 61's were a decent firewood saw, I would say if you go to Baileys or another place and buy the parts, it would be an easy fix. Cylinder, ring, piston, and crankshaft seals........carb rebuild kit and that saw would last quite a while.

Fix it even if you have to cough up the $ 35.00 . A cheap backup saw is worth it's weight in gold sometimes. A C

He cut me a hell of a deal on the saw, so I really can't ask for too much more. I just spoke to the mechanic, he said that most likely I don't need a cylinder, just spend some time with fine emery (wet) cleaning up the transfer & replace the piston and rings. It's been a good saw, I'll probably go for it.

i think it's a waste of your time. I'll give you shipping

Most shops realize that they are money ahead if they waive the diagnostic fee if you buy a new piece of equipment from them to replace the old. I would ask, it never hurts and the worst they can say is no.

Even the most honest dealership is out to make a buck or two. I wouldn't be surprised if they say that they'll waive the fee if you let them have the saw. If they say that to you, then 1st, throw a tantrum. If that doesn't work, then pay the 35 bucks and call me. (I seriously want your saw, but honestly you should know it's worth more than whatever I'd give you for it and certainly more than $35)

Thanks Danno, I'll definitely keep you in mind. They've already said they'll waive the fee if I let them keep the saw. I figured out pretty quickly that the parts are worth more than $35. Just debating whether to try to fix it myself or pass it on. All of the parts, case, etc. are in good shape. What to do, what to do?????

I still agree with myself.

Ok, okay, okaaay! I'm convinced! Went and paid the bail. The carb and exhaust came back in bags (in pieces). Lovely, a puzzle . Anyway, I took the cylinder off, it was retained with 1/4-20 socket cap screws! Took a while to find the right Allen wrench. I guess someone's been in here before me. What can you expect from a 30 year-old anyway? Cylinder looks like it will need minimal cleanup, so I got online and ordered a piston kit. Now to sort out the carb and wait for the piston.

Go to arborist site and the beg for manuals thread and you should be able to get a nice diagram of that carb.

I've already got the manual. Just have to sit down and sort it. Another revelation, there was NO cylinder gasket! Wonder what else I'll find. As I'm cleaning this up and taking it apart, I'm realizing that the exterior is in remarkably nice condition. Ordering more parts....

No cylinder gasket! Nice!

I'd still measure the squish to make sure after mocking up the new piston and bolting down the cylinder.

My Dad has a 61 and a 61 Practica and my uncle has a 61 also. For its vintage, the 61 is a bang up firewood saw.

I keep learning new things. My serial number (142983) apparently indicates it's an '81, not an '83. Mine also says Practica on it, does that make it different?
The carb is reassembled, good thing I have the manual and have rebuilt it before.

I think the Practica and the Rancher are the same saw different years.