New Echo CD-620p to replace the late, lamented Stihl 361

[jotul8e2]

I posted a while back asking for suggestions in replacing my now defunct Stihl 361. That appeared here: https://www.hearth.com/talk/threads/replace-my-stihl-361-with.197917/#post-2658558

After some delays (mother broke hip, my arthritis went into overdrive) I finally got out and picked up an Echo CS-620p with 20 inch bar.

Compare and contrast after tow tanks of fuel:
The Echo seems to have a bit more torque right where I need it most. It is not dramatic, but is noticeable.
I have no measurements, but the fuel tank in the Echo seems to be every bit as large as the 361, but it does not last quite as long. I used to wonder if that blasted Stihl was EVER going to run out of gas! I needed the break! But I could be mistaken - it is just a perception at this point.
Vibration is lower in the Echo. I suspect that is true generally for new saws vs. saws built 20 years ago.
The BIG DIFFERENCE The Echo is much better balanced in my hands. I never once picked up the 361 without it feeling awkward, particularly making horizontal (felling) cuts. I am far less fatigued after bucking a cord or so than I would have been with the 361, and the one tree I felled could not have felt more natural.

Thank you for all the suggestions and help!

 

[qwee]

I was in the same position as you - my 60cc saw went down. It was a Shindaiwa 575. I liked it. But getting parts was going to be a problem. It wasn't flashy or torquey but super reliable. So, I was considering Echo (they bought out Shindaiwa). I wanted an Echo 620 but I kept seeing new Echo 590s for sale on Craigslist.

I guess people buy them but don't use them, which results in them selling them. So, I bought 2 new Echo 590s for $600 which is cheaper than one pro 60cc saw. So far so good. They are similar to the Shindaiwa - predictable, always start, & good low end. It is nice to have 2 saws with sharp chains.

I have to drive for firewood, and I like to process 1-2 cords at a time. If I hit something like gravel/nail I can grab the other saw. These saws aren't as good as some of the 60 cc pro saws but they are good enough to get the job done. Good luck with your new cs-620.

 

[jotul8e2]

I bought 2 new Echo 590s for $600

I would have taken that deal as well. I watched ads a long time here and never saw even one offered.

I looked hard at the 590, and I am about 60% sure it would do what I wanted. But I was 95% sure of the 690, and so far I am not regretting the extra $100.

 

[qwee]

jotul8e2, You might want to consider using rubber o-rings around the air filter to keep stuff out. It is a weak spot on the cs620 & cs590. There is a kit. I just bought a $5 box of o-rings and used those o-rings.​

 

[jotul8e2]

You might want to consider using rubber o-rings around the air filter to keep stuff out. It is a weak spot on the cs620 & cs590. There is a kit. I just bought a $5 box of o-rings and used those o-rings.​

Thank you for your concern. I had seen that video as well. It does seem a reasonable and simple modification.

On that topic, one thing I do notice is that far, far less sawdust seems to be directed to the filter box in the Echo than in my old Stihl 361.

 

[Newbie78]

A wisp of grease on the oring too...

the 590/620 is a nice bucking saw. It doesn't handle or perform in a limbing application even in the same universe as the 361.

it's rubber antivibe is average, but is no comparison to a modern pro saw. Many old saws are at least as good or better. Everyone has a different sensitivity to vibes. I prefer the 361 vibes to the 590. I definitely prefer the 361 power and handling.

it's air filtration sucks and the filter gets dirty fast. It sucks fines like crazy without the o-ring/grease fix. Echo should fix that! My 590 is a 2015? model. I'm surprised and disappointed that they haven't done something about that. Sad.

I have a 590 and like it quite a bit, even though it may not sound like it, lol. But make no mistake, it isn't a pro saw. The shortcomings of the 590 are present in the 620 too, so there's a reason it is cheaper than a "pro" saw.