Echo CS 400 Chainsaw Review
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- เผยแพร่เมื่อ 28 พ.ย. 2015
- I couldn't find a comprehensive review on TH-cam for this chainsaw, so, I made one. I have been using this saw for 5 years, and I tried to hit all the point I like as well as the ones I don't. I have 2 other Echo machines, a weed whacker, and a hedge trimmer. In general, I think this company has very good quality, but there are a few small things that are just so annoying.
Feel free to comment, or ask questions , if you feel I missed something.
*YES. the chain IS loose. I did that on purpose to shorten up the time you had to watch me fiddle with it get it off the saw.*
My wife bought this saw for me as a Christmas gift a few years ago. I really wanted a husqvarna or a Stihl. I was very disappointed to say the least. She said you can exchange it if you want to, but I just set it on a shelf in the garage still in the box. I continued to use my old Mccoullgh saw for the next 2 years. In fact I almost gave this saw away and was just going to go out and buy what I wanted. I finally was forced to use the echo to clean up some downed trees from a hurricane. I really was not happy about using it but to my surprise it worked very well. It has since proven to be an excellent saw. It starts extremely reliably on either the first or second pull. I wanted to hate this saw, but in truth I can't. I don't have many complaints about it. Any issues with this saw are minor in nature and the pluses out weigh any negatives. I would recommend this saw for any homeowner type use in general. If you're going to need something more heavy duty or professional then step up but for your typical home use this is an excellent choice.
Great review! I've had my CS-400 for around 10 years now and it's a great little saw. It's never been in the shop and it has always started easily for me. I mix regular "gas station" gas and 2 cycle oil (from a quart bottle) and that's all it has needed. For most of the time I've had it, I've used, used motor oil for the chain lubricant and its worked like a champ. It's been a great firewood saw and I use 4-5 cords a year for my wood stove. Regarding a few of the issues you mentioned: I usually use plyers to take off the oil cap. This is easy and works well. With the chain tensioner, I tighten the chain pretty tight and also tighten the bar on the chain studs securely. When I put on a brand new chain, I run it for a few minutes and retighten the tensioner if the chain stretches a little (which it usually does). In my case, this has eliminated any problems with the chain coming loose. I am still running an 18" chain and I plan to keep it until it no longer runs. :)
Another video mentioned that it's a good idea to loosen the tension on the new chain after you tighten it because some of the initial stretch is heat expansion, and once you put away the saw the chain will tighten up and could put unwanted stress on your bar and sprocket.
Ive had the same saw for at least 5 years now and Ive sawed approximately 50 cords altogether and my saw is still running strong. Ive had to change the bar about 3 times now because of my own carelessness and just had to change the fuel filter, spark plug and the dealer sold me a $15 carburetor kit but the saw is back and i'm blocking more logs now! I love this saw and I would recommend it in a haeartbeat. Great review sir thankyou.
Wow that is a lot of things gone bad. How did you damage the bar?
I love Echo, I keep them around when my Stihls start to feel Heavy.
half of the problems you name were do to users lack of knowledge and the other half were common among all chainsaws
well said Kamil.
I was annoyed with this guys impression that he has a lack of constant experience
@@ghoulchild8153 how so? While not a professional user, I had 5 years experience with this saw, and a bunch of others. It's a simple review from an average homeowners perspective.
A trick : watch movies on flixzone. Me and my gf have been using them for watching a lot of movies during the lockdown.
@Rene Javion Yea, been watching on Flixzone for months myself :D
I muffler modded mine (plenty of videos here on how to do it) and it really brought the saw to life. Its a solid saw for near any non-professional user. Including frequent users.
Is the motor clam shell or actual crank case ?
I agree an exhaust mod and carb restriction delete really wakes it up.this guy would be really surprised how fast that 3/8 lopro chain can cut.
I have an echo cs 620 pw it's my first echo saw.I like it so much been considering getting the cs 400 thanks for the video .
Good review. I've had a CS400 for about 2 months now after my 10 year old Poulan decided to quit at the worst time. I decided to try the Echo because I love the Echo weedeater I have and so far I've been impressed with the quality of the saw. While I also have experience with Husqvarna and Stihl and will probably own Husky's and Stihls also in the future, there were a few things I liked about the Echo that I didn't like about Husky or Stihl. I like the old school metal toggle switch and separate choke control, Husqvarna now has a combined choke/kill switch that feels flimsy and Stihl makes you flip the switch UP for off, which is awkward and counter-intuitive. The Echo also has an aluminum handlebar, If you buy a Husky or Stihl in the same price range you'll get a hollow plastic handlebar. Plus Stihl has the so called "Flippy Caps" which I'm not totally sold on yet, maybe they'll grow on me. I also haven't really had any problem with power on the CS400, it's a 40cc saw, give it time to cut. I felled a dead 17" oak just this afternoon and bucked it no problem. I know it's not ideal for felling, I do plan on getting a bigger saw for that job but haven't got the money yet. It all boils down to a matter of personal taste, personally I like the mix of old school and new school features on the Echo, it's not "dumbed down" for the average Joe Blow that only needs a chainsaw maybe once a year.
Good review of good review. I can't find husqvarna dealers/parts locally, CAN FIND ECHO. Stihl is stihl, too many negative reviews of difficult cold and hot starts, Stihl you can find parts easily everywhere, the dealer is going to charge you labor for those parts.
farm boss/rancher/etc, this echo is $300, those stihl/husky's are $500.
A stihl or husqvarna at $300 is garbage. The stihl and husqvarnas at $500 are better saws...but you go south of that they are terrible.
Opinion: tired of this. I don't want to spend 500-1000 on something for it to work and last.
NOTHING, and I mean NOTHING, is worse than fighting a tool to start before you start a job.
Find a lake near you. There will be a gas station selling ethanol free fuel. The walmart full synthetic mix works fine with ethanol-free fuel.
I think this saw from echo is a quality product at a reasonable price and blasts my opinion above.
I have three all wear the aftermarket 14" bar like yours. Can't beat them for the price and reliability. Dealer support in my area is great also thing oils the bar better than any other saw I own. I run full chisle chains on mine usually. Can't wait till out of warranty to start modding it. It already rips can't wait for the mods!
I bought this saw 3 months ago. 18" bar and Oregon chain in the box. I love it. Let it warm up for a minute or two and keep the chain sharp. No issues.. I'd buy another in a heartbeat. I use it for clean up and fire wood. It's not big so it won't fituge a guy and the engine size is decent for the size of the saw. Perfect for my intentions.
Thanks for the review. Just it for Christmas. Can’t wait grip and rip lol.
I've been thinking about this model. After watching your review I'm deciding against this model. Thanks for your honesty about it. The little differences you don't like is what I wouldn't want either.
Loren
I have the same saw. Zero issues after several days of heavy use clearing a fence line of a lot of small trees, shrubs, etc. It's also cut down several larger ash & maple trees at another property. Worth every penny.
Great review. I was on the fence about buying the echo or spend the extra for the Stihl. You made up my mind. You were specific about the issues you had. So many others speak in general terms. Thank you so much. Granted this review is 8 years old but the problem parts you had are still on current models. I moved onto my father’s 100acre ranch to help my parents in their old age. So many of the trails are overgrown and so many fallen trees were never removed. I have a great deal of cutting over the next year and fighting with a chain that keeps popping off will get me to cussing quick. Had a bike like that in grade school that I threw off a bridge because of the chain that would stay tight. But you get what you pay for. So to enjoy my unpleasant job ahead of me I will pony up the extra $$$. Thank you again for the time you took to make and post this video.
Most Home Depots actually stock the fuel caps (they're common to many echo models).
Chain wise, just do a quick search about chain gauges. Has nothing to do with being a Stihl or Husqvarna or anything else. You're running 3/8LP (low profile), the smallest (smallest in terms of cutter dimensions) commonly employed size. .325 is the next step up, followed by full size 3/8 (there are other sizes, but they are not commonly employed). A 40cc saw is really best with that small chain, as making a wider kerf (cut) uses up too much power. .325 comes in a narrow kerf version that I like on small saws, that would also work well. To change gauges you need to change your bar, chain, and drive sprocket (which could be a rim or spur type, rims are better but less common on small inexpensive consumer saws.)
If you're throwing chains, your tension is either incorrect, the nuts aren't tight, or there's a problem with the sprocket or bar. It should be pretty rare to throw a chain unless you're cutting a bunch of brush.
My experience with toolless chain adjustment is "fine, if you have an electric saw you use once a year for 10 minutes." Otherwise, they're plastic and do not handle real use for very long.
Inboard clutches are nice for changing chains, definitely true. Dolmar has them even on their tiny little saws like this.
A 40cc saw is pretty limited, even with changes like the common muffler/carb limiter mods. For a one size fits all saw, 60cc is my favorite. Echo's CS-590 is a good cheap (~$400) option. I happen to use Husky mostly, their 555 (60cc) model is a less expensive and slightly detuned version of the 562xp, and is really all the saw I'd ever need. It was quoted at $530 shipped to me (local dealer wouldn't budge from list) before I found a used 562xp for less. Stihl's MS362 is an excellent saw as well. If you go down that route, know that Stihl very recently changed that model quite a lot without changing the model number, so if you want the latest and greatest (you do if you're paying Stihl's prices for them!), look for the one with slanted fins on the piston. Some areas of the US won't have them in stock for a while yet.
My god, that comment got long, sorry about that!
+volvoben2 No, all that is interesting, thanks. This is providing what I was hoping for, people bringing up things I hadn't thought of....
Just to correct myself, I said "gauge" but meant "pitch." Gauge is just the width of the bar slot and width of drive links, i.e. .050, .058, .063.
Tooless chain tensioners are awful. I would never buy a saw that has that feature but that feature is almost exclusively on battery or electric or cheaper homeowner grade saws anyway. I had a saw with one once and it was terrible. Now I stick to mainly pro saws but I do have some homeowner grade saws from Stihl and Husqvarna mostly farm and ranch or pro though. Can find nice condition used pro saws for the same price or less then you pay for a higher end homeowner or farm saw. I paid $250 for my Makita DCS6421 that was a Home Depot rental tool. Can't find a homeowner or farm saw that is of the quality that saw is and its cheaper then any farm saw even some of the higher end homeowner saws like a Stihl MS250 I also own that was I think $350 new but I got it $300 when they run their fall sale every year. I paid $400 for my Husqvarna 372xp too that is I think $900 new no way would I take a farm grade saw when I can get that saw for the same price. I paid $500 for my Stihl MS440 with a brand new Sugi Hara 28 inch bar and the original 20 inch bar guy had a brand new top end too that he had just in case he threw in on the deal too. That Sugi Hara bar alone is like $150. Said he used it for a firewood saw cutting no more then 3 cord per year and it sure looked like it saw was like new like a $1k saw if I had bought it new.
I purchased mine from a local dealer .He told me to bring it back for any problems it may have .He charged the same as Home Depot $299 . Nice to know .
Probably going to take it to him to adjust idling.
Got a can of pre mixed fuel from dealer .No more than what I use it wouldn't be to expensive.
Rural King has it for under Four dollars a smaller can .
I was looking for a durable and reliable chain saw that would last. After it dawned on me that my grass edger and blower was both Echo and were most durable for years. Cranks on one pull even after having set up for days or months. My decision after talking to other vendors and comparing, I resulted back to the Echo Chain saw Echo 490. Echo products period are excellent products as long as one keep them serviced and use the proper fluids required. They will last & last.
Het is een eerlijk verhaal.
Pofi zagen zijn gebruiks vriendelijker .
Ook een stuk duurder.
Stihl 261 heeft de trommel van de kettingrem in de motorzaag.
Dat werkt sneller met blad wissel.
Ik heb ook een husqvarna 254xp ook een super zaag.
Deze beide zagen hebben wel power!
After searching locally and online for a chainsaw I could buy right away, I about gave up. I have a big pine tree that has been laying in the front yard since hurricane Irma passed. I decided to check another big box store on the way home.. same results..24 feet of shelves, all totally empty. No chain saws in stock. Heading for the exit door, I passed by the returns register.. on the floor, I saw it.. an unopened Echo CS 400 that some one apparently returned and was getting ready to be put back on the shelf. I figured it was fate! I grabbed it and after looking at all the reviews, I think I have made a good choice. I have only owned one new chainsaw in the last 40 years, a small McCulloch, which didn't last too long. I have had numerous hand me downs, but nothing quality. I love my Echo weed wacker and am hoping this chainsaw will be no different.
Old McCulloch saws are great the newer ones seem to be junk though. Pretty sure Husqvarna or their parent company bought the name just like they own Redmax, Jonsered, Poulan and whatever else. Redmax and Jonsered are just red Husqvarna saws though and I think the cheap homeowner Husqvarna are really Poulan pretty sure they at some point were making the Craftsman saws as well. Stihl is my preferred MFG but most of that is because Stihl dealers are everywhere around here have one right around the corner from the house. I own Stihl, Husqvarna, Redmax, Makita, Echo, John Deere which I think was made by Echo, the new Cub Cadet and Deere saws were made by Efco though. I have a throwaway Homelite saw too. I just got the Echo today actually how I somehow came across this video. It isn't a CS400 though its a 330T top handle arborist saw. I might get a CS400 though because the dozen or so chains I have for that junk Homelite will work with the cs400 but won't work with my other 18 inch saws without changing out parts. Only bought that top handle Echo today because I was at the saw shop dropping off a Husqvarna 142 and Stihl 009L that I bought for $45 for the pair at an auction and they needed fuel lines and filters and a tune and I didn't want to do it myself and he had that Echo in there that somebody dropped off 2 years ago and never picked it up so I just paid the bill the guy owed and he gave it to me $45. If I don't like the saw I will just sell it like I will sell the other 2 I dropped off more then likely. That Echo is about $399 I believe so I don't see why I couldn't get $100-$150 for it probably can get $75 to $100 each on the other 2 as well and take the money from selling them to put towards a saw I actually want or to pay for one I already have.
👍Awesome Review❗
U saved me Big 💰
Almost bought a Stihl ms251c b4 seeing Ur review
thanks for the review. most people do a review they just got and sound like they are selling themselves on why they bought it.
I have 40 acres of timber so I have had a few saws over the past 30 years. I agree and dislike an outboard clutch. especially on a larger saw. I find the 50-60cc saws to be very useful in firewood and land management. I just got a new 60cc saw to replace my 15 year old 029. I hope you find a great fitting saw when you get your next one.
+Fueled Iowa Thanks. Which saw did you buy?
I bought a Dolmar ps 6100. I have a couple vids up. the best dealer in the area carries Dolmar's but after working this thing I would even order one if there was no dealer. it is a ton of saw for the money. about $200 less then the stihl ms 362m and husky 562xp and I feel the dolmar is a much better saw especially for firewood. built very well and easy to clean and get to every thing. I hope you have good luck on choosing a saw. there are so many great saws in the 50 and 60cc range. makes it hard to choose sometimes.
Huh. I will check that out.
Thank you for your review. I just purchased an Echo CS 400, and haven't even assembled it yet. Been checking out reviews to see if I made a good decision. I have already gone through Poulin and Homelight saws..one lasted a year, the other 2 years. Tired of being stuck with disposable saws.
Patrick Hume so how is it?
All those cheap Chinese Homelite, Ryobi, Poulan all that they are just throwaway saws. Alright for somebody who isn't going to use them often but nothing I would depend on. They will last a lot longer though if you only run non ethanol gas which you should be running anyway. I only run non ethanol in pretty much all my small engines. Ruins the fuel lines and gums up the carbs. The CS400 is an alright homeowner saw. I might buy one myself just because I have a dozen or so chains that I could use from an junk Homelite saw I bought 15 years or so ago that shit the bed after a couple years before I switched to mostly Stihl, Husqvarna, and Makita/Dolmar saws. I did just buy a Echo 330T tophandle saw today though my first Echo. I have all those 18 inch chains though that I can't use without changing out parts on my only saws I currently have with 18 inch bars so I won't be doing that. Local shop has refurb CS400 for $200 might buy one of those or I saw some used for $120 on Ebay just so I have a use for all those chains I have. That CS400 should do most anything a homeowner would want a saw to do just don't run gas with ethanol in it. I have saws ranging from homeowner to farm and ranch to professional and only issues I ever had was that gas ran in that Homelite. I could put new lines in it and clean up the carb but it just isn't worth it for that cheap saw. Maybe someday I will but probably won't when I have I think 8 or 9 saws right now if I am counting right lol bought 3 in the past 2 weeks so maybe I have more.
I think you gave a very good review for your saw. Several items you mention caused me to have concerns. I always buy Stihl chainsaws and I was thinking about the Echo for a change. I am convinced after looking at your review and others that I will stick with the Stihl.
Thanks, glad I could help. The responses here have told me that a lot of people like the echo. It’s not an outright bad saw. But I will say that after owning the stihl for a while, I like it a lot better. I personally find very few things to not like. I especially like the tool- less caps.
OK, I've have the CS400s for right at 20 years and the only complaint is that it's under powered, and here's the fix, I just wish I would have known it earlier. The echo saws are set to run rich until broken in usually after the first tank. Now the fix, turn in on the high-speed jet adjustment right next to the pullstart handle, there's a H for high-speed and a L for low speed, screw in on the H about a 8th to a 1/4 of a turn, and do this while the saw running wide open, you'll hear the difference, the engine will scream. You'll notice a big difference in power and a little bit less fuel consumption. Let me know, I'm running a 18 Inch bar and now I can't hardly bog it down
I run only Echo saws at this point. I have a few old Stihl saws and Homelites.
I own the CS400. If you're having problems it needs checked out by your dealer, or it's something you're doing. I haven't had an issue with mine at all. Owned it for two years now. Starts every time, cuts strong (better than it's CC's) and I cut firewood and do a lot of side work.
Silly question but is your chain sharpened correctly? Makes a big diff
I just bought this chainsaw and an aditional timberwolf 20" bar .
Darwin Rodz 20” on a 40cc echo? Hmmm
And how does it do?
Whdo you wolftimber?
I just bought it today from HomeDepot. I drove 20 Miles to Lowes to pick up a Husqvarna at the same price, they claimed that they had it in stock at the store. When I went there it was not there, so I went to HomeDepot which is about 2 miles from my house and got it. I am working from home so during my lunch time I went outside and started it and cut a few logs. I will be using it in the future to cut up some logs for my fireplace etc. I may post a review then.
I run Echo chainsaws. From the little CS 310 590 timberwolf 7310 and the grandpa cs800p. I don't have any problems with my Echo chainsaws. I run red armor two-cycle oil and 91 octane non-ethanol fuel. I buy 10 gallons at a time. I run it in my lawn mowers I especially run it in everything 2 cycle. Non-ethanol gas is the way to go. If you can get it in your area. I'm from Piqua Ohio.
Personally, I've never used anything other than stihl chainsaws, but any saw that runs/functions well is good enough in my mind. I've just never had access to anything other than Stihl.
That VP fuel is some good stuff. I use VP ProMax 97 octane in my trimmers.
i've had mine for 8 years and never had any problems with mine except for engine bog. the engine has bogged down ever since it was new. i usually run the rpm's up before cutting and it seems to help some.
Need your carburetor adjusted is all. Lean on the low end..
Amazon sells an oil/gas cap combo for a reasonable price, as well as many other Echo parts.
Howdy, (newb-y question) does this saw have a translucent fuel tank for checking fuel level without removing the cap?
It doesn't. Neither does my Stihl. I don't recall ever seeing one with that feature.
New CS 4010 replaced the CS 400 has clear fuel tank
Decent review
Just my two cents but most of the occasional users buy the saw then complain about underpowered If you Read to book it usually says to run a couple of tanks though it then tune it
Factory saws are set to run rich to break it in. Then you adjust it (after removing the stupid limiters) and it has plenty of power
Echo CS590 is the saw you want. I have one and abuse it. It has never let me down
Good review. Just bought a used one on facebook for $150. Awesome saw in all respects!
Mine has 18" bar though
Do a simple muffler mod on the the saw and you will be amazed at how much more power it has. I did on mine, and it’s an impressive little beast.
What mod did you do?
Leaks oil like a sieve. Look at the oil on table during your video shoot. Bought Echo saw about three years ago. Very first use , I saw oil everywhere I put it down after use. Ok if you are on a ranch with pastures. Unacceptable for home user with concrete patios and driveways - oil stains all over. Returned to vendor after first use. Vendor had no fix for this problem. Exchanged it for Stihl which does not have this problem. Downside of Stihl saw is difficulty in starting. Hence now I have invested in an electric chainsaw. Very pleased with performance - E-Go brand. Highly recommend it. Still have Stihl but hardly use it.
No, it never leaked unless I put the oil cap on wrong. Which is to say, not tight. That was one of the things that bothered me, "on tight" was too tight, or at least too tight for the cap, it eventually broke. But no, it never leaked oil, that oil is from elsewhere. As for the Stihls not starting easy, I hear that complaint from lots of people. I personally have no issue with that, always had good luck starting them.
Mine was brand new - different model # ? Cannot remember which one. Wasn’t the cap. Oil dripped from bottom while carrying around after use. Dealer said all chain saws leak and was no help. Hence first and last experience with echo chainsaw. Motor felt strong and capable. Now use Ego 55V cordless chain saw for home use. Excellent run time and cutting. Neighbor borrowed it the other day to cut a tree down in his front yard and could not believe that such chain saws were around.
Nice thorough review. Have you decided further on which saw you would buy when it is time for a replacement? I have around 40 hours on a Husqvarna 455. Nice all around saw for what I've needed so far.
+Patrick Wagz Haven't decided yet. A lot of these comments people have been leaving are making me think harder.
Well, the saw finally pissed me off one times too many...3 or 4 times in a row, I went to cut firewood, and for one reason or another, it wouldn't play ball. So I ended up getting a Stihl MS291. Nice saw so far.
Get rid of the can fuel. Mix your own with the echo oil.
If you are cutting 3-4 cords of wood a year you need a bigger saw. An echo Timberwolf would be perfect. I love echo for its simplicity and reliability. Keep the cs400 for limbing and lighter work. A 50-60cc saw will wear you out a lot faster. I have 4 saws to use depending on the situation. Hope this helps. G
very informative video. I'm looking into buying one I was originally looking at a Stihl ms 251 but this is a little cheaper and seems like quality I'm only 15 and this seems like a fit for me and my small lawn care company
Well, it IS quality, and not for nothing, but Echo gives a 2 year warrantee on there stuff when used commercially. So that's not bad...
I would get an MS250 over the 251 and they are $299 on sale now like every fall. The MS250 and this Echo are similar in quality they are a homeowner class saw not really meant for professional everyday use but work fine for most anything you are going to use them for. I would consider the Echo 590. Little more money but more saw they are $399 but see them cheaper then that all over online. Still not a professional saw but its a pretty damn good saw.
@@JesseLJohnson new stihls ms250 junk, no primer ball (difficult crank alot ) , oiler is inferior , crank / piston material thinner etc they redesigned them to be cheaper and are junk. older stihl different story , this echo beats them overall in long run for sure , and cranks easy all the time .
looking for bar recs.. i go thru about one a week..
i clear brush in the arizona desert professionally, broom, mesquite, creosote.. most of it dead and harrrrrd (sun baked arizona) and nasty tangles of canes. untidy cutting, kills the sprockets on weak oregon bars. don't think my boss is going to go for a sugihara.
why don't you adjust the chain properly? that chain has more sag than an 80 year old woman.
Did you pay attention to the video or these comments? I had the chain pre-loosened to save you the time of watching me getting it off the bar.
this Echo 40cc saw isn't any less powerful than any other professional 40cc saw. Have you ran a Husqvarna, Stihl or Dolmar in the same size? You won't notice much of any power difference. They all need muffler mods in order to get their full potential.
And you also know that you can run a stihl chain on this if you like Stihl chains so much? I have the CS 400 with an Oregon 16" bar with a Stihl Chain, muffler mod and it kicks azz
+mojo jojo I do have experience with the Stihls. I don't recall going down a bar size with them and still feeling like it's underpowered. But what you mentioned is interesting. I'll look into putting a still chain on it. I also have to get on that muffler mod. I've heard so much about it.
Just remember to adjust the carb before you do anything crazy with the muffler, did you end up doing the mods? Would like to get one for my dad, I'm not a Stihl fan anymore and I do pro tree service and firewood, Husqvarna is making a great product but not sure about theyre small saws..
Seth Watson I own a stihl, husky, echo and poulan and there is absolutely zero power difference from stihl, echo or husky in the same size. stop crying and run the saw. every single one of them needed a muffler mod and the tool free caps on the stihl suck, they break constantly.
Thanks. Interesting opinions. The flip caps on the Stihl is one of the things that I would be after. As far as the switch flipping up for off, I agree, not the best choice. On the plastic handlebar, also agreed, not the best. The saw I will buy will be above that, hopefully.
Have you had trouble changing chains like I mentioned?
+Seth Watson Stihl's "flippy caps" are often criticized for being clunky (they're a 1/4-turn system), but I like them. New Huskys also have flip caps, but they're just normal threaded caps, not 1/4 turn. Dolmar stuck with their "S" caps, but certainly don't eliminate them for that, they're great saws if you have a dealer nearby.
It's been a year since I last commented on this video but I just watched it again and wanted to comment on the getting the chain off the bar issue. I've actually never had that problem with my CS 400 but my little Husqvarna 235e does that all the time even with the bar shoved back as far as it will go it's still hard to get the chain off.
If you want a new saw I would recommend a Stihl 026pro or whatever the new model number is for that saw. Its a 50cc pro class saw. You can run a 16 to 20 inch bar. Perfect for pretty much anything a normal user would ever need. I paid $50 for my 026pro. Of course if you get a new one its probably going to be $500-$600 but if you look on Facebook Marketplace and auctions you can find some pretty good deals. I have a lot of saws and that is one I use a lot. I have a Makita DCS6421 that is an awesome saw too. They run $650-$750 but mine was a Home Depot rental tool and they sell them every couple years. I paid $250 for it from a guy who bought it as a HD rental. 64cc pro class magnesium case saw and you can put the 79cc top end on it if you want more power but the saw as is has plenty of power. I have 20 and 24 inch bars but I have seen people running as long as 36 inch but I wouldn't run over 28 inch without putting the 79cc top end on it. I like having a few saws though from small light saws to the medium duty like that 026pro to larger saws so no matter what I have enough saw for whatever I am doing. I actually came home with a Echo 330T top handle saw today. I bought a Husqvarna 142 and Stihl 009L at an auction a couple weeks ago for $45 for the pair that needed fuel lines and I didn't want to do it when my saw shop will do it for $15 or so per saw and while there he said he had that Echo he would sell me for what he had on the bill for fixing it. Somebody dropped it off about 2 years ago and never paid or picked it up so I got it for $40. Then I went to the Husqvarna dealer because I just got a brand new Redmax in the mail not sure what the model is same as the Husqvarna 439 or a rear handle version of the 435T top handle and the damn oil adjustment screw was broken in the box new so I took it in for warranty. Dude gave me a hard time probably because I bought it on Ebay from a dealer for $150 less then he sold the saw for so I just bought the new oiler for $20 and will put it in myself. I would have had to pay $25 to ship the saw back to the seller and I really like the light little thing. I think I might put a 12 inch bar on it in place of the 16 inch it came with and the seller said it had a 14 inch sure is a 16.
I have a Stihl MS 391and this thing is a beast. I had a Husqvarna 460 Rancher and it was a tough one but since I found the Stihl in the street and had it professionally serviced before I used it, it impressed me so much, I don't want to use anything but Stihl products. Today I was given an Echo Cs-440 that is he says is not working because a friend of his put straight gas in it, so I will get that one serviced and then will sell it and buy a Stihl back pack blower.
if u think it dosent have enough power then get a stihl ms 880 magnum , or something smaller stihl ms 290 farm boss great saw I've had one for jst abt 10 years now and never gave any trouble it's a unbelievable chainsaw. or a husqvarna 365 special which is another great saw but I gave it serious abuse for abt 8 year and the piston went in it but an excellent saw
how do you tell the model what year it was made I love my saw first echo I bought it at flea market and don't know model dam good saw
I'd take it to a dealer.
I only run non ethanol gas in my saws and pretty much all small engines. That is what most the problems people have with their saws. It degrades the fuel lines and gums up the carb. I try to always run them dry too before putting them up.
My poulan has got you beat. It has a never start switch. And it's apparently always choked.....
I have a small echo chainsaw a echo weed eater and an echo leaf blower. love em.
But I do hate the chainsaw fuel and bar oil caps. Apparently somewhere,? caps must have kept coming off.
what model stihl did you end up buying?
I got a MS291. Likin' it...
I found a place online "HLSupply. They have most small parts for these saws .
I've never had any issues with the caps, I tighten them finger tight and they don't leak, even being 20 years old, I will wipe off the caps ( fuel and oil ) before opening them, I've been through several chains and bars, but I get my money's worth out of them. I have a benchtop chain sharpener, it's a harbor freight model but it works great, the chains cut better than new, the sharpener sharpens the chisel as well as the gullet, just saying
Ive ran stihl all my life. I do have the cs-400 i bought off a friend of mine that used it once. I ran it a bit bored out the exhaust and threw the shitty spark arrester screen out, fine tuned the carb and it runs like a raped ape. Its a great cutting saw for small trees and brush and not bad to climb with. Shit that you dont need a big ole heavy saw for. But for what you are doing i would go bigger. Firewood logs i use my 044 with a 20 inch bar.
Do a muffler mod and limiter cap removal and you will be amazed at how much more power this saw has.
Also I reccomend using the canned fuel . Its already premixed and has zero ethanol and is 92 octane. Ethanol is not good for chainsaws or any two stroke engine
Your chain should be tight enough that you can still wiggle it a bit but should not be able to pull it off the bar even trying really hard. You are gonna either end up throwing the chain constantly or 86'ing the drive gear and brake
Did you ever work out the chain throwing problem?
I haven't. Even with the chain adjusted correctly, it still does it. I probably need to take it in and have it looked at. I don't recall if I mentioned it in the video, but that's one of the problems I've always had with tis saw. Seems like no matter how careful I am installing/tensioning the chain, it always loosens up very quickly. Even broken in chains.
Seth Watson dang man that's unfortunate. How many cuts do you get out of it before it comes off? I wonder if it has anything to do with the size of the bar nuts, are they 10mm?
The nuts are original to the saw. How often/when the chain comes off is entirely dependent on how handy my scrench is. If it's in my pocket, the chain will not come off. If I'm wayyy out in the woods with no scrench, 1st cut and it's off.
Seth Watson I know how that goes. I talked to a representative today and I think I am still going to go with the saw. I will update you and let you know if I have the same problem. That way you will know whether to take it to a saw shop or not.
TWICE as fast? Skeptical. But I'm willing to try. I'll see what I can do.
that chain tensioner gives me issues as well
I got a red flag when you said "chain comes off bar frequently" ( 11:15 ) -- that happened to me alot with my last echo 30 years ago and each time I had to grind down the chewed up Drive Links in order to get the chain to fit back into the bar groove. Never had that problem with Husqvarnas but will go for a Stihl next time.
i have owned several echo saws since 1976,(have a small sawmill setup) and never any problems with any of them, the BEST saw on the market in their price range. all it takes is a little preventative maintenance to keep them running!
That happens with smaller chain a lot easier if you don’t keep it tight.
It's a 400 it's a ground saw that can cut smaller wood rounds it's mostly for cutting off limbs and it does a great job doing it sounds like u expected this to do the work of a saw 3 sizes bigger lol
Finger tight only on the caps, Bar wrench only for saw if vibration causes the cap to over tighten.The chain is proper for the size of saw...your saw couldn't turn a larger 3/8 size chain.
Nope. If finger tightened only, the oil will leak out. Ask me how I know that.
I just bought CS 400 and finger tight oil cap and no leaks so far ...
New CS 4010 replaced CS 400 and has diff caps ...
Some people's finger tight isnt as strong as others
24 a gallon a trade off for not mixing ? You gotta be joking right
Nope, it's all about convenience VS cost. For the amount I use the saw lately, (not much), I don't have to mix gas, or worry that it's more than a month old. There is no alcohol in it, so it'll keep years. They advertise 2. So it's always ready to go, and I don't have to worry about it. To clean a carb that's been screwed up by that alcohol gas costs more than 24 bucks.
Now, if I went to buck up a grapple load, I would switch to pump gas for that.
Go to a gas station that has premium fuel without ethanol. Mix the oil in and your good. If you think it’s getting old just put the mixed gas in your lawnmower and mix a new batch.
Nope. For the amount I use it, (not much) it's worth it. A gallon lasts all year, and what does a carb clean cost? More than 24 bucks. Gas stations around here aren't allowed to sell non-ethanol gas. Otherwise I would do just that.
@@sethwatson8952 carb rebuild kit costs 5-12 dollars and anyone can do so. I use whatever mix is at the store I'm getting fuel at and use 89-93 octane. For a fuel preservative I use 1 tbsp of marvel mystery oil per gallon which removes all water, ethanol, alcohol and anything else but my gas mix keeps for 5 years while also removing deposits in the entire fuel system in any engine plus removing carbon build up. Chain throwing is user error along with issues removing it from the bar and saw, oil cap breaking is tightening too much plain and simple. As far as power not being there, every saw out there has restrictions in the air and fuel flow along with exhaust. I own a Stihl 461 and I've modded it as far as you can without getting into porting the cylinder. California and Germany place emmision restrictions on all engines of any type but especially 2 stroke engines. I've opened my muffler a lot, removed the baffle, and cut a lot of plastic out of my air box to allow clean cold air in and turned out the h screw on the carb to allow more fuel in. The next step is porting which involves cutting the edges of the transfer ports inside the cylinder. This will give a less steep angle for the fuel air mixture to pass over allowing for less friction and a smoother transferring of the mixture from the bottom of the cylinder to the top where the combustion chamber is. Hope this all helps, btw bottle of mmo is $3-6 at Walmart depending on what size you get, I use it in everything I have that is gasoline powered and it makes and world of difference
@@ianmartin7283 See, that's the thing...I don't want to do all those things. I just want to pull the rope and cut. I don't feel comfortable messing with carbs. If MMO is working great for you, that's great, but you've made some pretty lofty claims about something that has "mystery" right on the bottle. As far as the oil cap breaking, yes, obviously it's over tightening. BUT, you're forced to do so. If you don't tighten to that point, the oil will piss out on the floor. Ask me how I know. I do beg to differ on that removing the chain is user error. I know how to take off a chain. This saw is literally the only one I've ever had trouble doing that with.
Chain is pretttttty lose. Just got one for xmas. Sep 2019 Model. CS400 nice video.
Thank you. Yes, as I said in the video, it's loose on purpose so you didn't have to waste time watching me take it off. It was loose to the point of being able to be taken off.
Sounds like a lot of personal opinions on the issues side, not actual. I never had an issue changing a chain. In fact I had a chain last 10 hours of non stop cutting untill it was dull enough for me to change it. You should have just bought a $500 Stihl instead of trying to make a $300 echo fit the bill. You have a 16" bar and should have no power issues. I have a 16" and 18" bar. I will admit that the 18" bar robs a little bit of power but still handles well. I've beat the living hell out of my cs400 for 3 years cutting huge oaks. Oaks so big I need an 18" bar just to get through both sides. Maybe your expectations were a little high? Good luck with the new Stihl you get, just make sure to get a higher grade as their home owner stuff is garbage.
Well, yeah, the review is about my personal experiences, not facts. YMMV. I believe I mentioned in the review, I needed a saw now, and the Stihl dealer was closed, so Echo it was...
Stihl homeowner saws aren't garbage. They are alright. However Husqvarna homeowner saws I might consider them garbage. The best "farm and ranch" class saw I believe is the Echo 590. I have Stihl, Husqvarna, Makita, Echo, Redmax, John Deere, and a throwaway Homelite saw. I have saws that range from homeowner class to pro class up to 80cc from top handle saws to saws with 28-36 inch bars. The Stihl 017 and MS250 are both homeowner grade saws and I own and use both quite a bit. The saws I have used most lately are probably my Stihl 026pro, Makita DCS6421, and my Redmax whatever model it is its just a red Husqvarna and its a rear handle version of the top handle 435T. I just got an Echo 330T top handle saw today too I will probably be running the next couple days.
NOTICE the bar & chain he complains about is NOT ECHO!!
it is replaced with Oregon bar & chain. Oregan bar & chain are for SOFT WOOD ONLY!!
the ECHO chain & bar costs more, but is much stronger quality, designed to gut hard wood and last longer!!
My echo cs-400 CUT 4 houses out of the DERECHO
140 MPH WINDS.
cut every day for over a week.
ECHO BAR & CHAIN HELD UP
JUST FINE CUTTING ALL HARDWOOD & 1 PINE TREE.
Bar
That was the original bar the saw came with when I bought it new. It was on there since day one. I seriously doubt that an echo bar would have made a difference...
you have probably figured it out by now but you can adjust the Jets open them just a hair and it'll bring that stall right to life also on your chain issue if you're having a grind on them all the time keep it out of the dirt and it sounds like your balls too heavy I prefer automatic transmission fluid to high mileage type just a cheap Walmart brand because the Walmart brand oils have lots of detergents in them to keep things clean and the lubrication is not so thick that the sawdust comes up in it I have prefer my Husqvarna after Decades of service it finally front Leo ring in the Jog and seeing as my fathers 80 years old I got to heat his house with firewood I ain't got time to mess with it but my old Husqvarna s77 the beach Warrior I got to get a call for it and then once I get that but yeah I'll be back in using that but the cs402 great little saw a man you are look like yours is a bit older put a new carb on it so I it will run a whole lot different
The issue with the chain not coming off the bar, is the chain needs to be replaced, because it had come off the bar, (because it was too loose), and the sprocket drive, (grinding on the chain), ruined it.
Not sure the chain is ruined. It will ride in the slot fine, and come up out of the slot. It's just hard to get it to flip over the bar at the tip. A brand new chain will do the same thing. I understand how a loose chain can come off the bar under load. But, there seems to be nothing I can do to prevent the chain from loosening, and quickly. No matter how tight the chain is at the start. No matter how tight I reef the nuts holding the bar.
Come to think of it, there is a fair amount of up and down plat at the end of the bar when loose. When I tighten the chain, I lift up on the end of the bar. Sp that should help you if you're cutting with the bottom of the bar. However, I frequently cut with the top of the bar, which would force the bar to sag, loosening the chain. That could be the problem...
i run a 385xp husqvarna ive had smaller saws and just really dislike under powerred saws i usally only cut 16 to 20 inch wood. 40 cc is just way to small in my opinon the wood your cutting is a 50cc to 55cc saw needed
I have a bunch of saws. I like to run my smaller saws quite a bit though just because they are so light. I still have a Husqvarna 372xp, Makita DCS6421, Stihl MS440 and some others though that get plenty of use but I have a Husqvarna 439 I really like that is just a rear handle version of the 435T top handle saw have a couple other small light saws too but the one I use most is probably my 026pro Stihl that is a 50cc pro saw. Think it weighs like 12lb with bar and chain and fueled up so its not as heavy as my bigger saws but still plenty of power for most jobs. When I can get away with a small saw I always do though but most my small saws aren't homeowner saws they are at least "farm and ranch" if they aren't a pro saw. I have a couple Stihl and Echo top handle saws too that I really like running. I don't climb trees with them either lol. Nice to have a small saw to strap to the ATV or in the SxS to cleanup trails so I don't have to lug around a 15lb or heavier saw with a bar longer then my ATV is wide. I have climbed up in some trees or on ladder too and I sure don't want to lug more then a 6-9lb saw with me to do that work.
Mines chain only get lose when bar oil is low or empty but neva when full
BEWARE Stihl's "No Tool" caps! God, they can be a PAIN!
I like them. A couple new Husqvarna saws I have also have similar caps too that I like more. The caps on my Makita DCS6421 you can't take them off without a tool its kinda a pain in the ass only thing I don't really like about that saw. My older Stihls, Husqvarna, John Deere, and my Echo saws I can take the caps off without a tool.
I disagree with your statement that you would buy a couple of poulan saws.
Apparently you've never tried to start one or keep it running.
It wears out your ever wanting another one real quick.
poulan is Total garbage
Jeff Bingaman I bought a new Poulan 15 years ago at Walmart, and it has never let me down. I have 3 of them and also 2 Stihl saws. They all are reliable. Never put ethanol gas in any small engine. That’s just stupid.
can we get a better side cover that you mentioned for our saws
Not sure what you mean...
These saws cut about twice as fast when the muff is opened up and tuned right, if you haven't pulled the limiter caps and tuned right your saw will be lean and way down on power also. You better be buying a high priced pro Stihl saw, their lower models are junk compared to Echo
I'VE GOT ONE GREAT CHAINSAW..I'm A ECHO...MAN...NO PROBLEM...ECHO IS BETTER THEN ANY STIHL I'VE EVER HAD....
i have had echo saws for 45 years (manage 75 acres of woods) 1st saw was a 510, and you could not kill it! all my other echo saws have been just as reliable.
I love the idea of paying $24 a gallon. Because it happens so often that I accidentally mix two little bottles of oil to one gallon of gasoline instead of one.
I'm like.....did I just put that bottle of oil in this one gallon can or does it need another one.
And then I'm like OMG 😵 I just put two little bottles of oil in one gallon of gasoline.
So I start over and it costs me like I don't know....$10.....😲
And I bought a two gallon can and then put another gallon of gasoline in it. Then throw it away because hot dang. I can buy premix for $24 a gallon. Whoo dang.
LOL, I can't tell if you're being sarcastic or not...
Stay away from sharp objects and flammable liquids.😂😂🍻
where do you get the pre mixed gas with no ethanol? Link?
No need for a link. It should be available locally, at any well stocked hardware store, power equipment place, or even Home Depot and Lowes. It's very common to find around here, with many brands now. Comes in quarts, gallons, 5 gallons.
mojo jojo /// There's this thing called Google where you can search for stuff.... Talk about lazy. Who provided you with the link to get to YT?
Literally any saw shop or hardware store or Walmart. If you don't mind paying double what it cost to just go to the gas station and buy you're own gas to mix. Lot of gas stations here sell non ethanol gas. I did buy a bunch of premixed gas at Walmart last year though because now in the fall they put all the chainsaw and small engine type stuff on clearance so I got a case or more of premixed gas at half price. I need to go back now to buy up some more spark plugs and maybe some more of that gas if they still have it.
JONSERED
6 years
Made by husqvarna
@@jimburns1666 Half the saws out there are owned by Husqvarna or their parent company. From Redmax, Jonsered, Poulan, pretty sure McCulloch is now owned by them too and I have heard they made the Craftsman saws well pretty sure Poulan made or makes those Craftsman saws. They also make the Remington saws from what I have been told. Probably why Tractor Supply sells Husqvarna, Poulan, and Remington saws. Redmax and Jonsered are just red Husqvarna. I have a Redmax its the same saw as a Husqvarna 439 or a rear handle version of the 435T top handle saw. The local Jonsered dealer closed last year. Said Jonsered merged with Redmax as to why he was closing I don't know but they don't seem to sell Jonsered anywhere anymore. Tractor Supply used to but it was only the homeowner and farm saws like the Husqvarna they have now. I heard Menards I think was supposed to be carrying them I heard they carry Efco too but sure they are just homeowner saws too like all the big box stores sell if you want a good pro saw you have to go to an actual dealer or order online. Home Depot does have the pro Echo though but never seen them in store have to order them and they sell Makita but I don't think I ever seen them in store have to order or get one of the rental ones when they sell them like my DCS6421 that was one of their rentals I got for 1/3 what they go for new. Hell of a saw. Little heavy it seems for a 64cc saw but that thing rips. Might buy a 79cc OE top end to put on it should be the same weight with more power. As is though I think its 4.7hp probably be 6hp or so with the bigger top end. I have a Husqvarna 372xp already though that has 5.7hp I believe so probably don't need to spend the money just use the other saw I own already. Or the MS440 I have.
That is a homeowner grade saw it isn't a pro saw. Its a decent saw all the normal user would need but I see you said it was a pro saw when talking about it lacking power. It isn't a pro saw.
Hi
I love TH-cam for videos like yours. Very helpful - overall. But I must say that I couldn't disagree more with your "gripes" with this saw. I have had mine for 10 years now and haven't experienced ANY of the issues with things breaking (and then having to try to find parts). ZERO.
Changing chains is EASY! Tightening is EASY. And I am no pro. I am Just A GUY.
My ONLY bitch is adding Gear Oil. The handle is over the whole where you add it and inevitable, I spill gear oil and make a nasty mess.
I hope things have eased up and that you chain saw is working more reliably.
- Dave Pass
Glad you liked it, and that you like your saw. As gar as mine, its long gone, finally wore out its welcome. But i do like the new one much better, a stihl.
@@sethwatson8952 what your +'s about the Stihl?
@@davidpass7184 well, I’m lovin those tool less caps, and the outboard sprocket, mostly. i will admit that I like the echo on/off switch better, but no regrets.
I did buy 2 new dosen't work
As your showing us, your chain is Not anywhere close to being tight enough. also you must tighten the two bar bolts fairly tight.
Did you pay attention? Obviously NOT. I stated right in the video that the bolts were pre-loosened, to save you the time of watching me loosen them.
You need to explain yourself on the bigger chain. Have you hot a 3/8 pitch or .325
Do you have a semi chisel or full chisel tooth. If it is to small as you put it then it us your fault and you bought the wrong saw.... they do nit put a .325 on a homeowner saw. Get rid of that safety chain on there and get a semi chisel chain but then you will complain because you will mot have enough power to cut the wood because your teeth are taking too big of a bite...
Call it a choke because it is a choke!!
Same issue with the bar and chain difficulty on any saw with the clutch on the outside. Worst design ever.
An entire review video and not once trying to start it, run it or using it. Not a word about the brake...smh
Yeah, I didn't mention the brake....I never had an issue with it. But the video was never about running it.
Seth Watson that’s usually what a review entails like everyone else’s reviews
@@MowersNBlowers so, what would you expect to gain from seeing me run it? I'll tell you though, what I'd get is a while bunch of stupid comments from guys who've never run one before on how they don't like how I'm running it. All set with that.
This chain is ridiculously loose. Not the saws fault for the chain coming off.
LOL, interesting that even though I say right in the video that I did that on purpose to reduce the time it took me to get the chain off in the video, everyone continues to mention it. No kidding, you can't actually run the saw with a chain that loose?
You mix parts ,that’s all ,are don’t with the unit specification.
Te chain is no the correct one.
Adjust your chain before you do a video. Echo makes a very quality chain saw. If your chain is loose the teeth and rakers can not let your saw work as it should.
You did not watch the video, did you?
Billed as a pro saw? $300 for a pro saw? lol. You're a good guy, and it's not a bad saw (i have one), but you're barking up the wrong tree. You need a bigger saw.
echo is better than any sthil....
stihl #1 chain saw of all time
Я из Украини.Уменя звездочка полетела и нигде немогу найти ее к CS-400
+oleg koi Wasn't there a way to translate stuff here? I don't speak whatever that is. Russian?
+Seth Watson I speak enough Russian to get by. He is saying that he is from Ukraine. He has a starfly(?) but he can't find your cs400 model anywhere. I guess Ukraine doesn't import Echos
Ok, thanks. I know nothing about what they have in the Ukraine...
learn how to tune you're saw there's ton of video's on how to tune a chainsaw.
Yeah....it's on my (very long) list of things to do. For the amount I'm using a chainsaw right now, there's other more important things.
Its not worth the tooless chain adustment.
Husqvarnia oiler is junk
I have had bad luck with Husqvarna. I have a brand new saw I got in the mail Monday and the damn oiler was broke in the box. The screw to adjust the bar oil was busted off in the box and the dealer gave me a hard time about the warranty so I just ordered a new oiler. It would have cost the same to ship the saw back so I just bought the part.
STIHL ALL THE WAY!!