Introducció
This manual provides essential information for the proper installation, operation, and maintenance of your Husqvarna FT-280-68 18-inch Chainsaw Guide Bar. This professional sprocket-nose bar is designed for small to medium-sized commercial saws and is lighter and less expensive than solid counterparts. The sprocket-nose tip is secured with four rivets. This bar is designed for a 68 drive link 3/8-inch pitch x .050 gauge chainsaw chain. Adhering to these instructions will help ensure safe and efficient use, extending the lifespan of your equipment.
Always refer to your chainsaw's main instruction manual for specific safety warnings and operational procedures before performing any maintenance or installation.

Figure 1: Husqvarna FT-280-68 18-inch Chainsaw Guide Bar.
Configuració i instal·lació
Proper installation of the guide bar is crucial for safe and effective chainsaw operation. Always ensure the chainsaw is turned off, the spark plug cap is removed (for gasoline models), or the battery is removed (for electric models) before beginning any installation or maintenance.
- Prepareu la motoserra: Place the chainsaw on a stable, flat surface. Engage the chain brake. Remove the clutch cover and the old guide bar and chain if applicable.
- Neteja de la zona de muntatge: Thoroughly clean any sawdust, debris, or oil residue from the guide bar mounting area on the chainsaw. Ensure the oil holes are clear.
- Install the New Guide Bar: Slide the new Husqvarna FT-280-68 guide bar onto the mounting studs. Ensure the bar's groove aligns with the drive sprocket.
- Instal·leu la cadena: Carefully place the chainsaw chain into the guide bar groove, ensuring the cutting edges are facing the correct direction. Loop the chain around the drive sprocket.
- Reattach Clutch Cover: Replace the clutch cover, but do not fully tighten the nuts yet.
- Ajustar la tensió de la cadena: Using the chain tensioning screw, adjust the chain tension. The chain should be snug against the guide bar but still able to be pulled freely by hand. It should not sag on the underside of the bar.
- Tighten Clutch Cover: Un cop la tensió de la cadena sigui correcta, estrenyeu completament les femelles de la coberta de l'embragatge.
- Comprovació final: Manually rotate the chain to ensure it moves freely and is properly seated in the guide bar groove.
Video: Guide on how to find your chainsaw bar length, which is essential for selecting the correct replacement bar and chain.
Vídeo: Un overview of Husqvarna guide bars, discussing their features and benefits for various chainsaw applications.
Instruccions de funcionament
The guide bar works in conjunction with the chainsaw chain to perform cutting tasks. Always prioritize safety and wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE), including a helmet, eye protection, hearing protection, gloves, and chainsaw protective trousers.
- Lubricació: Ensure the chainsaw's oil reservoir is filled with appropriate bar and chain oil. The guide bar relies on continuous lubrication to reduce friction and heat during operation.
- Tècnica de tall: Always maintain a firm grip on the chainsaw with both hands. Avoid cutting with the tip of the guide bar to prevent kickback. Plan your cuts to avoid pinching the guide bar in the wood.
- Afilat de la cadena: A sharp chain is essential for efficient and safe cutting. A dull chain will cause the chainsaw to work harder, produce fine sawdust instead of chips, and can lead to uneven cuts or increased wear on the guide bar.
Manteniment
Regular maintenance of your guide bar will prolong its life and ensure optimal cutting performance.
- Clean the Guide Bar Groove: After each use, clean the guide bar groove to remove sawdust and debris. This ensures proper chain movement and oil flow.
- Check for Burrs: Inspect the edges of the guide bar for burrs, which can form from friction. File them smooth with a flat file to prevent chain binding.
- Flip the Guide Bar: To promote even wear, flip the guide bar periodically (e.g., every time you sharpen or replace the chain). This helps distribute wear across both sides of the bar.
- Sprocket Nose Lubrication: If your guide bar has a sprocket nose (like the FT-280-68), ensure it is regularly lubricated using a grease gun designed for guide bar tips. This reduces friction and extends the life of the sprocket.
- Inspecció de la cadena: Regularly inspect the chain for damage, dullness, or stretching. Replace the chain when necessary.

Figure 2: Detail of the Husqvarna FT-280-68 guide bar tail, showing specifications and mounting holes for proper alignment.

Figure 3: Close-up of the Husqvarna FT-280-68 guide bar's sprocket nose, illustrating the tip and chain path for smooth operation.
Resolució de problemes
If you encounter issues with your chainsaw's cutting performance, the guide bar or chain may be the cause. Here are some common problems and solutions:
- Uneven or Curved Cuts: This often indicates uneven wear on the guide bar or a dull chain, particularly if one side of the chain is duller than the other. Inspect the guide bar for sharp edges or excessive wear on one side. Sharpen the chain evenly or replace the guide bar if wear is significant.
- Chain Derailing: This can be caused by incorrect chain tension (too loose), a worn guide bar groove, or a damaged chain. Check and adjust chain tension. Inspect the guide bar groove for widening or damage. Replace the chain if links are bent or damaged.
- Excessive Heat or Smoke from Bar: Insufficient lubrication or a dull chain can cause this. Ensure the oiler is functioning correctly and the oil reservoir is full. Sharpen or replace the chain.
Vídeo: Un review of the Husqvarna X-Force chainsaw bar, discussing its performance and how to identify when a bar is worn out, often indicated by uneven cutting patterns.
Especificacions
| Característica | Detall |
|---|---|
| Número de model | FT-280-68 (also known as 599999868) |
| Longitud | 18 polzades |
| Chain Compatibility | 68 drive link, 3/8-inch pitch x .050 gauge |
| Tipus | Sprocket-nose |
| Fabricant | Husqvarna |
| Pes de l'article | 2 lliures |
Garantia i Suport
For warranty information or technical support regarding your Husqvarna FT-280-68 18-inch Chainsaw Guide Bar, please refer to the documentation provided with your original chainsaw purchase or contact Husqvarna customer service directly. Keep your proof of purchase for any warranty claims.





