Question:
Tool-less chain tensioner on PP4218AVX.
I recently purchased a chainsaw, Serial # 12068N00039-3 from Lowes. I've used it on 4 occasions to buck some trees that fell during a storm.
The saw performed well for the first few occasions (I'd say maybe 15 cuts through 4"-14" branches and trunks.
The last few times I've used the saw, however, I find myself spending more time re-tensioning the chain than I do cutting wood.
After doing some research, I've found that this seems to be a fairly common problem with this tool-less chain tensioning system.
On this site, I've found a number of posts (referenced below) wherein a representative indicated that Husq would be happy to replace the tool-less clutch-cover with a more traditional two-nut cover.
As suggested in one of these posts, I called the 800 number for customer service, expecting, as per the information on this site, that I would be able to receive a free two-nut clutch-cover to replace the cover that includes a tensioning system that I would consider inherently faulty and potentially unsafe (particularly given the lack of a substantial chain-catcher).
When I spoke to the CS rep, I was told that I would need to provide proof of purchase that verified that I had purchased the product within the past 30 days in order to receive a free replacement. Otherwise, I would have to pay $23.39 to get the part.
First, I am unable to find my original receipt.
Second, I'm fairly sure that I purchased the saw closer to 6-8 weeks ago, rather than within 30 days.
Third, I've used it far less than one could conceivably use it within 30 days, and I feel that if I had used the saw more frequently within the first month, that I would have surely discovered this problem sooner, but I am now being asked to pay $24 to replace a poorly engineered part simply because I didn't use the saw frequently enough within the first few weeks.
Unable to justify spending any more time or money on this saw, I went out yesterday and bought a Husqvarna 455 Rancher (don't worry, I'll keep track of the receipt), but it would be nice to have a functional back-up saw, and to feel like I didn't completely waste $200 (including spare chains, 40:1 oil, bar & chain oil, etc) on something I used 4 times.
So, I guess in the way of a question, I'll ask: Is it true that if a) I can't find my receipt and/or b) I purchased this saw more than 30 days ago, that I'll have to pay to get a different tensioning system?