Husqvarna 353 v 545

[TGB]

Anyone run a 353 and now running a 545? Your thoughts on the two saws please..?

 

I know the differences on paper and I know there's hardly a new 353 to be had... but there are a few. I also now the 545 runs cleaner, (and I know some are bound to suggest a 550XP, as they're not much more). Price is broadly similar for the three.

[Tractor62]

I used to run a 353 but changed to a 550xp a little while ago and much as I liked my 353 I wouldn't go back. The only thing slightly in the 353s favour is that it seemed to have more low end torque but I recon the 550 more than makes up for that with its top end power (something I'm not sure the 545 would do without the rev boost). In short they're both decent saws and you shouldn't be dissapointed with either

[Hodge]

I know where there is a few 353s stashed and for sale:)

 

 

Sent from Hodge's eye phone using the new fancy Arbtalk Mobile App:)

[TGB]

Yep, I'm sure I could get one if I hurry. But I don't wish to make haste my waste. Thanks for the prompt replies so far.

 

Perhaps a little more info should have been included in the initial post. Saw in this case to be used for mixture of duties. General coppice work, some felling, (various, as and when necessary) occasional firewood & charcoal processing.

[spudulike]

Only run a 353 once and it seemed pretty lame compared to the 346XP, no experience of the 543 though!

[Chris Sheppard]

I had an early 353 as my main thinning saw for years and really rated it. Compared to the orange side 346's, I preffered it as it was less revvy but with a bit more bottom end.

 

The later ones seemed to be less good though.

 

I've not used a 545, but imagine it to be much like a 550 but less aggressive.

 

I've been on my 550 most of today after not using it much for a while and forgot just how great it is. Been thinning some fairly heavy branched Ash/Oak/Sycamore with it and it just rips.

[TGB]

Anyone else used the Husky 545?

[TGB]

Bump and new question.

 

I know on the 353, it's a good idea to have the rubber carb boot & metal clip, instead of the plastic original.

 

Was this mod ever done by Husky on new but later 353s? As I don't wish to fork out £130+ extra, nor do I want to strip a new saw to fit the kit.

 

If the later batches of 353s were fixed/redesigned, then I'll be hunting one down. If not the 545 might be cheaper in the long run, (even if it's lost the 353's low end grunt).

Edited April 19, 2013 by TGB