Husqvarna Starter Pawl for 372XP and 390XP

This Husqvarna starter pawl fits the 372XP and 390XP chainsaws. If the starter rope pulls but the engine does not turn, a worn or broken pawl is a common cause and an easy fix.

Symptoms of a bad pawl

The pawls are small spring-loaded catches on the flywheel side that the starter pulley grabs when you pull the cord. When they wear, break or stick with gunk, the starter spins freely and the engine does not turn over. Big saws like the 372XP and 390XP put a lot of load on them, so they do wear.

Before replacing, check that the pawl is not just stuck with sawdust and oil. If it is rounded off, cracked or missing, replace it, and the spring if needed.

Keeping a couple of pawls and springs in the saw kit is cheap insurance on big saws that see daily use. A spare pawl takes minutes to fit at the truck and can save a trip back to the shop or a dealer visit in the middle of a job.

Fitting tips

Remove the starter cover, clean the area and inspect the flywheel. Fit the new pawl and spring so it moves freely and returns. Reinstall the starter and pull gently to check it catches before starting the saw.

If you are not comfortable working on the saw, have a dealer do it. Always run the saw with chaps, eye and hearing protection, and a helmet. See other power equipment parts.