I grabbed a 550xp mark 2 this year and i could not be happier. the power and speed this saw has is un matched by any saw in its class. very easy starting and rips with an 18" bar. i have not even tried my 20" bar yet since i havnt really needed it. the new x cut chains are also great. very happy with this saw for pretty much the same reasons listed in this video.
Awesome review my friend. The clarity/quality of the pics are amazing. I purchased a 4910 based on your comparison to the 501. I did buy the aluminum 501 handle and grip though...
It suck that husqvarna didnt implement smart start to help with starting the saw. That feature would be nice. Allthough only 50cc so its no task to crank the engine over i guess.
Yes 501p is a really nice saw but 550 will cut circles around it. I have one and love it for lightweight, but grabbed my makita ea5000p 18 in 3/8 chain made it look like a toy. I have a 550xp mkII w 3/8 on it 18 in makita vs husqvarna 550xp I almost gotta say I think the makita will eat it up. And to new buyers the 550 and 545 dont have comp release but saw starts so fast you wont mind. If you get a deal on the 545 get it. Wicked little saw!!!
They announced some running changes on the 562XP. The biggest change is going to a better sealing air filter set up like they are using on the new 545, 550XP and 572XP. This change is actually backwards compatible and available in a kit from Husqvarna. So far they are just making the changes and not actually redesigning it like they did with the 550XP and 545.
I considered the 550 XP Mark II when I was looking to purchase a chainsaw until I learned it had an auto-tune carburetor. I disagree with your opinions on electronic carburetors. Between Stihl and Husqvarna the vast majority of complaints are in regards to these electronic carburetors. And there is a vast plethora of negative reviews. They sound good in theory until you are the one experiencing problems. Conventional carburetors don't have to be constantly tweaked like you make it sound. Once properly tuned they run as should and they have the advantage of being able to be tuned in the field by the operator if needed. If an auto-tune carburetor malfunctions in the field it has to go to a shop. They are very expensive to replace as well, which seems to be the norm with a bad one. The sales of Stihl and Husqvarna are dropping as a result and Echo for one is excelling because they are wise enough to see what is happening. In addition Stihl and Husqvarna have been earning a bad reputation for not standing behind their warranties on these saws. I for one will pass on buying any chainsaw with an electronic carburetor. Give me an Echo or Dolmar (Makita) instead.
We have owned Autotune saws for over 5 years. I have some that get used regularly and some that sit for months at a time. No issues starting them, no issues with anything really related to Autotune. The issues with the saws from Stihl is that they are basically using first generation Husqvarna Autotune on them while Husqvanra has advanced theirs considerably in the past 10+ years that it has been in use. The issues with the first version of the 550XP were blamed at times on Autotune by many people because that was the easy scape goat, but the actual issues were from dirt ingestion. This is why Husqvarna spent so much time redesigning the air filtration system on the 550XP Mark II, 545 Mark II, and the 572XP when it was released. Again, not an Autotune issue. The original 562XP saws and some of the 545 saws had issues with the crankcase gasket blowing out between the case halves by the oil tank. Not an Autotune issue, but because the saw would eventually run lean enough that Autotune couldn't compensate for it, Autotune was blamed. The older 562XP saws also had an issue with crank bearing seals leaking. Again, not Autotune, but because the symptoms came from running lean it was blamed on Autotune. I have seen original 550XP saws come in for repairs that were being used and abused by Asplundh with over 1,000 hrs of run time on them! And that is not an estimate of hours because the Autotune module records all that data. And when I say "repairs" it is usually broken recoil ropes or starter housings, damage from falling out of a tree, or some other repair unrelated to the carb or Autotune just like with the non Autotune saws that they use. My point is, if you actually try an Autotune saw and run one the way it is supposed to be ran and start it the way the manufacturer tells you to start it when it's cold and when it is hot, you get more power out of them and no more issues than you would get from a saw without Autotune. Saying that the sales of Husqvarna and Stihl are dropping because of their saws having Autotune or M-Tronic is a bit of a reach......... Especially when Husqvarna was set to start a promotion on Sept. on their XP saws and had to push it back til October because they were running low on inventory. If you are cutting with a saw with a regular carb in say Iowa and then take the same saw to Denver, Co you will have to adjust it just because of the altitude change. AutoTune does it for you. If your air filter gets dirty you either have to replace the air filter right away, or adjust the carb to compensate. Autotune does that automatically. If a regular carb didn't have to be adjusted that often to maintain peak performance, then why is everyone having such a big deal about limiter caps? And just because a saw with a regular style carb starts and runs doesn't mean it's running strongly as it should or could. But with an Autotune saw you simply let it warm up and it will recalibrate for the condition of the fuel, air filter, temperature, altitude, etc and allow the saw to run at optimal performance. Saying that a conventional carb can be tweaked in the field by the operator is not actually an advantage since the operator will have to stop and get out screw drivers to make adjustments, and then get back to work. This is the whole point of the Autotune carbs, they adjust themselves constantly to allow the saw to run at top performance without having to stop cutting. As for Echo, they have at least one saw outside of North America that has something similar to Autotune on it. They know that they are going to be forced to go that route or EFI eventually to meet emission standards. Now, don't get me wrong I like the Echo power equipment and think they have done some really good stuff with their saws and their blowers lately, but next time you see a big tree company like Asplundh or Davey Tree Company out working, count how many Husqvarna's or Stihl's they are using and then see if you can spot any Echo saws. All that being said, we do appreciate you taking the time to comment. It's always good to hear from viewers that actually watched the videos. What saw did you end up purchasing when you were shopping for a new one?
@@EshlemaniaTV Wow! I appreciate your reply. You have made a very strong argument in favor of auto-tune carburetor equipped chainsaws with your in depth response. Primarily so for Husqvarna, which would be my brand of choice over Stihl as I feel Stihl quality is not like it once was. I purchased an Echo 620P w/24" bar and chain. It has been nothing but superb straight from the box to broken in. Excellent torque and power, starts easily and reliably. I recently tached it now that the saw is broke in. The saw hit all the rpm parameters perfectly as listed in the owners manual as set so I didn't have to adjust a thing. I also bought a 501P w/20" bar and chain. It's not reaching it's full potential yet in regards to max rpms but it's basically a brand new saw yet. However it has been just as impressive as the 620P, just in a smaller saw. Between the 620P and 501P I purchased a Husqvarna 440e. The version with the bar nut, not the tool-less one. Straight from the box it started perfectly, but would not idle without shutting off. I had to tweak the idle jet with the scrench. That solved the problem, but then it caused the saw to bog upon acceleration. I had to purchase a jet screw tool kit so I could adjust the L and H jets. I finally got it adjusted to where it operates as should. But one thing is for certain. Husqvarna's rpm specs in the owners manual are off. The saw wouldn't run right or at all when I adjusted to them. I had to go by ear while keeping it as close to the specs as possible. I may give a 550XP Mark II an honest try in the future, I love chainsaws, but I need another one like I need another hole in my head. Lol! I don't baby my saws, but in the same token I don't abuse them either. I run sharp chains and clean and maintain them after every use. I run pump gas mixed with Formula K2 oil and Stabil when doing volume cutting. For storage and making a few cuts I use TruFuel or Husqvarna's version.
The big issue with Stihl's M-tronic set up is that it is actually Husqvarna technology that they are trying to adapt and make their own, so it as a lot of little kinks to be worked out yet. But in time I'm sure it will be more reliable and they will have better dealer support. You definitely didn't go wrong with the 620P from Echo. It is a good strong reliable saw! The 501P is also a good saw, but for some reason it just seems to get lost in the shuffle here in our area and doesn't sell as well. It is one of those saws that people seem to pass over because the 590 Timberwolf is a lower price, and the 620P is more powerful. This is one of the big issues with having so many models to choose from these days.
Just jumping in here on the conversation. You should give the 550 a try. It is a different kind of cutting, the cutting comes from the high rpm's and a sharp chain which should always be standard equipment on any saw. I have been using mine for 2 years and find it is the saw I go to most. Hey, there is more than one way to skin a cat and if you like what you like, go with it. I think the auto tunes are where it's at but, just my opinion. Good luck with the Echo. I would like to try one of the 620'same someday. They have a good rep.
I have been running Stihl saws for up to 25yrs. Non Electronic Carbs. With NO Problems !! These Electronic Carbs is a BIG Marketing Venture to sell more saws ! These two big companys are the only ones doing it !!! We will see if the other ones will be coming out with the Electronics ! Murpheys Law, Just to more to go wrong plain and simple !!!
Nice vid, I had 2 stihl 026 and loved them. Both run great until I fell a tree on one. The other still run great after 25 year of cutting firewood. Then I bought the new 261C M and expected it to bee as good as the other two. It was not. After 3 years of cutting firewood 261 broke down with crankshaftfailure. Stihl told me I was to blame not using the Stihl motomix oil. All these years I mix shell oil and gas 2%. That was not good enough for Stihl 261 Stihl told me. Not happy with Stihl 261 and Stihl-service anymore. No more Stihl for me....
Don't know anyone that buys an Autotune saw is carrying a computer with them to the woods. But nearly everyone that buys a saw with a regular carb is carrying screwdrivers into the woods because they are planning on having issues where they will have to adjust the carb on their saw.
dude the auto tune rocks! i was skeptical at first. went on quite a few jobs with mine this year various altitudes and saw ran phenomenal every time. my other saws are just sitting because i have no need. try it, they got a 3yr warranty. husq. is the only saws i use anymore, cant beat the performance and customer service.
@@stevecline8666 I bought the 2017 model XP 562 with the auto tune and it performs great. I was reluctant on buying this saw for sure because I had a johnsered turbo 2050 for 25 years and made only two carburetor adjustments in the break in period and this saw has been flawless. I just put a carburetor rebuild kit and new fuel lines and filter and it's still running strong. Only problem was the chain brake cover where the chain adjustment location worn out. Jonsered discontinued the part. I found the chain brake assembly used on line. Sthil uses the m- tronic on there pro saws. The new technology is nice vs a carburetor though. Sthil is doing fuel injection now on the 500I if I am correct.
I grabbed a 550xp mark 2 this year and i could not be happier. the power and speed this saw has is un matched by any saw in its class. very easy starting and rips with an 18" bar. i have not even tried my 20" bar yet since i havnt really needed it. the new x cut chains are also great. very happy with this saw for pretty much the same reasons listed in this video.
Great to hear! The mark 2 version is a pretty good improvement over the original, but even the originals were really good saws.
Awesome review my friend. The clarity/quality of the pics are amazing. I purchased a 4910 based on your comparison to the 501. I did buy the aluminum 501 handle and grip though...
It suck that husqvarna didnt implement smart start to help with starting the saw. That feature would be nice. Allthough only 50cc so its no task to crank the engine over i guess.
Lightest 50cc pro saw is the echo 501p. 550 has weak output bearings still.
The new Echo CS-4910 is lighter than the CS-501P. It's basically a CS-501P with a plastic front handle and without the premium bar and chain.
@@EshlemaniaTV and the 4910 is not a pro saw either
We just went through the entire parts catalogs of the CS4910 and CS501P. Here's the differences we found: ruclips.net/video/8gOWIXylqxE/видео.html
@@EshlemaniaTVyou missed a lot chief. Period.
Yes 501p is a really nice saw but 550 will cut circles around it. I have one and love it for lightweight, but grabbed my makita ea5000p 18 in 3/8 chain made it look like a toy. I have a 550xp mkII w 3/8 on it 18 in makita vs husqvarna 550xp I almost gotta say I think the makita will eat it up. And to new buyers the 550 and 545 dont have comp release but saw starts so fast you wont mind. If you get a deal on the 545 get it. Wicked little saw!!!
Any truth to the rumour that a 562xp mark two is on the way??
They announced some running changes on the 562XP. The biggest change is going to a better sealing air filter set up like they are using on the new 545, 550XP and 572XP. This change is actually backwards compatible and available in a kit from Husqvarna. So far they are just making the changes and not actually redesigning it like they did with the 550XP and 545.
@@EshlemaniaTV Thanks for your reply, 👍🌲🇮🇪
A mark II 572 version coming out?
Dont know but wouldnt doubt it!!!!!
@@nomnum3476 Why? There is nothing wrong with the 572
I considered the 550 XP Mark II when I was looking to purchase a chainsaw until I learned it had an auto-tune carburetor. I disagree with your opinions on electronic carburetors. Between Stihl and Husqvarna the vast majority of complaints are in regards to these electronic carburetors. And there is a vast plethora of negative reviews. They sound good in theory until you are the one experiencing problems. Conventional carburetors don't have to be constantly tweaked like you make it sound. Once properly tuned they run as should and they have the advantage of being able to be tuned in the field by the operator if needed. If an auto-tune carburetor malfunctions in the field it has to go to a shop. They are very expensive to replace as well, which seems to be the norm with a bad one. The sales of Stihl and Husqvarna are dropping as a result and Echo for one is excelling because they are wise enough to see what is happening. In addition Stihl and Husqvarna have been earning a bad reputation for not standing behind their warranties on these saws. I for one will pass on buying any chainsaw with an electronic carburetor. Give me an Echo or Dolmar (Makita) instead.
We have owned Autotune saws for over 5 years. I have some that get used regularly and some that sit for months at a time. No issues starting them, no issues with anything really related to Autotune. The issues with the saws from Stihl is that they are basically using first generation Husqvarna Autotune on them while Husqvanra has advanced theirs considerably in the past 10+ years that it has been in use. The issues with the first version of the 550XP were blamed at times on Autotune by many people because that was the easy scape goat, but the actual issues were from dirt ingestion. This is why Husqvarna spent so much time redesigning the air filtration system on the 550XP Mark II, 545 Mark II, and the 572XP when it was released. Again, not an Autotune issue. The original 562XP saws and some of the 545 saws had issues with the crankcase gasket blowing out between the case halves by the oil tank. Not an Autotune issue, but because the saw would eventually run lean enough that Autotune couldn't compensate for it, Autotune was blamed. The older 562XP saws also had an issue with crank bearing seals leaking. Again, not Autotune, but because the symptoms came from running lean it was blamed on Autotune. I have seen original 550XP saws come in for repairs that were being used and abused by Asplundh with over 1,000 hrs of run time on them! And that is not an estimate of hours because the Autotune module records all that data. And when I say "repairs" it is usually broken recoil ropes or starter housings, damage from falling out of a tree, or some other repair unrelated to the carb or Autotune just like with the non Autotune saws that they use. My point is, if you actually try an Autotune saw and run one the way it is supposed to be ran and start it the way the manufacturer tells you to start it when it's cold and when it is hot, you get more power out of them and no more issues than you would get from a saw without Autotune.
Saying that the sales of Husqvarna and Stihl are dropping because of their saws having Autotune or M-Tronic is a bit of a reach......... Especially when Husqvarna was set to start a promotion on Sept. on their XP saws and had to push it back til October because they were running low on inventory.
If you are cutting with a saw with a regular carb in say Iowa and then take the same saw to Denver, Co you will have to adjust it just because of the altitude change. AutoTune does it for you. If your air filter gets dirty you either have to replace the air filter right away, or adjust the carb to compensate. Autotune does that automatically. If a regular carb didn't have to be adjusted that often to maintain peak performance, then why is everyone having such a big deal about limiter caps? And just because a saw with a regular style carb starts and runs doesn't mean it's running strongly as it should or could. But with an Autotune saw you simply let it warm up and it will recalibrate for the condition of the fuel, air filter, temperature, altitude, etc and allow the saw to run at optimal performance. Saying that a conventional carb can be tweaked in the field by the operator is not actually an advantage since the operator will have to stop and get out screw drivers to make adjustments, and then get back to work. This is the whole point of the Autotune carbs, they adjust themselves constantly to allow the saw to run at top performance without having to stop cutting.
As for Echo, they have at least one saw outside of North America that has something similar to Autotune on it. They know that they are going to be forced to go that route or EFI eventually to meet emission standards. Now, don't get me wrong I like the Echo power equipment and think they have done some really good stuff with their saws and their blowers lately, but next time you see a big tree company like Asplundh or Davey Tree Company out working, count how many Husqvarna's or Stihl's they are using and then see if you can spot any Echo saws.
All that being said, we do appreciate you taking the time to comment. It's always good to hear from viewers that actually watched the videos. What saw did you end up purchasing when you were shopping for a new one?
@@EshlemaniaTV Wow! I appreciate your reply. You have made a very strong argument in favor of auto-tune carburetor equipped chainsaws with your in depth response. Primarily so for Husqvarna, which would be my brand of choice over Stihl as I feel Stihl quality is not like it once was.
I purchased an Echo 620P w/24" bar and chain. It has been nothing but superb straight from the box to broken in. Excellent torque and power, starts easily and reliably. I recently tached it now that the saw is broke in. The saw hit all the rpm parameters perfectly as listed in the owners manual as set so I didn't have to adjust a thing.
I also bought a 501P w/20" bar and chain. It's not reaching it's full potential yet in regards to max rpms but it's basically a brand new saw yet. However it has been just as impressive as the 620P, just in a smaller saw.
Between the 620P and 501P I purchased a Husqvarna 440e. The version with the bar nut, not the tool-less one. Straight from the box it started perfectly, but would not idle without shutting off. I had to tweak the idle jet with the scrench. That solved the problem, but then it caused the saw to bog upon acceleration. I had to purchase a jet screw tool kit so I could adjust the L and H jets. I finally got it adjusted to where it operates as should. But one thing is for certain. Husqvarna's rpm specs in the owners manual are off. The saw wouldn't run right or at all when I adjusted to them. I had to go by ear while keeping it as close to the specs as possible.
I may give a 550XP Mark II an honest try in the future, I love chainsaws, but I need another one like I need another hole in my head. Lol!
I don't baby my saws, but in the same token I don't abuse them either. I run sharp chains and clean and maintain them after every use. I run pump gas mixed with Formula K2 oil and Stabil when doing volume cutting. For storage and making a few cuts I use TruFuel or Husqvarna's version.
The big issue with Stihl's M-tronic set up is that it is actually Husqvarna technology that they are trying to adapt and make their own, so it as a lot of little kinks to be worked out yet. But in time I'm sure it will be more reliable and they will have better dealer support.
You definitely didn't go wrong with the 620P from Echo. It is a good strong reliable saw! The 501P is also a good saw, but for some reason it just seems to get lost in the shuffle here in our area and doesn't sell as well. It is one of those saws that people seem to pass over because the 590 Timberwolf is a lower price, and the 620P is more powerful. This is one of the big issues with having so many models to choose from these days.
Just jumping in here on the conversation. You should give the 550 a try. It is a different kind of cutting, the cutting comes from the high rpm's and a sharp chain which should always be standard equipment on any saw. I have been using mine for 2 years and find it is the saw I go to most. Hey, there is more than one way to skin a cat and if you like what you like, go with it. I think the auto tunes are where it's at but, just my opinion. Good luck with the Echo. I would like to try one of the 620'same someday. They have a good rep.
I have been running Stihl saws for up to 25yrs. Non Electronic Carbs. With NO Problems !! These Electronic Carbs is a BIG Marketing Venture to sell more saws ! These two big companys are the only ones doing it !!! We will see if the other ones will be coming out with the Electronics ! Murpheys Law, Just to more to go wrong plain and simple !!!
I like my MS 201Tc, MS-261c, and 500i. I like some Husqvarna too mind.
How much run time do you have on that 500i so far?
Nice vid, I had 2 stihl 026 and loved them. Both run great until I fell a
tree on one. The other still run great after 25 year of cutting
firewood. Then I bought the new 261C M and expected it to bee as good as
the other two. It was not. After 3 years of cutting firewood 261 broke
down with crankshaftfailure. Stihl told me I was to blame not using the
Stihl motomix oil. All these years I mix shell oil and gas 2%. That was
not good enough for Stihl 261 Stihl told me. Not happy with Stihl 261
and Stihl-service anymore. No more Stihl for me....
Thanks for the feedback!
Next time I bet you run the proper oil.
I'd rather a 266 any day rather than a auto tune I can carry a screw driver notna spare computer with me
Don't know anyone that buys an Autotune saw is carrying a computer with them to the woods. But nearly everyone that buys a saw with a regular carb is carrying screwdrivers into the woods because they are planning on having issues where they will have to adjust the carb on their saw.
dude the auto tune rocks! i was skeptical at first. went on quite a few jobs with mine this year various altitudes and saw ran phenomenal every time. my other saws are just sitting because i have no need. try it, they got a 3yr warranty. husq. is the only saws i use anymore, cant beat the performance and customer service.
@@stevecline8666 I bought the 2017 model XP 562 with the auto tune and it performs great. I was reluctant on buying this saw for sure because I had a johnsered turbo 2050 for 25 years and made only two carburetor adjustments in the break in period and this saw has been flawless. I just put a carburetor rebuild kit and new fuel lines and filter and it's still running strong. Only problem was the chain brake cover where the chain adjustment location worn out. Jonsered discontinued the part. I found the chain brake assembly used on line. Sthil uses the m- tronic on there pro saws. The new technology is nice vs a carburetor though. Sthil is doing fuel injection now on the 500I if I am correct.