Decompression valve: OEM or aftermarket

[RobertN]

Picked up on a Stihl MS461 a couple months ago. It does not have a decompression valve. It's easy enough to pull the plug. The top cover has the hole for it.

Sawzilla, HL Supply and others have inexpensive aftermarket valves.

Pros/cons for OEM vs aftermarket?

 

[xyz123]

Dont do afm decomps. IMHO

These parts will drop in stihl designed cylinders.

I use Husky oem decomps myself even over stihl oem ones.

 

[ericm979]

I've used the Husqvarna ones too.

 

[CalG]

Interesting this thread shows up.

I just had a lean run condition on my Husky 346xp. Of course the compression release was suspect, along with main seals, inlet manifold etc. Turned out to be the cylinder fixing screw backing out.
But, the saw was stripped down and the CR valve closely inspected. I even lapped the sealing surfaces with my finest clover compound. then did a "wet check". All GOOD! but I needed to be sure!

 

[dieselscout80]

What makes the Husky version better?

 

[ericm979]

What makes the Husky version better?

It doesn't fall apart and drop parts in the cylinder like the fake Stihl ones and it costs less than the real Stihl version.

 

[dieselscout80]

I was just wondering the reason as have a Stihl one on my MS361.

How long do compression release valves last?

 

[xyz123]

What makes the Husky version better?

Bigger outlet and seen way less failures from husky.

I'll try and show. See holes. Blue husky. Then on right of the black top stihl one compared hole size. The one it is beside is afm one taken out.

Long as OEM stihl use it. But if replaced IMO get husky one.

I plugged them on my 361 and G366 as they were easy to pull over compared to bigger saws. Using decomp plug for 2 bucks.

 

[Cycledude]

Have used the decompression valve on my Husqvarna 562 only a couple times , to me it seemed like a pretty much useless feature, not noticeably easier for me to start with or without using the decompression valve. Probably makes a more noticeable difference on bigger saws.

 

[xyz123]

Decomps for small saws good if you have broken ribs or other shoulder hand issues.

I had to put a stihl 460 rescue handle on a few older guys saws. My dad included. Then he no longer could do that. So I gave him a EZ start 180 I got in trade.

I still cant start some of my saws.

I am having to set them on ground pin between legs kneeling on them and pulling with left hand right now.

One with just a 50cc with spring assist I dont like but glad it has it now.

The other standard recoil ones have to wait in line even with their decomps.