Ryobi 2 Cycle 16" Chainsaw

Navigating the world of chainsaws can be daunting, especially for homeowners seeking a balance between cost and performance. I recently had the opportunity to put the Ryobi 2 Cycle 16" Chainsaw (model RY3716VNM) through its paces on my property, and it’s been an enlightening experience.

Design and Build Quality

Out of the box, the Ryobi chainsaw feels lightweight and manageable, which is a boon for those of us who may not be accustomed to handling heavier, professional-grade saws. The design is user-friendly with an ergonomic anti-vibe handle that adds a layer of comfort during extended use. However, the build quality left something to be desired. The plastic components, particularly the housing, felt a bit flimsy and gave me pause about the durability of this tool over the long term.

Setup and Starting

Setting up the chainsaw was relatively straightforward. Adding the premixed fuel and bar oil was simple, and the included instructions were clear. The chainsaw started up with a few pulls of the cord, thanks to the priming bulb. However, I noticed that starting the saw could be physically demanding, particularly when the engine was cold. The compression was quite stiff, making it challenging to pull the starter cord smoothly.

Performance

Once up and running, the Ryobi chainsaw demonstrated adequate power for cutting through various types of wood. I tackled a fallen oak tree with a diameter of about 12 inches, and the chainsaw managed to get through the job, albeit not without some effort. The 37cc engine provides decent power, but it’s clear that this tool is better suited for light to moderate tasks rather than heavy-duty cutting.

I did appreciate the automatic oiler, which kept the chain lubricated consistently. However, the oiler does tend to leak when the saw is stored, so it’s wise to drain the oil after use to avoid any mess.

Chain and Maintenance

The 16" bar and chain are adequate for most homeowner tasks. However, I frequently had to adjust the chain tension, as it would loosen during use. This was a bit frustrating and added to the downtime between cuts. The inertia-activated chain brake and safety tip to reduce kickback are excellent safety features, but the chain brake was overly sensitive at times, engaging even when it wasn’t necessary.

Maintenance-wise, the air filter design is less than ideal. Sawdust easily finds its way past the filter, necessitating frequent cleaning to prevent clogging. Additionally, the carburetor requires a special “Double-D” socket tool for adjustments, which isn’t included with the chainsaw. This can be a hassle if you need to make quick adjustments to ensure optimal performance.

Reliability and Longevity

One glaring issue with the Ryobi chainsaw is its reliability over time. Initially, the saw performed adequately, but I encountered starting problems when the engine was hot. After extended use, the saw often refused to restart until it had cooled down significantly. This intermittent starting issue can be quite frustrating, especially when in the middle of a task.

The longevity of the tool also seems questionable. After a few months of occasional use, I noticed the plastic housing starting to come apart, and screws loosening with vibration. This does not bode well for the long-term durability of the chainsaw, and it raises concerns about its ability to withstand regular use.

Customer Support and Warranty

Ryobi’s customer support was a mixed bag. While the representatives were helpful in diagnosing issues, the process of getting parts or repairs done was cumbersome. The three-year limited warranty is a good safety net, but having to send the chainsaw out for repairs and dealing with backlogs at service centers can be a hassle.

Conclusion

In summary, the Ryobi 2 Cycle 16" Chainsaw is a tool with both strengths and weaknesses. It’s lightweight, easy to set up, and has some useful safety features. However, the build quality and reliability issues significantly detract from its overall value. For light, occasional use, this chainsaw can get the job done, but it’s not suited for more demanding tasks or frequent use.

Would I recommend this tool? If you’re a homeowner looking for a budget-friendly option for occasional yard work, and you’re prepared to deal with some quirks and maintenance issues, the Ryobi chainsaw could be a viable option. However, if you need a reliable, durable tool for more frequent or heavy-duty use, investing in a higher-end brand like Echo, Stihl, or Husqvarna might be a better choice in the long run.