This is the answer!I believe, the correct answer is to buy a MS261 now and a MS300 later. If still unsure about it buy a 550xp as well and have a good time with all three!
This is very true and the first fix was a new flywheel and coil with a retune. New ones have factory pop up pistons weather that’s good or not depends who you ask about it.
What don't you like? I've owned a couple, and I'll admit, the first gen version was a bit portly, with performance that wasn't mind blowing, but I feel like the latest Mtronic version is very good. It's now lighter with better performance. I've never run a 346xp (have never even seen one around here), but have run 550xps, both Mk1 and Mk2. I really like the Mk1, when it is running well. Very light and nimble. Excellent limbing saw. Mk2 has a bit more performance than the 261, according to the dyno, but I can't say I can tell in the real world, trading back and forth. It did gain a pound or better though, for the increased reliability over the Mk1. I've had a v3 Mtronic 261 for about 5 years now, after selling off my OE version. It has a timing bump and base gasket delete. I can't find anything I don't like. Starts well, limbs well, cuts 12" hardwood with ease. I like the Mk2 550 also. I've considered adding one to the stable, but I don't use 50cc saws a ton.
The performance is lacking compared to the 550XP of both generations. Its a light/trim saw like MS260 was, but it also underperformed its peers like the 260 did. Running a 550mk2 and a Ms261 back to back and its pretty apparent which saw is smoother faster nad has more torque. It isn't the 261.
Porting my 026 improved it from 9k to 11k in the same 12" cut and I don't know what I'm doing.
261 is definitely easier on hands also.Second correct answer is, the MS261 can be quite the nasty little m'fer when ported with the bottleneck points addressed when doing so.
The question might not have been asked, but it seemed appropriate to address anyway.
definitely lighter, what a 50cc saw should be.
The 026 and 260 still have a strong following. While not the quickest there’re built like a tank, keep chugging and easy to work on.
If anyone deserved an attestupa, it's whoever at Husqvarna discontinued the 346.
All that's true in regards to the 260, but its still a turd. The 346 was actually more reliable and was anything but a turd.
I’d take that reliability bet on a 260 vs 346 they’re both rock solid and yes a 346 kicks an 026/260’s but. I’d expect that though since the 026 came out first. Each new saw in that size should beat the previous saws in the class.
