P4018 Polan Chainsaw Manual

The P4018 Polan Chainsaw is a professional-grade 40cc gas-powered chainsaw designed for demanding cutting tasks. It features an 18-inch guide bar, automatic oiler, anti-vibration system, quick-stop chain brake, easy-start technology, and a robust 2-stroke engine. Below are key sections for safety, features, assembly, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

Features at a Glance

Key components: 40cc 2-stroke engine, 18-inch guide bar and chain, automatic chain oiler, anti-vibration handles, quick-stop inertia chain brake, decompression valve for easy starting, side-access chain tensioner.

Safety Information

Read all instructions before use. Always wear protective equipment.

1. Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): Wear safety glasses, hearing protection, gloves, chainsaw chaps, and steel-toe boots.
2. Clear Work Area: Ensure no bystanders, especially children or pets, are within 15 feet.
3. Inspect Chainsaw: Check for loose parts, chain tension, and sharpness before each use.
4. Proper Grip: Hold firmly with both hands, right hand on rear handle, left on front.
5. Kickback Awareness: Be aware of the kickback zone (upper quadrant of bar tip).

WARNING! Failure to follow safety instructions can result in serious injury or death. Never operate a chainsaw while tired, under the influence, or in poor weather conditions.

Assembly & Preparation

Unpack and inspect all parts. Assemble on a clean, flat surface.

1. Attach Guide Bar & Chain: Place bar on mounting studs, loop chain around bar with cutting teeth facing forward on top, adjust tension.
2. Fill Fuel Tank: Use fresh 50:1 gasoline-to-2-cycle oil mixture. Do not use old or ethanol-blended fuel if possible.
3. Fill Oil Tank: Use high-quality bar and chain oil.
4. Check Chain Tension: Chain should be snug against bar but pull freely by hand.

CAUTION! Fuel is highly flammable. Refuel in a well-ventilated area with engine off and cool. Wipe up spills immediately.

Specifications

• Model: P4018
• Engine Type: 2-stroke, single cylinder, air-cooled
• Displacement: 40 cc
• Power Output: 2.2 kW (3.0 HP)
• Max Engine Speed: 13,500 rpm
• Fuel Mix Ratio: 50:1 (Unleaded gasoline to 2-cycle oil)
• Bar Length: 18 in (45 cm)
• Chain Pitch: 3/8 in
• Chain Gauge: 0.050 in (1.3 mm)
• Sound Power Level: 112 dB(A)
• Vibration Level (front/rear handle): 4.5/3.2 m/s²

Controls and Components

Main Controls: Front Handle with chain brake lever, Rear Handle with throttle trigger and lockout, Master Control Lever (combines choke, stop switch, and decompression valve).

Components: Decompression Valve (press to reduce starting effort), Chain Brake Lever (front hand guard - manually engage or inertia-activated), Throttle Trigger Lockout (must be depressed to engage throttle), Side-Access Chain Tensioner (for quick adjustment), Primer Bulb (pumps fuel to carburetor).

Operation Indicators: Fuel Level Window, Oil Level Window.

Starting & Operating

Starting Procedure (Cold Engine):

1. Place on flat, clear ground. Engage chain brake.
2. Press decompression valve (if equipped).
3. Set Master Control Lever to CHOKE position.
4. Press primer bulb 5-10 times until fuel is visible.
5. Pull starter rope briskly 2-3 times until engine 'pops'.
6. Move Master Control Lever to HALF-CHOKE position.
7. Pull starter rope until engine starts. Let run for 10 seconds.
8. Move lever to RUN position. Disengage chain brake.

Cutting Techniques: Use full throttle when cutting. Let chain do the work; don't force it. Plan your cut and escape path. Beware of pinch points and binding.

Maintenance Schedule

Tip: Always disconnect spark plug wire before performing maintenance.

Chain Sharpening & Tensioning

Proper chain tension is critical for safety and performance.

1. Tensioning: Loosen bar nuts. Use adjustment screw to raise bar until chain is snug against bar but can be pulled around by hand. Tighten bar nuts. Re-check tension.
2. Sharpening: Use a round file matching chain pitch (5/32" for 3/8" pitch). File each cutter at 30° angle. Maintain consistent depth gauge height with a flat file.

WARNING! A loose chain can derail. An over-tightened chain can break or damage the engine. Always wear gloves when handling chain.

Storage Guidelines

For storage longer than 30 days:

1. Drain all fuel from tank and carburetor.
2. Run engine until it stops to clear fuel lines.
3. Remove chain, clean it and the bar, coat with oil.
4. Clean entire saw, especially cooling fins and air filter.
5. Store in a dry, cool place, away from ignition sources.

CAUTION! Old fuel can gum up carburetor. Never store saw with fuel in the tank for extended periods.

Warranty Information

Polan P4018 Chainsaw comes with a 2-year limited warranty for residential use and a 1-year warranty for commercial use. Warranty covers defects in materials and workmanship. It does not cover damage from misuse, neglect, improper fuel, normal wear (chain, bar, spark plug), or unauthorized repairs. Proof of purchase is required. For warranty service, contact an authorized Polan service center. For support, visit www.polan-chainsaw.com or contact 1-800-555-0183.

Troubleshooting

Service: For repairs beyond basic maintenance, contact an authorized Polan service center at 1-800-555-0183 or visit www.polan-chainsaw.com.