Poulan 14 Woodshark Chainsaw Manual

The Poulan 14 Woodshark is a lightweight, gas-powered chainsaw designed for general-purpose cutting, pruning, and trimming. It features a 14-inch guide bar, 2-cycle engine requiring a gas/oil mix, automatic oiler, chain brake, anti-vibration system, and easy-start technology. Below are key sections for safety, features, assembly, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

Features at a Glance

Key components: 14-inch guide bar and chain, 2-cycle engine, fuel tank, oil reservoir, chain brake handle, throttle trigger, choke control, primer bulb, and anti-vibration mounts.

Assembly & Setup

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

1. Attach guide bar and chain: Place bar on mounting studs, loop chain around sprocket and bar groove, adjust tension.
2. Fill oil reservoir: Use recommended bar and chain oil.
3. Prepare fuel mix: Use fresh unleaded gasoline (87 octane minimum) with 2-cycle oil at 40:1 ratio (check manual for exact ratio).
4. Check all fasteners: Ensure bar nuts, covers, and handles are secure.

WARNING! Always wear protective gear: safety glasses, gloves, hearing protection, and chainsaw chaps. Never operate without proper training.

Fuel & Lubrication

Proper fuel and lubrication are critical for performance and engine life.

1. Fuel Mix: Use 40:1 ratio (3.2 oz of 2-cycle oil per 1 gallon of gasoline). Shake well before filling.
2. Bar & Chain Oil: Use high-quality, non-detergent oil. Check level before each use.
3. Filling: Clean area around caps. Use funnel to avoid spills. Wipe up any fuel/oil immediately.
4. Storage: Use fuel stabilizer if storing over 30 days. Run engine dry or drain tank for long-term storage.

CAUTION! Gasoline is highly flammable. Refuel in well-ventilated area, away from sparks or flames. Allow engine to cool before refueling.

Specifications

• Engine Displacement: 33 cc (2.0 cu. in.)
• Guide Bar Length: 14 inches
• Chain Pitch: 3/8" low-profile
• Chain Gauge: 0.050 inches
• Fuel Tank Capacity: 8.5 fl. oz. (0.25 L)
• Oil Tank Capacity: 6.8 fl. oz. (0.2 L)
• Dry Weight: 7.5 lbs (3.4 kg)
• Sound Power Level: 106 dB(A) (wear hearing protection)
• Vibration Level: Front handle: 4.5 m/s², Rear handle: 6.5 m/s²

Controls and Safety Features

Familiarize yourself with all controls before operation. Front Handle: Contains throttle trigger and throttle lockout. Top Handle: Chain brake lever. Rear Handle: Contains choke control, primer bulb, and stop switch.

Safety Features: Chain Brake (manual/inertial), Throttle Lockout (must be depressed to engage throttle), Right-Hand Guard, Spark Arrestor Muffler, Decompression Valve.

Always engage chain brake when carrying or starting. Keep both hands on handles during operation. Maintain secure footing.

Starting & Stopping

Starting Procedure (Cold Engine):

1. Place on flat, clear ground. Engage chain brake.
2. Move choke lever to FULL CHOKE position.
3. Press primer bulb 5-6 times until fuel is visible.
4. Pull starter rope briskly until engine "pops" (usually 1-3 pulls).
5. Move choke to HALF CHOKE position.
6. Pull starter rope until engine starts (1-2 pulls).
7. Allow to warm up at idle for 30 seconds before disengaging chain brake.

Stopping: Release throttle, allow engine to idle, press and hold STOP switch until engine stops. Engage chain brake.

Cutting Techniques

Basic cutting safety and techniques.

1. Planning: Clear work area of obstacles. Plan escape path from falling tree or limb.
2. Stance: Stand with feet shoulder-width apart, left foot slightly forward.
3. Grip: Hold front handle with left hand, rear handle with right hand. Thumbs wrapped underneath.
4. Kickback Zone: Avoid cutting with upper quadrant of bar tip.
5. Bucking: Support log off ground. Cut from top down. Use wedges for pinched bar.
6. Limbing: Stand uphill from log. Cut branches from bottom to top on opposite side.

WARNING! Kickback can occur suddenly and violently. Always be aware of bar tip position. Never cut above shoulder height.

Chain Maintenance

Regular chain maintenance ensures cutting efficiency and safety.

1. Sharpening: Use round file matching chain pitch (5/32" for 3/8" LP). Maintain 30° filing angle. File all cutters to equal length.
2. Tensioning: Chain should snap back when pulled from bar. Adjust with tool-less tensioner when engine is off and cool.
3. Cleaning: Remove sawdust from bar groove, oil holes, and sprocket cover after each use.
4. Inspection: Check for damaged, cracked, or worn drive links, tie straps, and rivets. Replace chain if damaged.

CAUTION! Always wear heavy gloves when handling chain. A dull chain increases kickback risk.

Storage & Winterization

Proper storage prevents fuel system damage and corrosion.

1. Short-term (under 30 days): Add fuel stabilizer to tank, run engine for 5 minutes to circulate treated fuel.
2. Long-term: Drain fuel tank and carburetor completely. Run engine until it stops from fuel starvation.
3. Remove chain, clean, and soak in oil. Clean entire saw, especially cooling fins and air filter.
4. Store in dry, cool place, away from children. Cover to prevent dust accumulation.

Tip: Label fuel can with mix date and ratio. Do not store fuel over 60 days.

Warranty Information

Poulan provides a 2-year limited warranty for residential use. Proof of purchase required. Warranty covers defects in materials and workmanship. Not covered: normal wear, misuse, improper fuel, commercial use, or lack of maintenance. For warranty service, contact authorized service center with model number (e.g., PP133) and serial number. For support, visit www.poulanpro.com or call 1-800-554-6723.

Troubleshooting

Service: For repairs beyond basic maintenance, contact authorized service center. Use only Poulan-approved replacement parts.

Support: 1-800-554-6723; www.poulanpro.com