Poulan 1630 Electric Chainsaw Manual

The Poulan 1630 is a 16-inch electric chainsaw designed for light to medium-duty cutting tasks around the home. It features a 30cc equivalent electric motor, automatic oiling system, tool-free chain tensioning, low-kickback bar and chain, and a lightweight design for easy handling. Below are key sections for safety, features, assembly, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

1. Features at a Glance 2. Safety Information 3. Assembly & Setup 4. Specifications 5. Controls and Components 6. Operation Guide 7. Chain Maintenance 8. Cleaning & Storage 9. Troubleshooting 10. Warranty Information

Features at a Glance

Key components: Electric motor, 16-inch guide bar, automatic oiling system, front hand guard, rear handle with trigger, chain brake, and oil tank.

FeatureDescription
Motor30cc equivalent, 120V AC electric motor
Guide Bar Length16 inches
ChainLow-kickback, .325-inch pitch
Oiling SystemAutomatic (with manual override)
Chain TensioningTool-free side adjustment
Safety FeaturesChain brake, front hand guard, safety trigger
WeightApproximately 10 lbs (without cord)
Power CordDetachable, 12-foot heavy-duty

Safety Information

Read all instructions before use. Always wear protective gear.

  1. Personal Protective Equipment: Safety glasses, hearing protection, gloves, non-slip boots, and close-fitting clothing.
  2. Work Area Safety: Clear area of bystanders, pets, and obstacles. Ensure secure footing.
  3. Electrical Safety: Use grounded outlet only. Keep cord away from cutting area and sharp objects.
  4. Kickback Awareness: Hold saw firmly with both hands. Do not cut with tip of bar.

WARNING! Risk of serious injury or death. Never operate chainsaw while tired, ill, or under the influence. Always keep chain brake engaged when not cutting.

Assembly & Setup

Unpack and inspect all parts. Assembly requires attaching guide bar and chain, filling oil tank, and connecting power cord.

  1. Attach guide bar and chain: Place chain over sprocket, align bar with mounting studs, tighten nuts finger-tight.
  2. Tension chain: Use tool-free adjuster to raise bar tip, tighten chain until snug against bar (pull chain to check).
  3. Fill oil tank: Use recommended bar and chain oil. Fill to MAX line.
  4. Connect power cord: Ensure saw is OFF. Plug cord into saw and then into grounded 120V outlet.

CAUTION! Ensure chain is properly tensioned before each use. Loose chain can derail or break.

Specifications

Controls and Components

Front Handle: Includes front hand guard and chain brake. Rear Handle: Contains trigger switch, safety lockout, and rear hand guard.

Controls: Trigger (must press safety lockout first), Chain Brake (manual engagement via hand guard), Oil Pump (automatic with manual primer button), Chain Tensioner (tool-free knob).

Indicators: Oil level window (on side of tank).

Operation Guide

Starting: Ensure chain brake is engaged. Plug in cord. Press safety lockout and squeeze trigger.

  1. Make a cut: Position saw, disengage chain brake, apply light pressure, let chain do the work.
  2. Bucking (cutting fallen logs): Support log off ground. Cut from top down, avoid pinching bar.
  3. Limbing (removing branches): Work from trunk outward. Keep saw stable.
  4. Stop: Release trigger, engage chain brake, unplug from outlet.

Tip: Check oil level frequently. Run saw off wood for 10 seconds to distribute oil on new chain.

Chain Maintenance

Sharpening: Use round file and guide. File each cutter at 30° angle. Maintain equal length on all cutters.

  1. Tension adjustment: Chain should be snug but pull freely. Adjust when cold.
  2. Filing depth gauges: Use flat file to maintain proper depth gauge clearance.
  3. Chain replacement: Replace when cutters are worn beyond repair or damaged.
  4. Bar maintenance: Clean bar groove, flip bar periodically for even wear.

WARNING! Always disconnect power before performing maintenance. Wear gloves when handling chain.

Cleaning & Storage

Unplug and cool before cleaning. Wipe exterior with damp cloth. Clean air vents with soft brush.

Storage: Empty oil tank or use stabilizer. Store in dry, locked area out of reach of children. Cover bar and chain.

CAUTION! Do not use water or solvents on motor housing. Never store with fuel (not applicable).

Troubleshooting

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
Saw won't startNo power, safety lockout not pressedCheck outlet/cord; press safety lockout before trigger.
Chain doesn't moveChain brake engaged, loose chainDisengage brake; adjust tension.
Poor cutting performanceDull chain, low oilSharpen chain; refill oil tank.
Chain throws oil excessivelyOverfilled oil tankDrain to correct level.
Motor overheatsDull chain, dirty air ventsSharpen chain; clean vents; allow to cool.
Chain comes off barLoose tension, worn barAdjust tension; inspect/replace bar.

Reset: Thermal overload may trip; unplug and allow to cool for 15 minutes.

Warranty Information

Poulan 1630 Electric Chainsaw includes a 2-year limited warranty covering defects in materials and workmanship. Proof of purchase required. Warranty does not cover normal wear, misuse, or lack of maintenance. For warranty service, contact Poulan customer service at 1-800-554-6723 or visit www.poulan.com.

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