Poulan 18 Chainsaw Manual

The Poulan 18 Chainsaw is a gas-powered chainsaw featuring an 18-inch guide bar, 42cc 2-cycle engine, automatic oiler, chain brake, anti-vibration system, and tool-less chain tensioning. Designed for cutting firewood, pruning trees, and general property maintenance. Below are key sections for safety, features, assembly, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

Features at a Glance

Key components: 42cc 2-cycle engine, 18-inch guide bar and chain, automatic chain oiler, inertia-activated chain brake, anti-vibration handles, tool-less chain tensioning system, and primer bulb.

Feature	Description
Engine	42cc 2-cycle air-cooled gasoline engine
Guide Bar Length	18 inches
Chain Pitch	0.325 inches
Chain Gauge	0.050 inches
Automatic Oiler	Lubricates bar and chain during operation
Chain Brake	Inertia-activated safety feature to stop chain
Anti-Vibration System	Reduces user fatigue during extended use
Tool-Less Chain Tensioning	Adjust chain tension without tools
Fuel Tank Capacity	Approx. 10.1 fl oz (300 ml)
Oil Tank Capacity	Approx. 6.8 fl oz (200 ml)

Safety Information

Always wear proper safety equipment: helmet, eye protection, hearing protection, gloves, chainsaw chaps, and sturdy boots.

1. Clear work area of obstacles and bystanders.
2. Inspect chainsaw before each use for damage or loose parts.
3. Ensure chain is properly tensioned and sharp.
4. Never operate with one hand or above shoulder height.
5. Be aware of kickback zone (upper quadrant of bar tip).

WARNING! Gasoline is flammable. Refuel in well-ventilated area with engine off and cool. Do not smoke near fuel.

Assembly & Setup

Unpack and inspect all parts. Assembly requires attaching guide bar and chain, filling with fuel and oil.

1. Attach guide bar: Place bar onto studs, align chain around sprocket and bar groove.
2. Install chain: Ensure cutting teeth face forward on top of bar.
3. Tension chain: Use tool-less tensioner to adjust until chain snaps back when pulled from bar.
4. Mix fuel: Use fresh unleaded gasoline (87 octane min.) with 2-cycle oil at 40:1 ratio.
5. Fill tanks: Add fuel mix to fuel tank and bar & chain oil to oil tank.

CAUTION! Chain must be properly tensioned. Loose chain can derail; overtightened chain can damage bar or engine.

Specifications

• Engine Displacement: 42cc
• Engine Type: 2-cycle, air-cooled
• Guide Bar Length: 18 inches
• Chain Pitch: 0.325 inches
• Chain Gauge: 0.050 inches
• Fuel Capacity: 10.1 fl oz (300 ml)
• Oil Capacity: 6.8 fl oz (200 ml)
• Weight (dry): Approx. 10.8 lbs (4.9 kg)
• Sound Power Level: 112 dB(A)
• Vibration Level: Front handle: 5.2 m/s², Rear handle: 7.5 m/s²

Controls and Components

Main controls: On/Off switch, choke control, primer bulb, throttle trigger with lockout, chain brake lever, and fuel/oil caps.

Front Handle: Contains throttle trigger and lockout. Rear Handle: Contains On/Off switch. Top Cover: Houses choke, primer bulb, and air filter. Right Side: Chain brake lever and tensioner dial.

Safety Features: Chain brake (manual/inertia), throttle lockout, right-hand guard. Maintenance Points: Air filter, spark plug, fuel filter, oiler adjustment.

Starting & Operation

Starting procedure for cold and warm engine.

1. Place on flat, clear surface. Engage chain brake.
2. Set On/Off switch to ON (I).
3. Pull choke to FULL position (cold engine only).
4. Press primer bulb 5-10 times until fuel is visible.
5. Hold rear handle with right hand, place left foot through front handle.
6. Pull starter rope briskly until engine fires (1-3 pulls).
7. Push choke to HALF position, pull until engine starts.
8. Allow to warm up 30 seconds, then push choke to OFF.
9. Disengage chain brake by pulling back toward front handle.
10. Squeeze throttle to begin cutting.

Tip: For warm restart, skip choke and primer steps.

Chain & Bar Maintenance

Regular maintenance ensures optimal performance and safety.

1. Chain sharpening: Use round file (5/32 inch) at 30° angle. File each cutter evenly.
2. Chain tension: Check frequently when hot and cold. Adjust with tensioner dial.
3. Bar maintenance: Clean bar groove weekly. Flip bar monthly for even wear.
4. Oiler check: Ensure oiler is working—look for oil fling on cut material.
5. Replace chain: When cutters are worn below 0.25 inches or damaged.

WARNING! Always wear heavy gloves when handling chain. Ensure engine is off and cool.

Engine Maintenance

Follow regular maintenance schedule for engine longevity.

Component	Interval	Action
Air Filter	Every 10 hours	Clean with soap/water; replace if damaged
Spark Plug	Every 25 hours	Clean electrode; gap at 0.025 inches; replace yearly
Fuel Filter	Every season	Replace if clogged
Carburetor	As needed	Adjust idle and high-speed screws if engine runs poorly
Exhaust Port/Spark Arrestor	Every 25 hours	Clean carbon buildup

CAUTION! Disconnect spark plug wire before performing maintenance.

Storage

Prepare chainsaw for storage longer than 30 days.

1. Drain fuel tank and run engine until it stops to clear carburetor.
2. Remove spark plug, add 1 teaspoon of 2-cycle oil into cylinder, pull starter slowly 2-3 times, reinstall plug.
3. Clean entire saw, especially air filter and cooling fins.
4. Remove chain, clean and soak in oil; store bar flat.
5. Store in dry, cool place away from children.

CAUTION! Never store with fuel in tank for extended periods—fuel can degrade and damage engine.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
Engine won't start	No fuel, flooded, bad spark	Check fuel; wait if flooded; check spark plug and wire.
Engine starts then dies	Clogged air/fuel filter, carb adjustment	Clean/replace filters; adjust carburetor.
Chain doesn't turn	Chain brake engaged, clutch worn	Disengage brake; inspect clutch and drum.
Chain oils poorly	Empty oil tank, clogged oiler hole	Fill oil; clean oil ports on bar.
Excessive vibration	Loose parts, unbalanced chain	Tighten all bolts; sharpen chain evenly.
Poor cutting performance	Dull chain, improper tension	Sharpen chain; adjust tension.

Reset: For persistent issues, consult authorized service center.

Service: 1-800-554-6723; www.poulan.com

Warranty Information

Poulan 18 Chainsaw includes a 2-year limited warranty covering defects in materials/workmanship. Proof of purchase required. Warranty does not cover normal wear, misuse, neglect, or improper maintenance. For warranty service, contact authorized dealer or Poulan customer service.

Contact: Poulan Customer Service, 1-800-554-6723, Monday-Friday 8am-5pm CST.

Note: Save this manual and receipt for warranty claims.