Poulan 2050 Chainsaw Manual

The Poulan 2050 is a gas-powered chainsaw featuring a 2.0 cubic inch (33cc) engine, 16-inch or 18-inch guide bar options, automatic oiler, anti-vibration system, inertia chain brake, and easy-start technology. Designed for general homeowner cutting tasks like pruning, limbing, and firewood preparation. Below are key sections for safety, features, assembly, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

Features at a Glance

Key components: 33cc 2-cycle engine, guide bar and chain, automatic chain oiler, anti-vibration handles, inertia-activated chain brake, side-access chain tensioner, primer bulb, and combined choke/stop control.

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 sturdy boots.
2. Clear Work Area: Ensure no bystanders, especially children or pets, within 15 feet.
3. Inspect Saw: Check for loose parts, chain sharpness, and proper tension before each use.
4. Fuel Safety: Refuel in well-ventilated area, away from ignition sources, with engine off and cool.
5. Kickback Awareness: Hold saw firmly with both hands; do not cut with tip of bar.

WARNING! Chainsaws are dangerous. Failure to follow safety rules can result in serious injury or death. Always engage chain brake when carrying or not cutting.

Assembly & Setup

Unpack and inspect contents. Assembly typically requires attaching guide bar and chain, and filling fluids.

1. Attach Guide Bar & Chain: Place bar over studs, loop chain over sprocket and bar groove, align with drive links, secure with bar nuts (hand-tight).
2. Adjust Chain Tension: Use side knob to tension chain until snug against bar but still pull freely. Tighten bar nuts fully after tensioning.
3. Fill Bar & Chain Oil: Use recommended bar & chain oil. Fill reservoir to full mark.
4. Mix Fuel: Use fresh unleaded gasoline (87 octane minimum) mixed with 2-cycle engine oil at 40:1 ratio (3.2 oz oil per 1 gallon gas). Shake well.
5. Fill Fuel Tank: Add mixed fuel to tank.

CAUTION! Ensure chain is installed with cutting teeth facing forward on top of bar. Incorrect installation can cause immediate kickback.

Specifications

• Engine Type: 2-cycle, single cylinder, air-cooled.
• Displacement: 2.0 cu. in. (33cc).
• Power Output: Approximately 2.0 HP.
• Fuel Capacity: Approximately 10.1 fl. oz. (300 ml).
• Oil Capacity: Approximately 6.8 fl. oz. (200 ml).
• Guide Bar Length: 16 inches or 18 inches (as specified).
• Chain Speed: Up to 55 ft/sec at max RPM.
• Weight (dry): Approximately 10.5 lbs.
• Sound Power Level: Typically 112 dB(A). Wear hearing protection.
• Vibration Level: Reduced via anti-vibration mounts.

Controls and Components

Main Controls: Throttle trigger, throttle trigger lockout, choke/stop control, primer bulb, chain brake lever, master control lever (combination).

Components: Front handguard/chain brake, rear handle with throttle, top handle, muffler, spark plug, air filter cover, fuel cap, oil cap.

Operation: Master control lever has three positions: RUN (normal operation), CHOKE (for cold starts), STOP (engine off). Throttle trigger lockout must be depressed before throttle can be engaged. Chain brake is engaged manually (forward) or automatically by inertia; disengage by pulling back toward operator.

Fuel & Oil

Fuel: 40:1 gas/oil mix. Use high-quality 2-cycle engine oil (ISO-L-EGD, JASO FD, or API TC). Do not use automotive oil or diesel oil.

1. Mix fuel in approved container. Pour oil first, then gasoline. Shake vigorously.
2. Fill fuel tank on level surface. Wipe any spills immediately.
3. Use only specialized bar & chain oil in oil reservoir. Do not use waste or motor oil.
4. Check oil level frequently; refill as needed during operation.

Tip: Use fuel within 30 days. Add fuel stabilizer if storing longer. Old fuel is a common cause of starting problems.

Starting & Operation

Starting Procedure (Cold Engine):

1. Place saw on clear, level ground. Engage chain brake.
2. Press primer bulb 5-10 times until fuel is visible.
3. Set master control lever to CHOKE position.
4. Pull starter rope sharply until engine 'pops' (usually 1-3 pulls).
5. Move master control lever to RUN position.
6. Pull starter rope again until engine starts (1-3 pulls).
7. Allow engine to warm up at idle for 30 seconds. Disengage chain brake before cutting.

Cutting Techniques: Use full throttle when cutting. Let chain do the work; do not force. Be aware of pinch points, especially when cutting logs under tension. Plan escape path.

WARNING! Never drop-start or start a chainsaw while holding it with one hand. Always engage chain brake when starting.

Chain Maintenance

Chain Sharpening: Use round file matching chain pitch (.325"). File each cutter at 30° angle, maintaining original top plate angle. File all cutters to equal length. Depth gauges (rakers) may need periodic lowering with a flat file and gauge.

Chain Tension: Check frequently, especially when new. Proper tension: chain should be snug against bar but pull freely by hand. Adjust when chain sags from bottom of bar. Always re-tighten after adjustment.

Bar Maintenance: Clean bar groove regularly. Flip bar periodically for even wear. Lubricate sprocket tip if equipped.

Storage

Long-Term Storage (over 30 days):

1. Drain all fuel from tank and carburetor. Run engine until it stops.
2. Remove spark plug, add 1 teaspoon of 2-cycle oil into cylinder. Pull starter slowly 2-3 times to coat interior. Reinstall plug.
3. Clean entire saw, especially air filter and cooling fins.
4. Remove chain, clean, and soak in oil. Store bar and chain in oiled paper.
5. Store in dry, secure place, out of reach of children.

CAUTION! Never store saw with fuel in tank. Fuel can degrade and damage carburetor components.

Warranty Information

Poulan 2050 chainsaws are covered by a limited warranty for residential use. Warranty period and terms vary by region. Proof of purchase is required. Warranty does not cover damage from misuse, neglect, improper fuel, commercial use, or normal wear items (chain, bar, spark plug, filters). For warranty service, contact an authorized Poulan service center. For support, visit www.poulanpro.com or contact customer service at 1-800-554-6723.

Troubleshooting

Service: For repairs beyond basic maintenance, take to an authorized service center. Use only genuine Poulan replacement parts.

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