Poulan 2800 Chainsaw Manual

The Poulan 2800 is a gas-powered chainsaw designed for general-purpose cutting, pruning, and firewood preparation. It features a 2.8 cubic inch (46cc) engine, automatic oiling system, 18-inch guide bar, anti-vibration handles, and a chain brake for safety. Below are key sections for safety, features, assembly, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

1. Safety Information 2. Features & Specifications 3. Assembly & Setup 4. Fuel & Oil 5. Starting & Operation 6. Chain & Bar Maintenance 7. Cleaning & Storage 8. Troubleshooting 9. Parts List 10. Warranty Information

Safety Information

Always wear proper safety gear: eye protection, hearing protection, gloves, steel-toed boots, and close-fitting clothing. Keep bystanders and pets at a safe distance. Never operate the chainsaw above shoulder height or on a ladder.

Safety RuleDescription
Kickback ZoneAvoid contact with the upper tip of the guide bar to prevent kickback.
Chain BrakeTest chain brake before each use; engage during carrying or if kickback occurs.
Fuel SafetyRefuel in a well-ventilated area with engine off and cool. Wipe spills immediately.
Two-Hand OperationAlways grip with both hands: left on front handle, right on rear handle/trigger.
Cutting PrecautionsBe aware of falling branches, tension in wood, and never cut near power lines.

Features & Specifications

Key components: 46cc 2-cycle engine, 18-inch Oregon® bar and chain, automatic oiler, manual oiler primer, anti-vibration system, chain brake, side-access chain tensioner, and decompression valve.

Assembly & Setup

Unpack and inspect all parts. Assembly requires attaching the guide bar and chain, filling fluids, and adjusting chain tension.

  1. Attach guide bar and chain: Place bar over studs, loop chain over sprocket and bar, align with tensioning pin.
  2. Install bar nuts: Hand-tighten nuts, then adjust chain tension using side-access adjuster until chain snaps back when pulled from bar.
  3. Tighten bar nuts: Use combination wrench to secure nuts after proper tension is set.
  4. Check chain brake: Pull front hand guard toward bar to engage; push back to disengage.

WARNING! Always wear cut-resistant gloves when handling the chain. Ensure chain is installed with cutting teeth facing forward on top of bar.

Fuel & Oil

Use fresh unleaded gasoline (minimum 89 octane) mixed with high-quality 2-cycle engine oil at a 40:1 ratio. Use bar and chain oil for lubrication reservoir.

  1. Fuel Mix: 3.2 fl oz of oil per 1 gallon of gasoline. Use oil labeled for air-cooled 2-cycle engines.
  2. Filling Fuel: Clean area around cap. Use funnel to pour mix into fuel tank. Replace cap securely.
  3. Filling Bar Oil: Fill oil reservoir with recommended bar and chain oil. Check level frequently during use.

CAUTION! Never use automotive motor oil, diesel, or old gasoline. Do not mix directly in chainsaw tank. Store fuel mix in approved container labeled for gasoline.

Starting & Operation

Starting procedure for cold and warm engine.

  1. Cold Start: Set chain brake. Move choke lever to FULL CHOKE. Press primer bulb 5-6 times. Pull starter rope sharply until engine “pops.” Move choke to HALF CHOKE. Pull rope again to start. Let run 10 seconds, then squeeze trigger to return to idle.
  2. Warm Start: Set chain brake. Choke in OFF position. Pull starter rope.
  3. Cutting: Disengage chain brake. Apply full throttle before contacting wood. Let chain do the work; avoid forcing.
  4. Stopping: Release trigger, allow to idle. Push stop switch to OFF.

Tip: Always engage chain brake when moving between cuts or when not actively cutting.

Chain & Bar Maintenance

Regular maintenance ensures optimal performance and safety.

  1. Chain Sharpening: Use round file (5/32”) and file guide. Maintain 30° cutting angle. File all cutters evenly.
  2. Chain Tension: Check frequently when hot and cold. Chain should be snug but pull freely from bar. Adjust via side tensioner.
  3. Bar Maintenance: Clean bar groove weekly. Flip bar each time chain is sharpened to ensure even wear.
  4. Sprocket Inspection: Replace drive sprocket if worn or damaged to prevent chain damage.

WARNING! Disconnect spark plug wire before performing any maintenance beyond chain tensioning.

Cleaning & Storage

Clean after each use. For storage longer than 30 days, prepare chainsaw properly.

  1. Clean exterior with damp cloth. Remove sawdust from air intake, cooling fins, and guide bar area.
  2. Drain all fuel from tank and run engine until it stops to clear carburetor.
  3. Remove chain, clean in solvent, dry, and coat with oil. Store bar and chain in dry place.
  4. Store in a cool, dry place, covered to prevent dust accumulation.

CAUTION! Never use water or pressure washer to clean engine. Always store fuel mix separately in approved container.

Troubleshooting

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
Engine will not startOld fuel, flooded engine, spark plugUse fresh fuel mix. Wait if flooded; try start with choke off. Check/replace spark plug.
Engine starts then diesClogged air filter, fuel filter, carburetorClean or replace air filter. Check fuel lines and filter. May need carburetor adjustment.
Chain does not turnChain brake engaged, clutch, sprocketDisengage chain brake. Inspect clutch drum and sprocket for wear or damage.
Excessive vibrationLoose parts, unbalanced chainTighten all bolts/nuts. Check chain for damage and sharpen evenly.
Chain throws oilOverfilled oil tank, wrong oil typeDrain to correct level. Use recommended bar and chain oil.

Parts List

Common replacement parts for Poulan 2800 Chainsaw.

Warranty Information

The Poulan 2800 Chainsaw is covered by a 2-year limited warranty for residential use. Warranty covers defects in materials and workmanship. Not covered: commercial use, normal wear, misuse, lack of maintenance, or use of improper fuel/oil. For warranty service, contact an authorized service center with proof of purchase.

Customer Support: 1-800-554-6723 or visit www.poulanpro.com

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