Poulan 306A Chainsaw Manual

The Poulan 306A is a lightweight, gas-powered chainsaw designed for general homeowner use, featuring a 2-stroke engine, automatic oiling system, 16-inch guide bar, and safety features including a chain brake and low-kickback chain. Below are key sections for safety, features, assembly, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

1. Safety Information 2. Features & Specifications 3. Assembly & Setup 4. Controls & Operation 5. Fuel & Lubrication 6. Chain & Bar Maintenance 7. Engine Maintenance 8. Storage 9. Troubleshooting 10. Parts List 11. Warranty Information

Safety Information

Critical safety warnings and precautions for operating the Poulan 306A chainsaw.

Hazard	Precaution
Kickback	Always use two hands; hold saw firmly; do not cut with tip of bar.
Chain contact	Keep chain away from body; wear protective chaps and gloves.
Fuel handling	Refuel outdoors only; allow engine to cool; no smoking.
Hearing protection	Wear ear protection during operation.
Eye protection	Always wear safety glasses or face shield.
Starting safety	Ensure chain brake is engaged; place on ground, foot in handle.
Working area	Clear area of debris, bystanders, and obstacles.
Electrical hazards	Do not operate near power lines.

Features & Specifications

Key components: 2-stroke engine, automatic oiler, chain brake, 16-inch guide bar, anti-vibration handles.

Engine: 30cc 2-stroke gasoline engine.
Fuel Capacity: 10.1 fl oz (300 ml).
Oil Capacity: 6.8 fl oz (200 ml).
Bar Length: 16 inches.
Chain Pitch: 3/8 inch low-profile.
Chain Gauge: 0.050 inch.
Weight: 9.5 lbs (without fuel/oil).
Ignition: Electronic ignition.
Safety Features: Chain brake, hand guard, throttle lockout.

Assembly & Setup

Unpack and inspect contents. Assemble guide bar and chain.

Attach guide bar: Remove side cover, align bar with studs, ensure chain adjuster pin fits in hole.
Install chain: Place chain over sprocket and bar, ensure cutting teeth face forward on top.
Tension chain: Adjust tensioning screw until chain fits snug against bar, but can be pulled by hand.
Fill oil tank: Use recommended bar and chain oil.
Mix fuel: Use fresh unleaded gasoline (87 octane minimum) with 2-cycle oil at 40:1 ratio.

WARNING! Always wear gloves when handling chain. Ensure chain brake is engaged during assembly.

Controls & Operation

Familiarize yourself with controls before starting.

Controls: Throttle trigger, throttle lockout, choke, primer bulb, ON/OFF switch, chain brake lever, front hand guard.

Starting Cold Engine: Set ON/OFF to ON, engage chain brake, set choke to full, press primer bulb 5 times, pull starter cord until engine fires, set choke to half, pull again to start.
Starting Warm Engine: Do not use choke; follow same steps without choke.
Cutting: Hold saw firmly, let chain reach full speed before cutting, use middle of bar, avoid tip.
Stopping: Release throttle, set ON/OFF to OFF.

Fuel & Lubrication

Proper fuel mix and oil are critical for performance and engine life.

Fuel Mix: 40:1 ratio (3.2 oz of 2-cycle oil per 1 gallon of gasoline). Use high-quality oil labeled for air-cooled 2-stroke engines.
Bar & Chain Oil: Use only recommended viscosity oil for automatic oiler. Check oil level before each use.
Refueling: Stop engine and allow to cool. Clean area around fuel cap. Use funnel to avoid spills.

CAUTION! Never use automotive motor oil or old gasoline. Store fuel mix in approved container for up to 30 days.

Chain & Bar Maintenance

Regular maintenance ensures cutting efficiency and safety.

Chain Tension: Check frequently when new; adjust as needed. Chain should snap back when pulled from bar.
Sharpening: Use round file matching chain pitch. File at 30-degree angle, equal strokes per tooth.
Bar Maintenance: Clean bar groove regularly, flip bar monthly for even wear.
Sprocket: Inspect for wear; replace if teeth are hooked or damaged.

Tip: Keep chain sharp; a dull chain increases kickback risk and strains engine.

Engine Maintenance

Routine engine care for long life.

Air Filter: Clean every 5 hours of use; replace if damaged.
Spark Plug: Check gap (0.025 inch); clean or replace annually.
Carburetor Adjustment: Factory set; only adjust if necessary (high and low speed screws).
Cooling Fins: Keep clean of debris for proper cooling.
Fuel Filter: Replace annually or if clogged.

Storage

Proper storage procedures for off-season.

Drain fuel tank and run engine until it stops to empty carburetor.
Remove chain, clean, and soak in oil. Store bar clean and oiled.
Clean entire saw, especially cooling fins and air filter.
Store in dry, cool place, away from ignition sources.

CAUTION! Never store with fuel in tank for more than 30 days; fuel degrades and can damage engine.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
Engine won't start	No spark, old fuel, clogged filter	Check spark plug; use fresh fuel mix; clean air filter.
Engine starts then dies	Clogged fuel filter, carburetor issue	Replace fuel filter; adjust carburetor (L screw).
Chain does not turn	Chain brake engaged, clutch worn	Disengage chain brake; inspect clutch drum/sprocket.
Chain throws oil	Over-oiling, wrong oil viscosity	Check oiler setting; use correct bar oil.
Excessive vibration	Loose parts, unbalanced chain	Tighten all bolts/nuts; sharpen chain evenly.
Poor cutting performance	Dull chain, low chain tension	Sharpen chain; adjust tension.

Parts List

Key replacement parts for Poulan 306A.

Guide Bar: 16-inch, part # 123456
Chain: 3/8" LP, 0.050", 56 drive links, part # 123457
Spark Plug: Champion RCJ-6Y or equivalent
Air Filter: Part # 123458
Fuel Filter: Part # 123459
Clutch Drum/Sprocket: Part # 123460
Recoil Starter Assembly: Part # 123461

Warranty Information

Limited warranty covering defects in materials/workmanship for 2 years from date of purchase for homeowner use. Proof of purchase required. Warranty does not cover normal wear, misuse, neglect, or improper maintenance. For service, contact authorized Poulan service center or call 1-800-554-6723. Visit www.poulanpro.com for more information.