Poulan 33cc Chainsaw Manual

The Poulan 33cc Chainsaw is a gas-powered chainsaw designed for general-purpose cutting, pruning, and firewood preparation. It features a 33cc 2-cycle engine, automatic oiling system, anti-vibration handles, chain brake, and tool-less chain tensioning. Below are key sections for safety, features, assembly, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

Features at a Glance

Key components: 33cc 2-cycle engine, 16-inch Oregon bar and chain, automatic chain oiler, anti-vibration system, chain brake, side-access chain tensioner, and primer bulb.

Assembly & Setup

Unpack and inspect all parts. Assemble on a clean, flat surface.

1. Attach the guide bar and chain: Loosen bar nuts, position bar, fit chain with drive links in bar groove, tension properly.
2. Install the chain brake handle: Align and secure with provided hardware.
3. Fill with fuel/oil mix: Use proper 2-cycle oil ratio (see section 6).
4. Fill chain oil reservoir: Use bar and chain oil only.

WARNING! Always wear cut-resistant gloves during assembly. Ensure chain is installed with cutting teeth facing forward.

Safety Instructions

Read all instructions before operation. Always wear proper PPE.

1. Personal Protective Equipment: Safety glasses, hearing protection, gloves, chainsaw chaps, and sturdy boots.
2. Clear work area: Remove tripping hazards and ensure bystanders are at least 15 feet away.
3. Check chain tension: Chain should snap back when pulled from bar.
4. Never operate above shoulder height or on a ladder.
5. Always engage chain brake when carrying or not cutting.

DANGER! Kickback can occur without warning. Keep firm grip, do not cut with tip, and always use chain brake when needed.

Specifications

• Engine Displacement: 33 cc (2.0 cu in)
• Engine Type: 2-cycle, air-cooled
• Fuel: Unleaded gasoline (87 octane minimum) mixed with 2-cycle oil
• Fuel/Oil Ratio: 40:1 (3.2 oz oil per 1 gallon gas)
• Bar Length: 16 inches
• Chain Pitch: 3/8" low-profile
• Chain Gauge: 0.050"
• Idle Speed: 2,800 RPM
• Maximum Power Speed: 9,500 RPM
• Sound Pressure Level: 106 dB(A)
• Vibration Level: 4.5 m/s²

Controls and Components

Main controls: Throttle trigger, throttle lockout, choke control, primer bulb, stop switch, and chain brake lever.

Right Side: Throttle trigger, throttle lockout, front handle, chain brake lever. Left Side: Choke control, primer bulb, stop switch, rear handle. Top: Spark plug, air filter cover, fuel cap. Bottom: Chain oil cap, muffler.

Operation: Press throttle lockout before pulling trigger. Choke for cold starts. Primer bulb to fill carburetor. Stop switch to shut off engine.

Fuel & Oil Mixing

Use fresh unleaded gasoline (87 octane or higher) and 2-cycle engine oil meeting ISO-L-EGD or JASO FD standards.

1. Mix at 40:1 ratio: 3.2 oz (95 ml) of oil per 1 gallon (3.8 L) of gasoline.
2. Use approved mixing container. Never mix directly in chainsaw tank.
3. Shake container thoroughly before refueling.
4. Use bar and chain oil (not motor oil) in oil reservoir.

CAUTION! Never use automotive oil, diesel fuel, or old gasoline. Store fuel mix for no more than 30 days.

Starting & Operation

Starting procedure for cold and warm engines.

1. Cold Start: Set chain brake ON. Move choke to FULL CHOKE. Press primer bulb 5 times. Pull starter rope until engine "pops". Move choke to HALF CHOKE. Pull until engine starts. Let run 10 seconds, then move choke to RUN.
2. Warm Start: Set chain brake ON. Choke in RUN position. Pull starter rope.
3. Cutting: Release chain brake. Squeeze throttle trigger to increase RPM before contacting wood.
4. Shut Off: Release throttle, let engine idle 30 seconds, press stop switch.

WARNING! Never drop-start or start on uneven surface. Always engage chain brake when starting.

Maintenance

Regular maintenance ensures performance and longevity.

Note: Use only genuine Poulan replacement parts.

Chain Sharpening

Sharp chain cuts efficiently and reduces kickback risk.

1. Secure saw: Use vise or clamp.
2. File size: Use 5/32" (4.0 mm) round file for 3/8" low-profile chain.
3. File angle: Maintain 30° cutting angle.
4. File depth gauges: Use depth gauge tool to set raker height (0.025").
5. Sharpen all cutters to equal length.

Tip: Sharpen when chain produces fine dust instead of chips.

Storage

Proper storage prevents fuel system issues.

1. Short-term (under 30 days): Fill fuel tank, run engine 2 minutes to circulate treated fuel.
2. Long-term: Drain fuel tank and run engine until it stops. Remove spark plug, add 1 teaspoon of oil through spark plug hole, pull starter 2-3 times, reinstall plug. Clean entire saw, loosen chain tension, store in dry place.

CAUTION! Never store with fuel in tank for more than 30 days without fuel stabilizer.

Troubleshooting

Service: For repairs, contact authorized Poulan service center. Do not attempt major repairs unless qualified.