Poulan 50cc Chainsaw Manual

The Poulan 50cc Chainsaw is a professional-grade gas-powered chainsaw designed for demanding cutting tasks. It features a 50cc 2-stroke engine, automatic oiler, chain brake, anti-vibration system, and a range of safety features. Below are key sections for safety, features, assembly, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

1. Safety Information 2. Features at a Glance 3. Assembly & Setup 4. Specifications 5. Controls and Components 6. Operation Instructions 7. Maintenance Schedule 8. Chain Sharpening & Tensioning 9. Storage Guidelines 10. Warranty Information 11. Troubleshooting

Safety Information

Read all instructions before use. Always wear protective equipment: safety glasses, hearing protection, gloves, chainsaw chaps, and steel-toed boots.

HazardPrecaution
KickbackHold saw firmly with both hands; use chain brake; avoid tip contact
Fuel handlingMix fuel outdoors; use approved container; no smoking
Electrical hazardsKeep away from power lines
Cutting precautionsPlan escape path; do not cut above shoulder height
Maintenance safetyStop engine and disconnect spark plug before servicing

WARNING! Failure to follow safety rules may result in serious injury or death.

Features at a Glance

Key components: 50cc 2-stroke engine, 20-inch bar and chain, automatic oiler, chain brake, decompression valve, anti-vibration system.

FeatureDescription
Engine displacement50cc 2-stroke air-cooled engine
Bar length20 inches (standard)
Chain pitch.325 inch
Automatic oilerLubricates chain during operation
Chain brakeStops chain instantly upon kickback
Decompression valveReduces pulling effort for easier starting
Anti-vibration systemReduces operator fatigue
Fuel capacityApprox. 20 oz (600 ml)
Oil capacityApprox. 10 oz (300 ml)
Weight (without fuel)12.5 lbs (5.7 kg)

Assembly & Setup

Unpack and inspect all parts. Assembly requires basic tools.

  1. Attach guide bar: Place bar onto studs, align chain with sprocket, tighten nuts.
  2. Install chain: Ensure cutting teeth face forward on top of bar.
  3. Adjust chain tension: Loosen nuts, adjust tensioning screw, tighten nuts.
  4. Fill fuel tank: Mix 50:1 gas/oil ratio (2.6 oz oil per gallon).
  5. Fill chain oil: Use bar and chain oil only.
  6. Check controls: Verify throttle, choke, and chain brake function.

CAUTION! Wear gloves when handling chain. Ensure all fasteners are tight.

Specifications

Controls and Components

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

Components: Front hand guard, rear handle, fuel tank cap, oil tank cap, spark plug, air filter cover, muffler.

Operation: Set choke for cold start, pull starter rope. Use throttle trigger to control engine speed. Engage chain brake by pushing front hand guard forward. Stop engine using stop switch.

Operation Instructions

Starting procedure (cold engine):

  1. Place saw on clear, level ground.
  2. Engage chain brake.
  3. Move choke lever to FULL position.
  4. Press decompression valve (if equipped).
  5. Pull starter rope sharply until engine fires.
  6. Move choke to HALF position.
  7. Pull starter rope again until engine starts.
  8. Allow to warm up 30 seconds before cutting.

Cutting techniques: Use lower part of bar; avoid tip; let saw do the work; maintain secure footing.

Maintenance Schedule

IntervalTask
Before each useCheck chain tension, fuel/oil levels, controls, chain sharpness
Every 5 hoursClean air filter, check spark plug
Every 10 hoursClean spark arrestor screen, check bar wear
Every 20 hoursReplace fuel filter, clean cooling fins
Every seasonReplace spark plug, clean carburetor

Tip: Use only genuine Poulan replacement parts.

Chain Sharpening & Tensioning

Proper chain maintenance ensures optimal performance and safety.

  1. Chain tensioning: Loosen bar nuts, adjust tension screw until chain snaps back when pulled from bar.
  2. Sharpening: Use round file matching chain pitch (5/32" for .325 pitch). File each cutter at 30° angle.
  3. Depth gauges: File depth gauges to .025" below cutter edge.
  4. Filing direction: Always file from inside to outside of cutter.

WARNING! Wear gloves. Secure bar when filing. Replace chain when worn beyond repair.

Storage Guidelines

For long-term storage (over 30 days):

  1. Drain fuel tank completely.
  2. Run engine until it stops to clear carburetor.
  3. Remove chain, clean and soak in oil.
  4. Clean entire saw, especially air filter and cooling fins.
  5. Store in dry, cool place away from ignition sources.

CAUTION! Never store with fuel in tank. Fuel deteriorates and can damage engine.

Warranty Information

Poulan 50cc Chainsaw comes with a 2-year limited warranty for residential use. Commercial use warranty is 90 days. Warranty covers defects in materials and workmanship. Not covered: normal wear, misuse, improper maintenance, unauthorized repairs. For warranty claims, contact authorized service center with proof of purchase.

Troubleshooting

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
Engine won't startNo spark, fuel issues, floodedCheck spark plug; fresh fuel; wait if flooded; clean air filter
Engine runs poorlyDirty air filter, carb adjustmentClean/replace filter; adjust carburetor (H/L screws)
Chain doesn't turnBrake engaged, clutch wornDisengage brake; inspect clutch and sprocket
Chain throws oilOver-oiling, wrong oilAdjust oiler; use correct bar and chain oil
Excessive vibrationLoose parts, damaged barTighten all fasteners; inspect bar for damage
Chain dulls quicklyHitting ground, dirty woodAvoid ground contact; clean wood; sharpen properly

Service: For technical support, call 1-800-XXX-XXXX or visit www.poulan.com

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