Poulan Chainsaw 16 Inch Manual

The Poulan 16-inch chainsaw is a gas-powered cutting tool designed for homeowners and DIY enthusiasts. It features a 16-inch guide bar and chain, a 2-cycle engine requiring a gas/oil mix, automatic oiler, chain brake, anti-vibration system, and easy-start technology. Below are key sections for safety, features, assembly, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

Features at a Glance

Key components: 16-inch guide bar and chain, 2-cycle engine, automatic chain oiler, chain brake, anti-vibration handles, primer bulb, choke control, and throttle lockout.

Assembly & Setup

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

1. Attach guide bar and chain: Place bar onto mounting studs, loop chain around sprocket and bar groove, adjust tension.
2. Fill oil reservoir: Use bar and chain oil (not motor oil).
3. Mix fuel: Use fresh unleaded gasoline (87 octane or higher) with 2-cycle oil at 40:1 ratio (check manual).
4. Fill fuel tank: Use funnel to avoid spills.

WARNING! Always wear cut-resistant gloves during assembly. Keep chain away from skin.

Safety Instructions

Read all instructions before use. Failure to follow may cause serious injury.

1. Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): Always wear safety glasses, hearing protection, gloves, steel-toe boots, and close-fitting clothing.
2. Clear work area: Remove tripping hazards; keep bystanders and pets at least 30 feet away.
3. Inspect chainsaw: Check for loose parts, damaged chain, or leaks before each use.
4. Hold properly: Grip front handle with left hand, rear handle with right hand. Thumb wrapped under handle.
5. Avoid kickback: Do not cut with tip of bar; maintain firm grip and stance.

CAUTION! Never operate chainsaw above shoulder height or on a ladder. Always cut at waist level or below.

Specifications

• Engine Displacement: Typically 42cc (check model sticker).
• Fuel Capacity: Approximately 0.5 liters (16.9 fl oz).
• Oil Capacity: Approximately 0.25 liters (8.5 fl oz).
• Chain Pitch/Gauge: 0.325-inch pitch, 0.050-inch gauge (common).
• Weight: Approximately 10-12 lbs (without fuel).
• Sound Level: Exceeds 100 dB; hearing protection required.
• Spark Plug: Champion RCJ7Y or equivalent.
• Warranty: Limited 2-year consumer warranty.

Controls and Components

Main components: Front handle with chain brake, rear handle with throttle trigger, throttle lockout, choke lever, primer bulb, stop switch, and fuel/oil caps.

Operation: Press throttle lockout while squeezing throttle trigger to engage chain. Release trigger to idle. Push stop switch to shut off engine.

Chain Tension: Adjust via side knob or screw near bar mount when engine is OFF and chain is cool.

Fuel & Lubrication

Use fresh unleaded gasoline (max 10% ethanol) mixed with high-quality 2-cycle engine oil at specified ratio (e.g., 40:1).

1. Mix in approved container: Add oil to gasoline, shake well.
2. Fill fuel tank: Leave space for expansion.
3. Bar & chain oil: Use only oils labeled for chainsaw use; fill oil reservoir before each use.
4. Check oil flow: Run saw briefly over light-colored surface to see oil splatter.

Tip: Never use old or stale fuel. Use fuel within 30 days. Empty tank for storage over 30 days.

Starting & Operation

Starting procedure (cold engine):

1. Place on flat ground: Ensure chain not touching anything.
2. Engage chain brake: Push forward until click.
3. Set choke: Move lever to FULL CHOKE position.
4. Press primer bulb: 5-6 times until fuel visible.
5. Pull starter rope: Slowly until resistance, then briskly. After pop, move choke to HALF position.
6. Pull again: Engine should start. Let warm up 30 seconds.
7. Disengage chain brake: Pull back toward handle.

Cutting Techniques: Use lower part of bar for cutting; let saw do the work; avoid pinching bar.

WARNING! Always start chainsaw at least 10 feet from fueling area. Never drop-start.

Chain Maintenance

Sharp chain is essential for safe and efficient operation.

1. Sharpen regularly: Use round file and guide; maintain 30-degree angle; file each cutter equally.
2. Check depth gauges: Use depth gauge tool to file down if too high.
3. Tension chain: Should snap back when pulled from bar; adjust when cool.
4. Inspect for damage: Replace cracked or worn chain immediately.

CAUTION! Wear gloves when handling chain. Ensure engine is off and spark plug wire disconnected.

Storage & Care

Prepare chainsaw for storage:

1. Empty fuel tank: Run engine until it stops. Or add fuel stabilizer.
2. Empty oil reservoir: Or use biodegradable oil.
3. Clean saw: Remove sawdust and debris from air intake, cooling fins, and guide bar.
4. Remove chain: Clean and soak in oil; store separately.
5. Store in dry place: Cover to prevent dust.

CAUTION! Store fuel in approved container away from heat sources and living areas.

Warranty Information

Poulan offers a limited 2-year consumer warranty for defects in materials or workmanship. Proof of purchase required. Warranty does not cover normal wear, misuse, or lack of maintenance. For warranty service, contact authorized service center or call 1-800-554-6723. Keep this manual for reference.

Troubleshooting

Service: For repairs, use authorized Poulan service centers. Always disconnect spark plug before maintenance.

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