Poulan Gas Chainsaw Manual

The Poulan Gas Chainsaw is a powerful outdoor power tool designed for cutting firewood, pruning trees, and general yard maintenance. It features a high-performance 2-stroke gasoline engine, automatic oiling system, anti-vibration handles, chain brake safety feature, and easy-start technology. Below are key sections for safety, features, assembly, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

Features at a Glance

Key components: 2-stroke gasoline engine, 16-inch cutting bar and chain, automatic chain oiler, chain brake, anti-vibration system, and easy-pull starter.

Safety Information

Read all instructions before operating. Always wear protective equipment.

1. Personal Protective Equipment: Wear safety glasses, hearing protection, gloves, steel-toed boots, and chainsaw chaps.
2. Work Area Safety: Clear area of bystanders, especially children. Ensure secure footing.
3. Kickback Prevention: Hold saw firmly with both hands. Do not cut with tip of bar.
4. Fuel Safety: Mix fuel outdoors. Store fuel in approved container away from sparks or flame.

WARNING! Chainsaws are dangerous tools. Failure to follow safety instructions can result in serious injury or death. Always engage chain brake when not cutting.

Assembly Instructions

Unpack and inspect all parts. Assembly requires basic tools.

1. Attach guide bar: Place bar on mounting studs, align chain with sprocket, tighten nuts.
2. Install chain: Ensure cutting teeth face forward on top of bar. Adjust tension.
3. Fill oil tank: Use recommended bar and chain oil. Check for leaks.
4. Mix fuel: Use fresh unleaded gasoline (87 octane minimum) with 2-stroke oil at 40:1 ratio.

CAUTION! Ensure chain is properly tensioned - should snap back when pulled from bar. Loose chain can derail; overtightened chain can damage bar.

Specifications

• Engine: 42cc 2-stroke gasoline engine.
• Power Output: 2.0 HP at 9,500 RPM.
• Fuel System: Diaphragm carburetor with purge bulb.
• Ignition System: Electronic ignition with stop switch.
• Bar Length: 16 inches (40 cm) Oregon style.
• Chain Pitch: 3/8 inch low-profile.
• Chain Gauge: 0.050 inches.
• Drive Links: 55 links.
• Sound Level: 106 dB(A) at operator's ear.
• Vibration Level: Front handle: 4.5 m/s², Rear handle: 5.5 m/s².

Controls and Components

Main components: Front handle with throttle trigger, rear handle with stop switch, choke control, primer bulb, chain brake lever, and tension adjustment screw.

Controls: Throttle trigger (with lockout), Stop switch (ON/OFF), Choke lever (3 positions: RUN, START, CHOKE), Primer bulb (3-5 presses when cold), Chain brake lever (front hand guard), Throttle lock (prevents accidental acceleration).

Maintenance points: Air filter cover, Spark plug, Chain tension adjustment, Bar mounting nuts, Fuel and oil caps.

Fuel and Oil Mixing

Use fresh unleaded gasoline (87 octane minimum) mixed with high-quality 2-stroke engine oil.

1. Mix ratio: 40:1 (3.2 oz oil per 1 gallon gasoline).
2. Use clean, approved fuel container.
3. Shake mixture thoroughly before filling saw.
4. Bar and chain oil: Use specifically formulated chainsaw oil (not motor oil).

Tip: Never use fuel older than 30 days. Add fuel stabilizer if storing over 30 days. Always mix fuel outdoors in well-ventilated area.

Starting and Operation

Starting procedure for cold and warm engine.

1. Cold start: Place saw on level ground. Engage chain brake. Move choke to CHOKE position. Press primer bulb 3-5 times. Pull starter rope until engine "pops". Move choke to RUN position. Pull starter rope to start.
2. Warm start: Choke in RUN position. Pull starter rope (should start in 1-3 pulls).
3. Operation: Disengage chain brake. Squeeze throttle trigger to increase RPM before cutting.
4. Cutting techniques: Use lower part of bar. Let saw do the work - don't force. Beware of kickback zone (upper tip of bar).

WARNING! Never drop start or start saw above waist height. Always engage chain brake when moving between cuts or not actively cutting.

Chain Maintenance

Proper chain maintenance ensures optimal performance and safety.

1. Chain tension: Check frequently when new. Chain should be snug against bar but pull freely.
2. Sharpening: Use round file matching chain pitch (5/32" for 3/8" low-profile). Maintain 30° filing angle.
3. Depth gauges: File down when 0.025" below cutting tooth. Use depth gauge tool.
4. Lubrication: Check oil flow by running saw at high RPM near light-colored surface - should see oil line.

CAUTION! Always wear gloves when handling chain. Dull chain requires more force and increases kickback risk.

Cleaning and Storage

Clean after each use for longevity.

1. Clean air filter: Remove cover, tap out debris, wash in soapy water if very dirty.
2. Clean cooling fins: Use brush to remove sawdust from cylinder fins.
3. Clean guide bar: Remove bar, clean groove with wire or bar cleaning tool.
4. Storage: Empty fuel tank or add stabilizer. Run engine dry. Store in dry place, chain brake engaged.

CAUTION! Never use compressed air to clean filter - can damage paper element. Store saw out of reach of children.

Warranty Information

Poulan chainsaws come with a 2-year consumer warranty covering defects in materials and workmanship. Warranty does not cover normal wear, misuse, improper maintenance, or commercial use. Proof of purchase required. For warranty service, contact authorized Poulan service center. Keep this manual as proof of ownership. For support, visit www.poulanpro.com or contact customer service at 1-800-554-6723.

Troubleshooting

Service Intervals: Air filter: Clean every 5 hours. Spark plug: Replace every 25 hours. Fuel filter: Replace every 50 hours.

Service Centers: 1-800-554-6723; www.poulanpro.com