Poulan Pro 220 Chainsaw Manual

The Poulan Pro 220 is a gas-powered chainsaw designed for homeowners and DIY enthusiasts. It features a 42cc 2-cycle engine, 18-inch Oregon bar and chain, automatic oiler, tool-less chain tensioning, and an inertia-activated chain brake for safety. Below are key sections covering safety, operation, maintenance, troubleshooting, and specifications.

1. Safety Information 2. Features & Components 3. Assembly & Setup 4. Operation Instructions 5. Maintenance Schedule 6. Chain & Bar Care 7. Fuel & Oil Mixture 8. Troubleshooting 9. Specifications 10. Warranty Information

Safety Information

Critical safety warnings to prevent injury during operation.

HazardPrecaution
KickbackAlways use two hands; keep firm grip; do not cut with tip of bar.
Chain ContactWear cut-resistant chaps, gloves, eye and ear protection.
Fuel HandlingRefuel in well-ventilated area; allow engine to cool.
Operation AreaKeep bystanders and pets at least 15 feet away.
StartingPlace on ground; engage chain brake before starting.

WARNING! Failure to follow safety instructions can result in serious injury or death.

Features & Components

Key parts and their functions.

  1. Engine: 42cc 2-cycle air-cooled engine.
  2. Bar & Chain: 18-inch Oregon bar with low-kickback chain.
  3. Automatic Oiler: Lubricates chain during operation.
  4. Chain Brake: Inertia-activated; stops chain if kickback occurs.
  5. Tool-less Tensioning: Adjust chain tension without tools.
  6. Air Filter: Washable foam filter for engine protection.
  7. Decompression Valve: Reduces pulling effort during starting.
  8. Throttle Lockout: Prevents accidental throttle engagement.

Assembly & Setup

Unpack and assemble your chainsaw.

  1. Remove all packaging materials and inspect for damage.
  2. Attach the bar and chain: Loosen bar nuts, position chain on sprocket, align bar with studs, tighten nuts finger-tight.
  3. Tension the chain: Use tool-less adjuster to raise bar until chain is snug against bar (should pull freely).
  4. Fill oil reservoir with bar and chain oil (not motor oil).
  5. Mix fuel: Use fresh unleaded gasoline (87 octane minimum) with 2-cycle oil at 40:1 ratio (3.2 oz oil per 1 gallon gas).
  6. Prime the engine: Press primer bulb 5-10 times until fuel is visible.

CAUTION! Wear gloves when handling chain; ensure chain is properly tensioned before use.

Operation Instructions

How to start and operate the chainsaw safely.

  1. Starting Cold Engine: Place on flat ground; set ON/OFF switch to ON; set choke to FULL; pull starter rope until engine fires; set choke to HALF; pull until engine starts; run for 10 seconds then set choke to OFF.
  2. Starting Warm Engine: Set choke to OFF; pull starter rope.
  3. Cutting: Hold saw firmly with both hands; apply light pressure; let chain do the work.
  4. Stopping: Release throttle; set ON/OFF switch to OFF.

Tip: Allow saw to reach full speed before beginning cut.

Maintenance Schedule

Chain & Bar Care

Maintaining cutting performance.

  1. Sharpening: Use round file (5/32") at 30° angle; file each cutter evenly.
  2. Tensioning: Chain should be snug but pull freely; adjust when cool.
  3. Bar Maintenance: Flip bar monthly for even wear; clean bar groove.
  4. Lubrication: Always use bar and chain oil; check oil flow before cutting.

WARNING! Never operate with dull or loose chain.

Fuel & Oil Mixture

Proper fuel preparation is essential.

ComponentSpecification
GasolineFresh unleaded, 87 octane minimum
2-Cycle OilISO-L-EGD or JASO FD certified
Mix Ratio40:1 (3.2 oz oil per 1 US gallon)
Storage Life30 days maximum; use fuel stabilizer

CAUTION! Never use automotive oil or straight gasoline.

Troubleshooting

ProblemPossible CauseSolution
Won't startOld fuel, flooded engine, spark plugUse fresh fuel; wait 15 min if flooded; check/replace spark plug.
Runs then diesClogged fuel filter, air filterReplace fuel filter; clean air filter.
Chain won't turnChain brake engaged, clutch issuesDisengage chain brake; inspect clutch assembly.
Poor cuttingDull chain, improper tensionSharpen chain; adjust tension.
Excessive vibrationLoose components, unbalanced chainTighten all bolts; balance chain.

Specifications

Warranty Information

Poulan Pro 220 comes with a 2-year consumer warranty covering defects in materials and workmanship. Warranty does not cover normal wear, misuse, improper maintenance, or commercial use. Keep your receipt as proof of purchase. For warranty service, contact Poulan Pro customer service at 1-800-554-6723 or visit www.poulanpro.com.

Note: Always use genuine Poulan Pro parts for repairs to maintain warranty coverage.

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