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.
Safety Information
Critical safety warnings to prevent injury during operation.
| Hazard | Precaution |
| Kickback | Always use two hands; keep firm grip; do not cut with tip of bar. |
| Chain Contact | Wear cut-resistant chaps, gloves, eye and ear protection. |
| Fuel Handling | Refuel in well-ventilated area; allow engine to cool. |
| Operation Area | Keep bystanders and pets at least 15 feet away. |
| Starting | Place 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.
- Engine: 42cc 2-cycle air-cooled engine.
- Bar & Chain: 18-inch Oregon bar with low-kickback chain.
- Automatic Oiler: Lubricates chain during operation.
- Chain Brake: Inertia-activated; stops chain if kickback occurs.
- Tool-less Tensioning: Adjust chain tension without tools.
- Air Filter: Washable foam filter for engine protection.
- Decompression Valve: Reduces pulling effort during starting.
- Throttle Lockout: Prevents accidental throttle engagement.
Assembly & Setup
Unpack and assemble your chainsaw.
- Remove all packaging materials and inspect for damage.
- Attach the bar and chain: Loosen bar nuts, position chain on sprocket, align bar with studs, tighten nuts finger-tight.
- Tension the chain: Use tool-less adjuster to raise bar until chain is snug against bar (should pull freely).
- Fill oil reservoir with bar and chain oil (not motor oil).
- 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).
- 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.
- 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.
- Starting Warm Engine: Set choke to OFF; pull starter rope.
- Cutting: Hold saw firmly with both hands; apply light pressure; let chain do the work.
- Stopping: Release throttle; set ON/OFF switch to OFF.
Tip: Allow saw to reach full speed before beginning cut.
Maintenance Schedule
- Before Each Use: Check chain tension; inspect bar for wear; check oil level.
- Every 5 Hours: Clean air filter; check spark plug.
- Every 10 Hours: Clean cooling fins; inspect fuel filter.
- Every 20 Hours: Replace spark plug; clean muffler screen.
- Seasonal: Drain fuel for storage; sharpen or replace chain.
Chain & Bar Care
Maintaining cutting performance.
- Sharpening: Use round file (5/32") at 30° angle; file each cutter evenly.
- Tensioning: Chain should be snug but pull freely; adjust when cool.
- Bar Maintenance: Flip bar monthly for even wear; clean bar groove.
- 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.
| Component | Specification |
| Gasoline | Fresh unleaded, 87 octane minimum |
| 2-Cycle Oil | ISO-L-EGD or JASO FD certified |
| Mix Ratio | 40:1 (3.2 oz oil per 1 US gallon) |
| Storage Life | 30 days maximum; use fuel stabilizer |
CAUTION! Never use automotive oil or straight gasoline.
Troubleshooting
| Problem | Possible Cause | Solution |
| Won't start | Old fuel, flooded engine, spark plug | Use fresh fuel; wait 15 min if flooded; check/replace spark plug. |
| Runs then dies | Clogged fuel filter, air filter | Replace fuel filter; clean air filter. |
| Chain won't turn | Chain brake engaged, clutch issues | Disengage chain brake; inspect clutch assembly. |
| Poor cutting | Dull chain, improper tension | Sharpen chain; adjust tension. |
| Excessive vibration | Loose components, unbalanced chain | Tighten all bolts; balance chain. |
Specifications
- Engine: 42cc 2-cycle
- Bar Length: 18 inches
- Chain Pitch: 0.325"
- Chain Gauge: 0.050"
- Weight: 10.8 lbs (without fuel)
- Fuel Capacity: 12.1 fl oz
- Oil Capacity: 8.1 fl oz
- Sound Rating: 110 dB(A)
- Vibration Level: 6.5 m/s²
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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