Poulan Pro 222 Chainsaw Manual

The Poulan Pro 222 is a gas-powered chainsaw designed for homeowners and professionals requiring reliable cutting performance for medium-duty tasks like limbing, pruning, and cutting firewood. It features a 42cc 2-cycle engine, 18-inch Oregon bar and chain, automatic oiler, tool-free chain tensioning, and a reduced-emission engine design. Below are key sections for safety, features, assembly, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

1. Features at a Glance 2. Safety Information 3. Assembly & Setup 4. Specifications 5. Controls and Components 6. Fuel & Oil 7. Starting & Operation 8. Chain Maintenance 9. Storage 10. Warranty Information 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: 42cc 2-cycle engine, 18-inch Oregon bar and chain, automatic chain oiler, tool-free chain tensioning system, anti-vibration handles, inertia-activated chain brake, and side-access chain tensioner.

FeatureDescription
Engine42cc 2-cycle gasoline engine
Bar Length18 inches (Oregon)
Chain.325-inch pitch, low-kickback chain
Automatic OilerLubricates chain during operation
Chain TensioningTool-free side adjustment
Chain BrakeInertia-activated for safety
Anti-VibrationReduced vibration handles
Fuel TankApprox. 14.9 fl oz (440 ml) capacity
Oil TankApprox. 8.5 fl oz (250 ml) capacity
WeightApprox. 12.1 lbs (5.5 kg) without fuel/oil

Safety Information

Read all instructions before use. Wear appropriate safety gear.

  1. Always wear safety glasses, hearing protection, gloves, chainsaw chaps, and sturdy boots.
  2. Keep bystanders and pets at least 30 feet away.
  3. Operate with both hands on handles; ensure secure footing.
  4. Never operate in wet conditions or with damaged parts.
  5. Use chain brake when starting and carrying.

WARNING! Risk of severe injury or death from kickback, chain contact, or falling limbs. Do not operate unless trained.

Assembly & Setup

Unpack and inspect contents. Assemble bar and chain.

  1. Attach bar and chain: Place chain over sprocket, align bar with mounting studs, tighten nuts.
  2. Adjust chain tension: Use side tensioner to set proper tension (chain should snap back when pulled).
  3. Fill fuel: Mix 2-cycle oil with unleaded gasoline (50:1 ratio).
  4. Fill bar & chain oil: Use SAE 30 or equivalent bar oil.
  5. Check controls: Ensure throttle trigger, choke, and chain brake function properly.

CAUTION! Ensure chain is properly tensioned and moves freely before starting.

Specifications

Controls and Components

Main components: Front handle with throttle trigger, rear handle, choke lever, primer bulb, ON/OFF switch, chain brake lever, side tensioner, fuel cap, oil cap.

Operation: Choke for cold start, primer to fuel carburetor, throttle trigger to control speed, chain brake to stop chain. Tensioner: Turn clockwise to tighten chain, counterclockwise to loosen.

Maintenance: Check chain tension regularly, clean air filter, replace spark plug annually.

Fuel & Oil

Use fresh unleaded gasoline (87 octane minimum) mixed with 2-cycle oil at 50:1 ratio.

  1. Mix fuel in approved container: Add 2.6 fl oz of 2-cycle oil to 1 gallon of gasoline.
  2. Fill fuel tank: Use funnel to avoid spills.
  3. Bar & chain oil: Use SAE 30 or equivalent; fill oil tank before each use.
  4. Dispose of fuel properly; do not store over 30 days.

Tip: Shake fuel mix before filling. Never use automotive oil or straight gasoline.

Starting & Operation

Starting procedure (cold engine):

  1. Place on flat, clear surface; engage chain brake.
  2. Move ON/OFF switch to ON.
  3. Pull choke lever to FULL CHOKE.
  4. Press primer bulb 5-6 times.
  5. Hold front handle with left hand, place right foot in rear handle.
  6. Pull starter rope briskly until engine fires (1-3 pulls).
  7. Move choke to HALF position; pull until engine starts.
  8. Allow to warm up 30 seconds; disengage chain brake.

WARNING! Keep hands away from chain. Do not drop-start or start above waist height.

Chain Maintenance

Sharpen chain regularly; check tension before each use.

  1. Tension: Chain should be snug against bar but pull freely.
  2. Sharpening: Use round file matching chain pitch; maintain 30-degree angle.
  3. Depth gauges: File to maintain proper height.
  4. Clean bar groove and oil holes weekly.
  5. Replace chain when teeth are worn or damaged.

CAUTION! Wear gloves when handling chain. Ensure saw is off and cool.

Storage

Prepare for storage if not used for 30+ days.

  1. Drain fuel tank and run engine until it stops.
  2. Remove spark plug; add 1 teaspoon of oil through spark plug hole; pull starter 2-3 times.
  3. Clean entire saw; apply oil to bar and chain.
  4. Store in dry, locked area away from children.

CAUTION! Never store with fuel in tank; fuel can degrade and damage engine.

Warranty Information

Poulan Pro 222 includes a 2-year limited warranty covering defects in materials/workmanship. Proof of purchase required. Warranty does not cover normal wear, misuse, or improper maintenance. For warranty service, contact authorized service center or call 1-800-554-6723. Keep manual for reference.

Troubleshooting

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
Engine won't startNo fuel, flooded, spark plugCheck fuel mix; dry spark plug; replace if fouled.
Engine runs then diesClogged filter, fuel lineClean/replace air filter; check fuel line for cracks.
Chain doesn't turnBrake engaged, clutch, sprocketDisengage brake; check clutch drum/sprocket for wear.
Chain throws oilOver-oiling, wrong oilAdjust oiler; use correct bar oil.
Excessive vibrationLoose parts, unbalanced chainTighten bolts; sharpen/balance chain.

Service: For repairs, use authorized service centers only.

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

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