Poulan Pro 400E Electric Chainsaw Manual

The Poulan Pro 400E is a 16-inch electric chainsaw designed for residential cutting tasks such as pruning, limbing, and cutting firewood. It features a 14-amp motor, automatic oiler, tool-free chain tensioning, low-kickback bar and chain, and a lightweight design for ease of use. 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. Operation Instructions 7. Chain Maintenance 8. Cleaning & Storage 9. Troubleshooting 10. Warranty Information

Features at a Glance

Key components: 14-amp electric motor, 16-inch Oregon® bar and chain, automatic oiling system, tool-free chain tensioner, front hand guard, rear handle with trigger lockout, and translucent oil tank.

FeatureDescription
Motor14-amp electric motor for powerful cutting performance
Bar Length16-inch Oregon® guide bar
ChainLow-kickback .050 gauge chain
Oiling SystemAutomatic oiler with manual override
Chain TensioningTool-free side adjustment
Safety FeaturesChain brake, front hand guard, trigger lockout
WeightApproximately 10.8 lbs (without cord)
Power Cord12-foot, 3-prong grounded cord

Safety Information

Read all instructions before use. Always wear appropriate safety gear.

  1. Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): Wear safety glasses, hearing protection, gloves, non-slip boots, and close-fitting clothing.
  2. Work Area Safety: Keep bystanders and pets at least 30 feet away. Ensure stable footing.
  3. Electrical Safety: Use a grounded outlet. Keep cord away from cutting area and sharp objects.
  4. Kickback Awareness: Hold saw firmly with both hands. Do not cut with tip of bar.

WARNING! Failure to follow safety instructions can result in serious injury or death. Always disconnect power before performing maintenance.

Assembly & Setup

Unpack and inspect all parts. Assembly requires attaching the bar and chain, filling oil reservoir, and adjusting chain tension.

  1. Attach Bar and Chain: Place bar onto mounting studs. Loop chain around bar with cutting edges facing forward on top. Adjust tension.
  2. Fill Oil Reservoir: Use only high-quality bar and chain oil. Fill to MAX line.
  3. Adjust Chain Tension: Use tool-free knob to tighten until chain snaps back when pulled from bar. Chain should move freely.
  4. Power Connection: Plug into a grounded 120V outlet. Ensure cord is undamaged.

CAUTION! Always wear gloves when handling chain. Ensure chain is properly tensioned before each use.

Specifications

Controls and Components

Main controls located on rear handle and body.

Rear Handle: Trigger switch with lockout button. Must depress lockout before pulling trigger.

Front Handle: Wraparound design with hand guard.

Chain Brake: Located front of front handle. Stops chain instantly if activated by kickback or manually.

Oiler Controls: Automatic oiler with manual override button on side.

Tensioning Knob: Tool-free adjustment on side cover.

Operation Instructions

Starting and basic cutting techniques.

  1. Pre-Operation Check: Verify chain tension, oil level, and bar/chain condition. Clear work area.
  2. Starting: Plug in saw. Depress lockout button and squeeze trigger to start.
  3. Cutting: Let chain reach full speed before contacting wood. Use steady, even pressure. Do not force saw.
  4. Stopping: Release trigger. Chain will stop. Unplug saw when not in use.
  5. Manual Oiling: Press oiler button periodically during cutting to supplement automatic oiling.

Tip: For downward cuts, use top of bar; for upward cuts, use bottom of bar to reduce kickback risk.

Chain Maintenance

Proper chain care ensures optimal performance and safety.

  1. Sharpening: Use round file (5/32") and file guide. Maintain 30° cutting angle. File each cutter evenly.
  2. Tensioning: Chain stretches with use. Check tension frequently and adjust as needed. Chain should be snug but pull freely from bar.
  3. Lubrication: Always use bar and chain oil. Check oil level before each use. Clean oil ports if clogged.
  4. Bar Maintenance: Clean bar groove regularly. Flip bar each time chain is sharpened for even wear.

WARNING! Always disconnect power before sharpening or adjusting chain. Wear cut-resistant gloves.

Cleaning & Storage

Unplug and allow saw to cool before cleaning.

Clean exterior with dry cloth. Remove sawdust from air vents, bar, and chain area. Store in dry, locked area out of reach of children. Drain oil if storing long-term.

CAUTION! Do not use water or solvents to clean motor housing. Never store with fuel (not applicable for electric model).

Troubleshooting

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
Saw won't startNo power, trigger lockout not engaged, faulty outletCheck outlet/cord; ensure lockout is depressed; reset GFCI.
Chain doesn't turnChain brake engaged, low power, jammed chainDisengage chain brake; check voltage; clear obstruction.
Chain slips or throwsLoose chain, worn drive sprocket, dull chainTighten chain; inspect sprocket; sharpen or replace chain.
Excessive vibrationLoose parts, unbalanced chain, damaged barTighten all fasteners; balance chain; inspect bar.
Chain not oilingEmpty oil tank, clogged oil ports, faulty oilerFill tank; clean ports; check oiler mechanism.

Service: For repairs, contact authorized Poulan Pro service center. Do not attempt to repair motor yourself.

Warranty Information

Poulan Pro 400E includes a 2-year limited warranty covering defects in materials and workmanship. Warranty does not cover normal wear, misuse, or lack of maintenance. Keep original receipt. For warranty claims, contact Poulan Pro customer service at 1-800-554-6723 or visit www.poulanpro.com.

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