Poulan Pro Chainsaw Manual PP4218A

The Poulan Pro PP4218A is a 42cc, 18-inch gas-powered chainsaw designed for demanding cutting tasks. It features a 2-stroke engine, automatic oiler, chain brake, anti-vibration system, and tool-less chain tensioning. Below are key sections for safety, features, assembly, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

Features at a Glance

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

Safety Information

Read all instructions before operation. Wear appropriate PPE.

1. Always wear safety glasses, hearing protection, gloves, chainsaw chaps, and sturdy boots.
2. Keep bystanders and pets at least 15 feet away.
3. Operate with both hands on handles, firm footing, and good balance.
4. Never operate above shoulder height or on a ladder.
5. Be aware of kickback zone (upper quadrant of bar tip).

WARNING! Gasoline is flammable; refuel in well-ventilated area with engine off and cool. Avoid contact with hot muffler.

Assembly & Setup

Unpack and inspect contents. Assemble bar, chain, and handle.

1. Attach guide bar and chain: Place bar over studs, loop chain over sprocket and bar, adjust tension.
2. Fill oil tank: Use high-quality bar and chain oil.
3. Mix fuel: Use fresh unleaded gasoline (87 octane min.) with 2-cycle oil at 40:1 ratio (3.2 oz oil per 1 gal gas).
4. Prime and choke: Press primer bulb 5-10 times, set choke to full position for cold start.

CAUTION! Ensure chain is properly tensioned (snug but able to be pulled around bar by hand).

Specifications

• Model: PP4218A
• Engine Type: 2-stroke, air-cooled
• Displacement: 42 cc
• Bar Length: 18 inches
• Chain Pitch/Gauge: 0.325” / 0.050”
• Fuel Capacity: 14.2 fl oz (420 ml)
• Oil Capacity: 8.5 fl oz (250 ml)
• Weight (dry): 12.8 lbs (5.8 kg)
• Sound Power Level: 112 dB(A) approx.
• Vibration Level: Front handle: 5.2 m/s², Rear handle: 8.7 m/s²

Controls and Components

Main components: Throttle trigger, throttle trigger lockout, choke lever, primer bulb, stop switch, chain brake handle, front/rear handles, side-access chain tensioner, fuel and oil caps.

Operation: Throttle trigger (with lockout) controls engine speed. Choke lever for cold starts. Chain brake engages automatically during kickback or manually by pushing handle forward. Stop switch cuts ignition.

Maintenance: Check chain tension regularly, clean air filter, inspect spark plug, ensure bar oil flow.

Fuel & Oil

Use fresh unleaded gasoline (87 octane minimum) mixed with high-quality 2-cycle engine oil at 40:1 ratio.

1. Mix fuel in approved container: 3.2 oz (95 ml) of oil per 1 gallon (3.8 L) of gasoline.
2. Shake container thoroughly before filling saw.
3. Use only bar and chain oil in oil tank (not motor oil or waste oil).
4. Check oil level before each use; adjust oil flow rate if needed (screw near oil cap).

Tip: Never use fuel older than 30 days. Store fuel in approved, labeled container away from heat/sparks.

Starting & Operation

Starting procedure (cold engine):

1. Place saw on flat, clear ground. Engage chain brake.
2. Press primer bulb 5-10 times until fuel is visible.
3. Set choke lever to full choke position.
4. Pull starter rope briskly until engine “pops” (usually 2-5 pulls).
5. Move choke lever to half-choke position.
6. Pull starter rope until engine starts (1-2 pulls).
7. Allow engine to warm up 10-15 seconds, then push choke to run position.
8. Disengage chain brake before cutting.

WARNING! Always hold saw firmly with both hands. Do not drop-start or start in enclosed area.

Chain Maintenance

Keep chain sharp and properly tensioned for safe, efficient cutting.

1. Tension chain: Loosen bar nuts, adjust tensioning screw until chain is snug against bar but can be pulled around by hand. Tighten bar nuts.
2. Sharpen chain: Use round file matching chain pitch (5/32” for 0.325” pitch). Maintain 30° filing angle.
3. Check depth gauges: File down if above recommended height.
4. Clean bar groove and oil holes regularly.

CAUTION! Wear heavy gloves when handling chain. Always stop engine and allow to cool before maintenance.

Storage

Prepare saw for storage if not used for 30+ days.

1. Drain fuel tank and run engine until it stops to clear carburetor.
2. Remove chain, clean, and soak in oil. Clean bar and sprocket.
3. Clean air filter and exterior of saw.
4. Store in dry, cool place, away from children and ignition sources.

CAUTION! Never store with fuel in tank for extended periods; fuel can degrade and damage carburetor.

Warranty Information

Poulan Pro PP4218A comes with a 2-year consumer warranty covering defects in materials/workmanship under normal use. Proof of purchase required. Warranty does not cover wear items (chain, bar, spark plug, air filter), misuse, neglect, improper fuel, or commercial use. For warranty service, contact authorized service center or call 1-800-554-6723. Visit www.poulanpro.com for more information.

Troubleshooting

Service: For repairs, use authorized service centers. Do not attempt major repairs unless qualified.

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