Poulan Pro Chainsaw PP4218A Manual

The Poulan Pro PP4218A is an 18-inch gas-powered chainsaw featuring a 42cc 2-cycle engine, automatic oiler, tool-less chain tensioning, inertia chain brake, reduced vibration system, and a side-access chain tensioner. Below are key sections for safety, features, assembly, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

Features at a Glance

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

Safety Information

Read all instructions before use. Always wear protective equipment.

1. Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): Always wear safety glasses, hearing protection, gloves, chainsaw chaps/pants, and sturdy boots.
2. Work Area Safety: Clear area of bystanders, pets, and obstacles. Ensure secure footing.
3. Kickback Zone: Avoid contact with the upper quadrant of the bar tip.
4. Chain Brake: Test before each use. Engage when carrying or not cutting.
5. Fuel Safety: Refuel in well-ventilated area, engine off and cool. Wipe spills.

WARNING! Failure to follow safety instructions can result in serious injury or death. Keep hands and feet away from moving chain.

Assembly & Setup

Unpack and inspect contents. Assemble on a clean, flat surface.

1. Attach Guide Bar & Chain: Loosen bar nuts. Position chain with cutters facing forward on top of bar. Fit bar over studs. Adjust tension.
2. Install Hand Guard: Ensure chain brake mechanism is properly aligned.
3. Fill Oil Tank: Use high-quality bar and chain oil. Check for leaks.
4. Fuel Mix: Prepare 2-cycle fuel mix (40:1 ratio - 3.2 oz of 2-cycle oil per 1 gallon of unleaded gasoline). Shake well.
5. Final Check: Ensure all fasteners are tight. Chain moves freely but snug on bar.

CAUTION! Do not operate without proper assembly. Chain must be properly tensioned.

Specifications

• Model: PP4218A
• Engine Displacement: 42cc
• Engine Type: 2-cycle, air-cooled
• Fuel/Oil Ratio: 40:1 (unleaded gasoline to 2-cycle oil)
• Guide Bar Length: 18 inches
• Chain Pitch: .325 inch
• Chain Gauge: .050 inch
• Dry Weight: Approx. 10.1 lbs (4.6 kg)
• Sound Power Level: 112 dB(A)
• Vibration Level: Front handle: 4.5 m/s², Rear handle: 6.5 m/s²

Controls and Components

Familiarize yourself with all controls before starting.

Main Controls: - Throttle Trigger: Controls engine speed. Release to idle. - Throttle Trigger Lockout: Must be depressed to engage throttle. - Stop Switch: Moves to STOP position to shut off engine. - Choke Control: Used for cold starting. - Primer Bulb: Press 5-10 times to prime engine. - Chain Brake/Front Hand Guard: Push forward to engage brake; pull back to disengage. - Side-Access Chain Tensioner: Turn knob to adjust chain tension (no tools needed).

Maintenance Points: Air filter cover, spark plug, fuel and oil caps, chain catcher, muffler.

Fuel & Oil

Use fresh, unleaded gasoline with a minimum octane rating of 89. Use high-quality 2-cycle engine oil certified for air-cooled engines.

1. Fuel Mix: 40:1 ratio. Mix in approved container. Do not mix in chainsaw tank.
2. Bar & Chain Oil: Use specially formulated oil. Check level frequently during use.
3. Filling: Clean area around caps. Fill tanks slowly to avoid spills. Tighten caps securely.
4. Storage: For storage over 30 days, drain fuel tank and run engine dry.

WARNING! Gasoline is extremely flammable. No smoking. Engine must be cool.

Starting & Operation

Follow these steps for safe starting and operation.

1. Pre-Start Check: Ensure chain brake is disengaged. Chain is clear of obstructions. Proper tension.
2. Cold Start: - Set stop switch to RUN. - Press primer bulb 5-10 times. - Set choke to FULL position. - Place on ground, hold securely with foot in rear handle. - Pull starter rope briskly until engine 'pops'. - Move choke to HALF position. - Pull starter rope until engine starts. - Allow to warm up for 10-15 seconds, then move choke to RUN.
3. Warm Start: Follow steps without using choke.
4. Cutting: Use full throttle when cutting. Let chain do the work. Do not force. Be aware of pinch points.
5. Stopping: Release throttle. Move stop switch to STOP.

CAUTION! Always start on ground, not on knee or while holding. Keep firm grip with both hands.

Maintenance

Regular maintenance ensures performance and longevity.

Note: Disconnect spark plug wire before performing maintenance.

Chain & Bar Care

Proper care extends life and improves cutting performance.

1. Sharpening: Use correct round file size (.325"). Maintain 30° filing angle. File all cutters evenly.
2. Tensioning: Chain should be snug against bar but pull freely by hand. Re-check when cold and after first few minutes of use.
3. Lubrication: Check oil flow before use. Chain should throw a fine line of oil. Adjust oiler if needed.
4. Bar Maintenance: Flip bar periodically for even wear. Clean bar groove and oil holes.
5. Replacement: Replace chain when cutters are worn down or damaged. Replace bar if rails are worn unevenly or groove is widened.

Storage

Proper storage prevents fuel system issues and corrosion.

1. Short-Term (under 30 days): Run engine dry of fuel. Clean exterior. Store in dry place.
2. Long-Term (over 30 days): - Drain all fuel from tank and carburetor. - Remove spark plug, add 1 teaspoon of oil into cylinder, pull starter slowly to coat, reinstall plug. - Clean entire unit thoroughly. - Loosen chain tension. - Store in dry, covered location, out of reach of children.

WARNING! Never store with fuel in tank in an enclosed area. Fumes are explosive.

Troubleshooting

Service: For repairs beyond basic maintenance, contact an authorized Poulan Pro service dealer.

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