Poulan Wild Thing 18 Chainsaw Manual

The Poulan Wild Thing 18 is a lightweight, gas-powered chainsaw featuring an 18-inch guide bar, 2-cycle engine, automatic oiler, chain brake, and simplified controls for occasional home use. It's designed for basic cutting tasks like pruning, limbing, and cutting small to medium-sized logs. Below are key sections for safety, features, assembly, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

1. Features at a Glance 2. Assembly & Setup 3. Safety Instructions 4. Specifications 5. Controls and Components 6. Starting & Stopping 7. Cutting Techniques 8. Maintenance & Cleaning 9. Chain Sharpening & Tensioning 10. Storage 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: 18-inch guide bar and chain, 2-cycle gasoline engine, Automatic chain oiler, Chain brake, Throttle trigger lockout, Primer bulb, Decompression valve (if equipped).

FeatureDescription
Guide Bar Length18 inches for medium-duty cutting
Engine Type2-cycle, air-cooled gasoline engine
Automatic OilerLubricates chain during operation
Chain BrakeStops chain rotation in kickback situations
Throttle LockoutPrevents accidental throttle engagement
Primer BulbEases cold starting
Decompression ValveReduces starting effort (on some models)
Fuel Tank CapacityApprox. 10.1 fl oz (300 ml)
Oil Tank CapacityApprox. 8.5 fl oz (250 ml)
Weight (without fuel/oil)Approx. 10.1 lbs (4.6 kg)

Assembly & Setup

Unpack and inspect all parts. Assemble on a clean, flat surface.

  1. Attach guide bar and chain: Place bar on mounting studs, loop chain around sprocket and bar groove, adjust tension.
  2. Fill fuel tank: Mix fresh unleaded gasoline with 2-cycle oil (40:1 ratio recommended).
  3. Fill oil tank: Use bar and chain oil only.
  4. Check chain tension: Chain should snap back when pulled from bar.

WARNING! Always wear cut-resistant gloves during assembly. Ensure chain is installed with cutting teeth facing forward on top of bar.

Safety Instructions

Read all instructions before operation. Always wear personal protective equipment (PPE).

  1. PPE: Safety glasses, hearing protection, gloves, steel-toe boots, snug-fitting clothing.
  2. Clear work area: Remove tripping hazards; keep bystanders and pets at least 30 feet away.
  3. Inspect saw: Check for loose parts, damaged chain, proper tension before each use.
  4. Fuel safety: Refuel outdoors, away from ignition sources; wipe spills immediately.
  5. Kickback zone: Avoid contact with upper tip of guide bar.

CAUTION! Never operate a chainsaw while tired, under the influence, or in poor weather conditions.

Specifications

Controls and Components

Main Controls: Throttle trigger, Throttle trigger lockout, Chain brake lever, Stop switch, Choke lever, Primer bulb.

Components: Front handguard, Rear handle, Fuel tank cap, Oil tank cap, Muffler, Spark plug, Air filter cover, Chain tensioning screw.

Operation: Squeeze throttle lockout and trigger to engage chain. Push handguard forward to activate chain brake. Use choke and primer for cold starts.

Starting & Stopping

Starting Procedure (Cold Engine):

  1. Place saw on firm ground, clear of debris.
  2. Activate chain brake by pushing handguard forward.
  3. Set choke lever to FULL CHOKE position.
  4. Press primer bulb 5-6 times until fuel is visible.
  5. Pull starter rope briskly 2-3 times until engine 'pops'.
  6. Move choke lever to HALF CHOKE.
  7. Pull starter rope until engine starts.
  8. Allow engine to warm up for 30 seconds, then move choke to RUN.

Stopping: Release throttle, press stop switch to OFF. Engage chain brake when not cutting.

Cutting Techniques

Basic Cuts: Felling, Limbing, Bucking.

  1. Maintain secure footing and firm grip with both hands.
  2. Let the chain do the work; avoid forcing the saw.
  3. For felling: Plan escape path, make notch cut, then felling cut.
  4. For bucking: Support log off ground; cut from top down.
  5. Avoid cutting with the tip to prevent kickback.

Tip: Keep chain sharp; a dull chain requires more force and increases risk.

Maintenance & Cleaning

After each use: Clean saw of debris, check chain tension, inspect for damage.

Regular Maintenance:

CAUTION! Disconnect spark plug wire before performing maintenance. Use only Poulan-approved parts.

Chain Sharpening & Tensioning

Sharpening: Use round file and guide matching chain pitch. File each cutter at 30° angle. Maintain equal length on all cutters.

Tensioning:

  1. Loosen bar nuts.
  2. Turn tensioning screw until chain is snug against bar (can be pulled by hand).
  3. Retighten bar nuts.
  4. Re-check tension after 2-3 minutes of operation.

WARNING! A loose chain can derail; an overtightened chain can break or damage sprocket.

Storage

Long-term Storage (over 30 days):

  1. Drain fuel tank and run engine until it stops.
  2. Drain bar and chain oil tank.
  3. Remove chain, clean, and soak in oil.
  4. Clean entire saw thoroughly.
  5. Store in a dry, locked place away from children.

CAUTION! Never store a chainsaw with fuel in the tank indoors. Fuel can degrade and damage components.

Troubleshooting

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
Engine won't startNo fuel, flooded, bad sparkCheck fuel; wait if flooded; check spark plug and wire.
Engine starts then diesClogged filter, carburetor issueClean/replace air filter; check fuel filter; may need carb adjustment.
Chain doesn't turnBrake engaged, clutch/sprocketDisengage chain brake; inspect clutch drum and sprocket for wear.
Chain throws oilOverfilled, wrong oilCheck oil level; use correct bar and chain oil.
Excessive vibrationLoose parts, damaged chainTighten all fasteners; inspect chain for damage or uneven sharpening.

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

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

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