Please do not return unit to retailer.

Por favor, no devuelva el aparato al lugar de compra. Veuillez ne pas retourner l???outil au d??taillant.

1-800-554-6723

www.poulan.com

Operator???s Manual

Manual del Operador

Manuel de L???utilisateur

2250 / 2450 / 2550 LE Series

WARNING:

Read and follow all Safety Rules and Operating Instructions before using this product. Failure to do so can result in serious injury.

ADVERTENCIA:

Lea el manual del operador y siga todas las advertencias e enstruc-

ciones de seguridad. El no hacerlo puede resultar en lesiones graves.

AVERTISSEMENT:

Lire le manuel de l???utilisateur et bien respecter tous les avertisse-

ments et toutes les instructions de s??curit??. Tout d??faut de le faire pourrait entra??ner des blessures graves.

Electrolux Home Products

North America

Div. of WCI Outdoor Products, Inc.

Augusta, GA 30907

WARNING: Always disconnect

spark plug wire and place wire where it can- not contact spark plug to prevent accidental starting when setting up, transporting, ad- justing or making repairs except carburetor adjustments.

Because a chain saw is a high-speed wood- cutting tool, special safety precautions must be observed to reduce the risk of accidents. Careless or improper use of this tool can cause serious injury.

PLAN AHEAD

SRead this manual carefully until you com- pletely understand and can follow all safe- ty rules, precautions, and operating in- structions before attempting to use the unit.

SRestrict the use of your saw to adult users who understand and can follow safety rules, precautions, and operating instruc- tions found in this manual.

SWear protective gear. Always use steel- toed safety footwear with non-slip soles; snug-fitting clothing; heavy-duty, non-slip gloves; eye protection such as non-fog- ging, vented goggles or face screen; an approved safety hard hat; and sound barri- ers (ear plugs or mufflers) to protect your hearing. Regular users should have hear- ing checked regularly as chain saw noise can damage hearing. Secure hair above

shoulder length.

SKeep all parts of your body away from the chain when the engine is running.

SKeep children, bystanders, and animals a minimum of 30 feet (10 meters) away from

the work area. Do not allow other people or animals to be near the chain saw when starting or operating the chain saw.

S Do not handle or operate a chain saw when you are fatigued, ill, or upset, or if you have taken alcohol, drugs, or medication. You must be in good physical condition and mentally alert. Chain saw work is strenuous. If you have any condition that might be aggravated by strenuous work, check with your doctor before operating a chain saw.

SCarefully plan your sawing operation in ad- vance. Do not start cutting until you have a clear work area, secure footing, and, if you are felling trees, a planned retreat path.

OPERATE YOUR SAW SAFELY

SDo not operate a chain saw with one hand. Serious injury to the operator, helpers, by- standers or any combination of these per- sons may result from one-handed opera- tion. A chain saw is intended for

two-handed use.

SOperate the chain saw only in a well-venti- lated outdoor area.

S Do not operate saw from a ladder or in a tree.

SMake sure the chain will not make contact with any object while starting the engine. Never try to start the saw when the guide

bar is in a cut.

SDo not put pressure on the saw at the end of the cut. Applying pressure can cause you to lose control when the cut is com-

pleted.

S Stop the engine before setting the saw down.

SDo not operate a chain saw that is dam- aged, improperly adjusted, or not com- pletely and securely assembled. Always

replace bar, chain, hand guard, or chain brake immediately if it becomes damaged, broken or is otherwise removed.

S With the engine stopped, hand carry the chain saw with the muffler away from your body, and the guide bar and chain to the rear, preferably covered with a scabbard.

MAINTAIN YOUR SAW IN GOOD

WORKING ORDER

SHave all chain saw service performed by a qualified service dealer with the exception of the items listed in the maintenance sec- tion of this manual. For example, if improp- er tools are used to remove or hold the fly-

wheel when servicing the clutch, structural damage to the flywheel can occur and cause the flywheel to burst.

S Make certain the saw chain stops moving when the throttle trigger is released. For correction, refer to CARBURETOR AD-

JUSTMENTS.

S Never modify your saw in any way.

S Keep the handles dry, clean, and free of oil or fuel mixture.

SKeep fuel and oil caps, screws, and fas- teners securely tightened.

SUse only Poulan accessories and replace- ment parts as recommended.

HANDLE FUEL WITH CAUTION

SDo not smoke while handling fuel or while operating the saw.

SEliminate all sources of sparks or flame in the areas where fuel is mixed or poured. There should be no smoking, open flames,

or work that could cause sparks. Allow en- gine to cool before refueling.

S Mix and pour fuel in an outdoor area on bare ground; store fuel in a cool, dry, well ventilated place; and use an approved, marked container for all fuel purposes. Wipe up all fuel spills before starting saw.

2

SMove at least 10 feet (3 meters) from fuel- ing site before starting engine.

S Turn the engine off and let saw cool in a non-combustible area, not on dry leaves, straw, paper, etc. Slowly remove fuel cap and refuel unit.

SStore the unit and fuel in an area where fuel vapors cannot reach sparks or open flames from water heaters, electric motors or switches, furnaces, etc.

KICKBACK

WARNING: Avoid kickback which

can result in serious injury. Kickback is the backward, upward or sudden forward motion of the guide bar occurring when the saw chain near the upper tip of the guide bar con- tacts any object such as a log or branch, or when the wood closes in and pinches the saw chain in the cut. Contacting a foreign ob- ject in the wood can also result in loss of chain saw control.

SRotational Kickback can occur when the moving chain contacts an object at the up- per tip of the guide bar. This contact can cause the chain to dig into the object, which stops the chain for an instant. The result is a lightning fast, reverse reaction which kicks the guide bar up and back to-

ward the operator.

SPinch-Kickback can occur when the the wood closes in and pinches the moving saw chain in the cut along the top of the guide bar and the saw chain is suddenly stopped. This sudden stopping of the chain results in a reversal of the chain force used to cut wood and causes the

saw to move in the opposite direction of the chain rotation. The saw is driven straight back toward the operator.

SPull-In can occur when the moving chain contacts a foreign object in the wood in the cut along the bottom of the guide bar and the saw chain is suddenly stopped. This sudden stopping pulls the saw forward and away from the operator and could easily cause the operator to lose control of the saw.

Avoid Pinch-Kickback:

S Be extremely aware of situations or ob- structions that can cause material to pinch the top of or otherwise stop the chain.

S Do not cut more than one log at a time. S Do not twist the saw as the bar is with-

drawn from an undercut when bucking.

Avoid Pull-In:

SAlways begin cutting with the engine at full speed and the saw housing against wood.

S Use wedges made of plastic or wood. Never use metal to hold the cut open.

Kickback Path

Avoid Obstructions

Clear The Working Area

REDUCE THE CHANCE OF

KICKBACK

S Recognize that kickback can happen. With a basic understanding of kickback, you can reduce the element of surprise which contributes to accidents.

S Never let the moving chain contact any ob- ject at the tip of the guide bar.

SKeep the working area free from obstruc- tions such as other trees, branches, rocks, fences, stumps, etc. Eliminate or avoid any obstruction that your saw chain could hit while you are cutting. When cutting a branch, do not let the guide bar contact

branch or other objects around it.

SKeep your saw chain sharp and properly tensioned. A loose or dull chain can in- crease the chance of kickback occurring. Follow manufacturer ???s chain sharpening and maintenance instructions. Check ten- sion at regular intervals with the engine stopped, never with the engine running.

Make sure the chain brake nuts are se- curely tightened after tensioning the chain.

S Begin and continue cutting at full speed. If the chain is moving at a slower speed, there is greater chance of kickback occur- ring.

S Cut one log at a time.

S Use extreme caution when re-entering a previous cut.

S Do not attempt cuts starting with the tip of the bar (plunge cuts).

SWatch for shifting logs or other forces that could close a cut and pinch or fall into

chain.

S Use the Reduced--Kickback Guide Bar and Low--Kickback Chain specified for your saw.

MAINTAIN CONTROL

Stand to the left of the saw

Thumb on underside of handlebar

Never reverse hand positions

3

Elbow locked

Thumb on underside of handlebar

SKeep a good, firm grip on the saw with both hands when the engine is running and don???t let go. A firm grip will help you reduce kickback and maintain control of the saw. Keep the fingers of your left hand encir- cling and your left thumb under the front handlebar. Keep your right hand com- pletely around the rear handle whether your are right handed or left handed. Keep your left arm straight with the elbow locked.

SPosition your left hand on the front handle- bar so it is in a straight line with your right hand on the rear handle when making bucking cuts. Never reverse right and left hand positions for any type of cutting.

SStand with your weight evenly balanced on both feet.

SStand slightly to the left side of the saw to keep your body from being in a direct line with the cutting chain.

SDo not overreach. You could be drawn or thrown off balance and lose control of the saw.

SDo not cut above shoulder height. It is diffi- cult to maintain control of saw above shoulder height.

KICKBACK SAFETY FEATURES

WARNING: The following features

are included on your saw to help reduce the hazard of kickback; however, such features will not totally eliminate this danger. As a chain saw user, do not rely only on safety de- vices. You must follow all safety precau- tions, instructions, and maintenance in this manual to help avoid kickback and other forces which can result in serious injury.

SReduced--Kickback Guide Bar, designed with a small radius tip which reduces the size of the kickback danger zone on the bar tip. A Reduced--Kickback Guide Bar has been demonstrated to significantly re- duce the number and seriousness of kick- backs when tested in accordance with safety requirements for gasoline powered chain saws as set by ANSI B175.1.

Reduced Kickback Symmetrical Guide Bar

Small Radius Tip

Symmetrical Guide Bar

Large Radius Tip

S Low--Kickback Chain, designed with a contoured depth gauge and guard link which deflect kickback force and allow wood to gradually ride into the cutter. Low-- Kickback Chain has met kickback per- formance requirements when tested on a representative sample of chain saws be- low 3.8 cubic inch displacement specified in ANSI B175.1.

Contoured Depth Gauge

Not a Low---Kickback Chain

S Front Hand Guard, designed to reduce the chance of your left hand contacting the chain if your hand slips off the front handle- bar.

SPosition of front and rear handlebars, de- signed with distance between handles and ???in-line??? with each other. The spread and ???in-line??? position of the hands provided by this design work together to give balance and resistance in controlling the pivot of the saw back toward the operator if kick- back occurs.

CHAIN BRAKE

SChain Brake, designed to stop the chain in the event of kickback.

WARNING: WE DO NOT REP-

RESENT AND YOU SHOULD NOT AS-

SUME THAT THE CHAIN BRAKE WILL

PROTECT YOU IN THE EVENT OF A KICKBACK. Kickback is a lightning fast ac- tion which throws the bar and rotating chain back and up toward the operator. Kickback can be caused by allowing contact of the bar tip in the danger zone with any hard object. Kickback can also be caused by pinching the saw chain along the top of the guide bar. This action may push the guide bar rapidly back toward the operator. Either of these events may cause you to lose control of the saw which could result in serious injury or even death. DO NOT RELY UPON ANY OF THE

DEVICES BUILT INTO YOUR SAW. YOU

SHOULD USE THE SAW PROPERLY AND CAREFULLY TO AVOID KICKBACK. Re- duced--kickback guide bars and low--kick- back saw chains reduce the chance and magnitude of kickback and are recom- mended. Your saw has a low kickback chain

4

and bar as original equipment. Repairs on a chain brake should be made by an autho- rized servicing dealer. Take your unit to the place of purchase if purchased from a ser- vicing dealer, or to the nearest authorized master service dealer.

S Tip contact in some cases may cause a lightning fast reverse REACTION, kicking the guide bar up and back toward the oper- ator.

SPinching the saw chain along the top of the guide bar may push the guide bar rapidly

back toward the operator.

SEither of these reactions may cause you to lose control of the saw which could result in serious injury.Do not rely exclusively upon the safety devices built into your saw.

NOTE: If this saw is to be used for commer- cial logging, a chain brake is required and shall not be removed or otherwise disabled to comply with Federal OSHA Regulations for Commercial Logging. Contact your Au- thorized Service Dealer or call 1--800--554--6423.

SAFETY NOTICE: Exposure to

vibrations through prolonged use of gasoline powered hand tools could cause blood vessel or nerve damage in the fingers, hands, and joints of people prone to circulation disorders or abnormal swellings. Prolonged use in cold weather has been linked to blood vessel damage in otherwise healthy people. If symptoms occur such as numbness, pain, loss of strength, change in skin color or texture, or loss of feeling in the fingers, hands, or joints, discontinue the use of this tool and seek medical attention. An anti-vibration system does not guarantee the avoidance of these problems. Users who operate power tools on a continual and regular basis must monitor closely their physical condition and the condition of this tool.

SPECIAL NOTICE: Your saw is equipped with a temperature limiting muffler and spark arresting screen which meets the requirements of California Codes 4442 and 4443. All U.S. forest land and the states of California, Idaho, Maine, Minnesota, New Jersey, Oregon, and Washington require by law that many internal combustion engines to be equipped with a spark arresting screen. If you operate a chain saw in a state or locale where such regulations exist, you are legally responsible for maintaining the operating condition of these parts. Failure to do so is a violation of the law. Refer to the SERVICE section for maintenance of the spark arresting screen.

STANDARDS: This saw is listed by Un- derwriter???s Laboratories, Inc., in accordance with American National Standards for Gaso- line--Powered Chain Saw Safety Require- ments (ANSI B175.1-1991).

Failure to follow all Safety Rules and Precau- tions can result in serious injury. If situations occur which are not covered in this manual, use care and good judgement. If you need

assistance, contact your Authorized Service Dealer or call 1-800--554--6723.

Protective gloves (not provided) should be worn during assembly.

ATTACHING THE BAR & CHAIN (If not

already attached)

WARNING: If received assembled,

repeat all steps to ensure your saw is prop- erly assembled and all fasteners are secure. Always wear gloves when handling the chain. The chain is sharp and can cut you even when it is not moving!

SLoosen and remove the chain brake nuts and the chain brake from the saw.

S Remove the plastic shipping spacer (if present).

Location of shipping spacer

SAn adjusting pin and screw is used to ad- just the tension of the chain. It is very im- portant when assembling the bar, that the pin located on the adjusting screw aligns into a hole in the bar. Turning the screw will move the adjustment pin up and down the screw. Locate this adjustment before you begin mounting the bar onto the saw (see illustration).

Inside view of

Chain Brake

Adjustment located on Chain Brake

S Turn the adjusting screw counterclock- wise to move the adjusting pin almost as far as it will go to the rear. This should allow the pin to be near the correct position. Fur- ther adjustment may be necessary as you mount the bar.

S Mount the bar as illustrated.

SSlide the bar toward the rear of the saw as far as possible.

SPrepare the chain by checking the proper direction. Without following the illustration it is easy to place the chain on the saw in the wrong direction. Use the illustration of the chain to determine the proper direc- tion.

5

SPlace the chain onto the sprocket located behind the clutch drum (see illustration). Fit the chain between the teeth in the

sprocket.

S Start at the top of the bar and fit chain into groove around the guide bar.

S Pull the bar forward until the chain is snug in the groove of the bar.

SHold guide bar against the saw frame and install the chain brake. Make sure the ad- justing pin is aligned with the hole in the bar. Remember this pin moves the bar for-

ward and backward as the screw is turned.

SReplace the chain brake nuts and tighten finger tight. Once the chain is tensioned you will need to tighten chain brake nuts.

Mount the Bar

Tip of Bar

Proper chain direction

Adjusting the tension:

Chain tension is very important. Chain stretches during use. This is especially true during the first few times you use your saw. Always check chain tension each time you use and refuel your saw.

You can adjust the chain tension by loosen- ing the chain brake nuts and turning the ad- justing screw 1/4 of a turn while lifting up on the bar.

SIf chain is too tight, turn adjusting screw 1/4 turn counterclockwise.

SIf chain is too loose, turn adjusting screw 1/4 turn clockwise.

Adjusting

Screw

Adjusting Screw -- 1/4 Turn

Place chain onto the sprocket

CHAIN TENSION (Including units with chain already installed)

NOTE: When adjusting chain tension, make sure the chain brake nuts are finger tight only. Attempting to tension the chain when the chain brake nuts are tight can cause damage.

Checking the tension:

Use the screwdriver end of the chain adjust- ment tool (bar tool) to move the chain around the bar. If the chain does not rotate, it is too tight. If too loose, the chain will sag below the bar.

6

S Lift up the tip of the bar and tighten the chain brake nuts with the bar tool.

S Recheck chain tension.

Chain Brake Nuts

WARNING: If the saw is operated

with a loose chain, the chain could jump off the guide bar and result in serious injury.

KNOW YOUR SAW

READ THIS OPERATOR???S MANUAL AND SAFETY RULES BEFORE OPERATING YOUR CHAIN SAW. Compare the illustrations with your unit to familiarize yourself with the location of the various controls and adjustments. Save this manual for future reference.

Throttle Choke/ Chain Chain Chain Brake Nuts Guide Bar

Trigger Fast Idle Brake Catcher

Lever

ON/STOP SWITCH

The ON/STOP SWITCH is used to stop the engine.

THROTTLE TRIGGER

The THROTTLE TRIGGER controls engine speed.

THROTTLE LOCKOUT

The THROTTLE LOCKOUT must be pressed before you can squeeze the throttle trigger. This feature prevents you from accidentally squeezing the trigger.

CHOKE/FAST IDLE LEVER

The choke and fast idle are set by pulling the CHOKE/FAST IDLE LEVER out fully for cold or refueled starting. The choke provides addi- tional fuel to the engine during cold starting.

PRIMER BULB

The PRIMER BULB circulates fuel to the carburetor to provide quicker starting.

CHAIN BRAKE

The CHAIN BRAKE is a device designed to stop the chain if kickback occurs. The chain brake activates automatically in the event of kickback. The chain brake activates manu- ally if the front hand guard is pushed forward. The chain brake is disengaged by pulling the front hand guard back toward the front han- dle as far as possible.

CHAIN TENSION

It is normal for a new chain to stretch during first 30 minutes of operation. You should check your chain tension frequently. See CHAIN TENSION under the SERVICE AND AD- JUSTMENTS section.

WARNING: Muffler is very hot dur- ing and after use. Do not touch the muffler or allow combustible material such as dry grass or fuel to do so.

7

WARNING: Remove fuel cap slowly when refueling.

FUELING ENGINE

This engine is certified to operate on unleaded gasoline. Before operation, gasoline must be mixed with a good quality synthetic 2-cycle air-cooled engine oil designed to be mixed at a ratio of 40:1. Poulan/Weed Eater brand synthetic oil is recommended. (A 40:1 ratio is obtained by mixing 3.2 ounces of oil with 1 gallon of unleaded gasoline). DO NOT USE automotive or boat oil. These oils will cause engine damage. When mixing fuel follow the instructions printed on the container. Always read and follow the safety rules listed under

HANDLE FUEL WITH CAUTION.

BAR AND CHAIN LUBRICATION

The bar and chain require continuous lubri- cation. Lubrication is provided by the auto- matic oiler system when the oil tank is kept filled. Lack of oil will quickly ruin the bar and chain. Too little oil will cause overheating shown by smoke coming from the chain and/ or discoloration of the bar.

In freezing weather oil will thicken, making it necessary to thin bar and chain oil with a small amount (5 to 10%) of #1 Diesel Fuel or kerosene. Bar and chain oil must be free flowing for the oil system to pump enough oil for adequate lubrication.

Genuine PoulanR bar and chain oil is recommended to protect your unit against excessive wear from heat and friction. PoulanR oil resists high temperature thinning. If PoulanR bar and chain oil is not available, use a good grade SAE 30 oil.

SNever use waste oil for bar and chain lubri- cation.

S Always stop the engine before removing the oil cap.

IMPORTANT

Experience indicates that alcohol--blended fuels (called gasohol or using ethanol or methanol) can attract moisture which leads to separation and formation of acids during storage. Acidic gas can damage the fuel system of an engine while in storage. To avoid engine problems, the fuel system should be emptied before storage for 30 days or longer. Drain the gas tank, start the engine and let it run until the fuel lines and carburetor are empty. Use fresh fuel next season. See STORAGE section for addi- tional information.

BURETOR ADJUSTMENT within this manual. Avoid contact with the muffler. A hot muffler can cause serious burns.

To stop the engine move the ON/STOP switch to the STOP position.

To start the engine hold the saw firmly on the ground as illustrated. Make sure the chain is free to turn without contacting any object.

Use only 15???---18??? of rope per pull. Hold saw firmly while pulling starter rope

Starter rope handle

Left hand on front handle

Right foot through rear handle

IMPORTANT POINTS TO REMEMBER

When pulling the starter rope, do not use the full extent of the rope as this can cause the rope to break. Do not let starter rope snap back. Hold the handle and let the rope rewind slowly.

For cold weather starting, start the unit at FULL CHOKE; allow the engine to warm up before squeezing the throttle trigger.

NOTE: Do not cut material with the choke/ fast idle lever at the FULL CHOKE position.

STARTING A COLD ENGINE (or warm engine after running out of fuel):

NOTE: In the following steps, when the choke/fast idle lever is pulled out to the full extent, the correct throttle setting for starting is set automatically.

S Move ON/STOP switch to the ON position. S Pull out choke/fast idle to the full extent. S Slowly press primer bulb 6 times.

SPull the starter rope quickly with your right hand 5 times, then push the choke/fast idle lever in completely (to the OFF position).

SPull the starter rope quickly with your right hand until the engine starts.

SAllow the engine to run for approximately 5 seconds. Then, squeeze and release throttle trigger to allow engine to return to idle speed.

ON/STOP

Switch

Primer

Bulb

ON/STOP SWITCH

8

CHOKE

(SIDE VIEW)

STARTING A WARM ENGINE:

S Move ON/STOP switch to the ON position.

SPull the choke/fast idle lever out to the full extent, then push the lever back in com-

pletely (to the OFF position).

S Slowly press the primer bulb 6 times.

SPull the starter rope quickly with your right hand until the engine starts.

S Squeeze and release throttle trigger, al- lowing engine to idle.

DIFFICULT STARTING (or starting a flooded engine):

The engine may be flooded with too much fuel if it has not started after 10 pulls.

Flooded engines can be cleared of excess fuel by following the warm engine starting procedure listed above. Insure the ON/ STOP switch is in the ON position.

Starting could require pulling the starter rope handle many times depending on how badly the unit is flooded. If engine fails to start, refer to the TROUBLESHOOTING TABLE or call 1-800-554-6723.

CHAIN BRAKE

WARNING: WE DO NOT REP-

RESENT AND YOU SHOULD NOT AS-

SUME THAT THE CHAIN BRAKE WILL

PROTECT YOU IN THE EVENT OF A KICKBACK. Kickback is a lightning fast ac- tion which throws the bar and rotating chain back and up toward the operator. Kickback can be caused by allowing contact of the bar tip in the danger zone with any hard object. Kickback can also be caused by pinching the saw chain along the top of the guide bar. This action may push the guide bar rapidly back toward the operator. Either of these events may cause you to lose control of the saw which could result in serious injury or even death. DO NOT RELY UPON ANY OF THE

DEVICES BUILT INTO YOUR SAW. YOU

SHOULD USE THE SAW PROPERLY AND CAREFULLY TO AVOID KICKBACK. Re- duced--kickback guide bars and low--kick- back saw chains reduce the chance and magnitude of kickback and are recom- mended. Your saw has a low kickback chain and bar as original equipment. If the brake band is worn too thin it may break when the chain brake is triggered. With a broken brake band, the chain brake will not stop the chain. The chain brake should be replaced by an authorized service dealer if any part is worn to less than 1/32??? thick. Repairs on a chain brake should be made by an authorized ser- vice dealer. Take your unit to the place of pur- chase if purchased from a servicing dealer,

9

or to the nearest authorized master service dealer.

SThis saw is equipped with a chain brake. The brake is designed to stop the chain if

kickback occurs.

S The inertia--activated chain brake is activated if the front hand guard is pushed forward, either manually (by hand) or automatically (by sudden movement).

S If the brake is already activated, it is disengaged by pulling the front hand guard back toward the front handle as far as possible.

S When cutting with the saw, the chain brake must be disengaged.

Disengaged

Engaged

Braking function control

CAUTION: The chain brake must be checked several times daily. The engine must be running when performing this proce- dure. This is the only instance when the saw should be placed on the ground with the en- gine running.

Place the saw on firm ground. Hold the han- dles with both hands and apply full throttle. Activate the chain brake by turning your left wrist against the hand guard without releas- ing your grip around the front handle. The chain should stop immediately.

Inertia activating function control

WARNING: When performing the

following procedure, the engine must be turned off.

Hold the chain saw approximately 14??? (35 cm) above a stump or other wooden surface. Release your grip on the front handle and use the weight of the saw to let the top of the guide bar fall forward and contact the stump. When the tip of the bar hits the stump, the brake should activate.

IMPORTANT POINTS

SCheck chain tension before first use and after 1 minute of operation. See CHAIN TENSION in the ASSEMBLY section.

SCut wood only. Do not cut metal, plastics, masonry, non-wood building materials, etc.

SStop the saw if the chain strikes a foreign object. Inspect the saw and repair or re-

place parts as necessary.

SKeep the chain out of dirt and sand. Even a small amount of dirt will quickly dull a chain and thus increase the possibility of kick-

back.

SPractice cutting a few small logs using the following techniques to get the ???feel??? of us-

ing your saw before you begin a major sawing operation.

SSqueeze the throttle trigger and allow the engine to reach full speed before

cutting.

SBegin cutting with the saw frame against the log.

S Keep the engine at full speed the en- tire time you are cutting.

SAllow the chain to cut for you. Exert only light downward pressure. If you force the cut, damage to the bar,

chain, or engine can result.

SRelease the throttle trigger as soon as the cut is completed, allowing the en- gine to idle. If you run the saw at full throttle without a cutting load, unnec- essary wear can occur to the chain, bar, and engine. It is recommended that the engine not be operated for longer than 30 seconds at full

throttle.

S To avoid losing control when cut is complete, do not put pressure on saw at end of cut.

S Stop the engine before setting the saw down after cutting.

TREE FELLING TECHNIQUES

WARNING: Check for broken or

dead branches which can fall while cutting causing serious injury. Do not cut near build- ings or electrical wires if you do not know the direction of tree fall, nor cut at night since you will not be ale to see well, nor during bad weather such as rain, snow, or strong winds, etc.

SCarefully plan your sawing operation in ad- vance.

SClear the work area. You need a clear area all around the tree so you can have secure

footing.

S Study the natural conditions that can cause the tree to fall in a particular direc- tion.

Natural conditions that can cause a tree to fall in a particular direction include:

S The wind direction and speed.

S The lean of the tree. The lean of a tree might not be apparent due to uneven or sloping terrain. Use a plumb or level to de- termine the direction of tree lean.

S Weight and branches on one side. S Surrounding trees and obstacles.

Look for decay and rot. If the trunk is rotted, it can snap and fall toward the operator. Check for broken or dead branches which can fall on you while cutting.

Make sure there is enough room for the tree to fall. Maintain a distance of 2-1/2 tree lengths from the nearest person or other ob- jects. Engine noise can drown out a warning call.

Remove dirt, stones, loose bark, nails, sta- ples, and wire from the tree where cuts are to be made.

Plan a clear retreat path to the rear and diag- onal to the line of fall.

Plan a clear retreat path

Direction of Fall

45_

FELLING LARGE TREES

(6 inches in diameter or larger)

The notch method is used to fell large trees. A notch is cut on the side of the tree in the de- sired direction of fall. After a felling cut is made on the opposite side of tree, the tree will tend to fall into the notch.

NOTE: If the tree has large buttress roots,

remove them before making the notch. If using saw to remove buttress roots, keep saw chain from contacting ground to pre- vent dulling of the chain.

NOTCH CUT AND FELLING THE

TREE

S Make notch cut by cutting the top of the notch first. Cut through 1/3 of the diameter of the tree. Next complete the notch by cut- ting the bottom of the notch. See illus- trated. Once the notch is cut remove the notch of wood from the tree.

SAfter removing the cutout of wood, make the felling cut on the opposite side of the notch. This is done by making a cut about two inches higher than the center of the notch. This will leave enough uncut wood between the felling cut and the notch to form a hinge. This hinge will help prevent the tree from falling in the wrong direction.

Final (felling) cut here. 2 inches above center of notch.

First cut

Notch

Hinge holds tree on stump and helps control fall

Opening of felling cut

Closing of notch

10

NOTE: Before felling cut is complete, use

wedges to open the cut when necessary to control the direction of fall. To avoid kickback and chain damage, use wood or plastic wedges, but never steel or iron wedges.

SBe alert to signs that the tree is ready to fall: cracking sounds, widening of the fell- ing cut, or movement in the upper

branches.

SAs tree starts to fall, stop saw, put it down, and get away quickly on your planned re-

treat path.

S DO NOT cut down a partially fallen tree with your saw. Be extremely cautious with partially fallen trees that may be poorly supported. When a tree doesn???t fall com- pletely, set the saw aside and pull down the tree with a cable winch, block and tackle, or tractor.

CUTTING A FALLEN TREE

(BUCKING)

Bucking is the term used for cutting a fallen tree to the desired log size.

WARNING: Do not stand on the log

being cut. Any portion can roll causing loss of footing and control. Do not stand downhill of the log being cut.

IMPORTANT POINTS

S Cut only one log at a time.

SCut shattered wood very carefully; sharp pieces of wood could be flung toward oper-

ator.

SUse a sawhorse to cut small logs. Never allow another person to hold the log while cutting and never hold the log with your leg

or foot.

S Do not cut in an area where logs, limbs, and roots are tangled such as in a blown down area. Drag the logs into a clear area before cutting by pulling out exposed and cleared logs first.

TYPES OF CUTTING USED FOR

BUCKING

WARNING: If saw becomes pinched or hung in a log, don???t try to force it out. You can lose control of the saw resulting in injury and/or damage to the saw. Stop the saw, drive a wedge of plastic or wood into the cut until the saw can be removed easily. Re- start the saw and carefully reenter the cut. To avoid kickback and chain damage, do not use a metal wedge. Do not attempt to restart your saw when it is pinched or hung in a log.

Use a wedge to remove pinched saw

Turn saw OFF and use a plastic or wooden wedge to force cut open.

When overcutting use light downward pres- sure.

Overcutting Undercutting

Undercutting involves cutting on the under- side of the log with top of saw against the log. When undercutting use light upward pres- sure. Hold saw firmly and maintain control. The saw will tend to push back toward you.

WARNING: Never turn saw upside down to undercut. The saw cannot be con- trolled in this position.

Always make your first cut on the compres- sion side of the log. The compression side of the log is where the pressure of the log???s weight is concentrated.

First cut on compression side of log

Second cut

Second cut

First cut on compression side of log

BUCKING WITHOUT A

SUPPORT

SOvercut through 1/3 of the diameter of the log.

SRoll the log over and finish with a second overcut.

SWatch for logs with a compression side to prevent the saw from pinching. See illustra- tion for cutting logs with a compression side.

BUCKING USING A LOG OR

SUPPORT STAND

SRemember your first cut is always on the compression side of the log.

(Refer to the illustration below for your first and second cut)

S Your first cut should extend 1/3 of the diameter of the log.

S Finish with your second cut.

Using a log for support 2nd Cut

11

1st Cut

2nd Cut

Using a support stand

2nd Cut

1st Cut

1st Cut

2nd Cut

LIMBING AND PRUNING

WARNING: Be alert for and guard

against kickback. Do not allow the moving chain to contact any other branches or objects at the nose of the guide bar when limbing or pruning. Allowing such contact can result in serious injury.

WARNING: Never climb into a tree

to limb or prune. Do not stand on ladders, platforms, a log, or in any position which can cause you to lose your balance or control of the saw.

IMPORTANT POINTS

S Work slowly, keeping both hands firmly gripped on the saw. Maintain secure foot- ing and balance.

S Watch out for springpoles. Springpoles are small size limbs which can catch the saw chain and whip toward you or pull you off balance. Use extreme caution when cutting small size limbs.

S Be alert for springback. Watch out for branches that are bent or under pressure. Avoid being struck by the branch or the saw when the tension in the wood fibers is released.

SKeep a clear work area. Frequently clear branches out of the way to avoid tripping over them.

LIMBING

SAlways limb a tree after it is cut down. Only then can limbing be done safely and prop-

erly.

S Leave the larger limbs underneath the felled tree to support the tree as you work.

SStart at the base of the felled tree and work toward the top, cutting branches and

limbs. Remove small limbs with one cut. S Keep the tree between you and the chain.

Cut from the side of the tree opposite the branch you are cutting.

SRemove larger, supporting branches with the cutting techniques described in BUCK-

ING WITHOUT A SUPPORT.

S Always use an overcut to cut small and freely hanging limbs. Undercutting could cause limbs to fall and pinch the saw.

PRUNING

WARNING: Limit pruning to limbs

shoulder height or below. Do not cut if branches are higher than your shoulder. Get a professional to do the job.

SMake your first cut 1/3 of the way through the bottom of the limb.

SNext make a 2nd cut all the way through the limb. Then cut a third overcut leaving a 1 to 2 inch collar from the truck of the tree.

Second cut

Third cut

Collar

First cut

Pruning technique

WARNING: Disconnect the spark

plug before performing maintenance except for carburetor adjustments.

We recommend all service and adjustments not listed in this manual be performed by an authorized or Master Service Dealer.

12

MAINTENANCE SCHEDULE

Lubricate bar

sprocket hole . . . . . . . After each use

Check:

Fuel mixture level . . . . Before each use Bar lubrication . . . . . . . Before each use Chain tension . . . . . . . Before each use Chain sharpness . . . . Before each use For damaged parts . . Before each use For loose caps . . . . . . Before each use For loose fasteners. . . Before each use For loose parts . . . . . . Before each use

Inspect and Clean:

Bar . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Before each use Complete saw. . . . . . . After each use Air filter . . . . . . . . . . . . . Every 5 hours* Chain brake . . . . . . . . Every 5 hours* Spark arrestor screen

and muffler . . . . . . . . . Every 25 hours*

Replace spark plug . Yearly

Replace fuel filter . . . Yearly

* Hours of Operation

AIR FILTER

CAUTION: Do not clean filter in gasoline or other flammable solvent to avoid creating a fire hazard or producing harmful evapora- tive emissions.

Cleaning the air filter:

A dirty air filter decreases engine perform- ance and increases fuel consumption and harmful emissions. Always clean after every 5 hours of operation.

SClean the cover and the area around it to keep dirt and sawdust from falling into the carburetor chamber when the cover is re-

moved.

S Remove the parts as illustrated below. S Wash the filter in soap and water.

CLEANING THE SPARK ARREST-

ING SCREEN

Cleaning is required every 25 hours of op- eration or annually, whichever comes first.

Outlet

Guide

SLoosen and remove the locknut from the bolt cover.

S Remove the bolt cover.

S Loosen and remove the 2 muffler bolts. Remove the muffler, muffler gasket, outlet guide and backplate. Notice the orienta- tion of these parts for reassembling.

S Locate the 2 outlet cover screws on the muffler. Loosen and remove both screws.

S Remove the outlet cover.

S Remove spark arresting screen.

SClean the spark arresting screen with a wire brush. Replace screen if any wires are bro-

ken or screen is blocked after cleaning. S Reinstall spark arresting screen.

S Reinstall outlet cover and 2 screws. En- sure outlet cover and both screws are re- installed correctly (see illustrations) to pre- vent damage to the saw. The exhaust outlet must face the chain brake (bar side) of the saw.

Exhaust

Outlet Cover

Outlet

INSPECT MUFFLER AND SPARK

ARRESTING SCREEN

WARNING: The muffler on this

product contains chemicals known to the State of California to cause cancer.

As the unit is used, carbon deposits build up on the muffler and spark arresting screen, and must be removed to avoid creating a fire hazard or affecting engine performance.

Replace the spark arresting screen if breaks occur.

Exhaust Outlet must face chain brake (bar side) of chain saw

S Inspect the muffler gasket and replace if damaged.

S Reinstall backplate, outlet guide, muffler gasket, and muffler using muffler bolts. Tighten until secure.

S Reinstall bolt cover and locknut.

CARBURETOR ADJUSTMENTS

Your carburetor is equipped with limiter caps. Carburetor adjustment is a compli- cated task. We recommend that you take

13

your unit to an Authorized Service Dealer. Damage will occur if you turn the needles be- yond the limiter stops.

BAR MAINTENANCE

If your saw cuts to one side, has to be forced through the cut, or been run with an improper amount of bar lubrication it may be neces- sary to service your bar. A worn bar will dam- age your chain and make cutting difficult.

After each use, ensure ON/STOP switch is in the STOP position, then clean all sawdust from the guide bar and sprocket hole.

To maintain guide bar:

S Move ON/STOP switch to the STOP posi- tion.

S Loosen and remove chain brake nuts and chain brake. Remove bar and chain from saw.

S Clean the oil holes and bar groove after each 5 hours of operation.

Remove Sawdust From

Guide Bar Groove

Sprocket Hole

Oil Holes

S Add lubricant to sprocket hole after each use.

S Burring of guide bar rails is a normal process of rail wear. Remove these burrs with a flat file.

SWhen rail top is uneven, use a flat file to re- store square edges and sides.

File Rail Edges

and Sides

Square

Replace guide bar when the groove is worn, the guide bar is bent or cracked, or when excess heating or burring of the rails occurs. If replacement is necessary, use only the guide bar specified for your saw in the repair parts list or on the decal located on the chain saw.

CHAIN SHARPENING

Chain sharpening is a complicated task that requires special tools. We recommended you refer chain sharpening to a professional chain sharpener.

IGNITION TIMING

Ignition timing is fixed and nonadjustable.

SPARK PLUG

The spark plug should be replaced each year to ensure the engine starts easier and runs better.

S Loosen 3 screws on cylinder cover.

S Remove the cylinder cover.

S Pull off the spark plug boot.

SRemove spark plug from cylinder and dis- card.

SReplace with Champion RCJ--7Y spark plug and tighten with a 3/4 inch socket wrench (10-12 ft/lbs). Spark plug gap

should be 0.025 inches.

S Reinstall the spark plug boot.

SReinstall the cylinder cover and 3 screws (15-20 in/lbs).

WARNING: Stop engine and allow

to cool, and secure the unit before storing or transporting in a vehicle. Store unit and fuel in an area where fuel vapors cannot reach sparks or open flames from water heaters, electric motors or switches, furnaces, etc. Store unit with all guards in place. Position so that any sharp object cannot accidentally cause injury to passersby. Store the unit out of reach of children.

SBefore storing, drain all fuel from the unit. Start engine and allow to run until it stops.

SClean the unit before storing. Pay particu- lar attention to the air intake area, keeping it free of debris. Use a mild detergent and

sponge to clean the plastic surfaces.

SDo not store the unit or fuel in a closed area where fuel vapors can reach sparks or an open flame from hot water heaters, electric

motors or switches, furnaces, etc.

SStore in a dry area out of the reach of chil- dren.

CAUTION: It is important to prevent gum de-

posits from forming in essential fuel system parts such as the carburetor, fuel filter, fuel hose, or fuel tank during storage. Alcohol blended fuels (called gasohol or using ethanol or methanol) can attract moisture which leads to fuel mixture separation and formation of acids during storage. Acidic gas can damage the engine.

NEED ASSISTANCE?

Call 1--800--554--6723.

NEED SERVICE PART?

Contact your dealer or place of purchase.

14

TROUBLESHOOTING TABLE

WARNING: Always stop unit and disconnect spark plug before performing all of the recommended remedies below except remedies that require operation of the unit.

ELECTROLUX HOME PRODUCTS NORTH AMERICA, Division of WCI Out- door Products, Inc., warrants to the original

purchaser that each new Poulan or Poulan Pro brand gasoline chain saw is free from de- fects in material and workmanship and agrees to repair or replace under this war- ranty any defective gasoline chain saw as follows from the original date of purchase.

1 YEAR - Parts and Labor, when used for Household purposes.

60 DAYS - Parts and Labor, when used for Commercial, Professional, or Income Produc- ing purposes.

30 DAYS - Parts and Labor, if used for rental purposes.

This warranty is not transferable and does not cover damage or liability caused by improper handling, improper maintenance, or the use of accessories and/or attachments not specifical- ly recommended by ELECTROLUX HOME PRODUCTS NORTH AMERICA for this chain saw. Additionally, this warranty does not cover damage caused by improper handling, improp- er maintenance, or if the saw is altered in any way which in our judgement affects its condi- tion or operation. This warranty does not cover tune--up, spark plugs, filters, starter ropes, starter springs, chain sharpening, bars, chains, and other parts which wear and require re- placement with reasonable use during the war- ranty period. This warranty does not cover pre- delivery set--up, installation of guide bar and chain, and normal adjustments explained in the operator???s manual such as carburetor adjust- ments and chain tension adjustments. This warranty does not cover transportation costs.

THIS WARRANTY GIVES YOU SPECIFIC

LEGAL RIGHTS, AND YOU MAY HAVE

OTHER RIGHTS WHICH VARY FROM

STATE TO STATE.

NO CLAIMS FOR CONSEQUENTIAL OR

OTHER DAMAGES WILL BE ALLOWED,

AND THERE ARE NO OTHER EXPRESS

WARRANTIES EXCEPT THOSE EXPRESS-

LY STIPULATED HEREIN.

SOME STATES DO NOT ALLOW LIMITA-

TIONS ON HOW LONG AN IMPLIED WAR-

RANTY LASTS OR THE EXCLUSION OR

LIMITATIONS OF INCIDENTAL OR CONSE-

QUENTIAL DAMAGES, SO THE ABOVE

LIMITATIONS OR EXCLUSION MAY NOT

APPLY TO YOU.

ELECTROLUX HOME PRODUCTS NORTH AMERICA???S policy is to continuously improve its products. Therefore, ELECTROLUX HOME PRODUCTS NORTH AMERICA re- serves the right to change, modify, or discontin- ue models, designs, specifications, and acces- sories of all products at any time without notice or obligation to any purchaser.

YOUR WARRANTY RIGHTS AND OBLIGA- TIONS: The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency/California Air Resources Board and

POULAN/WEED EATER, DIVISION OF WCI OUTDOOR PRODUCTS are pleased to ex- plain the emissions control system warranty on your year 2000--2003 small off--road engine. In California, all new small off--road engines must be designed, built, and equipped to meet the State???s stringent anti--smog standards. POU- LAN/WEED EATER must warrant the emis- sion control system on your small off--road en- gine for the periods of time listed below provided there has been no abuse, neglect, or improper maintenance of your small off--road engine engine. Your emission control system

15

includes parts such as the carburetor and the ignition system. Where a warrantable condition exists, POULAN/WEED EATER will repair your small off--road engine engine at no cost to you. Expenses covered under warranty in- clude diagnosis, parts and labor. MANUFAC- TURER???S WARRANTY COVERAGE: If any emissions related part on your engine (as listed under Emissions Control Warranty Parts List) is defective or a defect in the materials or work- manship of the engine causes the failure of such an emission related part, the part will be repaired or replaced by POULAN/WEED EAT-

ER. OWNER???S WARRANTY RESPONSIBI- LITIES: As the small off--road engine engine owner, you are responsible for the perfor- mance of the required maintenance listed in your Owner???s Manual. POULAN/WEED EAT- ER recommends that you retain all receipts covering maintenance on your small off--road engine, but POULAN/WEED EATER cannot deny warranty solely for the lack of receipts or for your failure to ensure the performance of all scheduled maintenance. As the small off-- road engine engine owner, you should be aware that POULAN/WEED EATER may deny you warranty coverage if your small off-- road engine engine or a part of it has failed due to abuse, neglect, improper maintenance, un- approved modifications, or the use of parts not made or approved by the original equipment manufacturer. You are responsible for present- ing your small off--road engine to a POULAN/ WEED EATER authorized repair center as soon as a problem exists. Warranty repairs should be completed in a reasonable amount of time, not to exceed 30 days. If you have any questions regarding your warranty rights and responsibilities, you should contact your near- est authorized service center or call POULAN/ WEED EATER at 1--800--554--6723. WAR- RANTY COMMENCEMENT DATE: The warranty period begins on the date the small off--road engine is purchased. LENGTH OF COVERAGE: This warranty shall be for a peri- od of two years from the initial date of pur- chase. WHAT IS COVERED: REPAIR OR REPLACEMENT OF PARTS. Repair or re- placement of any warranted part will be per- formed at no charge to the owner at an ap- proved POULAN/WEED EATER servicing center. If you have any questions regarding your warranty rights and responsibilities, you

should contact your nearest authorized service center or call POULAN/WEED EATER at 1--800--554--6723 WARRANTY PERIOD: Any warranted part which is not scheduled for replacement as required maintenance, or which is scheduled only for regular inspection to the effect of ???repair or replace as necessary??? shall be warranted for 2 years. Any warranted part which is scheduled for replacement as re- quired maintenance shall be warranted for the period of time up to the first scheduled replace- ment point for that part. DIAGNOSIS: The owner shall not be charged for diagnostic labor which leads to the determination that a war- ranted part is defective if the diagnostic work is performed at an approved POULAN/WEED EATER servicing center. CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES: POULAN/WEED EATER may be liable for damages to other engine compo- nents caused by the failure of a warranted part still under warranty. WHAT IS NOT COV- ERED: All failures caused by abuse, neglect, or improper maintenance are not covered.

ADD-ON OR MODIFIED PARTS: The use of add--on or modified parts can be grounds for disallowing a warranty claim. POULAN/WEED EATER is not liable to cover failures of war- ranted parts caused by the use of add--on or modified parts. HOW TO FILE A CLAIM: If you have any questions regarding your war- ranty rights and responsibilities, you should contact your nearest authorized service center or call POULAN/WEED EATER at 1--800--554--6723. WHERE TO GET WAR- RANTY SERVICE: Warranty services or re- pairs shall be provided at all POULAN/WEED EATER service centers. call: 1--800--554--6723 MAINTENANCE, RE-

PLACEMENT AND REPAIR OF EMISSION

RELATED PARTS: Any POULAN/WEED

EATER approved replacement part used in the performance of any warranty maintenance or repair on emission related parts will be pro- vided without charge to the owner if the part is under warranty. EMISSION CONTROL

WARRANTY PARTS LIST: Carburetor, Igni-

tion System: Spark Plug (covered up to main- tenance schedule), Ignition Module, Muffler in- cluding catalyst. MAINTENANCE STATEMENT: The owner is responsible for the performance of all required maintenance as defined in the owner???s manual.

This engine is certified to be emissions compliant for the following use:

Moderate (50 hours)

Intermediate (125 hours) Extended (300 hours)

16