How To Start a Poulan Chainsaw Like a Pro: 7 Steps Guide

Are you a beginner in the world of chainsaws and looking for an easy and straightforward guide on how to start a Poulan chainsaw?

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If so, then this beginner’s guide is perfect for you! In this article, we will cover the steps needed to start a Poulan chainsaw for the first time.

You may face problems such as a clogged carburetor, flooded engine, or spark plug issues when starting up a Poulan chainsaw for the first time, so we will also be providing information on troubleshooting and tips to keep your chainsaw running smoothly.

Choosing the Right Fuel and Oil to Start a Poulan Chainsaw

The most important step in starting your Poulan chainsaw is to make sure you are using the right fuel and oil mixture.

It is essential to use the two-cycle oil that was specifically designed for this particular model.

Equipment needed:

Bar and Chain Oil to lubricate the chain
Instruction manual
Engine Oil

Safety Protection

Before you attempt to start your Poulan chainsaw, make sure that you wear the necessary safety gear. Learn more about chainsaw safety.

It is important to always wear:

Safety glasses for eye protection
heavy boots,
Safety Helmet
Hand Gloves
First Aid Kit
Chainsaw Chaps/Pants
Appropriate hearing protection.

Checking the Fuel Level of Your Chainsaw

Before starting a Poulan chainsaw, fill the fuel tank with fresh, unleaded gasoline and make sure that the fuel level is at or above the 1/4 mark for optimal performance.

If you need to replenish your fuel, make sure to use the correct two-cycle oil for your particular model. Use the correct ratio of oil and gas mixture, as well as replace the fuel filter.

How to Start a Poulan Chainsaw – 8 Steps Process

To start your Poulan chainsaw:

Step 1: To start your Poulan chainsaw, begin by engaging the chain brake. Push forward on the brake handle with your hand and ensure that it is properly engaged before proceeding.
Step 2: Next, put your right foot through the rear handle and securely place your left hand on the front handle of the chainsaw.
Step 3: Move the ignition switch to the “on” position and
Step 4: Press down on the primer bulb five or six times in rapid succession. While doing so, squeeze and hold down the throttle trigger, located near where your thumb rests when gripping firmly onto the chainsaw’s handles, while pushing down on the fast idler lock, found near where your thumb rests as well.
Step 5: Using your right hand, grasp onto the starter handle and pull it towards you repeatedly, up to five times; however, if at any point during this process, you hear a sound similar to that of an engine trying to start before completing all five pulls, then immediately stop pulling and release.
Step 6: Next, allow the engine to run for five or six seconds, then release and squeeze again on the trigger so that it runs at idle speed.
Step 7: Finally, push inward on the choke lever so that it is in its full position.

Things to Consider When Engine Doesn’t Start

Checking the Spark Plug

It is important to check the spark plug regularly for wear and tear.

If the spark plug is dirty or worn out, it should be replaced with a new one. Otherwise, wash and clean it with a rag.

Clean the air filters

After every 10 hours of use, make sure to clean the air filter of your chainsaw and remove the dirt and debris so that the machine can get proper air to run efficiently.

Read User Manual before Starting

It is always recommended to read the user manual provided by the machine before operating it.

This will help you understand how the machine works and will also provide you with all the safety tips and instructions to ensure a safe operation.

How to Start Electric Chainsaw?

To start an electric chainsaw:

1. Just like a gasoline chainsaw, disengage the chain brake by pushing the brake handle forward.

2. Press the safety button with your thumb.

3. Squeeze the trigger switch with your index finger and keep squeezing it to operate the saw.

How Do You Start a Chainsaw That Has Been Sitting?

There can be reasons such as old gas, a clogged carburetor, and a dirty air filter that cause the chainsaw to not start. But you can fix this issue by replacing the old one in a few simple steps.

i) Take off the gas tank lid and put a few BBs inside the gas tank.

ii) Then put on the gas tank lid and shake your chainsaw vigorously.

iii) Take off the gas tank lid again and pour out the BBs and the old gas.

iii) Finally, flush out your gas tank with a cleaner.

iv) Replace old gas with fresh gasoline.

Following these steps will ensure that your chainsaw is properly prepared and ready to start.

How to Start a Poulan Chainsaw FAQs

How Many Pulls Should It Take To Start a Chainsaw?

Starting a chainsaw can take between 1 and 5 pulls, depending on the model and age of the machine. In most cases, the chainsaw should start at the fifth pull.

Why are Poulan chainsaws so hard to start?

Poulan chainsaws may be difficult to start due to several reasons. One of the most common reasons is that dirt and other things in the fuel have clogged up the carburetor, which can prevent starting the engine.

If the carburetor is clogged, clean it to resolve the issue. Other reasons for difficulty starting a Poulan chainsaw include dirty spark plugs, and low-quality or old fuel.

Learn more about adjusting the carburetor.

How to start the flooded engine?

If you smell gasoline when you pull the starter cord, it is likely that your engine has become flooded. To start it again, wait 15-20 minutes for the fuel to evaporate, and then try pulling the cord.

The better way to start a flooded engine is by turning off the choke, activating the fast idle, and switching on the on/off switch. Then, firmly hold the saw on the ground as you would normally and pull the starter rope in short, brisk pulls until the saw starts.

Wrap Up

Poulan chainsaws are sturdy and reliable machines, but they can be difficult to start at times. Knowing how to start a Poulan chainsaw is essential for any user or operator.

By following the given steps and tips, one can ensure a successful start every time.

Charlie Bass

Charlie has been a mechanic for over 25 years and has worked on everything from small engine gardening equipment to huge diesel-electric mining haul trucks, trains and even aircraft. This broad range of industry experience gives him a unique insight into almost anything mechanical especially with an engine, including gardening and landscaping equipment. He currently owns his own mobile mechanic business and lives with his family in Australia.

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