Poulan 295 TYPE 4 Owner’s Manual

PoulanPRO

Instruction Manual

Manual de Instrucciones

Manuel d'lnstructions

WARNING:

,&

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

295

ADVERTENCIA:

Lea el manual de instrucciones y siga todas las advertencias een-

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

AVERTISSEMENT:

l_ire le manuel d'instructions et bien respecter tous les avertisse-
ments et toutes les instructions de s_curit_. Tout d_faut de le faire

pourrait entrafner des blessures graves.

Electrolux Home Products, Inc.
250 Bobby Jones Expressway
Augusta, GA 30907

[] Ftorn the EtectroluxGroup. The world's No.l choice,

Copyright _2003 Etectrolux Home Products, Inc. 530163893 2/21/03

I_ITCH_N,CLE,_N/NGAN_OUTDOOR,_p,'_NCESCOt4_NEIJ

Electrolux Canada Corporation

6150 McLaughlin Road

Mississauga, Ontario L5R 4C2

WARNINGt This chain

saw can be dangerous! Care-
lessor improperuse can cause
sedous or even fatal injury.

Always wear appropdate ear protection, eye protection and head protection.

Always use two hands when operating the chain saw.

Read and understand the
instruction manual before
using the chain saw.

WARNINGt Contacting the guide bar tip with any object

should be avoided; tip contact may cause the guide bar to

move suddenly upward and backward, which may cause se-
rious injury.

Measured maximum kickback value without chain brake for the bar
and chain combination on the label.

_ 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-

catting 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

• Read this manual carefully until you com-
pletely understand and can follow all safety

rules, precautions, and operating instruc-
tions before attempting to use the unit.

• Restrict the use of your saw to adult users
who understand and can follow safety
rules, precautions, and operating instruc-

tions found in this manual.

• Wear protective gear. Always use steel-toed
safety footwear with non-slip soles; snug-fit-
ting clothing; heavy-dL_y, non-slip gloves;
eye protection such as non-fogging, vented
goggles or face screen; an approved safety
hard hat; and sound barriers (ear plugs or
mufflers) to protect your headng. Regular
users should have headng checked regular-
ly as chain saw noise can damage headog.
Secure hair above shoulder length.

Hearing Safety Hat

Protection _Eye

Snug

• Keep all parts of your body away from the

• Keep children, bystanders, and animals a

• Do not handle or operate a chain saw

"_l O'IP_ Protection

Clothing Gloves

Safety Safety Chaps
Shoes

chain when the engine is running.
minimum of 30 feet (1g 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.
when you are fatigued, ill, or upset, or ifyou

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.

Heavy Duty

• Carefullyplanyoursawingoperationinad-
vance.Donotstartcuttinguntilyouhavea
clearworkarea,securefooting,and,ifyou
arefellingtrees,aplannedretreatpath.

OPERATE YOUR SAW SAFELY

• Do 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.

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

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

• Make 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.

• Do 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.

• Stop the engine before setting the saw
down.

• Do 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.

• 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

• Have 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. Forexample, 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.

• Make certain the saw chain stops moving
when the throttle trigger is released. For

correction, refer to CARBURETOR AD-
JUSTMENTS.

• Never modify your saw in any way.

• Keep the handles dry, clean, and free ofoil
or fuel mixture.

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

• Use only Poulan PRO@ accessories and
replacement parts as recommended.

HANDLE FUEL WITH CAUTION

• Do not smoke while handling fuel or while
operating the saw.

• Eliminate all sources of sparks or flame in
the areas where fuel is mixed or poured.
There should be no smoking, open flames,
or workthat could cause sparks. Allow en-
gine to cool before refueling.

• 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 aUfuel spills before starting saw.

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

• 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.

• Store 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

_kWARNING: 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.

• Rotational 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.

• Pinch-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.

• Pull-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:

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

• Do not cut more than one log at a time.

• Do not twist the saw as the bar is with-
drawn from an undercut when bucking.

Avoid Pull-In:

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

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

Kickback Path

Clear The Working Area

REDUCE THE CHANCE OF
KICKBACK

• Recognize that kickback can happen.

With a basic understanding of kickback,
you can reduce the element of surprise

which contributes to accidents.

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

• Keep 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.

• Keep 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.

• Begin and continue cutting at full speed. If

the chain is moving at a slower speed,
there is greater chance of kickback occur-
ring.

• Cut one log at a time.

• Use extreme caution when re-entering a

previous cut.

• DO not attempt cuts starting with the tip of

the bar (plunge cuts).

• Watch for shifting logs or other forces that

could close a cut and pinch or fall into
chain.

• Use the Reduced-Kickback Guide Bar

and Low-Kickback Chain specified for
your saw.

MAINTAIN CONTROL

Stand to the

[

II Thumb on

left of the_

Never reverse _

hand positions

| underside of
k handlebar

Elbow locked

Thumb on underside of
handlebar

• Keep 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
looked.

• Position 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.

• Stand with yoor weight evenly balanced on
both feet.

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

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

saw.

• Do 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.

• Reduced-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

_'--__'_I Ra_io_Tip

Large Radius Tip

• 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 GaL_ge

_£k Elongated Guard LinkDeflects

Low- KJckback

Chain to gradually ride

_""_"_,_Can Obstruct MateriaJ

Not a Low- KJckback Chain

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

bar.

• Position 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 AND CKA ANGLE

• Chain 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

ickback force

and allows

into cutter

wood

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. 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.

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

ator.

• Pinching the saw chain along the top of the
guide bar may push the guide bar rapidly
back toward the operator.

• Either ofthese reactions maycauseyouto
lose control of the saw which could result

in serious injury.Do not rely exclusively
upon the safety devices built into your saw.

_WARNING: Computed kickback

angle (CKA) listed on your saw and listed in
the CKA table below represents angle of
kickback your bar and chain combinations

will have when tested in accordance with
CSA (Canadian Standards Association) and

ANSI standards. When purchasing replace-
ment bar and chain, considerations should
be given to the lower CKA values. Lower
CKA values represent safer angles to the
user, higher values indicate more angle and
higher kick energies. Computed angles rep-

resented in the non-activated column indi-
cate total energy and angle associated with-

out activation of the chain brake during
kickback. Activated angle represents chain
stopping time relative to activation angle of
chain brake and resulting kick angle of saw.
in all cases lower CKA values represent a
safer operating environment for the user.

The following guide bar and chain combina-
tions meet kickback requirements of CSA

Z62.1, Z62.3, & ANSI B175.1 when used on

saws listed in this manual. Use of bar and
chain combinations other than those listed is

not recommended and may not meet the
CKA requirements per standard.

Computed kickback angle (CKA) Table

MODEL P/N BA_D = CHAIN P/N

I I

295 952044815 I 20" J 952051310

CKA without chain brake

31°

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.
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 toss of feeling in the fingers, hands, or joints,
discontinue the use of this tool and seek

medical attention. An antiwibration 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.
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.
STANDARDS: This saw is listed by Under-

writer's Laboratories, Inc., in accordance with:
ANSI BI75.f-2860 American National
Standards for Gasoline-Powered Chain

Saws - Safety Requirements
CSA Z62.1-1995 Chain Saws - Occupa-
tional Health and Safety

CSA Z62.3-1996 Chain Saw Kickback Oc-
cupational Health and Safety

chain. The chain is sharp and can cut you
even when it is not moving!

1. Loosen and remove the chain brake nuts

and the chain brake from the saw.

2. Remove the plastic shipping spacer (if

present).

Location of shipping spacer

Ch Nuts

ChanBak

Bar Tool

Turn adjusting screw on bar counter-
clockwise to move the tensioning rack as
far as it will go toward the front of the bar,

_ o _ Adjusting

] ( _ _ Screw

Tensioning Rack _,//_ '_

4,

Slide the bar behind clutch drum until bar
stops against clutch drum sprocket.

_t the bar

5. Prepare 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. Usethe iUustration ofthe
chain to determine the proper direction.

rof

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

ATTACHING THE BAR & CHAIN (If not
already attached)

_ WARNING: If receivod assembled,
repeat all steps to ensure yoursaw is prop-

erly assembled and all fasteners aresecure.
Always wear gloves when handling the

DIIRECTION OF ROTATION

Cutters Depth Gauge

Drive Links "/_

6. Placethechainoverandbehindthe
clutch,fittingthedrivelinksintheclutch

drumsprocket.

Placechainontothesprocket

7. Fitbottomofdrivelinksbetweenthe

teethinthesprocketinthenoseofthe
guidebar.

8. Fitchaindrivelinksintobargroove.

9. Pullthebarforwarduntilthechainis
snuginthegrooveofthebar.Ensureall

drivelinksareinthebargroove.

10.Holdguidebaragainstthesawframe

andinstallthechainbrake.

11.Replacethechainbrakenutsandtighten

fingertight.Oncethe chainisten-

sioned,youwillneedtotightenchainbra-

kenuts.

CHAINTENSION (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.

Chain Brake Nuts Tool (Bar Tool)

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.

An adjusting screw (located on the guide
bar) is used to adjust the tension of the chain

(see illustration).

• Loosen the chain brake nuts.

• Turn adjusting screwclockwise until chain
solidly contacts bottom of guide bar rail.

• Using the screwdriver end of the bar tool,
roll chain around guide bar to ensure all
links are in bar groove.

• Lift uptip of guide bar tocheck for sag. Re-
lease tip of guide bar, then turn adjusting
screw until sag does not exist.

• Tighten chain brake nuts securely with the
bar tool.

Chain Brake

• Use the screwdriver end of the bar tool to
move chain around guide bar.

• If chain does not rotate, it is too tight.
Slightly loosen chain brake nuts and loos-
en chain by turning the adjusting screw.
Retighten chain brake nuts.

• If chain is too loose, it will sag below the
guide bar. DO NOT operate the saw if the

chain is loose.

Guide bar

_1_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 INSTRUCTION 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.

Chain Adjus[men[ Front Hand Guard

Tool _ Starter Rope

fBar Tool_

Chain

Throttle
LOCK-OUt

Rear \ Adjusting of Chain
Handle Screw Travel

Throttle
Trigger

Choke/Fast
Idle Lever

ONISTOP SWITCH
The ON/STOP SWITCH is used to stop the

engine.

THROTTLE TRIGGER
The THROTTLE TRIGGER controls engine

speed.
THROTTLE LOCK- OUT
The THROTTLE LOCK-OUT must be
pressed before you can squeeze the throttle

trigger. This feature prevents you from acci-
dentally squeezing the trigger,

CHOKE/FAST IDLE LEVER
The choke and fast idle speed are set by pull-

ing the CHOKE/FAST IDLE LEVER out fully
for cold or for refueled starting, The choke

provides additional fuel to the engine during
cold starting.

Cy inder Cover

/ Chain Brake

Muffler Switch

Front Handle

ON/STOP

Chain Brake Nuts

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 in the ASSEMBLY sec-
tion.

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.

Guide Bar

WARNING: Remove fuel cap slow-

ly 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.
PoulanANeed Eater brand synthetic oil is
recommended. Mix gasoline and oil at aratio
of 40:1. A40:1 ratio is obtained by mixing 3.2
ounces of oil with 1 gallon of unleaded
gasoline. Included with this saw is a 3.2

ounce container of oil. Pour the entire
contents of this container into 1 gallon of

gasoline to achieve the proper fuel mixture.
DO NOT USE automotive oil or boat oil. These

oils will cause engine damage. When mixing
fuel, follow instructions printed on container.

Once oil is added to gasoline, shake container
momentarily to assure that the fuel is
thoroughly mixed. Always read and follow the

safety rules relating to fuel before fueling your

unit.

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 ofoil 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 Poulan or Poulan PRO® bar and
chain oil is recommended to protect your unit

against excessive wear from heat and
friction. Poulan orPoulan PRO® oil resists

high temperature thinning. If Poulan or
Poulan PRO® bar and chain oil is not

available, use a good grade SAE 30 oil.

• Never use waste oil for bar and chain lubri-
cation.

• 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.

_WARNING:

move when the engine runs at idle speed. If
the chain moves at idle speed refer to CAR-

BURETOR ADJUSTMENT within this
manual. Avoid contact with the muffler. Ahot
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

_( _\'_ _1" Left hand

The chain must not

front

Right foot through rear handle

IMPORTANT POINTS TO REMEMBER
When pullin£_the starter rope, do not use the

full extent otthe 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.

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

2. Pull the choke/fast idle lever out to the full
extent.

3. Pull starter rope quickly with your right
hand a maximum of 10 times. Then, pro-
ceed to the next step.

NOTE: If the engine sounds as if it is trying
to start before the 10th pull, stop pulling and

immediately proceed to the next step.

4. Push the choke/fast idle lever in com-
pletely (to the OFF CHOKE position).

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

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

Disengaged

_ Engaged

CHOKE/FAST IDLE LEVER

STARTING A WARM ENGINE

1. MeveON/STOPswitchtotheONposifino.

2. Pull the choke/fast idle lever out tothe full
extent; then, push the lever back in com-

pletely (to the OFF CHOKE position). This

will set the fast idle locktothestart position.

3. Pull the starter rope quickly with your right
hand untilthe engine starts.

4. Squeeze and release the throttle trigger

to allow engine to return to idle speed.

DIFFICULT STARTING (or starting a

flooded engine)
The engine may be flooded if it has not started

after 10 pulls.
Flooded engines can be cleared of excess fuel

by following the warm engine starting proce-
dure listed above. Ensure the ON/STOP

switch is in the ON position.
Starting could require many pulls depending on
how badly unit is flooded. If engine still fails to

start, refer to TROUBLESHOOTING TABLE
or cell 1-800-554-6723.

CHAIN BRAKE

_ WARNING: If the brake baed isworn

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 0.020"
(0.5 mm) thick. Repairs on a chain brake
should be made by an aL_horized service deal-

er. Take your unit to the place of purchase if
purchased from a servicing dealer, or to the

nearest authorized master service dealer.

• This saw is equipped with a chain brake.

The brake is designed to stop the chain if
kickback occurs.

• The inertia-activated chain brake is

activated if the front hand guard is pushed
forward, either manually (by hand) or
automatically (by sudden movement).

• If the brake is already activated, it is

disengaged by pulling the front hand guard
back toward the front handle as far as

possible.

• When cutting with the saw, the chain brake

must be disengaged.

Braking function control
CAUTION: The chain brake must be

checked several times daily. The engine must
be running when performing this procedure.
This is the only instance when the saw should
be placed on the ground with the engine run-
ning.

Place the saw on firm ground. Grip the rear
handle with your right hand and the front han-
dle with your left hand. Apply full throttle by

fully depressing the throttle trigger. Activate
the chain brake by turning your left wrist
against the hand guard without releasing
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.

Grip the rear handle with your right hand and
the front handle with your left hand. 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

• Check chain tension before first use and
after 1 minute of operation. See CHAIN

TENSION in the ASSEMBLY section.

• Cut wood only. Do not cut metal, plastics,
masonry, non-weed building materials,

etc.

• Stop the saw if the chain strikes a foreign
object. Inspect the saw and repair or re-
place parts as necessary.

• Keep the chain OL_of dirt and sand. Even a
small amount of dirt will quickly dull a chain
and thus increase the possibility of kickback.

• Practice 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.

• Squeeze the throtUe tdgger ned allow the

engine to reach full speed before CL_ting.

• Begin cutting with the saw frame

against the log.

• Keep the engine at full speed the entire

time you are cutting.

• Allow the chain to cut for yoc. Exert only

light downward pressure. If you force
the cut, damage to the bar, chain, or en-
gine can result.

lO

• Releasethethrottletriggerassoonas
thecutiscompleted,allowingtheen-
ginetoidle.Ifyourunthesawatfull
throttlewithoutacuttingload,unneces-
sarywearcanoccurtothechain,bar,
andengine.

• Toavoidlosingcontrolwhencutiscom-
plete,donotputpressureonsawatend

ofcut.

• Stoptheenginebeforesettingthesaw
downaftercutting.

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. If the tree makes contact with any utility
line, the utility company should be notified
immediately.

• Carefully planyoursawingoperation inad-
vance.

• Clear the work area. You need aclear area
all around the tree so you can have secure

footing.

• 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:

• The wind direction and speed.

• 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.

• Weight and branches on one side.

• Surrounding trees and obstacles.

Look for decay and rot Ifthetrunk isrotted,
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

-,%

;t.... £)--"""_- Direction of Fall

/÷#"

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 us-

ing saw to remove buttress roots, keep saw
chain from contacting ground to prevent dull-

ing of the chain.

NOTCH CUT AND FELLING THE

TREE

• Make notch cut by cutting the top of the
notch first. Cut through 1/3of the diameter
of the tree. Next complete the notch by cut-
ting the bottom of the notch. See illustra-

tion. Once the notch is cut, remove the
notch of wood from the tree.

Final cut here. 2 _nches above

F ret cut center, "P!, _,'q-iof notch.,J I /

Notch : .... _/--

..... __2"

Second cut

• After removir the wood from the notch,
make the fellin 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 pre-
vent the tree from falling inthe wrong direc-

tion.

Hinge holds tree on stump and helps

control fall

Opening
of felling

cut

Closing of
notch

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.

• Be aled to signs that the tree is ready to fall:
cracking sounds, widening of the felling cut,
or movement in the upper branches.

• As tree starts to fall, stop saw, put it down,
and get away quickly on your planned re-
treat path.

11

• DO NOT cut down a partially fallen tree
with your saw. Be extremely cautious with
partially fallen trees that may be poorly
supported. When e 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.

_1_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

• Cut only one log at a time.

• Cut shattered wood very carefully; sharp
pieces of wood could be flung toward oper-
ator.

• Use 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.

• 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 aod/or damage tothe 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_hed saw

,i_ WARNING: Never turn saw ogside

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

• Overcut through 1/3of the diameter of the
log.

• Roll the log over and finish with a second
overcut,

• Watch for logs with a compression side to
prevent the saw from pinching. See il-
lustrations for cutting logs with a compres-

sion side.

BUCKING USING A LOG OR
SUPPORT STAND

• Remember your first cut is always on the
compression side of the log. (Refer to the
illustrations below for your first and second
cut)

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

• Finish with your second cut.

Using a log for support

Turn

saw OFF and use a plastic or

wooden wedge to force cut open.

Overcutting begins on the top side of the log
with the bottom of the saw against the log.

When overcutfing 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.

- ]stCu t

%,

2nd Cut 7_

12