Poulan Pro 18" Replacement Chain Saw Cutting Chain (Model 51338) Instruction Manual

1. Introduction

This manual provides essential instructions for the safe and effective installation, operation, and maintenance of your Poulan Pro 18-inch Replacement Chain Saw Cutting Chain, Model 51338. Adhering to these guidelines will help ensure optimal performance and extend the life of your chain.

2. Safety Information

Always prioritize safety when working with chainsaw components. Failure to follow safety precautions can result in serious injury.

• Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): Always wear appropriate PPE, including safety glasses, hearing protection, heavy-duty gloves, and sturdy footwear, when handling or installing chainsaw chains.
• Chainsaw Preparation: Before any installation or maintenance, ensure the chainsaw engine is turned off, cool, and the spark plug cap is disconnected to prevent accidental starting.
• Chainsaw Manual: Refer to your chainsaw's main instruction manual for comprehensive safety guidelines specific to your chainsaw model.
• Sharp Edges: Chainsaw chains have sharp cutting edges. Handle with extreme care to avoid cuts.

3. Product Overview

The Poulan Pro 18-inch Replacement Chain Saw Cutting Chain is engineered for reliable cutting performance. It features a 3/8-inch pitch and a 0.050-inch gauge, designed to fit various chainsaw models requiring an 18-inch chain with these specifications.

Compatible Chainsaw Models: This chain is suitable for use with Poulan, Poulan Pro, Craftsman, Husqvarna, and Jonsered chainsaws, including specific models such as 2155, 2175, 2300, 2375, 2400, 2450, 2500, 2550, 2555, 2600, P260, P-3818AV, 3818WT, 4018WT, 4018AV & 4018AVBH, PPB-1838, 4018 & 4218, PP-4018, 4018WTL, 4218AV, 4218AVX & 4218AVL & SM4218AV.

Image 1: Poulan Pro 18-inch Replacement Chain Saw Cutting Chain in its retail packaging, highlighting the brand, chain length, and compatibility information.

4. Setup and Installation

Follow these steps to safely install your new replacement chain:

1. Prepare the Chainsaw: Ensure the chainsaw engine is off and cool. Disconnect the spark plug wire to prevent accidental starting.
2. Remove the Bar Cover: Loosen the bar nuts and carefully remove the side cover that secures the guide bar and chain.
3. Remove Old Chain: Carefully remove the old chain from the guide bar and drive sprocket. Observe the direction of the old chain's cutters for correct installation of the new chain.
4. Install New Chain: Place the new Poulan Pro chain onto the drive sprocket. Guide the chain around the nose of the guide bar and into the groove along the bar. Ensure the cutting edges of the chain are facing the correct direction (typically forward on the top of the bar).
5. Reinstall Bar Cover: Position the guide bar correctly and replace the side cover. Hand-tighten the bar nuts initially.
6. Adjust Chain Tension: Adjust the chain tensioning screw until the chain is snug against the bottom of the guide bar, but can still be pulled freely by hand. There should be no slack on the underside of the bar. A properly tensioned chain will have the drive links fully seated in the bar groove, and you should be able to pull the chain around the bar with light effort.
7. Final Tightening: While holding the nose of the guide bar up, fully tighten the bar nuts. Recheck chain tension after tightening to ensure it remains correct.
8. Reconnect Spark Plug: Reconnect the spark plug wire.

5. Operating Instructions

Before each use of your chainsaw with the new chain, perform the following checks:

• Chain Tension: Verify that the chain tension is correct. An improperly tensioned chain can derail, cause excessive wear, or lead to injury.
• Chain Sharpness: Ensure the chain cutters are sharp. A dull chain requires more effort to cut, increases fuel consumption, and can cause kickback.
• Lubrication: Confirm that the chainsaw's automatic oiling system is functioning and the oil reservoir is filled with appropriate bar and chain oil. Proper lubrication is crucial for chain and bar longevity.
• Chainsaw Operation: Always operate the chainsaw according to its manufacturer's instructions and safety guidelines.

6. Maintenance

Regular maintenance is essential for the performance and safety of your chainsaw chain.

• Sharpening: Regularly sharpen the chain cutters to maintain optimal cutting performance and safety. Refer to your chainsaw's manual or consult a professional for specific sharpening angles and tools.
• Cleaning: After each use, clean debris, sawdust, and resin from the chain, guide bar groove, and sprocket area. This prevents buildup that can impede chain movement and lubrication.
• Lubrication: Continuously monitor the chainsaw's automatic oiler to ensure it is delivering sufficient oil to the chain and guide bar. Keep the oil reservoir filled with quality bar and chain oil.
• Inspection: Periodically inspect the chain for stretched links, cracks, broken rivets, or other signs of damage. Also, check the guide bar for burrs or uneven wear. Replace the chain if any significant damage is found, as a damaged chain can be dangerous.

7. Troubleshooting

Addressing common issues related to your chainsaw chain:

• Chain not cutting efficiently: This is often due to a dull chain. Check chain sharpness and sharpen if necessary. Also, verify correct chain tension and ensure the cutters are facing the proper direction.
• Chain smoking or overheating: Insufficient lubrication or incorrect chain tension can cause this. Verify proper chain lubrication and tension. A dull chain can also generate excessive heat.
• Chain coming off the bar: This issue is frequently caused by incorrect chain tension (too loose) or a worn guide bar/sprocket. Ensure the chain is tensioned correctly and inspect the guide bar and sprocket for wear or damage.
• Excessive vibration: An unbalanced or damaged chain, or a dull chain, can cause excessive vibration. Inspect the chain for damage and ensure it is sharp and properly tensioned.

8. Specifications

9. Warranty and Support

For specific warranty information regarding your Poulan Pro 18-inch Replacement Chain Saw Cutting Chain, please refer to the documentation included with your purchase or visit the official Poulan Pro website. Keep your purchase receipt as proof of purchase for any warranty claims.

For additional support or inquiries, you may contact Poulan Pro customer service directly or visit their official brand store: Poulan Pro Store.