Poulan 20 Inch Chainsaw – Master Your Woodcutting And Land Management
Managing a homestead or clearing a backcountry trail requires a tool that balances power with accessibility. You need a reliable partner that can handle thick trunks and heavy storm cleanup without weighing you down. This guide will help you master the poulan 20 inch chainsaw so you can tackle demanding woodcutting tasks with total confidence.
We will explore everything from the initial assembly to advanced maintenance techniques used by seasoned outdoorsmen. You will learn how to keep your engine screaming, your chain biting, and your workspace safe. By the end of this article, you will have the skills to maintain your equipment and process timber like a pro.
Whether you are a first-time owner or an experienced traveler looking to upgrade your off-grid kit, these insights ensure peak performance. We focus on practical, hands-on advice that prioritizes your safety and the longevity of your saw. Let’s dive into the world of high-capacity cutting and land self-reliance.
Table of Contents
Getting Started with Your Poulan 20 inch chainsaw
Unboxing a new saw is an exciting moment for any homesteader or adventurer. The poulan 20 inch chainsaw is designed for mid-to-heavy duty work, making it a staple for those who need to manage large properties. Before you pull the starter cord, you must ensure the unit is assembled correctly and safely.
Start by inspecting the guide bar and the saw chain for any shipping damage. Lay the power head on a flat surface and remove the side cover nuts. Ensure the tensioning pin aligns perfectly with the hole in the guide bar to prevent mechanical failure during your first cut.
Slide the chain over the drive sprocket and into the bar groove. Wear heavy-duty gloves during this process to protect your hands from the sharp cutters. Once the bar and chain are seated, replace the side cover and finger-tighten the nuts before adjusting the tension.
Correct Chain Tensioning Techniques
A chain that is too loose can fly off the bar, while one that is too tight will burn out your engine. To find the “sweet spot,” pull the chain away from the bar in the middle of the span. It should snap back into place but still allow you to pull it around the bar freely by hand.
Always check your tension frequently during the first half-hour of use. New chains tend to stretch as they heat up and “break in.” Keep your scrench (the combination screwdriver and wrench) in your pocket for quick adjustments in the field.
Fueling and Lubrication Requirements
Most modern Poulan models utilize a 2-cycle engine that requires a specific mix of gasoline and oil. Use high-quality unleaded gasoline mixed with 2-cycle air-cooled engine oil at a 50:1 ratio. Avoid using fuel with more than 10% ethanol, as it can damage the internal seals and carburetor.
In addition to the engine fuel, your saw needs bar and chain oil. This lubricant prevents friction from overheating the metal components. Fill the bar oil reservoir every time you refill the gas tank to ensure the chain never runs dry.
Operating Your Saw Like an Expert
Starting a gas-powered saw requires a specific rhythm and respect for the machine’s power. Place the saw on level ground and put your right foot through the rear handle to stabilize it. This “ground start” method is the safest way for beginners and intermediates to initiate the engine.
Engage the chain brake by pushing the front hand guard forward before you pull the starter rope. Set the choke to the full position and pull the rope until the engine “pops” or tries to start. Once that happens, move the choke to the half-way position and pull again until it runs smoothly.
Let the engine idle for a minute to reach operating temperature. Squeeze the trigger a few times to ensure the throttle response is crisp. If the engine bogs down or dies, you may need to check the air filter or the spark plug gap.
Mastering the Three Basic Cuts
The first skill to learn is bucking, which means cutting a fallen log into smaller sections. Always stand to the side of the cut line, never directly behind the saw. This position protects you in case the saw kicks back toward your shoulder.
The second skill is limbing, or removing branches from a downed tree. Work from the base of the tree toward the top. Use the tree trunk as a shield between yourself and the saw blade whenever possible to maximize your safety.
Felling is the most advanced skill and involves cutting down a standing tree. Always plan two escape routes at 45-degree angles away from the direction of the fall. If you are unsure about the lean of a tree, consult a professional before making your notch cut.
Understanding Kickback and How to Prevent It
Kickback occurs when the upper quadrant of the bar nose hits an object or gets pinched in the wood. This causes the bar to fly upward and backward with incredible force. To prevent this, never cut with the kickback zone of the guide bar nose.
Keep a firm, two-handed grip on the saw at all times. Your left arm should be straight with the elbow locked to provide better control if the saw moves suddenly. Modern saws feature an inertia-activated chain brake designed to stop the chain instantly during a kickback event.
Essential Maintenance for Longevity
To keep your poulan 20 inch chainsaw running for years, you must commit to a regular maintenance schedule. A clean saw is a safe saw, and a sharp saw is an efficient one. After every use, take five minutes to wipe down the power head and clear debris from the cooling fins.
Remove the side cover and clean out the packed sawdust and oil “gunk” that accumulates around the sprocket. This buildup can interfere with the oiler and cause the chain to overheat. Use a small brush or compressed air to keep these tight spaces clear.
Check the air filter every few hours of operation. If it looks clogged with fine dust, wash it in warm, soapy water or replace it entirely. A dirty filter starves the engine of oxygen, leading to poor performance and increased fuel consumption.
How to Sharpen the Chain Properly
A dull chain forces you to push the saw into the wood, which is dangerous and exhausting. You know it is time to sharpen when the saw produces fine dust instead of large wood chips. Use a round file of the correct diameter (usually 3/16 inch for these models).
File each cutter from the inside out, maintaining a 30-degree angle. Count your strokes to ensure you remove the same amount of metal from every tooth. This keeps the chain balanced and prevents the saw from “pulling” to one side during a cut.
Managing the Guide Bar
The guide bar wears down over time, especially on the rails where the chain slides. Every time you sharpen or replace the chain, flip the bar over. This ensures even wear on both sides and extends the life of the hardware significantly.
Use a flat file to remove any burrs or sharp edges that develop along the rails. If the groove becomes too shallow or the rails spread apart, the chain will wobble. At this point, it is safer to replace the bar entirely to maintain cutting precision.
Troubleshooting Common Engine Issues
Even the best tools can have “off” days, especially when working in extreme temperatures or high altitudes. If your saw refuses to start, the first thing to check is the spark plug. Remove it and look for carbon buildup or a “wet” tip, which indicates a flooded engine.
If the engine starts but dies when you give it gas, you likely have a fuel delivery problem. Check the fuel lines for cracks or soft spots. Modern fuels containing ethanol can cause these lines to degrade and collapse over time, starving the engine of its mix.
Adjusting the carburetor may be necessary if you change altitudes significantly. Most saws have three adjustment screws: Low-speed (L), High-speed (H), and Idle (T). Unless you are experienced with small engine repair, make only very small, 1/8-turn adjustments at a time.
Cleaning the Spark Arrestor Screen
The spark arrestor is a small wire screen located inside the muffler. Its job is to catch hot embers before they exit the exhaust and start a fire. Over time, this screen can become “carboned up” and choke the engine’s exhaust flow.
Remove the muffler cover and pull out the screen. Clean it with a wire brush or a torch to burn off the carbon deposits. If the screen is torn or has holes, replace it immediately to stay compliant with Forest Service fire safety regulations.
Cold Weather Starting Tips
In freezing temperatures, the oil in your fuel mix becomes thicker and harder to move. Keep your saw in a heated garage or the cab of your truck until you are ready to use it. Use the primer bulb six to eight times to ensure the carburetor is fully primed with fresh fuel.
Once the saw starts, let it warm up at a fast idle for several minutes. This allows the metal components to expand and the lubricants to flow freely. Cutting with a “cold” engine can lead to premature piston wear and cylinder scoring.
Safety Protocols for the Modern Woodsman
Safety is not just about gear; it is about a mindset of constant awareness. Before you even pull the starter, look up. Check for widowmakers—dead branches hanging loosely in the canopy that could fall on you while you are working below.
Always maintain a “circle of safety” around your workspace. No other person or pet should be within twice the height of the tree you are cutting. If you are working near a road or trail, use bright orange cones or signs to alert others to the falling hazard.
Never operate a chainsaw when you are tired, frustrated, or under the influence of medication. A 20-inch saw is a heavy tool that requires physical stamina and mental focus. If you feel your grip weakening or your focus slipping, it is time to take a break.
The Essential PPE Checklist
Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) is non-negotiable when using a poulan 20 inch chainsaw. Start with chainsaw chaps made of ballistic nylon. These fibers are designed to wrap around the sprocket and stop the chain instantly if it touches your leg.
- Safety Glasses: Protect your eyes from high-velocity wood chips.
- Hearing Protection: Chainsaws operate at decibel levels that can cause permanent hearing loss.
- Hard Hat: Essential when working under standing timber or in storm-damaged areas.
- Steel-Toed Boots: Provides grip on uneven terrain and protects your feet from falling logs.
Handling Fuel and Fire Hazards
Gasoline is highly volatile, and a hot chainsaw engine can act as an ignition source. Always move at least 10 feet away from your fueling area before starting the saw. Wipe up any spilled fuel on the power head immediately to prevent a flash fire.
Keep a small fire extinguisher or a shovel nearby when working in dry conditions. The heat from the muffler can ignite dry grass or leaves if you set the saw down while it is still hot. Always place the saw on bare dirt or a rock when taking a break.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Poulan 20 inch chainsaw
How often should I replace the chain on my saw?
You should replace the chain when the cutters are worn down to the “wear mark” or if the chain has been damaged by hitting rocks or metal. A chain that has been sharpened many times may also become brittle. Regular inspection is key to knowing when to swap for a new one.
Can I use a shorter bar on a 20-inch model?
Yes, many users swap the 20-inch bar for an 18-inch bar for smaller tasks. A shorter bar allows the engine to run at higher RPMs and makes the saw feel more balanced for limbing. However, never exceed the 20-inch maximum recommended by the manufacturer.
Why does my saw leak oil when it is sitting in the garage?
Most chainsaws “weep” a small amount of bar oil as the temperature changes and the tank vents. This is generally normal. To prevent a mess, store your saw on a piece of cardboard or a dedicated plastic tray. Ensure the oil cap is tight and the vent is not clogged.
What is the best way to store my saw for the winter?
Drain the fuel tank and run the engine until it dies to clear the carburetor. This prevents the fuel from turning into a “varnish” that clogs the internal jets. Store the saw in a dry, well-ventilated area away from any corrosive chemicals or fertilizers.
Conclusion: Building Confidence in the Wild
Mastering a high-capacity tool like the poulan 20 inch chainsaw is a rite of passage for many outdoor enthusiasts. It transforms you from someone who merely visits nature into someone who can actively manage and thrive within it. By following these maintenance and safety steps, you ensure your tool is always ready for the next adventure.
Remember that woodcutting is a skill that takes time to perfect. Start with small, manageable logs before moving on to large-diameter felling. Listen to your machine; it will tell you when it needs more oil, a sharper chain, or a simple rest.
Stay safe, keep your equipment clean, and always respect the power of the forest. With the right preparation and a reliable saw, you can tackle any land management project with ease. Now, grab your gear and get out there—nature is waiting for your next move!
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