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.

SNever 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.

SBegin and continue cutting at full speed. If the chain is moving at a slower speed,

there is greater chance of kickback occur- ring.

SCut one log at a time.

SUse extreme caution when re-entering a

previous cut.

SDo 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.

SUse 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

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.

SStandwith 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.

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Poulan S1634 LE, S1838 LE instruction manual Reduce the Chance of Kickback, Maintain Control, Kickback Safety Features

S1634 LE, S1838 LE specifications

Poulan has long been recognized as a reliable name in the outdoor power equipment industry, and their chainsaws, particularly the Poulan S1634 LE and S1838 LE models, are prime examples of this reputation.

The Poulan S1634 LE is designed for homeowners seeking a lightweight and efficient chainsaw for various cutting tasks. With a 16-inch cutting bar, it is well-suited for trimming branches, tackling small to medium-sized trees, and firewood preparation. The chainsaw is powered by a 33cc 2-cycle engine that provides ample power while remaining easy to handle. One of the standout features of the S1634 LE is its lightweight construction, weighing in at just over 10 pounds, allowing for comfortable maneuverability, especially during extended use.

The S1838 LE model takes a step up in terms of power and capability. With an 18-inch cutting bar and a more robust 42cc engine, this chainsaw can handle larger tasks with ease. The increased bar length allows users to cut through thicker trees and larger branches without excessive effort. Like the S1634 LE, the S1838 LE is designed with user comfort in mind, incorporating features such as an anti-vibration system that reduces user fatigue and a cushioned handle for a secure grip.

Both models come equipped with reliable safety features, including a chain brake that engages automatically in the event of kickback, providing additional peace of mind during operation. The easy-access air filter and tool-free chain tensioning system simplify maintenance and enhance overall usability, allowing users to keep their equipment in optimal condition with minimal hassle.

Furthermore, both chainsaws feature Poulan's reliable start technology, which utilizes a primer bulb and choke for quicker starts, minimizing downtime. The fuel-efficient engines of both models also help to reduce running costs, making them an economical choice for homeowners and occasional users.

In summary, the Poulan S1634 LE and S1838 LE chainsaws are excellent choices for anyone looking for a dependable, user-friendly chainsaw for various cutting tasks. With powerful engines, ergonomic designs, and essential safety features, these models deliver the performance and reliability that Poulan is known for, making them suitable for both novice and experienced users alike. Whether for yard maintenance or occasional lumberjack tasks, these chainsaws provide an impressive blend of power, efficiency, and user comfort.