Almost all chainsaws are similar when it comes to adjusting the carburetor. It can be tricky to master the process but it’s also necessary if you want your chainsaw to run without stalling.
Luckily, there’s an easy and efficient method of adjusting the carburetor on your Poulan Chainsaw.
You need to reset the carburetor adjustment by turning the L and H screws 1 ½ from the closed position. Then, you will have to adjust the L screw until the chain isn’t spinning anymore at idle speed. The throttle has to be responsive at this point. After that, you need to adjust the H screw according to the chainsaw’s maximum RPM.
This requires a more elaborate approach. Let’s take a look at the detailed tutorial.
Poulan Chainsaw Carburetor Adjustment Screws
Adjusting the carburetor includes turning three screws, namely the high-speed screw, the low-speed screw, and the idle screw. They are labeled with H, L, and T, respectively, on the chainsaw cover.
How to Adjust the Carburetor on a Poulan Chainsaw
Before jumping into the adjustment, you have to make sure that the air filter is clean and the spark plug is working properly. Also, a proper fuel mixture is essential. Check my article on Poulan chainsaw fuel mix for more details.
Once you are certain that everything is in place, you can get to the adjustment. Make sure that you have the right tool at hand.
Step 1: Turn the H and L Screws
The H screw stands for high speed, and the L screw stands for low speed. The first step is to turn them clockwise until they stop by using the adjustment tool. This is the closed position for the screws.
Now, turn both screws anticlockwise for 1 ½ turns. This is the baseline position for the H and L screws. You can go from here.
Step 2: Adjust the Low-Speed Screw
Now, use the tool again to turn and adjust the L screw. The chain will stop spinning at the optimal position of the screw, but the throttle will remain responsive.
Step 3: Adjust the High-Speed Screw
This is where you have to be careful. You can adjust the high-speed screw even when it exceeds the maximum RPM of the engine. However, doing that will damage the engine. So, use a tachometer to check the RPM while adjusting the H screw.
Reach the maximum RPM or get as close as possible with the H screw. The maximum RPM of the engine varies, depending on the model you have. So, the best thing is to check the user manual before adjusting it.
Step 4: Adjust the Idle Screw
The idle screw will be labeled T on your chainsaw. Adjust the idle screw until the chain isn’t spinning anymore. This isn’t a mandatory step for all chainsaws. But it’s important to ensure that the idle screw is in the right place.
If it’s set higher than required, the chain will keep moving. On the contrary, if it’s set too low, the chainsaw will not get enough power and will stop.
You can also use the method described in this video for adjusting the carburetor if you want.
Why Proper Carburetor Adjustment Is Important
Improper carburetor adjustment can lead to several issues. For instance, if your chainsaw struggles to turn on or stalls before picking up speed, it can be caused by improper carburetor adjustment.
While too much power can cause stress to the engine and damage it permanently, too little power can cause trouble when you’re operating the chainsaw.
By adjusting the carburetor the right way, you can make the best out of your chainsaw. You will feel efficient when starting the chainsaw, and it will turn back to its full speed from idle without wasting any time.
Poulan Chainsaw Carburetor Adjustment Tool
Two tools are mandatory to have if you want the best results while adjusting your carburetor. Get an adjustment tool and a tachometer.
The adjustment tool will turn the screws without any issues, while the tachometer will help prevent exceeding maximum RPM. If you don’t already have these tools, here are some recommendations you can look at:
| Product | Features |
| Hipa Pack-of-14 Carburetor Adjustment Tool | Diverse compatibility.
Squared handle & Cleaning kit included. |
| REED Instruments Compact Tachometer | Fast and accurate.
Laser pointer & Auto shut off. |
Some Things to Remember
- Setting the H screw higher can be tempting. Nonetheless, it can be dangerous when you cross the maximum RPM. So make sure not to cross that.
- Maximum RPM can be different for each model. Always check the user manual to be certain.
- Use the proper tools if you want your carburetor adjustment to be precise.
- If the air filter isn’t clean or the fuel mix isn’t appropriate, the chainsaw may struggle to run, even with proper carburetor adjustment.
- Don’t forget your earmuffs when dealing with your chainsaw.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the operating RPM of a Poulan chainsaw?
The RPM at idle can range somewhere between 2800 and 3400, whereas at full throttle, it can be somewhere between 12000 and 12500. The RPM varies depending on the model. So, you can only be certain by checking the user manual.
Why does my Poulan chainsaw dies when I give it gas?
One common reason behind this issue is a clogged carburetor. With time, the fuel mixture leaves a residue that can cause the carburetor to clog, which causes the chainsaw to die as you give it gas.
What tool is needed for adjusting the Poulan chainsaw carburetor?
The carburetor screws usually require a flat-headed screwdriver. You should also keep a tachometer nearby to make sure that the RPM is within the safe limit.
Wrap Up
Not knowing the proper way of carburetor adjustment Poulan chainsaw can become a hassle when you are continuously using the chainsaw.
Even though the chainsaw comes adjusted, the settings can slip with time. If you know how to adjust the carburetor, you can perfect it over time so that you can do it only by hearing the engine.
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